In the next few months, india will face an election. However, experts say the polls this year is unlikely to spook investors. Not too long ago, india was famously grouped as part of morgan stanley's "fragile five" economies. Ten years later, india is investors favourite. Take a look at this report to understand the nuances of india's rise as the fastest-growing major economy.

Pollnomics: Elections in India this year are unlikely to spook investors

<p>India's former health minister Harsh Vardhan on Sunday (March 3) announced his decision to quit politics. A doctor by profession, Vardhan said&nbsp;his clinic awaits his return.</p>

<p>The development comes after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday (Mar 2) announced its first list of 195 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.</p>

<p>The ruling party dropped four sitting MPs - Harsh Vardhan, Parvesh Verma, Ramesh Bidhuri and Meenakshi Lekhi in Delhi, choosing new faces.</p>

<p>In a long farewell message that he shared on his official X handle, Vardhan said that he would go back to his "roots" and continue making efforts "against tobacco and substance abuse, against climate change and teaching simple and sustainable lifestyles."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">After over thirty years of a glorious electoral career, during which I won all the five assembly and two parliamentary elections that I fought with exemplary margins, and held a multitude of prestigious positions in the party organisation and the governments at the state and…</p>
— Dr Harsh Vardhan (@drharshvardhan) <a href="https://twitter.com/drharshvardhan/status/1764196695426974120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"After over thirty years of a glorious electoral career, during which I won all the five assembly and two parliamentary elections that I fought with exemplary margins, and held a multitude of prestigious positions in the party organisation and the governments at the state and centre I finally bow out to return to my roots," he said.</p>

<p>"Service to mankind was my motto when I joined MBBS in GSVM Medical College, Kanpur fifty years back with a desire to help the poor and needy. A swayamsewak at heart, I have always been an ardent admirer of Deen Dayal Upadhyay ji's Antodaya philosophy of striving to serve the last man in the queue. It was at the insistence of the then RSS leadership that I jumped into the electoral fray. They could convince me only because for me politics meant opportunity to fight our three main enemies - poverty, disease and ignorance," he added.</p>

<p>The former minister's post added: "Without remorse, I must say that it has been a marvelous innings during which my passion to serve the common man was quenched. I served as Delhi Health Minister as well as twice Union Health Minister, a subject close to my heart. I had the rare opportunity bestowed upon me to be able to first work towards creating a Polio free Bharat and then to take care of the health of millions of our countrymen grappling with the dreaded COVID-19 during its first and second phases".</p>

<p>"In the long history of mankind, only a few have been granted the privilege to defend their people in hours of gravest danger! And I can proudly claim that I didn't shirk responsibility, but welcomed it. My gratitude to Ma Bharati, my reverence to my fellow citizens and my obeisance to the values enshrined in our Constitution. And yes, that was the biggest privilege that Bhagwan Shri Ram bestowed upon me, the privilege of being able to save human lives !!,"&nbsp;Harsh Vardhan said.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: BJP finalises its first 195 candidates from 16 states for Lok Sabha Polls 2024 | BJP Candidate List</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I would like to thank all my party karyakartas, my fans and supporters amongst the common citizens as well as my party leaders .. all of whom have contributed to this remarkable journey spanning over three decades," he wrote.</p>

<p>"I must acknowledge that I consider it a great privilege to have worked closely with the most dynamic Prime Minister in India's history, Shri Narendra Modi ji. The country wishes him a heroic return to power again."</p>

<p>"I shall continue to pursue my work against tobacco and substance abuse, against climate change and teaching simple and sustainable lifestyles. A big shout out for all those who stood by me like a rock while I clocked many firsts and led a fulfilled political life," he wrote.</p>

<p>"I move on, I really can't wait. I have promises to keep .. and miles to go before I sleep !! I have a dream .. and I know your blessings shall always remain with me. My ENT clinic at Krishna Nagar too awaits my return," he said. &nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2024-bjp-releases-first-list-of-195-candidates-pm-modi-to-contest-from-varanasi-695970">Also read:&nbsp;Lok Sabha polls 2024: BJP releases first list of 195 candidates, PM Modi to contest from Varanasi</a><br />
<br />
The announcement soon drew appreciation from a bevy of political leaders and Twitterati who praised the popular leader for gracefully retiring from politics and for his dedication to serving humanity.</p>

<h2><strong>Jayant Sinha, Gautam Gambhir request BJP to relieve them from political duties</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, BJP leader Jayant Sinha and former World Cup winner Gautam Gambhir requested the party to relieve them from political duties.</p>

<p>Sinha, stating that he wished to focus on efforts to combat climate change, requested party president JP Nadda to relieve him of "direct electoral duties".</p>

<p>Taking to his official social media handle he wrote, "I have requested Hon'ble Party President Shri @JPNadda ji to relieve me of my direct electoral duties so that I can focus my efforts on combating global climate change in Bharat and around the world. Of course, I will continue to work with the party on economic and governance issues. I have had the privilege of serving the people of Bharat and Hazaribagh for the past 10 years."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I have requested Hon’ble Party President Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/JPNadda?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JPNadda</a> ji to relieve me of my direct electoral duties so that I can focus my efforts on combating global climate change in Bharat and around the world. Of course, I will continue to work with the party on economic and governance…</p>
— Jayant Sinha (@jayantsinha) <a href="https://twitter.com/jayantsinha/status/1763854032861327747?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gambhir stated that he wanted to focus on his upcoming cricket commitments.</p>

<p>“I have requested Hon’ble Party President @JPNadda ji to relieve me of my political duties so that I can focus on my upcoming cricket commitments. I sincerely thank Hon’ble PM @narendramodi ji and Hon’ble HM @AmitShah ji for giving me the opportunity to serve the people. Jai Hind!,” Gambhir wrote on his official X handle. &nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I have requested Hon’ble Party President <a href="https://twitter.com/JPNadda?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JPNadda</a> ji to relieve me of my political duties so that I can focus on my upcoming cricket commitments. I sincerely thank Hon’ble PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji and Hon’ble HM <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmitShah</a> ji for giving me the opportunity to serve the people. Jai Hind!</p>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1763785102268772777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some reports say that both the MPs were not very popular in their respective constituencies and the party had made it clear that the MPs who did not perform as per expectations would not be included in the list this time.</p>

<p>Which is why the move seems like a dignified exit for the leaders, the reports added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's former health minister Harsh Vardhan on Sunday (March 3) announced his decision to quit politics. A doctor by profession, Vardhan said his clinic awaits his return.

India's former health minister Harsh Vardhan on Sunday (March 3) announced his decision to quit politics. A doctor by profession, Vardhan said his clinic awaits his return. The development comes after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday (Mar 2) announced its first list of 195 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The ruling party dropped four sitting MPs - Harsh Vardhan, Parvesh Verma, Ramesh Bidhuri and Meenakshi Lekhi in Delhi, choosing new faces. In a long farewell message that he shared on his official X handle, Vardhan said that he would go back to his "roots" and continue making efforts "against tobacco and substance abuse, against climate change and teaching simple and sustainable lifestyles." After over thirty years of a glorious electoral career, during which I won all the five assembly and two parliamentary elections that I fought with exemplary margins, and held a multitude of prestigious positions in the party organisation and the governments at the state and… — Dr Harsh Vardhan (@drharshvardhan) March 3, 2024 × "After over thirty years of a glorious electoral career, during which I won all the five assembly and two parliamentary elections that I fought with exemplary margins, and held a multitude of prestigious positions in the party organisation and the governments at the state and centre I finally bow out to return to my roots," he said. "Service to mankind was my motto when I joined MBBS in GSVM Medical College, Kanpur fifty years back with a desire to help the poor and needy. A swayamsewak at heart, I have always been an ardent admirer of Deen Dayal Upadhyay ji's Antodaya philosophy of striving to serve the last man in the queue. It was at the insistence of the then RSS leadership that I jumped into the electoral fray. They could convince me only because for me politics meant opportunity to fight our three main enemies - poverty, disease and ignorance," he added. The former minister's post added: "Without remorse, I must say that it has been a marvelous innings during which my passion to serve the common man was quenched. I served as Delhi Health Minister as well as twice Union Health Minister, a subject close to my heart. I had the rare opportunity bestowed upon me to be able to first work towards creating a Polio free Bharat and then to take care of the health of millions of our countrymen grappling with the dreaded COVID-19 during its first and second phases". "In the long history of mankind, only a few have been granted the privilege to defend their people in hours of gravest danger! And I can proudly claim that I didn't shirk responsibility, but welcomed it. My gratitude to Ma Bharati, my reverence to my fellow citizens and my obeisance to the values enshrined in our Constitution. And yes, that was the biggest privilege that Bhagwan Shri Ram bestowed upon me, the privilege of being able to save human lives !!," Harsh Vardhan said. Watch: BJP finalises its first 195 candidates from 16 states for Lok Sabha Polls 2024 | BJP Candidate List × "I would like to thank all my party karyakartas, my fans and supporters amongst the common citizens as well as my party leaders .. all of whom have contributed to this remarkable journey spanning over three decades," he wrote. "I must acknowledge that I consider it a great privilege to have worked closely with the most dynamic Prime Minister in India's history, Shri Narendra Modi ji. The country wishes him a heroic return to power again." "I shall continue to pursue my work against tobacco and substance abuse, against climate change and teaching simple and sustainable lifestyles. A big shout out for all those who stood by me like a rock while I clocked many firsts and led a fulfilled political life," he wrote. "I move on, I really can't wait. I have promises to keep .. and miles to go before I sleep !! I have a dream .. and I know your blessings shall always remain with me. My ENT clinic at Krishna Nagar too awaits my return," he said. Also read: Lok Sabha polls 2024: BJP releases first list of 195 candidates, PM Modi to contest from Varanasi The announcement soon drew appreciation from a bevy of political leaders and Twitterati who praised the popular leader for gracefully retiring from politics and for his dedication to serving humanity. Jayant Sinha, Gautam Gambhir request BJP to relieve them from political duties Earlier, BJP leader Jayant Sinha and former World Cup winner Gautam Gambhir requested the party to relieve them from political duties. Sinha, stating that he wished to focus on efforts to combat climate change, requested party president JP Nadda to relieve him of "direct electoral duties". Taking to his official social media handle he wrote, "I have requested Hon'ble Party President Shri @JPNadda ji to relieve me of my direct electoral duties so that I can focus my efforts on combating global climate change in Bharat and around the world. Of course, I will continue to work with the party on economic and governance issues. I have had the privilege of serving the people of Bharat and Hazaribagh for the past 10 years." I have requested Hon’ble Party President Shri @JPNadda ji to relieve me of my direct electoral duties so that I can focus my efforts on combating global climate change in Bharat and around the world. Of course, I will continue to work with the party on economic and governance… — Jayant Sinha (@jayantsinha) March 2, 2024 × Gambhir stated that he wanted to focus on his upcoming cricket commitments. “I have requested Hon’ble Party President @JPNadda ji to relieve me of my political duties so that I can focus on my upcoming cricket commitments. I sincerely thank Hon’ble PM @narendramodi ji and Hon’ble HM @AmitShah ji for giving me the opportunity to serve the people. Jai Hind!,” Gambhir wrote on his official X handle. I have requested Hon’ble Party President @JPNadda ji to relieve me of my political duties so that I can focus on my upcoming cricket commitments. I sincerely thank Hon’ble PM @narendramodi ji and Hon’ble HM @AmitShah ji for giving me the opportunity to serve the people. Jai Hind! — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) March 2, 2024 × Some reports say that both the MPs were not very popular in their respective constituencies and the party had made it clear that the MPs who did not perform as per expectations would not be included in the list this time. Which is why the move seems like a dignified exit for the leaders, the reports added. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls 2024: Former health minister Harsh Vardhan quits politics, says ‘my clinic awaits my return’

<p>India said that the UN Human Rights body's 'concerns' about the country's&nbsp;Lok Sabha Elections 2024 later this summer were&nbsp;'unwarranted'. India's response came during the general debate on the oral update by the UN Human Rights agency's&nbsp;High Commissioner&nbsp;Volker Türk.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking at the&nbsp;55th session of the Human Rights Council, Türk said that India's general elections will be "unique in scale" but added that he was&nbsp;"concerned by increasing restrictions on the civic space – with human rights defenders, journalists and perceived critics targeted – as well as by hate speech and discrimination against minorities, especially Muslims".&nbsp;</p>

<p>India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Arindam Bagchi, said that Türk's concerns about India's elections&nbsp;are "unwarranted and do not reflect the reality of the largest democracy in the world."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-foreign-ministry-spokesperson-arindam-bagchi-appointed-next-indian-envoy-to-un-in-geneva-647673">India's foreign ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi appointed as country's next envoy to UN in Geneva</a></strong></p>

<p>"In any democracy, argumentation is natural. It is imperative that those in positions of authority do not allow their judgement to be clouded by propaganda," Bagchi added.</p>

<p>Referring to the nature of India's democratic polity, Bagchi said that the country's constitutional values are backed by&nbsp;"fiercely independent institutions, including a robust judiciary, that aim to protect the rights of all."</p>

<p>"Our electoral process has been characterised by a high degree of people’s participation and full faith in the electoral mandate by all. In fact, we are privileged that many across the world seek to learn from our experience and aspire to emulate it," Bagchi added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Unravelling performance of Indian economy before and after polls</strong></p>

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<p>In the past years, the effectiveness of India's Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) for speedy voting process has garnered accolades across the world.</p>

<p>"We have no doubt that as in numerous occasions in the past, the Indian people will freely exercise their vote to choose a government that they believe can best give voice and flight to their aspirations," Bagchi said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India's Statement in today's General Debate at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HRC55?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HRC55</a> <a href="https://t.co/SjrXikVAbB">pic.twitter.com/SjrXikVAbB</a></p>
— India at UN, Geneva (@IndiaUNGeneva) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaUNGeneva/status/1764633518649303504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third term in a row during the upcoming General Elections. His Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance is up against the Congress-party-led Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance. (I.N.D.I.A).&nbsp;</p>


India said that the UN Human Rights body's 'concerns' about the country's Lok Sabha Elections 2024 later this summer were 'unwarranted'. India's response came during the general debate on the oral update by the UN Human Rights agency's High Commissioner Volker Türk.

India said that the UN Human Rights body's 'concerns' about the country's Lok Sabha Elections 2024 later this summer were 'unwarranted'. India's response came during the general debate on the oral update by the UN Human Rights agency's High Commissioner Volker Türk. Speaking at the 55th session of the Human Rights Council, Türk said that India's general elections will be "unique in scale" but added that he was "concerned by increasing restrictions on the civic space – with human rights defenders, journalists and perceived critics targeted – as well as by hate speech and discrimination against minorities, especially Muslims". India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Arindam Bagchi, said that Türk's concerns about India's elections are "unwarranted and do not reflect the reality of the largest democracy in the world." Also read | India's foreign ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi appointed as country's next envoy to UN in Geneva "In any democracy, argumentation is natural. It is imperative that those in positions of authority do not allow their judgement to be clouded by propaganda," Bagchi added. Referring to the nature of India's democratic polity, Bagchi said that the country's constitutional values are backed by "fiercely independent institutions, including a robust judiciary, that aim to protect the rights of all." "Our electoral process has been characterised by a high degree of people’s participation and full faith in the electoral mandate by all. In fact, we are privileged that many across the world seek to learn from our experience and aspire to emulate it," Bagchi added. Also watch | Unravelling performance of Indian economy before and after polls × In the past years, the effectiveness of India's Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) for speedy voting process has garnered accolades across the world. "We have no doubt that as in numerous occasions in the past, the Indian people will freely exercise their vote to choose a government that they believe can best give voice and flight to their aspirations," Bagchi said. India's Statement in today's General Debate at #HRC55 pic.twitter.com/SjrXikVAbB — India at UN, Geneva (@IndiaUNGeneva) March 4, 2024 × India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third term in a row during the upcoming General Elections. His Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance is up against the Congress-party-led Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance. (I.N.D.I.A).

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: India dismisses UN agency's 'unwarranted' concerns

In India's race to power day after the Bhartiya Janata Party named Pawan Singh as the contestant from Asansol soul for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, the Bhojpuri singer has said that he would not be contesting the elections. Another BJP leader Dr Harsh Vardhan quits politics, says bowing out to return to his (medical) roots. Watch to know more!

Lok Sabha Polls 2024 | Former Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan bows out of active politics

In India's race to power day after the Bhartiya Janata Party named Pawan Singh as the contestant from Asansol soul for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, the Bhojpuri singer has said that he would not be contesting the elections. Watch to know more!

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: BJP's Asansol candidate Pawan Singh opts out of polls

<p><strong>Lok Sabha Elections 2024</strong>: As India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party released its first list of candidates for the upcoming General Elections on Saturday (Feb 2), the limelight first went to the stars of regional cinema who have been named BJP candidates. The BJP has&nbsp;placed the stars of Bhojpuri entertainment world, mostly based out of Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh, to potentially take on the political titans of our times.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-bjps-first-list-puts-focus-on-continuity-winnability-top-points-696077">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: BJP's first list puts focus on continuity, winnability | Top points</a></strong></p>

<p>Take a look at Bhojpuri stars named as BJP candidates in the party's first list.</p>

<h2><strong>Pawan Singh</strong></h2>

<p>Bhojpuri singer and actor Pawan Singh, popular for his hit song "Lollipop Lagelu' was named as the candidate from the Asansol constituency in West Bengal. But on Sunday (March 3), Singh wrote on social media that he would not be able to contest the elections from Asansol.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I express my heartfelt gratitude to the top leadership of Bharatiya Janata Party. The party trusted me and declared me as the candidate from Asansol but due to some reason I will not be able to contest the elections from Asansol…," he wrote on X, formerly Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The constituency is currently represented by Shatrughan Sinha, a veteran Bollywood actor who switched from the BJP to TMC.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/india-news/business-economy/lok-sabha-elections-2024-standout-entrants-in-bjp-first-list-1709395959870">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Standout Entrants in BJP's First List</a></strong></p>

<p>Asansol was won by singer Babul Supriyo on a BJP ticket&nbsp;&nbsp;in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, defeating the Trinamool Congress' Moon Moon Sen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Supriyo resigned from the seat and joined the Trinamool Congress.</p>

<p>Subsequently in 2022, Shatrughan Sinha secured a win in the Lok Sabha by-elections from Asansol.</p>

<h2><strong>Dinesh Lal Yadav <em>a.k.a.</em> 'Nirahua'</strong></h2>

<p>The Bhojpuri star has been named BJP candidate from Azamgarh, a stronghold of the Samajwadi Party and previously represented by late socialist leader Mulayam Singh Yadav.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the 2022 by-elections, Nirahua defeated Samajwadi Party's Dharmendra Yadav with a margin of about 9,000 votes.</p>

<p><b>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/india-news/business-economy/lok-sabha-elections-2024-emerging-battles-reeling-scions-1709398368978">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Emerging Battles, Reeling Scions</a></b></p>

<p>Notably, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav won from Azamgarh in 2019 but relinquished the seat after being elected as an MLA from Karhal constituency in the 2022 Uttar Pradesh legislative assembly elections.</p>

<h2><strong>Ravindra Shyamnarayan Shukla <em>a.k.a.</em> Ravi Kishan</strong></h2>

<p>Bhojpuri star Ravindra Shyamnarayan Shukla, popularly known as Ravi Kishan, has been named the BJP candidate from Gorakhpur. The constituency was represented by the current Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath until he was chosen as state CM in 2017.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bjp-finalises-its-first-195-candidates-from-16-states-for-lok-sabha-polls-2024-bjp-candidate-list-696003">BJP finalises its first 195 candidates from 16 states for Lok Sabha Polls 2024 | BJP Candidate List</a></strong></p>

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<p>"I want to thank the top leadership wholeheartedly... The organization gave me a second chance from the hottest seat after Kashi. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the entire organization and Prime Minister Modi. I will maintain this trust...BJP will win 400 seats and Gorakhpur seat will create history," Ravi Kishan said.</p>

<h2><strong>Manoj Tiwari</strong></h2>

<p>The two-time serving MP from Northeast&nbsp;Delhi will be contesting from the same constituency for the third time in a row on a BJP ticket.</p>

<p>Tiwari, a former president of Delhi BJP, secured victory in the Northeast&nbsp;Delhi constituency in 2019, by defeating former Delhi chief minister and Congress candidate Sheila Dixit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hailing from Bihar, Tiwari is widely recognised as a prominent face of the BJP in Delhi.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third consecutive term&nbsp;in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. With 195 candidates from across 16 states announced on Saturday (Mar 2), the BJP continues its attempts to strike a balance between the old guard and new faces.&nbsp;</p>


Lok Sabha Elections 2024: As India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party released its first list of candidates for the upcoming General Elections on Saturday (Feb 2), the limelight first went to the stars of regional cinema who have been named BJP candidates.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: As India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party released its first list of candidates for the upcoming General Elections on Saturday (Feb 2), the limelight first went to the stars of regional cinema who have been named BJP candidates. The BJP has placed the stars of Bhojpuri entertainment world, mostly based out of Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh, to potentially take on the political titans of our times. Also read | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: BJP's first list puts focus on continuity, winnability | Top points Take a look at Bhojpuri stars named as BJP candidates in the party's first list. Pawan Singh Bhojpuri singer and actor Pawan Singh, popular for his hit song "Lollipop Lagelu' was named as the candidate from the Asansol constituency in West Bengal. But on Sunday (March 3), Singh wrote on social media that he would not be able to contest the elections from Asansol. "I express my heartfelt gratitude to the top leadership of Bharatiya Janata Party. The party trusted me and declared me as the candidate from Asansol but due to some reason I will not be able to contest the elections from Asansol…," he wrote on X, formerly Twitter. The constituency is currently represented by Shatrughan Sinha, a veteran Bollywood actor who switched from the BJP to TMC. Also read | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Standout Entrants in BJP's First List Asansol was won by singer Babul Supriyo on a BJP ticket in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, defeating the Trinamool Congress' Moon Moon Sen. Supriyo resigned from the seat and joined the Trinamool Congress. Subsequently in 2022, Shatrughan Sinha secured a win in the Lok Sabha by-elections from Asansol. Dinesh Lal Yadav a.k.a. 'Nirahua' The Bhojpuri star has been named BJP candidate from Azamgarh, a stronghold of the Samajwadi Party and previously represented by late socialist leader Mulayam Singh Yadav. In the 2022 by-elections, Nirahua defeated Samajwadi Party's Dharmendra Yadav with a margin of about 9,000 votes. Also read | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Emerging Battles, Reeling Scions Notably, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav won from Azamgarh in 2019 but relinquished the seat after being elected as an MLA from Karhal constituency in the 2022 Uttar Pradesh legislative assembly elections. Ravindra Shyamnarayan Shukla a.k.a. Ravi Kishan Bhojpuri star Ravindra Shyamnarayan Shukla, popularly known as Ravi Kishan, has been named the BJP candidate from Gorakhpur. The constituency was represented by the current Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath until he was chosen as state CM in 2017. Also watch | BJP finalises its first 195 candidates from 16 states for Lok Sabha Polls 2024 | BJP Candidate List × "I want to thank the top leadership wholeheartedly... The organization gave me a second chance from the hottest seat after Kashi. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the entire organization and Prime Minister Modi. I will maintain this trust...BJP will win 400 seats and Gorakhpur seat will create history," Ravi Kishan said. Manoj Tiwari The two-time serving MP from Northeast Delhi will be contesting from the same constituency for the third time in a row on a BJP ticket. Tiwari, a former president of Delhi BJP, secured victory in the Northeast Delhi constituency in 2019, by defeating former Delhi chief minister and Congress candidate Sheila Dixit. Hailing from Bihar, Tiwari is widely recognised as a prominent face of the BJP in Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third consecutive term in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. With 195 candidates from across 16 states announced on Saturday (Mar 2), the BJP continues its attempts to strike a balance between the old guard and new faces.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: BJP bets big on Bhojpuri stars but Pawan Singh steps back

<p><strong>Lok Sabha Elections 2024:&nbsp;</strong>India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party 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.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Here are the top takeaways from the first list announced by the BJP:</p>

<p><b>Former chief ministers named as BJP candidates:&nbsp;</b>The BJP has named former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, former Assam chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal, and former Tripura chief minister Biplab Kumar Deb as candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Focus on pushing&nbsp;new generation of leaders:&nbsp;</strong>The BJP has named Bansuri Swaraj, the lawyer and daughter of late former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj, as Lok Sabha candidate from the New Delhi constituency. From Kerala, former defence minister and Congress leader A K&nbsp;Antony's son Anil K&nbsp;Antony has been named the BJP candidate from Pathanamthitta.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Winnability a key factor:&nbsp;</strong>The state of Kerala has been an Opposition fortress with the ruling BJP failing to make much inroads. The BJP's first list shows the saffron party's radical attempts to expand its footprint in the state. The union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar has been named BJP candidate from Thiruvananthapuram, currently represented in parliament by senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor. National Award-winning actor Suresh Gopi has been named the BJP candidate from Thrissur.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>Representation on caste lines: </b>With a focus on&nbsp;social justice on caste and gender lines, the list includes 29 per cent Other Backward Castes (57 candidates), 14 per cent Scheduled Castes (27 candidates), and 9 per cent Scheduled Tribes (18 candidates).</p>

<p><strong>BJP tackles Delhi dilemma with new candidates:&nbsp;</strong>The party has retained only Manoj Tiwari from northeast&nbsp;Delhi in its first list of five candidates from Delhi, replacing former union health minister Dr Harsh Vardhan, Parvesh Verma, Ramesh Bidhuri and serving union minister Meenakshi Lekhi.&nbsp;</p>


Lok Sabha Elections 2024: India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party released its first list of candidates for the upcoming General Elections in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third consecutive term.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party 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. Here are the top takeaways from the first list announced by the BJP: Former chief ministers named as BJP candidates: The BJP has named former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, former Assam chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal, and former Tripura chief minister Biplab Kumar Deb as candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Focus on pushing new generation of leaders: The BJP has named Bansuri Swaraj, the lawyer and daughter of late former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj, as Lok Sabha candidate from the New Delhi constituency. From Kerala, former defence minister and Congress leader A K Antony's son Anil K Antony has been named the BJP candidate from Pathanamthitta. Winnability a key factor: The state of Kerala has been an Opposition fortress with the ruling BJP failing to make much inroads. The BJP's first list shows the saffron party's radical attempts to expand its footprint in the state. The union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar has been named BJP candidate from Thiruvananthapuram, currently represented in parliament by senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor. National Award-winning actor Suresh Gopi has been named the BJP candidate from Thrissur. Representation on caste lines: With a focus on social justice on caste and gender lines, the list includes 29 per cent Other Backward Castes (57 candidates), 14 per cent Scheduled Castes (27 candidates), and 9 per cent Scheduled Tribes (18 candidates). BJP tackles Delhi dilemma with new candidates: The party has retained only Manoj Tiwari from northeast Delhi in its first list of five candidates from Delhi, replacing former union health minister Dr Harsh Vardhan, Parvesh Verma, Ramesh Bidhuri and serving union minister Meenakshi Lekhi.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: BJP's first list puts focus on continuity, winnability | Top points

<p>In a significant development in Delhi's political landscape, Bansuri Swaraj, a prominent Supreme Court advocate and daughter of the late Sushma Swaraj, has been named the candidate from New Delhi Lok Sabha constituency for the upcoming elections. Set to contest from the New Delhi constituency, Bansuri's journey into politics marks a noteworthy transition from her legal career to the realm of governance.</p>

<p>Bansuri Swaraj, aged 40, boasts an illustrious legal background, having served as the additional advocate general for Haryana and maintained a thriving private practice since 2007. Educated at prestigious institutions such as Oxford University for Law and the University of Warwick, England, where she pursued English literature, Bansuri combines academic prowess with practical legal expertise.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2024-bjp-releases-first-list-of-195-candidates-pm-modi-to-contest-from-varanasi-695970">Also read |&nbsp;Lok Sabha polls 2024: BJP releases first list of 195 candidates, PM Modi to contest from Varanasi</a></p>

<h2><strong>The BJP's endorsement</strong></h2>

<p>Bansuri's political trajectory gained momentum when she was appointed as the co-convener of the legal cell of the BJP in Delhi in 2023.</p>

<p>Her nomination as a candidate for the Lok Sabha elections sheds light on&nbsp;the party's confidence in her leadership and advocacy skills.</p>

<p>Notably, Bansuri's name featured prominently in the BJP's initial list of candidates, alongside names like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior Union ministers.</p>

<p>Beyond her legal acumen, Bansuri has emerged as a vocal critic of the Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP government in Delhi. Her outspoken stance against Kejriwal's policies and governance style has garnered attention within political circles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On her mother Sushma Swaraj, Bansuri said she is her inspiration. "In my previous life, I must have done some good karma for Sushma Swaraj to be my mother. She is my inspiration and my guiding light. As of now, my responsibility is that of a con-convener of the BJP Delhi Legal Cell and I shall be focusing on discharging this responsibility," Bansuri said in 2023 when she formally entered Indian politics.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;BJP announces first list for Lok Sabha elections, PM Modi to contest from Varanasi</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bjp-announces-first-list-for-lok-sabha-elections-pm-modi-to-contest-from-varanasi-695941/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"I feel grateful. I express gratitude towards PM Modi, Home minister Amit Shah ji, JP Nadda ji and every BJP worker for giving me this opportunity. With the resolution of 'ab ki baar 400 paar', every BJP worker will work to make Narendra Modi the 'Pradhan Sewak' for the third time. I want to thank Sangathan Mahamantri Pawan Rana, Jay Panda, my elder sister Alka Gujjar and every single BJP worker who have bestowed this opportunity on me," Bansuri said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a significant development in Delhi's political landscape, Bansuri Swaraj, a prominent Supreme Court advocate and daughter of the late Sushma Swaraj, has been named the candidate from New Delhi Lok Sabha constituency for the upcoming elections.

In a significant development in Delhi's political landscape, Bansuri Swaraj, a prominent Supreme Court advocate and daughter of the late Sushma Swaraj, has been named the candidate from New Delhi Lok Sabha constituency for the upcoming elections. Set to contest from the New Delhi constituency, Bansuri's journey into politics marks a noteworthy transition from her legal career to the realm of governance. Bansuri Swaraj, aged 40, boasts an illustrious legal background, having served as the additional advocate general for Haryana and maintained a thriving private practice since 2007. Educated at prestigious institutions such as Oxford University for Law and the University of Warwick, England, where she pursued English literature, Bansuri combines academic prowess with practical legal expertise. Also read | Lok Sabha polls 2024: BJP releases first list of 195 candidates, PM Modi to contest from Varanasi The BJP's endorsement Bansuri's political trajectory gained momentum when she was appointed as the co-convener of the legal cell of the BJP in Delhi in 2023. Her nomination as a candidate for the Lok Sabha elections sheds light on the party's confidence in her leadership and advocacy skills. Notably, Bansuri's name featured prominently in the BJP's initial list of candidates, alongside names like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior Union ministers. Beyond her legal acumen, Bansuri has emerged as a vocal critic of the Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP government in Delhi. Her outspoken stance against Kejriwal's policies and governance style has garnered attention within political circles. On her mother Sushma Swaraj, Bansuri said she is her inspiration. "In my previous life, I must have done some good karma for Sushma Swaraj to be my mother. She is my inspiration and my guiding light. As of now, my responsibility is that of a con-convener of the BJP Delhi Legal Cell and I shall be focusing on discharging this responsibility," Bansuri said in 2023 when she formally entered Indian politics. Also watch | BJP announces first list for Lok Sabha elections, PM Modi to contest from Varanasi "I feel grateful. I express gratitude towards PM Modi, Home minister Amit Shah ji, JP Nadda ji and every BJP worker for giving me this opportunity. With the resolution of 'ab ki baar 400 paar', every BJP worker will work to make Narendra Modi the 'Pradhan Sewak' for the third time. I want to thank Sangathan Mahamantri Pawan Rana, Jay Panda, my elder sister Alka Gujjar and every single BJP worker who have bestowed this opportunity on me," Bansuri said. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Bansuri Swaraj? Daughter of Sushma Swaraj set to make her debut in Lok Sabha elections

<p>India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday (March 2) released its first list of 195 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections that are set to take place in the month of May.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi will again contest the polls from Varanasi.</p>

<p>Out of 195 candidates listed by the BJP, 34 are Ministers from the Centre and States, while two are former chief ministers.</p>

<p>While announcing the first list, BJP National General Secretary Vinod Tawde stated, "PM Modi to contest Lok Sabha elections from Varanasi, Union Minister for Law and Justice Kiran Rijiju to contest from Arunachal West, BJP MP Bishnu Pada Ray to contest from Andaman &amp; Nicobar, BJP MP Tapir Gao to contest from Arunachal East, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal to contest from Dibrugarh."</p>

<p>Union Home Minister Amit Shah will contest from Gandhinagar whereas Mansukh Mandaviya will do so from Porbandar.</p>

<p>"The names of 195 candidates have been finalised. The list includes 47 youth candidates, 28 women candidates, 27 Scheduled Caste (SC) candidates, 18 Scheduled Tribes (ST) candidates and 57 OBC/Backward Class candidates. The party has announced the list keeping all communities in focus," said Tawde.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">29 फरवरी, 2024 को प्रधानमंत्री श्री <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> की गरिमामयी उपस्थिति और श्री <a href="https://twitter.com/JPNadda?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JPNadda</a> की अध्यक्षता में आयोजित केंद्रीय चुनाव समिति की बैठक में आगामी लोकसभा चुनाव हेतु 195 लोकसभा सीटों के लिए बीजेपी उम्मीदवार के नामों पर मंजूरी दी गई। (1/4) <a href="https://t.co/Wv8yVYnegK">pic.twitter.com/Wv8yVYnegK</a></p>
— BJP (@BJP4India) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India/status/1763925335186579499?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-elections-nitin-gadkari-serves-legal-notice-to-congress-alleges-interview-twisted-distorted-695743">India politics: Nitin Gadkari serves legal notice to Congress, alleges interview 'twisted, distorted'</a></p>

<h2><strong>Key Points</strong></h2>

<p>- Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar will contest from Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram.</p>

<p>- Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal is set to contest elections from Dibrugarh.</p>

<p>- Kiren Rijiju will be in fray from Arunachal Pradesh</p>

<p>- Former External Affairs minister, late Sushma Swaraj's daughter Bansuri Swaraj&nbsp;is set to make her poll debut&nbsp;and has been fielded from New Delhi.</p>

<p>- Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will again contest elections from Lucknow</p>

<p>- Smriti Irani will contest to retain Amethi, a seat she wrested from Rahul Gandhi.</p>

<p>- Minister of State for Home Affairs Ajay Mishra Teni will contest the polls from Kheri.</p>

<p>- BJP leader Alok Sharma will contest from Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh.</p>

<p>- Former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan will contest from Vidisha.</p>

<p>- Jyotiraditya Scindia will contest from Guna in Madhya Pradesh.</p>

<p>-The list includes&nbsp;candidates from 16 states with 51 names from Uttar Pradesh.</p>

<p>-There were 47 candidates below the age of 50.</p>

<p>- Twenty-eight candidates were women</p>

<p>- Ninety two were from the non-general categories.</p>

<p>- Lok Sabha candidates for 5 Delhi seats were also announced by the party.</p>

<p>- BJP leader Manoj Tiwari will contest from North-East Delhi.</p>

<p>- Bansuri Swaraj from New Delhi.</p>

<p>- Kamaljeet Sehrawat from West Delhi and Ramvir Singh Bidhuri from South Delhi.</p>

<p>- Confederation of All India Traders chief Praveen Khandelwal will contest from Delhi's Chandni Chowk.</p>

<p>- Pragya Singh Thakur has been dropped.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The early announcement of the candidates was made in a bid to give the nominees enough time for the election campaign.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday (March 2) released its first list of 195 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections that are set to take place in the month of May.

India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday (March 2) released its first list of 195 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections that are set to take place in the month of May. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will again contest the polls from Varanasi. Out of 195 candidates listed by the BJP, 34 are Ministers from the Centre and States, while two are former chief ministers. While announcing the first list, BJP National General Secretary Vinod Tawde stated, "PM Modi to contest Lok Sabha elections from Varanasi, Union Minister for Law and Justice Kiran Rijiju to contest from Arunachal West, BJP MP Bishnu Pada Ray to contest from Andaman & Nicobar, BJP MP Tapir Gao to contest from Arunachal East, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal to contest from Dibrugarh." Union Home Minister Amit Shah will contest from Gandhinagar whereas Mansukh Mandaviya will do so from Porbandar. "The names of 195 candidates have been finalised. The list includes 47 youth candidates, 28 women candidates, 27 Scheduled Caste (SC) candidates, 18 Scheduled Tribes (ST) candidates and 57 OBC/Backward Class candidates. The party has announced the list keeping all communities in focus," said Tawde. 29 फरवरी, 2024 को प्रधानमंत्री श्री @narendramodi की गरिमामयी उपस्थिति और श्री @JPNadda की अध्यक्षता में आयोजित केंद्रीय चुनाव समिति की बैठक में आगामी लोकसभा चुनाव हेतु 195 लोकसभा सीटों के लिए बीजेपी उम्मीदवार के नामों पर मंजूरी दी गई। (1/4) pic.twitter.com/Wv8yVYnegK — BJP (@BJP4India) March 2, 2024 × Also read: India politics: Nitin Gadkari serves legal notice to Congress, alleges interview 'twisted, distorted' Key Points - Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar will contest from Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram. - Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal is set to contest elections from Dibrugarh. - Kiren Rijiju will be in fray from Arunachal Pradesh - Former External Affairs minister, late Sushma Swaraj's daughter Bansuri Swaraj is set to make her poll debut and has been fielded from New Delhi. - Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will again contest elections from Lucknow - Smriti Irani will contest to retain Amethi, a seat she wrested from Rahul Gandhi. - Minister of State for Home Affairs Ajay Mishra Teni will contest the polls from Kheri. - BJP leader Alok Sharma will contest from Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh. - Former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan will contest from Vidisha. - Jyotiraditya Scindia will contest from Guna in Madhya Pradesh. -The list includes candidates from 16 states with 51 names from Uttar Pradesh. -There were 47 candidates below the age of 50. - Twenty-eight candidates were women - Ninety two were from the non-general categories. - Lok Sabha candidates for 5 Delhi seats were also announced by the party. - BJP leader Manoj Tiwari will contest from North-East Delhi. - Bansuri Swaraj from New Delhi. - Kamaljeet Sehrawat from West Delhi and Ramvir Singh Bidhuri from South Delhi. - Confederation of All India Traders chief Praveen Khandelwal will contest from Delhi's Chandni Chowk. - Pragya Singh Thakur has been dropped. The early announcement of the candidates was made in a bid to give the nominees enough time for the election campaign. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls 2024: BJP releases first list of 195 candidates, PM Modi to contest from Varanasi

<p>The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has&nbsp;released&nbsp;its first list of 195 candidates for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections, aiming to secure 370 seats on its own, and over 400 for its alliance, the NDA. India's&nbsp;ruling BJP declared that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would once again contest from Varanasi, with other&nbsp;notable names&nbsp;included 34 Union Ministers such as Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, and Smriti Irani.</p>

<h2><strong>Here are the key contenders in BJP's candidate lineup</strong></h2>

<h2>Narendra Modi</h2>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to contest once more from Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. With victories in the constituency in the past two elections, PM Modi eyes a third consecutive triumph.</p>

<h2>Amit Shah</h2>

<p>Union Home Minister Amit Shah, credited with orchestrating BJP's resounding victory in the 2014 polls, will seek re-election from Gandhinagar, Gujarat.</p>

<h2>Rajnath Singh</h2>

<p>Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will again be in the fray from the Lucknow constituency in the upcoming elections.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;BJP announces first list for Lok Sabha elections, PM Modi to contest from Varanasi</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bjp-announces-first-list-for-lok-sabha-elections-pm-modi-to-contest-from-varanasi-695941/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>Smriti Irani</strong></h2>

<p>Following her historic victory over Rahul Gandhi in Amethi in 2019, Smriti Irani has been once again entrusted with this critical constituency in Uttar Pradesh.</p>

<h2><strong>Jyotiraditya Scindia</strong></h2>

<p>Former Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Jyotiraditya Scindia will compete from Guna in Madhya Pradesh, aiming to regain the constituency he lost to the BJP candidate in 2019.</p>

<h2><strong>Shivraj Singh Chouhan</strong></h2>

<p>Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan seems to be&nbsp;poised for a national role, and will contest from Vidisha.</p>

<h2>Kiren Rijiju</h2>

<p>Kiren Rijiju, currently holding the Earth Sciences portfolio, will contest from Arunachal West, having spearheaded significant ministries since BJP's second term in 2019.</p>

<h2>Rajeev Chandrasekhar</h2>

<p>Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar will enter a high-stakes battle in Thiruvananthapuram, aiming to wrest the seat from Congress' Shashi Tharoor.</p>

<h2>Hema Malini</h2>

<p>Renowned actor-politician Hema Malini has been fielded once more from Mathura, seeking to replicate her emphatic victories in the past two elections.</p>

<h2>Bhupender Yadav</h2>

<p>A seasoned BJP leader, Bhupender Yadav,&nbsp;known for his adept handling of challenges, steps into his maiden Lok Sabha election from Alwar, Rajasthan.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-world-cup-winner-and-mp-gautam-gambhir-requests-ruling-bjp-for-release-from-political-duties-695777">Also read |&nbsp;Former World Cup winner and MP Gautam Gambhir requests ruling BJP to relieve him of political duties</a></p>

<p>Despite securing 303 seats in the 2019 polls, the BJP's current representation in the Lok Sabha stands at 290 due to various factors, including recent resignations of some MPs post their victories in assembly polls.</p>

<p>With the Election Commission expected to announce the poll schedule later this month, the Lok Sabha elections are anticipated to take place in April-May, marking a crucial phase in India's democratic process.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has released its first list of 195 candidates for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections, aiming to secure 370 seats on its own, and over 400 for its alliance, the NDA.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has released its first list of 195 candidates for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections, aiming to secure 370 seats on its own, and over 400 for its alliance, the NDA. India's ruling BJP declared that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would once again contest from Varanasi, with other notable names included 34 Union Ministers such as Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, and Smriti Irani. Here are the key contenders in BJP's candidate lineup Narendra Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to contest once more from Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. With victories in the constituency in the past two elections, PM Modi eyes a third consecutive triumph. Amit Shah Union Home Minister Amit Shah, credited with orchestrating BJP's resounding victory in the 2014 polls, will seek re-election from Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Rajnath Singh Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will again be in the fray from the Lucknow constituency in the upcoming elections. Also watch | BJP announces first list for Lok Sabha elections, PM Modi to contest from Varanasi Smriti Irani Following her historic victory over Rahul Gandhi in Amethi in 2019, Smriti Irani has been once again entrusted with this critical constituency in Uttar Pradesh. Jyotiraditya Scindia Former Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Jyotiraditya Scindia will compete from Guna in Madhya Pradesh, aiming to regain the constituency he lost to the BJP candidate in 2019. Shivraj Singh Chouhan Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan seems to be poised for a national role, and will contest from Vidisha. Kiren Rijiju Kiren Rijiju, currently holding the Earth Sciences portfolio, will contest from Arunachal West, having spearheaded significant ministries since BJP's second term in 2019. Rajeev Chandrasekhar Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar will enter a high-stakes battle in Thiruvananthapuram, aiming to wrest the seat from Congress' Shashi Tharoor. Hema Malini Renowned actor-politician Hema Malini has been fielded once more from Mathura, seeking to replicate her emphatic victories in the past two elections. Bhupender Yadav A seasoned BJP leader, Bhupender Yadav, known for his adept handling of challenges, steps into his maiden Lok Sabha election from Alwar, Rajasthan. Also read | Former World Cup winner and MP Gautam Gambhir requests ruling BJP to relieve him of political duties Despite securing 303 seats in the 2019 polls, the BJP's current representation in the Lok Sabha stands at 290 due to various factors, including recent resignations of some MPs post their victories in assembly polls. With the Election Commission expected to announce the poll schedule later this month, the Lok Sabha elections are anticipated to take place in April-May, marking a crucial phase in India's democratic process. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls 2024: BJP heavyweights headline party’s first list of 195 candidates

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar will be contesting the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. The minister of parliamentary Affairs Prahlad Joshi made this announcement while saying that the seats have not been decided yet. It is being speculated that one of them could contest from Karnataka. Watch to know more!

Indian foreign & finance ministers to contest Lok Sabha polls | India General Elections 2024

<p><strong>Lok Sabha Elections 2024:&nbsp;</strong>The Election Commission of India (ECI) issued a stern clarification over the weekend after a message claiming to reveal the schedule of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections went viral. The deceptive WhatsApp message circulated widely across the country and falsely claimed that polling will take place on April 19 and the results will begin to pour in on May 22.</p>

<p>The Election Commission of India said that the message is entirely fraudulent and that no official dates have been announced yet. The Commission traditionally discloses the election schedule through a formal press conference.</p>

<h2><strong>India Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Polling and Result Dates</strong></h2>

<p>The Election Commission of India is expected to unveil the schedule for the Lok Sabha elections after March 13.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, Election Commission teams are actively evaluating the election preparedness of various states, with the assessment expected to conclude by March 13.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-general-elections-2024-opposition-india-bloc-announces-seat-deal-in-delhi-gujarat-693567">India General Elections 2024: Opposition I.N.D.I.A bloc announces seat deal in Delhi, Gujarat</a></strong></p>

<p>ECI officials are engaged in frequent meetings with Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) from different states to proactively address potential challenges before the elections. Key discussions revolve around logistical aspects such as the transportation of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), the deployment of security personnel, and vigilant monitoring of activities along state borders.</p>

<h2>India Elections: Election Commission makes key changes to ensure transparency</h2>

<p>To ensure a smooth electoral process, the Election Commission has directed state governments to transfer officers who have completed three years in a specific location or are posted in their home district. The Commission has also modified its transfer policy, which constitutes ensuring that the officers are not relocated to adjacent districts within the same Parliamentary Constituency to maintain the fairness in voting process.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the months ahead, several states, including Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh, are gearing up for simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly polls.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Will the BJP maintain its seven-seat sweep in Delhi?</strong></p>

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<p>In the elections ahead in the summer, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third term in a row for the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). To counter the NDA, the Opposition parties forged the Indian National Democratic Alliance (I.N.D.I.A.) late last year,&nbsp;replacing the existing bloc called United Progressive Alliance (UPA) led by the Congress party that governed the country for ten years before PM Modi's party was elected to power in 2014.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Lok Sabha Elections 2024: The Election Commission of India (ECI) issued a stern clarification over the weekend after a message claiming to reveal the schedule of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections went viral.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: The Election Commission of India (ECI) issued a stern clarification over the weekend after a message claiming to reveal the schedule of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections went viral. The deceptive WhatsApp message circulated widely across the country and falsely claimed that polling will take place on April 19 and the results will begin to pour in on May 22. The Election Commission of India said that the message is entirely fraudulent and that no official dates have been announced yet. The Commission traditionally discloses the election schedule through a formal press conference. India Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Polling and Result Dates The Election Commission of India is expected to unveil the schedule for the Lok Sabha elections after March 13. Currently, Election Commission teams are actively evaluating the election preparedness of various states, with the assessment expected to conclude by March 13. Also read | India General Elections 2024: Opposition I.N.D.I.A bloc announces seat deal in Delhi, Gujarat ECI officials are engaged in frequent meetings with Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) from different states to proactively address potential challenges before the elections. Key discussions revolve around logistical aspects such as the transportation of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), the deployment of security personnel, and vigilant monitoring of activities along state borders. India Elections: Election Commission makes key changes to ensure transparency To ensure a smooth electoral process, the Election Commission has directed state governments to transfer officers who have completed three years in a specific location or are posted in their home district. The Commission has also modified its transfer policy, which constitutes ensuring that the officers are not relocated to adjacent districts within the same Parliamentary Constituency to maintain the fairness in voting process. In the months ahead, several states, including Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh, are gearing up for simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly polls. Also watch | India Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Will the BJP maintain its seven-seat sweep in Delhi? × In the elections ahead in the summer, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third term in a row for the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). To counter the NDA, the Opposition parties forged the Indian National Democratic Alliance (I.N.D.I.A.) late last year, replacing the existing bloc called United Progressive Alliance (UPA) led by the Congress party that governed the country for ten years before PM Modi's party was elected to power in 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Election Commission of India steps in to thwart 'viral' poll schedule

<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>Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday (Feb 5) issued an advisory ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, asking the political parties not to use children in campaigning "in any form whatsoever", including for distribution of posters and pamphlets or sloganeering. The election commission said in the advisory that it will resort to a "zero tolerance" policy when it comes to the use of children during the electoral process by parties and candidates in any manner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the statement, the poll panel noted that the political leaders and candidates should not use children for campaign activities in any manner, including holding a child in their arms, carrying a child in a vehicle or at rallies.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-public-examinations-prevention-of-unfair-means-bill-2024-introduced-in-lower-house-of-parliament-687088">India: Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024 introduced in lower house of Parliament</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The statement read, "Political Parties have been advised not to use children in election campaigns in any form whatsoever including distribution of posters/pamphlets or to participate in slogan shouting, campaign rallies, election meetings, etc. The Commission has conveyed ‘Zero Tolerance’ towards the use of children in any manner during the electoral process by parties and candidates."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The poll panel added that this prohibition extends to the use of children to create the semblance of a political campaign in any manner including use through poems, songs, spoken words, display of insignia of a political party or candidate, exhibiting ideology of a political party, promoting achievements of a political party or criticising the opponent political parties or candidates.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jharkhand-floor-test-today-champai-govt-confident-of-win-ex-cm-soren-to-cast-vote-687009">India: Jharkhand CM Champai Soren wins crucial floor test with 47 MLAs</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;WION's exclusive interview with Dr&nbsp;V Anantha Nageswaran&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The election commission, however, further mentioned that just the presence of a "child accompanied by their parent or guardian in the proximity of a political leader and who is not involved in any election campaigning activity by the political party, will not be construed as a violation of the guidelines".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The panel said that all political parties and candidates are required to ensure strict compliance with India's Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, as amended by the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Commission has unequivocally directed all election officials and machinery to refrain from involving children in any capacity during election-related work or activities.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday (Feb 5) issued an advisory ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, asking the political parties not to use children in campaigning "in any form whatsoever", including for distribution of posters and pamphlets or sloganeering.

Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday (Feb 5) issued an advisory ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, asking the political parties not to use children in campaigning "in any form whatsoever", including for distribution of posters and pamphlets or sloganeering. The election commission said in the advisory that it will resort to a "zero tolerance" policy when it comes to the use of children during the electoral process by parties and candidates in any manner. In the statement, the poll panel noted that the political leaders and candidates should not use children for campaign activities in any manner, including holding a child in their arms, carrying a child in a vehicle or at rallies. Also read: India: Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024 introduced in lower house of Parliament The statement read, "Political Parties have been advised not to use children in election campaigns in any form whatsoever including distribution of posters/pamphlets or to participate in slogan shouting, campaign rallies, election meetings, etc. The Commission has conveyed ‘Zero Tolerance’ towards the use of children in any manner during the electoral process by parties and candidates." The poll panel added that this prohibition extends to the use of children to create the semblance of a political campaign in any manner including use through poems, songs, spoken words, display of insignia of a political party or candidate, exhibiting ideology of a political party, promoting achievements of a political party or criticising the opponent political parties or candidates. Also read: India: Jharkhand CM Champai Soren wins crucial floor test with 47 MLAs Watch: WION's exclusive interview with Dr V Anantha Nageswaran × The election commission, however, further mentioned that just the presence of a "child accompanied by their parent or guardian in the proximity of a political leader and who is not involved in any election campaigning activity by the political party, will not be construed as a violation of the guidelines". The panel said that all political parties and candidates are required to ensure strict compliance with India's Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, as amended by the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016. The Commission has unequivocally directed all election officials and machinery to refrain from involving children in any capacity during election-related work or activities. (With inputs from agencies)

India’s election commission issues strict advisory against use of children in any election-related activities

<p>As India gears up for the upcoming general elections in April, the Samajwadi Party (SP) has revealed a list of 16 candidates, including notable figures such as Dimple Yadav, Shafiqur Rahman Barq, and Ravidas Mehrotra, from Uttar Pradesh.</p>

<p>This comes days after SP president Akhilesh Yadav expressed satisfaction with the alliance seat sharing between SP and Congress, emphasising the positive start in the state.</p>

<p>In an announcement on Saturday (Jan 27), Yadav shared in a post on X, "Our cordial alliance with the Congress is off to a good start with 11 strong seats. This trend will move forward with the winning equation. ‘INDIA’ team and ‘PDA’ (Pichhda, Dalit, Alpsankhyak) strategy will change history."</p>

<p>The candidates' list includes Akshay Yadav, Devesh Shakya, Dharmendra Yadav, Anu Tandon, Naval Kishore Shakya, Rajaram Pal, Utkarsh Verma, Anand Bhadauria, Shivshankar Singh Patel, Awadhesh Prasad, Ramprasad Chaudhary, and Kajal Nishad.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-based-tech-entrepreneur-donates-1375-mln-to-alma-mater-iit-madras-685187">US-based tech entrepreneur donates $13.75 mln to alma mater IIT-Madras</a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) faced a setback as Janata Dal-United leader Nitish Kumar took oath as the Chief Minister of Bihar, severing ties with the combined opposition's&nbsp;alliance.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chhattisgarh-encounter-with-naxalites-injures-security-personnel-685178">Encounter in violence-hit Indian state leaves security personnel wounded</a></p>

<p>In West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also expressed her party's independent stance stating, "I had no discussions with the Congress. I have always said that in Bengal, we will fight alone. I am not concerned about what will be done in the (rest of the) country... but we are a secular party, and in Bengal, we alone will defeat BJP."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-navy-rescues-two-hijacked-vessels-in-less-than-36-hours-685151">Indian Navy rescues two hijacked vessels in less than 36 hours</a></strong></p>

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<p>Uttar Pradesh, with its 80 seats, holds significant importance in the Lok Sabha elections. BJP's strong performance in this state has been a key factor in their national dominance. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP secured 62 seats out of the total 80. BJP overshadowed the pre-poll alliance among the SP, RLD, and BSP, which only managed to secure 15 seats.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As India gears up for the upcoming general elections in April, the Samajwadi Party (SP) has revealed a list of 16 candidates, including notable figures such as Dimple Yadav, Shafiqur Rahman Barq, and Ravidas Mehrotra, from Uttar Pradesh.

As India gears up for the upcoming general elections in April, the Samajwadi Party (SP) has revealed a list of 16 candidates, including notable figures such as Dimple Yadav, Shafiqur Rahman Barq, and Ravidas Mehrotra, from Uttar Pradesh. This comes days after SP president Akhilesh Yadav expressed satisfaction with the alliance seat sharing between SP and Congress, emphasising the positive start in the state. In an announcement on Saturday (Jan 27), Yadav shared in a post on X, "Our cordial alliance with the Congress is off to a good start with 11 strong seats. This trend will move forward with the winning equation. ‘INDIA’ team and ‘PDA’ (Pichhda, Dalit, Alpsankhyak) strategy will change history." The candidates' list includes Akshay Yadav, Devesh Shakya, Dharmendra Yadav, Anu Tandon, Naval Kishore Shakya, Rajaram Pal, Utkarsh Verma, Anand Bhadauria, Shivshankar Singh Patel, Awadhesh Prasad, Ramprasad Chaudhary, and Kajal Nishad. Also Read | US-based tech entrepreneur donates $13.75 mln to alma mater IIT-Madras Meanwhile, the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) faced a setback as Janata Dal-United leader Nitish Kumar took oath as the Chief Minister of Bihar, severing ties with the combined opposition's alliance. Also Read | Encounter in violence-hit Indian state leaves security personnel wounded In West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also expressed her party's independent stance stating, "I had no discussions with the Congress. I have always said that in Bengal, we will fight alone. I am not concerned about what will be done in the (rest of the) country... but we are a secular party, and in Bengal, we alone will defeat BJP." Watch | Indian Navy rescues two hijacked vessels in less than 36 hours × Uttar Pradesh, with its 80 seats, holds significant importance in the Lok Sabha elections. BJP's strong performance in this state has been a key factor in their national dominance. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP secured 62 seats out of the total 80. BJP overshadowed the pre-poll alliance among the SP, RLD, and BSP, which only managed to secure 15 seats. (With inputs from agencies)

India elections 2024: Samajwadi Party announces names of 16 candidates from Uttar Pradesh

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (Dec 27) referred to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "friend" whom he wishes "every success" in reference to India's upcoming general elections in the summer of 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin said that the "traditional conventional friendly ties" will persist between India and Moscow "no matter what the alignment of political forces" is.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The outcome of upcoming Lok Sabha polls, in which Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party will be seeking a third consecutive term in power, remains very important for India’s foreign policy posture.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Putin's comment that friendly ties will persist between India and Russia "no matter the alignment of political forces", reflects the depth of Moscow-Delhi ties. This geopolitical depth between the two countries, Putin indicated, remains immune to the developments elsewhere in the world, especially during ongoing war in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-invites-pm-modi-to-russia-during-his-meeting-with-eam-jaishankar-674148">Putin invites PM Modi to Russia during his meeting with EAM Jaishankar</a></strong></p>

<p>Putin's comment came hours after India's Foreign Minister Dr S Jaishankar during his visit to Moscow referred to India-Russia ties as the "only constant" in world politics.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Reading into Putin wishing well for Modi: What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>In the recent weeks, Putin has expressed notes of praise for Indian Prime Minister Narendra&nbsp; Modi.</p>

<p>"Let me say that the relations between Russia and India are consistently developing in all areas, and the main guarantor for that is the policy led by Prime Minister Modi," Putin had said on December 7 in St. Petersburg.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-putin-praises-india-says-pm-modi-guarantor-of-stronger-moscow-delhi-ties-667297">Putin praises India, says PM Modi 'guarantor' of stronger Moscow-Delhi ties</a></strong></p>

<p>"I cannot imagine His Excellency Modi getting intimidated or being forced to take any steps or actions that would go against the national interests of India and the people of India," Putin said, in an indirect reference to India buying Russian oil despite war in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Russian President Vladimir Putin praises India. Says, PM Modi despite pressure on him, took action which are in interest of India (buying Russian Oil).<br />
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Vdo ctsy: Sputnik <a href="https://t.co/C6cQ1Eh28Z">pic.twitter.com/C6cQ1Eh28Z</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1732753535534821720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>New Delhi has staunchly defended its purchase of Russian oil when accused by the West of ‘funding the war in Ukraine’.</p>

<p>Just two months before launching an offensive on Ukraine in February 2022, Putin visited New Delhi in December 2021 for annual India-Russia summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/putins-actions-in-ukraine-do-not-make-indians-anti-russia-heres-why-613578">Putin’s actions in Ukraine do not make Indians anti-Russia. Here’s why</a></strong></p>

<p>Besides, if the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance returns to power with an&nbsp;as strong or stronger-than-before mandate, India's position of its evolving ties with various countries of the world is expected to remain consistent, if not sharper than now.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>India-Russia ties: What is the bottom-line ahead of 2024 polls?</strong></h2>

<p>The consistency in ties with New Delhi, at a time when Russia is facing isolation from the collective West due to war in Ukraine, remains a geopolitical asset for Moscow's corridors of power. An asset Putin would least want to lose.&nbsp;</p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (Dec 27) referred to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "friend" whom he wishes "every success" in reference to India's upcoming general elections in the summer of 2024.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (Dec 27) referred to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "friend" whom he wishes "every success" in reference to India's upcoming general elections in the summer of 2024. Putin said that the "traditional conventional friendly ties" will persist between India and Moscow "no matter what the alignment of political forces" is. The outcome of upcoming Lok Sabha polls, in which Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party will be seeking a third consecutive term in power, remains very important for India’s foreign policy posture. But Putin's comment that friendly ties will persist between India and Russia "no matter the alignment of political forces", reflects the depth of Moscow-Delhi ties. This geopolitical depth between the two countries, Putin indicated, remains immune to the developments elsewhere in the world, especially during ongoing war in Ukraine. Also read | Putin invites PM Modi to Russia during his meeting with EAM Jaishankar Putin's comment came hours after India's Foreign Minister Dr S Jaishankar during his visit to Moscow referred to India-Russia ties as the "only constant" in world politics. Reading into Putin wishing well for Modi: What does it mean? In the recent weeks, Putin has expressed notes of praise for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "Let me say that the relations between Russia and India are consistently developing in all areas, and the main guarantor for that is the policy led by Prime Minister Modi," Putin had said on December 7 in St. Petersburg. Also read | Putin praises India, says PM Modi 'guarantor' of stronger Moscow-Delhi ties "I cannot imagine His Excellency Modi getting intimidated or being forced to take any steps or actions that would go against the national interests of India and the people of India," Putin said, in an indirect reference to India buying Russian oil despite war in Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin praises India. Says, PM Modi despite pressure on him, took action which are in interest of India (buying Russian Oil). Vdo ctsy: Sputnik pic.twitter.com/C6cQ1Eh28Z — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) December 7, 2023 × New Delhi has staunchly defended its purchase of Russian oil when accused by the West of ‘funding the war in Ukraine’. Just two months before launching an offensive on Ukraine in February 2022, Putin visited New Delhi in December 2021 for annual India-Russia summit. Also read | Putin’s actions in Ukraine do not make Indians anti-Russia. Here’s why Besides, if the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance returns to power with an as strong or stronger-than-before mandate, India's position of its evolving ties with various countries of the world is expected to remain consistent, if not sharper than now. India-Russia ties: What is the bottom-line ahead of 2024 polls? The consistency in ties with New Delhi, at a time when Russia is facing isolation from the collective West due to war in Ukraine, remains a geopolitical asset for Moscow's corridors of power. An asset Putin would least want to lose.

Putin wished Modi well for Lok Sabha elections. Here’s what it means for India-Russia ties

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