With just three days to go for the last day of filing nominations for the seats, the Congress has kept the suspense going for the prestigious Amethi and Raebareli constituencies, not naming candidates for them in the latest list of names for the Lok Sabha polls released on Tuesday. Watch in for more details!

India Election 2024 | Congress' new list: No names for Amethi, Raebareli

The India growth story is now a global phenomenon that investors around the world are watching. With India expected to induct a new government soon. Voters are also keenly looking at the hits and misses of the current government's economic policies. Take a look at this report to find out how economics could affect India's political system.

India Election 2024 | Impact of economic policies on voter perception

Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, a senior leader of the Indian National Congress (INC), made a controversial statement on Tuesday as he said while addressing a gathering in the east Indian state of West Bengal that it is "better" to vote for the rival Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) than the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC).&nbsp;

During a speech in Bengali language, the Leader of the Congress&nbsp;in the Lok Sabha,&nbsp;said, "It is necessary for Congress and the Left to win. If they don't, secularism will be at stake. Voting for TMC means voting for the BJP, so it's better to vote for BJP only. Don't vote for BJP, don't vote for TMC."&nbsp;

Watch the video here:&nbsp;

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Instead of Voting for TMC, go and vote for BJP : WB Congress chief Adhir Ranjan Chaudhary 🤣🤣 <a href="https://t.co/vFCOTV6rqG">pic.twitter.com/vFCOTV6rqG</a>
— Mr Sinha (Modi's family) (@MrSinha_) <a href="https://twitter.com/MrSinha_/status/1785596864622215557?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-wealth-redistribution-scheme-why-is-the-solicitor-general-calling-it-rustic-and-juvenile-717093">Congress' wealth redistribution scheme: Why is the Solicitor General calling it 'rustic and juvenile'?</a>&nbsp;

Several BJP leaders shared the video on social media platforms targeting West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee-led TMC. BJP leader Shehzad Poonawalla wrote on X, "Even Adhir Da (tallest leader of Congress knows that a vote for TMC is a vote that will harm Bengal) because of TMC policies to defend corrupt syndicate, mafias, blast accused, terrorists &amp; rapists like Shahjahan Shaikh in Sandeshkhali."&nbsp;

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No Mission 
No Vision 
 
INDI = Only Ambition , Division, Corruption &amp; Confusion 
 
Even Adhir Da ( tallest leader of Congress knows that a vote for TMC is a vote that will harm Bengal ) because of TMC policies to defend corrupt syndicate , mafias , blast accused , terrorists &amp;… <a href="https://t.co/SrFSyKNBre">pic.twitter.com/SrFSyKNBre</a>
— Shehzad Jai Hind (Modi Ka Parivar) (@Shehzad_Ind) <a href="https://twitter.com/Shehzad_Ind/status/1785590754750218668?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-invites-putin-linked-party-netanyahus-party-to-witness-the-election-campaign-716976">BJP invites Putin-linked party, Netanyahu's party to witness the election campaign</a>&nbsp;

TMC slammed Chowdhury's comments, saying, "After acting as the eyes and ears of BJP in Bengal, Adhir Chowdhury has now been promoted to be the voice of the BJP in Bengal. Listen to how the B-Team member is openly asking people to vote for the BJP – a party that REFUSED to release Bengal's rightful due and deprived our people of their rights (sic)."&nbsp;

It added, "Only a Bangla-Birodhi can campaign for the BJP, which has repeatedly insulted Bengal's icons. On May 13, the people of Behrampur will give a befitting response to this betrayal!"&nbsp;

<h2>Congress reacts to the video&nbsp;</h2>

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh responded to a question regarding the video and said he hadn't watched it yet. He said, "I haven't seen the video and don't know in which context he has said this but I want to make it clear that Congress party has just one aim that is to heavily decrease the number of seats of the BJP that it got in 2019."&nbsp;

The Congress, the Left parties and the TMC are part of the INDI alliance, but there is no seat-sharing between the Congress and TMC in West Bengal for the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, a senior leader of the Indian National Congress (INC), made a controversial statement on Tuesday as he said while addressing a gathering in the east Indian state of West Bengal that it is "better" to vote for the rival Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) than the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC).

Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, a senior leader of the Indian National Congress (INC), made a controversial statement on Tuesday as he said while addressing a gathering in the east Indian state of West Bengal that it is "better" to vote for the rival Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) than the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC). During a speech in Bengali language, the Leader of the Congress in the Lok Sabha, said, "It is necessary for Congress and the Left to win. If they don't, secularism will be at stake. Voting for TMC means voting for the BJP, so it's better to vote for BJP only. Don't vote for BJP, don't vote for TMC." Watch the video here: Instead of Voting for TMC, go and vote for BJP : WB Congress chief Adhir Ranjan Chaudhary 🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/vFCOTV6rqG — Mr Sinha (Modi's family) (@MrSinha_) May 1, 2024 × Also read: Congress' wealth redistribution scheme: Why is the Solicitor General calling it 'rustic and juvenile'? Several BJP leaders shared the video on social media platforms targeting West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee-led TMC. BJP leader Shehzad Poonawalla wrote on X, "Even Adhir Da (tallest leader of Congress knows that a vote for TMC is a vote that will harm Bengal) because of TMC policies to defend corrupt syndicate, mafias, blast accused, terrorists & rapists like Shahjahan Shaikh in Sandeshkhali." No Mission No Vision INDI = Only Ambition , Division, Corruption & Confusion Even Adhir Da ( tallest leader of Congress knows that a vote for TMC is a vote that will harm Bengal ) because of TMC policies to defend corrupt syndicate , mafias , blast accused , terrorists &… pic.twitter.com/SrFSyKNBre — Shehzad Jai Hind (Modi Ka Parivar) (@Shehzad_Ind) May 1, 2024 × Also read: BJP invites Putin-linked party, Netanyahu's party to witness the election campaign TMC slammed Chowdhury's comments, saying, "After acting as the eyes and ears of BJP in Bengal, Adhir Chowdhury has now been promoted to be the voice of the BJP in Bengal. Listen to how the B-Team member is openly asking people to vote for the BJP – a party that REFUSED to release Bengal's rightful due and deprived our people of their rights (sic)." It added, "Only a Bangla-Birodhi can campaign for the BJP, which has repeatedly insulted Bengal's icons. On May 13, the people of Behrampur will give a befitting response to this betrayal!" Congress reacts to the video Congress leader Jairam Ramesh responded to a question regarding the video and said he hadn't watched it yet. He said, "I haven't seen the video and don't know in which context he has said this but I want to make it clear that Congress party has just one aim that is to heavily decrease the number of seats of the BJP that it got in 2019." The Congress, the Left parties and the TMC are part of the INDI alliance, but there is no seat-sharing between the Congress and TMC in West Bengal for the Lok Sabha elections. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury says ‘better to vote for BJP than TMC’

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Monday (Apr 29) that he had informed Pakistan about the 2019 Balakot airstrikes even before&nbsp;the Indian media was apprised&nbsp;of the attack. Citing the incident, Modi claimed&nbsp;that he&nbsp;doesn’t&nbsp;believe in attacking from the back and fights from the front. PM Modi said he himself postponed the announcement to the media as he wanted to inform Islamabad first.

"I&nbsp;had asked the forces to call the media and inform them, but I said before that I would inform Pakistan through telephone about airstrikes at night and the destruction caused, but Pakistan people did not come on the phone. So I asked forces to wait, and after informing them, we later disclosed to the world about airstrikes that happened during the night,"&nbsp;news agency PTI quoted the PM as saying.

PM Modi&nbsp;was speaking&nbsp;at a political rally in Bagalkot in the southern Indian state of Karnataka on Monday (Apr 29). He said he had dialled the neighbouring country&nbsp;but&nbsp; “they&nbsp;wouldn’t&nbsp;take calls”.

Modi further stated that India under his leadership has become&nbsp;‘Naya Bharat’&nbsp;or New India, which&nbsp;doesn’t&nbsp;shy away from killing inside the&nbsp;enemy’s&nbsp;own territory.

<h2>2019 Balakot airstrikes</h2>

India had carried out Balakot airstrikes in February 2019, demolishing training camps of the terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammed in the vicinity of the town of Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in Pakistan.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjPmbOL-emFAxXhxjgGHcwLAD84ChDF9AEoAHoECAcQAQ" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-delhi-congress-chief-arvinder-singh-lovely-resigns-from-top-post-715860" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-delhi-congress-chief-arvinder-singh-lovely-resigns-from-top-post-715860&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjPmbOL-emFAxXhxjgGHcwLAD84ChDF9AEoAHoECAcQAQ">Lok Sabha elections 2024: Arvinder Singh Lovely resigns as Delhi Congress chief</a>

The Indian Air Force (IAF) deployed Mirage fighter jets and used five Israeli-origin Spice 2000 bombs to carry out the February 26 attacks.&nbsp;

The bombing came in response to the February 14 suicide attack in Pulwama in India’s&nbsp; erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, in which 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel&nbsp;were killed.

<h2>‘Saffron terrorism’</h2>

While speaking at another rally in&nbsp;Maharashtra’s&nbsp;Pune, PM Modi accused&nbsp;India’s&nbsp;main opposition Congress party of coming out with&nbsp;a ‘saffron terrorism’&nbsp;theory,&nbsp;in a bid to paint Congress as an anti-Hindu party.

Watch:&nbsp;India elections 2024: Senior BJP leader Rajnath Singh blames heatwave for low voter turnout in polls

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Modi stated that Congress even had the plan ready to put the blame for the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks on&nbsp;‘holy saffron’.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Monday (Apr 29) that he had informed Pakistan about the 2019 Balakot airstrikes even before the Indian media was apprised of the attack.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Monday (Apr 29) that he had informed Pakistan about the 2019 Balakot airstrikes even before the Indian media was apprised of the attack. Citing the incident, Modi claimed that he doesn’t believe in attacking from the back and fights from the front. PM Modi said he himself postponed the announcement to the media as he wanted to inform Islamabad first. "I had asked the forces to call the media and inform them, but I said before that I would inform Pakistan through telephone about airstrikes at night and the destruction caused, but Pakistan people did not come on the phone. So I asked forces to wait, and after informing them, we later disclosed to the world about airstrikes that happened during the night," news agency PTI quoted the PM as saying. PM Modi was speaking at a political rally in Bagalkot in the southern Indian state of Karnataka on Monday (Apr 29). He said he had dialled the neighbouring country but “they wouldn’t take calls”. Modi further stated that India under his leadership has become ‘Naya Bharat’ or New India, which doesn’t shy away from killing inside the enemy’s own territory. 2019 Balakot airstrikes India had carried out Balakot airstrikes in February 2019, demolishing training camps of the terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammed in the vicinity of the town of Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in Pakistan. Also read: Lok Sabha elections 2024: Arvinder Singh Lovely resigns as Delhi Congress chief The Indian Air Force (IAF) deployed Mirage fighter jets and used five Israeli-origin Spice 2000 bombs to carry out the February 26 attacks. The bombing came in response to the February 14 suicide attack in Pulwama in India’s erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, in which 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed. ‘Saffron terrorism’ While speaking at another rally in Maharashtra’s Pune, PM Modi accused India’s main opposition Congress party of coming out with a ‘saffron terrorism’ theory, in a bid to paint Congress as an anti-Hindu party. Watch: India elections 2024: Senior BJP leader Rajnath Singh blames heatwave for low voter turnout in polls × Modi stated that Congress even had the plan ready to put the blame for the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks on ‘holy saffron’. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Informed Pak about Balakot strike before media’: PM Modi highlights his ‘fight from front’ policy

Six-time Madhya Pradesh MLA Ramniwas Rawat joined the BJP on Tuesday, dealing a severe blow to the Congress. Rawat was a minister in Digvijay Singh's ministry and the former executive president of the MP Congress. He is now allied with the BJP, and Chief Minister Mohan Yadav was present for his induction.

Lok Sabha Elections: 6-time Madhya Pradesh MLA Ramniwas Rawat quits Congress, joins BJP

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

Voter apathy in India: Why millions of Indians don't vote

A policeman of the Madhya Pradesh Special Armed Force killed himself on Friday (Apr 26) during Indian general election duty in Chhattisgarh's Gariaband district, police said as reported by the India-based news agency PTI.

A policeman of the Madhya Pradesh Special Armed Force killed himself on Friday (Apr 26) during Indian general election duty in Chhattisgarh's Gariaband district, police said as reported by the India-based news agency PTI. The official also mentioned that no suicide note was found at the spot, and added that a probe was underway. He shot himself with his service rifle. Local reports suggest that it was suicide. Also read: Will India run on Sharia?: Amit Shah criticises Congress manifesto The police officer said that the incident took place around 9:30 am (IST) at a government school in Kudedadar village under Piparchhedi police station limits where security personnel on poll duty have been stationed. In the second phase of the Lok Sabha Polls, voting was underway in Gariaband, which falls in the Mahasamund constituency. The head constable, who has been identified as Jiyalal Pawar, allegedly shot himself with his service rifle in a room at the school, the police said. Also read: 102-year-old casts vote at Jammu polling booth The official has noted that Pawar was in the reserve team and was not deployed for active poll work. He belonged to Batallion No. 34 of the MP Special Armed Force. Police rushed to the spot immediately after they were alerted about the incident and shifted the body for the postmortem. On Friday, voting took place in a total of 88 constituencies in the second phase of the Lok Sabha Elections across 13 states and union territories. Over 1,200 candidates contested the polls. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha elections 2024: Policeman on election duty kills self with service rifle

Kerala is called the 'god's own country'. Known for its pristine nature and high-levels of social progress, the southern state is currently the only one ruled by the communists. On pollnomics today, we take a look at Kerala.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Kerala ranks high in several socio-economic indicators

The second phase of Lok Sabha elections witnessed the maximum voter turnout in Tripura with 78.53 per cent voting, whereas Uttar Pradesh registered the lowest with 53.71 per cent, as per the data released by the Election Commission of India.

The states including Manipur, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh and Assam also registered healthy turnouts with Manipur at 77.18 per cent, West Bengal at 71.84 per cent, Chhattisgarh at 72.61 per cent, Assam at 70.66 per cent.

The states with relatively lower turnouts include Maharashtra at 53.84 per cent, Bihar at 54.91 per cent, Madhya Pradesh at 55.77 per cent and Rajasthan at 59.19 per cent respectively.

The voter turnout of other states are Kerala at 63.97 per cent, Karnataka at 64.85 per cent, and Jammu and Kashmir at 71.21 per cent.&nbsp;

The second phase of Lok Sabha elections covered 88 seats across 13 states and Union Territories which started at 8 am and went on till 6 pm.

Several constituencies that went into polls today experienced intense heat conditions. The first phase was held on April 19 in 102 seats across 21 states and Union territories.

Polling was held in all 20 seats of Kerala, 14 of the 28 seats in Karnataka, 13 seats in Rajasthan, 8 seats each in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, 6 seats in Madhya Pradesh, 5 seats each in Assam and Bihar, 3 seats each in Chhattisgarh and West Bengal, and 1 seat each in Manipur, Tripura and Jammu and Kashmir.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-phase-2-voting-mallikarjun-kharge-tries-to-hold-on-to-last-straws-in-his-appeal-for-vote-715237">Lok Sabha Elections phase 2 voting: Mallikarjun Kharge tries to hold on to last straws in his appeal for vote</a>

<h2>Key candidates</h2>

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, Union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar and actor-turned-politician Arun Govil, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar’s brother DK Suresh (Cong), and former Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy (JDS) are among the key candidates, whereas BJP’s Hema Malini, Om Birla and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat are seeking a hat-trick from their respective constituencies.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the morning, urged people to cast their votes stating that a high voter turnout would further strengthen democracy.

“Phase Two has been too good! Gratitude to the people across India who have voted today. The unparalleled support for NDA is going to disappoint the Opposition even more. Voters want NDA’s good governance. Youth and women voters are powering the strong NDA support,” he wrote in a post on X.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The second phase of Lok Sabha elections witnessed the maximum voter turnout in Tripura with 78.53 per cent voting, whereas Uttar Pradesh registered the lowest with 53.

The second phase of Lok Sabha elections witnessed the maximum voter turnout in Tripura with 78.53 per cent voting, whereas Uttar Pradesh registered the lowest with 53.71 per cent, as per the data released by the Election Commission of India. The states including Manipur, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh and Assam also registered healthy turnouts with Manipur at 77.18 per cent, West Bengal at 71.84 per cent, Chhattisgarh at 72.61 per cent, Assam at 70.66 per cent. The states with relatively lower turnouts include Maharashtra at 53.84 per cent, Bihar at 54.91 per cent, Madhya Pradesh at 55.77 per cent and Rajasthan at 59.19 per cent respectively. The voter turnout of other states are Kerala at 63.97 per cent, Karnataka at 64.85 per cent, and Jammu and Kashmir at 71.21 per cent. The second phase of Lok Sabha elections covered 88 seats across 13 states and Union Territories which started at 8 am and went on till 6 pm. Several constituencies that went into polls today experienced intense heat conditions. The first phase was held on April 19 in 102 seats across 21 states and Union territories. Polling was held in all 20 seats of Kerala, 14 of the 28 seats in Karnataka, 13 seats in Rajasthan, 8 seats each in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, 6 seats in Madhya Pradesh, 5 seats each in Assam and Bihar, 3 seats each in Chhattisgarh and West Bengal, and 1 seat each in Manipur, Tripura and Jammu and Kashmir. Also read: Lok Sabha Elections phase 2 voting: Mallikarjun Kharge tries to hold on to last straws in his appeal for vote Key candidates Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, Union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar and actor-turned-politician Arun Govil, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar’s brother DK Suresh (Cong), and former Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy (JDS) are among the key candidates, whereas BJP’s Hema Malini, Om Birla and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat are seeking a hat-trick from their respective constituencies. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the morning, urged people to cast their votes stating that a high voter turnout would further strengthen democracy. “Phase Two has been too good! Gratitude to the people across India who have voted today. The unparalleled support for NDA is going to disappoint the Opposition even more. Voters want NDA’s good governance. Youth and women voters are powering the strong NDA support,” he wrote in a post on X. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls 2nd phase: Tripura leads voter turnout with 78.53%, UP numbers lowest

North East India is known for its unique culture and pristine beauty. The region has political and economic features, distinct from the rest of India. On Pollnomics, we tell you the story of north east and its rise in India's economic landscape.

India elections 2024: Northeast is turning out to be India's growth engine

The world's largest democracy India's Mammoth parliamentary elections roll into the second of seven phases today with all eyes on the southern state of Kerala and Karnataka. Voting begins in 88 seats across 12 States and one Union territory with several prominent contestants. Watch to know more.

India General Elections 2024: 159 MN voters, 12 states, 1 union territory

India General Elections 2024: Phase 2 Lok Sabha elections voter turnout

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India General Elections 2024: Voting in 88 constituencies across India

Indian YouTuber Manish Kashyap, who was jailed by an opposition-ruled state last year for allegedly circulating fake videos, has joined the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). While joining the party Thursday (Apr 25) in the presence of BJP MP Manoj Tiwari, Kashyap said his mother asked him to join Prime Minister Narendra&nbsp;Modi’s&nbsp;party.

“Yesterday we came from Bihar to Delhi with Manoj Tiwari. It was because of them (Manoj Tiwari, BJP) that I could come out of jail. So I have joined the BJP. My mother is a fan of Narendra Modi,”&nbsp;Kashyap said.

“Only BJP could have given this honour to the son of a poor family...There are a few parties in Bihar that&nbsp;don't&nbsp;let you even join if you&nbsp;don't&nbsp;approach with full (of cash) suitcases. BJP respects the poor, women, a YouTuber, a mother. So, BJP is a different party and that is why it has emerged as the biggest capable party in the world...I will keep working for nationalism as I have always done. When I used to do it earlier, a few parties used to frame me and jail me. A lot of BJP leaders supported me...If I am safely out of jail today, it is due to the blessings of my mother and thesupport of BJP leaders,”&nbsp;Manish said as quoted by news agency ANI.

<h2>Who is Manish Kashyap?</h2>

Kashyap is very popular among those interested in the politics of the eastern Indian state of Bihar. Kashyap hails from Bettiah in Bihar&nbsp;and&nbsp;his real name is Tripurari Kumar Tiwari.

He became famous for his provocative vlogging, where he would go to senior government officers and take them to cleaners for not doing their duties diligently.

His YouTube channel,&nbsp;under the name of&nbsp;'Manish Kasyap Son of Bihar'&nbsp;has over 8.75 million subscribers.

Kashyap is an engineer by profession. He contested elections earlier in 2020 from the Chanpatia Assembly seat of Bihar but stood defeated.

Manish was arrested in March 2023 by the government of Bihar for allegedly circulating fake videos of Bihar migrants&nbsp;being beaten up&nbsp;in the southern state of Tamil Nadu.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj32_Dcrd2FAxVQk1YBHdvNBrUQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-and-all-you-need-to-know-703540" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-and-all-you-need-to-know-703540&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj32_Dcrd2FAxVQk1YBHdvNBrUQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Bihar Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, dates, phases, seats and all you need to know</a>

After his arrest, Manish&nbsp;was then&nbsp;shifted&nbsp;to Tamil Nadu, another opposition-ruled state. He walked out of jail in December 2023.

Manish was accused of fuelling tensions between Tamil Nadu and Bihar, even as Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin urged people not to believe the rumours.

Several cases, including the draconian National Security Act (NSA), were filed against Kashyap. He surrendered before the police after being at large for some time.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj32_Dcrd2FAxVQk1YBHdvNBrUQxfQBKAB6BAgTEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-pashupati-kumar-paras-union-minister-who-resigned-after-poll-alliance-snub-in-bihar-701920" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-pashupati-kumar-paras-union-minister-who-resigned-after-poll-alliance-snub-in-bihar-701920&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj32_Dcrd2FAxVQk1YBHdvNBrUQxfQBKAB6BAgTEAE">Who is Pashupati Kumar Paras, union minister who resigned after poll alliance snub in Bihar?</a>

“NSA was slapped on me but now I have not only been granted bail but all charges are cleared now. NSA is also withdrawn...my fight against those who defame Sanatan will continue,"&nbsp;Kashyap told reporters.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian YouTuber Manish Kashyap, who was jailed by an opposition-ruled state last year for allegedly circulating fake videos, has joined the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Indian YouTuber Manish Kashyap, who was jailed by an opposition-ruled state last year for allegedly circulating fake videos, has joined the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). While joining the party Thursday (Apr 25) in the presence of BJP MP Manoj Tiwari, Kashyap said his mother asked him to join Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s party. “Yesterday we came from Bihar to Delhi with Manoj Tiwari. It was because of them (Manoj Tiwari, BJP) that I could come out of jail. So I have joined the BJP. My mother is a fan of Narendra Modi,” Kashyap said. “Only BJP could have given this honour to the son of a poor family...There are a few parties in Bihar that don't let you even join if you don't approach with full (of cash) suitcases. BJP respects the poor, women, a YouTuber, a mother. So, BJP is a different party and that is why it has emerged as the biggest capable party in the world...I will keep working for nationalism as I have always done. When I used to do it earlier, a few parties used to frame me and jail me. A lot of BJP leaders supported me...If I am safely out of jail today, it is due to the blessings of my mother and thesupport of BJP leaders,” Manish said as quoted by news agency ANI. Who is Manish Kashyap? Kashyap is very popular among those interested in the politics of the eastern Indian state of Bihar. Kashyap hails from Bettiah in Bihar and his real name is Tripurari Kumar Tiwari. He became famous for his provocative vlogging, where he would go to senior government officers and take them to cleaners for not doing their duties diligently. His YouTube channel, under the name of 'Manish Kasyap Son of Bihar' has over 8.75 million subscribers. Kashyap is an engineer by profession. He contested elections earlier in 2020 from the Chanpatia Assembly seat of Bihar but stood defeated. Manish was arrested in March 2023 by the government of Bihar for allegedly circulating fake videos of Bihar migrants being beaten up in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. Also read: Bihar Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, dates, phases, seats and all you need to know After his arrest, Manish was then shifted to Tamil Nadu, another opposition-ruled state. He walked out of jail in December 2023. Manish was accused of fuelling tensions between Tamil Nadu and Bihar, even as Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin urged people not to believe the rumours. Several cases, including the draconian National Security Act (NSA), were filed against Kashyap. He surrendered before the police after being at large for some time. Also read: Who is Pashupati Kumar Paras, union minister who resigned after poll alliance snub in Bihar? “NSA was slapped on me but now I have not only been granted bail but all charges are cleared now. NSA is also withdrawn...my fight against those who defame Sanatan will continue," Kashyap told reporters. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Manish Kashyap—Indian YouTuber who recently joined BJP?

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: India votes in phase 2

Bru migrants who have resettled in Tripura voted for&nbsp;the Lok Sabha elections in the northeastern state for the first time since their permanent resettlement, which occurred as a result of a four-party agreement involving the central government, and the state governments of Tripura and Mizoram, back in 2020.&nbsp;

The refugees fled from violence in Mizoram 27 years ago. They had previously taken part in the 2023 Assembly elections in Tripura. In the preceding three Lok Sabha elections (2009, 2014, and 2019), the Bru migrants voted as constituents of Mizoram.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-heatwave-warning-issued-in-many-states-going-to-polls-in-second-phase-715314">Also read |&nbsp;Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Heatwave warning issued in many states going to polls in second phase</a>

Laldingliana, the general secretary of the Mizoram Bru Displaced People’s Coordination Committee (MBDPCC), stated that the majority of Bru people&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-policeman-on-election-duty-kills-himself-with-service-rifle-715318">cast their votes</a> peacefully since the morning. They voted at their closest polling stations across various locations, including a newly established booth at Laungang in the South district, where Bru migrants were resettled as part of the agreement.

Mizoram Bru Displaced People’s Forum (MBDPF) general secretary Bruno Msha said, “We are casting our votes for the Lok Sabha polls in Tripura for the first time. We took part in three other Lok Sabha elections while we stayed in Tripura before but we never cast votes in any of those elections in Tripura”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-rajasthan-groom-reaches-polling-station-with-baraat-to-cast-vote-715365">Also read |&nbsp;Rajasthan Groom reaches polling station with 'Baraat' to cast&nbsp;vote&nbsp;</a>

<h2>Bru migrants' voting and resettlement</h2>

In previous <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-ec-books-bjps-tejasvi-surya-for-soliciting-votes-in-name-of-religion-715349">Lok Sabha polls</a>, Bru migrants voted at transit camp facilitation centres&nbsp;in 2009 and 2014, and special polling centres&nbsp;in Mizoram's Mamit district during 2019.

Around 32,000 Bru, also known as Reang, fled Mizoram following ethnic clashes in 1997, seeking refuge in Tripura.

After two decades, a quadripartite agreement was signed on July 3, 2018, aiming to repatriate 5,407 Bru families, totalling 32,876 people, from temporary camps in Tripura to Mizoram.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;India General Elections 2024: Google doodle marks India poll's second phase

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Initially housed in six relief camps in North Tripura, a renewed agreement in 2020 proposed permanent resettlement in Tripura. The agreement also promised inclusion in Tripura's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-bengaluru-doctor-performs-cpr-on-woman-in-cardiac-arrest-at-polling-booth-saves-her-715275">electoral rolls</a>, marking significant steps toward resolving the long-standing displacement issue and facilitating their integration.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Bru migrants who have resettled in Tripura voted for the Lok Sabha elections in the northeastern state for the first time since their permanent resettlement, which occurred as a result of a four-party agreement involving the central government, and the state governments of Tripura and Mizoram, back in 2020.

Bru migrants who have resettled in Tripura voted for the Lok Sabha elections in the northeastern state for the first time since their permanent resettlement, which occurred as a result of a four-party agreement involving the central government, and the state governments of Tripura and Mizoram, back in 2020. The refugees fled from violence in Mizoram 27 years ago. They had previously taken part in the 2023 Assembly elections in Tripura. In the preceding three Lok Sabha elections (2009, 2014, and 2019), the Bru migrants voted as constituents of Mizoram. Also read | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Heatwave warning issued in many states going to polls in second phase Laldingliana, the general secretary of the Mizoram Bru Displaced People’s Coordination Committee (MBDPCC), stated that the majority of Bru people cast their votes peacefully since the morning. They voted at their closest polling stations across various locations, including a newly established booth at Laungang in the South district, where Bru migrants were resettled as part of the agreement. Mizoram Bru Displaced People’s Forum (MBDPF) general secretary Bruno Msha said, “We are casting our votes for the Lok Sabha polls in Tripura for the first time. We took part in three other Lok Sabha elections while we stayed in Tripura before but we never cast votes in any of those elections in Tripura”. Also read | Rajasthan Groom reaches polling station with 'Baraat' to cast vote Bru migrants' voting and resettlement In previous Lok Sabha polls, Bru migrants voted at transit camp facilitation centres in 2009 and 2014, and special polling centres in Mizoram's Mamit district during 2019. Around 32,000 Bru, also known as Reang, fled Mizoram following ethnic clashes in 1997, seeking refuge in Tripura. After two decades, a quadripartite agreement was signed on July 3, 2018, aiming to repatriate 5,407 Bru families, totalling 32,876 people, from temporary camps in Tripura to Mizoram. Also watch | India General Elections 2024: Google doodle marks India poll's second phase Initially housed in six relief camps in North Tripura, a renewed agreement in 2020 proposed permanent resettlement in Tripura. The agreement also promised inclusion in Tripura's electoral rolls, marking significant steps toward resolving the long-standing displacement issue and facilitating their integration. (With inputs from agencies)

In a first, Bru migrants vote in Tripura's Lok Sabha polls after resettlement

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: 88 seats up for grabs in phase 2

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - India: Phase 2 voting ends - US troops to leave Chad - Pro-Palestine protests in Paris University - Spain to send Patriot missile to Kyiv - Gaza: Baby saved from dead mother's womb dies - France, Germany to develop new battle tank

Spain to send Patriot missile to Kyiv | India: Phase 2 voting ends

India General Elections: Voting ends in Phase II, 159 million voters across 12 states & 1 UT

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - India: Final hour of 2nd phase voting - US troops to leave Chad - Pro-Palestine protests in Paris University - Yen hits fresh 34-year low - Gaza: Baby saved from dead mother's womb dies - France, Germany to develop new battle tank

India: Final hour of 2nd phase voting | US troops to leave Chad

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

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

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

Lok Sabha Elections 2024 phase 2 voting: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge took to social media&nbsp;as 88 Lok Sabha seats went to polls on April 24 (Friday) across 13 states and union territories, and said that this is not an ordinary election.

"'We, the people of India' - this soul of the Constitution of India, should reverberate in your hearts and minds, before you push the voting button," Kharge, a former member of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly from Gurmitkal Assembly constituency from 1972 to 2008, wrote on X, formerly Twitter.&nbsp;

"Do not forget that this is not an ordinary election," wrote the senior Congress leader, adding that it is an "an election to protect Democracy from the clutches of dictatorship."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-phase-2-voting-what-is-at-stake-for-key-leaders-and-parties-715203">Lok Sabha Elections Phase 2 Voting: What is at stake for key leaders and parties?</a>

"To all my dear citizens, from 89 (sic) Constituencies in 13 States and UTs, do not get swayed by any diversionary tactics and lies," urged the 81-year-old leader. Notably, while earlier 89 constituencies were expected to vote in this phase of voting, votes are being polled in 88 constituencies as polling in Betul, Madhya Pradesh, was rescheduled after the death of a candidate from Bahujan Samaj Party. Betul will now vote in the third phase, due on May 7.

Noting the 'Nyay' (or justice) promises of the Congress party focused on&nbsp;youth, women, farmers, labourers and shareholding, Kharge urged the electorate to make their vote count. "For it may change the lives of 140 Crore Indians," he added.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;India General Elections 2024: Voting in 88 constituencies across India

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"Imagine a future where Justice, Freedom, Equality and Liberty is guaranteed. A future where rapid inclusive growth and transformative policies are guaranteed," Kharge wrote.

Appealing the first time voters to cast their ballot, the senior Congress leader said: "My dear first time voters, cut the clutter and distance the din, for you are the real changemakers and I welcome each one of you in this movement for Democracy."

"Everyone, please come out and VOTE in large numbers," he wrote.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections 2024 phase 2 voting: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge took to social media as 88 Lok Sabha seats went to polls on April 24 (Friday) across 13 states and union territories, and said that this is not an ordinary election.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024 phase 2 voting: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge took to social media as 88 Lok Sabha seats went to polls on April 24 (Friday) across 13 states and union territories, and said that this is not an ordinary election. "'We, the people of India' - this soul of the Constitution of India, should reverberate in your hearts and minds, before you push the voting button," Kharge, a former member of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly from Gurmitkal Assembly constituency from 1972 to 2008, wrote on X, formerly Twitter. "Do not forget that this is not an ordinary election," wrote the senior Congress leader, adding that it is an "an election to protect Democracy from the clutches of dictatorship." Also read | Lok Sabha Elections Phase 2 Voting: What is at stake for key leaders and parties? "To all my dear citizens, from 89 (sic) Constituencies in 13 States and UTs, do not get swayed by any diversionary tactics and lies," urged the 81-year-old leader. Notably, while earlier 89 constituencies were expected to vote in this phase of voting, votes are being polled in 88 constituencies as polling in Betul, Madhya Pradesh, was rescheduled after the death of a candidate from Bahujan Samaj Party. Betul will now vote in the third phase, due on May 7. Noting the 'Nyay' (or justice) promises of the Congress party focused on youth, women, farmers, labourers and shareholding, Kharge urged the electorate to make their vote count. "For it may change the lives of 140 Crore Indians," he added. Also watch | India General Elections 2024: Voting in 88 constituencies across India × "Imagine a future where Justice, Freedom, Equality and Liberty is guaranteed. A future where rapid inclusive growth and transformative policies are guaranteed," Kharge wrote. Appealing the first time voters to cast their ballot, the senior Congress leader said: "My dear first time voters, cut the clutter and distance the din, for you are the real changemakers and I welcome each one of you in this movement for Democracy." "Everyone, please come out and VOTE in large numbers," he wrote. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections phase 2 voting: Mallikarjun Kharge tries to hold on to last straws in his appeal for vote

Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 2: As Indians vote in 88 constituencies across 13 states and Union Territories during second phase of India's seven-phase election, the raging election summer is sweating the politicians out left, right and centre. But the ruling BJP is contesting with the advantage that it currently holds 54 of these 88 constituencies.&nbsp;

Voting is being held for 20 seats in Kerala, 14 seats in Karnataka, 13 in Rajasthan, eight each in Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra, seven in Madhya Pradesh, five each in Assam and Bihar, three each in Bengal and Chhattisgarh and one each in Jammu and Kashmir, Manipur and Tripura.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Lok Sabha Elections 2024: India votes in phase 2

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Here's what it means for the key parties and leaders:

Bharatiya Janata Party: The ruling BJP has never won a seat in Kerala, where electorate are voting to elect Members of Parliament from all 20 Lok Sabha seats. A win in Kerala would add to the ruling party's advantage, not just in terms of the numbers but also to break the jinx. The BJP had won 25 of the 28 Lok Sabha seats in the neighbouring Karnataka in 2019 Lok Sabha elections but lost assembly elections in the state, adding to the subtle disadvantage for the saffron party. The party has fielded actors Arun Govil in Meerut, Hema Malini in Mathura and Suresh Gopi in Thrissur. As the leader of National Democratic Alliance, in Bihar, it faces the challenge to ensure ally JDU's win in Purnea which became a trilateral battleground between JDU, RJD and controversial politician Pappu Yadav contesting as an independent candidate.&nbsp;

Indian National Congress: The Congress party turned to South to make up for the losses in the north as PM Modi became the centre of Indian politics with overwhelming gains in the Hindi heartland since 2014. From Mallikarjun Kharge and KC Venugopal to Rahul Gandhi,&nbsp;the leaders of grand old party have hoped to peak the scales of the south of Vindhyas during Modi years in power from where they intend to gain the political ground lost elsewhere in the country. Losing the ground to BJP in Kerala would throw it further off the edge. Its top leaders, including three-term MP from Thiruvananthapuram Shashi Tharoor and Pathanamthitta MP Anto Antony face&nbsp;a tough fight from BJP's Rajeev Chandrasekhar and Anil Antony respectively. Besides, former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel is contesting from Rajnandgaon. Losing any of these contests would damage the political standing of India's principal opposition party.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/battle-of-the-bastions-will-tharoors-thiruvananthapuram-become-bjps-gateway-in-kerala-711972">Battle of the Bastions: Will Tharoor's Thiruvananthapuram become BJP's gateway in Kerala?</a>

Narendra Modi: The unprecedented significance of PM Modi in Kerala, Karnataka and elsewhere can be underlined by the following remark made by BJP's Malappuram candidate Dr Abdul Salam in an interview with WION. "Not only in Kerala but in all of India, Modi factor is working very well. If at all, if one person is winning from Kerala; hypothetical, I would attribute 95 per cent of that positivity come from the Modi factor. That is the value, acceptance and respect people have for Modi."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/battle-of-the-bastions-in-keralas-malappuram-bjps-lone-muslim-candidate-walks-a-rocky-political-road-714561">Battle of the Bastions: In Kerala's Malappuram, BJP's lone Muslim candidate walks a rocky political road</a>

A win in Kerala would add to Modi's growing profile and gains in the south of Vindhyas would mark a new high in his political career so far in a remarkable shun to the critics who claimed that Modi had peaked in 2019 when he won re-election for the second time.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi: The fifth generation member of Nehru-Gandhi family was forced to contest from Kerala's Wayanad after his family bastion of Amethi in northern India was blown away to the BJP's side in 2019. Potential losses in Kerala, Karnataka and Chhattisgarh would further damage his image and political acumen, or its lack thereof.&nbsp;

Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 2: As Indians vote in 88 constituencies across 13 states and Union Territories during second phase of India's seven-phase election, the raging election summer is sweating the politicians out left, right and centre.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 2: As Indians vote in 88 constituencies across 13 states and Union Territories during second phase of India's seven-phase election, the raging election summer is sweating the politicians out left, right and centre. But the ruling BJP is contesting with the advantage that it currently holds 54 of these 88 constituencies. Voting is being held for 20 seats in Kerala, 14 seats in Karnataka, 13 in Rajasthan, eight each in Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra, seven in Madhya Pradesh, five each in Assam and Bihar, three each in Bengal and Chhattisgarh and one each in Jammu and Kashmir, Manipur and Tripura. Also watch | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: India votes in phase 2 × Here's what it means for the key parties and leaders: Bharatiya Janata Party: The ruling BJP has never won a seat in Kerala, where electorate are voting to elect Members of Parliament from all 20 Lok Sabha seats. A win in Kerala would add to the ruling party's advantage, not just in terms of the numbers but also to break the jinx. The BJP had won 25 of the 28 Lok Sabha seats in the neighbouring Karnataka in 2019 Lok Sabha elections but lost assembly elections in the state, adding to the subtle disadvantage for the saffron party. The party has fielded actors Arun Govil in Meerut, Hema Malini in Mathura and Suresh Gopi in Thrissur. As the leader of National Democratic Alliance, in Bihar, it faces the challenge to ensure ally JDU's win in Purnea which became a trilateral battleground between JDU, RJD and controversial politician Pappu Yadav contesting as an independent candidate. Indian National Congress: The Congress party turned to South to make up for the losses in the north as PM Modi became the centre of Indian politics with overwhelming gains in the Hindi heartland since 2014. From Mallikarjun Kharge and KC Venugopal to Rahul Gandhi, the leaders of grand old party have hoped to peak the scales of the south of Vindhyas during Modi years in power from where they intend to gain the political ground lost elsewhere in the country. Losing the ground to BJP in Kerala would throw it further off the edge. Its top leaders, including three-term MP from Thiruvananthapuram Shashi Tharoor and Pathanamthitta MP Anto Antony face a tough fight from BJP's Rajeev Chandrasekhar and Anil Antony respectively. Besides, former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel is contesting from Rajnandgaon. Losing any of these contests would damage the political standing of India's principal opposition party. Also read | Battle of the Bastions: Will Tharoor's Thiruvananthapuram become BJP's gateway in Kerala? Narendra Modi: The unprecedented significance of PM Modi in Kerala, Karnataka and elsewhere can be underlined by the following remark made by BJP's Malappuram candidate Dr Abdul Salam in an interview with WION. "Not only in Kerala but in all of India, Modi factor is working very well. If at all, if one person is winning from Kerala; hypothetical, I would attribute 95 per cent of that positivity come from the Modi factor. That is the value, acceptance and respect people have for Modi." Also read | Battle of the Bastions: In Kerala's Malappuram, BJP's lone Muslim candidate walks a rocky political road A win in Kerala would add to Modi's growing profile and gains in the south of Vindhyas would mark a new high in his political career so far in a remarkable shun to the critics who claimed that Modi had peaked in 2019 when he won re-election for the second time. Rahul Gandhi: The fifth generation member of Nehru-Gandhi family was forced to contest from Kerala's Wayanad after his family bastion of Amethi in northern India was blown away to the BJP's side in 2019. Potential losses in Kerala, Karnataka and Chhattisgarh would further damage his image and political acumen, or its lack thereof.

Lok Sabha Elections Phase 2 Voting: What is at stake for key leaders and parties?

India General Elections 2024: Fate of 1202 candidates to be sealed

Gravitas: India's first Trans Sarpanch to contest Lok Sabha poll

Today, if you say something about the nation, people immediately try to associate you with some ideology – left, right or something else. This has become a phenomenon across the country, which is an unfortunate situation because these are the mechanics of destroying a democracy.

Earlier, I used to see this in the United States and feel, “What kind of democracy is this?” There, people are already committed to being either a Democrat or a Republican. No matter what happens, they will only vote for their party.

There is a joke about this phenomenon: When a veteran Republican leader was on his deathbed, he requested, “I want to join the Democratic Party.” People said, “Not you! You have been a Republican all your life, and so were your father and your grandfather. And now on your deathbed, you want to become a Democrat?” He said, “Yes, I want to become a Democrat.” They asked, “Why?” He replied, “I would rather have one of them dying.”

Right now, only a very small percentage of the people decide the election in the United States because the rest of them are already fixed on a certain party. This is not democracy. &nbsp;If you belong to one party, and regardless of what happens, you are going to vote only for your party, then it is a feudalistic society, not a democratic society.

In a living democracy, you should evaluate your stance before every election, and that should never be a permanent stance. At the end of every term, each one of us should look at what the elected representatives have done. We must decide individually, and vote based on whether what they have done is good for the current situation and the future of the country.

Unfortunately, in recent years, our country’s political atmosphere is also becoming like that of the United States, where people are fixed on one particular party. This means they are not interested in democracy. When everyone knows who will vote for which party, what is the point of a secret ballot? What is the point of offering citizens the opportunity of choosing the political leadership? You might as well go back to a monarchy, where you belong to either this clan or that clan.

If you want a living democracy, the most important thing is that, except for a few party workers, the rest of the population should not be committed to any party or ideology. We must go beyond this feudalistic mindset of voting as a family, caste or religion because even if one family votes as one unit, then it is not democracy. The idea of a secret ballot is that everyone should think for themselves and vote accordingly. Otherwise, we will subvert the democratic process.

I request all citizens, particularly the young people, not to take political sides. You must debate every issue in the country, and whoever is going to offer solutions must get the vote. You should not have a pet politician of your own. Is the politician that you have elected working for the nation or themselves? This is the first thing you have to see. The second thing is, do they have the breadth of mind, intelligence and competence to create what the nation needs? And do they understand the heartbeat of this nation? If these qualities are present in a politician or a leader, it is our business to support them. If this is not there, it is our business to replace them. But after the election, whomever people elect, you must bow down to the people’s will and support them because this is the idea of democracy.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Today, if you say something about the nation, people immediately try to associate you with some ideology – left, right or something else. This has become a phenomenon across the country, which is an unfortunate situation because these are the mechanics of destroying a democracy.

Today, if you say something about the nation, people immediately try to associate you with some ideology – left, right or something else. This has become a phenomenon across the country, which is an unfortunate situation because these are the mechanics of destroying a democracy. Earlier, I used to see this in the United States and feel, “What kind of democracy is this?” There, people are already committed to being either a Democrat or a Republican. No matter what happens, they will only vote for their party. There is a joke about this phenomenon: When a veteran Republican leader was on his deathbed, he requested, “I want to join the Democratic Party.” People said, “Not you! You have been a Republican all your life, and so were your father and your grandfather. And now on your deathbed, you want to become a Democrat?” He said, “Yes, I want to become a Democrat.” They asked, “Why?” He replied, “I would rather have one of them dying.” Right now, only a very small percentage of the people decide the election in the United States because the rest of them are already fixed on a certain party. This is not democracy. If you belong to one party, and regardless of what happens, you are going to vote only for your party, then it is a feudalistic society, not a democratic society. In a living democracy, you should evaluate your stance before every election, and that should never be a permanent stance. At the end of every term, each one of us should look at what the elected representatives have done. We must decide individually, and vote based on whether what they have done is good for the current situation and the future of the country. Unfortunately, in recent years, our country’s political atmosphere is also becoming like that of the United States, where people are fixed on one particular party. This means they are not interested in democracy. When everyone knows who will vote for which party, what is the point of a secret ballot? What is the point of offering citizens the opportunity of choosing the political leadership? You might as well go back to a monarchy, where you belong to either this clan or that clan. If you want a living democracy, the most important thing is that, except for a few party workers, the rest of the population should not be committed to any party or ideology. We must go beyond this feudalistic mindset of voting as a family, caste or religion because even if one family votes as one unit, then it is not democracy. The idea of a secret ballot is that everyone should think for themselves and vote accordingly. Otherwise, we will subvert the democratic process. I request all citizens, particularly the young people, not to take political sides. You must debate every issue in the country, and whoever is going to offer solutions must get the vote. You should not have a pet politician of your own. Is the politician that you have elected working for the nation or themselves? This is the first thing you have to see. The second thing is, do they have the breadth of mind, intelligence and competence to create what the nation needs? And do they understand the heartbeat of this nation? If these qualities are present in a politician or a leader, it is our business to support them. If this is not there, it is our business to replace them. But after the election, whomever people elect, you must bow down to the people’s will and support them because this is the idea of democracy. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Beyond Party Lines: True Democratic Spirit

The era of curfews and strikes during the elections in India's Kashmir is now over. In a clear departure from the past, the politicians are now are fervently campaigning and holding rallies across the capital, Srinagar.

Lok Sabha Elections | Srinagar: Campaigning at icononic clock tower, change of air in Kashmir

India's Lok Sabha elections are here. Fervent voters are going to cast their vote. Indians began casting votes in their respective constituencies. However, some want to cast a vote but are residing far away from their registered constituency. In this case, few steps can be taken to cast a vote at your current address and city.

India elections 2024: How to cast vote if you live in a different city?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a public rally in Uttar Pradesh's Aligarh. In his speech Modi warned the people of the Congress party and the I.N.D.I.A Alliance. He said they have their eyes on the public's earnings and property...Watch in for more details!

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: PM Modi slams Congress over claims it wants to change Constitution

Whether you are an investor or a political observer, you know there's one thing that's common between the two lifelines of good governance-- that's uncertainty. But as India heads closer to swearing-in a new government, the incumbent is growing confident of sweeping the elections. But what could happen if voters defy popular perception? That's what this report decodes.

Lok Sabha elections 2024: Bernstein's view on Indian political outcome

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