Counting of votes for the Lok Sabha elections, in which over 8,000 candidates were in the fray for 542 seats, will begin at 8.00 am Thursday and results are expected only by late evening due to tallying of voter-verified paper audit trail slips with EVM count for the first time.

67.11 per cent of the 90.99 crore electors had cast their vote in the seven-phase elections.

This is the highest ever voter turnout in Indian parliamentarian elections.

This is for the first time in a Lok Sabha election that results of voting machines will be matched with slips generated by paper trail machines.

The exercise will take place in five polling stations per assembly segment which effectively means that out of nearly 10.3 lakh polling stations, the EVM-VVPAT matching will take place in 20600 such stations.

The Election Commission is yet to provide the number of counting centres being set up for Thursday, saying the data is not centrally available.

As per procedure, postal ballots would be the first to be counted.

Service voters stood at 18 lakh.

These include personnel of the armed forces, central police force personnel and state police personnel who are posted outside their constituencies.

Diplomats and support staff posted in Indian embassies abroad are also counted as service voters.

Out of 18 lakh registered voters, 16.49 lakh have sent their postal ballots to their respective returning officers as on May 17.

The exercise of counting postal ballots manually will itself take a couple of hours at least, an EC official said.

The paper trail machines slips will be counted in the end.

As per the procedure, first the slips will be counted &nbsp;and the EVM displays would be switched on later to match the results.

In case of a mismatch, the results based in paper slip count will be considered as final.

The entire exercise of EVM-Paper trail machine matching will take an additional four to five hours.

Out of the 543 Lok Sabha seats, elections were held in 542 constituencies as the EC had cancelled polls to the Vellore constituency on the grounds of excessive use of money power.

The poll panel is yet to announce a fresh date for elections in Vellore.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, several union ministers, Congress President Rahul Gandhi, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav are among key leaders who contested the polls.

Counting of votes for the Lok Sabha elections, in which over 8,000 candidates were in the fray for 542 seats, will begin at 8.00 am Thursday and results are expected only by late evening due to tallying of voter-verified paper audit trail slips with EVM count for the first time.

Counting of votes for the Lok Sabha elections, in which over 8,000 candidates were in the fray for 542 seats, will begin at 8.00 am Thursday and results are expected only by late evening due to tallying of voter-verified paper audit trail slips with EVM count for the first time. 67.11 per cent of the 90.99 crore electors had cast their vote in the seven-phase elections. This is the highest ever voter turnout in Indian parliamentarian elections. This is for the first time in a Lok Sabha election that results of voting machines will be matched with slips generated by paper trail machines. The exercise will take place in five polling stations per assembly segment which effectively means that out of nearly 10.3 lakh polling stations, the EVM-VVPAT matching will take place in 20600 such stations. The Election Commission is yet to provide the number of counting centres being set up for Thursday, saying the data is not centrally available. As per procedure, postal ballots would be the first to be counted. Service voters stood at 18 lakh. These include personnel of the armed forces, central police force personnel and state police personnel who are posted outside their constituencies. Diplomats and support staff posted in Indian embassies abroad are also counted as service voters. Out of 18 lakh registered voters, 16.49 lakh have sent their postal ballots to their respective returning officers as on May 17. The exercise of counting postal ballots manually will itself take a couple of hours at least, an EC official said. The paper trail machines slips will be counted in the end. As per the procedure, first the slips will be counted and the EVM displays would be switched on later to match the results. In case of a mismatch, the results based in paper slip count will be considered as final. The entire exercise of EVM-Paper trail machine matching will take an additional four to five hours. Out of the 543 Lok Sabha seats, elections were held in 542 constituencies as the EC had cancelled polls to the Vellore constituency on the grounds of excessive use of money power. The poll panel is yet to announce a fresh date for elections in Vellore. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, several union ministers, Congress President Rahul Gandhi, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav are among key leaders who contested the polls.

Lok Sabha elections 2019: Counting to take place on Thursday, matching VVPAT slips likely to delay results

The Supreme Court on Tuesday dismissed a PIL seeking 100 per cent matching of voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) slips with electronic voting machines (EVMs) during the counting of votes on May 23 for Lok Sabha polls.

A vacation bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra refused to entertain the plea filed by a Chennai-based organisation 'Tech for All', saying that a larger bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had already dealt with the matter and passed an order.

"The CJI had dealt with this matter. Why are you taking chance before a two-judge vacation bench?" the Supreme Court asked.

"We cannot override the CJI's order... This is nonsense. The petition is taken on board. Dismissed," Justice Mishra said.

The Supreme Court had on May 7 dismissed a review plea filed by 21 opposition leaders, led by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, seeking that random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs be increased to 50 per cent.

The Supreme Court had on April 8 directed the Election Commission to increase random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs from one to five polling booths per assembly segment in Lok Sabha polls, saying it would provide greater satisfaction not just to political parties but also to the entire electorate.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday dismissed a PIL seeking 100 per cent matching of voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) slips with electronic voting machines (EVMs) during the counting of votes on May 23 for Lok Sabha polls.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday dismissed a PIL seeking 100 per cent matching of voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) slips with electronic voting machines (EVMs) during the counting of votes on May 23 for Lok Sabha polls. A vacation bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra refused to entertain the plea filed by a Chennai-based organisation 'Tech for All', saying that a larger bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had already dealt with the matter and passed an order. "The CJI had dealt with this matter. Why are you taking chance before a two-judge vacation bench?" the Supreme Court asked. "We cannot override the CJI's order... This is nonsense. The petition is taken on board. Dismissed," Justice Mishra said. The Supreme Court had on May 7 dismissed a review plea filed by 21 opposition leaders, led by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, seeking that random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs be increased to 50 per cent. The Supreme Court had on April 8 directed the Election Commission to increase random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs from one to five polling booths per assembly segment in Lok Sabha polls, saying it would provide greater satisfaction not just to political parties but also to the entire electorate.

Supreme Court junks PIL seeking 100% VVPAT matching with EVMs on May 23

Maharashtra BJP president Raosaheb Danve said the NDA would improve its 2014 tally in the state by winning 45 out of total 48 Lok Sabha seats.

The BJP and the Shiv Sena had jointly won 42 constituencies in 2014 elections.

"The BJP and the Shiv Sena had jointly won 42 seats in 2014 elections, but this time we will win 45 seats. Not a single seat we are going to lose which we had won in 2014," Danve said, adding that the Opposition parties would have to accept this fact.

He dismissed the exit poll prediction of the Sena facing any backlash in elections.

"Sena had won 18 seats in 2014 and was the biggest partner of BJP in the Centre. I do not think Sena will face any problem," he added.

The seven-phase elections to 542 seats of 543-member Lok Sabha ended Sunday. Counting of votes is scheduled for Thursday.

Most exit polls have forecast another term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with some of them projecting that the BJP-led NDA would get over 300 seats to comfortably cross the majority mark of 272 in the Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

Maharashtra BJP president Raosaheb Danve said the NDA would improve its 2014 tally in the state by winning 45 out of total 48 Lok Sabha seats. The BJP and the Shiv Sena had jointly won 42 constituencies in 2014 elections.

Maharashtra BJP president Raosaheb Danve said the NDA would improve its 2014 tally in the state by winning 45 out of total 48 Lok Sabha seats. The BJP and the Shiv Sena had jointly won 42 constituencies in 2014 elections. "The BJP and the Shiv Sena had jointly won 42 seats in 2014 elections, but this time we will win 45 seats. Not a single seat we are going to lose which we had won in 2014," Danve said, adding that the Opposition parties would have to accept this fact. He dismissed the exit poll prediction of the Sena facing any backlash in elections. "Sena had won 18 seats in 2014 and was the biggest partner of BJP in the Centre. I do not think Sena will face any problem," he added. The seven-phase elections to 542 seats of 543-member Lok Sabha ended Sunday. Counting of votes is scheduled for Thursday. Most exit polls have forecast another term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with some of them projecting that the BJP-led NDA would get over 300 seats to comfortably cross the majority mark of 272 in the Lok Sabha.

National Democratic Alliance will win 45 seats in Maharashtra, says state BJP chief

As many as 20 lakh security personnel were deployed in the seven-phase Lok Sabha polls, rendering the exercise bigger than India's well known 'Operation Brasstacks' in the 1980s, which was larger than any NATO exercise since World War-II, officials said Monday.

The 'Operation Brasstacks' was a major military exercise of the Indian Army in Rajasthan. It took place in 1986 until its execution in 1987.

The scale of the 2019 general election itself is massive and growing over time as between 1989 and 2019, the number of parties in the fray have increased over 20 times, the size of the electorate has increased by over 80 per cent, the number of polling stations has nearly doubled and the number of contesting candidates has increased by nearly 35 per cent.

"Effectively, nearly 20 lakh personnel of the police and central paramilitary personnel were involved during the elections. The mobilisation of such a large scale is rare anywhere in the world. In fact, India's best known Army exercise 'Operation Brasstacks' (1986-87), where nearly 6-8 lakh personnel were said to have been involved, itself was bigger than any NATO exercise since World War-II," a Home Ministry official said.

The extent of mobilisation of the security forces has also been massive with nearly 25 per cent of the overall strength of central paramilitary forces being deployed for elections this year, indicating the involvement of over three lakh paramilitary personnel.

However, since these officials are redeployed at various locations in different phases, the effective deployment is almost 2.35 times the number of troops actually involved.

Thus, if the elections in 2019 were to be conducted on a single day, the effective requirement would be for over 10 lakh personnel. Similarly, in the 2014 general election, the actual and effective deployments were of the order of 2.5 lakh and 6 lakh, respectively.

In addition to the paramilitary forces and state armed battalions, extensive participation of police personnel belonging to civil police and district armed reserve, along with home guards and special police officers in various capacities, have also been seen.

Even if the participation is taken at 50 per cent of actual strength, this would mean the involvement of nearly 8-10 lakh additional personnel, the official said.

Apart from the mammoth size of election-related mobilisation, the duration is also considerable. This year's general elections were conducted over a period of nearly 40 days (April 11 to May 19) with the counting of votes scheduled to take place on May 23.

Timely mobilisation of nearly 20 lakh personnel within 40 to 45 days is a humongous task. A well thought planning with the Indian Railways, state and various forces play a crucial role in completing the requirement of the Election Commission, another official said.

More than 150 special trains were utilised for mobilisation of troops. These troops criss-cross the length and breadth of the country to meet the requirement of the respective state, the official said.

The core duties of the paramilitary personnel deployed for election duty include instilling a sense of confidence and security among people to exercise their franchise freely without any fear.

The additional responsibilities include maintaining law and order, preventing poll violence and guarding the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).

The Election Commission, in coordination with the Home Ministry, which has the administrative control over the central paramilitary forces, has made an assessment of all aspects having bearing on the election process, including the state-wise and phase-wise requirement of security forces, the official said.

The ministry prepared a deployment plan of various forces like the CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP, SSB and the Assam Rifles keeping in view their role in border guarding, counter-insurgency operations and other commitments.

As many as 20 lakh security personnel were deployed in the seven-phase Lok Sabha polls, rendering the exercise bigger than India's well known 'Operation Brasstacks' in the 1980s, which was larger than any NATO exercise since World War-II, officials said Monday.

As many as 20 lakh security personnel were deployed in the seven-phase Lok Sabha polls, rendering the exercise bigger than India's well known 'Operation Brasstacks' in the 1980s, which was larger than any NATO exercise since World War-II, officials said Monday. The 'Operation Brasstacks' was a major military exercise of the Indian Army in Rajasthan. It took place in 1986 until its execution in 1987. The scale of the 2019 general election itself is massive and growing over time as between 1989 and 2019, the number of parties in the fray have increased over 20 times, the size of the electorate has increased by over 80 per cent, the number of polling stations has nearly doubled and the number of contesting candidates has increased by nearly 35 per cent. "Effectively, nearly 20 lakh personnel of the police and central paramilitary personnel were involved during the elections. The mobilisation of such a large scale is rare anywhere in the world. In fact, India's best known Army exercise 'Operation Brasstacks' (1986-87), where nearly 6-8 lakh personnel were said to have been involved, itself was bigger than any NATO exercise since World War-II," a Home Ministry official said. The extent of mobilisation of the security forces has also been massive with nearly 25 per cent of the overall strength of central paramilitary forces being deployed for elections this year, indicating the involvement of over three lakh paramilitary personnel. However, since these officials are redeployed at various locations in different phases, the effective deployment is almost 2.35 times the number of troops actually involved. Thus, if the elections in 2019 were to be conducted on a single day, the effective requirement would be for over 10 lakh personnel. Similarly, in the 2014 general election, the actual and effective deployments were of the order of 2.5 lakh and 6 lakh, respectively. In addition to the paramilitary forces and state armed battalions, extensive participation of police personnel belonging to civil police and district armed reserve, along with home guards and special police officers in various capacities, have also been seen. Even if the participation is taken at 50 per cent of actual strength, this would mean the involvement of nearly 8-10 lakh additional personnel, the official said. Apart from the mammoth size of election-related mobilisation, the duration is also considerable. This year's general elections were conducted over a period of nearly 40 days (April 11 to May 19) with the counting of votes scheduled to take place on May 23. Timely mobilisation of nearly 20 lakh personnel within 40 to 45 days is a humongous task. A well thought planning with the Indian Railways, state and various forces play a crucial role in completing the requirement of the Election Commission, another official said. More than 150 special trains were utilised for mobilisation of troops. These troops criss-cross the length and breadth of the country to meet the requirement of the respective state, the official said. The core duties of the paramilitary personnel deployed for election duty include instilling a sense of confidence and security among people to exercise their franchise freely without any fear. The additional responsibilities include maintaining law and order, preventing poll violence and guarding the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). The Election Commission, in coordination with the Home Ministry, which has the administrative control over the central paramilitary forces, has made an assessment of all aspects having bearing on the election process, including the state-wise and phase-wise requirement of security forces, the official said. The ministry prepared a deployment plan of various forces like the CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP, SSB and the Assam Rifles keeping in view their role in border guarding, counter-insurgency operations and other commitments.

20 lakh security men deployed in Lok Sabha polls, mobilisation was bigger than Army's 'Operation Brasstacks'

India on May 20 adopted a global resolution to redefine four of the seven base units — kilogramme, Kelvin, mole and ampere, a move expected to have far-reaching effects, including changes in textbooks.

A resolution to redefine four of the seven base units was passed by representatives of 60 countries at the General Conference on Weights and Measures (CGPM) of the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM), Paris on November 16 last year.

However, it has been implemented across the world on May 20 -- World Meteorology Day, Shekhar Mande, Director General of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), said.

Over 100 countries have adopted the metric system of measurements, also known as the International System of Units (SI), which has been in practice since 1889.

The other base units are -- second, metre and candela.

"The fundamental constants are invariants of time and space and have successfully replaced the artefact based units, and aptly opened up the new era for quantum world by linking all seven base units to fundamental constants or quantum standards," said K Aswal, Director of the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), one of the oldest scientific institutes in the country that also takes care of setting meteorology standards domestically.

The purpose of system units is to enable worldwide coherence of measurements. The International System of Units (SI) was formalised in 1960 and has been updated several times to account for development in measurement technology.

"Since the 1960s, we have to rely ever more heavily on advanced science and engineering in our day-to-day lives, and also in manufacturing, healthcare and science. The proposed changes in the unit definition have been designed to have no immediate consequences," he said.

"The unit redefinitions represent a profound change of perspective and they are expected to form the foundations of improved measurements for decades to come as science and technology continues to develop in a way we cannot currently foresee," Aswal said, however, this "may not change anything drastically", but it will matter when it comes to measurements less than a kilogramme. For instance, measuring smaller diamonds.

The NPL has also sent recommendations on the proposed changes to be incorporated in the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) to implement them in contemporary education, he said. 
Recommendations on the proposed changes have also been sent to the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), National Institutes of Technology (NITs), and other academic institutes to be incorporated in syllabi of metrology courses in graduate engineering and academic courses.&nbsp;

India on May 20 adopted a global resolution to redefine four of the seven base units — kilogramme, Kelvin, mole and ampere, a move expected to have far-reaching effects, including changes in textbooks.

India on May 20 adopted a global resolution to redefine four of the seven base units — kilogramme, Kelvin, mole and ampere, a move expected to have far-reaching effects, including changes in textbooks. A resolution to redefine four of the seven base units was passed by representatives of 60 countries at the General Conference on Weights and Measures (CGPM) of the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM), Paris on November 16 last year. However, it has been implemented across the world on May 20 -- World Meteorology Day, Shekhar Mande, Director General of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), said. Over 100 countries have adopted the metric system of measurements, also known as the International System of Units (SI), which has been in practice since 1889. The other base units are -- second, metre and candela. "The fundamental constants are invariants of time and space and have successfully replaced the artefact based units, and aptly opened up the new era for quantum world by linking all seven base units to fundamental constants or quantum standards," said K Aswal, Director of the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), one of the oldest scientific institutes in the country that also takes care of setting meteorology standards domestically. The purpose of system units is to enable worldwide coherence of measurements. The International System of Units (SI) was formalised in 1960 and has been updated several times to account for development in measurement technology. "Since the 1960s, we have to rely ever more heavily on advanced science and engineering in our day-to-day lives, and also in manufacturing, healthcare and science. The proposed changes in the unit definition have been designed to have no immediate consequences," he said. "The unit redefinitions represent a profound change of perspective and they are expected to form the foundations of improved measurements for decades to come as science and technology continues to develop in a way we cannot currently foresee," Aswal said, however, this "may not change anything drastically", but it will matter when it comes to measurements less than a kilogramme. For instance, measuring smaller diamonds. The NPL has also sent recommendations on the proposed changes to be incorporated in the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) to implement them in contemporary education, he said. Recommendations on the proposed changes have also been sent to the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), National Institutes of Technology (NITs), and other academic institutes to be incorporated in syllabi of metrology courses in graduate engineering and academic courses.

India adopts new standards for measuring units kilogram, kelvin, mole & ampere

With exit polls forecasting NDA's return to power, top leaders of the BJP-led alliance will meet Today over dinner to be hosted by party president Amit Shah where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to be present, party sources said.

Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and Lok Janshakti Party head Ram Vilas Paswan are likely to attend the meeting, which will take place two days before the counting of votes for the Lok Sabha polls on May 23.

A meeting of key BJP leaders, including Union Ministers and Modi, is also scheduled to be held in the party headquarters before the dinner meeting with allies.

The BJP's decision to host the dinner comes following the exit polls which have been unanimous in projecting another term for Modi.

Modi and Shah at a press conference on May 17 had exuded confidence that the saffron party-led alliance will return to power, and exit polls have furthered boosted their hopes.

Exit polls telecast by almost all major news channels have forecast that the BJP-led NDA will cross the majority mark of 272 in the 543-member Lok Sabha.

Polls have been held for 542 seats as the Election Commission had deferred the election for Vellore seat due to allegations of the use of money to influence the voting.

Several BJP leaders asserted on Monday that the party will get a majority on its own, repeating the unprecedented feat it achieved in 2014 by winning 282 seats.

With exit polls forecasting NDA's return to power, top leaders of the BJP-led alliance will meet Today over dinner to be hosted by party president Amit Shah where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to be present, party sources said.

With exit polls forecasting NDA's return to power, top leaders of the BJP-led alliance will meet Today over dinner to be hosted by party president Amit Shah where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to be present, party sources said. Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and Lok Janshakti Party head Ram Vilas Paswan are likely to attend the meeting, which will take place two days before the counting of votes for the Lok Sabha polls on May 23. A meeting of key BJP leaders, including Union Ministers and Modi, is also scheduled to be held in the party headquarters before the dinner meeting with allies. The BJP's decision to host the dinner comes following the exit polls which have been unanimous in projecting another term for Modi. Modi and Shah at a press conference on May 17 had exuded confidence that the saffron party-led alliance will return to power, and exit polls have furthered boosted their hopes. Exit polls telecast by almost all major news channels have forecast that the BJP-led NDA will cross the majority mark of 272 in the 543-member Lok Sabha. Polls have been held for 542 seats as the Election Commission had deferred the election for Vellore seat due to allegations of the use of money to influence the voting. Several BJP leaders asserted on Monday that the party will get a majority on its own, repeating the unprecedented feat it achieved in 2014 by winning 282 seats.

National Democratic Alliance leaders to meet today to chalk out strategy on outcome of polls

The National Commission for Women (NCW) on Monday took cognizance of actor <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/vivek-oberoi-to-be-issued-a-notice-by-womens-commission-over-offensive-meme-on-aishwarya-rai-bachchan-220160">Vivek Oberoi's tweet on exit polls</a> and issued a notice to him demanding an explanation over his post.

Rekha Sharma, NCW chairperson told media that the Commission would like Oberoi to apologise on social media and personally also to the person concerned and if not done, legal action will follow.&nbsp;

"We would like him to apologise on social media and personally also to the person concerned. If he doesn't do, we will see what legal action can we take against him. We will be talking to Twitter to remove that tweet immediately," Sharma told media.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Vijaya Rahatkar, Chief of Maharashtra State Commission for Women said that the Commission has taken note of the incident and will soon issue a notice to the Bollywood actor.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Rekha Sharma, NCW chairperson: We would like him (Vivek Oberoi) to apologise on social media &amp; personally also to the person concerned. If he doesn't do, we will see what legal action can we take against him. We will be talking to Twitter to remove that tweet immediately. <a href="https://t.co/h6st5jgbqQ">pic.twitter.com/h6st5jgbqQ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1130467939310886917?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Oberoi, on Monday, got criticized for posting a distasteful meme featuring Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. The meme compared the former beauty queen's various relationships with the various stages of elections and featured the actress with her former boyfriends Salman Khan, Oberoi and her husband Abhishek Bachchan with daughter Aradhya.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Haha! 👍 creative! No politics here....just life 🙏😃 
 
Credits : <a href="https://twitter.com/pavansingh1985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@pavansingh1985</a> <a href="https://t.co/1rPbbXZU8T">pic.twitter.com/1rPbbXZU8T</a>
— Vivek Anand Oberoi (@vivekoberoi) <a href="https://twitter.com/vivekoberoi/status/1130380916142907392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In the tweet, Vivek wrote, “Haha! creative! No politics here... just life.” Here, take a look".

The Twitterati didn't bat an eye in slamming Oberoi for his inappropriate humour.&nbsp;

The actor had dated Aishwarya Rai Bachchan briefly years back before the couple broke up. Oberoi married Priyanka Alva while Rai tied the knot with actor Abhishek Bachchan.&nbsp;

Oberoi's tweet came in the wake of various exit polls predicting a thumping majority for the Bharatiya Janata Party-led NDA in the Lok Sabha 2019 polls.&nbsp;

Pollsters predicted the BJP to make a clean sweet in the Hindi heartland of the nation in states like Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, Rajasthan, Gujarat and the national capital.&nbsp;

The results of the seven-phase polls will come out Thursday. 
&nbsp;

The National Commission for Women (NCW) on Monday took cognizance of actor Vivek Oberoi's tweet on exit polls and issued a notice to him demanding an explanation over his post.

The National Commission for Women (NCW) on Monday took cognizance of actor Vivek Oberoi's tweet on exit polls and issued a notice to him demanding an explanation over his post. Rekha Sharma, NCW chairperson told media that the Commission would like Oberoi to apologise on social media and personally also to the person concerned and if not done, legal action will follow. "We would like him to apologise on social media and personally also to the person concerned. If he doesn't do, we will see what legal action can we take against him. We will be talking to Twitter to remove that tweet immediately," Sharma told media. Earlier in the day, Vijaya Rahatkar, Chief of Maharashtra State Commission for Women said that the Commission has taken note of the incident and will soon issue a notice to the Bollywood actor. Rekha Sharma, NCW chairperson: We would like him (Vivek Oberoi) to apologise on social media & personally also to the person concerned. If he doesn't do, we will see what legal action can we take against him. We will be talking to Twitter to remove that tweet immediately. pic.twitter.com/h6st5jgbqQ — ANI (@ANI) May 20, 2019 × Oberoi, on Monday, got criticized for posting a distasteful meme featuring Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. The meme compared the former beauty queen's various relationships with the various stages of elections and featured the actress with her former boyfriends Salman Khan, Oberoi and her husband Abhishek Bachchan with daughter Aradhya. Haha! 👍 creative! No politics here....just life 🙏😃 Credits : @pavansingh1985 pic.twitter.com/1rPbbXZU8T — Vivek Anand Oberoi (@vivekoberoi) May 20, 2019 × In the tweet, Vivek wrote, “Haha! creative! No politics here... just life.” Here, take a look". The Twitterati didn't bat an eye in slamming Oberoi for his inappropriate humour. The actor had dated Aishwarya Rai Bachchan briefly years back before the couple broke up. Oberoi married Priyanka Alva while Rai tied the knot with actor Abhishek Bachchan. Oberoi's tweet came in the wake of various exit polls predicting a thumping majority for the Bharatiya Janata Party-led NDA in the Lok Sabha 2019 polls. Pollsters predicted the BJP to make a clean sweet in the Hindi heartland of the nation in states like Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, Rajasthan, Gujarat and the national capital. The results of the seven-phase polls will come out Thursday.

National Commission for Women issues notice to Vivek Oberoi over offensive meme on Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

The Election Commission on Monday clamped prohibitory orders in Bhatpara in North 24 Parganas district, following violence in the area during the assembly by-election on Sunday, a senior official said. Keeping in mind the “sensitive” situation in Bhatpara, it was decided to impose Section 144 of the CrPC, the EC official told reporters here.

The commission had sought a report from the district magistrate on Sunday’s poll-related violence in Bhatpara. “Going by the report of the DM, Section 144 was clamped. It will prohibit an assembly of five or more people. Our security forces are posted in the area and we are keeping a tab on the situation,” he said.

Madan Mitra, the TMC candidate for the Bhatpara assembly constituency, on Monday, visited the EC office, accusing BJP leader Arjun Singh of “using force” to stop him from entering the town. The former state transport minister, who is pitched against Singh’s son Pawan, also said that if he was not allowed to enter Bhatpara on Tuesday, he would start a “satyagraha” (protest).

Bhatpara, considered to be the stronghold of former TMC MLA Arjun Singh, turned into a virtual battle zone on Sunday when the by-election was underway, with BJP and TMC activists allegedly clashing with each other in Kankinara under the Bhatpara Assembly constituency. Bombs were also reportedly hurled and an office of the ruling TMC in Kankinara was set on fire, as central forces restored to lathi-charge to bring the situation under control.

The violence caused injury to 14 people, damaged shops and houses, and left Mitra’s car vandalised, police said. Meanwhile, around 200 companies of central forces would continue to remain in West Bengal till May 27 in the wake of possible post-poll violence in the state, officials said. “Steps have been taken to guard the strongroom where the EVMs and the VVPATs are kept. The number of observers who will keep a tab on the counting process on May 23, has also been increased,” an EC source said.

The Election Commission on Monday clamped prohibitory orders in Bhatpara in North 24 Parganas district, following violence in the area during the assembly by-election on Sunday, a senior official said.

The Election Commission on Monday clamped prohibitory orders in Bhatpara in North 24 Parganas district, following violence in the area during the assembly by-election on Sunday, a senior official said. Keeping in mind the “sensitive” situation in Bhatpara, it was decided to impose Section 144 of the CrPC, the EC official told reporters here. The commission had sought a report from the district magistrate on Sunday’s poll-related violence in Bhatpara. “Going by the report of the DM, Section 144 was clamped. It will prohibit an assembly of five or more people. Our security forces are posted in the area and we are keeping a tab on the situation,” he said. Madan Mitra, the TMC candidate for the Bhatpara assembly constituency, on Monday, visited the EC office, accusing BJP leader Arjun Singh of “using force” to stop him from entering the town. The former state transport minister, who is pitched against Singh’s son Pawan, also said that if he was not allowed to enter Bhatpara on Tuesday, he would start a “satyagraha” (protest). Bhatpara, considered to be the stronghold of former TMC MLA Arjun Singh, turned into a virtual battle zone on Sunday when the by-election was underway, with BJP and TMC activists allegedly clashing with each other in Kankinara under the Bhatpara Assembly constituency. Bombs were also reportedly hurled and an office of the ruling TMC in Kankinara was set on fire, as central forces restored to lathi-charge to bring the situation under control. The violence caused injury to 14 people, damaged shops and houses, and left Mitra’s car vandalised, police said. Meanwhile, around 200 companies of central forces would continue to remain in West Bengal till May 27 in the wake of possible post-poll violence in the state, officials said. “Steps have been taken to guard the strongroom where the EVMs and the VVPATs are kept. The number of observers who will keep a tab on the counting process on May 23, has also been increased,” an EC source said.

Election Commission imposes prohibitory orders in ‘sensitive’ Bhatpara after violence during assembly by-election

The Supreme Court Tuesday dismissed a PIL seeking 100 per cent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/what-happens-if-the-vvpat-count-doesnt-match-the-evm-count-218276">matching of Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips with Electronic Voting Machines</a> (EVMs) during the counting of votes on May 23 for Lok Sabha polls.

A vacation bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra refused to entertain the plea filed by a Chennai-based organisation 'Tech 4 All', saying that a larger bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had already dealt with the matter and passed an order.

"The CJI had dealt with this matter. Why are you taking chance before a two-judge vacation bench," the apex court asked.

"We cannot override the CJI's order... This is nonsense. The petition is taken on board. Dismissed," Justice Mishra said.

The apex court had on May 7 dismissed a review plea filed by 21 Opposition leaders led by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu seeking that random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs be increased to 50 per cent.

The top court had on April 8 directed the Election Commission to increase random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs from one to five polling booths per assembly segment in Lok Sabha polls, saying it would provide greater satisfaction not just to political parties but also to the entire electorate.

The plea filed by the Chennai-based organisation said that the model of EVMs employed for the 2019 Lok Shaba Elections are being used for the first time and there have been reports about malfunctioning of EVMs throughout the country.&nbsp;

"It is reported that till the third phase of Lok Shaba Election 2019, 49 out of 303 constituencies, that is 1/6th of constituencies suffered due to EVM malfunctioning," the plea said.

It gave examples of the states of Odisha and Goa where malfunctioning of EVMs and VVPATs were detected.

The plea said that in Odisha, the VVPAT machine meant for Parliamentary constituency was mistakenly attached to the Control unit and Ballot unit meant for Assembly constituency and the mistake was detected after 22 votes were casted in the newly replaced VVPAT.&nbsp;

"This is because the pairing was done wrongly. This clearly proves that the M3 controlling unit is technologically incapable of identifying its pair accepting and feeding any pair connected to it," the plea said.

It also said that during mocks polls in Goa, the entire set of EVM was replaced after complaints from one of the booth agents.

The plea said that as a "short term solution" to achieve total satisfaction among the electorate the number of machines subject to verification of VVPAT should be "increased to 100 per cent".

"As technocrats, we submit, in the long term the EVM should be replaced by Optical Ballot Scan machine which upholds the Tangible secret ballot system, verifiable even by a common man coupled with cost-effectiveness," the plea said.

The Supreme Court Tuesday dismissed a PIL seeking 100 per cent matching of Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) during the counting of votes on May 23 for Lok Sabha polls.

The Supreme Court Tuesday dismissed a PIL seeking 100 per cent matching of Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) during the counting of votes on May 23 for Lok Sabha polls. A vacation bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra refused to entertain the plea filed by a Chennai-based organisation 'Tech 4 All', saying that a larger bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had already dealt with the matter and passed an order. "The CJI had dealt with this matter. Why are you taking chance before a two-judge vacation bench," the apex court asked. "We cannot override the CJI's order... This is nonsense. The petition is taken on board. Dismissed," Justice Mishra said. The apex court had on May 7 dismissed a review plea filed by 21 Opposition leaders led by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu seeking that random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs be increased to 50 per cent. The top court had on April 8 directed the Election Commission to increase random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs from one to five polling booths per assembly segment in Lok Sabha polls, saying it would provide greater satisfaction not just to political parties but also to the entire electorate. The plea filed by the Chennai-based organisation said that the model of EVMs employed for the 2019 Lok Shaba Elections are being used for the first time and there have been reports about malfunctioning of EVMs throughout the country. "It is reported that till the third phase of Lok Shaba Election 2019, 49 out of 303 constituencies, that is 1/6th of constituencies suffered due to EVM malfunctioning," the plea said. It gave examples of the states of Odisha and Goa where malfunctioning of EVMs and VVPATs were detected. The plea said that in Odisha, the VVPAT machine meant for Parliamentary constituency was mistakenly attached to the Control unit and Ballot unit meant for Assembly constituency and the mistake was detected after 22 votes were casted in the newly replaced VVPAT. "This is because the pairing was done wrongly. This clearly proves that the M3 controlling unit is technologically incapable of identifying its pair accepting and feeding any pair connected to it," the plea said. It also said that during mocks polls in Goa, the entire set of EVM was replaced after complaints from one of the booth agents. The plea said that as a "short term solution" to achieve total satisfaction among the electorate the number of machines subject to verification of VVPAT should be "increased to 100 per cent". "As technocrats, we submit, in the long term the EVM should be replaced by Optical Ballot Scan machine which upholds the Tangible secret ballot system, verifiable even by a common man coupled with cost-effectiveness," the plea said.

'This is nonsense,' says Supreme Court dismissing PIL seeking 100% VVPAT verification

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will be attending the dinner hosted by Bharatiya Janata Party chief Amit Shah for NDA leaders on Tuesday. Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar will also be attending the dinner today.&nbsp;

Other leaders who are likely to be present at the dinner tonight include Lok Jan Shakti Party chief Ram Vilas Paswan and AIADMK leaders EK Palaniswamy and O Pannerselvam.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Delhi: Shiv Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray to attend dinner hosted by Amit Shah for NDA leaders today (file pics) <a href="https://t.co/Kj3zzrbPJp">pic.twitter.com/Kj3zzrbPJp</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1130768935618355200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The dinner is being hosted by the BJP chief for NDA allies in the national capital as a strategy session before the official results are declared on May 23.&nbsp;

The development comes just a couple of days after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/exit-polls-2019-pm-modi-returning-to-power-with-300-plus-seats-say-pollsters-219927">exit polls predicted</a> a landslide victory for the Bharatiya Janata Party in the Lok Sabha polls 2019. &nbsp;

Pollsters predicted the BJP and its allies to get a comfortable majority in the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

The opposition parties dubbed the exit polls as wrong.&nbsp;

The seven-phased Lok Sabha polls were conducted from Aprill 11 to May 19. As many as 542 seats went to polls.

The counting of votes will be held on May 23, the result will be declared subsequently on the same day.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will be attending the dinner hosted by Bharatiya Janata Party chief Amit Shah for NDA leaders on Tuesday. Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar will also be attending the dinner today.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will be attending the dinner hosted by Bharatiya Janata Party chief Amit Shah for NDA leaders on Tuesday. Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar will also be attending the dinner today. Other leaders who are likely to be present at the dinner tonight include Lok Jan Shakti Party chief Ram Vilas Paswan and AIADMK leaders EK Palaniswamy and O Pannerselvam. Delhi: Shiv Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray to attend dinner hosted by Amit Shah for NDA leaders today (file pics) pic.twitter.com/Kj3zzrbPJp — ANI (@ANI) May 21, 2019 × The dinner is being hosted by the BJP chief for NDA allies in the national capital as a strategy session before the official results are declared on May 23. The development comes just a couple of days after the exit polls predicted a landslide victory for the Bharatiya Janata Party in the Lok Sabha polls 2019. Pollsters predicted the BJP and its allies to get a comfortable majority in the Lok Sabha elections. The opposition parties dubbed the exit polls as wrong. The seven-phased Lok Sabha polls were conducted from Aprill 11 to May 19. As many as 542 seats went to polls. The counting of votes will be held on May 23, the result will be declared subsequently on the same day.

Amit Shah to hold dinner for NDA allies today; Uddhav Thackeray, Nitish Kumar, Paswan to attend

Poland's Ambassador to India Professor Adam Burakowski has said that the new Indian government should be even more open to the world especially Europe and Poland. In a candid interview to WION, he spoke about several issues regarding India-Poland ties,&nbsp;trade, terror and how India saved more than 1000 Polish children in World War II.

WION: How do you see India, Poland ties?

Professor Adam Burakowski: The relations between India and Poland are growing. This year in September we will have the historical movement of reopening the direct flight between Delhi and Warsaw. After 25 years, we are reconnecting out capitals. Also, our economic ties are growing. We have reached $3 billion mutual yearly exchange. Indian community in Poland is growing especially the students. We have around 4000 students from India studying in Polish universities.&nbsp;

WION: How have been the trade ties?

Professor Adam Burakowski: There are still some fields of possible cooperation that have potential. Our IT companies are investing in India. Two leading polish companies are working in India. Also, our other companies have invested in India and reaching new markets. This mutual exchange is growing fast.

WION: Expectations from the new Indian government?

Professor Adam Burakowski: I hope the new government will be even more open to the international world including Europe and Poland. Poland is a member of the European Union for 15 years. The country has a good environment for Indian companies to invest in. If you invest in Poland you will have access to all the European Union market.

WION: Terror has been a major issue. Europe has been a major target for terror networks. How do you plan to deal with the scourge?

Professor Adam Burakowski: Fortunately, Poland hasn't been the target of any terrorist attack in recent years. But we are preparing ourselves and our security forces are aware of the threat. We would like to cooperate with every country that has anti-terrorism on its agenda and India is one of them.

WION: Can you shed some light&nbsp;on the historic ties between the two countries and how India helped Poland in World War II?

Professor Adam Burakowski: Poland and India both have been always friendly towards each other. In 19th centuries, our countries were occupied by foreign powers so we share a common experience. In World War II India welcomed a big number of Polish refugees in camps. One was in Balachadi near Jamnagar, the local maharaja hosted 1000 polish children. And second was in Valivade, Kolhapur, the Maharaja also contributed in sheltering 5000 polish children in the world war. We established ties in 1954.

Poland's Ambassador to India Professor Adam Burakowski has said that the new Indian government should be even more open to the world especially Europe and Poland.

Poland's Ambassador to India Professor Adam Burakowski has said that the new Indian government should be even more open to the world especially Europe and Poland. In a candid interview to WION, he spoke about several issues regarding India-Poland ties, trade, terror and how India saved more than 1000 Polish children in World War II. WION: How do you see India, Poland ties? Professor Adam Burakowski: The relations between India and Poland are growing. This year in September we will have the historical movement of reopening the direct flight between Delhi and Warsaw. After 25 years, we are reconnecting out capitals. Also, our economic ties are growing. We have reached $3 billion mutual yearly exchange. Indian community in Poland is growing especially the students. We have around 4000 students from India studying in Polish universities. WION: How have been the trade ties? Professor Adam Burakowski: There are still some fields of possible cooperation that have potential. Our IT companies are investing in India. Two leading polish companies are working in India. Also, our other companies have invested in India and reaching new markets. This mutual exchange is growing fast. WION: Expectations from the new Indian government? Professor Adam Burakowski: I hope the new government will be even more open to the international world including Europe and Poland. Poland is a member of the European Union for 15 years. The country has a good environment for Indian companies to invest in. If you invest in Poland you will have access to all the European Union market. WION: Terror has been a major issue. Europe has been a major target for terror networks. How do you plan to deal with the scourge? Professor Adam Burakowski: Fortunately, Poland hasn't been the target of any terrorist attack in recent years. But we are preparing ourselves and our security forces are aware of the threat. We would like to cooperate with every country that has anti-terrorism on its agenda and India is one of them. WION: Can you shed some light on the historic ties between the two countries and how India helped Poland in World War II? Professor Adam Burakowski: Poland and India both have been always friendly towards each other. In 19th centuries, our countries were occupied by foreign powers so we share a common experience. In World War II India welcomed a big number of Polish refugees in camps. One was in Balachadi near Jamnagar, the local maharaja hosted 1000 polish children. And second was in Valivade, Kolhapur, the Maharaja also contributed in sheltering 5000 polish children in the world war. We established ties in 1954.

Hope new Indian government will be even more open to world especially Poland: Polish envoy

At a time when the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/notwithstanding-exit-polls-opposition-leaders-set-to-meet-tomorrow-220222">Election Commission</a> is under fire from opposition parties for being biased, former president Pranab Mukherjee on Monday lauded the role of the poll panel saying the 2019 Lok Sabha polls were conducted "perfectly".

Speaking at a book launch event here, he said that right from the first election commissioner Sukumar Sen to the present election commissioners, the institution is working very well.

He said all the three commissioners are appointed by the executive and they are doing their job well.

Mukherjee said, "you cannot criticise them, it was perfect conduct of elections".

"If democracy has succeeded, it is largely due to perfect conduct of elections by election commissioners starting from Sukumar Sen to the present election commissioners," Mukherjee said at the launch of the book 'Defining India: Through Their Eyes' by NDTV's Sonia Singh.

His remarks come a day after Congress president Rahul Gandhi alleged that the Election Commission's "capitulation" before Prime Minister Narendra Modi is obvious and the poll watchdog is not feared and respected anymore.

The EC has been criticised by the opposition parties for being allegedly biased towards the BJP.

The opposition stepped up its criticism of the poll panel after Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa wrote to the Chief Election Commissioner stating he will be recusing himself from EC meetings as his dissent was not being recorded on clearances given by the poll panel to the PM and BJP chief Amit Shah over alleged poll code violations.&nbsp;

At a time when the Election Commission is under fire from opposition parties for being biased, former president Pranab Mukherjee on Monday lauded the role of the poll panel saying the 2019 Lok Sabha polls were conducted "perfectly".

At a time when the Election Commission is under fire from opposition parties for being biased, former president Pranab Mukherjee on Monday lauded the role of the poll panel saying the 2019 Lok Sabha polls were conducted "perfectly". Speaking at a book launch event here, he said that right from the first election commissioner Sukumar Sen to the present election commissioners, the institution is working very well. He said all the three commissioners are appointed by the executive and they are doing their job well. Mukherjee said, "you cannot criticise them, it was perfect conduct of elections". "If democracy has succeeded, it is largely due to perfect conduct of elections by election commissioners starting from Sukumar Sen to the present election commissioners," Mukherjee said at the launch of the book 'Defining India: Through Their Eyes' by NDTV's Sonia Singh. His remarks come a day after Congress president Rahul Gandhi alleged that the Election Commission's "capitulation" before Prime Minister Narendra Modi is obvious and the poll watchdog is not feared and respected anymore. The EC has been criticised by the opposition parties for being allegedly biased towards the BJP. The opposition stepped up its criticism of the poll panel after Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa wrote to the Chief Election Commissioner stating he will be recusing himself from EC meetings as his dissent was not being recorded on clearances given by the poll panel to the PM and BJP chief Amit Shah over alleged poll code violations.

Former president Pranab Mukherjee hails Election Commission, says polls were conducted 'perfectly'

Top opposition leaders will meet in the national capital Tuesday to discuss the possibility of a non-NDA alliance staking claim to government formation and also move the Election Commission to press for their demand of tallying paper trail of votes (VVPATs) with electronic voting machine (EVM) figures.

According to sources, leaders of opposition parties such as the Congress, TDP, Left parties, BSP, NCP and TMC will informally meet to discuss the way forward in case the NDA fails to get to the majority mark.

Ahmed Patel and Ghulam Nabi Azad of the Congress, Sharad Pawar of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), TDP's Chandrababu Naidu, Satish Chandra Misra of the BSP, Sitaram Yechury of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), D Raja of the Communist Party of India (CPI) and Derek O'Brien of the TMC are expected to take part in Tuesday's meeting among others.

Notwithstanding exit polls that have predicted a majority for the BJP-led NDA, the opposition is going ahead with its strategy as most parties have trashed the forecast and claimed that the NDA would not get a majority in the Lok Sabha.

Opposition leaders are citing previous examples when exit polls were proved wrong, as also elsewhere in the world like the surprise result in Australia.

As part of his efforts to unite the opposition, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP leader Naidu held a meeting on Monday with his West Bengal counterpart, Mamata Banerjee, at her Kolkata residence on forming a non-BJP government at the Centre in case of a hung verdict.

Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav also telephoned Banerjee on Monday and discussed the strategy of the "Mahagathbandhan", sources said.

Naidu has been moving around across the country and has held several rounds of discussions with top opposition leaders in a bid to unite them and form an alliance to stake claim to form the next government in case the NDA falls short of the majority mark.

On Sunday, Naidu met UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi separately in New Delhi, besides NCP supremo Pawar. 
Akhilesh and Mayawati also held a meeting on Monday and discussed their strategy going forward.

However, in view of the exit polls, the opposition has turned a bit cautious and decided not to hold any formal meetings.

Sources said the opposition strategy was to procure letters of support from various parties and in case of a hung verdict, to present the same before the president to stake claim to form the government.

They added that the opposition did not want to leave anything to chance and did not wish to waste any time in staking a claim for government formation and thus, was putting its house in order.

Opposition parties will also be meeting the Election Commission and demand tallying of VVPAT slips with EVM figures in an entire Assembly constituency in case a discrepancy is found in any polling booth.

The Supreme Court has asked the EC to tally the VVPAT slips with the EVM figures of five polling stations in each Assembly constituency across the country, which may delay the results.

In another related development, the apex court Tuesday dismissed a PIL seeking 100 per cent matching of Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) during the counting of votes on May 23 for Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;

Top opposition leaders will meet in the national capital Tuesday to discuss the possibility of a non-NDA alliance staking claim to government formation and also move the Election Commission to press for their demand of tallying paper trail of votes (VVPATs) with electronic voting machine (EVM) figures.

Top opposition leaders will meet in the national capital Tuesday to discuss the possibility of a non-NDA alliance staking claim to government formation and also move the Election Commission to press for their demand of tallying paper trail of votes (VVPATs) with electronic voting machine (EVM) figures. According to sources, leaders of opposition parties such as the Congress, TDP, Left parties, BSP, NCP and TMC will informally meet to discuss the way forward in case the NDA fails to get to the majority mark. Ahmed Patel and Ghulam Nabi Azad of the Congress, Sharad Pawar of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), TDP's Chandrababu Naidu, Satish Chandra Misra of the BSP, Sitaram Yechury of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), D Raja of the Communist Party of India (CPI) and Derek O'Brien of the TMC are expected to take part in Tuesday's meeting among others. Notwithstanding exit polls that have predicted a majority for the BJP-led NDA, the opposition is going ahead with its strategy as most parties have trashed the forecast and claimed that the NDA would not get a majority in the Lok Sabha. Opposition leaders are citing previous examples when exit polls were proved wrong, as also elsewhere in the world like the surprise result in Australia. As part of his efforts to unite the opposition, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP leader Naidu held a meeting on Monday with his West Bengal counterpart, Mamata Banerjee, at her Kolkata residence on forming a non-BJP government at the Centre in case of a hung verdict. Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav also telephoned Banerjee on Monday and discussed the strategy of the "Mahagathbandhan", sources said. Naidu has been moving around across the country and has held several rounds of discussions with top opposition leaders in a bid to unite them and form an alliance to stake claim to form the next government in case the NDA falls short of the majority mark. On Sunday, Naidu met UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi separately in New Delhi, besides NCP supremo Pawar. Akhilesh and Mayawati also held a meeting on Monday and discussed their strategy going forward. However, in view of the exit polls, the opposition has turned a bit cautious and decided not to hold any formal meetings. Sources said the opposition strategy was to procure letters of support from various parties and in case of a hung verdict, to present the same before the president to stake claim to form the government. They added that the opposition did not want to leave anything to chance and did not wish to waste any time in staking a claim for government formation and thus, was putting its house in order. Opposition parties will also be meeting the Election Commission and demand tallying of VVPAT slips with EVM figures in an entire Assembly constituency in case a discrepancy is found in any polling booth. The Supreme Court has asked the EC to tally the VVPAT slips with the EVM figures of five polling stations in each Assembly constituency across the country, which may delay the results. In another related development, the apex court Tuesday dismissed a PIL seeking 100 per cent matching of Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) during the counting of votes on May 23 for Lok Sabha polls.

Notwithstanding exit polls, opposition leaders set to meet, also to move Election Commission over VVPATs

Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik on Monday dismissed Uttar Pradesh Minister Om Prakash Rajbhar from his ministerial position on the recommendation of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

Five other leaders of the Suheldev Bhartiya Samaj Party (SBSP), who were holding ministerial ranks in commissions, have also been removed with immediate effect.

Om Prakash Rajbhar was holding the post of Minister for Backward Class Welfare and 'Divyangjan' Empowerment in Uttar Pradesh government.

This comes after Adityanath earlier today wrote to state governor Ram Naik requesting him to immediately dismiss Rajbhar from the state cabinet.&nbsp;

Rajbhar had earlier resigned from the Cabinet but his resignation was not accepted.

On May 1, Rajbhar had stated that he has resigned as a cabinet minister from the state government over the seat-sharing agreement with the BJP.

"I had resigned on the night of April 13 from the post of state minister when they (BJP) said that you have to contest on our symbol. I told them I will contest from only one seat but from my own party. However, they did not agree to that either. Following which, I immediately resigned but they did not accept my resignation," Rajbhar had said back then.

SBSP is an ally of the BJP since 2017. Earlier on April 16, Rajbhar had announced that his party will go 'solo' in the ensuing Lok Sabha polls. He had alleged that the BJP wanted to "eliminate" the SBSP as it did not give them a single ticket.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik on Monday dismissed Uttar Pradesh Minister Om Prakash Rajbhar from his ministerial position on the recommendation of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik on Monday dismissed Uttar Pradesh Minister Om Prakash Rajbhar from his ministerial position on the recommendation of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Five other leaders of the Suheldev Bhartiya Samaj Party (SBSP), who were holding ministerial ranks in commissions, have also been removed with immediate effect. Om Prakash Rajbhar was holding the post of Minister for Backward Class Welfare and 'Divyangjan' Empowerment in Uttar Pradesh government. This comes after Adityanath earlier today wrote to state governor Ram Naik requesting him to immediately dismiss Rajbhar from the state cabinet. Rajbhar had earlier resigned from the Cabinet but his resignation was not accepted. On May 1, Rajbhar had stated that he has resigned as a cabinet minister from the state government over the seat-sharing agreement with the BJP. "I had resigned on the night of April 13 from the post of state minister when they (BJP) said that you have to contest on our symbol. I told them I will contest from only one seat but from my own party. However, they did not agree to that either. Following which, I immediately resigned but they did not accept my resignation," Rajbhar had said back then. SBSP is an ally of the BJP since 2017. Earlier on April 16, Rajbhar had announced that his party will go 'solo' in the ensuing Lok Sabha polls. He had alleged that the BJP wanted to "eliminate" the SBSP as it did not give them a single ticket. (With inputs from agencies)

Uttar Pradesh: Governor Ram Naik dismisses Om Prakash Rajbhar from Cabinet on chief ministers Yogi Adityanath's request

Domestic stock markets opened higher on Monday after exit polls of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/exit-polls-2019-pm-modi-returning-to-power-with-300-plus-seats-say-pollsters-219927">2019 Lok Sabha elections</a> projected BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) to win a comfortable majority.&nbsp;

At 10:30 AM, the S&amp;P BSE Sensex had gained a whopping 972.43 points, or 2.55 per cent, to trade at 38,903.31 levels, with Maruti, State Bank of India, Larsen &amp; Toubro, ICICI Bank, and Reliance Industries among the top gainers. The broader Nifty50, had gained 285.05 points, or 2.49 per cent, to trade at 11,691.

The exit polls are predicting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA is coming back to power at the Centre with close to 300 seats.

The Indian rupee also gained in the early trade on Monday. It opened higher by 73 paise at 69.49 per dollar on Monday versus previous close 70.22.

Wall Street ended lower on Friday as continuing trade tensions pulled industrial and tech shares down, and the Dow capped a fourth straight week of losses in its longest weekly losing streak in three years. 
 
Exit polls have been used for years to provide the pulse of India's political climate once voting is over. They try to give a sense of how voters may have exercised their franchise and which political party or alliance of parties stand the best chance of forming the next government.

Domestic stock markets opened higher on Monday after exit polls of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections projected BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) to win a comfortable majority.

Domestic stock markets opened higher on Monday after exit polls of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections projected BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) to win a comfortable majority. At 10:30 AM, the S&P BSE Sensex had gained a whopping 972.43 points, or 2.55 per cent, to trade at 38,903.31 levels, with Maruti, State Bank of India, Larsen & Toubro, ICICI Bank, and Reliance Industries among the top gainers. The broader Nifty50, had gained 285.05 points, or 2.49 per cent, to trade at 11,691. The exit polls are predicting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA is coming back to power at the Centre with close to 300 seats. The Indian rupee also gained in the early trade on Monday. It opened higher by 73 paise at 69.49 per dollar on Monday versus previous close 70.22. Wall Street ended lower on Friday as continuing trade tensions pulled industrial and tech shares down, and the Dow capped a fourth straight week of losses in its longest weekly losing streak in three years. Exit polls have been used for years to provide the pulse of India's political climate once voting is over. They try to give a sense of how voters may have exercised their franchise and which political party or alliance of parties stand the best chance of forming the next government.

Sensex rises 950 points as BJP-led NDA sweeps exit polls, rupee jumps against US dollar

Cash, drugs, liquor and precious metals worth Rs 3449.12 crore were seized by enforcement agencies since the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/exit-polls-2019-pm-modi-returning-to-power-with-300-plus-seats-say-pollsters-219927">Lok Sabha polls</a> were announced on March 10, the Election Commission said on Sunday. The seizure is nearly three times the figures of the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, the figures show.

In 2014, the overall seizure was Rs 1,206 crore, Director General (Election Expenditure) in the EC Dilip Sharma told a press conference.

Between March 10 and May 19, Rs 839.03 crore in cash, liquor worth Rs 294.41 crore, drugs worth Rs 1270.37 crore, precious metals, including gold, worth Rs 986.76 crore and "freebies", including sarees, wrist watches, aimed at inducing voters worth Rs 58.56 crore were seized, he said.

The total comes to Rs 3449.12 crore.&nbsp;

Cash, drugs, liquor and precious metals worth Rs 3449.12 crore were seized by enforcement agencies since the Lok Sabha polls were announced on March 10, the Election Commission said on Sunday.

Cash, drugs, liquor and precious metals worth Rs 3449.12 crore were seized by enforcement agencies since the Lok Sabha polls were announced on March 10, the Election Commission said on Sunday. The seizure is nearly three times the figures of the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, the figures show. In 2014, the overall seizure was Rs 1,206 crore, Director General (Election Expenditure) in the EC Dilip Sharma told a press conference. Between March 10 and May 19, Rs 839.03 crore in cash, liquor worth Rs 294.41 crore, drugs worth Rs 1270.37 crore, precious metals, including gold, worth Rs 986.76 crore and "freebies", including sarees, wrist watches, aimed at inducing voters worth Rs 58.56 crore were seized, he said. The total comes to Rs 3449.12 crore.

Rs 3,500 crore worth cash, liquor, drugs seized during this Lok Sabha polls

With most of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/exit-polls-2019-pm-modi-returning-to-power-with-300-plus-seats-say-pollsters-219927">exit polls</a> predicting a rout for his party in Andhra Pradesh, Telugu Desam president N Chandrababu Naidu Sunday night said that time and again such polls failed.

"Time and again exit polls have failed to catch the people's pulse. Exit polls have proved to be incorrect and far from ground reality in many instances. While undoubtedly TDP govt will be formed in AP, we are confident that non-BJP parties will form a non-BJP govt at the centre (sic)," Naidu said in a late night tweet.

Barring one or two, almost all exit polls predicted a thumping victory for the main opposition YSR Congress in the state elections.

They also said the YSRC would win close to 20 of the 25 Lok Sabha seats in the state.

Though not dismal, the polls gave good numbers to the TDP as well. 
In another tweet, he said, "We reiterate our demand to the ECI to count VVPATs in at least 50% of polling stations. VVPATs should be counted in 5 polling stations in each Assembly Constituency at the beginning of the counting process. In case of discrepancy, all VVPATs of Assembly Constituency shall be counted."

With most of the exit polls predicting a rout for his party in Andhra Pradesh, Telugu Desam president N Chandrababu Naidu Sunday night said that time and again such polls failed.

With most of the exit polls predicting a rout for his party in Andhra Pradesh, Telugu Desam president N Chandrababu Naidu Sunday night said that time and again such polls failed. "Time and again exit polls have failed to catch the people's pulse. Exit polls have proved to be incorrect and far from ground reality in many instances. While undoubtedly TDP govt will be formed in AP, we are confident that non-BJP parties will form a non-BJP govt at the centre (sic)," Naidu said in a late night tweet. Barring one or two, almost all exit polls predicted a thumping victory for the main opposition YSR Congress in the state elections. They also said the YSRC would win close to 20 of the 25 Lok Sabha seats in the state. Though not dismal, the polls gave good numbers to the TDP as well. In another tweet, he said, "We reiterate our demand to the ECI to count VVPATs in at least 50% of polling stations. VVPATs should be counted in 5 polling stations in each Assembly Constituency at the beginning of the counting process. In case of discrepancy, all VVPATs of Assembly Constituency shall be counted."

Time and again exit polls have failed to catch the people's pulse: Chandrababu Naidu

Shiv Sena on Monday took a dig at Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and mocked his efforts to form a non-BJP government at the Centre.

The TDP chief's deliberations are part of his efforts to unite non-NDA parties and bring them together on one platform.

"There are at least five contenders for the Prime Minister's post in Opposition. There are more chances of their disillusionment (mohbhang). Who will form the government? This question has already been answered. Amit Shah said that BJP will win 300 seats and the party reached that target in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections only," Shiv Sena said in its editorial mouthpiece 'Saamana'.

"Why Chandrababu Naidu is exhausting himself without any reason? Hope his current excitement last till May 23. We wish him luck for the same," the party added.

TDP chief Naidu in the past week undertook a hectic round of discussions with parties opposed to BJP when he met leaders including Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Mahagathbandhan leaders -- Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal and Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati.

Naidu is on a mission of rallying opposition parties in a bid to keep the BJP out of power, in case its numbers fall short of majority considerably. Naidu also met CPI leader Sudhakar Reddy and Loktantrik Janata Dal leader Sharad Yadav.

Notably, BSP chief Mayawati was too expected to meet with Congress' top rung, however with exit polls giving a clear verdict in favour of the BJP and Prime Minister Narnedra Modi's leadership, Opposition leaders may change their plans and prefer to wait for the results on May 23.

Shiv Sena on Monday took a dig at Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and mocked his efforts to form a non-BJP government at the Centre. The TDP chief's deliberations are part of his efforts to unite non-NDA parties and bring them together on one platform.

Shiv Sena on Monday took a dig at Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and mocked his efforts to form a non-BJP government at the Centre. The TDP chief's deliberations are part of his efforts to unite non-NDA parties and bring them together on one platform. "There are at least five contenders for the Prime Minister's post in Opposition. There are more chances of their disillusionment (mohbhang). Who will form the government? This question has already been answered. Amit Shah said that BJP will win 300 seats and the party reached that target in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections only," Shiv Sena said in its editorial mouthpiece 'Saamana'. "Why Chandrababu Naidu is exhausting himself without any reason? Hope his current excitement last till May 23. We wish him luck for the same," the party added. TDP chief Naidu in the past week undertook a hectic round of discussions with parties opposed to BJP when he met leaders including Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Mahagathbandhan leaders -- Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal and Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati. Naidu is on a mission of rallying opposition parties in a bid to keep the BJP out of power, in case its numbers fall short of majority considerably. Naidu also met CPI leader Sudhakar Reddy and Loktantrik Janata Dal leader Sharad Yadav. Notably, BSP chief Mayawati was too expected to meet with Congress' top rung, however with exit polls giving a clear verdict in favour of the BJP and Prime Minister Narnedra Modi's leadership, Opposition leaders may change their plans and prefer to wait for the results on May 23.

Hope Naidu's excitement last till May 23: Shiv Sena mocks Andhra CM 

Indian domestic stock markets cheered on Monday after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/exit-polls-2019-pm-modi-returning-to-power-with-300-plus-seats-say-pollsters-219927">exit poll results</a> showed that the BJP-led NDA is likely to win the Lok Sabha polls 2019.

BSE Sensex surged over 1000 points during the trade hours, and the rupee appreciated 79 paise against the US dollar. Domestic benchmark indices continued to extend their rally later in the day with the BSE Sensex climbing 1,300 points, Nifty touched 11,800 mark.

The 30-share index was trading 1,341 points or 3.54 per cent, higher at 39,271.77 points.

In similar movement, the broader NSE Nifty soared 393.95 points, or 3.45 per cent, to 11,801.10.&nbsp;

Top gainers in the Sensex pack include Maruti, L&amp;T, SBI, ICICI Bank, RIL, M&amp;M, IndusInd Bank, Axis Bank, Yes Bank and Vedanta, rising up to 4 per cent.

On the other hand, Bajaj Auto, Infosys and HCL Tech slipped up to 2 per cent.

Most exit polls Sunday forecast another term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with some of them projecting that BJP-led NDA will get more than 300 seats to comfortably cross the majority mark of 272 in the Lok Sabha.

The results of the seven-phase polls will come out Thursday.

"The exit polls have been better than market expectations, with the ruling party getting a comfortable majority. The market is likely to rally further, but the rally may not be significant as there are challenges of not so encouraging earnings growth, lower liquidity, slowing economy and global challenges," said Naveen Kulkarni, Head of Research, Reliance Securities.

There could be a sector-specific rally. Infrastructure and banking stocks could do well, he added.

Meanwhile, market regulator Sebi and stock exchanges have beefed up their surveillance mechanism to check any manipulative activities in the market this week in view of the high-octane election-related events lined up.

Foreign institutional investors sold equity worth Rs 1,057.82 crore on Friday, while domestic institutional investors purchased shares to the tune of Rs 1,809.76 crore, provisional data available with stock exchanges showed.

Elsewhere in Asia, bourses in China, Japan and Korea were trading on a mixed note in their respective early sessions.

On the currency front, the rupee appreciated by 79 paise to 69.44 against the US dollar in opening trade Monday.

Brent crude, the global benchmark, was trading at 73.28 per barrel, higher by 1.48 per cent. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Indian domestic stock markets cheered on Monday after exit poll results showed that the BJP-led NDA is likely to win the Lok Sabha polls 2019. BSE Sensex surged over 1000 points during the trade hours, and the rupee appreciated 79 paise against the US dollar.

Indian domestic stock markets cheered on Monday after exit poll results showed that the BJP-led NDA is likely to win the Lok Sabha polls 2019. BSE Sensex surged over 1000 points during the trade hours, and the rupee appreciated 79 paise against the US dollar. Domestic benchmark indices continued to extend their rally later in the day with the BSE Sensex climbing 1,300 points, Nifty touched 11,800 mark. The 30-share index was trading 1,341 points or 3.54 per cent, higher at 39,271.77 points. In similar movement, the broader NSE Nifty soared 393.95 points, or 3.45 per cent, to 11,801.10. Top gainers in the Sensex pack include Maruti, L&T, SBI, ICICI Bank, RIL, M&M, IndusInd Bank, Axis Bank, Yes Bank and Vedanta, rising up to 4 per cent. On the other hand, Bajaj Auto, Infosys and HCL Tech slipped up to 2 per cent. Most exit polls Sunday forecast another term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with some of them projecting that BJP-led NDA will get more than 300 seats to comfortably cross the majority mark of 272 in the Lok Sabha. The results of the seven-phase polls will come out Thursday. "The exit polls have been better than market expectations, with the ruling party getting a comfortable majority. The market is likely to rally further, but the rally may not be significant as there are challenges of not so encouraging earnings growth, lower liquidity, slowing economy and global challenges," said Naveen Kulkarni, Head of Research, Reliance Securities. There could be a sector-specific rally. Infrastructure and banking stocks could do well, he added. Meanwhile, market regulator Sebi and stock exchanges have beefed up their surveillance mechanism to check any manipulative activities in the market this week in view of the high-octane election-related events lined up. Foreign institutional investors sold equity worth Rs 1,057.82 crore on Friday, while domestic institutional investors purchased shares to the tune of Rs 1,809.76 crore, provisional data available with stock exchanges showed. Elsewhere in Asia, bourses in China, Japan and Korea were trading on a mixed note in their respective early sessions. On the currency front, the rupee appreciated by 79 paise to 69.44 against the US dollar in opening trade Monday. Brent crude, the global benchmark, was trading at 73.28 per barrel, higher by 1.48 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

As exit polls predict NDA win, Sensex surges over 1,300 points; inches up to touch 39,271

In what comes a major relief to actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan, the Madurai bench of the Madras High court has granted him Anticipatory bail on Monday, after the Police booked him for his controversial remarks on Nathuram Godse. Kamal made the remarks while campaigning for his party Makkal Needhi Maiam’s Aravakurichi candidate.&nbsp;

It was at a public meeting on May 12&nbsp;that Haasan said that Independent India’s first terrorist was a Hindu, referring to Nathuram Godse who had assassinated Mahatma Gandhi.&nbsp;

This statement had generated political reactions from the BJP and the ruling AIADMK in Tamil Nadu, which is part of the BJP-led NDA alliance. Hassan was accused of minority appeasement and the BJP had also complained to the Election Commission that his ‘remarks were made deliberately in the presence of a Muslim majority crowd for electoral gains’.

The FIR against his comments were filed in Aravakurichi based on the complaint filed by members of Hindu fringe groups. A case was registered under sections 153A and 295A.&nbsp;

The High Court’s Madurai bench had reserved its order last week.&nbsp;

After completing his last leg of campaigning, Kamal Haasan had clarified that “If a historical truth is spoken and it wounds people, we should heal that wound. That’s why we are here, being together and co-existing is the way ahead.”

Elaborating that his comments were on co-existence over tolerance, Haasan said other religions should not be tolerated but should be wholly accepted.

There were also attempts of violence against the actor for his comments, as miscreants had hurled slippers, eggs and stones at rallies of the actor. However, they fell in the midst of the crowd and the actor was escorted to safety.&nbsp;

Haasan’s party Makkal Needhi Maiam is making its debut in the Parliamentary polls and the by-polls to Tamil Nadu’s Assembly seats.

In what comes a major relief to actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan, the Madurai bench of the Madras High court has granted him Anticipatory bail on Monday, after the Police booked him for his controversial remarks on Nathuram Godse.

In what comes a major relief to actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan, the Madurai bench of the Madras High court has granted him Anticipatory bail on Monday, after the Police booked him for his controversial remarks on Nathuram Godse. Kamal made the remarks while campaigning for his party Makkal Needhi Maiam’s Aravakurichi candidate. It was at a public meeting on May 12 that Haasan said that Independent India’s first terrorist was a Hindu, referring to Nathuram Godse who had assassinated Mahatma Gandhi. This statement had generated political reactions from the BJP and the ruling AIADMK in Tamil Nadu, which is part of the BJP-led NDA alliance. Hassan was accused of minority appeasement and the BJP had also complained to the Election Commission that his ‘remarks were made deliberately in the presence of a Muslim majority crowd for electoral gains’. The FIR against his comments were filed in Aravakurichi based on the complaint filed by members of Hindu fringe groups. A case was registered under sections 153A and 295A. The High Court’s Madurai bench had reserved its order last week. After completing his last leg of campaigning, Kamal Haasan had clarified that “If a historical truth is spoken and it wounds people, we should heal that wound. That’s why we are here, being together and co-existing is the way ahead.” Elaborating that his comments were on co-existence over tolerance, Haasan said other religions should not be tolerated but should be wholly accepted. There were also attempts of violence against the actor for his comments, as miscreants had hurled slippers, eggs and stones at rallies of the actor. However, they fell in the midst of the crowd and the actor was escorted to safety. Haasan’s party Makkal Needhi Maiam is making its debut in the Parliamentary polls and the by-polls to Tamil Nadu’s Assembly seats.

Nathuram Godse remark: Madras High Court grants anticipatory bail to Kamal Haasan

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Sunday expressed confidence that Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will be able to secure victory in the Lok Sabha elections and also cast his vote in the ongoing seventh phase of the elections.

"I cast my vote just now, the public is with us (BJP). The mood of Patna Sahib is the same as that of the rest of the country, people want to make Modi Ji the Prime Minister again," Prasad told reporters outside his polling booth after casting his vote.

Prior to casting his vote Prasad, who was accompanied by his 88-year old mother, expressed the confidence that he will win.

"I am going to cast my vote, which is my democratic right. The country will achieve new levels of growth in the coming days. I am confident of my victory as always," Prasad told reporters at the time of leaving his house.

The BJP fielded Prasad against Congress leader and sitting MP from Patna Sahib Shatrughan Sinha. Sinha, a two time MP from the same seat is seeking re-election for the third time from the seat.

Bihar is seeing polling on 8 seats in the seventh and the final phase of the Lok Sabha polls. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Sunday expressed confidence that Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will be able to secure victory in the Lok Sabha elections and also cast his vote in the ongoing seventh phase of the elections.

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Sunday expressed confidence that Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will be able to secure victory in the Lok Sabha elections and also cast his vote in the ongoing seventh phase of the elections. "I cast my vote just now, the public is with us (BJP). The mood of Patna Sahib is the same as that of the rest of the country, people want to make Modi Ji the Prime Minister again," Prasad told reporters outside his polling booth after casting his vote. Prior to casting his vote Prasad, who was accompanied by his 88-year old mother, expressed the confidence that he will win. "I am going to cast my vote, which is my democratic right. The country will achieve new levels of growth in the coming days. I am confident of my victory as always," Prasad told reporters at the time of leaving his house. The BJP fielded Prasad against Congress leader and sitting MP from Patna Sahib Shatrughan Sinha. Sinha, a two time MP from the same seat is seeking re-election for the third time from the seat. Bihar is seeing polling on 8 seats in the seventh and the final phase of the Lok Sabha polls. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Confident of my victory; people want to make 'Modi ji' PM again: Ravi Shankar Prasad

RJD leader Rabri Devi sought Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's resignation after the latter condemned Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur's comment on Nathuram Godse.

Rabri told ANI that if Kumar was miffed over Thakur's remark then he should have separated from the BJP. "Nitish Kumar should have resigned if he is hurt over Pragya Thakur's comment. He should have separated from BJP over this comment," she said speaking to ANI.&nbsp;

"We are getting 40 out of 40 seats. The Mahagathbandhan is relaxed. On May 23, everything will be clear," she added.

Pragya Thakur on May 16, stoked a huge controversy and left the BJP red-faced with her comment that Mahatma Gandhi's assassin Nathuram Godse was a 'true patriot', a statement her party condemned and asked her to apologise for it immediately.

The Opposition parties tore into Pragya, saying what she said reflected the mindset of the people nurtured in RSS ideology.

Thakur, an accused in the Malegaon blast case, is not new to courting controversies. After being fielded by the BJP in Bhopal, she had said Hemant Karkare, who was killed during the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, died because she had cursed him. The statement had attracted all-round criticism including from the BJP which disowned it.

RJD leader Rabri Devi sought Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's resignation after the latter condemned Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur's comment on Nathuram Godse. Rabri told ANI that if Kumar was miffed over Thakur's remark then he should have separated from the BJP.

RJD leader Rabri Devi sought Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's resignation after the latter condemned Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur's comment on Nathuram Godse. Rabri told ANI that if Kumar was miffed over Thakur's remark then he should have separated from the BJP. "Nitish Kumar should have resigned if he is hurt over Pragya Thakur's comment. He should have separated from BJP over this comment," she said speaking to ANI. "We are getting 40 out of 40 seats. The Mahagathbandhan is relaxed. On May 23, everything will be clear," she added. Pragya Thakur on May 16, stoked a huge controversy and left the BJP red-faced with her comment that Mahatma Gandhi's assassin Nathuram Godse was a 'true patriot', a statement her party condemned and asked her to apologise for it immediately. The Opposition parties tore into Pragya, saying what she said reflected the mindset of the people nurtured in RSS ideology. Thakur, an accused in the Malegaon blast case, is not new to courting controversies. After being fielded by the BJP in Bhopal, she had said Hemant Karkare, who was killed during the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, died because she had cursed him. The statement had attracted all-round criticism including from the BJP which disowned it.

'Nitish should resign if he's hurt over Pragya Thakur's Godse remark': Rabri Devi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid obeisance and performed puja at Badrinath temple on the second day of his two-day visit to Uttarakhand, reported news agency PTI.&nbsp;

The prime minister reached Badrinath after spending around 20 hours in the Himalayan shrine of Kedarnath.

Modi offered prayers at innermost sanctum in Badrinath, another temple in Uttarakhand's 'char dham' religious circuit, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid obeisance and performed puja at Badrinath temple on the second day of his two-day visit to Uttarakhand, reported news agency PTI.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid obeisance and performed puja at Badrinath temple on the second day of his two-day visit to Uttarakhand, reported news agency PTI. The prime minister reached Badrinath after spending around 20 hours in the Himalayan shrine of Kedarnath. Modi offered prayers at innermost sanctum in Badrinath, another temple in Uttarakhand's 'char dham' religious circuit, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi performs puja at Badrinath temple

As the polling booths closed on Sunday marking an end to the seven-phased general elections, exit polls predicted Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/exit-polls-2019-pm-modi-returning-to-power-with-300-plus-seats-say-pollsters-219927">Narendra Modi-led NDA is coming back to power with a landslide victory</a>.

While the Times Now-VMR exit poll said the BJP-led NDA will win 306 of the 542 seats and the UPA will settle at 132, Republic C-Voter said the NDA will win 287 seats and UPA 128. Others, which include regional parties, will get 120 seats according to Times Now-VMR and 87 according to Republic C-Voter survey.

Global media, which closely followed the mega electoral battle, was abuzz with the pollsters' prediction of PM Narendra Modi getting a second term.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The New York Times, in a piece, stated that "the first batch of exit polls predicted that Narendra Modi, the prime minister, would return to power," adding that "many Indians credit him with programs that have helped the poor and cut through red tape and corruption".&nbsp;

"The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lions-share-of-uttar-pradeshs-seats-going-to-bjp-predict-exit-polls-219936">BJP would maintain its strong grip on Uttar Pradesh</a>, the most valuable state with 80 seats on offer, an average of seven polls showed," The Guardian stated in its report.

"The BJP has been trying to make inroads in the eastern state to counteract expected losses in Uttar Pradesh and other parts of north India’s 'Hindi heartland' that the party swept in 2014," the report added.

UK-based BBC reported said, "A number of exit polls are suggesting that Narendra Modi... is on course to win the general election. The BJP dominated the campaign but analysts warn that exit polls have often been wrong in the past," the BBC stated.&nbsp;

News agency Reuters reported citing analysts, "a clear win would mean Modi can carry out reforms investors expect to make India an easier place for doing business".

The exit poll is an exercise where psephologists follow a systematic and scientific manner in putting out a possible number of seats that a political party or alliance could muster up at the end of voting.

Exit polls have been used for years to provide the pulse of India's political climate once voting is over. They try to give a sense of how voters may have exercised their franchise and which political party or alliance of parties stand the best chance of forming the next government.

The counting of votes will take place on May 23, final results of the mega electoral exercise will be announced the same day.&nbsp;

Watch: Know ten big take-aways emerged from 'exit polls 2019'

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-votes-know-ten-big-take-aways-emerged-from-exit-polls-2019-219990/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

As the polling booths closed on Sunday marking an end to the seven-phased general elections, exit polls predicted Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA is coming back to power with a landslide victory.

As the polling booths closed on Sunday marking an end to the seven-phased general elections, exit polls predicted Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA is coming back to power with a landslide victory. While the Times Now-VMR exit poll said the BJP-led NDA will win 306 of the 542 seats and the UPA will settle at 132, Republic C-Voter said the NDA will win 287 seats and UPA 128. Others, which include regional parties, will get 120 seats according to Times Now-VMR and 87 according to Republic C-Voter survey. Global media, which closely followed the mega electoral battle, was abuzz with the pollsters' prediction of PM Narendra Modi getting a second term. The New York Times, in a piece, stated that "the first batch of exit polls predicted that Narendra Modi, the prime minister, would return to power," adding that "many Indians credit him with programs that have helped the poor and cut through red tape and corruption". "The BJP would maintain its strong grip on Uttar Pradesh, the most valuable state with 80 seats on offer, an average of seven polls showed," The Guardian stated in its report. "The BJP has been trying to make inroads in the eastern state to counteract expected losses in Uttar Pradesh and other parts of north India’s 'Hindi heartland' that the party swept in 2014," the report added. UK-based BBC reported said, "A number of exit polls are suggesting that Narendra Modi... is on course to win the general election. The BJP dominated the campaign but analysts warn that exit polls have often been wrong in the past," the BBC stated. News agency Reuters reported citing analysts, "a clear win would mean Modi can carry out reforms investors expect to make India an easier place for doing business". The exit poll is an exercise where psephologists follow a systematic and scientific manner in putting out a possible number of seats that a political party or alliance could muster up at the end of voting. Exit polls have been used for years to provide the pulse of India's political climate once voting is over. They try to give a sense of how voters may have exercised their franchise and which political party or alliance of parties stand the best chance of forming the next government. The counting of votes will take place on May 23, final results of the mega electoral exercise will be announced the same day. Watch: Know ten big take-aways emerged from 'exit polls 2019' ×

Foreign media on exit polls predicting second term for BJP

The seven-phase long Lok Sabha elections, one of the most bitterly fought in recent memory, will come to an end today.&nbsp;

As the one and a half month-long dance of democracy ends today, former Bihar CM Nitish Kumar said that there was a long gap between each phase of voting.&nbsp;

At booth number 326 in Raj Bhawan, after casting his vote Patna Nitish Kumar said that elections should not be held over such a long duration, there was a long gap between each phase of voting. I will write to leaders of all parties to build a consensus on this.&nbsp;

The battle for a total of 543 seats had started with elections in 91 constituencies across 20 states on April 11 in the first phase. The final vote count will be done May 23 and seal the fate of Indian politics when it will be finally decided if the incumbent BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi secure another term in the office or the anti-incumbency factor swings the tide.

Nearly 90 crore voters were eligible to vote for 543 Lok Sabha constituencies across the country.&nbsp;

This year Election Commission established approximately 10 lakh polling stations in 2019, compared to 9 lakh in 2014.

The seven-phase long Lok Sabha elections, one of the most bitterly fought in recent memory, will come to an end today. As the one and a half month-long dance of democracy ends today, former Bihar CM Nitish Kumar said that there was a long gap between each phase of voting.

The seven-phase long Lok Sabha elections, one of the most bitterly fought in recent memory, will come to an end today. As the one and a half month-long dance of democracy ends today, former Bihar CM Nitish Kumar said that there was a long gap between each phase of voting. At booth number 326 in Raj Bhawan, after casting his vote Patna Nitish Kumar said that elections should not be held over such a long duration, there was a long gap between each phase of voting. I will write to leaders of all parties to build a consensus on this. The battle for a total of 543 seats had started with elections in 91 constituencies across 20 states on April 11 in the first phase. The final vote count will be done May 23 and seal the fate of Indian politics when it will be finally decided if the incumbent BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi secure another term in the office or the anti-incumbency factor swings the tide. Nearly 90 crore voters were eligible to vote for 543 Lok Sabha constituencies across the country. This year Election Commission established approximately 10 lakh polling stations in 2019, compared to 9 lakh in 2014.

Polls shouldn't be held over such a long duration, says Nitish Kumar

RJD Candidate Misa Bharti request women voters to exercise their right. She also appealed women voters to come out and vote in huge numbers. Watch this video to know more.

RJD Candidate Misa Bharti request women voters to come out and vote in huge numbers

Dismissing BJP's assertion it will get more than 300 seats in the Lok Sabha elections, JDS supremo H D Deve Gowda Saturday said no national party can form the government without the support of regional parties.

Gowda, a former prime minister, also expressed confidence his son and Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy would complete his five-year term.

Yesterday also he (BJP president Amit Shah just like that said they may get more than 300 seatsno; so will Congress come to power? both are national parties they (Congress) too have difficulty.

Without the cooperation of regional parties, no national party can administer, he said.

Speaking to reporters here, he said, in the same way without (the support of) national parties no regional party can govern.

JDS, an ally of Congress in Karnataka, has already pledged its support to Congress President Rahul Gandhi in forming a government at the Centre.

Addressing a press conference Friday, Shah had said BJP will have enough seats to form a government on its own.

"We will get more than 300 seats. This election is to choose the country's Prime Minister. Narendra Modi will be the PM," he added.

Referring to doubts expressed over the longevity of the Kumaraswamy government, Gowda said such talks were on since his son became the Chief Minister last year and asserted the coalition government will remain in power and complete its term.

Rahul Gandhi and (UPA chairperson) Sonia Gandhi have decided they will support the coalition government under Kumaraswamys leadership for five years and even gave it in writing, he said, accusing the media of "creating confusion".

Congress and JDS forged a post-poll alliance to form the coalition government after the assembly elections threw up a hung verdict.

Dismissing BJP's assertion it will get more than 300 seats in the Lok Sabha elections, JDS supremo H D Deve Gowda Saturday said no national party can form the government without the support of regional parties.

Dismissing BJP's assertion it will get more than 300 seats in the Lok Sabha elections, JDS supremo H D Deve Gowda Saturday said no national party can form the government without the support of regional parties. Gowda, a former prime minister, also expressed confidence his son and Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy would complete his five-year term. Yesterday also he (BJP president Amit Shah just like that said they may get more than 300 seatsno; so will Congress come to power? both are national parties they (Congress) too have difficulty. Without the cooperation of regional parties, no national party can administer, he said. Speaking to reporters here, he said, in the same way without (the support of) national parties no regional party can govern. JDS, an ally of Congress in Karnataka, has already pledged its support to Congress President Rahul Gandhi in forming a government at the Centre. Addressing a press conference Friday, Shah had said BJP will have enough seats to form a government on its own. "We will get more than 300 seats. This election is to choose the country's Prime Minister. Narendra Modi will be the PM," he added. Referring to doubts expressed over the longevity of the Kumaraswamy government, Gowda said such talks were on since his son became the Chief Minister last year and asserted the coalition government will remain in power and complete its term. Rahul Gandhi and (UPA chairperson) Sonia Gandhi have decided they will support the coalition government under Kumaraswamys leadership for five years and even gave it in writing, he said, accusing the media of "creating confusion". Congress and JDS forged a post-poll alliance to form the coalition government after the assembly elections threw up a hung verdict.

Deve Gowda says no party can form government at Centre without support of regional players

The TMC wrote to the Election Commission Sunday alleging the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Himalayan shrine of Kedarnath is a violation of the model code of conduct.

"Even though the Election campaign for the last phase of polling for 2019 Lok Sabha is over as long as back on May 17 at 6 pm, surprisingly Narendra Modi's Kedarnath Yatra is being covered and widely televised for the last two days in all national as well as local media. This is a gross violation of the Model Code of Conduct," Trinamool Congress spokesperson Derek O'Brien said in the letter.

He said the prime minister even announced that the master plan for the Kedarnath Temple is ready and also addressed the public and the media at the temple town.

"it is absolutely unethical and morally incorrect."

"Every minute detail of his activities during the visit is being widely publicised with an ulterior motive to influence voters directly and/or indirectly."

"Modi Modi" chants are also being heard from the background," he said.

The TMC leader said all these moves were well calculated with the "ill intention to influence the voters" on the polling day.

It is unfortunate that the poll body has not taken any action against the PM, it added.

"Election Commission, the highest body and the eyes and ears of the democratic process, remains blind and deaf to the gross violation of the MCC. I would request you to take immediate action and stop telecast of such surreptitious and unfair campaign which is also morally wrong," he said.

Modi, who is on a two-day visit to Uttarakhand, reached Kedarnath on Saturday and is expected to be at Badrinath temple Sunday.

The TMC wrote to the Election Commission Sunday alleging the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Himalayan shrine of Kedarnath is a violation of the model code of conduct.

The TMC wrote to the Election Commission Sunday alleging the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Himalayan shrine of Kedarnath is a violation of the model code of conduct. "Even though the Election campaign for the last phase of polling for 2019 Lok Sabha is over as long as back on May 17 at 6 pm, surprisingly Narendra Modi's Kedarnath Yatra is being covered and widely televised for the last two days in all national as well as local media. This is a gross violation of the Model Code of Conduct," Trinamool Congress spokesperson Derek O'Brien said in the letter. He said the prime minister even announced that the master plan for the Kedarnath Temple is ready and also addressed the public and the media at the temple town. "it is absolutely unethical and morally incorrect." "Every minute detail of his activities during the visit is being widely publicised with an ulterior motive to influence voters directly and/or indirectly." "Modi Modi" chants are also being heard from the background," he said. The TMC leader said all these moves were well calculated with the "ill intention to influence the voters" on the polling day. It is unfortunate that the poll body has not taken any action against the PM, it added. "Election Commission, the highest body and the eyes and ears of the democratic process, remains blind and deaf to the gross violation of the MCC. I would request you to take immediate action and stop telecast of such surreptitious and unfair campaign which is also morally wrong," he said. Modi, who is on a two-day visit to Uttarakhand, reached Kedarnath on Saturday and is expected to be at Badrinath temple Sunday.

Trinamool complaints to poll panel, says PM Modi's visit to Kedarnath violates Model Code of Conduct

RJD chief Lalu Prasad's son Tej Pratap Yadav's personal security guards on Sunday&nbsp;beat a camera person after he allegedly broke the windscreen of Yadav's car.&nbsp;

Tej Pratap was leaving after casting his vote at Veterinary College in Pataliputra Lok Sabha constituency.&nbsp;

Speaking to ANI Lalu Prasad Yadav’s elder son said, “My bouncers have not done anything. I was leaving after casting my vote when a photographer hit the windscreen of my car. I have filed an FIR in the incident. A conspiracy is being hatched to kill me.”

The former RJD leader has filed an FIR in the incident.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Tej Pratap Yadav's personal security guards in Patna beat a camera person after he allegedly broke the windscreen of Yadav's car. Tej Pratap Yadav was leaving after casting his vote. Yadav has filed an FIR in the incident. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bihar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bihar</a> <a href="https://t.co/u1KzKDCGBG">pic.twitter.com/u1KzKDCGBG</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1130011111661744130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, voting is underway across fifty-nine seats in eight states in the final round of the Lok Sabha elections that began 38 days ago.

Fresh violence is being reported across West Bengal. Bombing incidents allegedly took place outside Basirhat polling booth, in Mathurapur village and in Islampur, where bypolls are underway. A BJP camp was also set to fire in Barasat. Meanwhile, in Basirhat, BJP alleged that 100 voters were barred from casting their votes.&nbsp;

EVM malfunction across Punjab and Bihar were reported. Reports of violent clashes between workers of various parties are coming in from Punjab, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh, too.

RJD chief Lalu Prasad's son Tej Pratap Yadav's personal security guards on Sunday beat a camera person after he allegedly broke the windscreen of Yadav's car. Tej Pratap was leaving after casting his vote at Veterinary College in Pataliputra Lok Sabha constituency.

RJD chief Lalu Prasad's son Tej Pratap Yadav's personal security guards on Sunday beat a camera person after he allegedly broke the windscreen of Yadav's car. Tej Pratap was leaving after casting his vote at Veterinary College in Pataliputra Lok Sabha constituency. Speaking to ANI Lalu Prasad Yadav’s elder son said, “My bouncers have not done anything. I was leaving after casting my vote when a photographer hit the windscreen of my car. I have filed an FIR in the incident. A conspiracy is being hatched to kill me.” The former RJD leader has filed an FIR in the incident. #WATCH Tej Pratap Yadav's personal security guards in Patna beat a camera person after he allegedly broke the windscreen of Yadav's car. Tej Pratap Yadav was leaving after casting his vote. Yadav has filed an FIR in the incident. #Bihar pic.twitter.com/u1KzKDCGBG — ANI (@ANI) May 19, 2019 × Meanwhile, voting is underway across fifty-nine seats in eight states in the final round of the Lok Sabha elections that began 38 days ago. Fresh violence is being reported across West Bengal. Bombing incidents allegedly took place outside Basirhat polling booth, in Mathurapur village and in Islampur, where bypolls are underway. A BJP camp was also set to fire in Barasat. Meanwhile, in Basirhat, BJP alleged that 100 voters were barred from casting their votes. EVM malfunction across Punjab and Bihar were reported. Reports of violent clashes between workers of various parties are coming in from Punjab, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh, too.

Video: Tej Pratap Yadav's personal security guards beat up a journalist in Patna

With India voting in the last leg of the Lok Sabha elections on Sunday, Bollywood actor Farhan Akhtar was massively trolled after he made an appeal to voters of Bhopal to vote against BJP's Pragya Thakur.

Now, here's the catch - the parliamentary constituency has already voted in the sixth phase of polls on May 12 last Sunday, which means Farhan is a tad too late in his political appeal.

"Dear electorate of Bhopal, it's time for you to save your city from another full-of-gas tragedy. #SayNoToPragya #SayNoToGodse #RememberTheMahatma #ChooseLoveNotHate," the actor tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Dear electorate of Bhopal, it’s time for you to save your city from another full-of-gas tragedy. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SayNoToPragya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SayNoToPragya</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SayNoToGodse?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SayNoToGodse</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RememberTheMahatma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RememberTheMahatma</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChooseLoveNotHate?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChooseLoveNotHate</a>
— Farhan Akhtar (@FarOutAkhtar) <a href="https://twitter.com/FarOutAkhtar/status/1129947762496135169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Pragya Thakur had recently stoked controversy by terming Nathuram Godse, the killer of Mahatma Gandhi, a patriot. She was forced to dial down her statement and apologise for the remark after her party BJP expressed disagreement and distanced itself from the comment. Even Prime Minister Modi had stated he will never be able to forgive Thakur for what she said.

Hawk-eyed Twitter users couldn't have spared the actor for his faux pas.&nbsp;

They were not only quick in pointing out the delay but also slammed the actor for his reference to the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, one of the world's worst industrial disasters which claimed around 15,000 lives.

"Making fun of Gas tragedy and it's victims. #Shameless," wrote a user.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Making fun of Gas tragedy and it's victims. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Shameless?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Shameless</a>
— Hitesh Gupta (@hiteshkgupta) <a href="https://twitter.com/hiteshkgupta/status/1129982152718688256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Change your internet connection. Your tweets are taking 10 days to be published," read another tweet.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
O Dhakkan, Elections were held on 12th in Bhopal. &amp; plz Change your internet connection. Your tweets are taking 10 days to be published 😂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JitegiToPragyaDidiHi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JitegiToPragyaDidiHi</a> ✌
— Chowkidar Himanshu Wadhwa (@himanshuWadhwa0) <a href="https://twitter.com/himanshuWadhwa0/status/1130008516754731009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Another user wrote, "These guys are so cut off from reality."

Despite the flurry of replies and merciless trolling, the "Rock On!!" actor is yet to issue take down his tweet or issue a correction.

Four hours after he put up the post on the micro-blogging website, it had garnered over 1,600 retweets and 8,600 replies.

Farhan's parents, Javed Akhtar and Shabana Azmi, have been vocal critics of the BJP and policies of the Narendra Modi-led central government. The couple also promptly campaigned for Kanhaiya Kumar, the Communist Party candidate from Bihar's Begusarai.

With India voting in the last leg of the Lok Sabha elections on Sunday, Bollywood actor Farhan Akhtar was massively trolled after he made an appeal to voters of Bhopal to vote against BJP's Pragya Thakur.

With India voting in the last leg of the Lok Sabha elections on Sunday, Bollywood actor Farhan Akhtar was massively trolled after he made an appeal to voters of Bhopal to vote against BJP's Pragya Thakur. Now, here's the catch - the parliamentary constituency has already voted in the sixth phase of polls on May 12 last Sunday, which means Farhan is a tad too late in his political appeal. "Dear electorate of Bhopal, it's time for you to save your city from another full-of-gas tragedy. #SayNoToPragya #SayNoToGodse #RememberTheMahatma #ChooseLoveNotHate," the actor tweeted. Dear electorate of Bhopal, it’s time for you to save your city from another full-of-gas tragedy. #SayNoToPragya #SayNoToGodse #RememberTheMahatma #ChooseLoveNotHate — Farhan Akhtar (@FarOutAkhtar) May 19, 2019 × Pragya Thakur had recently stoked controversy by terming Nathuram Godse, the killer of Mahatma Gandhi, a patriot. She was forced to dial down her statement and apologise for the remark after her party BJP expressed disagreement and distanced itself from the comment. Even Prime Minister Modi had stated he will never be able to forgive Thakur for what she said. Hawk-eyed Twitter users couldn't have spared the actor for his faux pas. They were not only quick in pointing out the delay but also slammed the actor for his reference to the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, one of the world's worst industrial disasters which claimed around 15,000 lives. "Making fun of Gas tragedy and it's victims. #Shameless," wrote a user. Making fun of Gas tragedy and it's victims. #Shameless — Hitesh Gupta (@hiteshkgupta) May 19, 2019 × "Change your internet connection. Your tweets are taking 10 days to be published," read another tweet. O Dhakkan, Elections were held on 12th in Bhopal. & plz Change your internet connection. Your tweets are taking 10 days to be published 😂#JitegiToPragyaDidiHi ✌ — Chowkidar Himanshu Wadhwa (@himanshuWadhwa0) May 19, 2019 × Another user wrote, "These guys are so cut off from reality." Despite the flurry of replies and merciless trolling, the "Rock On!!" actor is yet to issue take down his tweet or issue a correction. Four hours after he put up the post on the micro-blogging website, it had garnered over 1,600 retweets and 8,600 replies. Farhan's parents, Javed Akhtar and Shabana Azmi, have been vocal critics of the BJP and policies of the Narendra Modi-led central government. The couple also promptly campaigned for Kanhaiya Kumar, the Communist Party candidate from Bihar's Begusarai.

Farhan Akhtar urges Bhopal to vote against Pragya Thakur, week after elections, gets trolled

The Election Commission has issued a notice to BJP candidate from Gurdaspur, Sunny Deol for allegedly violating of the model code of conduct.

Poll officials took serious note of a public meeting held by Deol in Pathankot on Friday night, after the silent period come in force.

They also found that a loudspeaker was used in the public meeting in which around 200 people were present.

In the notice, it was pointed out that by holding a public meeting during the silent period, Deol has violated the model code of conduct.

The election campaign is completely banned 48 hours before the polling process. Polling in all 13 Lok Sabha seats in Punjab will be held Sunday.

Deol is pitted against Congress's Sunil Jakhar from the Gurdaspur parliamentary constituency.

The Election Commission has issued a notice to BJP candidate from Gurdaspur, Sunny Deol for allegedly violating of the model code of conduct. Poll officials took serious note of a public meeting held by Deol in Pathankot on Friday night, after the silent period come in force.

The Election Commission has issued a notice to BJP candidate from Gurdaspur, Sunny Deol for allegedly violating of the model code of conduct. Poll officials took serious note of a public meeting held by Deol in Pathankot on Friday night, after the silent period come in force. They also found that a loudspeaker was used in the public meeting in which around 200 people were present. In the notice, it was pointed out that by holding a public meeting during the silent period, Deol has violated the model code of conduct. The election campaign is completely banned 48 hours before the polling process. Polling in all 13 Lok Sabha seats in Punjab will be held Sunday. Deol is pitted against Congress's Sunil Jakhar from the Gurdaspur parliamentary constituency.

Election Commission issues notice to Sunny Deol for 'violating' poll code