The Supreme Court on Monday adjourned to 10 May the hearing of pleas seeking review of its verdict on the Rafale fighter jet case and also the contempt petition against Congress President Rahul Gandhi for attributing the ‘chowkidar chor hai’ remark to the top court.&nbsp;

The apex court said it would take up the pleas seeking review of its December 14, 2018 verdict on the Rafale fighter jet case and the contempt case against Congress president Rahul Gandhi's 'chowkidar chor hai' remark together on May 10.

A special bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, also comprising Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph, expressed surprise as to how the review pleas and the contempt petition against Gandhi were listed separately on different dates when it had earlier ordered that both the cases will be heard together.

"We are little perplexed that the two cases are listed on two different dates when the order was that these matters will be heard together," the bench said.

During the brief hearing, advocate Prashant Bhushan told the bench that he would argue the review pleas as well as an application seeking production of certain documents.

He said the court should allow his co-petitioner and former Union minister Arun Shourie to argue a separate application seeking perjury action against unknown government servants for allegedly misleading the court during the Rafale case hearing earlier.

(With inputs from PTI)

The Supreme Court on Monday adjourned to 10 May the hearing of pleas seeking review of its verdict on the Rafale fighter jet case and also the contempt petition against Congress President Rahul Gandhi for attributing the ‘chowkidar chor hai’ remark to the top court.

The Supreme Court on Monday adjourned to 10 May the hearing of pleas seeking review of its verdict on the Rafale fighter jet case and also the contempt petition against Congress President Rahul Gandhi for attributing the ‘chowkidar chor hai’ remark to the top court. The apex court said it would take up the pleas seeking review of its December 14, 2018 verdict on the Rafale fighter jet case and the contempt case against Congress president Rahul Gandhi's 'chowkidar chor hai' remark together on May 10. A special bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, also comprising Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph, expressed surprise as to how the review pleas and the contempt petition against Gandhi were listed separately on different dates when it had earlier ordered that both the cases will be heard together. "We are little perplexed that the two cases are listed on two different dates when the order was that these matters will be heard together," the bench said. During the brief hearing, advocate Prashant Bhushan told the bench that he would argue the review pleas as well as an application seeking production of certain documents. He said the court should allow his co-petitioner and former Union minister Arun Shourie to argue a separate application seeking perjury action against unknown government servants for allegedly misleading the court during the Rafale case hearing earlier. (With inputs from PTI)

Rafale deal: Supreme Court to hear review petition, contempt plea against Rahul Gandhi on May 10

The Supreme Court Monday asked Congress MP Sushmita Dev to bring on record the Election Commission's orders giving clean chit to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah on complaints of Model Code violations.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Deepak Gupta has now listed the plea of Dev, a Congress MP from Silchar Lok Sabha seat in Assam, for hearing on May 8.

Senior advocate A M Singhvi, appearing for Dev, alleged that the poll panel has passed unreasoned orders dismissing the complaints of the Congress party on violations of MCC (Model Code of Conduct) by the prime minister and Shah who are accused of using armed forces in their campaign.

The bench asked the lawmaker to file an additional affidavit bringing on records the orders passed by EC on the complaints of MCC violations by the top two BJP leaders.

The EC has given clean chit to Modi for two of his speeches - one in Latur last month urging first time voters to dedicate their votes in the name of Balakot air strike heroes and soldiers killed in the Pulwama attack, and the other in Wardha on April 1, where he indicated that Wayanad constituency had more voters from the minority community.

In her plea in the top court, Dev had alleged that "inaction" by the poll panel on complaints against top BJP leaders was "a sign of invidious discrimination" as also "arbitrary, capricious and impermissible" as it was destructive of the integrity of the electoral process.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court Monday asked Congress MP Sushmita Dev to bring on record the Election Commission's orders giving clean chit to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah on complaints of Model Code violations.

The Supreme Court Monday asked Congress MP Sushmita Dev to bring on record the Election Commission's orders giving clean chit to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah on complaints of Model Code violations. A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Deepak Gupta has now listed the plea of Dev, a Congress MP from Silchar Lok Sabha seat in Assam, for hearing on May 8. Senior advocate A M Singhvi, appearing for Dev, alleged that the poll panel has passed unreasoned orders dismissing the complaints of the Congress party on violations of MCC (Model Code of Conduct) by the prime minister and Shah who are accused of using armed forces in their campaign. The bench asked the lawmaker to file an additional affidavit bringing on records the orders passed by EC on the complaints of MCC violations by the top two BJP leaders. The EC has given clean chit to Modi for two of his speeches - one in Latur last month urging first time voters to dedicate their votes in the name of Balakot air strike heroes and soldiers killed in the Pulwama attack, and the other in Wardha on April 1, where he indicated that Wayanad constituency had more voters from the minority community. In her plea in the top court, Dev had alleged that "inaction" by the poll panel on complaints against top BJP leaders was "a sign of invidious discrimination" as also "arbitrary, capricious and impermissible" as it was destructive of the integrity of the electoral process.

Supreme Court asks Congress MP to bring on record EC orders giving clean chit to PM Modi, Amit Shah

Reliance Group on Sunday dismissed Congress president Rahul Gandhi's claim that Anil Ambani is "a dishonest businessman and crony capitalist."&nbsp;

Gandhi's claims are "patently untrue statements," said a spokesperson of Reliance Group.

"Congress party president Rahul Gandhi, in his typical cavalier fashion has continued his campaign of calumny, disinformation, distortion and malicious lies. Yesterday, he singled out our group chairman Anil D Ambani as allegedly a crony capitalist and dishonest businessman — all obviously patently untrue statements," the spokesperson further said in the statement.

"As is by now, customary for all of Rahul Gandhi's public statements, he has attributed no basis to these claims whatsoever, and neither has he provided any credible evidence at all to justify his derogatory and defamatory campaign."

Reliance Group spokesperson said: "We at the Reliance Group have chosen to ignore Rahul Gandhi's comments with continuing patience and restraint. We likewise dismiss his latest remark as yet another one of his multiple untruthful utterances, in the heat and dust of his electoral campaign, for which he has recently been facing contempt proceedings in the highest court of the land, the Hon'ble Supreme Court."

"We would like to remind Rahul Gandhi, that it was during the 10 year Congress-led UPA regime between 2004 and 2014 that Anil Ambani-led Reliance Group was awarded projects of over Rs 1,00,000 crore across diverse key nation-building infrastructure sectors such as power, telecom, roads, metro by a government led by none other than Rahul Gandhi's own political party - the Congress," said the spokesperson.

"The Reliance Group takes this opportunity to request Rahul Gandhi to clarify whether his government, for 10 long years, was supporting an alleged crony capitalist and dishonest businessman, to use Mr Gandhi's own words," the spokesperson said.

Gandhi has repeatedly levelled allegations against the BJP government for alleged wrongdoings in the Rafale deal and has accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi directly of corruption, which the ruling party has outrightly denied.

The Congress president has alleged that Prime Minister Modi conducted "parallel negotiations" and cancelled the previous deal agreed by the UPA government, and gave Ambani firm's Reliance Defence the offset contract worth Rs 30,000 crore.

Reliance Group on Sunday dismissed Congress president Rahul Gandhi's claim that Anil Ambani is "a dishonest businessman and crony capitalist." Gandhi's claims are "patently untrue statements," said a spokesperson of Reliance Group.

Reliance Group on Sunday dismissed Congress president Rahul Gandhi's claim that Anil Ambani is "a dishonest businessman and crony capitalist." Gandhi's claims are "patently untrue statements," said a spokesperson of Reliance Group. "Congress party president Rahul Gandhi, in his typical cavalier fashion has continued his campaign of calumny, disinformation, distortion and malicious lies. Yesterday, he singled out our group chairman Anil D Ambani as allegedly a crony capitalist and dishonest businessman — all obviously patently untrue statements," the spokesperson further said in the statement. "As is by now, customary for all of Rahul Gandhi's public statements, he has attributed no basis to these claims whatsoever, and neither has he provided any credible evidence at all to justify his derogatory and defamatory campaign." Reliance Group spokesperson said: "We at the Reliance Group have chosen to ignore Rahul Gandhi's comments with continuing patience and restraint. We likewise dismiss his latest remark as yet another one of his multiple untruthful utterances, in the heat and dust of his electoral campaign, for which he has recently been facing contempt proceedings in the highest court of the land, the Hon'ble Supreme Court." "We would like to remind Rahul Gandhi, that it was during the 10 year Congress-led UPA regime between 2004 and 2014 that Anil Ambani-led Reliance Group was awarded projects of over Rs 1,00,000 crore across diverse key nation-building infrastructure sectors such as power, telecom, roads, metro by a government led by none other than Rahul Gandhi's own political party - the Congress," said the spokesperson. "The Reliance Group takes this opportunity to request Rahul Gandhi to clarify whether his government, for 10 long years, was supporting an alleged crony capitalist and dishonest businessman, to use Mr Gandhi's own words," the spokesperson said. Gandhi has repeatedly levelled allegations against the BJP government for alleged wrongdoings in the Rafale deal and has accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi directly of corruption, which the ruling party has outrightly denied. The Congress president has alleged that Prime Minister Modi conducted "parallel negotiations" and cancelled the previous deal agreed by the UPA government, and gave Ambani firm's Reliance Defence the offset contract worth Rs 30,000 crore.

Reliance Group dismisses Rahul Gandhi's charge of Anil Ambani being crony capitalist

With three phases of Lok Sabha elections around the corner in the state, all political parties are putting their best foot forward promising best of development for the state. However, the state of affairs in Samdai village in Damoh region narrates a different story.

Samdai is facing a drought-like situation, with villagers threatening to boycott the elections if their demands are not met. People from as many as 18 villages of Damoh district submitted a letter before the District Collector on Saturday demanding ponds in every village in the district, among other things.

Villagers also demonstrated in front of the Collector's office holding placards that read "talaab nahi to vote nahi (no pond, no vote)" to show their anger.

Speaking to ANI, one of the demonstrators Savitri Devi said: "We have to walk for hours to fetch water. There is no alternative since we do not have a pond in our village."

Echoing similar sentiments, another demonstrator said: "We had earlier put our demands before Damoh MP Prahlad Singh Patel but to no avail. Officials do not pay heed to our demands. We will not vote in this election if our demands are not met this time."

Additional Collector Ananda Kopriya, however, assured that demands of the villagers will be met. Speaking to ANI, he said, "We have forwarded the letter. We will also talk to the villagers regarding the matter."

Back-to-back droughts and erratic rainfall pattern in the era of global warming has drastically affected the groundwater level in the state.

Madhya Pradesh went to polls in the fourth phase on April 29. Next polling will be held in the fifth, sixth and seventh phases on May 6, 12 and 19, respectively. The counting of votes will be done on May 23.

With three phases of Lok Sabha elections around the corner in the state, all political parties are putting their best foot forward promising best of development for the state.

With three phases of Lok Sabha elections around the corner in the state, all political parties are putting their best foot forward promising best of development for the state. However, the state of affairs in Samdai village in Damoh region narrates a different story. Samdai is facing a drought-like situation, with villagers threatening to boycott the elections if their demands are not met. People from as many as 18 villages of Damoh district submitted a letter before the District Collector on Saturday demanding ponds in every village in the district, among other things. Villagers also demonstrated in front of the Collector's office holding placards that read "talaab nahi to vote nahi (no pond, no vote)" to show their anger. Speaking to ANI, one of the demonstrators Savitri Devi said: "We have to walk for hours to fetch water. There is no alternative since we do not have a pond in our village." Echoing similar sentiments, another demonstrator said: "We had earlier put our demands before Damoh MP Prahlad Singh Patel but to no avail. Officials do not pay heed to our demands. We will not vote in this election if our demands are not met this time." Additional Collector Ananda Kopriya, however, assured that demands of the villagers will be met. Speaking to ANI, he said, "We have forwarded the letter. We will also talk to the villagers regarding the matter." Back-to-back droughts and erratic rainfall pattern in the era of global warming has drastically affected the groundwater level in the state. Madhya Pradesh went to polls in the fourth phase on April 29. Next polling will be held in the fifth, sixth and seventh phases on May 6, 12 and 19, respectively. The counting of votes will be done on May 23.

This Madhya Pradesh village threatens to boycott polls if water shortage issue not resolved

BJP president Amit Shah Sunday asserted that India will emerge as a "superpower" in the next five years if Narendra Modi becomes the prime minister again.

Addressing his fourth rally in the states of Punjab and Haryana, Shah said the country was secure only under the Modi rule. He earlier organised rallies at Sonipat and Panipat in Haryana, and at Pathankot in Punjab.

His rally in Haryana's Yamunanagar was cancelled. "I have come here to say if you make Narendra Modi PM again, India will emerge as a superpower in the world in next five years," the BJP chief told the gathering here. He was campaigning for BJP nominee and sitting MP from Chandigarh, Kirron Kher.

Dubbing the Congress-led opposition 'Mahamilavati' (highly adulterated) 'Mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance), Shah reiterated that only Narendra Modi can keep the country secure. "On one side, BJP and its alliance partners, and on the other hand, there is 'Mahamilavat Mahagathbandhan' whose leader is Rahul (Gandhi). Can they secure the country? Can they work for welfare of poor? Can they give a strong reply to terrorism? Can they give a strong reply to Pakistan?" he said.

The BJP leader said the 2019 Lok Sabha elections were being fought not only for development. "Development of poor, villages, farmers, cities will be carried out by Modi. But the job of securing the country can only be done by Modi ji," he said.

Shah, who is contesting from Gandhinagar in Gujarat, yet again raised the issue of Balakot strikes and attacked the Congress for seeking proof of the strikes. He also vowed to scrap Article 370 (granting special status to Jammu and Kashmir) while asserting that Kashmir will always remain an integral part of India.

Shah also listed out the work carried out by the party in Chandigarh during the last five years. Chandigarh become kerosene-free city and every house here has LPG cylinder, he said, adding direct benefit transfer was introduced in the Public Distribution Scheme (PDS).

Chandigarh was also included in the first list of smart cities and work was carried out towards making the Chandigarh Railway Station as a model station, the BJP president said.

He said flats were constructed for 5,000 slum dwellers at the cost of Rs 155 crore. "For urban transportation, 84 buses were purchased for Rs 37 crore. An amount of Rs 42 crore was spent in sector 17 and an administrative building is being set up here at the cost of Rs 72 crore," Shah added.

BJP president Amit Shah Sunday asserted that India will emerge as a "superpower" in the next five years if Narendra Modi becomes the prime minister again. Addressing his fourth rally in the states of Punjab and Haryana, Shah said the country was secure only under the Modi rule.

BJP president Amit Shah Sunday asserted that India will emerge as a "superpower" in the next five years if Narendra Modi becomes the prime minister again. Addressing his fourth rally in the states of Punjab and Haryana, Shah said the country was secure only under the Modi rule. He earlier organised rallies at Sonipat and Panipat in Haryana, and at Pathankot in Punjab. His rally in Haryana's Yamunanagar was cancelled. "I have come here to say if you make Narendra Modi PM again, India will emerge as a superpower in the world in next five years," the BJP chief told the gathering here. He was campaigning for BJP nominee and sitting MP from Chandigarh, Kirron Kher. Dubbing the Congress-led opposition 'Mahamilavati' (highly adulterated) 'Mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance), Shah reiterated that only Narendra Modi can keep the country secure. "On one side, BJP and its alliance partners, and on the other hand, there is 'Mahamilavat Mahagathbandhan' whose leader is Rahul (Gandhi). Can they secure the country? Can they work for welfare of poor? Can they give a strong reply to terrorism? Can they give a strong reply to Pakistan?" he said. The BJP leader said the 2019 Lok Sabha elections were being fought not only for development. "Development of poor, villages, farmers, cities will be carried out by Modi. But the job of securing the country can only be done by Modi ji," he said. Shah, who is contesting from Gandhinagar in Gujarat, yet again raised the issue of Balakot strikes and attacked the Congress for seeking proof of the strikes. He also vowed to scrap Article 370 (granting special status to Jammu and Kashmir) while asserting that Kashmir will always remain an integral part of India. Shah also listed out the work carried out by the party in Chandigarh during the last five years. Chandigarh become kerosene-free city and every house here has LPG cylinder, he said, adding direct benefit transfer was introduced in the Public Distribution Scheme (PDS). Chandigarh was also included in the first list of smart cities and work was carried out towards making the Chandigarh Railway Station as a model station, the BJP president said. He said flats were constructed for 5,000 slum dwellers at the cost of Rs 155 crore. "For urban transportation, 84 buses were purchased for Rs 37 crore. An amount of Rs 42 crore was spent in sector 17 and an administrative building is being set up here at the cost of Rs 72 crore," Shah added.

India will become 'superpower' if Modi becomes PM again: Amit Shah

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday said that post-May 23, he will issue an advisory in view of the Lok Sabha poll results and the possibility of subsequent clashes between the workers of the SP and the BSP.

Addressing a poll meeting here, he said, "On May 23, when the election results are declared, 'bua' (BSP supremo Mayawati) will say 'babua' (SP chief Akhilesh Yadav) is the head of the goons and 'babua' will say 'bua' is the epitome of corruption. This is certain."

The Chief Minister said he will not allow any violence in Uttar Pradesh, adding, "We will issue an advisory so that the citizens are not caught in their violence."

Hitting out at the political rivals of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Adityanath said, "During the 2017 Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls, (Congress leader) Priyanka Gandhi had talked about the combination of two boys (Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav).

"But Uttar Pradesh had said the pair was not of two boys, but of two oxen. The people of the state laugh over their education. We do not want (people with) the brains of an ox, but those who can usher in development."

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday said that post-May 23, he will issue an advisory in view of the Lok Sabha poll results and the possibility of subsequent clashes between the workers of the SP and the BSP.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday said that post-May 23, he will issue an advisory in view of the Lok Sabha poll results and the possibility of subsequent clashes between the workers of the SP and the BSP. Addressing a poll meeting here, he said, "On May 23, when the election results are declared, 'bua' (BSP supremo Mayawati) will say 'babua' (SP chief Akhilesh Yadav) is the head of the goons and 'babua' will say 'bua' is the epitome of corruption. This is certain." The Chief Minister said he will not allow any violence in Uttar Pradesh, adding, "We will issue an advisory so that the citizens are not caught in their violence." Hitting out at the political rivals of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Adityanath said, "During the 2017 Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls, (Congress leader) Priyanka Gandhi had talked about the combination of two boys (Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav). "But Uttar Pradesh had said the pair was not of two boys, but of two oxen. The people of the state laugh over their education. We do not want (people with) the brains of an ox, but those who can usher in development."

Will issue advisory post May 23 in view of SP-BSP clashes: UP CM Yogi Adityanath

Lok Sabha polls 2019: All you need to know about rules of campaign financing and spending

Union Minister and BJP candidate from Amethi Lok Sabha seat Smriti Irani on Sunday alleged that Sanjay Gandhi hospital where Congress president Rahul Gandhi and party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi are trustees refused to accept Ayushman card of a poor patient, a charge which was outrightly rejected by the hospital administration.

"I am speechless today. I cannot imagine that one can stoop so low. A poor person was left to die because he had Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Ayushman card but the hospital was of Rahul Gandhi," tweeted Irani along with a 122-second video clip.

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आज मैं निशब्द हूँ - कोई इतना गिर सकता है यह कभी नहीं सोचा था। 
 
एक ग़रीब को सिर्फ़ इसलिए मरने दिया क्यूँकि उसके पास मोदी का आयुष्मान कार्ड था पर अस्पताल राहुल गांधी का था। <a href="https://t.co/fSqEpK5A6S">pic.twitter.com/fSqEpK5A6S</a>
— Chowkidar Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) <a href="https://twitter.com/smritiirani/status/1124946229572657152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In the video, a young man can be heard saying that in Sanjay Gandhi hospital, Dr Sidhartha told him that Ayushman card won't work here because the hospital is run by the Congress and Rahul Gandhi. He had gone there for the treatment of his uncle.

Asked how his uncle is now, the man replies: "He died on April 26 itself." He also claims that the helpline number given on the Ayushman card could not provide the required help.

At the end of the video, a child introduced by the people as the son of the deceased appears.

Irani has demanded "answers" from Rahul and Priyanka for the alleged lapse on the part of the hospital administration.

"The trustees of Sanjay Gandhi Hospital -- Priyanka Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi should reply to the people of Amethi as to why a poor person was killed," she said in a tweet.

The hospital management has rejected these allegations.

SM Choudhary, Director, Sanjay Gandhi Hospital, said: "It is a baseless allegation. We have treated 200 patients under the scheme so far. The concerned patient did not bring the Ayushman Bharat card with him. Under this scheme, a patient cannot be admitted without the card."

Ayushman Bharat is the flagship healthcare scheme launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which covers 10 crore poor families, and entitle them to avail treatment up to Rs 5 lakh at the tertiary level.

Irani is facing Rahul Gandhi from Amethi Lok Sabah seat which is set to go to polls on May 6. Rahul has been winning the seat since 2004. In the last Lok Sabha poll, Rahul defeated Irani in Amethi.

Union Minister and BJP candidate from Amethi Lok Sabha seat Smriti Irani on Sunday alleged that Sanjay Gandhi hospital where Congress president Rahul Gandhi and party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi are trustees refused to accept Ayushman card of a poor patient, a charge which was outrightly rejected by the hospital administration.

Union Minister and BJP candidate from Amethi Lok Sabha seat Smriti Irani on Sunday alleged that Sanjay Gandhi hospital where Congress president Rahul Gandhi and party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi are trustees refused to accept Ayushman card of a poor patient, a charge which was outrightly rejected by the hospital administration. "I am speechless today. I cannot imagine that one can stoop so low. A poor person was left to die because he had Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Ayushman card but the hospital was of Rahul Gandhi," tweeted Irani along with a 122-second video clip. आज मैं निशब्द हूँ - कोई इतना गिर सकता है यह कभी नहीं सोचा था। एक ग़रीब को सिर्फ़ इसलिए मरने दिया क्यूँकि उसके पास मोदी का आयुष्मान कार्ड था पर अस्पताल राहुल गांधी का था। pic.twitter.com/fSqEpK5A6S — Chowkidar Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) May 5, 2019 × In the video, a young man can be heard saying that in Sanjay Gandhi hospital, Dr Sidhartha told him that Ayushman card won't work here because the hospital is run by the Congress and Rahul Gandhi. He had gone there for the treatment of his uncle. Asked how his uncle is now, the man replies: "He died on April 26 itself." He also claims that the helpline number given on the Ayushman card could not provide the required help. At the end of the video, a child introduced by the people as the son of the deceased appears. Irani has demanded "answers" from Rahul and Priyanka for the alleged lapse on the part of the hospital administration. "The trustees of Sanjay Gandhi Hospital -- Priyanka Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi should reply to the people of Amethi as to why a poor person was killed," she said in a tweet. The hospital management has rejected these allegations. SM Choudhary, Director, Sanjay Gandhi Hospital, said: "It is a baseless allegation. We have treated 200 patients under the scheme so far. The concerned patient did not bring the Ayushman Bharat card with him. Under this scheme, a patient cannot be admitted without the card." Ayushman Bharat is the flagship healthcare scheme launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which covers 10 crore poor families, and entitle them to avail treatment up to Rs 5 lakh at the tertiary level. Irani is facing Rahul Gandhi from Amethi Lok Sabah seat which is set to go to polls on May 6. Rahul has been winning the seat since 2004. In the last Lok Sabha poll, Rahul defeated Irani in Amethi.

Hospital with Rahul, Priyanka as trustees reject Ayushman card, says Smriti; hospital administration denies

Admitting that a few local leaders of the party may be "greedy", Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee Sunday urged people not to turn their anger against them into voting against the TMC, claiming that its central leadership is above such vices.

The West Bengal chief minister said her government has showered the impoverished Jangalmahal area, which had once become a den of Maoists, with many benefits and schemes to lift their standard of life.

The Jangalmahal area comprises forested areas of West Midnapore, Purulia and Bankura districts.

"I cannot say 100 per cent workers of my party are good, maybe two per cent is bad and we take action against them," Banerjee said addressing public rallies in three places of Jangalmahal region.

She said a few local leaders in the region have become greedy but they have been identified and thrown out. Banerjee urged people not to leave the TMC and go to the BJP, the Congress or the CPI(M) for the fault of a few.

"Whatever happens, it is the TMC which will remain at your feet and be with you in all your needs and problems," Banerjee said, in a bid to pacify anger among some sections of the people over the phenomenal rise of wealth of a few local TMC leaders.

Banerjee said her nephew Abhishek Banerjee, who is the TMC youth wing president, is in the party because of his concern for her.

"Abhishek was a child when I was badly injured in an attack many years ago. Pained by my sufferings, he would roam about the house shouting slogans against the then chief minister Jyoti Basu seeking an answer on why I was attacked," the TMC supremo said.

Defending Abhishek's rise in the party, she said the new generation should come forward and join politics to give a cleaner political environment.

She said the TMC has ushered in a better life for the impoverished people of Jangalmahal, many of whom could not afford one square meal a day and would eat ants to quell their hunger.

Banerjee said her government is running many welfare schemes - from rice for Rs two per kg to 'Kanyashree' for girl students and 'Utkarsha Bangla' for skill development for the benefit of the people.

The chief minister said her government has succeeded in driving out the Maoists from Jangalmahal and established peace in the region. Claiming that Narendra Modi is the biggest "calamity for the country", she said the country will be saved if he goes.

"The BJP can get a maximum 150 to 160 seats out of 543 in the Lok Sabha," the TMC supremo predicted while asserting that in Bengal, the saffron party will not be able to open its account and all the 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state will go to her party. She accused the saffron party of distributing the money among the people to win votes.

Banerjee claimed that the Narendra Modi government at the Centre has not done anything for the people of the country in its five-year rule and reiterated his accusation that the Prime Minister has only toured foreign countries.

She claimed that demonetisation has claimed at least 100 lives, while farm sector distresses have led to the suicide of 12,000 farmers. "Demonetisation led to the displacement of migrant workers and loss of millions of jobs," she said.

Admitting that a few local leaders of the party may be "greedy", Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee Sunday urged people not to turn their anger against them into voting against the TMC, claiming that its central leadership is above such vices.

Admitting that a few local leaders of the party may be "greedy", Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee Sunday urged people not to turn their anger against them into voting against the TMC, claiming that its central leadership is above such vices. The West Bengal chief minister said her government has showered the impoverished Jangalmahal area, which had once become a den of Maoists, with many benefits and schemes to lift their standard of life. The Jangalmahal area comprises forested areas of West Midnapore, Purulia and Bankura districts. "I cannot say 100 per cent workers of my party are good, maybe two per cent is bad and we take action against them," Banerjee said addressing public rallies in three places of Jangalmahal region. She said a few local leaders in the region have become greedy but they have been identified and thrown out. Banerjee urged people not to leave the TMC and go to the BJP, the Congress or the CPI(M) for the fault of a few. "Whatever happens, it is the TMC which will remain at your feet and be with you in all your needs and problems," Banerjee said, in a bid to pacify anger among some sections of the people over the phenomenal rise of wealth of a few local TMC leaders. Banerjee said her nephew Abhishek Banerjee, who is the TMC youth wing president, is in the party because of his concern for her. "Abhishek was a child when I was badly injured in an attack many years ago. Pained by my sufferings, he would roam about the house shouting slogans against the then chief minister Jyoti Basu seeking an answer on why I was attacked," the TMC supremo said. Defending Abhishek's rise in the party, she said the new generation should come forward and join politics to give a cleaner political environment. She said the TMC has ushered in a better life for the impoverished people of Jangalmahal, many of whom could not afford one square meal a day and would eat ants to quell their hunger. Banerjee said her government is running many welfare schemes - from rice for Rs two per kg to 'Kanyashree' for girl students and 'Utkarsha Bangla' for skill development for the benefit of the people. The chief minister said her government has succeeded in driving out the Maoists from Jangalmahal and established peace in the region. Claiming that Narendra Modi is the biggest "calamity for the country", she said the country will be saved if he goes. "The BJP can get a maximum 150 to 160 seats out of 543 in the Lok Sabha," the TMC supremo predicted while asserting that in Bengal, the saffron party will not be able to open its account and all the 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state will go to her party. She accused the saffron party of distributing the money among the people to win votes. Banerjee claimed that the Narendra Modi government at the Centre has not done anything for the people of the country in its five-year rule and reiterated his accusation that the Prime Minister has only toured foreign countries. She claimed that demonetisation has claimed at least 100 lives, while farm sector distresses have led to the suicide of 12,000 farmers. "Demonetisation led to the displacement of migrant workers and loss of millions of jobs," she said.

Mamata Banerjee urges people not to leave TMC for a few greedy leaders

BJP chief Amit Shah Sunday said the nation's security will remain the saffron party's "supreme priority" as he attacked the opposition including the Congress for allegedly demanding proof of the Balakot air strikes.

Addressing a rally here, Shah also called upon the people to vote for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as Prime Minister Narendra Modi had made the country secure.

"There were only two countries who avenged the killing of their soldiers-- America and Israel. But Modi ji has added the name of India in this list," Shah said referring to the air strikes in Pakistan following the death of 40 CRPF jawans in Pulwama.

Shah lashed out at the opposition especially Congress chief Rahul Gandhi for demanding proof of the air strikes.

"Everybody was celebrating it (Balakot strikes). But there was mourning at two places-- Pakistan and Rahul (Gandhi) baba's office. Modi ji killed Pakistan's terrorists but why were their (opposition) faces pale? Were they (terrorists) related to you?" asked Shah.

"They were worried about their vote bank," he said. "If you have any common sense, see Pakistan TV channels and find out why people there were crying. It will reveal what happened there," he said further.

The BJP president also targeted Congress leader Sam Pitroda, a long-time Gandhi family advisor and a key aide of the Gandhi scion. "Rahul baba's guru Sam Pitroda said do not bomb (Pakistan) but talk to them. People of Panipat, you tell me whether we should talk to them if our 40 jawans are killed?," asked Shah.

The BJP chief further said that the Congress can continue sympathising with the terrorists but "if any bullet is fired from Pakistan, we will reply with a bomb".

"There will never be a compromise on national security. Elections come and go but the BJP will never compromise on national security. Country's security will remain our supreme priority," he said.

Attacking the Congress-led UPA rule of 10 years, Shah alleged that soldiers deployed at the border used to be beheaded by Pakistan but 'Mauni baba', referring to former prime minister Manmohan Singh remained silent.

"I can never forget the incident of the beheading of Hemraj (soldier) but Mauni baba remained mum," he said. "After Pulwama attack in which our 40 jawans were killed, there was anger across the country.

Pakistan secured its border by deploying more soldiers and tanks in anticipation of another surgical strike. But Modi Ji showed his 56-inch chest and the Indian Air Force bombed Balakot," he added.

On January 8, 2013, Lance Naik Hemraj was beheaded by Pakistan's Border Action Team along the Indo-Pak border, triggering a nationwide outrage.

Shah further told the gathering that the BJP government was committed to "throw out" all infiltrators and slammed opposition leaders including Rahul Gandhi, TMC chief Mamata Banerjee, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, CPI leader Sita Ram Yechury among others for opposing the government.

"You tell me should we not throw infiltrators out of our country. Modi ji brought National Register of Citizens (NRC). Assam has 40 lakh infiltrators," he said, adding that the opposition was worried about where the infiltrators will go and what will they eat.

"Rahul baba do these infiltrators who carry out bomb blasts and kill innocents here have human rights? You do not have any concern for those who are killed. These infiltrators are like termites and they should be thrown out," he said.

"I want to tell you from this historic land of Panipat that if you elect Modi ji as PM again, each infiltrator from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and Kolkata to Kutch will be thrown out," he told the crowd.

Shah also condemned National Conference leader Omar Abdullah for suggesting that the nomenclature 'Wazir-e-Azam' (Prime Minister) and 'Sadr-e-Riyasat' (Governor) will be brought back in the state if it is voted to power.

"Omar Abdullah said he wants second prime minister in Kashmir. mar and Congress are fighting polls in alliance. I want to ask Rahul baba whether he agrees with Omar's remarks," Shah said.

"Can there be two PMs in one country? Friends they want to separate Kashmir from the country. But the BJP workers will never allow Kashmir to be separated from India as it an integral part of India. Make us victorious. We have promised that we will scrap Article 370 (granting special status to J-K)," he said.

Seeking support for BJP candidate from Karnal parliamentary seat Sanjay Bhatia, Shah said: "If Modi ji is at the Centre and Manohar Lal Khattar is here, then Haryana will progress. We will make Haryana number one state in the country".

Shah also lashed out at the previous regimes in the state and accused the Congress of indulging in corruption and the INLD led by the Chautalas of failing to curb lawlessness.

BJP chief Amit Shah Sunday said the nation's security will remain the saffron party's "supreme priority" as he attacked the opposition including the Congress for allegedly demanding proof of the Balakot air strikes.

BJP chief Amit Shah Sunday said the nation's security will remain the saffron party's "supreme priority" as he attacked the opposition including the Congress for allegedly demanding proof of the Balakot air strikes. Addressing a rally here, Shah also called upon the people to vote for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as Prime Minister Narendra Modi had made the country secure. "There were only two countries who avenged the killing of their soldiers-- America and Israel. But Modi ji has added the name of India in this list," Shah said referring to the air strikes in Pakistan following the death of 40 CRPF jawans in Pulwama. Shah lashed out at the opposition especially Congress chief Rahul Gandhi for demanding proof of the air strikes. "Everybody was celebrating it (Balakot strikes). But there was mourning at two places-- Pakistan and Rahul (Gandhi) baba's office. Modi ji killed Pakistan's terrorists but why were their (opposition) faces pale? Were they (terrorists) related to you?" asked Shah. "They were worried about their vote bank," he said. "If you have any common sense, see Pakistan TV channels and find out why people there were crying. It will reveal what happened there," he said further. The BJP president also targeted Congress leader Sam Pitroda, a long-time Gandhi family advisor and a key aide of the Gandhi scion. "Rahul baba's guru Sam Pitroda said do not bomb (Pakistan) but talk to them. People of Panipat, you tell me whether we should talk to them if our 40 jawans are killed?," asked Shah. The BJP chief further said that the Congress can continue sympathising with the terrorists but "if any bullet is fired from Pakistan, we will reply with a bomb". "There will never be a compromise on national security. Elections come and go but the BJP will never compromise on national security. Country's security will remain our supreme priority," he said. Attacking the Congress-led UPA rule of 10 years, Shah alleged that soldiers deployed at the border used to be beheaded by Pakistan but 'Mauni baba', referring to former prime minister Manmohan Singh remained silent. "I can never forget the incident of the beheading of Hemraj (soldier) but Mauni baba remained mum," he said. "After Pulwama attack in which our 40 jawans were killed, there was anger across the country. Pakistan secured its border by deploying more soldiers and tanks in anticipation of another surgical strike. But Modi Ji showed his 56-inch chest and the Indian Air Force bombed Balakot," he added. On January 8, 2013, Lance Naik Hemraj was beheaded by Pakistan's Border Action Team along the Indo-Pak border, triggering a nationwide outrage. Shah further told the gathering that the BJP government was committed to "throw out" all infiltrators and slammed opposition leaders including Rahul Gandhi, TMC chief Mamata Banerjee, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, CPI leader Sita Ram Yechury among others for opposing the government. "You tell me should we not throw infiltrators out of our country. Modi ji brought National Register of Citizens (NRC). Assam has 40 lakh infiltrators," he said, adding that the opposition was worried about where the infiltrators will go and what will they eat. "Rahul baba do these infiltrators who carry out bomb blasts and kill innocents here have human rights? You do not have any concern for those who are killed. These infiltrators are like termites and they should be thrown out," he said. "I want to tell you from this historic land of Panipat that if you elect Modi ji as PM again, each infiltrator from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and Kolkata to Kutch will be thrown out," he told the crowd. Shah also condemned National Conference leader Omar Abdullah for suggesting that the nomenclature 'Wazir-e-Azam' (Prime Minister) and 'Sadr-e-Riyasat' (Governor) will be brought back in the state if it is voted to power. "Omar Abdullah said he wants second prime minister in Kashmir. mar and Congress are fighting polls in alliance. I want to ask Rahul baba whether he agrees with Omar's remarks," Shah said. "Can there be two PMs in one country? Friends they want to separate Kashmir from the country. But the BJP workers will never allow Kashmir to be separated from India as it an integral part of India. Make us victorious. We have promised that we will scrap Article 370 (granting special status to J-K)," he said. Seeking support for BJP candidate from Karnal parliamentary seat Sanjay Bhatia, Shah said: "If Modi ji is at the Centre and Manohar Lal Khattar is here, then Haryana will progress. We will make Haryana number one state in the country". Shah also lashed out at the previous regimes in the state and accused the Congress of indulging in corruption and the INLD led by the Chautalas of failing to curb lawlessness.

Nation's security supreme priority for BJP: Amit Shah

Expressing confidence that the opposition alliance will decimate the ruling NDA in Bihar, senior leader Sharad Yadav claimed Sunday that the Modi government is on its way out due to the BJP's poor show in Hindi heartland states such as Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.

Yadav, who is contesting the Lok Sabha poll from Madhepura in Bihar as an RJD candidate, asserted that polarisation of most of the backward castes, Dalits and Muslims have taken place in favour of the opposition alliance in the state.

The alliance of the Lalu Prasad Yadav's RJD, Congress and Upendra Kushwaha's RLSP among others will clinch as many seats as the NDA had in 2014, Sharad Yadav told PTI in an interview, asserting that there is anger among the poor due to agrarian distress.

The NDA had won 31 Lok Sabha seats in 2014 in Bihar, while the opposition alliance had got nine.

Yadav dismissed the claims of top BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, that the NDA is set to retain power at the Centre. He alleged a section of media has been "used" by the BJP leaders to "beat their drums" but the reality on the ground is vastly different from what is shown on TV.

"Where is the BJP winning? Their seats will be reduced significantly in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. The SP-BSP alliance is far ahead of them in UP. They are losing in Bihar and also in Jharkhand. That the Modi government will be out of power on May 23 is certain," he said.

Four phases of the seven-phase general election have been held so far and the counting of votes is scheduled for May 23.

Asked about the BJP's campaign plank of nationalism and national security, Yadav alleged the nationalism for the saffron party is all about Hindu-Muslim issues under the garb of Kashmir and Pakistan.

"Their nationalism is all sentiments and exclude people. Are farmers' welfare, employment for youths and reducing poverty of Dalits and backwards not nationalism? But it is of no concern to the BJP," Yadav said.

India had divided Pakistan in 1971 and its forces had marched closer to Lahore in 1965 under the Congress governments, he said, adding that Sikkim had merged with India in 1975 when Indira Gandhi was prime minister.

"This is nationalism. What is their nationalism? It is all Hindu-Musalman for them," he said, attacking the BJP.

He alleged the Modi government's policies have caused massive distress among farmers and the farmers in Bihar were forced to sell maize for as low as Rs 900 per quintal against its MSP of close to Rs 1425.

The government's claim of 'Vikas' (development) is a sham, he alleged, adding that unemployment, lack of opportunities and farm distress will result in the BJP's loss. Demonetisation caused a loss of over four crore jobs, he alleged.

In Bihar, he said the entry of leaders like Upendra Kushwaha, Jitan Ram Manjhi and Mukesh Sahni has broadened the base of the opposition alliance and led to a consolidation of Dalit and backward castes in its favour.

Expressing confidence that the opposition alliance will decimate the ruling NDA in Bihar, senior leader Sharad Yadav claimed Sunday that the Modi government is on its way out due to the BJP's poor show in Hindi heartland states such as Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.

Expressing confidence that the opposition alliance will decimate the ruling NDA in Bihar, senior leader Sharad Yadav claimed Sunday that the Modi government is on its way out due to the BJP's poor show in Hindi heartland states such as Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Yadav, who is contesting the Lok Sabha poll from Madhepura in Bihar as an RJD candidate, asserted that polarisation of most of the backward castes, Dalits and Muslims have taken place in favour of the opposition alliance in the state. The alliance of the Lalu Prasad Yadav's RJD, Congress and Upendra Kushwaha's RLSP among others will clinch as many seats as the NDA had in 2014, Sharad Yadav told PTI in an interview, asserting that there is anger among the poor due to agrarian distress. The NDA had won 31 Lok Sabha seats in 2014 in Bihar, while the opposition alliance had got nine. Yadav dismissed the claims of top BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, that the NDA is set to retain power at the Centre. He alleged a section of media has been "used" by the BJP leaders to "beat their drums" but the reality on the ground is vastly different from what is shown on TV. "Where is the BJP winning? Their seats will be reduced significantly in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. The SP-BSP alliance is far ahead of them in UP. They are losing in Bihar and also in Jharkhand. That the Modi government will be out of power on May 23 is certain," he said. Four phases of the seven-phase general election have been held so far and the counting of votes is scheduled for May 23. Asked about the BJP's campaign plank of nationalism and national security, Yadav alleged the nationalism for the saffron party is all about Hindu-Muslim issues under the garb of Kashmir and Pakistan. "Their nationalism is all sentiments and exclude people. Are farmers' welfare, employment for youths and reducing poverty of Dalits and backwards not nationalism? But it is of no concern to the BJP," Yadav said. India had divided Pakistan in 1971 and its forces had marched closer to Lahore in 1965 under the Congress governments, he said, adding that Sikkim had merged with India in 1975 when Indira Gandhi was prime minister. "This is nationalism. What is their nationalism? It is all Hindu-Musalman for them," he said, attacking the BJP. He alleged the Modi government's policies have caused massive distress among farmers and the farmers in Bihar were forced to sell maize for as low as Rs 900 per quintal against its MSP of close to Rs 1425. The government's claim of 'Vikas' (development) is a sham, he alleged, adding that unemployment, lack of opportunities and farm distress will result in the BJP's loss. Demonetisation caused a loss of over four crore jobs, he alleged. In Bihar, he said the entry of leaders like Upendra Kushwaha, Jitan Ram Manjhi and Mukesh Sahni has broadened the base of the opposition alliance and led to a consolidation of Dalit and backward castes in its favour.

Polarisation among most backward castes, Dalits, Muslims in favour of Opposition alliance: Sharad Yadav

Railway Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s diplomacy and friendly relations with world leaders helped in the designation of<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/masood-azhar-named-global-terrorist-how-it-will-affect-the-jem-chief-215077&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwia_cG2vP_hAhUJq48KHWXBDP8QFjAEegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0sBSU1xJ9Dy_7hHCEmAilB"> Masood Azhar </a>by the United Nations as an international terrorist.

"PM Modi used diplomacy to deal with terrorism and his friendly relations with popular leaders of the globe have helped India in getting the<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-members-should-abide-by-un-sanctions-committees-decision-on-masood-azhar-un-chief-antonio-guterres-215365&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiQ36XkvP_hAhXLuo8KHW1xCZ04ChAWMAF6BAgQEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw2VK9jYaH09xJCRkAP8ITnY"> United Nations (UN)</a> designate Masood Azhar as an international terrorist," he said addressing a press conference.&nbsp;

Praising Modi, Goyal said, "India`s emerging power in economy, diplomacy and the fight against terrorism should be credited to PM Modi and his leadership. The process of designating Masood Azhar as a global terrorist started in 2009 but Congress` leadership was weak. Today every citizen is proud that India has emerged as a powerful nation under PM Modi-led NDA government."

"Those who doubt and raise questions on surgical strikes and Balakot airstrike find themselves standing for the terrorists, unfortunately," he added.

Goyal said, "BJP always supported the fight against terrorism no matter whose government it was. We hope that opposition never let down India`s pride and defeat the intentions of terrorists...Even while in opposition, former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee went to UN (for India`s campaign) against terrorism. But now the opposition leaders are questioning our army and government, which is very unfortunate."

Commenting on <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-moment-when-cyclone-fani-made-landfall-215559&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiflNL0vP_hAhXBvI8KHUicBn8QFjAFegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0jFujC6aus5gFO5GpITN2t">Cyclone Fani</a>, the Railway minister said, "Cyclone Fani is considered the most dangerous in the past four decades. We pray for safety for all in Odisha and West Bengal."

The Centre has discussed with state governments and will provide all possible help.&nbsp;

On being asked who will win in the Lok Sabha elections from Amethi, Goyal said, "BJP candidate from Amethi Smriti Irani will win and Congress president Rahul Gandhi has become a challenger instead."

He said, "Congress party is for the rich while BJP works for every section of society including the middle class...Under the Congress party, there were massive scams that made the country weak."

He questioned, "Why a businessman gives Rs 4 to 5 lakh as rent for Rahul Gandhi`s Rs 1 crore farmhouse. The company paying rent was scam-tainted and was under investigation in 2012-13. Rahul Gandhi should tell this to the people of Amethi and Wayanad."

Railway Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s diplomacy and friendly relations with world leaders helped in the designation of Masood Azhar by the United Nations as an international terrorist.

Railway Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s diplomacy and friendly relations with world leaders helped in the designation of Masood Azhar by the United Nations as an international terrorist. "PM Modi used diplomacy to deal with terrorism and his friendly relations with popular leaders of the globe have helped India in getting the United Nations (UN) designate Masood Azhar as an international terrorist," he said addressing a press conference. Praising Modi, Goyal said, "India`s emerging power in economy, diplomacy and the fight against terrorism should be credited to PM Modi and his leadership. The process of designating Masood Azhar as a global terrorist started in 2009 but Congress` leadership was weak. Today every citizen is proud that India has emerged as a powerful nation under PM Modi-led NDA government." "Those who doubt and raise questions on surgical strikes and Balakot airstrike find themselves standing for the terrorists, unfortunately," he added. Goyal said, "BJP always supported the fight against terrorism no matter whose government it was. We hope that opposition never let down India`s pride and defeat the intentions of terrorists...Even while in opposition, former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee went to UN (for India`s campaign) against terrorism. But now the opposition leaders are questioning our army and government, which is very unfortunate." Commenting on Cyclone Fani, the Railway minister said, "Cyclone Fani is considered the most dangerous in the past four decades. We pray for safety for all in Odisha and West Bengal." The Centre has discussed with state governments and will provide all possible help. On being asked who will win in the Lok Sabha elections from Amethi, Goyal said, "BJP candidate from Amethi Smriti Irani will win and Congress president Rahul Gandhi has become a challenger instead." He said, "Congress party is for the rich while BJP works for every section of society including the middle class...Under the Congress party, there were massive scams that made the country weak." He questioned, "Why a businessman gives Rs 4 to 5 lakh as rent for Rahul Gandhi`s Rs 1 crore farmhouse. The company paying rent was scam-tainted and was under investigation in 2012-13. Rahul Gandhi should tell this to the people of Amethi and Wayanad."

PM Modi's diplomacy helped in Azhar's designation as global terrorist: Piyush Goyal

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday took to Twitter to inform that she has cancelled all her election rallies for the next two days in the wake of `impending` <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/puri-hit-with-wind-speed-of-240-245-kmph-cyclone-fani-moving-towards-west-bengal-coast-imd-215613&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjE1MHL9f7hAhVa7XMBHV9sAYsQFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1qLpDJ26kI5Apaiqz828tR">Cyclone Fani</a> in her home state.

"Have cancelled my rallies for the next 48 hours because of what could be an impending disaster #CyclonicStormFANI We are monitoring the situation 24x7 and doing all it takes. I appeal to all people to cooperate. Be alert, take care and stay safe for the next two days," she tweeted.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Have cancelled my rallies for the next 48 hours because of what could be an impending disaster <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CyclonicStormFANI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CyclonicStormFANI</a> We are monitoring the situation 24x7 and doing all it takes. I appeal to all people to cooperate. Be alert, take care and stay safe for the next two days
— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial/status/1124173080081731584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Banerjee will stay in Kharagpur in West Bengal, near the coastal belt and monitor the situation herself.

Earlier in the day, Odisha and adjoining regions were battered by the extremely <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-apepdcl-cautions-public-to-be-alert-on-possible-power-accidents-215534&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjE1MHL9f7hAhVa7XMBHV9sAYsQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1E4dEbQRVfhNr4mmv639WE">severe cyclonic storm Fani</a> which made landfall in Puri district with a wind speed of around 245 kmph, according to Hyderabad IMD.

India Meteorological Department (IMD) tweeted: "The extremely severe cyclonic storm "Fani" is very likely to move north-northeastwards and weaken into a very severe cyclonic storm during next 6 hours."

The landfall began on Friday morning at 8 am with strong winds and rain hitting Puri district.

Helpline number - 1938 - has been made operational by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

Indian Coast Guard has positioned 34 disaster relief teams at Visakhapatnam, Chennai, Paradip, Gopalpur, Haldia, Frazergunj and Kolkata besides four ships at Visakhapatnam and Chennai.

The system is likely to continue to move north-northeastwards, weaken gradually and emerge into Gangetic West Bengal as a "severe cyclonic storm" by the early morning of May 4.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday took to Twitter to inform that she has cancelled all her election rallies for the next two days in the wake of `impending` Cyclone Fani in her home state.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday took to Twitter to inform that she has cancelled all her election rallies for the next two days in the wake of `impending` Cyclone Fani in her home state. "Have cancelled my rallies for the next 48 hours because of what could be an impending disaster #CyclonicStormFANI We are monitoring the situation 24x7 and doing all it takes. I appeal to all people to cooperate. Be alert, take care and stay safe for the next two days," she tweeted. Have cancelled my rallies for the next 48 hours because of what could be an impending disaster #CyclonicStormFANI We are monitoring the situation 24x7 and doing all it takes. I appeal to all people to cooperate. Be alert, take care and stay safe for the next two days — Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) May 3, 2019 × Banerjee will stay in Kharagpur in West Bengal, near the coastal belt and monitor the situation herself. Earlier in the day, Odisha and adjoining regions were battered by the extremely severe cyclonic storm Fani which made landfall in Puri district with a wind speed of around 245 kmph, according to Hyderabad IMD. India Meteorological Department (IMD) tweeted: "The extremely severe cyclonic storm "Fani" is very likely to move north-northeastwards and weaken into a very severe cyclonic storm during next 6 hours." The landfall began on Friday morning at 8 am with strong winds and rain hitting Puri district. Helpline number - 1938 - has been made operational by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Indian Coast Guard has positioned 34 disaster relief teams at Visakhapatnam, Chennai, Paradip, Gopalpur, Haldia, Frazergunj and Kolkata besides four ships at Visakhapatnam and Chennai. The system is likely to continue to move north-northeastwards, weaken gradually and emerge into Gangetic West Bengal as a "severe cyclonic storm" by the early morning of May 4.

Cyclone Fani: Mamata Banerjee cancels rallies for next 2 days to monitor situation

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/rahul-kejriwal-cried-like-their-cousins-were-killed-in-balakot-airstrike-amit-shah-in-delhi-rally-215274&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjsrqKm9v7hAhXj7XMBHcQJCEcQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3OTV4RR9SKzxl_GhuejlTZ">BJP president Amit Shahs </a>three election rallies in Jharkhand on Friday have been cancelled due to the cyclonic storm Fani which slammed the coast of neighbouring Odisha, a party leader said here.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das, Bihar Health Minister Mangal Pandey and Ajsu party president and former deputy chief minister Sudesh Mahto will address the rallies, BJP Jharkhand unit Spokesman Pradip Sinha said here.

"The election rallies by party president Amit Shah Ji in Koderma, Khunti and Ranchi have been cancelled,"&nbsp;Sinha said in Ranchi.

Shah was scheduled to address the rallies ahead of the May 6 polling for the three Lok Sabha seats.

While former Jharkhand chief minister Arjun Munda is BJPs candidate from Khunti Lok Sabha constituency and pitted against Kalicharan Munda of the Congress, Sanjay Seth of the saffron party is fighting against former Union minister and Congress candidate Subodh Kant Sahay in the Ranchi seat.

The BJP has fielded Annapurna Devi from Koderma against Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (Prajatantrik) candidate and former chief minister Babulal Marandi.

Jharkhand's bordering districts like Dumka, East and West Singhbhum are on alert following the cyclonic storm Fani hitting the Odisha coast.

The administration has issued orders for closure of schools in the districts bordering Odisha.

BJP president Amit Shahs three election rallies in Jharkhand on Friday have been cancelled due to the cyclonic storm Fani which slammed the coast of neighbouring Odisha, a party leader said here.

BJP president Amit Shahs three election rallies in Jharkhand on Friday have been cancelled due to the cyclonic storm Fani which slammed the coast of neighbouring Odisha, a party leader said here. Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das, Bihar Health Minister Mangal Pandey and Ajsu party president and former deputy chief minister Sudesh Mahto will address the rallies, BJP Jharkhand unit Spokesman Pradip Sinha said here. "The election rallies by party president Amit Shah Ji in Koderma, Khunti and Ranchi have been cancelled," Sinha said in Ranchi. Shah was scheduled to address the rallies ahead of the May 6 polling for the three Lok Sabha seats. While former Jharkhand chief minister Arjun Munda is BJPs candidate from Khunti Lok Sabha constituency and pitted against Kalicharan Munda of the Congress, Sanjay Seth of the saffron party is fighting against former Union minister and Congress candidate Subodh Kant Sahay in the Ranchi seat. The BJP has fielded Annapurna Devi from Koderma against Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (Prajatantrik) candidate and former chief minister Babulal Marandi. Jharkhand's bordering districts like Dumka, East and West Singhbhum are on alert following the cyclonic storm Fani hitting the Odisha coast. The administration has issued orders for closure of schools in the districts bordering Odisha.

Amit Shah's election rallies in Jharkhand cancelled due to cyclone Fani

Hitting out at Union Minister Vijay Goel after he claimed that 14 AAP MLAs were in touch with the BJP, willing to switch sides, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said it is not easy to buy <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/alka-lamba-skips-kejriwals-roadshow-says-she-was-insulted-by-aap-215343&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiG7tqi-P7hAhUL_XMBHfAlD8UQFjAEegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0d0vud-oFNqwv7A9w_GCkd">AAP</a> leaders.

Taking a dig at Goyal, Kejriwal tweeted,&nbsp;"Goyal Sahib, baat kahan phasi hai? Aap kitna de rahe ho? Woh kitna mang rahe hain. (Where are you facing a deadlock? How much are you paying? How much are they demanding?)"

"Modi ji, will you topple every government run by an opposition party by buying MLAs in the respective states? Is this your definition of democracy? And from where do you bring so much money to buy MLAs? You have tried to buy our MLA many times. Buying AAP leaders is not easy at all," the Chief Minister asserted in another tweet.

On Thursday, Goel had said, "14 AAP MLAs want to leave the party because the party has gone astray from its objectives but the BJP does not need to buy these MLAs. Allegations of the BJP offering Rs 10 crores are false.''

All 7 Lok Sabha seats in Delhi will go to polls in a single phase on May 12.

General elections in the country have been scheduled to be held in seven phases starting from April 11 and ending on May 19.

Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Hitting out at Union Minister Vijay Goel after he claimed that 14 AAP MLAs were in touch with the BJP, willing to switch sides, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said it is not easy to buy AAP leaders.

Hitting out at Union Minister Vijay Goel after he claimed that 14 AAP MLAs were in touch with the BJP, willing to switch sides, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said it is not easy to buy AAP leaders. Taking a dig at Goyal, Kejriwal tweeted, "Goyal Sahib, baat kahan phasi hai? Aap kitna de rahe ho? Woh kitna mang rahe hain. (Where are you facing a deadlock? How much are you paying? How much are they demanding?)" "Modi ji, will you topple every government run by an opposition party by buying MLAs in the respective states? Is this your definition of democracy? And from where do you bring so much money to buy MLAs? You have tried to buy our MLA many times. Buying AAP leaders is not easy at all," the Chief Minister asserted in another tweet. On Thursday, Goel had said, "14 AAP MLAs want to leave the party because the party has gone astray from its objectives but the BJP does not need to buy these MLAs. Allegations of the BJP offering Rs 10 crores are false.'' All 7 Lok Sabha seats in Delhi will go to polls in a single phase on May 12. General elections in the country have been scheduled to be held in seven phases starting from April 11 and ending on May 19. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

It's not easy to buy AAP leaders, says Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal

BJP chief Amit Shah Thursday claimed the Congress and National Conference wanted Kashmir's separation from India and vowed to scrap Article 370 if his party is voted back to power.

Shah addressed three rallies in Madhya Pradesh, where three phases of Lok Sabha polls are yet to be held.

Speaking at Ashta in Dewas Lok Sabha constituency, Shah said, "If elected to power again, Article 370 (which gives a special status to Jammu and Kashmir) will be wiped out from its roots."

On National Conference leader Omar Abdullah's demand for a separate PM for J&amp;K, Shah said the Congress also wanted a separate PM for Kashmir. 
"The Congress and the National Conference wanted to separate Kashmir from Hindustan. But the Modi government will never allow secession (of J&amp;K) from India," he said.

Even if Modi did not return to power, BJP workers will not allow Kashmir to secede, he said. "No BJP worker will let such a thing happen. We will scrap Article 370 if you make Modi the PM again," he added.

On Congress' promise to scrap the sedition law, he said, "The Congress is siding with those who shouted anti- national slogans. You talk about scrapping the sedition law. Tell me, if someone is caught spying for Pakistan, should action be taken under sedition law or not?"

"Anti-national slogans like 'Bharat Tere Tukde Honge' were shouted in JNU (Jawaharlal Nehru University) Shouldn't these people be sent to jail?" he said.

Shah slammed Congress leader Sam Pitroda's statement that India should hold talks with Pakistan.

"Rahul Baba's (Congress president Rahul Gandhi) guru Sam Pitroda made a statement...Tell me, should we talk to those who killed our 40 jawans or should we attack them? Congress says we should talk to them. Rahul Baba, you be happy with your policy. This is Narendra Modi government which will reply to gun fire with a bombshell," the BJP leader said.

Shah said people should not vote for the party for development if they so wish, but they must vote for Modi as he strengthened the country's security.

Speaking at Biora in Rajgarh district, Shah credited Modi for the UN Security Council designating JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. 
"Masood Azhar carried out several bomb blasts for several years. Nobody could get him declared an international terrorist. But yesterday was a golden day as he was declared a global terrorist," he said.

"Narendra Modi has isolated Pakistan in the world with his diplomacy. The entire world now stands with India and is supporting our country on the issue of (actions are taken in) self-defence," Shah said.

"During the UPA rule, there would be no response to terror attacks. After the Pulwama terror attack, there was anger and despair...But prime minister Narendra Modi ordered the IAF (to respond), which went deep inside Pakistan and destroyed terror camps," the BJP chief said.

"When the country was rejoicing (over the air strikes), there was mourning in two places - in Pakistan and in Rahul Gandhi-led Congress. Should we not bomb the perpetrators of the Pulwama attack," he asked.

Listing achievements of the NDA government such as the Ayushman Bharat scheme, Shah said, "I have seen Modi not taking a single day's leave in the last 20 years...He works 18 out of 24 hours for 365 days...On the other hand, Rahul Gandhi takes a long leave as temperature soar. Even his mother keeps searching for him."

Taking potshots at the Congress government in Madhya Pradesh, Shah alleged that within three months of it coming to power, transactions worth Rs 281 crore were unearthed during income tax raids at the premises of those close to chief minister Kamal Nath, and asked what will happen in five years.

Addressing a rally at Neemuch, Shah said under the Narendra Modi regime, a bullet fired by Pakistan will be met with a shell from India's side.

The Manmohan Singh government did not say a word when terrorists from Pakistan "beheaded Indian jawans", he alleged.

He alleged that the entire country celebrated India's retaliation in Balakot after the Pulwama terror attack, but Congress leaders were sad because "their vote-bank was sad".

"This is a BJP government. Narendra Modi is prime minister. If a bullet is fired from Pakistan, India will respond with a (bomb) shell," he said.&nbsp;

BJP chief Amit Shah Thursday claimed the Congress and National Conference wanted Kashmir's separation from India and vowed to scrap Article 370 if his party is voted back to power.

BJP chief Amit Shah Thursday claimed the Congress and National Conference wanted Kashmir's separation from India and vowed to scrap Article 370 if his party is voted back to power. Shah addressed three rallies in Madhya Pradesh, where three phases of Lok Sabha polls are yet to be held. Speaking at Ashta in Dewas Lok Sabha constituency, Shah said, "If elected to power again, Article 370 (which gives a special status to Jammu and Kashmir) will be wiped out from its roots." On National Conference leader Omar Abdullah's demand for a separate PM for J&K, Shah said the Congress also wanted a separate PM for Kashmir. "The Congress and the National Conference wanted to separate Kashmir from Hindustan. But the Modi government will never allow secession (of J&K) from India," he said. Even if Modi did not return to power, BJP workers will not allow Kashmir to secede, he said. "No BJP worker will let such a thing happen. We will scrap Article 370 if you make Modi the PM again," he added. On Congress' promise to scrap the sedition law, he said, "The Congress is siding with those who shouted anti- national slogans. You talk about scrapping the sedition law. Tell me, if someone is caught spying for Pakistan, should action be taken under sedition law or not?" "Anti-national slogans like 'Bharat Tere Tukde Honge' were shouted in JNU (Jawaharlal Nehru University) Shouldn't these people be sent to jail?" he said. Shah slammed Congress leader Sam Pitroda's statement that India should hold talks with Pakistan. "Rahul Baba's (Congress president Rahul Gandhi) guru Sam Pitroda made a statement...Tell me, should we talk to those who killed our 40 jawans or should we attack them? Congress says we should talk to them. Rahul Baba, you be happy with your policy. This is Narendra Modi government which will reply to gun fire with a bombshell," the BJP leader said. Shah said people should not vote for the party for development if they so wish, but they must vote for Modi as he strengthened the country's security. Speaking at Biora in Rajgarh district, Shah credited Modi for the UN Security Council designating JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. "Masood Azhar carried out several bomb blasts for several years. Nobody could get him declared an international terrorist. But yesterday was a golden day as he was declared a global terrorist," he said. "Narendra Modi has isolated Pakistan in the world with his diplomacy. The entire world now stands with India and is supporting our country on the issue of (actions are taken in) self-defence," Shah said. "During the UPA rule, there would be no response to terror attacks. After the Pulwama terror attack, there was anger and despair...But prime minister Narendra Modi ordered the IAF (to respond), which went deep inside Pakistan and destroyed terror camps," the BJP chief said. "When the country was rejoicing (over the air strikes), there was mourning in two places - in Pakistan and in Rahul Gandhi-led Congress. Should we not bomb the perpetrators of the Pulwama attack," he asked. Listing achievements of the NDA government such as the Ayushman Bharat scheme, Shah said, "I have seen Modi not taking a single day's leave in the last 20 years...He works 18 out of 24 hours for 365 days...On the other hand, Rahul Gandhi takes a long leave as temperature soar. Even his mother keeps searching for him." Taking potshots at the Congress government in Madhya Pradesh, Shah alleged that within three months of it coming to power, transactions worth Rs 281 crore were unearthed during income tax raids at the premises of those close to chief minister Kamal Nath, and asked what will happen in five years. Addressing a rally at Neemuch, Shah said under the Narendra Modi regime, a bullet fired by Pakistan will be met with a shell from India's side. The Manmohan Singh government did not say a word when terrorists from Pakistan "beheaded Indian jawans", he alleged. He alleged that the entire country celebrated India's retaliation in Balakot after the Pulwama terror attack, but Congress leaders were sad because "their vote-bank was sad". "This is a BJP government. Narendra Modi is prime minister. If a bullet is fired from Pakistan, India will respond with a (bomb) shell," he said.

Congress wants to separate Kashmir from India: Amit Shah

The Pulwama and Shopian districts of South Kashmir are slated to go to polls in the three-phase schedule for Anantnag Parliamentary constituency on May 06, 2019.

Over 5.22 lakh electors are going to exercise their franchise in the twin districts spread over six assembly segments comprising Tral, Pampore, Pulwama, Rajpora, Wachi and Shopian. As many as 695 polling stations have been established across the districts for smooth conduct of the elections.

“These Southern Kashmir Districts have 522,530 electors including 271,127 males, 250,735 females, 657 service electors (646 males and 11 females) and 11 transgender voters,” an official from the administration said.&nbsp;

For smooth polling, the ECI has set up 450 polling stations across the Pulwama district. The comprises four assembly segments of Tral, Pampore, Pulwama and Rajpora.

“Similarly, Shopian District has 171,216 electors including 89,868 males, 81,227 females, 116 service electors (113 male and 03 female) and five transgender voters. For smooth polling, the ECI has set up 245 polling stations across the district,” he said.&nbsp;

The candidates in the fray are Hasnain Masoodi of Jammu Kashmir National Conference, Sofi Yousuf of Bhartiya Janta Party, Ghulam Ahmad Mir of Indian National Congress, Mehbooba Mufti among others.

The Anantnag Parliamentary Constituency is spread over four districts comprising Anantnag, Kulgam, Shopian and Pulwama.

The Anantnag and Kulgam districts of Anantnag PC went to polls on April 23 and April 29 respectively. The voting timing has been fixed from 7 am to 4 pm.

The Pulwama and Shopian districts of South Kashmir are slated to go to polls in the three-phase schedule for Anantnag Parliamentary constituency on May 06, 2019.

The Pulwama and Shopian districts of South Kashmir are slated to go to polls in the three-phase schedule for Anantnag Parliamentary constituency on May 06, 2019. Over 5.22 lakh electors are going to exercise their franchise in the twin districts spread over six assembly segments comprising Tral, Pampore, Pulwama, Rajpora, Wachi and Shopian. As many as 695 polling stations have been established across the districts for smooth conduct of the elections. “These Southern Kashmir Districts have 522,530 electors including 271,127 males, 250,735 females, 657 service electors (646 males and 11 females) and 11 transgender voters,” an official from the administration said. For smooth polling, the ECI has set up 450 polling stations across the Pulwama district. The comprises four assembly segments of Tral, Pampore, Pulwama and Rajpora. “Similarly, Shopian District has 171,216 electors including 89,868 males, 81,227 females, 116 service electors (113 male and 03 female) and five transgender voters. For smooth polling, the ECI has set up 245 polling stations across the district,” he said. The candidates in the fray are Hasnain Masoodi of Jammu Kashmir National Conference, Sofi Yousuf of Bhartiya Janta Party, Ghulam Ahmad Mir of Indian National Congress, Mehbooba Mufti among others. The Anantnag Parliamentary Constituency is spread over four districts comprising Anantnag, Kulgam, Shopian and Pulwama. The Anantnag and Kulgam districts of Anantnag PC went to polls on April 23 and April 29 respectively. The voting timing has been fixed from 7 am to 4 pm.

Over 5.22 lakh voters in J&K's Pulwama and Shopian districts to cast their votes on May 6

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/sunny-deol-files-nomination-from-gurdaspur-seat-214357&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj3lbjv9_zhAhWM7HMBHR8oD9IQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1aKTeAPI063GbIs-Hqo8d-">&nbsp;Actor Sunny Deol</a>, the BJP candidate from the Gurdaspur Lok Sabha seat, Thursday offered prayers at the Gurdwara Dera Baba Nanak here before hitting the campaign trail.

The national film award winner for movies "Ghayal" and "Damini" is pitted against sitting MP and Congress candidate Sunil Jakhar, AAP's Peter Masih and PDA's Lal Chand in the electoral fight from Gurdaspur seat.

Accompanied by BJP leader Kamal Sharma, Deol offered prayers at the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/500-year-old-well-discovered-near-gurdwara-on-kartarpur-corridor-in-pakistan-214166&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjI7uvh9_zhAhXN73MBHV3CCuAQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw14gJ7NkuN3L7BgbKCBhfO0">Gurdwara Dera Baba Nanak</a> and had a glimpse of the Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib in Narowal district of Pakistan through binoculars installed at 'darshan sthal' here.

Kartarpur Sahib is located in Pakistan's Narowal district across the river Ravi, about four kilometres from the Dera Baba Nanak shrine.

Both India and Pakistan had agreed to build the Kartarpur corridor to facilitate devotees to offer prayers at the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib- the final resting place of the founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak Dev- in the Pakistani town of Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak in Punjab's Gurdaspur district.

He also went to Prachin Shiv Temple in Kalanaur in Gurdaspur to offer prayers.

It was a tough time for security personnel to tackle the crowds who were keen to meet the Bollywood actor and get photos clicked with him at the Shiv temple.

For a brief period, Deol appeared through sunroof panel of his vehicle and accepted flowers bouquet and garlands from the people gathered to have a glimpse of him.

Deol will take out a road show from here later in the day.

It will pass through several areas including Pathankot, Bhoa and Sarna.

He returned to Gurdaspur from Mumbai on Wednesday and met families of martyrs at Shadipur village in Dinanagar here.

"I have already said that you stay in my heart.

I want to work towards meeting all your needs and requirements.

I am not saying just for the sake of making a statement.

I want everyone to be happy and have a smile on their face," Deol had said on Wednesday night.

"Hindustan Zindabad hai, Zindabad rahega," he said before ending his speech.

All the 13 seats of Punjab will go to polls on May 19.

Meanwhile, Congress nominee and sitting MP Sunil Jakhar Thursday dared Deol for holding a debate with him on issues concerning the Gurdaspur constituency.

"Welcome back to Gurdaspur, @iamsunnydeol.

Before you leave again for Mumbai, Would once again like to invite you to debate various issues concerning this border belt, whenever it is convenient for you," Jakhar tweeted.

Jakhar had won the seat in the 2017 bypoll which was necessitated after the death of Vinod Khanna in April that year.

Khanna had represented the seat four times in the Lok Sabha.

Actor Sunny Deol, the BJP candidate from the Gurdaspur Lok Sabha seat, Thursday offered prayers at the Gurdwara Dera Baba Nanak here before hitting the campaign trail.

Actor Sunny Deol, the BJP candidate from the Gurdaspur Lok Sabha seat, Thursday offered prayers at the Gurdwara Dera Baba Nanak here before hitting the campaign trail. The national film award winner for movies "Ghayal" and "Damini" is pitted against sitting MP and Congress candidate Sunil Jakhar, AAP's Peter Masih and PDA's Lal Chand in the electoral fight from Gurdaspur seat. Accompanied by BJP leader Kamal Sharma, Deol offered prayers at the Gurdwara Dera Baba Nanak and had a glimpse of the Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib in Narowal district of Pakistan through binoculars installed at 'darshan sthal' here. Kartarpur Sahib is located in Pakistan's Narowal district across the river Ravi, about four kilometres from the Dera Baba Nanak shrine. Both India and Pakistan had agreed to build the Kartarpur corridor to facilitate devotees to offer prayers at the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib- the final resting place of the founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak Dev- in the Pakistani town of Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak in Punjab's Gurdaspur district. He also went to Prachin Shiv Temple in Kalanaur in Gurdaspur to offer prayers. It was a tough time for security personnel to tackle the crowds who were keen to meet the Bollywood actor and get photos clicked with him at the Shiv temple. For a brief period, Deol appeared through sunroof panel of his vehicle and accepted flowers bouquet and garlands from the people gathered to have a glimpse of him. Deol will take out a road show from here later in the day. It will pass through several areas including Pathankot, Bhoa and Sarna. He returned to Gurdaspur from Mumbai on Wednesday and met families of martyrs at Shadipur village in Dinanagar here. "I have already said that you stay in my heart. I want to work towards meeting all your needs and requirements. I am not saying just for the sake of making a statement. I want everyone to be happy and have a smile on their face," Deol had said on Wednesday night. "Hindustan Zindabad hai, Zindabad rahega," he said before ending his speech. All the 13 seats of Punjab will go to polls on May 19. Meanwhile, Congress nominee and sitting MP Sunil Jakhar Thursday dared Deol for holding a debate with him on issues concerning the Gurdaspur constituency. "Welcome back to Gurdaspur, @iamsunnydeol. Before you leave again for Mumbai, Would once again like to invite you to debate various issues concerning this border belt, whenever it is convenient for you," Jakhar tweeted. Jakhar had won the seat in the 2017 bypoll which was necessitated after the death of Vinod Khanna in April that year. Khanna had represented the seat four times in the Lok Sabha.

Sunny Deol offers prayers at Dera Baba Nanak Gurdwara

The NCP is considering taking the<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/poll-officials-grant-permission-to-thackeray-led-mns-mumbai-south-rally-212424&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjghaf4_fzhAhXM8HMBHexbDTAQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw13bRjxm-MOfy7nW-_tKQkd"> Maharashtra Navnirman Sena</a> (MNS) onboard for the Maharashtra Assembly elections, sources in the Sharad Pawar-led party have said.

Assembly polls are due in the state later this year.

The Raj Thackeray-led party was not part of the `grand alliance' stitched by the Congress and NCP with smaller parties for the ongoing Lok Sabha polls.

The NCP was keen on an alliance with the MNS, but the Congress reportedly had reservations, fearing a backlash in the Hindi heartland due to the MNS' anti-North Indian stand.

The MNS is not contesting the ongoing Lok Sabha polls.

Thackeray, however, addressed several rallies in the state during the first four phases, attacking Prime Minister Narendra Modi and appealing people not to vote for the BJP.

"The Congress was concerned about aligning with the MNS during general elections due to latter's anti-North Indian posturing. But that should not be a concern in the state polls," an NCP leader said.

The possibility of the NCP allotting MNS some seats from its quota (as part of the alliance with the Congress) could not be ruled out, he said.

The MNS, he said, can influence voters in around 30 Assembly segments.

"The MNS put up a good show in the 2009 polls.

That indicated the strength it had in certain Assembly segments in Mumbai, Thane, Pune and Nashik," the source said.

The MNS won 13 seats in the 2009 Assembly polls and is believed to have eaten into the Shiv Sena and BJP's vote share, helping the Congress-NCP combine to retain power.

The Congress, NCP and MNS secured 21.01 per cent, 16.37 per cent and 5.71 per cent votes, respectively, in 2009.

But the Raj Thackeray-led party's influence had waned when the 2014 Assembly elections came by, and it could win only one seat.&nbsp;

The NCP is considering taking the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) onboard for the Maharashtra Assembly elections, sources in the Sharad Pawar-led party have said.

The NCP is considering taking the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) onboard for the Maharashtra Assembly elections, sources in the Sharad Pawar-led party have said. Assembly polls are due in the state later this year. The Raj Thackeray-led party was not part of the `grand alliance' stitched by the Congress and NCP with smaller parties for the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. The NCP was keen on an alliance with the MNS, but the Congress reportedly had reservations, fearing a backlash in the Hindi heartland due to the MNS' anti-North Indian stand. The MNS is not contesting the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. Thackeray, however, addressed several rallies in the state during the first four phases, attacking Prime Minister Narendra Modi and appealing people not to vote for the BJP. "The Congress was concerned about aligning with the MNS during general elections due to latter's anti-North Indian posturing. But that should not be a concern in the state polls," an NCP leader said. The possibility of the NCP allotting MNS some seats from its quota (as part of the alliance with the Congress) could not be ruled out, he said. The MNS, he said, can influence voters in around 30 Assembly segments. "The MNS put up a good show in the 2009 polls. That indicated the strength it had in certain Assembly segments in Mumbai, Thane, Pune and Nashik," the source said. The MNS won 13 seats in the 2009 Assembly polls and is believed to have eaten into the Shiv Sena and BJP's vote share, helping the Congress-NCP combine to retain power. The Congress, NCP and MNS secured 21.01 per cent, 16.37 per cent and 5.71 per cent votes, respectively, in 2009. But the Raj Thackeray-led party's influence had waned when the 2014 Assembly elections came by, and it could win only one seat.

If not for Lok Sabha, NCP may have tie-up with MNS for state polls

The Congress's campaign for the ongoing Lok Sabha polls in Delhi will reach its climax in the coming days with party president Rahul Gandhi and general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra addressing rallies and taking part in roadshows.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/what-rubbish-entire-nation-knows-he-is-indian-priyanka-gandhi-vadra-on-rahuls-citizenship-row-214729&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwio7_2l-_zhAhWKrI8KHQdXBV4QFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1dgIzLTBOtwETvLKPb-Bb8">Priyanka Gandhi </a>will participate in two roadshows on May 8 in the North East Delhi and South Delhi parliamentary seats, Delhi Congress's campaign committee chairman Subhash Chopra said on Thursday.

The grand old party has fielded Sheila Dikshit and Vijender Singh from North East Delhi and South Delhi respectively.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to attend a mega poll rally at the Ramleela Ground on the same day in support of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)candidates in the seven Lok Sabha seats of the national capital.

Rahul Gandhi will take part in two rallies on May 6 and 7.

The May 6 rally will be held at Baratooti in the<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/how-can-full-statehood-be-given-to-kejriwal-with-dubious-character-says-harsh-vardhan-214051&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjErcq--_zhAhWFqI8KHUqJDnoQFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0eOJTmPw9oIa7PRJNRpME3"> Chandni Chowk parliamentary constituency,</a> from where the Congress has fielded JP Agarwal, Chopra said.

The Congress president will attend another rally in the North West Delhi constituency on May 7 in support of party candidate Rajesh Lilothia, he added.

Priyanka Gandhi's roadshows will be held at Seelampur (North-West Delhi) and Ambedkar Nagar (South Delhi), Delhi Congress spokesperson Jitender Kochar said.

The Congress has lined up its top guns, including UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and former prime minister Manmohan Singh, for campaigning in Delhi, he added.

Apart from actor-turned-politician Shatrughan Sinha, who recently quit the BJP to join the Congress, the list of campaign heavyweights also features former cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu.

Both have emerged as bitter critics of the BJP since leaving the saffron camp.

The Congress has prepared a list of 40 senior leaders, including its Delhi unit chief Sheila Dikshit and senior party leaders Ahmed Patel, Ghulam Nabi Azad, Anand Sharma, Jyotiraditya Scindia among others, for campaigning in the national capital.

Polling for the seven Lok Sabha seats of Delhi will be held on May 12 and the results will be announced on May 23.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Congress's campaign for the ongoing Lok Sabha polls in Delhi will reach its climax in the coming days with party president Rahul Gandhi and general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra addressing rallies and taking part in roadshows.

The Congress's campaign for the ongoing Lok Sabha polls in Delhi will reach its climax in the coming days with party president Rahul Gandhi and general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra addressing rallies and taking part in roadshows. Priyanka Gandhi will participate in two roadshows on May 8 in the North East Delhi and South Delhi parliamentary seats, Delhi Congress's campaign committee chairman Subhash Chopra said on Thursday. The grand old party has fielded Sheila Dikshit and Vijender Singh from North East Delhi and South Delhi respectively. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to attend a mega poll rally at the Ramleela Ground on the same day in support of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)candidates in the seven Lok Sabha seats of the national capital. Rahul Gandhi will take part in two rallies on May 6 and 7. The May 6 rally will be held at Baratooti in the Chandni Chowk parliamentary constituency, from where the Congress has fielded JP Agarwal, Chopra said. The Congress president will attend another rally in the North West Delhi constituency on May 7 in support of party candidate Rajesh Lilothia, he added. Priyanka Gandhi's roadshows will be held at Seelampur (North-West Delhi) and Ambedkar Nagar (South Delhi), Delhi Congress spokesperson Jitender Kochar said. The Congress has lined up its top guns, including UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and former prime minister Manmohan Singh, for campaigning in Delhi, he added. Apart from actor-turned-politician Shatrughan Sinha, who recently quit the BJP to join the Congress, the list of campaign heavyweights also features former cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu. Both have emerged as bitter critics of the BJP since leaving the saffron camp. The Congress has prepared a list of 40 senior leaders, including its Delhi unit chief Sheila Dikshit and senior party leaders Ahmed Patel, Ghulam Nabi Azad, Anand Sharma, Jyotiraditya Scindia among others, for campaigning in the national capital. Polling for the seven Lok Sabha seats of Delhi will be held on May 12 and the results will be announced on May 23.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Priyanka's roadshows, Rahul's rallies to heat up campaigning in Delhi

Ladakh Parliamentary Constituency is going to polls in the fifth phase of Lok Sabha on May 6 for which 559 polling stations have been set up across the frontier region for the smooth conduct of the electoral exercise.

The Parliamentary Constituency comprises two districts of Leh and Kargil.

The Kargil district consists of two assembly segments Kargil and Zanskar while as Leh district includes Nubra and Leh assembly segments.

The Ladakh Parliamentary Constituency has an electoral strength of 174,618 voters. Out of total voters, 86752 are males, 85064 females, 2799 are service voters and 3 transgender voters.

Kargil assembly segment has a total number of 65,294 voters including 32,895 males, 31,354 females, 1044 service voters (1041 male and 3 females) and 1 transgender. As many as 181 polling stations have been established in this segment.

Zanskar assembly segment constitutes 22,487 voters including 11,162 males, 11051 females and 274 male service voters. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has set up 84 polling stations in Zanskar.

Leh assembly segment has an electoral strength of 72,689 voters including 35728 males, 35746 females, 1214 service voters (1192 males and 22 females) and 1 transgender voter. Around 225 polling stations have been set up in Leh assembly segment for the conduct of polls.

Nubra assembly segment constitutes 14,148 voters including 6,967 male, 6,913 female, 1 transgender voter and 267 service voters (248 males and 19 females). In Nubra assembly segment 69 polling stations have been set up. 
The candidates in fray are Rigzin Spalbar of Indian National Congress (INC), Jamyang Tsering Namgyal of Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) and Asgar Ali Karbalai and Sajjad Hussain, both independents.

The ECI has established two polling stations in Leh (Gaik) and Nubra (Washi) segments having seven voters each while as polling station with the highest number of voters (1301) has been set up at Leh (Shynam).&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The highest polling station, Anlay Pho (Changthang), has been set up in Leh district at an altitude of 15,000 feet. The booth is barely 50 metres from the Line of Actual Control (LAC).&nbsp;

The voting timing has been fixed from 7 am to 6 pm.

Ladakh Parliamentary Constituency is going to polls in the fifth phase of Lok Sabha on May 6 for which 559 polling stations have been set up across the frontier region for the smooth conduct of the electoral exercise.

Ladakh Parliamentary Constituency is going to polls in the fifth phase of Lok Sabha on May 6 for which 559 polling stations have been set up across the frontier region for the smooth conduct of the electoral exercise. The Parliamentary Constituency comprises two districts of Leh and Kargil. The Kargil district consists of two assembly segments Kargil and Zanskar while as Leh district includes Nubra and Leh assembly segments. The Ladakh Parliamentary Constituency has an electoral strength of 174,618 voters. Out of total voters, 86752 are males, 85064 females, 2799 are service voters and 3 transgender voters. Kargil assembly segment has a total number of 65,294 voters including 32,895 males, 31,354 females, 1044 service voters (1041 male and 3 females) and 1 transgender. As many as 181 polling stations have been established in this segment. Zanskar assembly segment constitutes 22,487 voters including 11,162 males, 11051 females and 274 male service voters. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has set up 84 polling stations in Zanskar. Leh assembly segment has an electoral strength of 72,689 voters including 35728 males, 35746 females, 1214 service voters (1192 males and 22 females) and 1 transgender voter. Around 225 polling stations have been set up in Leh assembly segment for the conduct of polls. Nubra assembly segment constitutes 14,148 voters including 6,967 male, 6,913 female, 1 transgender voter and 267 service voters (248 males and 19 females). In Nubra assembly segment 69 polling stations have been set up. The candidates in fray are Rigzin Spalbar of Indian National Congress (INC), Jamyang Tsering Namgyal of Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) and Asgar Ali Karbalai and Sajjad Hussain, both independents. The ECI has established two polling stations in Leh (Gaik) and Nubra (Washi) segments having seven voters each while as polling station with the highest number of voters (1301) has been set up at Leh (Shynam). The highest polling station, Anlay Pho (Changthang), has been set up in Leh district at an altitude of 15,000 feet. The booth is barely 50 metres from the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The voting timing has been fixed from 7 am to 6 pm.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Around 559 booths set up in Ladakh for fifth phase

The nomination of former BSF constable and Samajwadi Party candidate Tej Bahadur Yadav, who filed his papers against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency, was rejected on Wednesday after he failed to submit a certificate.

The Returning Officer (RO) Surendra Singh on Tuesday had issued a notice to Yadav, asking him to submit the certificate whether or not he was dismissed from the service for corruption or disloyalty to the government.

"You have not submitted the certificate to the effect that whether or not you were dismissed from the service for corruption or disloyalty with your nomination papers. You are directed through this notice to submit the aforementioned certificate till 11 am on May 1, 2019," the notice issued on Tuesday read.

Yadav, however, has alleged foul play and said that he would knock the doors of the Supreme Court on Thursday.

"My nomination has been rejected wrongly. I was asked to produce a certificate at 6.15 pm on Tuesday. We produced the evidence, but my nomination was rejected," he said.

"We will move the Supreme Court on Thursday," his lawyer said.

Yadav alleged that the RO, also the district magistrate of Varanasi, of being under pressure. "DM Sahab is under pressure," he said.

Singh said: "A person who has been dismissed from service from state or Central governments within the last five years has to obtain a certificate that he or she has not been dismissed due to disloyalty or corruption. The certificate was not produced before 11 am. So the nomination was rejected."

Yadav alleged that he was given a very short period to submit the certificate.

"I told the RO that I am not Ambani or Adani who will go by a chartered plane to Delhi for the certificate. However, I produced the certificate but they rejected it in an authoritative manner. They said that I could not produce the certificate before 11 am," said Yadav.

He also alleged a conspiracy against him. "It is just a conspiracy against us. Modi ji is scared. It has been done intentionally," said Yadav, who was dismissed from the BSF in 2017 after complaining about the poor quality of food served to the soldiers in a video, which went viral.

Yadav had posted four videos on social media in January 2017, which showed him complaining about unpalatable food at his camp along Indo-Pakistan border in Jammu and Kashmir.

He was named as the Samajwadi Party candidate from Varanasi parliamentary constituency to take on Prime Minister Modi on Monday. Earlier, he was in the fray as an independent candidate.

Varanasi seat was won by Prime Minister Modi in the last Lok Sabha elections. He had defeated AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal with a massive margin of 3.37 lakh votes.

The election in Varanasi is slated to take place in the last phase of seven-phased Lok Sabha elections on May 19. The counting of votes will begin on May 23.

The nomination of former BSF constable and Samajwadi Party candidate Tej Bahadur Yadav, who filed his papers against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency, was rejected on Wednesday after he failed to submit a certificate.

The nomination of former BSF constable and Samajwadi Party candidate Tej Bahadur Yadav, who filed his papers against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency, was rejected on Wednesday after he failed to submit a certificate. The Returning Officer (RO) Surendra Singh on Tuesday had issued a notice to Yadav, asking him to submit the certificate whether or not he was dismissed from the service for corruption or disloyalty to the government. "You have not submitted the certificate to the effect that whether or not you were dismissed from the service for corruption or disloyalty with your nomination papers. You are directed through this notice to submit the aforementioned certificate till 11 am on May 1, 2019," the notice issued on Tuesday read. Yadav, however, has alleged foul play and said that he would knock the doors of the Supreme Court on Thursday. "My nomination has been rejected wrongly. I was asked to produce a certificate at 6.15 pm on Tuesday. We produced the evidence, but my nomination was rejected," he said. "We will move the Supreme Court on Thursday," his lawyer said. Yadav alleged that the RO, also the district magistrate of Varanasi, of being under pressure. "DM Sahab is under pressure," he said. Singh said: "A person who has been dismissed from service from state or Central governments within the last five years has to obtain a certificate that he or she has not been dismissed due to disloyalty or corruption. The certificate was not produced before 11 am. So the nomination was rejected." Yadav alleged that he was given a very short period to submit the certificate. "I told the RO that I am not Ambani or Adani who will go by a chartered plane to Delhi for the certificate. However, I produced the certificate but they rejected it in an authoritative manner. They said that I could not produce the certificate before 11 am," said Yadav. He also alleged a conspiracy against him. "It is just a conspiracy against us. Modi ji is scared. It has been done intentionally," said Yadav, who was dismissed from the BSF in 2017 after complaining about the poor quality of food served to the soldiers in a video, which went viral. Yadav had posted four videos on social media in January 2017, which showed him complaining about unpalatable food at his camp along Indo-Pakistan border in Jammu and Kashmir. He was named as the Samajwadi Party candidate from Varanasi parliamentary constituency to take on Prime Minister Modi on Monday. Earlier, he was in the fray as an independent candidate. Varanasi seat was won by Prime Minister Modi in the last Lok Sabha elections. He had defeated AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal with a massive margin of 3.37 lakh votes. The election in Varanasi is slated to take place in the last phase of seven-phased Lok Sabha elections on May 19. The counting of votes will begin on May 23.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Sacked BSF jawan Tej Bahadur Yadav’s nomination for Varanasi rejected, says will move Supreme Court 

The Election Commission of India on Tuesday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's poll speech in Wardha in which he criticised Congress chief <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/elections/politicians/rahul-gandhi%3Fpage%3D33&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjXrs2FnPjhAhUH6Y8KHX3UAQM4RhAWMAB6BAgFEAE&amp;usg=AOvVaw3561lXS55TGaN59qEvw4-n">Rahul Gandhi</a> for playing appeasement politics over his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/lok-sabha-polls-2019-rahul-gandhis-wayanad-choice-could-hurt-congress-in-the-north-207697">candidature from Wayanad </a>does not violate the Model Code of Conduct.

"In a matter related to a complaint concerning an alleged violation of Model Code of Conduct in a speech by PM Narendra Modi in Wardha, Maharashtra on 01.04.2019, Commission is of the considered view that in this matter no such violation has been noticed," the poll panel said.&nbsp;

The EC said it had examined the matter in detail in accordance with the extant guidelines of the MCC and the report of the Chief Electoral Officer, Maharashtra."Accordingly, Commission is of the considered view that in this matter no such violation has been noticed," the apex poll body's order said.&nbsp;

The Congress on April 5 moved the EC against Modi's speech alleging that the comments were "hateful and divisive."

In the rally in Wardha, Modi had taken a veiled jibe at Congress president Rahul Gandhi for contesting from Wayanad in Kerala, in addition to Amethi in Uttar Pradesh, saying the party was "forced to run away from a majority seat to a minority constituency," while accusing it of "defaming" the Hindu community by coining the term Hindu terror.

"Congress has done the sin of defaming our more than 5,000 years old culture. The peaceful Hindu society which considers the whole world as its family was called a terrorist. That is why they have been forced to run away from a majority seat and go to a minority seat", he had said in his speech.&nbsp;

Modi added, "When Sushil Kumar Shinde was a minister, he had spoken about Hindu terrorism from the land of Maharashtra. However, a few days ago, the court`s decision came which exposed the Congress conspiracy in front of the country. Congress has insulted Hindus."

(With inputs from ANI)

The Election Commission of India on Tuesday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's poll speech in Wardha in which he criticised Congress chief Rahul Gandhi for playing appeasement politics over his candidature from Wayanad does not violate the Model Code of Conduct.

The Election Commission of India on Tuesday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's poll speech in Wardha in which he criticised Congress chief Rahul Gandhi for playing appeasement politics over his candidature from Wayanad does not violate the Model Code of Conduct. "In a matter related to a complaint concerning an alleged violation of Model Code of Conduct in a speech by PM Narendra Modi in Wardha, Maharashtra on 01.04.2019, Commission is of the considered view that in this matter no such violation has been noticed," the poll panel said. The EC said it had examined the matter in detail in accordance with the extant guidelines of the MCC and the report of the Chief Electoral Officer, Maharashtra."Accordingly, Commission is of the considered view that in this matter no such violation has been noticed," the apex poll body's order said. The Congress on April 5 moved the EC against Modi's speech alleging that the comments were "hateful and divisive." In the rally in Wardha, Modi had taken a veiled jibe at Congress president Rahul Gandhi for contesting from Wayanad in Kerala, in addition to Amethi in Uttar Pradesh, saying the party was "forced to run away from a majority seat to a minority constituency," while accusing it of "defaming" the Hindu community by coining the term Hindu terror. "Congress has done the sin of defaming our more than 5,000 years old culture. The peaceful Hindu society which considers the whole world as its family was called a terrorist. That is why they have been forced to run away from a majority seat and go to a minority seat", he had said in his speech. Modi added, "When Sushil Kumar Shinde was a minister, he had spoken about Hindu terrorism from the land of Maharashtra. However, a few days ago, the court`s decision came which exposed the Congress conspiracy in front of the country. Congress has insulted Hindus." (With inputs from ANI)

PM Modi gets clean chit: No poll code violation in Wardha speech, says Election Commission

Hours after the MHA served a notice to Congress president Rahul Gandhi seeking clarification on his citizenship status, Home Minister Rajnath Singh Tuesday said the timing of the communication is not relevant, even though it came in the middle of general elections.

"It is not a big development. It is a normal process," he said when asked about his ministry serving the notice to the Congress chief asking him to clarify within a fortnight his "factual position" on a complaint questioning his citizenship status.

The Home Ministry issued the letter after it received documents from BJP MP Subramanian Swamy in which he has claimed that a company named Backops Limited was registered in the United Kingdom in 2003 with Gandhi as one of its directors.

Singh told media persons here, "If any member of Parliament raises a question in Parliament, it becomes necessary to respond to it. If any MP writes a letter to any ministry, then necessary proceedings are undertaken by the ministry. It is not a big development, it is a normal process."

Asked specifically if the timing of the letter raising the question on the citizenship of the country's main opposition leader was relevant as it comes in the election season, Singh replied, "No, no. This question was raised in Parliament also. A Member of Parliament (Dr Subramanian Swamy) has written to the ministry several times as well, following which the action has been taken." Gandhi is seeking reelection from the Amethi Lok Sabha constituency which goes to polls in the fifth phase of voting on May 6.

An objection on the citizenship issue was also raised by an independent candidate against Gandhi in Amethi, but the returning officer, after scrutiny, declared his nomination papers as valid.

The Home Ministry also said Swamy's letter mentioned that in the British company's annual returns filed on October 10, 2005, and October 31, 2006, Gandhi's date of birth has been shown as June 19, 1970, and his nationality as British.

"Further, in the dissolution application dated February 17, 2009, of the above-referred company, your nationality has been mentioned as British.

"You are requested to intimate the factual position in the matter to this ministry within a fortnight of the receipt of this communication," the Home Ministry notice issued Monday said.

Hours after the MHA served a notice to Congress president Rahul Gandhi seeking clarification on his citizenship status, Home Minister Rajnath Singh Tuesday said the timing of the communication is not relevant, even though it came in the middle of general elections.

Hours after the MHA served a notice to Congress president Rahul Gandhi seeking clarification on his citizenship status, Home Minister Rajnath Singh Tuesday said the timing of the communication is not relevant, even though it came in the middle of general elections. "It is not a big development. It is a normal process," he said when asked about his ministry serving the notice to the Congress chief asking him to clarify within a fortnight his "factual position" on a complaint questioning his citizenship status. The Home Ministry issued the letter after it received documents from BJP MP Subramanian Swamy in which he has claimed that a company named Backops Limited was registered in the United Kingdom in 2003 with Gandhi as one of its directors. Singh told media persons here, "If any member of Parliament raises a question in Parliament, it becomes necessary to respond to it. If any MP writes a letter to any ministry, then necessary proceedings are undertaken by the ministry. It is not a big development, it is a normal process." Asked specifically if the timing of the letter raising the question on the citizenship of the country's main opposition leader was relevant as it comes in the election season, Singh replied, "No, no. This question was raised in Parliament also. A Member of Parliament (Dr Subramanian Swamy) has written to the ministry several times as well, following which the action has been taken." Gandhi is seeking reelection from the Amethi Lok Sabha constituency which goes to polls in the fifth phase of voting on May 6. An objection on the citizenship issue was also raised by an independent candidate against Gandhi in Amethi, but the returning officer, after scrutiny, declared his nomination papers as valid. The Home Ministry also said Swamy's letter mentioned that in the British company's annual returns filed on October 10, 2005, and October 31, 2006, Gandhi's date of birth has been shown as June 19, 1970, and his nationality as British. "Further, in the dissolution application dated February 17, 2009, of the above-referred company, your nationality has been mentioned as British. "You are requested to intimate the factual position in the matter to this ministry within a fortnight of the receipt of this communication," the Home Ministry notice issued Monday said.

Timing of MHA notice to Rahul not relevant, it's normal process: Rajnath Singh

Predicting the doom of the opposition ‘mahagathbandhan (grand alliance)’ in Uttar Pradesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said its “expiry date” is May 23 when leaders of the grouping will be at each others’ throats.

The Samajwadi Party (SP), the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) are in an alliance in the state. “Leaders of the SP, BSP, RLD will tear each others’ clothes once results of the Lok Sabha polls are out on May 23,” Modi said at an election meeting near here.

The prime minister, who has been slamming the alliance as “opportunistic”, said, “The expiry date of the SP-BSP-RLD alliance is May 23…evening.”&nbsp;

Modi, attacking the Congress, said that a “party which is not sure whether it will be in a position to get the post of leader of the opposition in Parliament…its leaders are getting garments stitched to take oath as prime minister.”

Predicting the doom of the opposition ‘mahagathbandhan (grand alliance)’ in Uttar Pradesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said its “expiry date” is May 23 when leaders of the grouping will be at each others’ throats.

Predicting the doom of the opposition ‘mahagathbandhan (grand alliance)’ in Uttar Pradesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said its “expiry date” is May 23 when leaders of the grouping will be at each others’ throats. The Samajwadi Party (SP), the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) are in an alliance in the state. “Leaders of the SP, BSP, RLD will tear each others’ clothes once results of the Lok Sabha polls are out on May 23,” Modi said at an election meeting near here. The prime minister, who has been slamming the alliance as “opportunistic”, said, “The expiry date of the SP-BSP-RLD alliance is May 23…evening.” Modi, attacking the Congress, said that a “party which is not sure whether it will be in a position to get the post of leader of the opposition in Parliament…its leaders are getting garments stitched to take oath as prime minister.”

Expiry date of SP-BSP-RLD alliance is May 23, says PM Narendra Modi

Actor-turned-politician Sunny Deol filed his nomination as BJP candidate from Gurdaspur parliamentary constituency.&nbsp;

His brother and actor Bobby Deol accompanied him.

Sporting a navy blue turban and a blue shirt, the 62-year-old earlier offered prayers at the sanctum sanctorum of the Golden Temple.

The BJP has fielded Sunny Deol, a Jat Sikh, from Gurdaspur constituency.&nbsp;

Deol is pitted against sitting MP and Congress candidate Sunil Jakhar, AAP's Peter Masih and PDA's Lal Chand in the electoral fight from Gurdaspur seat.

Jakhar won the seat in the 2017 bypoll, which was necessitated following the death of Vinod Khanna.&nbsp;

The Gurdaspur Lok Sabha seat had been represented by late actor Vinod Khanna for four-times--1998, 1999, 2004 and 2014.

Actor-turned-politician Sunny Deol filed his nomination as BJP candidate from Gurdaspur parliamentary constituency. His brother and actor Bobby Deol accompanied him.

Actor-turned-politician Sunny Deol filed his nomination as BJP candidate from Gurdaspur parliamentary constituency. His brother and actor Bobby Deol accompanied him. Sporting a navy blue turban and a blue shirt, the 62-year-old earlier offered prayers at the sanctum sanctorum of the Golden Temple. The BJP has fielded Sunny Deol, a Jat Sikh, from Gurdaspur constituency. Deol is pitted against sitting MP and Congress candidate Sunil Jakhar, AAP's Peter Masih and PDA's Lal Chand in the electoral fight from Gurdaspur seat. Jakhar won the seat in the 2017 bypoll, which was necessitated following the death of Vinod Khanna. The Gurdaspur Lok Sabha seat had been represented by late actor Vinod Khanna for four-times--1998, 1999, 2004 and 2014.

Sunny Deol files nomination from Gurdaspur seat  

Voters at a polling booth in Asansol had refused to vote in the absence of security forces, media reports said.

BJP candidate Babul Supriyo's car vandalised in Asansol

Incidents of violence in West Bengal and EVM glitches in some areas were reported as 64 per cent turnout was recorded on Monday in 72 constituencies across nine states in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-lok-sabha-polls-fourth-phase-polling-underway-in-nine-states-214251">fourth phase of Lok Sabha elections</a>.

In the heartland states, where the BJP had won 30 out of 32 seats in 2014, 62 per cent turnout was recorded in Rajasthan (13 seats), 53.12 per cent in Uttar Pradesh (13 seats) and 65.86 per cent Madhya Pradesh (6 seats).

West Bengal recorded a high turnout at 76.47 in the eight seats though <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-clashes-erupt-between-tmc-workers-security-forces-in-asansol-babul-supriyos-car-vandalised-214362">clashes broke out</a> between supporters of rival parties in Nanoor, Rampurhat, Nalhati and Suri areas of Birbhum seat, leaving several people injured.

In Barabani, BJP candidate from Asansol and Union minister Babul Supriyo's vehicle was vandalised allegedly by TMC workers outside a polling station while in Dubrajpur area central security forces personnel reportedly opened fire in the air to disperse irate people who attacked them when they were barred from entering the booths with mobile phones.&nbsp;

An FIR was registered against Supriyo for allegedly getting into an argument with polling officials, an election official said. The ruling Trinamool Congress and the BJP accused each other of intimidating voters in the state, which has seen violence in all previous three phases despite stepped up central forces deployment.

The stakes are high for the BJP which had won 56 of the 72 constituencies in the 2014 polls. About 12.79 crore people were eligible for voting in the phase, which marked the start of polling in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh while elections came to an end in Maharashtra and Odisha.&nbsp;

Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Madhya Pradesh V L Kantha Rao said that during a mock-poll, electronic voting machines (EVMs) were replaced at 207 polling booths as some glitches were found. EVMs were also replaced at 106 polling booths after the voting began.

Polling was peaceful in Rajasthan, with tribal dominated seat of Banswara recording the highest voting percentage at 72.34, followed by Barmer which recorded 72.21 per cent voting, according to state election officials.

Nearly 52 per cent voting was recorded in Maharashtra (17 seats), 64.05 per cent Odisha (6 seats), 53.67 per cent Bihar (five seats) and 63.42 per cent Jharkhand (3 seats), according to data provided by the Election Commission till 6 PM.

In Kulgam district of Anantnag constituency in Jammu and Kashmir, 10.3 per cent polling was recorded, amid isolated incidents of stone pelting. This was the second of the three-phased polling in the sensitive seat.

Billionaires and Bollywood star lined up outside polling stations along with the common folks in Mumbai, where polling was held in six constituencies.&nbsp;

Complaints of technical glitches in EVMs and VVPAT machines in some polling booths were addressed in Maharashtra, an election official said.

Bollywood celebrities including Amitabh Bachchan, the Khan troika of Shah Rukh, Salman and Aamir, and Deepika Padukone cast their votes in Mumbai. Priyanka Chopra, Rekha, Aamir and wife Kiran Rao were among the early voters.

In Uttar Pradesh, opposition Samajwadi Party's alleged that many EVMs malfunctioned and in Kannauj, from where SP chief Akhilesh Yadav's wife and sitting MP Dimple Yadav is contesting, several party workers were prevented from coming out of their homes to vote.

In Kanpur, BJP workers allegedly tried to barge into a polling booth and clashed with the police. A case has been registered against BJP leader Suresh Awasthi and six others in this connection, Kanpur District Magistrate Vijay Vishwas Pant said.

Shahjahanpur (SC), Kheri, Hardoi (SC), Misrikh (SC), Unnao, Farrukhabad, Etawah (SC), Kannauj, Kanpur, Akbarpur, Jalaun (SC), Jhansi and Hamirpur seats recorded 53.23 per cent polling till 5 pm, an electoral officer said.

Reports were received of EVMs developing snag in Bidhauna area under the Kannauj Lok Sabha seat following which polling remained suspended for over an hour.

Complaints of EVM malfunctioning were also reported in Etawah under Auriaya district, with voters claiming they had to wait for hours at polling booths in Tilak Mahavidyalaya, Sahupur, Ajitmal and Dalelnagar to cast their votes.

According to a report from Hardoi, an elderly woman voter complained that the presiding officer at Jamkara booth under Sandila area forcibly pressed the EVM button. The sector magistrate has removed the officer and handed him over to the police who is investigating the matter.

Besides Dimple Yadav, prominent candidates whose electoral fate will be decided in this phase are Dimple Yadav, former Union ministers Salman Khurshid (Farrukhabd) and Sriprakash Jaiswal (Kanpur) of Congress, UP Cabinet minister Satyadev Pachauri (Kanpur) and Sakshi Maharaj of BJP (Unnao)

In Bihar, voting was delayed due to EVM malfunctioning at three polling stations in Munger, two polling stations in Darbhanga and three polling stations in Begusarai, from where CPI's Kanhaiya Kumar and Union Minister Giriraj Singh (BJP) are contesting, due to technical glitches, official sources said.

In Odisha, technical glitches in EVMs delayed polling in 60 booths, but it resumed after the snags were rectified, the official said.

Election to 542 Lok Sabha seats is being conducted in seven phases between April 11 and May 19.

Election in Vellore constituency in Tamil Nadu has been cancelled following excess use of money power. Results will be declared on May 23.&nbsp;

Incidents of violence in West Bengal and EVM glitches in some areas were reported as 64 per cent turnout was recorded on Monday in 72 constituencies across nine states in the fourth phase of Lok Sabha elections.

Incidents of violence in West Bengal and EVM glitches in some areas were reported as 64 per cent turnout was recorded on Monday in 72 constituencies across nine states in the fourth phase of Lok Sabha elections. In the heartland states, where the BJP had won 30 out of 32 seats in 2014, 62 per cent turnout was recorded in Rajasthan (13 seats), 53.12 per cent in Uttar Pradesh (13 seats) and 65.86 per cent Madhya Pradesh (6 seats). West Bengal recorded a high turnout at 76.47 in the eight seats though clashes broke out between supporters of rival parties in Nanoor, Rampurhat, Nalhati and Suri areas of Birbhum seat, leaving several people injured. In Barabani, BJP candidate from Asansol and Union minister Babul Supriyo's vehicle was vandalised allegedly by TMC workers outside a polling station while in Dubrajpur area central security forces personnel reportedly opened fire in the air to disperse irate people who attacked them when they were barred from entering the booths with mobile phones. An FIR was registered against Supriyo for allegedly getting into an argument with polling officials, an election official said. The ruling Trinamool Congress and the BJP accused each other of intimidating voters in the state, which has seen violence in all previous three phases despite stepped up central forces deployment. The stakes are high for the BJP which had won 56 of the 72 constituencies in the 2014 polls. About 12.79 crore people were eligible for voting in the phase, which marked the start of polling in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh while elections came to an end in Maharashtra and Odisha. Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Madhya Pradesh V L Kantha Rao said that during a mock-poll, electronic voting machines (EVMs) were replaced at 207 polling booths as some glitches were found. EVMs were also replaced at 106 polling booths after the voting began. Polling was peaceful in Rajasthan, with tribal dominated seat of Banswara recording the highest voting percentage at 72.34, followed by Barmer which recorded 72.21 per cent voting, according to state election officials. Nearly 52 per cent voting was recorded in Maharashtra (17 seats), 64.05 per cent Odisha (6 seats), 53.67 per cent Bihar (five seats) and 63.42 per cent Jharkhand (3 seats), according to data provided by the Election Commission till 6 PM. In Kulgam district of Anantnag constituency in Jammu and Kashmir, 10.3 per cent polling was recorded, amid isolated incidents of stone pelting. This was the second of the three-phased polling in the sensitive seat. Billionaires and Bollywood star lined up outside polling stations along with the common folks in Mumbai, where polling was held in six constituencies. Complaints of technical glitches in EVMs and VVPAT machines in some polling booths were addressed in Maharashtra, an election official said. Bollywood celebrities including Amitabh Bachchan, the Khan troika of Shah Rukh, Salman and Aamir, and Deepika Padukone cast their votes in Mumbai. Priyanka Chopra, Rekha, Aamir and wife Kiran Rao were among the early voters. In Uttar Pradesh, opposition Samajwadi Party's alleged that many EVMs malfunctioned and in Kannauj, from where SP chief Akhilesh Yadav's wife and sitting MP Dimple Yadav is contesting, several party workers were prevented from coming out of their homes to vote. In Kanpur, BJP workers allegedly tried to barge into a polling booth and clashed with the police. A case has been registered against BJP leader Suresh Awasthi and six others in this connection, Kanpur District Magistrate Vijay Vishwas Pant said. Shahjahanpur (SC), Kheri, Hardoi (SC), Misrikh (SC), Unnao, Farrukhabad, Etawah (SC), Kannauj, Kanpur, Akbarpur, Jalaun (SC), Jhansi and Hamirpur seats recorded 53.23 per cent polling till 5 pm, an electoral officer said. Reports were received of EVMs developing snag in Bidhauna area under the Kannauj Lok Sabha seat following which polling remained suspended for over an hour. Complaints of EVM malfunctioning were also reported in Etawah under Auriaya district, with voters claiming they had to wait for hours at polling booths in Tilak Mahavidyalaya, Sahupur, Ajitmal and Dalelnagar to cast their votes. According to a report from Hardoi, an elderly woman voter complained that the presiding officer at Jamkara booth under Sandila area forcibly pressed the EVM button. The sector magistrate has removed the officer and handed him over to the police who is investigating the matter. Besides Dimple Yadav, prominent candidates whose electoral fate will be decided in this phase are Dimple Yadav, former Union ministers Salman Khurshid (Farrukhabd) and Sriprakash Jaiswal (Kanpur) of Congress, UP Cabinet minister Satyadev Pachauri (Kanpur) and Sakshi Maharaj of BJP (Unnao) In Bihar, voting was delayed due to EVM malfunctioning at three polling stations in Munger, two polling stations in Darbhanga and three polling stations in Begusarai, from where CPI's Kanhaiya Kumar and Union Minister Giriraj Singh (BJP) are contesting, due to technical glitches, official sources said. In Odisha, technical glitches in EVMs delayed polling in 60 booths, but it resumed after the snags were rectified, the official said. Election to 542 Lok Sabha seats is being conducted in seven phases between April 11 and May 19. Election in Vellore constituency in Tamil Nadu has been cancelled following excess use of money power. Results will be declared on May 23.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: 64% turnout recorded in fourth phase, violence in West Bengal

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-lok-sabha-polls-fourth-phase-polling-underway-in-nine-states-214251">Live Lok Sabha polls: 72 Lok Sabha seats in 9 states go to polls in phase 4</a>

Congress candidate from Mumbai North, Urmila Matondkar cast her vote at a polling booth in Bandra while veteran actress Shubha Khote exercised her franchise at a polling booth in Juhu, Mumbai.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-pm-pedro-sanchez-win-snap-polls-marked-by-far-right-gains-214244">Spain PM Pedro Sanchez wins snap polls marked by far-right gains</a>

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's Socialists won snap elections Sunday without the necessary majority to govern solo in a fragmented political landscape marked by the far-right's entry into parliament.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/post-easter-attacks-sri-lanka-president-sirisena-bans-face-covering-214265">Post Easter attacks, Sri Lanka President Sirisena bans face covering</a>

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena on Sunday announced a ban on face covering, a week after Islamist militants carried out coordinated suicide bombings that killed 253 people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-military-spending-up-for-first-time-in-seven-years-sipri-214258">US military spending up for first time in seven years: SIPRI</a>

US military spending has risen for the first time in seven years, reflecting Trump administration policy, according to a new report released Monday by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-was-face-to-face-with-california-synagogue-shooter-rabbi-yisroel-goldstein-214268">I was face to face with California synagogue shooter: Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein</a>

A 19-year-old man who authorities said gave himself up to police shortly after carrying out a deadly shooting in a Southern California synagogue filled with Sabbath worshippers is also under investigation for a mosque arson.

Live Lok Sabha polls: 72 Lok Sabha seats in 9 states go to polls in phase 4 Congress candidate from Mumbai North, Urmila Matondkar cast her vote at a polling booth in Bandra while veteran actress Shubha Khote exercised her franchise at a polling booth in Juhu, Mumbai.

Live Lok Sabha polls: 72 Lok Sabha seats in 9 states go to polls in phase 4 Congress candidate from Mumbai North, Urmila Matondkar cast her vote at a polling booth in Bandra while veteran actress Shubha Khote exercised her franchise at a polling booth in Juhu, Mumbai. Spain PM Pedro Sanchez wins snap polls marked by far-right gains Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's Socialists won snap elections Sunday without the necessary majority to govern solo in a fragmented political landscape marked by the far-right's entry into parliament. Post Easter attacks, Sri Lanka President Sirisena bans face covering Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena on Sunday announced a ban on face covering, a week after Islamist militants carried out coordinated suicide bombings that killed 253 people. US military spending up for first time in seven years: SIPRI US military spending has risen for the first time in seven years, reflecting Trump administration policy, according to a new report released Monday by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). I was face to face with California synagogue shooter: Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein A 19-year-old man who authorities said gave himself up to police shortly after carrying out a deadly shooting in a Southern California synagogue filled with Sabbath worshippers is also under investigation for a mosque arson.

News brief: Big stories of the day

When poll pundits call the ongoing general election presidential, they are missing the woods for the trees. It is one thing for shrill TV channels to split the screen and show PM Narendra Modi in one part and Rahul Gandhi in the other, it is quite another to start believing your own rhetoric and brand the poll presidential, as if two leading political behemoths are stalking the land.

The reality is far from it. The Indian election system is not presidential, constitutionally speaking, and that is the way it stands. The real battle for the hearts and minds of the voters is not just being fought between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress, but a clutch of regional parties, that do not necessarily have the same high profile as the two national parties, but whose representatives are scouring the electoral landscape with the same vehemence as anyone else contesting the elections.&nbsp;

In the big states, as is now apparent after three phases of elections, it is by no chance just BJP vs the Congress; remember India is a federal country and the elections, in a larger sense, represent a series of smaller polls - even downright local rivalries - that will determine the kind of government Indians can hope to see after May 23.

As a matter of fact, none of the big poll-bound states pit BJP vs the Congress. In Bengal, it is Trinamool and Mamata Banerjee vs the rest; in the biggest state of them all, Uttar Pradesh, it is mainly BJP vs two regional satraps, SP and the BSP. In Maharashtra, BJP-Sena are battling Congress and NCP while in Bihar, it is JD (U)-BJP against RJD and Congress from the outside. In Tamil Nadu, there is no BJP vs Congress fight, neither is there any Congress vs BJP standoff in Odisha, where again a regional outfit, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has been calling the shots for the last decade-and-a-half.&nbsp;

Neighbouring Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are once again dominated by regional parties, the Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) and the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) respectively.&nbsp;

If there is a real Congress vs BJP poll battle, it remains confined to MP, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Assam and Gujarat. It is simply too small a base to call an Indian election presidential, given the size of the country. So where pray, is this magnificent, all-consuming presidential elections taking place? Not in India, to be sure.

There is another side to this. The risk of pitting Rahul against Modi is to conjure, farcically, of course, a highly unequal contest. Taken to its logical conclusion, it is a signal to the electorate that if Rahul cannot beat Modi, no one else can, while the reality is that a carefully calibrated opposition plan could have made the BJP’s well oiled electoral machine a little slower in its response time. That it may not happen now, is part of this problem of projecting an excessively presidential style of polling, when none actually exists on the ground.

Even though it can be said that Prime Minister Modi’s campaign style is typically presidential, overflowing with speeches, perhaps more than his own party or even the opposition. In true presidential fashion, the focus remains on the principal contender, who is larger than life, not just for the public, but also for the media.

Modi’s campaign style is excessively personal. There are barely any references to the BJP - in fact the punch line for election 2019 is ‘Phir ek baar Modi sarkar’ (Modi government again); in 2014, it was ‘Abki baar Modi sarkar’ (Modi government this time). Campaign Modi is, therefore, the end product of a complex web of back end outreach initiatives, nearly totally technology driven. &nbsp;&nbsp;

With such an onerous comparison, Rahul Gandhi has had no option but to imitate a presidential style campaign and the jury is still out whether it suits him or not. &nbsp;

However, that is where the comparison ends, because the Constitution of the country dictates the style of government and not the style of the practitioners. Perhaps, more clarity on it would come, once the poll results are known.&nbsp;

Unlike a presidential campaign, there are powerful regional satraps, who dominate India’s political landscape in their own bailiwick, campaigning ceaselessly, against both Modi and occasionally, the Congress.

The BJP’s fight, as the final numbers will bear out, is going to be against the powerful regional satraps, and not the Congress, as is being incorrectly projected. &nbsp;

A presidential election would necessarily mean high-velocity televised debates while in India, such arguments are the prerogative of television studios, where a number of low ranking leaders looking to make a mark, flex their muscles at each other, the higher the decibel level the better the entertainment. Direct polemics between leading political lights is not just uncommon, it is not even heard of. Speeches delivered are extempore at different locations and there is no question of anyone raising any point of order. Everyone on stage is a fellow traveller, so any dissension, as a form of political expression, simply does not exist. &nbsp;

Politically speaking, when and if an alliance is cobbled, then the presidential aspect would not come into the picture. It would not be an alliance between two big parties, but two big political formations. Parties, with wide ideological divergences in the past, would suddenly deem it fit to form a government, once an alliance is put into place. &nbsp;By May 23, India would undoubtedly be as far away from a presidential system as it ever has been.&nbsp; 
 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the<a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-misnomer-of-presidential-polls-2744048"> original article)</a>

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

When poll pundits call the ongoing general election presidential, they are missing the woods for the trees. It is one thing for shrill TV channels to split the screen and show PM Narendra Modi in one part and Rahul Gandhi in the other, it is quite another to start believing your own rhetoric and brand the poll presidential, as if two leading political behemoths are stalking the land.

When poll pundits call the ongoing general election presidential, they are missing the woods for the trees. It is one thing for shrill TV channels to split the screen and show PM Narendra Modi in one part and Rahul Gandhi in the other, it is quite another to start believing your own rhetoric and brand the poll presidential, as if two leading political behemoths are stalking the land. The reality is far from it. The Indian election system is not presidential, constitutionally speaking, and that is the way it stands. The real battle for the hearts and minds of the voters is not just being fought between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress, but a clutch of regional parties, that do not necessarily have the same high profile as the two national parties, but whose representatives are scouring the electoral landscape with the same vehemence as anyone else contesting the elections. In the big states, as is now apparent after three phases of elections, it is by no chance just BJP vs the Congress; remember India is a federal country and the elections, in a larger sense, represent a series of smaller polls - even downright local rivalries - that will determine the kind of government Indians can hope to see after May 23. As a matter of fact, none of the big poll-bound states pit BJP vs the Congress. In Bengal, it is Trinamool and Mamata Banerjee vs the rest; in the biggest state of them all, Uttar Pradesh, it is mainly BJP vs two regional satraps, SP and the BSP. In Maharashtra, BJP-Sena are battling Congress and NCP while in Bihar, it is JD (U)-BJP against RJD and Congress from the outside. In Tamil Nadu, there is no BJP vs Congress fight, neither is there any Congress vs BJP standoff in Odisha, where again a regional outfit, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has been calling the shots for the last decade-and-a-half. Neighbouring Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are once again dominated by regional parties, the Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) and the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) respectively. If there is a real Congress vs BJP poll battle, it remains confined to MP, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Assam and Gujarat. It is simply too small a base to call an Indian election presidential, given the size of the country. So where pray, is this magnificent, all-consuming presidential elections taking place? Not in India, to be sure. There is another side to this. The risk of pitting Rahul against Modi is to conjure, farcically, of course, a highly unequal contest. Taken to its logical conclusion, it is a signal to the electorate that if Rahul cannot beat Modi, no one else can, while the reality is that a carefully calibrated opposition plan could have made the BJP’s well oiled electoral machine a little slower in its response time. That it may not happen now, is part of this problem of projecting an excessively presidential style of polling, when none actually exists on the ground. Even though it can be said that Prime Minister Modi’s campaign style is typically presidential, overflowing with speeches, perhaps more than his own party or even the opposition. In true presidential fashion, the focus remains on the principal contender, who is larger than life, not just for the public, but also for the media. Modi’s campaign style is excessively personal. There are barely any references to the BJP - in fact the punch line for election 2019 is ‘Phir ek baar Modi sarkar’ (Modi government again); in 2014, it was ‘Abki baar Modi sarkar’ (Modi government this time). Campaign Modi is, therefore, the end product of a complex web of back end outreach initiatives, nearly totally technology driven. With such an onerous comparison, Rahul Gandhi has had no option but to imitate a presidential style campaign and the jury is still out whether it suits him or not. However, that is where the comparison ends, because the Constitution of the country dictates the style of government and not the style of the practitioners. Perhaps, more clarity on it would come, once the poll results are known. Unlike a presidential campaign, there are powerful regional satraps, who dominate India’s political landscape in their own bailiwick, campaigning ceaselessly, against both Modi and occasionally, the Congress. The BJP’s fight, as the final numbers will bear out, is going to be against the powerful regional satraps, and not the Congress, as is being incorrectly projected. A presidential election would necessarily mean high-velocity televised debates while in India, such arguments are the prerogative of television studios, where a number of low ranking leaders looking to make a mark, flex their muscles at each other, the higher the decibel level the better the entertainment. Direct polemics between leading political lights is not just uncommon, it is not even heard of. Speeches delivered are extempore at different locations and there is no question of anyone raising any point of order. Everyone on stage is a fellow traveller, so any dissension, as a form of political expression, simply does not exist. Politically speaking, when and if an alliance is cobbled, then the presidential aspect would not come into the picture. It would not be an alliance between two big parties, but two big political formations. Parties, with wide ideological divergences in the past, would suddenly deem it fit to form a government, once an alliance is put into place. By May 23, India would undoubtedly be as far away from a presidential system as it ever has been. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

It's no way just BJP vs Congress as regional satraps dominate India’s political landscape

Former cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=sachin+tendulkar">Sachin Tendulkar</a> with his wife Anjali Tendulkar cast their votes at a booth in Mumbai. Their son Arjun Tendulkar, a budding left-arm pacer, and daughter Sara voted for the first time.&nbsp;

Before leaving for the polling booth, Sachin took to Twitter to announce it. He wrote, "As planned, I'm on my way. Any guesses where?"

After casting his vote, he tweeted, "Voting this year has been so much more special with Sara and Arjun voting for the first time."

He also requested the citizens of India to use their right to vote, he said, "I urge you all to go out and VOTE too!"

The Tendulkar family shared their picture of their inked index fingers with big bright smiles on the faces.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-lok-sabha-polls-fourth-phase-polling-underway-in-nine-states-214251">Voting is underway in 71 constituencies</a> for the fourth phase of Lok Sabha polls across Bihar, Odisha, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
As planned, I'm on my way. Any guesses where? 😉 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SecretMission?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SecretMission</a> <a href="https://t.co/nJL6QlvIvL">pic.twitter.com/nJL6QlvIvL</a>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1122798040019034112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Voting this year has been so much more special with Sara and Arjun voting for the first time. 
I urge you all to go out and VOTE too!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GotInked?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GotInked</a><a href="https://twitter.com/ECISVEEP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ECISVEEP</a> <a href="https://t.co/stUpabsZsg">pic.twitter.com/stUpabsZsg</a>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1122798588357226496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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From Rekha to Priyanka Chopra, Bollywood stars also came out to caste their votes. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/lok-sabha-polls-2019-bollywood-stars-come-out-to-vote-214327">See Pictures</a>...

Former cricketer Sachin Tendulkar with his wife Anjali Tendulkar cast their votes at a booth in Mumbai. Their son Arjun Tendulkar, a budding left-arm pacer, and daughter Sara voted for the first time.

Former cricketer Sachin Tendulkar with his wife Anjali Tendulkar cast their votes at a booth in Mumbai. Their son Arjun Tendulkar, a budding left-arm pacer, and daughter Sara voted for the first time. Before leaving for the polling booth, Sachin took to Twitter to announce it. He wrote, "As planned, I'm on my way. Any guesses where?" After casting his vote, he tweeted, "Voting this year has been so much more special with Sara and Arjun voting for the first time." He also requested the citizens of India to use their right to vote, he said, "I urge you all to go out and VOTE too!" The Tendulkar family shared their picture of their inked index fingers with big bright smiles on the faces. Voting is underway in 71 constituencies for the fourth phase of Lok Sabha polls across Bihar, Odisha, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Jammu and Kashmir. As planned, I'm on my way. Any guesses where? 😉 #SecretMission pic.twitter.com/nJL6QlvIvL — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) April 29, 2019 × Voting this year has been so much more special with Sara and Arjun voting for the first time. I urge you all to go out and VOTE too!#LokSabhaElections#GotInked@ECISVEEP pic.twitter.com/stUpabsZsg — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) April 29, 2019 × From Rekha to Priyanka Chopra, Bollywood stars also came out to caste their votes. See Pictures...

Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar with wife Anjali cast their votes in Mumbai

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