<p>India's Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) on Saturday (March 16) announced that the assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir would be conducted after the Lok Sabha elections.</p>

<p>"We are yet to hold assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. The way for conducting legal elections has opened since December 23. This is March, and there is snowfall in the region, hence the question of holding elections does not arise at this point," Kumar was quoted as saying by the news agency ANI.</p>

<p>"We (ECI) went to Jammu and Kashmir and were asked by all the political parties there to hold the state assembly elections with the Lok Sabha polls. After that, we held administrative meetings wherein it was discussed that a lot of security forces would be required to conduct state assembly election with Lok Sabha election in J-K," he said.</p>

<p>"All political parties asked the ECI to conduct an assembly election with Lok Sabha polls, but security agencies advised us that it would not be possible to provide security as there was a need for the deployment of huge security forces. But we are seriously thinking of conducting polls in JK after the Lok Sabha polls. JK will be the first state to go in the election after the Lok Sabha polls," he said.</p>

<p>He further said that the ECI is "seriously" looking into conducting the elections in Jammu and Kashmir after the Lok Sabha polls.</p>

<p>Speaking about the high-level committee submitting its report on the 'One Nation, One Election' proposal, Kumar said that the ECI would conduct elections according to the constitutional provisions.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: CEC Rajiv Kumar explains over not conducting Parliamentary &amp; Assembly polls together in J&amp;K; says, "During our recent visit to Srinagar and Jammu, the J&amp;K Administration told us that two elections can't be held at the same time due to more security requirements.… <a href="https://t.co/xfzVt7hKxY">pic.twitter.com/xfzVt7hKxY</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1768965381874393290?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There is a provision in the Constitution for conducting elections. Article 83(2) of the Constitution of India states that the House of the People will continue for five years from the date of its first meeting. There is a clause in Section 14 of the RP Act, 1951 that elections for the Parliament be must held six months before the end of the Assembly. As long as this article is there in the Constitution and there are provisions for People's Representation and People's Act, our job is to conduct elections according to them," Kumar said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-2024-date-announced-check-full-schedule-voting-and-result-of-india-general-elections-700677">Lok Sabha Election 2024: Voting from April 19 in 7 phases: Check full schedule</a></p>

<h2><strong>'How is security alright for parliamentary polls and not state elections,' questions Farooq Abdullah</strong></h2>

<p>National Conference supremo Farooq Abdullah, expressed dismay over ECI's decision to not conduct Parliamentary and Assembly polls simultaneously in Jammu and Kashmir.</p>

<p>The former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister said that the poll body on one hand was planning on conducting Assembly polls in four states that would be coinciding with Lok Sabha elections but J&amp;K was denied this opportunity.</p>

<p>"On one side the Govt of India wanted One Nation, One Election and on the other side, they are holding State elections and parliamentary elections in four states, why is this (J-K) being denied? When every party wanted elections (in J-K) then what is the reason it is not being done?," news agency ANI quoted Abdullah as saying.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | On the announcement of Lok Sabha election dates, National Conference Chief Farooq Abdullah says, "On one side the Govt of India wanted One Nation, One Election and on the other side, they are holding State elections and parliamentary elections in 4 states, why is this… <a href="https://t.co/zwZDWOL6By">pic.twitter.com/zwZDWOL6By</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1768964997114114338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Abdullah, further questioning the observations made by Kumar, said, "If they say security is the reason, I do not think so. How is that security is alright for the parliamentary elections and not for the state elections?"</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) on Saturday (March 16) announced that the assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir would be conducted after the Lok Sabha elections.

India's Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) on Saturday (March 16) announced that the assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir would be conducted after the Lok Sabha elections. "We are yet to hold assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. The way for conducting legal elections has opened since December 23. This is March, and there is snowfall in the region, hence the question of holding elections does not arise at this point," Kumar was quoted as saying by the news agency ANI. "We (ECI) went to Jammu and Kashmir and were asked by all the political parties there to hold the state assembly elections with the Lok Sabha polls. After that, we held administrative meetings wherein it was discussed that a lot of security forces would be required to conduct state assembly election with Lok Sabha election in J-K," he said. "All political parties asked the ECI to conduct an assembly election with Lok Sabha polls, but security agencies advised us that it would not be possible to provide security as there was a need for the deployment of huge security forces. But we are seriously thinking of conducting polls in JK after the Lok Sabha polls. JK will be the first state to go in the election after the Lok Sabha polls," he said. He further said that the ECI is "seriously" looking into conducting the elections in Jammu and Kashmir after the Lok Sabha polls. Speaking about the high-level committee submitting its report on the 'One Nation, One Election' proposal, Kumar said that the ECI would conduct elections according to the constitutional provisions. #WATCH | Delhi: CEC Rajiv Kumar explains over not conducting Parliamentary & Assembly polls together in J&K; says, "During our recent visit to Srinagar and Jammu, the J&K Administration told us that two elections can't be held at the same time due to more security requirements.… pic.twitter.com/xfzVt7hKxY — ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2024 × "There is a provision in the Constitution for conducting elections. Article 83(2) of the Constitution of India states that the House of the People will continue for five years from the date of its first meeting. There is a clause in Section 14 of the RP Act, 1951 that elections for the Parliament be must held six months before the end of the Assembly. As long as this article is there in the Constitution and there are provisions for People's Representation and People's Act, our job is to conduct elections according to them," Kumar said. Also read: Lok Sabha Election 2024: Voting from April 19 in 7 phases: Check full schedule 'How is security alright for parliamentary polls and not state elections,' questions Farooq Abdullah National Conference supremo Farooq Abdullah, expressed dismay over ECI's decision to not conduct Parliamentary and Assembly polls simultaneously in Jammu and Kashmir. The former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister said that the poll body on one hand was planning on conducting Assembly polls in four states that would be coinciding with Lok Sabha elections but J&K was denied this opportunity. "On one side the Govt of India wanted One Nation, One Election and on the other side, they are holding State elections and parliamentary elections in four states, why is this (J-K) being denied? When every party wanted elections (in J-K) then what is the reason it is not being done?," news agency ANI quoted Abdullah as saying. #WATCH | On the announcement of Lok Sabha election dates, National Conference Chief Farooq Abdullah says, "On one side the Govt of India wanted One Nation, One Election and on the other side, they are holding State elections and parliamentary elections in 4 states, why is this… pic.twitter.com/zwZDWOL6By — ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2024 × Abdullah, further questioning the observations made by Kumar, said, "If they say security is the reason, I do not think so. How is that security is alright for the parliamentary elections and not for the state elections?" (With inputs from agencies)

Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir to be held after Lok Sabha polls, announces CEC Rajiv Kumar

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


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

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

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

<p><strong>Lok Sabha elections 2024 date announcement live streaming:</strong> The Election Commission of India on Friday said that the full schedule for the upcoming general elections will be released on Saturday (Mar 16). A press conference will be held by the poll body at 3 PM local time on Saturday where dates will be announced for Lok Sabha elections as well as some state assemblies, it said in a post on X.</p>

<p>The term of the current Lok Sabha, elected in 2019, ends on June 16 and the ECI is entrusted with the responsibility of conducting fresh elections&nbsp;before that deadline.</p>

<p>In 2019, the ECI had announced the full schedule on March 10 and the polls were held in seven phases across the vast nation. The results were announced on May 23.</p>

<h2><strong>When and where to watch live stream of India election dates announcement?</strong></h2>

<p>The full schedule of the Lok Sabha elections will be declared by the Election Commission of India at 3 PM local time on Saturday at a press conference.<br />
<br />
The body said it will livestream the press conference on all social media platforms, including YouTube, X and Facebook.</p>

<p>People can follow ECI’s social media handles to get timely updates and watch the live stream seamlessly.</p>

<p>Additionally, the press conference will be broadcast live on WION’s TV channel. All updates regarding the same will be reported by WION’s website and all social media handles. You can track all updates on WION’s app.</p>

<h2><strong>When will&nbsp;Lok Sabha elections 2024 dates be announced?</strong></h2>

<p>Lok Sabha elections 2024 dates will be announced on Mar 16, Saturday.</p>

<h2><strong>What time will&nbsp;Lok Sabha elections 2024 dates be announced?</strong></h2>

<p>Lok Sabha elections 2024 dates will be announced at 3PM IST on Saturday.</p>

<h2><strong>Where will Election Commission's press conference be livestreamed?</strong></h2>

<p>Election Commision's press conference will be livestreamed on all social media handles of the poll body, as well as WION's TV, app and website.</p>


Lok Sabha elections 2024 date announcement live streaming: The Election Commission of India on Friday said that the full schedule for the upcoming general elections will be released on Saturday (Mar 16).

Lok Sabha elections 2024 date announcement live streaming: The Election Commission of India on Friday said that the full schedule for the upcoming general elections will be released on Saturday (Mar 16). A press conference will be held by the poll body at 3 PM local time on Saturday where dates will be announced for Lok Sabha elections as well as some state assemblies, it said in a post on X. The term of the current Lok Sabha, elected in 2019, ends on June 16 and the ECI is entrusted with the responsibility of conducting fresh elections before that deadline. In 2019, the ECI had announced the full schedule on March 10 and the polls were held in seven phases across the vast nation. The results were announced on May 23. When and where to watch live stream of India election dates announcement? The full schedule of the Lok Sabha elections will be declared by the Election Commission of India at 3 PM local time on Saturday at a press conference. The body said it will livestream the press conference on all social media platforms, including YouTube, X and Facebook. People can follow ECI’s social media handles to get timely updates and watch the live stream seamlessly. Additionally, the press conference will be broadcast live on WION’s TV channel. All updates regarding the same will be reported by WION’s website and all social media handles. You can track all updates on WION’s app. When will Lok Sabha elections 2024 dates be announced? Lok Sabha elections 2024 dates will be announced on Mar 16, Saturday. What time will Lok Sabha elections 2024 dates be announced? Lok Sabha elections 2024 dates will be announced at 3PM IST on Saturday. Where will Election Commission's press conference be livestreamed? Election Commision's press conference will be livestreamed on all social media handles of the poll body, as well as WION's TV, app and website.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024 dates Live Announcement: When and where to watch live stream by Election Commission

India's 2024 elections: The election commission of India has announced the dates for the general elections, The elections will begin from the 19th of April and the results will be declared on the 4th of June. India's parliamentary election for 543 seats of the lower house of parliament the Lok Saba will be held in seven phases...Watch to know more!

Lok Sabha Elections Schedule 2024: Voting from April 19 to June 1, results on June 4

Lok Sabha Election Schedule 2024: By-elections on 26 Assembly seats with Lok Sabha Polls

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has unveiled the schedule for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls and assembly elections in some states...Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar detailed the schedule & emphasized on the election process for the upcoming polls during a press briefing in Vigyan Bhawan, Delhi. Watch to know more!

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Polls to be held from April 19 to June 1 in 7 phases

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: EC announces poll dates, General Elections to be held in 7 phases

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Polling for General Elections to be held on April 19

India Lok Sabha Polls 2024: Model Code of Conduct kicks in with announcement of poll dates

India Lok Sabha Elections: Chief Election Commissioner warns against spread of fake news

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has unveiled the schedule for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls and assembly elections in some states...Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar detailed the election schedule for the Lok Sabha Polls 2024 during a briefing in Vigyan Bhawan. Watch to know more!

Lok Sabha Elections: ECI's 4M formula to guarantee free & fair elections

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has unveiled the schedule for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls and assembly elections in some states...Meanwhile, Political parties have started announcing their candidates. Watch the press conference of ECI to know more.

Lok Sabha Elections: ECI announces dates for Lok Sabha polls & Assembly election for 4 states

India's Election Commission will be announcing the dates for the 2024 General Elections tomorrow and with that the model code of conduct will come into force from the time the dates are announced. Watch to know more!

India General Elections 2024: Election Commission to announce election schedule on March 16

Will India hold simultaneous polls at the state & central levels in the future? That's the million-dollar question in the minds of policymakers. Such an exercise will be unprecedented in size and execution. But will it also have a major socio-economic impact? We find out in this report.

India elections 2024: Decoding the economics behind simultaneous polls

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge has indicated that he might not contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, citing his age as a factor influencing this decision. Kharge was the MP from Karnataka's Gulbarga from 2009-2014 and had lost from the same seat in 2019.

India Elections 2024: Mallikarjun Kharge to not contest in Lok Sabha polls?

In one of the biggest pre poll announcement from the Congress Camp, Party Chief Mallikarjun Kharge has indicated that he might not contest the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections. Watch to know more!

India Elections 2024: Congress Chief Mallikarjun Kharge hints not contesting Lok Sabha polls

<p>India's opposition party Congress, reacting over India's Election Commissioner Arun Goel's resignation, expressed "deep concern" over the sudden step and warned against the dangerous trend of independent institutions' systematic erosion in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The party warned that if this trend is not halted, democracy will be supplanted by dictatorship.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, in a post on X, said, "Election Commission or Election OMISSION? India now has only one Election Commissioner, even as Lok Sabha elections are to be announced in a few days. Why? As I have said earlier, if we do not stop the systematic decimation of our independent institutions, our democracy shall be usurped by dictatorship."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-releases-first-list-of-39-candidates-for-lok-sabha-elections-rahul-gandhi-to-contest-from-wayanad-698114">Lok Sabha Elections: Congress releases first list of 39 candidates, Rahul Gandhi to contest from Wayanad</a></p>

<p>"The ECI will now be among the last Constitutional institutions to fall. Since the new process of selecting the Election Commissioners has now effectively given all the power to the ruling party and the PM, why has the new Election Commissioner not appointed even after 23 days of the completion of latter's tenure? Modi government must answer these questions and come out with a reasonable explanation," added the Congress president.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Election Commission or Election OMISSION?<br />
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India now has only ONE Election Commissioner, even as Lok Sabha elections are to be announced in few days. Why?<br />
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As I have said earlier, if we do NOT stop the systematic decimation of our independent institutions, our DEMOCRACY shall…</p>
— Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) <a href="https://twitter.com/kharge/status/1766514087188435427?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Questions loom over Goel's resignation</strong></h2>

<p>The sudden resignation of India's Election Commissioner Arun Goel days before the announcement of Lok Sabha election dates has raised many eyebrows.</p>

<p>Although, in his resignation letter,&nbsp;Goel stated "personal reasons", it was reported by NDTV that his differences with the Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar may have led to the exit.</p>

<p>On Saturday (Mar 9), Arun Goel resigned days before the schedule for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections was to be announced.</p>

<p>He was to remain as the Election Commissioner till December 5, 2027, and would have taken the place of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) after the retirement of incumbent Rajiv Kumar in February of next year.</p>

<p>The Election Commission of India consists of a poll panel that has three members. One of the position was vacant, and with&nbsp;Goel's resignation,&nbsp;Kumar&nbsp;remains the only person&nbsp;on the poll panel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;List of Congress candidates likely to be declared this week: Reports</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/list-of-congress-candidates-likely-to-be-declared-this-week-reports-697271/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>As per&nbsp;media reports, the Lok Sabha election dates are set to be announced next week by the Election Commission. However, the unexpected departure of Goel has cast doubt on the earlier anticipated timeline.</p>

<p>The lack of transparency in the Election Commission was also criticised by Congress leader KC Venugopal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is quite shocking; just before the declaration of elections, the Election Commissioner has resigned. Now, only one Election Commissioner is there... What is happening in this Election Commission? The entire country is anxious. The government of India doesn't want a free and fair election," said the Congress general secretary.</p>

<p>Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut, also raised question on the unexpected resignation and said that the Election Commission of India is not an autonomous watchdog anymore.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Whether the ECI exists or not, it has no meaning especially after how it has given orders under BJP's pressure in the cases of Shiv Sena and NCP splits, completely in violation of the 10th schedule," said Raut. "The ECI is not the autonomous watchdog it used to be in the time of TN Seshan, but works as an extended branch of the BJP," he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's opposition party Congress, reacting over India's Election Commissioner Arun Goel's resignation, expressed "deep concern" over the sudden step and warned against the dangerous trend of independent institutions' systematic erosion in the country.

India's opposition party Congress, reacting over India's Election Commissioner Arun Goel's resignation, expressed "deep concern" over the sudden step and warned against the dangerous trend of independent institutions' systematic erosion in the country. The party warned that if this trend is not halted, democracy will be supplanted by dictatorship. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, in a post on X, said, "Election Commission or Election OMISSION? India now has only one Election Commissioner, even as Lok Sabha elections are to be announced in a few days. Why? As I have said earlier, if we do not stop the systematic decimation of our independent institutions, our democracy shall be usurped by dictatorship." Also Read: Lok Sabha Elections: Congress releases first list of 39 candidates, Rahul Gandhi to contest from Wayanad "The ECI will now be among the last Constitutional institutions to fall. Since the new process of selecting the Election Commissioners has now effectively given all the power to the ruling party and the PM, why has the new Election Commissioner not appointed even after 23 days of the completion of latter's tenure? Modi government must answer these questions and come out with a reasonable explanation," added the Congress president. Election Commission or Election OMISSION? India now has only ONE Election Commissioner, even as Lok Sabha elections are to be announced in few days. Why? As I have said earlier, if we do NOT stop the systematic decimation of our independent institutions, our DEMOCRACY shall… — Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) March 9, 2024 × Questions loom over Goel's resignation The sudden resignation of India's Election Commissioner Arun Goel days before the announcement of Lok Sabha election dates has raised many eyebrows. Although, in his resignation letter, Goel stated "personal reasons", it was reported by NDTV that his differences with the Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar may have led to the exit. On Saturday (Mar 9), Arun Goel resigned days before the schedule for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections was to be announced. He was to remain as the Election Commissioner till December 5, 2027, and would have taken the place of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) after the retirement of incumbent Rajiv Kumar in February of next year. The Election Commission of India consists of a poll panel that has three members. One of the position was vacant, and with Goel's resignation, Kumar remains the only person on the poll panel. Watch: List of Congress candidates likely to be declared this week: Reports As per media reports, the Lok Sabha election dates are set to be announced next week by the Election Commission. However, the unexpected departure of Goel has cast doubt on the earlier anticipated timeline. The lack of transparency in the Election Commission was also criticised by Congress leader KC Venugopal. "This is quite shocking; just before the declaration of elections, the Election Commissioner has resigned. Now, only one Election Commissioner is there... What is happening in this Election Commission? The entire country is anxious. The government of India doesn't want a free and fair election," said the Congress general secretary. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut, also raised question on the unexpected resignation and said that the Election Commission of India is not an autonomous watchdog anymore. "Whether the ECI exists or not, it has no meaning especially after how it has given orders under BJP's pressure in the cases of Shiv Sena and NCP splits, completely in violation of the 10th schedule," said Raut. "The ECI is not the autonomous watchdog it used to be in the time of TN Seshan, but works as an extended branch of the BJP," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Congress reacts after Election Commissioner Arun Goel resigns, says 'If we don't stop...'

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<p>The Indian Cabinet on Thursday (Mar 7) approved a four per cent hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) for central government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) to pensioners by four per cent from January 1, 2024. These decisions come ahead of the Lok Sabha elections this year.</p>

<p>Briefing the media about Cabinet decisions, Indian Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said that 4.9 million employees and nearly 6.8 million pensioners will benefit from the government decision.</p>

<p>The decision would cost $1.55 billion (Rs 12,868.72 crore) per annum to the exchequer, Goyal added.</p>

<h2><strong>A look at the increase in rates</strong></h2>

<p>According to a report by the news agency ANI on Thursday, the additional instalment of DA and DR to pensioners represents an increase of four per cent over the existing rate of 46 per cent of the basic pay/pension to compensate against price rise.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cabinet?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cabinet</a> approves hike in Dearness Allowance to Government employees and Dearness Relief to pensioners by 4% from January 1, 2024<br />
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Around 50 lakh employees and 68 lakh pensioners to benefit from this: Union Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/PiyushGoyal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PiyushGoyal</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CabinetDecisions?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CabinetDecisions</a> <a href="https://t.co/N7Ao405X2v">pic.twitter.com/N7Ao405X2v</a></p>
— PIB India (@PIB_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/PIB_India/status/1765753582039478585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"This increase is in accordance with the accepted formula, which is based on the recommendations of the 7th Central Pay Commission," a government statement said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several central ministers and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders hailed the government's decision to approve the increase in DA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the increase in DA, transport allowance, canteen allowance, and deputation allowance among others have been increased by 25 per cent. House Rent Allowance has been raised from 27 per cent, 19 per cent and 9 per cent of basic pay to 30 per cent, 20 per cent and 10 per cent, respectively.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Indian Cabinet on Thursday (Mar 7) approved a four per cent hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) for central government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) to pensioners by four per cent from January 1, 2024.

The Indian Cabinet on Thursday (Mar 7) approved a four per cent hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) for central government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) to pensioners by four per cent from January 1, 2024. These decisions come ahead of the Lok Sabha elections this year. Briefing the media about Cabinet decisions, Indian Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said that 4.9 million employees and nearly 6.8 million pensioners will benefit from the government decision. The decision would cost $1.55 billion (Rs 12,868.72 crore) per annum to the exchequer, Goyal added. A look at the increase in rates According to a report by the news agency ANI on Thursday, the additional instalment of DA and DR to pensioners represents an increase of four per cent over the existing rate of 46 per cent of the basic pay/pension to compensate against price rise. #Cabinet approves hike in Dearness Allowance to Government employees and Dearness Relief to pensioners by 4% from January 1, 2024 Around 50 lakh employees and 68 lakh pensioners to benefit from this: Union Minister @PiyushGoyal#CabinetDecisions pic.twitter.com/N7Ao405X2v — PIB India (@PIB_India) March 7, 2024 × "This increase is in accordance with the accepted formula, which is based on the recommendations of the 7th Central Pay Commission," a government statement said. Several central ministers and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders hailed the government's decision to approve the increase in DA. With the increase in DA, transport allowance, canteen allowance, and deputation allowance among others have been increased by 25 per cent. House Rent Allowance has been raised from 27 per cent, 19 per cent and 9 per cent of basic pay to 30 per cent, 20 per cent and 10 per cent, respectively. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Cabinet approves 4% hike in Dearness Allowance for central govt employees ahead of Lok Sabha polls

The Central government could notify the rules for the contentious Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) before the Election Commission of India (ECI) implements the Model Code of Conduct before the Lok Sabha elections. Watch in for more details!

India: Centre to implement CAA rules before Lok Sabha polls announcement

India: CAA rules to be notified before Lok Sabha polls announcement

<p>The guidelines for the implementation of the controversial Citizenship Amendment Act, 2019 (CAA), designed to expedite citizenship for undocumented non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, are expected to be issued before the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections comes into force.</p>

<p><strong>Also read</strong>:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-caa-will-be-put-into-effect-prior-to-the-lok-sabha-elections-says-amit-shah-688930">CAA will be implemented before upcoming Lok Sabha elections, says Amit Shah</a></p>

<p>The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) becomes enforceable immediately after the announcement of the election schedule, anticipated in the next fortnight.</p>

<p>Insiders familiar with the matter suggest that the rules for the CAA are likely to be released before the MCC comes into effect.</p>

<p>Upon the issuance of the CAA rules, the Modi government will initiate the process of granting Indian citizenship to persecuted non-Muslim migrants, including Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, Parsis, and Christians, from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan who arrived in India by December 31, 2014.</p>

<p>Although the CAA was passed in December 2019 and received presidential assent, its implementation has been delayed pending the formulation of necessary rules.</p>

<p>Massive protests erupted in various parts of the country following the passage of the CAA by Parliament, resulting in over a hundred casualties during the protests or police actions.</p>

<p>The Ministry of Home Affairs has developed an online portal to streamline the application process for the convenience of applicants.</p>

<p>Applicants will be required to declare the year of their entry into India without travel documents, and no additional documents will be requested, as per an official statement.</p>

<p>The CAA provides benefits to undocumented minorities from three neighboring countries, and the Union Home Minister, Amit Shah, emphasised its implementation, stating that it is the law of the land.</p>

<p>The Trinamool Congress (TMC), led by Mamata Banerjee, has consistently opposed the CAA, and it was a significant electoral promise for the BJP in the last Lok Sabha and Assembly polls in West Bengal.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India Minister of State for Home Affairs Ajay Kumar Mishra says, 'CAA rules will be framed in 2024'</strong></p>

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<p>As per the Manual on Parliamentary Work, rules for any legislation should have been framed within six months of presidential assent, or an extension should be sought from the Committees on Subordinate Legislation in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. The home ministry has been periodically seeking extensions since 2020.</p>

<p>In the past two years, district magistrates and home secretaries in nine states have been granted the authority to confer Indian citizenship on Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan under the Citizenship Act, 1955.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/caa-rules-may-be-notified-much-before-lok-sabha-elections-report-676226">CAA rules can be notified ‘much before’ Lok Sabha elections, says report</a></p>

<p>The annual report of the Ministry of Home Affairs for 2021-22 indicates that from April 1, 2021, to December 31, 2021, a total of 1,414 foreigners belonging to these non-Muslim minority communities were granted Indian citizenship by registration or naturalisation.</p>

<p>These states include Gujarat, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Maharashtra. Notably, authorities in districts of Assam and West Bengal, sensitive political regions, have not yet been conferred this authority.</p>

<p>(<em>With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The guidelines for the implementation of the controversial Citizenship Amendment Act, 2019 (CAA), designed to expedite citizenship for undocumented non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, are expected to be issued before the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections comes into force.

The guidelines for the implementation of the controversial Citizenship Amendment Act, 2019 (CAA), designed to expedite citizenship for undocumented non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, are expected to be issued before the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections comes into force. Also read: CAA will be implemented before upcoming Lok Sabha elections, says Amit Shah The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) becomes enforceable immediately after the announcement of the election schedule, anticipated in the next fortnight. Insiders familiar with the matter suggest that the rules for the CAA are likely to be released before the MCC comes into effect. Upon the issuance of the CAA rules, the Modi government will initiate the process of granting Indian citizenship to persecuted non-Muslim migrants, including Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, Parsis, and Christians, from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan who arrived in India by December 31, 2014. Although the CAA was passed in December 2019 and received presidential assent, its implementation has been delayed pending the formulation of necessary rules. Massive protests erupted in various parts of the country following the passage of the CAA by Parliament, resulting in over a hundred casualties during the protests or police actions. The Ministry of Home Affairs has developed an online portal to streamline the application process for the convenience of applicants. Applicants will be required to declare the year of their entry into India without travel documents, and no additional documents will be requested, as per an official statement. The CAA provides benefits to undocumented minorities from three neighboring countries, and the Union Home Minister, Amit Shah, emphasised its implementation, stating that it is the law of the land. The Trinamool Congress (TMC), led by Mamata Banerjee, has consistently opposed the CAA, and it was a significant electoral promise for the BJP in the last Lok Sabha and Assembly polls in West Bengal. Watch: India Minister of State for Home Affairs Ajay Kumar Mishra says, 'CAA rules will be framed in 2024' × As per the Manual on Parliamentary Work, rules for any legislation should have been framed within six months of presidential assent, or an extension should be sought from the Committees on Subordinate Legislation in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. The home ministry has been periodically seeking extensions since 2020. In the past two years, district magistrates and home secretaries in nine states have been granted the authority to confer Indian citizenship on Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan under the Citizenship Act, 1955. Also read: CAA rules can be notified ‘much before’ Lok Sabha elections, says report The annual report of the Ministry of Home Affairs for 2021-22 indicates that from April 1, 2021, to December 31, 2021, a total of 1,414 foreigners belonging to these non-Muslim minority communities were granted Indian citizenship by registration or naturalisation. These states include Gujarat, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Maharashtra. Notably, authorities in districts of Assam and West Bengal, sensitive political regions, have not yet been conferred this authority. (With inputs from agencies)

Govt to notify CAA rules before model code of conduct for polls comes into effect in India: Sources

Ahead of the general election in India, every party members are weighing their options of political gains and survival .Considerations like these are making for a season of defections.

Bahujan Samaj Party MP joins BJP, 3 more in talks

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<p>The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal granted de-froze the bank accounts of India's main opposition party Congress on Friday (Feb 16). In a post on X, Congress' Rajya Sabha MP Vivek Tankha said, "Congress can operate its accounts with a lien of the IT Dept thereon !! Direction by Hon ITAT delhi. Prayer for interim relief will be heard on Wednesday (Feb 21)."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">⁦⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@INCIndia</a>⁩ can operate its accounts with a lien of the IT Dept thereon !! Direction by Hon ITAT delhi. Prayer for interim relief will be heard on Wednesday. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/inc?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#inc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bankaccounts?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bankaccounts</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/initialrelief?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#initialrelief</a> <a href="https://t.co/BqMNG2jUYE">pic.twitter.com/BqMNG2jUYE</a></p>
— Vivek Tankha (@VTankha) <a href="https://twitter.com/VTankha/status/1758380186410561654?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier on Friday, Congress treasurer Ajay Makan had said the accounts were frozen. "You will be surprised to know that democracy has completely ended in India. The Congress received information the day before yesterday that the party's bank cheques issued were not being honoured," Maken said.</p>

<p>"When we started probing this matter, we were told that all the bank accounts of the party were frozen," Maken said, adding that not just bank accounts (of Congress) were frozen but the country's democracy has also been frozen. He pointed out that the Youth Congress' bank accounts have also been frozen.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">हिंदुस्तान में लोकतंत्र पूरी तरह से खत्म हो चुका है।<br />
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देश की मुख्य विपक्षी पार्टी के सारे अकाउंट्स फ्रीज कर दिए गए हैं। भारतीय राष्ट्रीय कांग्रेस के अकाउंट पर तालाबंदी कर दी गई है।<br />
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ये कांग्रेस पार्टी के अकाउंट्स फ्रीज नहीं हुए, हमारे देश का लोकतंत्र फ्रीज हो गया है।<br />
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: कांग्रेस… <a href="https://t.co/ndoT5IHKtg">pic.twitter.com/ndoT5IHKtg</a></p>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1758368497061810613?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Just a few weeks are left for the announcement of the election dates and the bank accounts of the main opposition party have been frozen. What does the central government want to prove?" the party treasurer further said.</p>

<h2><strong>Why were the bank accounts frozen?</strong></h2>

<p>According to the Congress, the accounts were frozen on an Income Tax demand of $25.28 million (Rs 210 crore) for 2018-19. Maken told reporters on Friday that Congress already appealed to the Income Tax appellate authority.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-claims-farmers-to-get-legal-guarantees-for-msp-after-india-alliance-forms-govt-689951">Rahul Gandhi announces legal guarantees for MSP to farmers if INDIA alliance forms govt</a></strong></p>

<p>Maken also said that the party doesn't have "any money to spend, to pay electricity bills, to pay salaries to our employees." He highlighted that all activities of the Congress will be impacted.</p>

<h2><strong>'A deep assault on India's democracy'</strong></h2>

<p>Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge lashed out at the Modi government over the freezing of bank accounts. In a post on X, Kharge said, "Power drunk Modi Govt has frozen the accounts of the country’s largest Opposition party - the Indian National Congress - just before the Lok Sabha elections. This is a deep assault on India's Democracy!"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Power drunk Modi Govt has frozen the accounts of the country’s largest Opposition party - the Indian National Congress - just before the Lok Sabha elections.<br />
<br />
This is a deep assault on India's Democracy !<br />
<br />
The UNCONSTITUTIONAL money collected by the BJP would be utilised by them…</p>
— Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) <a href="https://twitter.com/kharge/status/1758374494387990726?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"The&nbsp;<em>UNCONSTITUTIONAL</em>&nbsp;money collected by the BJP would be utilised by them for elections, but the money collected by us through&nbsp;<em>CROWDFUNDING</em>&nbsp;shall be sealed!" Kharge added.</p>

<p>The Congress president further appealed to the judiciary to save the multi-party system in this country and protect India's Democracy.</p>


The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal granted de-froze the bank accounts of India's main opposition party Congress on Friday (Feb 16). In a post on X, Congress' Rajya Sabha MP Vivek Tankha said, "Congress can operate its accounts with a lien of the IT Dept thereon !

The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal granted de-froze the bank accounts of India's main opposition party Congress on Friday (Feb 16). In a post on X, Congress' Rajya Sabha MP Vivek Tankha said, "Congress can operate its accounts with a lien of the IT Dept thereon !! Direction by Hon ITAT delhi. Prayer for interim relief will be heard on Wednesday (Feb 21)." ⁦⁦@INCIndia⁩ can operate its accounts with a lien of the IT Dept thereon !! Direction by Hon ITAT delhi. Prayer for interim relief will be heard on Wednesday. #inc #bankaccounts #initialrelief pic.twitter.com/BqMNG2jUYE — Vivek Tankha (@VTankha) February 16, 2024 × Earlier on Friday, Congress treasurer Ajay Makan had said the accounts were frozen. "You will be surprised to know that democracy has completely ended in India. The Congress received information the day before yesterday that the party's bank cheques issued were not being honoured," Maken said. "When we started probing this matter, we were told that all the bank accounts of the party were frozen," Maken said, adding that not just bank accounts (of Congress) were frozen but the country's democracy has also been frozen. He pointed out that the Youth Congress' bank accounts have also been frozen. हिंदुस्तान में लोकतंत्र पूरी तरह से खत्म हो चुका है। देश की मुख्य विपक्षी पार्टी के सारे अकाउंट्स फ्रीज कर दिए गए हैं। भारतीय राष्ट्रीय कांग्रेस के अकाउंट पर तालाबंदी कर दी गई है। ये कांग्रेस पार्टी के अकाउंट्स फ्रीज नहीं हुए, हमारे देश का लोकतंत्र फ्रीज हो गया है। : कांग्रेस… pic.twitter.com/ndoT5IHKtg — Congress (@INCIndia) February 16, 2024 × "Just a few weeks are left for the announcement of the election dates and the bank accounts of the main opposition party have been frozen. What does the central government want to prove?" the party treasurer further said. Why were the bank accounts frozen? According to the Congress, the accounts were frozen on an Income Tax demand of $25.28 million (Rs 210 crore) for 2018-19. Maken told reporters on Friday that Congress already appealed to the Income Tax appellate authority. Also read | Rahul Gandhi announces legal guarantees for MSP to farmers if INDIA alliance forms govt Maken also said that the party doesn't have "any money to spend, to pay electricity bills, to pay salaries to our employees." He highlighted that all activities of the Congress will be impacted. 'A deep assault on India's democracy' Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge lashed out at the Modi government over the freezing of bank accounts. In a post on X, Kharge said, "Power drunk Modi Govt has frozen the accounts of the country’s largest Opposition party - the Indian National Congress - just before the Lok Sabha elections. This is a deep assault on India's Democracy!" Power drunk Modi Govt has frozen the accounts of the country’s largest Opposition party - the Indian National Congress - just before the Lok Sabha elections. This is a deep assault on India's Democracy ! The UNCONSTITUTIONAL money collected by the BJP would be utilised by them… — Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) February 16, 2024 × "The UNCONSTITUTIONAL money collected by the BJP would be utilised by them for elections, but the money collected by us through CROWDFUNDING shall be sealed!" Kharge added. The Congress president further appealed to the judiciary to save the multi-party system in this country and protect India's Democracy.

India: Congress' 'frozen' bank accounts now operational

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


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

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

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

<p>Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday (Feb 1) presented the Interim Budget for the fiscal year 2024, without announcing any major policies or changes in the taxation structure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During her shortest speech of 58 minutes, Sitharaman underlined the government's commitment to stability in taxation and a strategic approach to encourage economic growth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The interim budget aims to take care of the fiscal needs of the intervening period until a government is formed after the general elections. A full budget will be presented probably in July.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But this Interim Budget doesn't include anything major, unlike how it was in 2019 when the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government had presented a budget ahead of Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This budget hints at the confidence of the Modi administration ahead of the upcoming polls, as they seem to be certain of scoring a victory in the elections, after which a full budget will be presented.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-budget-2024-for-railways-fm-sitharaman-says-3-major-economic-corridor-programmes-to-be-implemented-685834">India Budget 2024: For railways, FM Sitharaman says 3 major economic corridor programmes to be implemented</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>What were the major announcements of the Interim Budget 2019?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In 2019, the interim budget was tabled by then finance minister Piyush Goyal, who had given the additional charge of the finance ministry due to Arun Jaitley's ill health.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Farmers&nbsp;</strong><br />
Usually, the government doesn't announce anything major in interim budgets, but Goyal introduced some crucial changes in 2019, including an extension to the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He had said that 120 million small and marginal farmers to be provided with an assured yearly income of Rs 6000 per annum under the scheme. "Our government is launching a historic programme PM-KISAN with an outlay of Rs 75,000 crore for the FY 2019-20 and Rs 20,000 crore in the Revised Estimates of FY 2018-19," Goyal had said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Assured MSP of minimum 50 per cent to all 22 crops, interest subvention doubled in last five years, and announcements for soil health card, neem-coated urea emerged as a game changer in the farm sector.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-interim-budget-key-takeaways-from-nirmala-sitharamans-budget-speech-685817">India interim Budget 2024: Key takeaways from Nirmala Sitharaman's speech</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Labour&nbsp;</strong><br />
For labourers, the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan scheme was announced to ensure a fixed monthly pension to 100 million unorganised sector workers. Rs 3000 per month after 60 years of age with an affordable contribution of only Rs 100/55 per month was also announced.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Health&nbsp;</strong><br />
Goyal had said that the 22nd All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) was to be set up in the north-western state of Haryana.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Direct Tax proposals&nbsp;</strong><br />
Income up to Rs 5 lakh exempted from Income Tax and more than Rs 23,000 crore tax relief to three million middle-class taxpayers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Defence&nbsp;</strong><br />
The defence budget crossed Rs 3,00,000 crore for the first time ever.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>Railways&nbsp;</strong><br />
Capital support of Rs 64,587 crore was proposed in 2019-20 (BE) from the budget and overall capital expenditure programme to be of Rs 1,58,658 crore.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Poor and Backward Classes</strong><br />
For the underprivileged class, Goyal had said that the "first right on the resources of the country is that of the poor". A 25 per cent additional seats in educational institutions to meet the 10 per cent reservation for the poor.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Entertainment Industry&nbsp;</strong><br />
Goyal had announced that Indian filmmakers will get access to single window clearance as well for ease of shooting films.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Digital Villages</strong><br />
The government had said that it would make 100,000 villages into Digital Villages over the next five years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday (Feb 1) presented the Interim Budget for the fiscal year 2024, without announcing any major policies or changes in the taxation structure.

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday (Feb 1) presented the Interim Budget for the fiscal year 2024, without announcing any major policies or changes in the taxation structure. During her shortest speech of 58 minutes, Sitharaman underlined the government's commitment to stability in taxation and a strategic approach to encourage economic growth. The interim budget aims to take care of the fiscal needs of the intervening period until a government is formed after the general elections. A full budget will be presented probably in July. But this Interim Budget doesn't include anything major, unlike how it was in 2019 when the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government had presented a budget ahead of Lok Sabha polls. This budget hints at the confidence of the Modi administration ahead of the upcoming polls, as they seem to be certain of scoring a victory in the elections, after which a full budget will be presented. Also read: India Budget 2024: For railways, FM Sitharaman says 3 major economic corridor programmes to be implemented What were the major announcements of the Interim Budget 2019? In 2019, the interim budget was tabled by then finance minister Piyush Goyal, who had given the additional charge of the finance ministry due to Arun Jaitley's ill health. Farmers Usually, the government doesn't announce anything major in interim budgets, but Goyal introduced some crucial changes in 2019, including an extension to the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme. He had said that 120 million small and marginal farmers to be provided with an assured yearly income of Rs 6000 per annum under the scheme. "Our government is launching a historic programme PM-KISAN with an outlay of Rs 75,000 crore for the FY 2019-20 and Rs 20,000 crore in the Revised Estimates of FY 2018-19," Goyal had said. Assured MSP of minimum 50 per cent to all 22 crops, interest subvention doubled in last five years, and announcements for soil health card, neem-coated urea emerged as a game changer in the farm sector. Also read | India interim Budget 2024: Key takeaways from Nirmala Sitharaman's speech Labour For labourers, the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan scheme was announced to ensure a fixed monthly pension to 100 million unorganised sector workers. Rs 3000 per month after 60 years of age with an affordable contribution of only Rs 100/55 per month was also announced. Health Goyal had said that the 22nd All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) was to be set up in the north-western state of Haryana. Direct Tax proposals Income up to Rs 5 lakh exempted from Income Tax and more than Rs 23,000 crore tax relief to three million middle-class taxpayers. Defence The defence budget crossed Rs 3,00,000 crore for the first time ever. × Railways Capital support of Rs 64,587 crore was proposed in 2019-20 (BE) from the budget and overall capital expenditure programme to be of Rs 1,58,658 crore. Poor and Backward Classes For the underprivileged class, Goyal had said that the "first right on the resources of the country is that of the poor". A 25 per cent additional seats in educational institutions to meet the 10 per cent reservation for the poor. Entertainment Industry Goyal had announced that Indian filmmakers will get access to single window clearance as well for ease of shooting films. Digital Villages The government had said that it would make 100,000 villages into Digital Villages over the next five years. (With inputs from agencies)

Election year vs Election year: How this year's budget is different from 2019 Interim Budget

<p>Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who recently stepped down as the party president, will visit Amethi on Wednesday and hold meetings with party workers.</p>

<p>This will be his first visit to Amethi after Congress's debacle in just-concluded Lok Sabha elections. He will also take feedback from Congress workers to assess the reason behind his party's humiliating defeat.</p>

<p>Rahul had lost Amethi seat to BJP leader Smriti Irani in the Lok Sabha elections. Rahul held the seat for the last 15 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Gandhi scion has made his resignation letter public last week. "It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation. I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love, " he had tweeted.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation.<br />
<br />
I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love.<br />
<br />
Jai Hind 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/WWGYt5YG4V">pic.twitter.com/WWGYt5YG4V</a></p>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1146359704815194112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Rahul Gandhi had also said that his party should elect a new Congress president without any further delay.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Party should decide on the new president quickly without further delay, I'm nowhere in this process. I have already submitted my resignation and I am no longer the party president. CWC should convene a meeting at the earliest and decide," he said.</p>

<p><br />
Rahul Gandhi had offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections. However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC.</p>

<p>Despite senior members making serious attempts to convince Rahul Gandhi to reconsider his decision to quit as the party chief, he remained unfazed.</p>

<p>The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than 2014 in the outgoing Lok Sabha.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who recently stepped down as the party president, will visit Amethi on Wednesday and hold meetings with party workers. This will be his first visit to Amethi after Congress's debacle in just-concluded Lok Sabha elections.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who recently stepped down as the party president, will visit Amethi on Wednesday and hold meetings with party workers. This will be his first visit to Amethi after Congress's debacle in just-concluded Lok Sabha elections. He will also take feedback from Congress workers to assess the reason behind his party's humiliating defeat. Rahul had lost Amethi seat to BJP leader Smriti Irani in the Lok Sabha elections. Rahul held the seat for the last 15 years. The Gandhi scion has made his resignation letter public last week. "It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation. I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love, " he had tweeted. It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation. I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love. Jai Hind 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/WWGYt5YG4V — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 3, 2019 × Rahul Gandhi had also said that his party should elect a new Congress president without any further delay. "Party should decide on the new president quickly without further delay, I'm nowhere in this process. I have already submitted my resignation and I am no longer the party president. CWC should convene a meeting at the earliest and decide," he said. Rahul Gandhi had offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections. However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC. Despite senior members making serious attempts to convince Rahul Gandhi to reconsider his decision to quit as the party chief, he remained unfazed. The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than 2014 in the outgoing Lok Sabha. (With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi to visit Amethi for first time after Congress's debacle in Lok Sabha elections

<p>The indefinite sit-in which was organised&nbsp;by several Congress party leaders&nbsp;urging Rahul Gandhi to take back his resignation ended peacefully on Tuesday evening.</p>

<p>Not more than 300 people gathered outside party headquarters when the sit-in started earlier in the day.</p>

<p>The number reduced to odd 150 people by evening. Through the day, not a single senior Congress leader came to express solidarity with junior AICC functionaries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The indefinite sit-in has been staged to create pressure on Rahul Gandhi to rescind his decision to resign from the post of Congress&nbsp;president after the party's&nbsp;abysmal performance in the 17th Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Junior AICC functionaries who have come for sit-in have refrained from giving speeches.</p>

<p>Not a single senior leader has come in for the event. Most of the leaders at the sit-in were appointed by Rahul Gandhi in the Congress during his tenure.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="congress sit in" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="00d840ce-d972-4f46-b21f-52d6593812a6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/sit-in.JPG" /></p>

<p><img alt="Congress workers protest for Rahul Gandhi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b2612617-a8d2-44fe-b323-3f78ed6a03d8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG-20190702-WA0048.jpg" /></p>

<p><img alt="Congress workers protest for Rahul Gandhi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8f5a30c-8fd9-4290-a0b6-d2d69bd5d3f6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG-20190702-WA0045.jpg" /></p>

<p>WION spoke to Virendra Vashisht, one of the AICC secretaries who put in his papers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We want Rahul Gandhi to take back his decision. We will wait but the sit-in is not directed against any senior leader," Vashisht said.</p>

<p>The sit-in internally has drawn ire of the senior leaders who feel that it is unnecessarily creating more embarrassment for the already beleaguered party.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many junior leaders wanted to erect a podium and give speeches but at the last minute, they decided against it. The tag line for the protest is <em>"Satyagraha mein Agrha."</em>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The event is going to last through the day. There is also no clarity on the matter whether junior leaders with such small numbers will be able to carry it for a few days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official rung of the party is upset and deeply divided over this protest.</p>


The indefinite sit-in which was organised by several Congress party leaders urging Rahul Gandhi to take back his resignation ended peacefully on Tuesday evening.

The indefinite sit-in which was organised by several Congress party leaders urging Rahul Gandhi to take back his resignation ended peacefully on Tuesday evening. Not more than 300 people gathered outside party headquarters when the sit-in started earlier in the day. The number reduced to odd 150 people by evening. Through the day, not a single senior Congress leader came to express solidarity with junior AICC functionaries. The indefinite sit-in has been staged to create pressure on Rahul Gandhi to rescind his decision to resign from the post of Congress president after the party's abysmal performance in the 17th Lok Sabha elections. Junior AICC functionaries who have come for sit-in have refrained from giving speeches. Not a single senior leader has come in for the event. Most of the leaders at the sit-in were appointed by Rahul Gandhi in the Congress during his tenure. WION spoke to Virendra Vashisht, one of the AICC secretaries who put in his papers. "We want Rahul Gandhi to take back his decision. We will wait but the sit-in is not directed against any senior leader," Vashisht said. The sit-in internally has drawn ire of the senior leaders who feel that it is unnecessarily creating more embarrassment for the already beleaguered party. Many junior leaders wanted to erect a podium and give speeches but at the last minute, they decided against it. The tag line for the protest is "Satyagraha mein Agrha." The event is going to last through the day. There is also no clarity on the matter whether junior leaders with such small numbers will be able to carry it for a few days. The official rung of the party is upset and deeply divided over this protest.

Congress sit-in over Rahul Gandhi's resignation ends

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi's radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" will resume today almost a month after the PM returned to power.</p>

<p>This will be the first 'Mann ki Baat'&nbsp;programme in Modi's second consecutive term as the Prime Minister.</p>

<p>Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to listen to the radio programme with other party workers at the Kakrola stadium in Dwarka.</p>

<p>Enthused by stunning performance in the Lok Sabha elections, the BJP is planning to take Prime Minister Narendra Modi's monthly radio programme to more people this time by making special arrangements and utilising all possible means.</p>

<p>In order to ensure that more and more people listen to Modi's radio programme, the party cadres at all levels have been directed to ensure better facilities such as better radio sets to attract more people to the programme.</p>

<p>The PM had last spoken on the radio programme in the episode which aired in February this year.</p>

<p>He had expressed confidence of the BJP-led NDA's victory in the Lok Sabha elections and said the programme will return after the polls.</p>

<p>On June 15, Modi said the programme was going to resume on June 30 at 11:00 am in a tweet.</p>

<p>"30th June, Sunday at 11:00 AM...We will meet once again, thanks to the radio, share joy, positivity and celebrate the collective strength of 130 crore Indians. I am sure you have lots to say for #MannKiBaat. Share it on the NaMo App Open Forum," Modi tweeted.</p>

<p>Many BJP leaders have also planned to listen to 'Mann Ki Baat'&nbsp;programme by sitting with the people and party workers.</p>

<p>The programme broadcasts on the last Sunday of the month and suggestions, stories and ideas are invited from people for it.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi's radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" will resume today almost a month after the PM returned to power. This will be the first 'Mann ki Baat' programme in Modi's second consecutive term as the Prime Minister.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" will resume today almost a month after the PM returned to power. This will be the first 'Mann ki Baat' programme in Modi's second consecutive term as the Prime Minister. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to listen to the radio programme with other party workers at the Kakrola stadium in Dwarka. Enthused by stunning performance in the Lok Sabha elections, the BJP is planning to take Prime Minister Narendra Modi's monthly radio programme to more people this time by making special arrangements and utilising all possible means. In order to ensure that more and more people listen to Modi's radio programme, the party cadres at all levels have been directed to ensure better facilities such as better radio sets to attract more people to the programme. The PM had last spoken on the radio programme in the episode which aired in February this year. He had expressed confidence of the BJP-led NDA's victory in the Lok Sabha elections and said the programme will return after the polls. On June 15, Modi said the programme was going to resume on June 30 at 11:00 am in a tweet. "30th June, Sunday at 11:00 AM...We will meet once again, thanks to the radio, share joy, positivity and celebrate the collective strength of 130 crore Indians. I am sure you have lots to say for #MannKiBaat. Share it on the NaMo App Open Forum," Modi tweeted. Many BJP leaders have also planned to listen to 'Mann Ki Baat' programme by sitting with the people and party workers. The programme broadcasts on the last Sunday of the month and suggestions, stories and ideas are invited from people for it.

First 'Mann ki Baat' after Modi's return to power to air today

<p>A day before the budget session, an all-party meeting convened by the government was held Sunday in which the opposition demanded that issues such as farm distress, unemployment and drought should be debated upon in Parliament.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the meeting, attended by representatives of all parties, including Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad, National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah and TMC leader Derek O'Brien.</p>

<p>The Prime Minister has called a meeting of chiefs of all parties having representatives in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha on June 19 to discuss "one nation, one election" issue, celebration of 75 years of India's Independence in 2022, 150 years of Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary this year and issues of "aspirational districts", Parliamentary Affairs Minister Prahlad Joshi said after the meeting.</p>

<p>He said the PM has also called a meeting of MPs to discuss the issues on June 20.</p>

<p>Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Azad said that all those bills which are in the interest of the people "we are not opposed to them".</p>

<p>There should be a discussion on farmers distress, unemployment and drought, he said.</p>

<p>He also called for early conduct of Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, currently under President's rule, asserting that if Lok Sabha polls can be held then why not state polls.</p>

<p>It appears that the Centre wants to run the state through the Governor's administration, he alleged.</p>

<p>Congress's Adhir Ranjan Choudhary and K Suresh were also present at the meeting.</p>

<p>TMC's O'Brien demanded that the Women's Reservation Bill, which seeks to reserve one-third of all seats for women in Lok Sabha and state Assemblies, be brought immediately in the session.</p>

<p>The first session of the newly-constituted 17th Lok Sabha will be held from June 17 to July 26.</p>


A day before the budget session, an all-party meeting convened by the government was held Sunday in which the opposition demanded that issues such as farm distress, unemployment and drought should be debated upon in Parliament.

A day before the budget session, an all-party meeting convened by the government was held Sunday in which the opposition demanded that issues such as farm distress, unemployment and drought should be debated upon in Parliament. Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the meeting, attended by representatives of all parties, including Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad, National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah and TMC leader Derek O'Brien. The Prime Minister has called a meeting of chiefs of all parties having representatives in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha on June 19 to discuss "one nation, one election" issue, celebration of 75 years of India's Independence in 2022, 150 years of Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary this year and issues of "aspirational districts", Parliamentary Affairs Minister Prahlad Joshi said after the meeting. He said the PM has also called a meeting of MPs to discuss the issues on June 20. Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Azad said that all those bills which are in the interest of the people "we are not opposed to them". There should be a discussion on farmers distress, unemployment and drought, he said. He also called for early conduct of Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, currently under President's rule, asserting that if Lok Sabha polls can be held then why not state polls. It appears that the Centre wants to run the state through the Governor's administration, he alleged. Congress's Adhir Ranjan Choudhary and K Suresh were also present at the meeting. TMC's O'Brien demanded that the Women's Reservation Bill, which seeks to reserve one-third of all seats for women in Lok Sabha and state Assemblies, be brought immediately in the session. The first session of the newly-constituted 17th Lok Sabha will be held from June 17 to July 26.

Ahead of budget session, PM Modi chairs all-party meet; opposition demands debate on unemployment, farm distress

<p>Tamil Nadu’s ruling party the AIADMK passed five resolutions on Wednesday to thank voters, alliance partners and&nbsp;congratulate the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for their win in the recently held Lok Sabha elections.</p>

<p>The party also urged workers to work for the upcoming local body polls on the vision of former party supremos MG Ramachandran and Jayalalithaa at its first district secretaries meeting post the Lok Sabha poll rout and amid calls from certain quarters for a single charismatic leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This meeting gained significance as there had been demands from certain quarters last week, for establishing a single charismatic leader for the party, after which AIADMK leadership had written to the cadre asking them to "join hands to save the party and remain disciplined and follow the political lessons of MG Ramachandran and Jayalalithaa".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fueling the speculation of deep divisions within the party leadership, there were posters in the vicinity of the party office in Avvai Shanmugam Salai, which urged Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami to take over as party General Secretary, terming it as the expectation of the party cadre.</p>

<p>Speaking to reporters after the nearly hour-and-a-hour-long meeting, Fisheries Minister D Jayakumar dismissed the posters as gossip and maintained that status quo would prevail, he also said that the dual leadership issue wasn’t even discussed and termed it a routine meeting. When questioned about the decision to tie up with the BJP, he responded saying, it wasn’t an issue at all.</p>

<p>Senior AIADMK leader Vaithilingam said that there is no need to even speak about elections for the post of General Secretary as the existing set up of coordinator and co-coordinator are bound to continue.</p>

<p>The party has also instructed its spokespersons to not speak regarding the party's stance without seeking approval from the high command. Until further notice, they have also been instructed to not take part in any television debates, media interactions or post on social media regarding the party's future course of action.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Other functionaries have been instructed to not post their personal views or express them on the mainstream media or social media platforms and failure in following the instructions will lead to disciplinary action against them.</p>

<p>Speaking to WION about the developments in the party, senior journalist and political analyst Dr Sumanth C Raman stuck to his earlier analysis and said, "today’s meeting did not appear to be a rocky one and that there is likely to be no immediate change in the mode of leadership in the coming months."<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Tamil Nadu’s ruling party the AIADMK passed five resolutions on Wednesday to thank voters, alliance partners and congratulate the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for their win in the recently held Lok Sabha elections.

Tamil Nadu’s ruling party the AIADMK passed five resolutions on Wednesday to thank voters, alliance partners and congratulate the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for their win in the recently held Lok Sabha elections. The party also urged workers to work for the upcoming local body polls on the vision of former party supremos MG Ramachandran and Jayalalithaa at its first district secretaries meeting post the Lok Sabha poll rout and amid calls from certain quarters for a single charismatic leader. This meeting gained significance as there had been demands from certain quarters last week, for establishing a single charismatic leader for the party, after which AIADMK leadership had written to the cadre asking them to "join hands to save the party and remain disciplined and follow the political lessons of MG Ramachandran and Jayalalithaa". Fueling the speculation of deep divisions within the party leadership, there were posters in the vicinity of the party office in Avvai Shanmugam Salai, which urged Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami to take over as party General Secretary, terming it as the expectation of the party cadre. Speaking to reporters after the nearly hour-and-a-hour-long meeting, Fisheries Minister D Jayakumar dismissed the posters as gossip and maintained that status quo would prevail, he also said that the dual leadership issue wasn’t even discussed and termed it a routine meeting. When questioned about the decision to tie up with the BJP, he responded saying, it wasn’t an issue at all. Senior AIADMK leader Vaithilingam said that there is no need to even speak about elections for the post of General Secretary as the existing set up of coordinator and co-coordinator are bound to continue. The party has also instructed its spokespersons to not speak regarding the party's stance without seeking approval from the high command. Until further notice, they have also been instructed to not take part in any television debates, media interactions or post on social media regarding the party's future course of action. Other functionaries have been instructed to not post their personal views or express them on the mainstream media or social media platforms and failure in following the instructions will lead to disciplinary action against them. Speaking to WION about the developments in the party, senior journalist and political analyst Dr Sumanth C Raman stuck to his earlier analysis and said, "today’s meeting did not appear to be a rocky one and that there is likely to be no immediate change in the mode of leadership in the coming months."

AIADMK passes 5 resolutions at crucial meeting; no discussion on single leader demand 

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