Predicting that no single party will get a majority in Election 2019, Congress leader<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-2019-priyankas-roadshows-rahuls-rallies-to-heat-up-campaigning-in-delhi-215439&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwju2q7u14viAhVHgI8KHYfPB904ChAWMAR6BAgSEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw0PSfORO0ToOzb3spmgcxqI"> Jyotiraditya Scindia</a> says his party will forge a strong alliance of like-minded entities to create a "UPA plus plus" government at the Centre and end five years of "injustice".

The days of coalition governments are here to stay, the Congress general secretary, who is seeking a fresh mandate from the electorate of Madhya Pradesh's Guna-Shivpuri seat for a fifth term, said in an interview.&nbsp;

Asked about the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/robert-mueller-should-not-testify-before-us-congress-trump-216223&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwja3Zr514viAhWMLI8KHQ3ADGQQFjABegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw38bQ8rklnW815WQBl03O7R">Congress' </a>chances after five rounds of the seven-phase elections, Scindia said he never quantifies the number of seats but can see that the mood of the people is against the present BJP dispensation.

"My assessment is the Congress party, the UPA government will form the government at the Centre and I am very confident of our performance as a coalition," he said.&nbsp; 
"I think the people of India are waiting for the moment to respond to the injustice that has been meted out to them by the Narendra Modi government over the last five years," Scindia said during his election campaign in the region.

It goes without saying that no single party, be it the BJP or the Congress or any other party, is going to get an absolute majority, he said. "It will be a coalition government at the Centre as it is now or has been for the past 25-30 years in the country," the 48-year-old said.&nbsp;"That being said, I firmly believe the UPA will be able to stitch together a very strong coalition government," he added.&nbsp;

Asserting that he is not an astrologer, he said he predicted that the Congress and its allies will put together a "very strong performance". "We look forward to putting together a strong coalition government with like-minded parties which will be the UPA or UPA plus plus," he said.&nbsp;The United Progressive Alliance, formed after the 2004 polls and led by the Congress, ruled the country for 10 years with Manmohan Singh as the prime minister and Sonia Gandhi as its chairperson.&nbsp;

BJP'S NATIONALISM CAMPAIGN

The son of the late Congress stalwart Madhavrao Scindia said the Bharatiya Janata Party was harping on subjects related to nationalism as it had nothing to say on development issues.

"That's very understandable. Because we have always come on the plank of economic growth, development and progress. We have come on the plank of alleviation of poverty. "The BJP has nothing to talk about in its last five years of governance. The last time they were in government, they talked about India Shining. And India was shining only for the BJP but not for the rest of the country," he said.

This time, Scindia added, they came up with the slogan 'ache din' which applied only to a sub-section of a limited coterie of the BJP.&nbsp;"If you ask the common worker of the BJP or even its MPs, not even their 'ache din' have arrived," the former Union minister said. He recalled the mathematical concept of LCM (least common multiple) to say, "The LCM for the BJP is Hindutva and phoney rashtravad (nationalism)," he said.

NYAY&nbsp;

The Congress leader, who holds sway in the Gwalior-Chambal belt of Madhya Pradesh, said he didn't agree that the party's minimum income scheme (NYAY) promise to provide Rs 72,000 per annum to about five crore poor households has not clicked with the masses.

"The judgement will come on (counting day) May 23. So, let's wait. I am very confident the people of India have understood the concept of NYAY. It is not a very difficult concept," he said.

RAHUL GANDHI AS PM&nbsp;

An important member of<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/rahul-gandhis-act-of-trashing-ordinance-was-height-of-arrogance-sushma-swaraj-216965&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjMm_2M2IviAhXMQo8KHYuzDtIQFjAHegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3-opH-JPQXb5gf2AY2GWpl"> Rahul Gandhi's</a> core committee, Scindia said the Congress president is the obvious PM choice for them but a final decision will be taken by the UPA's constituents. "We are not like the BJP which believes one man, one way or the highway. We believe in working together and taking everyone along," he said. 
"The Congress party is one constituent of the UPA and as far as Congress party is concerned, our voice is very clear that it should be Rahul Gandhi but it will be a collective decision," he said.

Why are these elections important for the Congress?

"It is because of two reasons. One is that we want to save the country from this dictatorial and authoritarian rule that is smashing our Constitution and two, to be able to give a vision for India, for the farmers, for our youth in terms of employment to take our country forward.

"The Congress took the country forward in 10 years of the UPA by delivering a 7.8 per cent compounded annual growth rate of over a decade which is a stupendous achievement that lifted about 25 million people out of poverty. This government has just taken us 20 years back," he said.

So, it's a twin purpose -- it is to salvage our democracy and Constitution and freedom of liberty and rights and to take the country forward, he added.

PM'S COMMENTS ON RAJIV GANDHI&nbsp;

Modi's recent comment on the late prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, calling him "corrupt no 1", was distasteful and sad, Scindia said.&nbsp;"It is very hurtful to see that the person occupying the highest chair of this country talking about another person who occupied that same very chair and who is no longer in this world and cast slurs on that person. It does not behove someone who occupies that chair and sad to see that this is the level of politics that Mr Modi has come down to," he said.&nbsp;

Predicting that no single party will get a majority in Election 2019, Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia says his party will forge a strong alliance of like-minded entities to create a "UPA plus plus" government at the Centre and end five years of "injustice".

Predicting that no single party will get a majority in Election 2019, Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia says his party will forge a strong alliance of like-minded entities to create a "UPA plus plus" government at the Centre and end five years of "injustice". The days of coalition governments are here to stay, the Congress general secretary, who is seeking a fresh mandate from the electorate of Madhya Pradesh's Guna-Shivpuri seat for a fifth term, said in an interview. Asked about the Congress' chances after five rounds of the seven-phase elections, Scindia said he never quantifies the number of seats but can see that the mood of the people is against the present BJP dispensation. "My assessment is the Congress party, the UPA government will form the government at the Centre and I am very confident of our performance as a coalition," he said. "I think the people of India are waiting for the moment to respond to the injustice that has been meted out to them by the Narendra Modi government over the last five years," Scindia said during his election campaign in the region. It goes without saying that no single party, be it the BJP or the Congress or any other party, is going to get an absolute majority, he said. "It will be a coalition government at the Centre as it is now or has been for the past 25-30 years in the country," the 48-year-old said. "That being said, I firmly believe the UPA will be able to stitch together a very strong coalition government," he added. Asserting that he is not an astrologer, he said he predicted that the Congress and its allies will put together a "very strong performance". "We look forward to putting together a strong coalition government with like-minded parties which will be the UPA or UPA plus plus," he said. The United Progressive Alliance, formed after the 2004 polls and led by the Congress, ruled the country for 10 years with Manmohan Singh as the prime minister and Sonia Gandhi as its chairperson. BJP'S NATIONALISM CAMPAIGN The son of the late Congress stalwart Madhavrao Scindia said the Bharatiya Janata Party was harping on subjects related to nationalism as it had nothing to say on development issues. "That's very understandable. Because we have always come on the plank of economic growth, development and progress. We have come on the plank of alleviation of poverty. "The BJP has nothing to talk about in its last five years of governance. The last time they were in government, they talked about India Shining. And India was shining only for the BJP but not for the rest of the country," he said. This time, Scindia added, they came up with the slogan 'ache din' which applied only to a sub-section of a limited coterie of the BJP. "If you ask the common worker of the BJP or even its MPs, not even their 'ache din' have arrived," the former Union minister said. He recalled the mathematical concept of LCM (least common multiple) to say, "The LCM for the BJP is Hindutva and phoney rashtravad (nationalism)," he said. NYAY The Congress leader, who holds sway in the Gwalior-Chambal belt of Madhya Pradesh, said he didn't agree that the party's minimum income scheme (NYAY) promise to provide Rs 72,000 per annum to about five crore poor households has not clicked with the masses. "The judgement will come on (counting day) May 23. So, let's wait. I am very confident the people of India have understood the concept of NYAY. It is not a very difficult concept," he said. RAHUL GANDHI AS PM An important member of Rahul Gandhi's core committee, Scindia said the Congress president is the obvious PM choice for them but a final decision will be taken by the UPA's constituents. "We are not like the BJP which believes one man, one way or the highway. We believe in working together and taking everyone along," he said. "The Congress party is one constituent of the UPA and as far as Congress party is concerned, our voice is very clear that it should be Rahul Gandhi but it will be a collective decision," he said. Why are these elections important for the Congress? "It is because of two reasons. One is that we want to save the country from this dictatorial and authoritarian rule that is smashing our Constitution and two, to be able to give a vision for India, for the farmers, for our youth in terms of employment to take our country forward. "The Congress took the country forward in 10 years of the UPA by delivering a 7.8 per cent compounded annual growth rate of over a decade which is a stupendous achievement that lifted about 25 million people out of poverty. This government has just taken us 20 years back," he said. So, it's a twin purpose -- it is to salvage our democracy and Constitution and freedom of liberty and rights and to take the country forward, he added. PM'S COMMENTS ON RAJIV GANDHI Modi's recent comment on the late prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, calling him "corrupt no 1", was distasteful and sad, Scindia said. "It is very hurtful to see that the person occupying the highest chair of this country talking about another person who occupied that same very chair and who is no longer in this world and cast slurs on that person. It does not behove someone who occupies that chair and sad to see that this is the level of politics that Mr Modi has come down to," he said.

No party will get majority, Congress will forge alliance for 'UPA plus plus' govt: Jyotiraditya Scindia

Congress leader and former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Digvijay Singh on Tuesday performed a 'havan'&nbsp;in the presence of Namdas Tyagi also known as Computer Baba and other sadhus at a Maha Yagna organised in Bhopal on Tuesday.

Tyagi said that the Yagna was a form of `Hath Yoga` to ensure Digvijaya`s win in the Lok Sabha elections and added that BJP had "fooled" the community of seers by using the Ram Mandir issue as a political tool.

"BJP has fooled not just the public but the community of seers as well. All sadhus who are with me unanimously say that without a Ram Mandir there will not be a Modi government again, we are holding the Yagna to ensure Digvijay Singh`s win," Tyagi said here.

Namdas Tyagi or `Computer Baba` was appointed the Minister of State (MoS) position under the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government.

However, he had openly rebelled against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) after being denied the party ticket for the state assembly elections held in Madhya Pradesh.

At the `pooja` Digvijaya is seen dressed in white kurta pyjama seated on the ground while others surround him in a semi circle.

Digvijay Singh will be up against BJP`s MP candidate and firebrand leader Sadhvi Pragya in the Lok Sabha elections.

Bhopal is going to polls in the sixth phase of parliamentary elections on May 12.

The counting of votes will begin on May 23. 
&nbsp;

Congress leader and former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Digvijay Singh on Tuesday performed a 'havan' in the presence of Namdas Tyagi also known as Computer Baba and other sadhus at a Maha Yagna organised in Bhopal on Tuesday.

Congress leader and former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Digvijay Singh on Tuesday performed a 'havan' in the presence of Namdas Tyagi also known as Computer Baba and other sadhus at a Maha Yagna organised in Bhopal on Tuesday. Tyagi said that the Yagna was a form of `Hath Yoga` to ensure Digvijaya`s win in the Lok Sabha elections and added that BJP had "fooled" the community of seers by using the Ram Mandir issue as a political tool. "BJP has fooled not just the public but the community of seers as well. All sadhus who are with me unanimously say that without a Ram Mandir there will not be a Modi government again, we are holding the Yagna to ensure Digvijay Singh`s win," Tyagi said here. Namdas Tyagi or `Computer Baba` was appointed the Minister of State (MoS) position under the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government. However, he had openly rebelled against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) after being denied the party ticket for the state assembly elections held in Madhya Pradesh. At the `pooja` Digvijaya is seen dressed in white kurta pyjama seated on the ground while others surround him in a semi circle. Digvijay Singh will be up against BJP`s MP candidate and firebrand leader Sadhvi Pragya in the Lok Sabha elections. Bhopal is going to polls in the sixth phase of parliamentary elections on May 12. The counting of votes will begin on May 23.

Digvijaya Singh performs yagna with Computer Baba to ensure win in Lok Sabha elections

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-lok-sabha-elections-polling-underway-in-seven-states-in-fifth-phase-216212">Polling was underway</a> on Monday in seven Lok Sabha seats of Madhya Pradesh with minor EVM glitches being reported at some booths, an official said.

Long queues were seen at some booths after the polling began at 7 am, he said.

This is the second phase of polling in Madhya Pradesh, the first phase having been held on April 29.

"Polling is going on peacefully across the seven constituencies. Minor issues related to EVMs were reported at some places but they were sorted out," state's chief electoral officer V L Kantha Rao told PTI.

Total 15,240 polling booths have been set up across the seven constituencies - Tikamgarh, Damoh, Khajuraho, Satna, Rewa, Hoshangabad and Betul - where 1.19 crore people, including 18,822 service voters, are eligible to exercise their franchise.

All these seats located in the state's Bundelkhand region are currently held by the BJP.

Union minister Virendra Singh Khatik and BJP MP Prahlad Patel are among the 110 candidates in the fray.

Of the 110 nominees, 14 are in the fray in Tikamgarh, 15 in Damoh, 17 in Khajuraho, 21 in Satna, 23 in Rewa, 11 in Hoshangabad and nine in Betul.

Lok Sabha elections for 29 seats in the state are being held in four phases. Polling for six seats was held in the first phase on April 29, while eight seats each will go to polls on May 12 and 19.

In 2014, the BJP won 27 seats in the state while the Congress bagged two seats.

The Congress later increased its tally to three after wresting Ratlam seat from the BJP in a bypoll.&nbsp;

Polling was underway on Monday in seven Lok Sabha seats of Madhya Pradesh with minor EVM glitches being reported at some booths, an official said. Long queues were seen at some booths after the polling began at 7 am, he said.

Polling was underway on Monday in seven Lok Sabha seats of Madhya Pradesh with minor EVM glitches being reported at some booths, an official said. Long queues were seen at some booths after the polling began at 7 am, he said. This is the second phase of polling in Madhya Pradesh, the first phase having been held on April 29. "Polling is going on peacefully across the seven constituencies. Minor issues related to EVMs were reported at some places but they were sorted out," state's chief electoral officer V L Kantha Rao told PTI. Total 15,240 polling booths have been set up across the seven constituencies - Tikamgarh, Damoh, Khajuraho, Satna, Rewa, Hoshangabad and Betul - where 1.19 crore people, including 18,822 service voters, are eligible to exercise their franchise. All these seats located in the state's Bundelkhand region are currently held by the BJP. Union minister Virendra Singh Khatik and BJP MP Prahlad Patel are among the 110 candidates in the fray. Of the 110 nominees, 14 are in the fray in Tikamgarh, 15 in Damoh, 17 in Khajuraho, 21 in Satna, 23 in Rewa, 11 in Hoshangabad and nine in Betul. Lok Sabha elections for 29 seats in the state are being held in four phases. Polling for six seats was held in the first phase on April 29, while eight seats each will go to polls on May 12 and 19. In 2014, the BJP won 27 seats in the state while the Congress bagged two seats. The Congress later increased its tally to three after wresting Ratlam seat from the BJP in a bypoll.

Phase five Lok Sabha polls: EVM issues reported in Madhya Pradesh

Bhartiya Janata Party President Amit Shah campaigns in Madhya Pradesh. Amit Shah says 'Modi's diplomacy led to India's win at UN'. Watch Video to know more.

IEW: BJP President Amit Shah campaigns in Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh has recorded the biggest increase in voter turnout so far. In the six seats that have gone to the polls, the state has registered an increase of 10.04 percentage point in voter turnout in 2019 as compared with 2014

IEW: Two way race in Madhya Pradesh

An Independent candidate in Madhya Pradesh's Balaghat Lok Sabha seat alleged that his vehicle was set afire by Naxals on Monday, officials said.

A case was registered by police in this connection and the state election office was also probing the incident, they said.

Kishore Samrite, who is contesting as an Independent candidate, claimed while talking to reporters in Balaghat that the incident took place when he stopped his jeep at Posra village in Lanjhi area of the district in the wee hours of Monday to offer prayers at a temple.

While he was at the temple, around 20 to 25 "armed Naxals" attacked his four-wheeler and set it ablaze before fleeing, he alleged.

State Chief Electoral Officer V L Kantha Rao said, "We have already provided security to Samrite. We are verifying the incident and probing it." 
Asked about Samrite's claim that the attackers were Naxals, Rao said they were trying to verify it.

A case was registered by police against unidentified persons under relevant provisions, Lanjhi's sub-divisional officer of police Nitesh Bhargava said.&nbsp;

An Independent candidate in Madhya Pradesh's Balaghat Lok Sabha seat alleged that his vehicle was set afire by Naxals on Monday, officials said. A case was registered by police in this connection and the state election office was also probing the incident, they said.

An Independent candidate in Madhya Pradesh's Balaghat Lok Sabha seat alleged that his vehicle was set afire by Naxals on Monday, officials said. A case was registered by police in this connection and the state election office was also probing the incident, they said. Kishore Samrite, who is contesting as an Independent candidate, claimed while talking to reporters in Balaghat that the incident took place when he stopped his jeep at Posra village in Lanjhi area of the district in the wee hours of Monday to offer prayers at a temple. While he was at the temple, around 20 to 25 "armed Naxals" attacked his four-wheeler and set it ablaze before fleeing, he alleged. State Chief Electoral Officer V L Kantha Rao said, "We have already provided security to Samrite. We are verifying the incident and probing it." Asked about Samrite's claim that the attackers were Naxals, Rao said they were trying to verify it. A case was registered by police against unidentified persons under relevant provisions, Lanjhi's sub-divisional officer of police Nitesh Bhargava said.

Madhya Pradesh: Independent candidate alleges attack by Naxals, EC launches probe

Tear my son's clothes if he does not deliver, says Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath as he campaigns for his son Nakul who is fighting his first elections from Chhindwara.

Invoking his 40-year-old association with the region, Nath says he has now entrusted the task to serve the people of Chhindwara to his son so that he can work for Madhya Pradesh.

"I am where I am because of the love and strength you gave me," Nath says.

"Nakul is not here today but he will serve you. I have given him the responsibility. Take him to task and tear his clothes if he does not deliver," the 72-year-old Congress leader told the locals.

He was speaking at an election rally on Saturday in Dhanora village which comes under the Amarwada assembly seat, about 65 kms from Chhindwara district headquarters.

"We will start a new journey and create history," he told the locals.

Nath has been the longest-serving Member of Parliament (MP) from this Lok Sabha constituency as he served for nine terms and he has now vacated the seat for his son.

The chief minister is also contesting bypoll in the Chhindwara assembly constituency as per the legal requirement of being a member of legislative assembly (MLA) for running the state government.

Nath says due to his efforts the district has a "distinct identity" when it comes to development.

He hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying his promises of ensuring Rs 15 lakh in every Indian citizen's bank account, steps against blackmoney and the decision of demonetisation were just "gimmicks and frauds".

"They (Modi and Chouhan) scream we did this, we did that but tell me if they did anything for you?" Nath says, alleging that the two leaders misled the people.

"I want to tell Modiji that while there are no 'acche din' (good days) for the common man, his (Modi's) days are going to end soon," he says.

Modi "harassed" every section of society and under BJP government's watch, farmers in Madhya Pradesh were shot at and their livelihood was hit too, Nath alleged.

Hitting out at the previous BJP government in the state, he charged they "kicked the farmer in the stomach and pointed a gun at his chest".

The chief minister says his government in the state has shown its intent by delivering on the promises made before the 2018 assembly polls.

"As promised, we initiated waiver of loans of the farmers as soon as we took charge in Bhopal and till now I have done so for 22 lakh farmers. Thirty-eight lakh more farmers will be benefitted soon who have a loan of up to Rs 2 lakh," he says.

"We have done the loan waiver in 35-40 per cent cases and I promise it will be done in 100 per cent cases soon," he says.

Nath says the new Congress government in the state has also reduced the cost incurred by poor people to pay electricity bills.

Chhindwara will vote on April 29 along with the single bypoll for the constituency.

In the last general elections, the BJP had won 26 and the Congress secured three seats.

Tear my son's clothes if he does not deliver, says Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath as he campaigns for his son Nakul who is fighting his first elections from Chhindwara.

Tear my son's clothes if he does not deliver, says Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath as he campaigns for his son Nakul who is fighting his first elections from Chhindwara. Invoking his 40-year-old association with the region, Nath says he has now entrusted the task to serve the people of Chhindwara to his son so that he can work for Madhya Pradesh. "I am where I am because of the love and strength you gave me," Nath says. "Nakul is not here today but he will serve you. I have given him the responsibility. Take him to task and tear his clothes if he does not deliver," the 72-year-old Congress leader told the locals. He was speaking at an election rally on Saturday in Dhanora village which comes under the Amarwada assembly seat, about 65 kms from Chhindwara district headquarters. "We will start a new journey and create history," he told the locals. Nath has been the longest-serving Member of Parliament (MP) from this Lok Sabha constituency as he served for nine terms and he has now vacated the seat for his son. The chief minister is also contesting bypoll in the Chhindwara assembly constituency as per the legal requirement of being a member of legislative assembly (MLA) for running the state government. Nath says due to his efforts the district has a "distinct identity" when it comes to development. He hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying his promises of ensuring Rs 15 lakh in every Indian citizen's bank account, steps against blackmoney and the decision of demonetisation were just "gimmicks and frauds". "They (Modi and Chouhan) scream we did this, we did that but tell me if they did anything for you?" Nath says, alleging that the two leaders misled the people. "I want to tell Modiji that while there are no 'acche din' (good days) for the common man, his (Modi's) days are going to end soon," he says. Modi "harassed" every section of society and under BJP government's watch, farmers in Madhya Pradesh were shot at and their livelihood was hit too, Nath alleged. Hitting out at the previous BJP government in the state, he charged they "kicked the farmer in the stomach and pointed a gun at his chest". The chief minister says his government in the state has shown its intent by delivering on the promises made before the 2018 assembly polls. "As promised, we initiated waiver of loans of the farmers as soon as we took charge in Bhopal and till now I have done so for 22 lakh farmers. Thirty-eight lakh more farmers will be benefitted soon who have a loan of up to Rs 2 lakh," he says. "We have done the loan waiver in 35-40 per cent cases and I promise it will be done in 100 per cent cases soon," he says. Nath says the new Congress government in the state has also reduced the cost incurred by poor people to pay electricity bills. Chhindwara will vote on April 29 along with the single bypoll for the constituency. In the last general elections, the BJP had won 26 and the Congress secured three seats.

Tear my son's clothes, take him to task if he does not deliver: Kamal Nath

Bhopal District Election Officer on Sunday issued a notice to BJP Lok Sabha candidate Pragya Singh Thakur and sought explanation within a day for her remark on the demolition of Babri Masjid in Ayodhya.

Earlier in the day, Thakur had said,&nbsp;"I will go to construct the Ram Temple. I have said it yesterday and I am not denying it that I had gone there. I have demolished Babri structure. He is my Ram ji and no one can stop me from making a grand Ram Temple. The nation is Ram, Ram is a nation."

The Babri Masjid, built by Mughal emperor Babur in 1578 in Ayodhya, was on December 6, 1992, pulled down allegedly by a group of Hindu activists, claiming that the mosque was constructed after demolishing a Ram temple that stood there.

On Saturday, the EC had issued a notice to Pragya for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct by her comments on former Mumbai ATS chief late Hemant Karkare.

Thakur had said earlier that Karkare lost his life because she had cursed him.

"I called Hemant Karkare and asked him to let me go if there is no evidence (against me). He (Karkare) said that he will bring evidence but will not leave me. I told him -- You will be ruined," Thakur had said.&nbsp;

Bhopal District Election Officer on Sunday issued a notice to BJP Lok Sabha candidate Pragya Singh Thakur and sought explanation within a day for her remark on the demolition of Babri Masjid in Ayodhya.

Bhopal District Election Officer on Sunday issued a notice to BJP Lok Sabha candidate Pragya Singh Thakur and sought explanation within a day for her remark on the demolition of Babri Masjid in Ayodhya. Earlier in the day, Thakur had said, "I will go to construct the Ram Temple. I have said it yesterday and I am not denying it that I had gone there. I have demolished Babri structure. He is my Ram ji and no one can stop me from making a grand Ram Temple. The nation is Ram, Ram is a nation." The Babri Masjid, built by Mughal emperor Babur in 1578 in Ayodhya, was on December 6, 1992, pulled down allegedly by a group of Hindu activists, claiming that the mosque was constructed after demolishing a Ram temple that stood there. On Saturday, the EC had issued a notice to Pragya for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct by her comments on former Mumbai ATS chief late Hemant Karkare. Thakur had said earlier that Karkare lost his life because she had cursed him. "I called Hemant Karkare and asked him to let me go if there is no evidence (against me). He (Karkare) said that he will bring evidence but will not leave me. I told him -- You will be ruined," Thakur had said.

Bhopal Election Officer issues notice to Pragya Thakur over her Babri Masjid remark

Nearly 50 people were killed as rains coupled with thunderstorm and lightning <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/more-than-30-killed-as-rain-dust-storm-batter-gujarat-rajasthan-and-madhya-pradesh-211101">hit several parts of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra overnight</a>, officials said Wednesday.

The unseasonal rains and storm also caused damage to property and crops in Gujarat and Rajasthan.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Rajasthan witnessed the maximum casualties with 21 people killed in rain-related incidents following by Madhya Pradesh where 15 were killed. While 10 people were killed in Gujarat, three were killed in Maharashtra.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter in the morning to express anguish over the loss of lives in the rains in Gujarat and announce relief.

Soon afterwards Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath hit out at the prime minister, accusing him of being concerned only about his home state Gujarat.

The PMO in a tweet later said, "PM @narendramodi has expressed grief at the loss of lives due to unseasonal rains and storms in MP, Rajasthan, Manipur &amp; various parts of the country".&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

"An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each for the next of kin of those who lost their lives due to unseasonal rain &amp; storms in MP, Rajasthan, Manipur &amp; various parts of the country has been approved from the PM's National Relief Fund. Rs 50,000 each for the injured has also been approved," the PMO said.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh said the government is closely monitoring the situation in rain-hit areas and is ready to provide all possible help to states affected by rains and thunderstorm.

In Jaipur, Rajasthan Relief Secretary Ashutosh A T Pednekar said 21 people died due to unseasonal rains.&nbsp;

"4 deaths were reported in Jhalawar, Udaipur and Jaipur each, two each in Jalore and Bundi and one each in Baran, Rajsamand, Bhilwara, Alwar and Hanumangarh,? he said.

Compensation of Rs. 4 lakh each has been announced to the families of victims.

Another official said crops have suffered damage and the assessment is being done.

Several cattle were also killed in rain-related incidents.

Condoling the deaths, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said in a tweet, "Deeply pained by the loss of lives due to unseasonal rains and storms in various parts of the country including Rajasthan. My thoughts and prayers are with bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured".

Of the total 21 deaths, 7 are in Kota division. Heavy dust storm accompanied by moderate to heavy rains, thundershowers also lashed parts of Hadouti region (Kota division) on Tuesday causing damage to crops.

Survey of crop damage is underway.&nbsp;

BJP candidate from the constituency Om Birla demanded the state government declare compensation to farmers for crop damage.&nbsp;

Birla also blamed the state government for not issuing an alert and taking measures to prevent crop damage.

The department has predicted dust storm/thunderstorm accompanied by high-velocity winds and lightning at a few places during the next 24 hours.&nbsp;

Officials in Bhopal said unseasonal rain accompanied by thunderstorm and lightning hit various parts of Madhya Pradesh, leaving 15 people dead and injuring some others.

Rains claimed three lives each in Indore, Dhar and Shajapur, two in Ratlam and one each in Alirajpur, Rajgarh, Sehore and Chhindwara districts. 
Nath expressed grief over the deaths and charged that Modi's concerns were limited to his home state Gujarat.

"Modiji, you are the PM of the country and not of Gujarat. In MP also, more than 10 persons were killed because of unseasonal rains, storm and lightning. But you have confined your feelings to Gujarat only. Though your party has no government here people live here also," Nath said in a tweet.

The BJP hit back, accusing Nath of doing politics over the loss caused by rains and storm.

BJP media head and Rajya Sabha MP Anil Baluni said in Delhi that Nath is well aware of the procedure that the state government has to first inform the Centre about the damage in such a natural tragedy to get relief but instead of doing so, he was tweeting and doing politics.&nbsp;

"Instead of informing the Centre, he chose to do politics over the tragedy," Baluni charged.

In Ahmedabad, Gujarat government's director of relief G B Manglpara, told PTI that at least 10 people have died in the rain and dust storm reported from various areas including districts in North Gujarat and Saurashtra region.

Also, a portion of a tent erected for Prime Minister Modi's rally in Himmatnagar town of North Gujarat was also damaged in the dust storm, an official earlier said.&nbsp;

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani announced an aid of Rs 2 lakh each to the kin of the deceased in the western state.

"While the PM has already announced ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh, the Gujarat government will also give Rs 2 lakh to kin of those who lost their lives," Rupani told reporters in Dahod.

"We will also conduct a survey to assess the damage to crops and pay accordingly to affected persons," he added.&nbsp;

Apart from the rain, the storm also resulted in hailstorm in some parts of Rajkot district of Saurashtra and Banaskantha district of north Gujarat.

In Mehsana, farm produce kept in the open in the agriculture produce market committee premises got damaged, an official said.

Besides, officials in Banaskantha said the watermelon crop, mainly grown in and around Deesa, got damaged due to hailstorm and thunderstorm.

In Maharashtra, a 71-year-old woman, a 32-year-old man and a temple priest died when lightning struck them in Nashik district during rains on Tuesday, police said.

Nearly 50 people were killed as rains coupled with thunderstorm and lightning hit several parts of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra overnight, officials said Wednesday.

Nearly 50 people were killed as rains coupled with thunderstorm and lightning hit several parts of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra overnight, officials said Wednesday. The unseasonal rains and storm also caused damage to property and crops in Gujarat and Rajasthan. Rajasthan witnessed the maximum casualties with 21 people killed in rain-related incidents following by Madhya Pradesh where 15 were killed. While 10 people were killed in Gujarat, three were killed in Maharashtra. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter in the morning to express anguish over the loss of lives in the rains in Gujarat and announce relief. Soon afterwards Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath hit out at the prime minister, accusing him of being concerned only about his home state Gujarat. The PMO in a tweet later said, "PM @narendramodi has expressed grief at the loss of lives due to unseasonal rains and storms in MP, Rajasthan, Manipur & various parts of the country". "An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each for the next of kin of those who lost their lives due to unseasonal rain & storms in MP, Rajasthan, Manipur & various parts of the country has been approved from the PM's National Relief Fund. Rs 50,000 each for the injured has also been approved," the PMO said. Home Minister Rajnath Singh said the government is closely monitoring the situation in rain-hit areas and is ready to provide all possible help to states affected by rains and thunderstorm. In Jaipur, Rajasthan Relief Secretary Ashutosh A T Pednekar said 21 people died due to unseasonal rains. "4 deaths were reported in Jhalawar, Udaipur and Jaipur each, two each in Jalore and Bundi and one each in Baran, Rajsamand, Bhilwara, Alwar and Hanumangarh,? he said. Compensation of Rs. 4 lakh each has been announced to the families of victims. Another official said crops have suffered damage and the assessment is being done. Several cattle were also killed in rain-related incidents. Condoling the deaths, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said in a tweet, "Deeply pained by the loss of lives due to unseasonal rains and storms in various parts of the country including Rajasthan. My thoughts and prayers are with bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured". Of the total 21 deaths, 7 are in Kota division. Heavy dust storm accompanied by moderate to heavy rains, thundershowers also lashed parts of Hadouti region (Kota division) on Tuesday causing damage to crops. Survey of crop damage is underway. BJP candidate from the constituency Om Birla demanded the state government declare compensation to farmers for crop damage. Birla also blamed the state government for not issuing an alert and taking measures to prevent crop damage. The department has predicted dust storm/thunderstorm accompanied by high-velocity winds and lightning at a few places during the next 24 hours. Officials in Bhopal said unseasonal rain accompanied by thunderstorm and lightning hit various parts of Madhya Pradesh, leaving 15 people dead and injuring some others. Rains claimed three lives each in Indore, Dhar and Shajapur, two in Ratlam and one each in Alirajpur, Rajgarh, Sehore and Chhindwara districts. Nath expressed grief over the deaths and charged that Modi's concerns were limited to his home state Gujarat. "Modiji, you are the PM of the country and not of Gujarat. In MP also, more than 10 persons were killed because of unseasonal rains, storm and lightning. But you have confined your feelings to Gujarat only. Though your party has no government here people live here also," Nath said in a tweet. The BJP hit back, accusing Nath of doing politics over the loss caused by rains and storm. BJP media head and Rajya Sabha MP Anil Baluni said in Delhi that Nath is well aware of the procedure that the state government has to first inform the Centre about the damage in such a natural tragedy to get relief but instead of doing so, he was tweeting and doing politics. "Instead of informing the Centre, he chose to do politics over the tragedy," Baluni charged. In Ahmedabad, Gujarat government's director of relief G B Manglpara, told PTI that at least 10 people have died in the rain and dust storm reported from various areas including districts in North Gujarat and Saurashtra region. Also, a portion of a tent erected for Prime Minister Modi's rally in Himmatnagar town of North Gujarat was also damaged in the dust storm, an official earlier said. Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani announced an aid of Rs 2 lakh each to the kin of the deceased in the western state. "While the PM has already announced ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh, the Gujarat government will also give Rs 2 lakh to kin of those who lost their lives," Rupani told reporters in Dahod. "We will also conduct a survey to assess the damage to crops and pay accordingly to affected persons," he added. Apart from the rain, the storm also resulted in hailstorm in some parts of Rajkot district of Saurashtra and Banaskantha district of north Gujarat. In Mehsana, farm produce kept in the open in the agriculture produce market committee premises got damaged, an official said. Besides, officials in Banaskantha said the watermelon crop, mainly grown in and around Deesa, got damaged due to hailstorm and thunderstorm. In Maharashtra, a 71-year-old woman, a 32-year-old man and a temple priest died when lightning struck them in Nashik district during rains on Tuesday, police said.

Rains, thunderstorm leave nearly 50 dead in 4 states

The Madhya Pradesh Lokayukta has refused to share details on search operations conducted by the Income Tax department against corrupt public servants of the state government citing an exemption clause under the RTI Act.&nbsp;

RTI activist Ajay Dubey had sought details related to search operations conducted by the Income Tax department from the Lokayukta. He had also sought details of corruption cases registered by it since July 2017 among other information.

In its reply, the Lokayukta said the information sought is in "question-answer" format. Therefore, it cannot be given. It also cited Section 2 (F) of the Right to Information (RTI) Act and said the desired details do not constitute information mentioned in the transparency law.

The information thus cannot be constructed and cannot be given, the Lokayukta said. The section describes "information" as any material in any form, including records, documents, memos, e-mails, opinions, advice, press releases, circulars, orders, logbooks, contracts, reports, papers, samples, models, data material held in any electronic form and information relating to any private body which can be accessed by a public authority under any other law for the time being in force.

To a query on sharing details on information given by the Income Tax department related to the search operations conducted against corrupt government employees, it said the information cannot be made public as its investigating arm - Special Police Establishment (SPE) - was exempt under the transparency law from disclosing such details.

"The Income Tax department shares details of search operations conducted against corrupt government employees with the Lokayukta of the state concerned so that it can also act against them. The Lokayukta has adopted an anti-transparency attitude by blocking access to the information sought," Mr Dubey said.

The Income Tax department recently carried out raids at over 50 locations, including in Delhi and Madhya Pradesh, against close aides of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath on charges of tax evasion and hawala transactions.

Searches have detected widespread and well-organized racket of a collection of unaccounted cash of about Rs. 281 crore through various persons in different walks of life including business, politics and public service, a press release issued by the Income Tax department in Delhi on April 8 had said.

The Madhya Pradesh Lokayukta has refused to share details on search operations conducted by the Income Tax department against corrupt public servants of the state government citing an exemption clause under the RTI Act.

The Madhya Pradesh Lokayukta has refused to share details on search operations conducted by the Income Tax department against corrupt public servants of the state government citing an exemption clause under the RTI Act. RTI activist Ajay Dubey had sought details related to search operations conducted by the Income Tax department from the Lokayukta. He had also sought details of corruption cases registered by it since July 2017 among other information. In its reply, the Lokayukta said the information sought is in "question-answer" format. Therefore, it cannot be given. It also cited Section 2 (F) of the Right to Information (RTI) Act and said the desired details do not constitute information mentioned in the transparency law. The information thus cannot be constructed and cannot be given, the Lokayukta said. The section describes "information" as any material in any form, including records, documents, memos, e-mails, opinions, advice, press releases, circulars, orders, logbooks, contracts, reports, papers, samples, models, data material held in any electronic form and information relating to any private body which can be accessed by a public authority under any other law for the time being in force. To a query on sharing details on information given by the Income Tax department related to the search operations conducted against corrupt government employees, it said the information cannot be made public as its investigating arm - Special Police Establishment (SPE) - was exempt under the transparency law from disclosing such details. "The Income Tax department shares details of search operations conducted against corrupt government employees with the Lokayukta of the state concerned so that it can also act against them. The Lokayukta has adopted an anti-transparency attitude by blocking access to the information sought," Mr Dubey said. The Income Tax department recently carried out raids at over 50 locations, including in Delhi and Madhya Pradesh, against close aides of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath on charges of tax evasion and hawala transactions. Searches have detected widespread and well-organized racket of a collection of unaccounted cash of about Rs. 281 crore through various persons in different walks of life including business, politics and public service, a press release issued by the Income Tax department in Delhi on April 8 had said.

Madhya Pradesh Lokayukta refuses to share details on I-T searches against corrupt public servants

Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath's son Nakul, who Tuesday filed his nomination for the Chhindwara Lok Sabha seat, owns movable and immovable assets worth over Rs 660.01 crore.

The figure, mentioned in his affidavit filed along with the nomination papers, is over five times the assets of his parents, which as per MP CM Nath's affidavit stood at over Rs 124 crore.

Nakul Nath, a businessman-turned-politician, holds movable assets worth over Rs 615.93 crore while that of his wife Priya is over Rs 2.30 crore, as per the affidavit.

The value of his immovable assets is over Rs 41.77 crore while his wife does not own any immovable asset, as per the affidavit.

The affidavit stated that Nakul owned these properties in his own name as well as jointly and also through family-controlled companies and trusts. 
Nakul and Priya Nath don't own any vehicles, the affidavit stated.

He owns 896.669 grams of gold bars, 7.630 kilogrammes silver, 147.58 carat diamond and stone jewellery worth over Rs 78.45 lakh while his wife possesses over 270.322 grams gold, 161.84 carat diamond and stone jewellery valued at over Rs 57.62 lakh, the affidavit said.

As per Income Tax Return filed for the year 2017-18, Nakul Nath has shown annual income of over Rs 2.76 crore while his wife's income stood at over Rs 4.18 crore.

He also has deposits in various bank accounts and shares in firms and institutes including Institute of Management Technology (IMT) in its Dubai and Sharjah campus and Span Air Private Ltd.

The affidavit stated that Nakul and his brother jointly own a total of 7.82 acres of land in Chhindwara district.

The poll debutant also shared his five social media accounts including his website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google+ and Blogger.

Nakul is contesting from Chhindwara constituency, where he is up against the BJP's Natthan Shah, a tribal leader and former MLA.

Nakul has a degree in Business Administration from Bay State College, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. 
&nbsp;

Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath's son Nakul, who Tuesday filed his nomination for the Chhindwara Lok Sabha seat, owns movable and immovable assets worth over Rs 660.

Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath's son Nakul, who Tuesday filed his nomination for the Chhindwara Lok Sabha seat, owns movable and immovable assets worth over Rs 660.01 crore. The figure, mentioned in his affidavit filed along with the nomination papers, is over five times the assets of his parents, which as per MP CM Nath's affidavit stood at over Rs 124 crore. Nakul Nath, a businessman-turned-politician, holds movable assets worth over Rs 615.93 crore while that of his wife Priya is over Rs 2.30 crore, as per the affidavit. The value of his immovable assets is over Rs 41.77 crore while his wife does not own any immovable asset, as per the affidavit. The affidavit stated that Nakul owned these properties in his own name as well as jointly and also through family-controlled companies and trusts. Nakul and Priya Nath don't own any vehicles, the affidavit stated. He owns 896.669 grams of gold bars, 7.630 kilogrammes silver, 147.58 carat diamond and stone jewellery worth over Rs 78.45 lakh while his wife possesses over 270.322 grams gold, 161.84 carat diamond and stone jewellery valued at over Rs 57.62 lakh, the affidavit said. As per Income Tax Return filed for the year 2017-18, Nakul Nath has shown annual income of over Rs 2.76 crore while his wife's income stood at over Rs 4.18 crore. He also has deposits in various bank accounts and shares in firms and institutes including Institute of Management Technology (IMT) in its Dubai and Sharjah campus and Span Air Private Ltd. The affidavit stated that Nakul and his brother jointly own a total of 7.82 acres of land in Chhindwara district. The poll debutant also shared his five social media accounts including his website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google+ and Blogger. Nakul is contesting from Chhindwara constituency, where he is up against the BJP's Natthan Shah, a tribal leader and former MLA. Nakul has a degree in Business Administration from Bay State College, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.

Lok Sabha poll 2019: Madhya Pradesh CM Kamal Nath's son Nakul assets worth over Rs 660 crore

The Madhya Pradesh Congress government led by chief minister Kamal Nath has blatantly tried to pursue vote bank politics by raising reservation for the Other Backward Classes (OBC) from 14 per cent to 27 per cent ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

The move received a major jolt on Tuesday when the Madhya Pradesh high court issued an order staying the Ordinance promulgated by the state Governor earlier this month to almost double the quota for OBCs.

The Madhya Pradesh Ordinance, now under judicial review, was passed on the plea that circumstances existed and since the Legislative Assembly was not in session, it was necessary to take immediate action in this regard.&nbsp;

Tuesday’s High Court order notwithstanding, Chief Minister Kamal Nath is not ready to concede ground. He has responded to queries by media-persons by citing the example of Tamil Nadu and stating that other states too have gone in for reservation exceeding the 50 per cent limit prescribed and mandated by the Supreme Court. &nbsp;

Moving in the same direction as Tamil Nadu, even Maharashtra has chosen to grant 16 per cent reservation in jobs and admissions in academic institutions to the Marathas. The Congress government in Madhya Pradesh joined the bandwagon and soon after assuming office, Kamal Nath also went ahead and announced that OBCs will be given 27 per cent reservation in the state. &nbsp;This announcement, no doubt, was made keeping in view the role to be played by nearly 50 per cent voters belonging to the OBC category in Madya Pradesh.

For immediate gains, political parties scramble for votes. They resort to vote bank politics and take reckless actions. The Madhya Pradesh Ordinance for hiking the quota for OBCs is a case in point. After the High Court order has come as a roadblock for Kamal Nath, he has tried to draw sustenance by pointing to other states. The question arises, in the first place, is it proper for states such as Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra to exceed the 50 per cent cap on the reservation and put the same in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution to avoid judicial review.

When the Supreme Court has fixed a 50 per cent cap, the thumb rule should be straight and without ambiguity. Political parties, both ruling and in the Opposition, should ensure overall reservation for SCs/STs and OBCs does not exceed 50 &nbsp;per cent as laid down by the Supreme Court of India, and anybody applying for a seat or job under the quota shall not be eligible for general merit seat.

The quota system in its present form is causing reverse social discrimination and it leads to more and more forward communities clamouring for Other Backward Classes (OBC) status and governments succumbing due to electoral pressures.

The anti-quota movement which had picked up great momentum in Madhya Pradesh 2016 onwards, riding on the crest of the popular demand that reservation should be on an economic criterion, was a major factor leading to BJP’s defeat in the 2018 Assembly election. Kamal Nath’s move to hike reservation for OBCs has been seen as a move aimed at wooing the OBCs and diluting people’s upsurge on the reservation issue. But even before the Congress party could take stock of what it was ultimately going to gain by moving in this direction, it has been stopped in its path by the high court but not before it stands completely exposed when it comes to vote bank politics.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

The Madhya Pradesh Congress government led by chief minister Kamal Nath has blatantly tried to pursue vote bank politics by raising reservation for the Other Backward Classes (OBC) from 14 per cent to 27 per cent ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

The Madhya Pradesh Congress government led by chief minister Kamal Nath has blatantly tried to pursue vote bank politics by raising reservation for the Other Backward Classes (OBC) from 14 per cent to 27 per cent ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. The move received a major jolt on Tuesday when the Madhya Pradesh high court issued an order staying the Ordinance promulgated by the state Governor earlier this month to almost double the quota for OBCs. The Madhya Pradesh Ordinance, now under judicial review, was passed on the plea that circumstances existed and since the Legislative Assembly was not in session, it was necessary to take immediate action in this regard. Tuesday’s High Court order notwithstanding, Chief Minister Kamal Nath is not ready to concede ground. He has responded to queries by media-persons by citing the example of Tamil Nadu and stating that other states too have gone in for reservation exceeding the 50 per cent limit prescribed and mandated by the Supreme Court. Moving in the same direction as Tamil Nadu, even Maharashtra has chosen to grant 16 per cent reservation in jobs and admissions in academic institutions to the Marathas. The Congress government in Madhya Pradesh joined the bandwagon and soon after assuming office, Kamal Nath also went ahead and announced that OBCs will be given 27 per cent reservation in the state. This announcement, no doubt, was made keeping in view the role to be played by nearly 50 per cent voters belonging to the OBC category in Madya Pradesh. For immediate gains, political parties scramble for votes. They resort to vote bank politics and take reckless actions. The Madhya Pradesh Ordinance for hiking the quota for OBCs is a case in point. After the High Court order has come as a roadblock for Kamal Nath, he has tried to draw sustenance by pointing to other states. The question arises, in the first place, is it proper for states such as Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra to exceed the 50 per cent cap on the reservation and put the same in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution to avoid judicial review. When the Supreme Court has fixed a 50 per cent cap, the thumb rule should be straight and without ambiguity. Political parties, both ruling and in the Opposition, should ensure overall reservation for SCs/STs and OBCs does not exceed 50 per cent as laid down by the Supreme Court of India, and anybody applying for a seat or job under the quota shall not be eligible for general merit seat. The quota system in its present form is causing reverse social discrimination and it leads to more and more forward communities clamouring for Other Backward Classes (OBC) status and governments succumbing due to electoral pressures. The anti-quota movement which had picked up great momentum in Madhya Pradesh 2016 onwards, riding on the crest of the popular demand that reservation should be on an economic criterion, was a major factor leading to BJP’s defeat in the 2018 Assembly election. Kamal Nath’s move to hike reservation for OBCs has been seen as a move aimed at wooing the OBCs and diluting people’s upsurge on the reservation issue. But even before the Congress party could take stock of what it was ultimately going to gain by moving in this direction, it has been stopped in its path by the high court but not before it stands completely exposed when it comes to vote bank politics. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Lok Sabha elections 2019: Congress stands exposed as it plays OBC card in Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh BJP leaders Sunday joined the party's "chowkidar" social media poll campaign, hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi added "chowkidar" to his Twitter handle profile and asked people to take the #MainBhiChowkidar pledge against corruption.

Among the leaders was former MP chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, BJP general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya and state unit chief Rakesh Singh.

"Chowkidar" is a term often used by the PM to describe his role at the Centre as a watchdog against corruption as well as his hands-on style of work.

However, the Congress, which has alleged corruption to the tune of several thousand crore in the Rafale fighter jet purchase deal, has been hitting back with the slogan "chowkidar chor hai" (watchman is a thief).

The ruling BJP has now turned the watchman moniker into Lok Sabha poll campaign ammunition by asking people to use it along with their names on social media platforms.

Several Union ministers and BJP leaders have already made the "chowkidar" addition to their social media profiles.&nbsp;

Madhya Pradesh BJP leaders Sunday joined the party's "chowkidar" social media poll campaign, hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi added "chowkidar" to his Twitter handle profile and asked people to take the #MainBhiChowkidar pledge against corruption.

Madhya Pradesh BJP leaders Sunday joined the party's "chowkidar" social media poll campaign, hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi added "chowkidar" to his Twitter handle profile and asked people to take the #MainBhiChowkidar pledge against corruption. Among the leaders was former MP chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, BJP general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya and state unit chief Rakesh Singh. "Chowkidar" is a term often used by the PM to describe his role at the Centre as a watchdog against corruption as well as his hands-on style of work. However, the Congress, which has alleged corruption to the tune of several thousand crore in the Rafale fighter jet purchase deal, has been hitting back with the slogan "chowkidar chor hai" (watchman is a thief). The ruling BJP has now turned the watchman moniker into Lok Sabha poll campaign ammunition by asking people to use it along with their names on social media platforms. Several Union ministers and BJP leaders have already made the "chowkidar" addition to their social media profiles.

Madhya Pradesh BJP leaders join party's 'chowkidar' social media campaign

Madhya Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel has approved an ordinance to increase reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) from 14 per cent to 27 per cent.

The move is seen as an effort by the Kamal Nath-led Congress government to gain the support of the OBCs ahead of the coming Lok Sabha elections, due from April-May.

It also comes before the model code of conduct for the general elections which is set to be announced soon.

Earlier on March 6, the Chief Minister had announced that his government will increase the reservation quota for OBCs from 14 per cent to 27 per cent in Madhya Pradesh.

The Chief Minister had also assured that 10 per cent reservation for the economically weaker section in the general category will also be implemented in the state.&nbsp;

Madhya Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel has approved an ordinance to increase reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) from 14 per cent to 27 per cent. The move is seen as an effort by the Kamal Nath-led Congress government to gain the support of the OBCs ahead of the coming Lok Sabha elections, due from April-May.

Madhya Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel has approved an ordinance to increase reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) from 14 per cent to 27 per cent. The move is seen as an effort by the Kamal Nath-led Congress government to gain the support of the OBCs ahead of the coming Lok Sabha elections, due from April-May. It also comes before the model code of conduct for the general elections which is set to be announced soon. Earlier on March 6, the Chief Minister had announced that his government will increase the reservation quota for OBCs from 14 per cent to 27 per cent in Madhya Pradesh. The Chief Minister had also assured that 10 per cent reservation for the economically weaker section in the general category will also be implemented in the state.

Madhya Pradesh governor passes ordinance to increase OBC quota

CBI Director Rishi Kumar Shukla has Tuesday convened a review meeting of all branches of the agency, a first after taking over charge earlier this month, officials said.

Shukla, who was appointed as CBI Director on February 2, had taken charge within two days amidst the tussle between Kolkata Police and agency officials probing ponzi scam, which had turned into a political slugfest between the Centre and the state.&nbsp;

The review meeting will also help Shukla acquaint himself with important cases and current developments related to them.

A 1983-batch IPS officer, Shukla, who was the former Director General of Police in Madhya Pradesh, has served in the Intelligence Bureau for a long time but it is his first assignment in the CBI.

The meeting will be attended by all heads of over 70 CBI branches across India with some present in Delhi while some will be attending through video conferencing.&nbsp;

The agency is handling several sensitive cases in which it has faced harsh criticism from courts and political parties including ponzi scam, Srijan scam, Muzzafarpur shelter home girls' abuse case, Bikaner land deal cases, Haryana land scam, illegal mining case, gutka scam, anti-Sterlite protests besides corruption allegations against its former officers among others.&nbsp;

CBI Director Rishi Kumar Shukla has Tuesday convened a review meeting of all branches of the agency, a first after taking over charge earlier this month, officials said.

CBI Director Rishi Kumar Shukla has Tuesday convened a review meeting of all branches of the agency, a first after taking over charge earlier this month, officials said. Shukla, who was appointed as CBI Director on February 2, had taken charge within two days amidst the tussle between Kolkata Police and agency officials probing ponzi scam, which had turned into a political slugfest between the Centre and the state. The review meeting will also help Shukla acquaint himself with important cases and current developments related to them. A 1983-batch IPS officer, Shukla, who was the former Director General of Police in Madhya Pradesh, has served in the Intelligence Bureau for a long time but it is his first assignment in the CBI. The meeting will be attended by all heads of over 70 CBI branches across India with some present in Delhi while some will be attending through video conferencing. The agency is handling several sensitive cases in which it has faced harsh criticism from courts and political parties including ponzi scam, Srijan scam, Muzzafarpur shelter home girls' abuse case, Bikaner land deal cases, Haryana land scam, illegal mining case, gutka scam, anti-Sterlite protests besides corruption allegations against its former officers among others.

New CBI director convenes review meeting of all branches of the agency

Don't think 'mama' has become weak, former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who lost power in the recent Assembly elections, asserted Sunday and claimed the BJP will win at least 27 out of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-will-be-second-fight-for-independence-stalin-at-tmcs-opposition-rally-191385">29 Lok Sabha seats in the state</a>.

Congress may have formed a government in the state but it could fall "anytime as it lacks majority", Chouhan, who is also called 'mama' or uncle, said at 'Yuva Vijay Sankalp Maharally' of Delhi BJP's Yuva Morcha.

"Don't think mama has become weak. I promise you that we will win at least 27 seats, as we did in 2014, out of the 29 Lok Sabha seats, in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-136-crore-voters-in-delhi-in-final-electoral-roll-lok-sabha-polls-191350">the coming elections</a>," said the senior BJP leader.

Hitting out at Congress government in Madhya Pradesh, Chouhan claimed BJP could also have formed a "lame" government too but it decided it would do so only with a grand majority.

Chouhan also mocked the gathering of opposition leaders at Saturday's Kolkata rally as "bhanumati ka kunaba" (marriage of convenience), saying there was no unanimity over a common leader among the parties planning the 'mahagathbandhan'.

"It's like a wedding without a groom. On the other hand, we have a leader in the form of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to lead us in the battleground," he said.

The 'Yuva Vijay Sankalp Maharally' was the fifth of a series of big rallies held by the Delhi BJP in the last two months, ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.

However, the event saw a not so whelming attendance. Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari warned from the stage that it would be investigated who were the persons leaving the venue during speeches of the leaders. 
Delhi BJP Yuva Morcha president Sunil Yadav claimed the event was attended by over 20,000 persons.

"People were coming and going but the chairs were full," he said.

The Yuva Morcha had planned to torch 40-feet effigies of Congress president Rahul Gandhi and AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal but the plan was shelved in view of poor air quality in the city, Yadav said.

The rally was attended by many senior BJP leaders including Union minister Vijay Goel who attacked Kejriwal, alleging that his government in Delhi has "destroyed" the city.

Jaibhan Pawaiya, Lok Sabha election co-incharge of Delhi BJP, asked students to sharpen their arguments to face the challenge of being mocked on the slogan of "Achhe Din" by the opponents and counter it with achievements of the Modi government.

Congress may have formed a government in the state but it could fall 'anytime as it lacks majority', Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who is also called 'mama' or uncle, said at a rally of Delhi BJP's Yuva Morcha.

Don't think 'mama' has become weak, former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who lost power in the recent Assembly elections, asserted Sunday and claimed the BJP will win at least 27 out of the 29 Lok Sabha seats in the state. Congress may have formed a government in the state but it could fall "anytime as it lacks majority", Chouhan, who is also called 'mama' or uncle, said at 'Yuva Vijay Sankalp Maharally' of Delhi BJP's Yuva Morcha. "Don't think mama has become weak. I promise you that we will win at least 27 seats, as we did in 2014, out of the 29 Lok Sabha seats, in the coming elections," said the senior BJP leader. Hitting out at Congress government in Madhya Pradesh, Chouhan claimed BJP could also have formed a "lame" government too but it decided it would do so only with a grand majority. Chouhan also mocked the gathering of opposition leaders at Saturday's Kolkata rally as "bhanumati ka kunaba" (marriage of convenience), saying there was no unanimity over a common leader among the parties planning the 'mahagathbandhan'. "It's like a wedding without a groom. On the other hand, we have a leader in the form of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to lead us in the battleground," he said. The 'Yuva Vijay Sankalp Maharally' was the fifth of a series of big rallies held by the Delhi BJP in the last two months, ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. However, the event saw a not so whelming attendance. Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari warned from the stage that it would be investigated who were the persons leaving the venue during speeches of the leaders. Delhi BJP Yuva Morcha president Sunil Yadav claimed the event was attended by over 20,000 persons. "People were coming and going but the chairs were full," he said. The Yuva Morcha had planned to torch 40-feet effigies of Congress president Rahul Gandhi and AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal but the plan was shelved in view of poor air quality in the city, Yadav said. The rally was attended by many senior BJP leaders including Union minister Vijay Goel who attacked Kejriwal, alleging that his government in Delhi has "destroyed" the city. Jaibhan Pawaiya, Lok Sabha election co-incharge of Delhi BJP, asked students to sharpen their arguments to face the challenge of being mocked on the slogan of "Achhe Din" by the opponents and counter it with achievements of the Modi government.

Don't think 'mama' has become weak, will win 27 Lok Sabha seats in MP: Shivraj Chouhan

Dubbing the loan waivers announced by the Congress governments as "political stunts", <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/2019-lok-sabha-polls-will-be-janta-versus-gathbandhan-pm-modi-187752">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Tuesday asserted that a majority of farmers do not benefit from these "misleading" announcements as only a few of them take loans from banks.

In an interview to ANI, he said the solution to the farmers` problems is to empower them and his government is committed to this."These are political stunts," <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/surgical-strikes-decision-was-a-big-risk-but-i-was-more-concerned-about-safety-of-soldiers-pm-modi-187741">Modi asserted</a>.

He recently described the loan waivers announced by the Congress governments in states like Madhya Pradesh as "lollipops".

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Asked why he described the announcements as "lollipops", the Prime Minister said: "To say a lie and mislead, that is what I called lollipop. Like saying that we have waived all farm loans. The truth is that nothing like that has happened... They should not mislead... And particularly a responsible political party should never do it."

Explaining further, he said there is a very small segment of farmers who take loans from banks while a majority of them take loans from money lenders." (So) when governments make such announcements (of loan waivers), those farmers ( who take loans from money lenders) do not become beneficiaries of the waivers. The farmers who are dying are out of the purview of such schemes," Modi elaborated.

Responding to criticism that his government has been insensitive to the farmers` woes, he said, "If loan waiver helps, it should be definitely done.&nbsp; 
But it has been done by earlier governments also. Since (former Deputy Prime Minister) Devi Lal`s time (in 1989-1991), loan waiver was done."

He said the Congress-led UPA government also announced farm loan waiver in 2009 to "win (the Lok Sabha) elections".

"Still, if state governments are doing it (announcing loan waivers), we are not stopping them. We have not stopped any state government. We are committed to addressing farmers` problems and empowering farmers," Modi added.

At the same time, the Prime Minister wanted it to be pondered over as to why farmers fall in debt trap. "What is lacking in our system that a farmer becomes debt-ridden and the governments have to repeat this vicious cycle of elections and loan waivers?.. We should have a situation so that a farmer does not need loan," he said.

"The solution is to empower the farmers. From seed to market, give all facilities to the farmers," Modi said.

He said if the Swaminathan Commission report had been implemented in 2007, there would have been no need for loans."Instead of doing that, they found avenues to win elections," Modi said, targeting the Congress.&nbsp;

Dubbing the loan waivers announced by the Congress governments as "political stunts", Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday asserted that a majority of farmers do not benefit from these "misleading" announcements as only a few of them take loans from banks.

Dubbing the loan waivers announced by the Congress governments as "political stunts", Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday asserted that a majority of farmers do not benefit from these "misleading" announcements as only a few of them take loans from banks. In an interview to ANI, he said the solution to the farmers` problems is to empower them and his government is committed to this."These are political stunts," Modi asserted. He recently described the loan waivers announced by the Congress governments in states like Madhya Pradesh as "lollipops". × Asked why he described the announcements as "lollipops", the Prime Minister said: "To say a lie and mislead, that is what I called lollipop. Like saying that we have waived all farm loans. The truth is that nothing like that has happened... They should not mislead... And particularly a responsible political party should never do it." Explaining further, he said there is a very small segment of farmers who take loans from banks while a majority of them take loans from money lenders." (So) when governments make such announcements (of loan waivers), those farmers ( who take loans from money lenders) do not become beneficiaries of the waivers. The farmers who are dying are out of the purview of such schemes," Modi elaborated. Responding to criticism that his government has been insensitive to the farmers` woes, he said, "If loan waiver helps, it should be definitely done. But it has been done by earlier governments also. Since (former Deputy Prime Minister) Devi Lal`s time (in 1989-1991), loan waiver was done." He said the Congress-led UPA government also announced farm loan waiver in 2009 to "win (the Lok Sabha) elections". "Still, if state governments are doing it (announcing loan waivers), we are not stopping them. We have not stopped any state government. We are committed to addressing farmers` problems and empowering farmers," Modi added. At the same time, the Prime Minister wanted it to be pondered over as to why farmers fall in debt trap. "What is lacking in our system that a farmer becomes debt-ridden and the governments have to repeat this vicious cycle of elections and loan waivers?.. We should have a situation so that a farmer does not need loan," he said. "The solution is to empower the farmers. From seed to market, give all facilities to the farmers," Modi said. He said if the Swaminathan Commission report had been implemented in 2007, there would have been no need for loans."Instead of doing that, they found avenues to win elections," Modi said, targeting the Congress.

Loan waivers do not benefit majority of farmers: PM Modi

Virtually putting the Congress-led governments in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan on notice, the BSP supremo Mayawati Monday said she might have to "reconsider" her party's outside support to them if cases against "innocent" persons framed in Bharat Bandh on April 2 were not withdrawn.

"If the newly-elected governments in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan do not act swiftly and withdraw the cases against the innocent persons framed in Bharat Bandh, the BSP may have to reconsider extending the outside support to the Congress governments," she said in a hard-hitting&nbsp; 
press release here.

Mayawati said the cases against the innocent people framed out of political and caste considerations in Uttar Pradesh and other BJP-ruled states including MP and Rajasthan, which were previously under the BJP.

She said now that MP and Rajasthan are ruled by the Congress, the new governments should immediately withdraw such cases, failing which her party would have to reconsider its decision of extending outside support.

The BSP has two members in Madhya Pradesh's 230-member assembly, while in Rajasthan her party has six seats in the House of 200 MLAs.

The BSP extended outside support to the Congress to form governments in these two states as it had failed to reach majority on its own.

Mayawati also said the governments formed by the Congress in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan should not work like the BJP, which did not fulfil its promises made to the farmers and the unemployed.

"The warning to the Congress is necessary, as now merely making announcements is not enough. People are of the view that in making promises on papers, the Congress and the BJP are two sides of the same coin. Now, it depends on the Congress whether it is able to change this perception," she said in the statement.

She said had the Centre left its "stubborn" behaviour pertaining to triple talaq bill, 2018, and sent it to the joint select committee of Parliament as demanded by the entire Opposition, it would have been better.

The BSP chief said in the past five years, there have been non-fulfilment of promises, and by showing dreams of 'achchey din', demonetisation and GST have been implemented in an immature manner.

Virtually putting the Congress-led governments in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan on notice, the BSP supremo Mayawati Monday said she might have to "reconsider" her party's outside support to them if cases against "innocent" persons framed in Bharat Bandh on April 2 were not withdrawn.

Virtually putting the Congress-led governments in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan on notice, the BSP supremo Mayawati Monday said she might have to "reconsider" her party's outside support to them if cases against "innocent" persons framed in Bharat Bandh on April 2 were not withdrawn. "If the newly-elected governments in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan do not act swiftly and withdraw the cases against the innocent persons framed in Bharat Bandh, the BSP may have to reconsider extending the outside support to the Congress governments," she said in a hard-hitting press release here. Mayawati said the cases against the innocent people framed out of political and caste considerations in Uttar Pradesh and other BJP-ruled states including MP and Rajasthan, which were previously under the BJP. She said now that MP and Rajasthan are ruled by the Congress, the new governments should immediately withdraw such cases, failing which her party would have to reconsider its decision of extending outside support. The BSP has two members in Madhya Pradesh's 230-member assembly, while in Rajasthan her party has six seats in the House of 200 MLAs. The BSP extended outside support to the Congress to form governments in these two states as it had failed to reach majority on its own. Mayawati also said the governments formed by the Congress in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan should not work like the BJP, which did not fulfil its promises made to the farmers and the unemployed. "The warning to the Congress is necessary, as now merely making announcements is not enough. People are of the view that in making promises on papers, the Congress and the BJP are two sides of the same coin. Now, it depends on the Congress whether it is able to change this perception," she said in the statement. She said had the Centre left its "stubborn" behaviour pertaining to triple talaq bill, 2018, and sent it to the joint select committee of Parliament as demanded by the entire Opposition, it would have been better. The BSP chief said in the past five years, there have been non-fulfilment of promises, and by showing dreams of 'achchey din', demonetisation and GST have been implemented in an immature manner.

Might have to reconsider support to Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan govts: Mayawati

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath distributed portfolios to his cabinet Friday evening, keeping Public Relations, Industrial Policy and Investment Promotion Department and Employment Department among others with himself, an official said.

Tribal MLA Bala Bachchan, who was minister in the previous Digvijay Singh-led Congress government, was given Home and Jail, while another senior MLA, Tulsi Silawat, got Health, the Public Relations department official said.

Govind Rajput was allocated Revenue and Transport department, while Tarun Bhanot was given the Finance department.

Nath also kept Public Service Management department and the Technical Education with him, he said.

MLA Prabhuram Choudhary, who belongs to a Scheduled Caste community, was given School Education, he said.

Another Digvijay Singh cabinet member, Vijaylaxmi Sadho, got Culture and Medical Education Department.

Hukum Singh Karada, also a minister in the previous Congress government, got Water Resources Development.

Another former senior minister Dr Govind Singh was given Cooperatives and Parliamentary Affairs.

Sajjan Singh Verma, who was Urban Administration Minister in Digvijay Singh government, has got the Public Works Department in Kamal Nath's cabinet, the official said.

Arif Aqueel, the lone Muslim minister, got Minorities and Other Backward Class Welfare, besides Bhopal Gas Relief and Rehabilitation.

Jaivardhan Singh, Digvijay Singh's son, was given Urban Administration Department.

Jaivardhan, 32, is the youngest minister in the cabinet.

Sachin Yadav, 36, younger brother of former state Congress chief and ex-Union minister Arun Yadav, was given Agriculture and Food Processing Department.&nbsp;

Woman minister Imarati Devi was given Women and Child Department.

Pradeep Jaiswal, lone independent MLA in the cabinet, was given Mining, he said.

Umang Singhar was given Forest Department, while Jitu Patwari was allocated Sports and Youth Affairs besides Higher Education Department.

Brijendra Singh Rathore got Commercial Tax, Lakhan Singh Yadav Animal Husbandry, Omkar Markam Scheduled Tribes Welfare, Sukhdeo Panse Public Health Engineering, Harsh Yadav New and Renewable Energy and Cottage and Village Industries, Kamleshwar Patel Panchayat and Rural Development, Lakhan Ghanghoriya Social Justice and SC Welfare.

P C Sharma was given Law and Legislative Affairs, Surendra Singh Baghel Narmada Valley Development and Tourism Department, Pradyumn Singh Tomar Food and Civil Supplies, Mahendra Singh Sisodiya Labour Department and Priyavrat Singh Energy Department, the official said.

Nath, who took oath as the 18th chief minister of Madhya Pradesh on December 17, had expanded his cabinet on December 25 by inducting 28 ministers.&nbsp;

The Congress returned to power in the state after a hiatus of 15 years by ousting the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Though the Congress, with 114 seats, depends on the support of the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Samajwadi Party, which have won two seats and one, respectively, no MLA from these two smaller parties has got a berth in the cabinet.

A five-day session of the newly-elected Assembly is slated to begin from January 7.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath distributed portfolios to his cabinet Friday evening, keeping Public Relations, Industrial Policy and Investment Promotion Department and Employment Department among others with himself, an official said.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath distributed portfolios to his cabinet Friday evening, keeping Public Relations, Industrial Policy and Investment Promotion Department and Employment Department among others with himself, an official said. Tribal MLA Bala Bachchan, who was minister in the previous Digvijay Singh-led Congress government, was given Home and Jail, while another senior MLA, Tulsi Silawat, got Health, the Public Relations department official said. Govind Rajput was allocated Revenue and Transport department, while Tarun Bhanot was given the Finance department. Nath also kept Public Service Management department and the Technical Education with him, he said. MLA Prabhuram Choudhary, who belongs to a Scheduled Caste community, was given School Education, he said. Another Digvijay Singh cabinet member, Vijaylaxmi Sadho, got Culture and Medical Education Department. Hukum Singh Karada, also a minister in the previous Congress government, got Water Resources Development. Another former senior minister Dr Govind Singh was given Cooperatives and Parliamentary Affairs. Sajjan Singh Verma, who was Urban Administration Minister in Digvijay Singh government, has got the Public Works Department in Kamal Nath's cabinet, the official said. Arif Aqueel, the lone Muslim minister, got Minorities and Other Backward Class Welfare, besides Bhopal Gas Relief and Rehabilitation. Jaivardhan Singh, Digvijay Singh's son, was given Urban Administration Department. Jaivardhan, 32, is the youngest minister in the cabinet. Sachin Yadav, 36, younger brother of former state Congress chief and ex-Union minister Arun Yadav, was given Agriculture and Food Processing Department. Woman minister Imarati Devi was given Women and Child Department. Pradeep Jaiswal, lone independent MLA in the cabinet, was given Mining, he said. Umang Singhar was given Forest Department, while Jitu Patwari was allocated Sports and Youth Affairs besides Higher Education Department. Brijendra Singh Rathore got Commercial Tax, Lakhan Singh Yadav Animal Husbandry, Omkar Markam Scheduled Tribes Welfare, Sukhdeo Panse Public Health Engineering, Harsh Yadav New and Renewable Energy and Cottage and Village Industries, Kamleshwar Patel Panchayat and Rural Development, Lakhan Ghanghoriya Social Justice and SC Welfare. P C Sharma was given Law and Legislative Affairs, Surendra Singh Baghel Narmada Valley Development and Tourism Department, Pradyumn Singh Tomar Food and Civil Supplies, Mahendra Singh Sisodiya Labour Department and Priyavrat Singh Energy Department, the official said. Nath, who took oath as the 18th chief minister of Madhya Pradesh on December 17, had expanded his cabinet on December 25 by inducting 28 ministers. The Congress returned to power in the state after a hiatus of 15 years by ousting the Bharatiya Janata Party. Though the Congress, with 114 seats, depends on the support of the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Samajwadi Party, which have won two seats and one, respectively, no MLA from these two smaller parties has got a berth in the cabinet. A five-day session of the newly-elected Assembly is slated to begin from January 7.

Madhya Pradesh CM distributes portfolios; Tarun Bhanot gets finance department

Taking a jibe at the functioning of the newly-formed Congress government in Madhya Pradesh, former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan alleged that the delay in the allocation of portfolios to the ministers is a "matter of concern".

Talking to reporters at his residence, Chouhan said, "I extended my wishes to the new government, but it is a matter of concern the way formation of cabinet was delayed and now portfolio distribution is being delayed."&nbsp;

"We are seeing media reports and various Congress leaders are insisting for particular departments causing delay in the allocation. Quota of different camps (of Congress) was fixed. This delay is historic and never happened in the state," he claimed.

Chouhan said, "It is the chief minister's prerogative to allocate portfolios, but Digvijay ji - veteran Congress leader Digvijay Singh - was replying on such issues claiming this work would be done today."

He said, "Senior Congress MLAs like Bisahulal Singh, KP Singh and others, who don't belong to any group in Congress, failed to get berth."

In a reply to a question, he said the Congress should implement farm loan waiver in accordance to their promise.

"There should be no condition in loan waiver. The farm loan up to Rs 2 lakh, as on November this year end, should be waived," he said.

Asked about the Congress' manifesto promise about 'banning' the RSS Shakhas in government premises, Chouhan said, "Nehru ji (Jawaharlal Nehru) and Indira ji (Indira Gandhi) had also banned, but they had to withdraw. The RSS is the biggest organisation of patriots and honest people."&nbsp;

Taking a jibe at the functioning of the newly-formed Congress government in Madhya Pradesh, former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan alleged that the delay in the allocation of portfolios to the ministers is a "matter of concern".

Taking a jibe at the functioning of the newly-formed Congress government in Madhya Pradesh, former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan alleged that the delay in the allocation of portfolios to the ministers is a "matter of concern". Talking to reporters at his residence, Chouhan said, "I extended my wishes to the new government, but it is a matter of concern the way formation of cabinet was delayed and now portfolio distribution is being delayed." "We are seeing media reports and various Congress leaders are insisting for particular departments causing delay in the allocation. Quota of different camps (of Congress) was fixed. This delay is historic and never happened in the state," he claimed. Chouhan said, "It is the chief minister's prerogative to allocate portfolios, but Digvijay ji - veteran Congress leader Digvijay Singh - was replying on such issues claiming this work would be done today." He said, "Senior Congress MLAs like Bisahulal Singh, KP Singh and others, who don't belong to any group in Congress, failed to get berth." In a reply to a question, he said the Congress should implement farm loan waiver in accordance to their promise. "There should be no condition in loan waiver. The farm loan up to Rs 2 lakh, as on November this year end, should be waived," he said. Asked about the Congress' manifesto promise about 'banning' the RSS Shakhas in government premises, Chouhan said, "Nehru ji (Jawaharlal Nehru) and Indira ji (Indira Gandhi) had also banned, but they had to withdraw. The RSS is the biggest organisation of patriots and honest people."

Delay in portfolio allocation in newly-formed govt is matter of concern: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kamal-nath-sworn-in-as-madhya-pradesh-chief-minister-184795">Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath</a> expanded his Cabinet on Tuesday, with 28 MLAs, including two woman legislators, sworn in as ministers.

Governor Anandiben Patel administered the oath of office to the new ministers at the Raj Bhavan here.

Sajjan Singh Verma, Vijayalaxmi Sadho, Hukum Singh Karada, Govind Singh Rajput, Bala Bachchan, Arif Akil, Pradeep Jayaswal, Imarti Devi were among those sworn in as ministers.

Senior Congress leader and former Union minister Kamal Nath had taken oath as the chief minister on December 17, after the Congress won the Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections, defeating the BJP in a nail-biting contest.

The Congress returned to power in the state after a hiatus of 15 years.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath expanded his Cabinet on Tuesday, with 28 MLAs, including two woman legislators, sworn in as ministers. Governor Anandiben Patel administered the oath of office to the new ministers at the Raj Bhavan here.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath expanded his Cabinet on Tuesday, with 28 MLAs, including two woman legislators, sworn in as ministers. Governor Anandiben Patel administered the oath of office to the new ministers at the Raj Bhavan here. Sajjan Singh Verma, Vijayalaxmi Sadho, Hukum Singh Karada, Govind Singh Rajput, Bala Bachchan, Arif Akil, Pradeep Jayaswal, Imarti Devi were among those sworn in as ministers. Senior Congress leader and former Union minister Kamal Nath had taken oath as the chief minister on December 17, after the Congress won the Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections, defeating the BJP in a nail-biting contest. The Congress returned to power in the state after a hiatus of 15 years.

28 legislators take oath as ministers in Madhya Pradesh

Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday slammed the incumbent Congress government for blaming him for the shortage of urea in the state.

Lashing out at the Chief Minister Kamal Nath-led government, Chouhan said that instead of levelling baseless allegations at the previous dispensation, the Congress party should concentrate on running the state efficiently. Rubbishing Congress` claims of urea shortage, Chouhan told ANI, " Congress is in power in the state now, they should stop making baseless allegations and run the government efficiently. The state has already received more than 4 lakh metric tonne Urea till December 15, it should be distributed among farmers appropriately."

This comes amid the Congress government writing off loans of farmers in the state.

After winning the recently-concluded elections, the Congress government as promised, waived farm loans in the state. A similar announcement was made by the grand old party in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, where it uprooted the BJP and formed the government.

Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday slammed the incumbent Congress government for blaming him for the shortage of urea in the state.

Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday slammed the incumbent Congress government for blaming him for the shortage of urea in the state. Lashing out at the Chief Minister Kamal Nath-led government, Chouhan said that instead of levelling baseless allegations at the previous dispensation, the Congress party should concentrate on running the state efficiently. Rubbishing Congress` claims of urea shortage, Chouhan told ANI, " Congress is in power in the state now, they should stop making baseless allegations and run the government efficiently. The state has already received more than 4 lakh metric tonne Urea till December 15, it should be distributed among farmers appropriately." This comes amid the Congress government writing off loans of farmers in the state. After winning the recently-concluded elections, the Congress government as promised, waived farm loans in the state. A similar announcement was made by the grand old party in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, where it uprooted the BJP and formed the government.

Madhya Pradesh: Shivraj Singh Chouhan lashes out at Congress over urea shortage claim

What is Madhya Pradesh's new chief minister Kamal Nath up to? Given his reputation as an astute politician, not so much a grassroots leader as a backroom strategist, one would not dismiss his latest statement favouring jobs for local citizens of his state by structuring state incentives and his reference to migrants from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh taking away jobs as a goofy, foot-in-the-mouth outpouring.&nbsp;

There is a likely political strategy behind this and for this, we need to take stock of what is happening within the Indian National Congress.

It is quite clear that Nath's claim to fame despite being elected from the Chhindwara Lok Sabha constituency several times is that he is essentially where he is because he has built for himself the reputation as a doer on the back of his proximity to the Nehru-Gandhi political family that goes back to his days in Doon School as a chum of the late Sanjay Gandhi.

But he needs all the popular support he can muster in order to keep his place in a state where the rival BJP is extremely strong and power struggles within his own party can be even stronger - given that we have Jyotiraditya Scindia, Digvijaya Singh and even Ajay Singh, the son of late Arjun Singh, among formidable politicians with strong local support in varying degrees.

Nath's moment of glory has been in his signing a paper to waive off farm loans of up to Rs 2 lakh as part of his party's election promise. What better occasion than this photo opportunity for him to buy himself a future populist card sitting on a big chair? It must be remembered that the Congress is not what it used to be and Nath needs something beyond the blessings of 10, Janpath, the residence of Ms Sonia Gandhi, to stay ahead in the party and in the public eye. A populist gesture will also help him boost his image as a grassroots leader. Knowing him, the statement he made could not have been off-the-cuff at all.

Sadly, however, his statement in more than one sense reminds of two other historic figures associated with Madhya Pradesh, each with a story that resembles his. They are the famous poet Kalidasa and the celebrated singer Kishore Kumar.&nbsp;

What Kamal Nath is doing now may be for his party something resembling what the poet Kalidasa is supposed to have done as a youth when he started cutting the very branch of a tree he was sitting on, before he was coaxed out of his ignorant ways to become the most celebrated dramatist of India's leading classical language, Sanskrit.&nbsp;

Kamal Nath was born in UP, and it is said Kalidas, though associated with Ujjain in MP, may have migrated from Kashmir. Kishore Kumar, though a Bengali speaker, was born in Khandwa which is part of Madhya Pradesh. These illustrious sons would not have made Madhya Pradesh proud without the region following a welcome policy for outside workers. Nath himself is an outsider to MP. For him to talk of nativism based on domicile status is a case of irony wrapped in contradictions.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi's diplomatic evasion of comment on the nativist issue is understandable but he has to speak up sooner than later. The Nehru-Gandhi family traces its own origins to Delhi and Kashmir and not Uttar Pradesh where its political base lies.

Moreover, it is the Congress that led the move to frame India's Republican Constitution that promises fundamental rights, two of which are challenged by the kind of words Kamal Nath has used and a third implicitly so. The right to equality that is against discrimination including one based on place of birth and the right to freedom including one that allows freedom of movement and practice of a profession are two vital rights in Kamal Nath hit list. To this, we may add the idea of 'right to work' enshrined among the directive principles of the Constitution.&nbsp;

In effect, Kamal Nath, in a seemingly shrewd political move, may be cutting the branch of his Congress tree - or worse, the tree's very trunk. Parties like Raj Thackeray's Maharashtra Navanirman Sena (MNS) and K Chandrashekar Rao's Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) are known to play on nativism with a focus on domicile status. For Congress to do this would be naive at best and suicidal at worst.

The BJP's supporters and sympathisers frequently invoke Sonia Gandhi's Italian origins to call her a 'foreigner' despite all the hard work she has put in, including a level of fluency in Hindi that BJP's south Indian leaders cannot boast of. All that will come to nought if Kamal Nath is not pulled up for what he said. 
&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on Zeenews. Read the <a href="http://zeenews.india.com/blogs/kamal-naths-migrant-comment-could-be-a-foot-in-the-congress-mouth-2164331.html">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

What is Madhya Pradesh's new chief minister Kamal Nath up to? Given his reputation as an astute politician, not so much a grassroots leader as a backroom strategist, one would not dismiss his latest statement favouring jobs for local citizens of his state by structuring state incentives and his reference to migrants from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh taking away jobs as a goofy, foot-in-the-mouth outpouring.

What is Madhya Pradesh's new chief minister Kamal Nath up to? Given his reputation as an astute politician, not so much a grassroots leader as a backroom strategist, one would not dismiss his latest statement favouring jobs for local citizens of his state by structuring state incentives and his reference to migrants from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh taking away jobs as a goofy, foot-in-the-mouth outpouring. There is a likely political strategy behind this and for this, we need to take stock of what is happening within the Indian National Congress. It is quite clear that Nath's claim to fame despite being elected from the Chhindwara Lok Sabha constituency several times is that he is essentially where he is because he has built for himself the reputation as a doer on the back of his proximity to the Nehru-Gandhi political family that goes back to his days in Doon School as a chum of the late Sanjay Gandhi. But he needs all the popular support he can muster in order to keep his place in a state where the rival BJP is extremely strong and power struggles within his own party can be even stronger - given that we have Jyotiraditya Scindia, Digvijaya Singh and even Ajay Singh, the son of late Arjun Singh, among formidable politicians with strong local support in varying degrees. Nath's moment of glory has been in his signing a paper to waive off farm loans of up to Rs 2 lakh as part of his party's election promise. What better occasion than this photo opportunity for him to buy himself a future populist card sitting on a big chair? It must be remembered that the Congress is not what it used to be and Nath needs something beyond the blessings of 10, Janpath, the residence of Ms Sonia Gandhi, to stay ahead in the party and in the public eye. A populist gesture will also help him boost his image as a grassroots leader. Knowing him, the statement he made could not have been off-the-cuff at all. Sadly, however, his statement in more than one sense reminds of two other historic figures associated with Madhya Pradesh, each with a story that resembles his. They are the famous poet Kalidasa and the celebrated singer Kishore Kumar. What Kamal Nath is doing now may be for his party something resembling what the poet Kalidasa is supposed to have done as a youth when he started cutting the very branch of a tree he was sitting on, before he was coaxed out of his ignorant ways to become the most celebrated dramatist of India's leading classical language, Sanskrit. Kamal Nath was born in UP, and it is said Kalidas, though associated with Ujjain in MP, may have migrated from Kashmir. Kishore Kumar, though a Bengali speaker, was born in Khandwa which is part of Madhya Pradesh. These illustrious sons would not have made Madhya Pradesh proud without the region following a welcome policy for outside workers. Nath himself is an outsider to MP. For him to talk of nativism based on domicile status is a case of irony wrapped in contradictions. Congress president Rahul Gandhi's diplomatic evasion of comment on the nativist issue is understandable but he has to speak up sooner than later. The Nehru-Gandhi family traces its own origins to Delhi and Kashmir and not Uttar Pradesh where its political base lies. Moreover, it is the Congress that led the move to frame India's Republican Constitution that promises fundamental rights, two of which are challenged by the kind of words Kamal Nath has used and a third implicitly so. The right to equality that is against discrimination including one based on place of birth and the right to freedom including one that allows freedom of movement and practice of a profession are two vital rights in Kamal Nath hit list. To this, we may add the idea of 'right to work' enshrined among the directive principles of the Constitution. In effect, Kamal Nath, in a seemingly shrewd political move, may be cutting the branch of his Congress tree - or worse, the tree's very trunk. Parties like Raj Thackeray's Maharashtra Navanirman Sena (MNS) and K Chandrashekar Rao's Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) are known to play on nativism with a focus on domicile status. For Congress to do this would be naive at best and suicidal at worst. The BJP's supporters and sympathisers frequently invoke Sonia Gandhi's Italian origins to call her a 'foreigner' despite all the hard work she has put in, including a level of fluency in Hindi that BJP's south Indian leaders cannot boast of. All that will come to nought if Kamal Nath is not pulled up for what he said. (This article was originally published on Zeenews. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Kamal Nath's migrant comment could be a foot in the Congress mouth

Days after the Congress government announced farm loan waiver in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, the Rajasthan government on Wednesday&nbsp;declared a farm loan waiver for loans&nbsp;up to&nbsp;Rs 2 lakh.

The government said that it would bear the losses incurring Rs 18,000 crore.

After the Congress government came to power in the Hindi heartland, it announced a loan waiver for farmers in the three states.

The assurance to pay off the loans of the farmers is one of the key election promises that has helped the party to win the assembly elections in the three states.

The loans were waived in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh on Monday after Kamal Nath and Bhupesh Baghel took oath as chief ministers of the state.

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Rajasthan govt announces farm loan waiver for loans upto Rs 2 Lakh. State govt will bear a burden of Rs 18,000 Crore. <a href="https://t.co/BUPb33xfWR">pic.twitter.com/BUPb33xfWR</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1075397128854401024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;After the announcement of the loan waiver, Congress President Rahul Gandhi tweeted, "It's done! Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh have waived farm loans. We asked for 10 days. We did it in 2."

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It's done! 
 
Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh &amp; Chhattisgarh have waived farm loans. 
 
We asked for 10 days. 
 
We did it in 2.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1075417210196234240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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On Tuesday, a day after the Congress governments waived farm loans, the government of Sarbananda Sonowal waived loans of nearly 8 lakh farmers in Assam. Hours later, the Vijay Rupani government said it would forgo rural electricity bills to the tune of Rs. 650 crore.

(With inputs from agencies)

Days after the Congress government announced farm loan waiver in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, the Rajasthan government on Wednesday declared a farm loan waiver for loans up to Rs 2 lakh.

Days after the Congress government announced farm loan waiver in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, the Rajasthan government on Wednesday declared a farm loan waiver for loans up to Rs 2 lakh. The government said that it would bear the losses incurring Rs 18,000 crore. After the Congress government came to power in the Hindi heartland, it announced a loan waiver for farmers in the three states. The assurance to pay off the loans of the farmers is one of the key election promises that has helped the party to win the assembly elections in the three states. The loans were waived in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh on Monday after Kamal Nath and Bhupesh Baghel took oath as chief ministers of the state. Rajasthan govt announces farm loan waiver for loans upto Rs 2 Lakh. State govt will bear a burden of Rs 18,000 Crore. pic.twitter.com/BUPb33xfWR — ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2018 × After the announcement of the loan waiver, Congress President Rahul Gandhi tweeted, "It's done! Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh have waived farm loans. We asked for 10 days. We did it in 2." It's done! Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh & Chhattisgarh have waived farm loans. We asked for 10 days. We did it in 2. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) December 19, 2018 × On Tuesday, a day after the Congress governments waived farm loans, the government of Sarbananda Sonowal waived loans of nearly 8 lakh farmers in Assam. Hours later, the Vijay Rupani government said it would forgo rural electricity bills to the tune of Rs. 650 crore. (With inputs from agencies)

After Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, Congress announces farm loan waiver in Rajasthan

A case has been filed against Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath over his <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kamal-nath-pitches-for-70-jobs-to-madhya-pradesh-residents-says-up-and-bihar-people-take-away-locals-job-184943">remarks on UP-Bihar migrants</a> where he blamed the migrants for taking away the jobs of the local people.

The case has been filed by&nbsp;Tamanna Hashmi in Muzaffarpur court.

Hours after becoming the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kamal-nath-sworn-in-as-madhya-pradesh-chief-minister-184795">Kamal Nath</a>&nbsp;on Monday pitched for jobs for locals.

Speaking to reporters, he said, "people from other states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh come here and local people don't get jobs."

He further said, "Our schemes of providing incentives of investment will only be imposed after 70% people from Madhya Pradesh get employment."&nbsp;

Nath also added that&nbsp;he has signed a file for ensuring that jobs remain with the locals.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-sp-slam-kamal-nath-for-saying-up-and-bihar-people-take-away-locals-job-185082">Bharatiya Janata Party</a> responded to his comments and called it "divisive".

BJP leader and Lok Sabha MP from Madhya Pradesh said, "He has also been a Union minister. He should be aware of these rules. What he is talking about is already in place... By making such a claim, he is misleading people".

Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav also reacted to Nath's statement stating that it is wrong for other states to question why people from North India take up jobs there.&nbsp;

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Bihar: Case filed in Muzaffarpur Court by one Tamanna Hashmi against Madhya Pradesh CM Kamal Nath over his remark on UP-Bihar migrants (file pic) <a href="https://t.co/m7ai7vryxj">pic.twitter.com/m7ai7vryxj</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1075334821356994561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Congress won 114 assembly seats and secured the support of seven more MLAs - SP (1) and BSP (2) and four independents - to cross the majority mark of 116 in the 230-member Assembly.

Nath, who did not contest the November 28 assembly elections, was sworn in as the 18th Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh on December 17.

Governor Anandiben Patel administered the oath of office to the 72-year-old Congress veteran who was at the forefront in steering the party to a win in the assembly polls.

&nbsp;

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A case has been filed against Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath over his remarks on UP-Bihar migrants where he blamed the migrants for taking away the jobs of the local people.

A case has been filed against Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath over his remarks on UP-Bihar migrants where he blamed the migrants for taking away the jobs of the local people. The case has been filed by Tamanna Hashmi in Muzaffarpur court. Hours after becoming the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Kamal Nath on Monday pitched for jobs for locals. Speaking to reporters, he said, "people from other states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh come here and local people don't get jobs." He further said, "Our schemes of providing incentives of investment will only be imposed after 70% people from Madhya Pradesh get employment." Nath also added that he has signed a file for ensuring that jobs remain with the locals. The Bharatiya Janata Party responded to his comments and called it "divisive". BJP leader and Lok Sabha MP from Madhya Pradesh said, "He has also been a Union minister. He should be aware of these rules. What he is talking about is already in place... By making such a claim, he is misleading people". Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav also reacted to Nath's statement stating that it is wrong for other states to question why people from North India take up jobs there. Bihar: Case filed in Muzaffarpur Court by one Tamanna Hashmi against Madhya Pradesh CM Kamal Nath over his remark on UP-Bihar migrants (file pic) pic.twitter.com/m7ai7vryxj — ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2018 × The Congress won 114 assembly seats and secured the support of seven more MLAs - SP (1) and BSP (2) and four independents - to cross the majority mark of 116 in the 230-member Assembly. Nath, who did not contest the November 28 assembly elections, was sworn in as the 18th Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh on December 17. Governor Anandiben Patel administered the oath of office to the 72-year-old Congress veteran who was at the forefront in steering the party to a win in the assembly polls.

Bihar: Case registered against Madhya Pradesh CM Kamal Nath over his remarks on migrants

Cabinet formation is proving to be a tight-rope walk for Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath, who took over the reins of office on Monday ( December 17) after Congress party, which ended up two short of a clear majority, mustered support of 2 BSP, 1 Samajwadi Party and four Independent MLAs to form the new government in the state after 15 years of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rule.

The supporters of senior Congress leader and scion of the erstwhile ruling family of Gwalior Jyotiraditya Scindia were determined to see their leader, who was the state Congress poll campaign committee chairman, as the next chief minister.&nbsp;

After the Congress romped home victorious, they were determined to see Scindia as chief minister but this did not happen. The Scindia supporters, who are obviously dejected, are now using every bit of their tugging power to pull as many ministerial berths and powerful portfolios as possible.

The Madhya Pradesh Congress unit has always faced the challenge of divided loyalties. During electioneering, the state party chieftains had sunk their differences to give a united fight to the BJP. Now with elections over, the Congress party’s inner-party rivalry once again has surfaced in a big way and this got demonstrated by Nath’s swearing-in&nbsp;that turned out to be a solo affair, unlike Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh.

Besides the factions loyal to Nath and Scindia, there are also powerful groups in the Madhya Pradesh Congress unit aligned to former chief minister Digvijaya Singh, former Union Minister Suresh Pachouri, former leader of Opposition in the state Assembly Ajay Singh, former State party chief Arun Yadav and former Union Minister and tribal leader Kantilal Bhuria. None of these groups is ready to concede even an iota as far as their demands vis-a-vis cabinet formation are concerned.

Carrying all these groups together and keeping the party satraps in good humour is not easy and what makes the task even more formidable for the new chief minister is that while picking his Cabinet colleagues and junior ministers, special attention also will have to be paid towards maintaining regional balance and ensuring adequate representation to different sections, including minorities.

The gigantic task of Cabinet formation remains a huge priority for the chief minister. Empty state coffers, corruption at all levels of the government and an unbridled bureaucracy also pose a big challenge. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, immediately after assuming office, Nath acted swiftly and passed the orders to waive the farmers’ loans up to Rs 2 lakh to fulfil a major pre-election promise. Responding to a poser in this regard, at his maiden press conference held after his swearing-in, Nath said since there are no ministers, he is the Cabinet. He also used this occasion to share his concern about in-migration and especially named Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, while announcing that industries would get incentives from the state government only if they reserved 70 per cent of jobs for those belonging to Madhya Pradesh.&nbsp;

A policy decision has been taken in this regard, he added. &nbsp;This one announcement has opened up the Pandora’s box as Congress party interested in a grand alliance for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections would not like to rub its allies in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. When this issue was brought to the notice of Congress President Rahul Gandhi by media-persons, he appeared flustered while replying that he would be able to respond only after gathering details.

Nath is also under attack by those trying to rope him in as an accused after the Delhi high court on Monday sentenced Congress leader Sajjan Kumar to imprisonment for life in an anti-Sikh riots case of 1984. BJP functionaries from Madhya Pradesh were seen lending support to Sikh protestors who came out gunning for Nath after the court convicted Kumar of instigating violence after Indira Gandhi was assassinated by her two Sikh bodyguards.&nbsp;

The Madhya Pradesh chief minister has described the tirade against him as politically motivated. &nbsp;There is no case or FIR against him. It is not the first time that he has been sworn-in. He took oath as a Union minister way back in 1991, Nath has asserted to steer clear of allegations and charges.&nbsp; 
 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Cabinet formation is proving to be a tight-rope walk for Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath, who took over the reins of office on Monday ( December 17) after Congress party, which ended up two short of a clear majority, mustered support of 2 BSP, 1 Samajwadi Party and four Independent MLAs to form the new government in the state after 15 years of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rule.

Cabinet formation is proving to be a tight-rope walk for Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath, who took over the reins of office on Monday ( December 17) after Congress party, which ended up two short of a clear majority, mustered support of 2 BSP, 1 Samajwadi Party and four Independent MLAs to form the new government in the state after 15 years of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rule. The supporters of senior Congress leader and scion of the erstwhile ruling family of Gwalior Jyotiraditya Scindia were determined to see their leader, who was the state Congress poll campaign committee chairman, as the next chief minister. After the Congress romped home victorious, they were determined to see Scindia as chief minister but this did not happen. The Scindia supporters, who are obviously dejected, are now using every bit of their tugging power to pull as many ministerial berths and powerful portfolios as possible. The Madhya Pradesh Congress unit has always faced the challenge of divided loyalties. During electioneering, the state party chieftains had sunk their differences to give a united fight to the BJP. Now with elections over, the Congress party’s inner-party rivalry once again has surfaced in a big way and this got demonstrated by Nath’s swearing-in that turned out to be a solo affair, unlike Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. Besides the factions loyal to Nath and Scindia, there are also powerful groups in the Madhya Pradesh Congress unit aligned to former chief minister Digvijaya Singh, former Union Minister Suresh Pachouri, former leader of Opposition in the state Assembly Ajay Singh, former State party chief Arun Yadav and former Union Minister and tribal leader Kantilal Bhuria. None of these groups is ready to concede even an iota as far as their demands vis-a-vis cabinet formation are concerned. Carrying all these groups together and keeping the party satraps in good humour is not easy and what makes the task even more formidable for the new chief minister is that while picking his Cabinet colleagues and junior ministers, special attention also will have to be paid towards maintaining regional balance and ensuring adequate representation to different sections, including minorities. The gigantic task of Cabinet formation remains a huge priority for the chief minister. Empty state coffers, corruption at all levels of the government and an unbridled bureaucracy also pose a big challenge. Meanwhile, immediately after assuming office, Nath acted swiftly and passed the orders to waive the farmers’ loans up to Rs 2 lakh to fulfil a major pre-election promise. Responding to a poser in this regard, at his maiden press conference held after his swearing-in, Nath said since there are no ministers, he is the Cabinet. He also used this occasion to share his concern about in-migration and especially named Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, while announcing that industries would get incentives from the state government only if they reserved 70 per cent of jobs for those belonging to Madhya Pradesh. A policy decision has been taken in this regard, he added. This one announcement has opened up the Pandora’s box as Congress party interested in a grand alliance for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections would not like to rub its allies in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. When this issue was brought to the notice of Congress President Rahul Gandhi by media-persons, he appeared flustered while replying that he would be able to respond only after gathering details. Nath is also under attack by those trying to rope him in as an accused after the Delhi high court on Monday sentenced Congress leader Sajjan Kumar to imprisonment for life in an anti-Sikh riots case of 1984. BJP functionaries from Madhya Pradesh were seen lending support to Sikh protestors who came out gunning for Nath after the court convicted Kumar of instigating violence after Indira Gandhi was assassinated by her two Sikh bodyguards. The Madhya Pradesh chief minister has described the tirade against him as politically motivated. There is no case or FIR against him. It is not the first time that he has been sworn-in. He took oath as a Union minister way back in 1991, Nath has asserted to steer clear of allegations and charges. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Tightrope walk for Kamal Nath in Madhya Pradesh

Hours after becoming the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kamal-nath-sworn-in-as-madhya-pradesh-chief-minister-184795">Kamal Nath</a> pitched for jobs for locals on Monday.&nbsp;

The Madhya Pradesh CM said that "people from other states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh come here &amp; local people don't get jobs."

Speaking to reporters, the newly-appointed chief minister said, "Our schemes of providing incentives of investment will only be imposed after 70% people from Madhya Pradesh get employment."&nbsp;

He further added that he has signed a file for ensuring that jobs remain with the locals.

The veteran politician also said that waiving off farm loans was a promise made before MP elections and he has fulfilled it. He then said employment was another promise made and he will strive to provide people of Madhya Pradesh with jobs.

Asked about arrangements of funds for farm loan-waiver and other schemes, Kamal Nath said, "New resources would be developed to arrange funds. The BJP has admitted the truth that they have left the state's treasury in a bad shape."

To a question about banning RSS shakhas in government buildings which were promised in the Congress manifesto, he said, "We have talked about following similar rules enacted by the Centre and the Gujarat government."

The Congress won 114 assembly seats and secured the support of seven more MLAs - SP (1) and BSP (2) and four independents - to cross the majority mark of 116 in the 230-member Assembly.

Nath, who did not contest the November 28 assembly elections, was sworn in as the 18th Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh on December 17.

Governor Anandiben Patel administered the oath of office to the 72-year-old Congress veteran who was at the forefront in steering the party to a win in the assembly polls.

(With inputs from PTI)

Hours after becoming the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Kamal Nath pitched for jobs for locals on Monday. The Madhya Pradesh CM said that "people from other states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh come here & local people don't get jobs.

Hours after becoming the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Kamal Nath pitched for jobs for locals on Monday. The Madhya Pradesh CM said that "people from other states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh come here & local people don't get jobs." Speaking to reporters, the newly-appointed chief minister said, "Our schemes of providing incentives of investment will only be imposed after 70% people from Madhya Pradesh get employment." He further added that he has signed a file for ensuring that jobs remain with the locals. The veteran politician also said that waiving off farm loans was a promise made before MP elections and he has fulfilled it. He then said employment was another promise made and he will strive to provide people of Madhya Pradesh with jobs. Asked about arrangements of funds for farm loan-waiver and other schemes, Kamal Nath said, "New resources would be developed to arrange funds. The BJP has admitted the truth that they have left the state's treasury in a bad shape." To a question about banning RSS shakhas in government buildings which were promised in the Congress manifesto, he said, "We have talked about following similar rules enacted by the Centre and the Gujarat government." The Congress won 114 assembly seats and secured the support of seven more MLAs - SP (1) and BSP (2) and four independents - to cross the majority mark of 116 in the 230-member Assembly. Nath, who did not contest the November 28 assembly elections, was sworn in as the 18th Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh on December 17. Governor Anandiben Patel administered the oath of office to the 72-year-old Congress veteran who was at the forefront in steering the party to a win in the assembly polls. (With inputs from PTI)

Kamal Nath pitches for 70% jobs to Madhya Pradesh residents, says UP and Bihar people take away locals' job

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Tuesday called Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kamal-nath-pitches-for-70-jobs-to-madhya-pradesh-residents-says-up-and-bihar-people-take-away-locals-job-184943">Kamal Nath's comment on jobs given to people from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh</a> as "divisive."

Nath, shortly after taking oath as the chief minister on Monday, stated that &nbsp;"people from other states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh come here and local people don't get jobs."

Criticising Nath, Union minister Narendra Singh Tomar said he appeared to be unaware of existing rules that prioritise jobs for the native population.

"He has also been a Union minister. He should be aware of these rules. What he is talking about is already in place... By making such a claim, he is misleading people," the BJP leader and Lok Sabha MP from Madhya Pradesh told reporters.

Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav also reacted to Nath's statement stating that it is wrong for other states to question why people from North India take up jobs there.&nbsp;

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Akhilesh Yadav on MP CM Kamal Nath's statement: It's wrong, often you get to hear the same from Maharashtra. Why have North Indians come here? Why have they taken up jobs here? Same from Delhi &amp; now from MP as well. What if North Indians decide who'll form govt at centre? <a href="https://t.co/aoHloobeK7">pic.twitter.com/aoHloobeK7</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1074971172377309184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"It's wrong, often you get to hear the same from Maharashtra. Why have North Indians come here? Why have they taken up jobs here? Same from Delhi &amp; now from MP as well. What if North Indians decide who'll form govt at centre?" he said.

Nath on Monday told reporters that his government will give incentives to industries that give 70 per cent of their jobs to those from his state and added that people from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh get employment in Madhya Pradesh at the cost of the local population.

The veteran politician also said that waiving off farm loans was a promise made before MP elections and he has fulfilled it. He then said employment was another promise made and he will strive to provide people of Madhya Pradesh with jobs.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Tuesday called Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath's comment on jobs given to people from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh as "divisive.

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Tuesday called Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath's comment on jobs given to people from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh as "divisive." Nath, shortly after taking oath as the chief minister on Monday, stated that "people from other states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh come here and local people don't get jobs." Criticising Nath, Union minister Narendra Singh Tomar said he appeared to be unaware of existing rules that prioritise jobs for the native population. "He has also been a Union minister. He should be aware of these rules. What he is talking about is already in place... By making such a claim, he is misleading people," the BJP leader and Lok Sabha MP from Madhya Pradesh told reporters. Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav also reacted to Nath's statement stating that it is wrong for other states to question why people from North India take up jobs there. Akhilesh Yadav on MP CM Kamal Nath's statement: It's wrong, often you get to hear the same from Maharashtra. Why have North Indians come here? Why have they taken up jobs here? Same from Delhi & now from MP as well. What if North Indians decide who'll form govt at centre? pic.twitter.com/aoHloobeK7 — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) December 18, 2018 × "It's wrong, often you get to hear the same from Maharashtra. Why have North Indians come here? Why have they taken up jobs here? Same from Delhi & now from MP as well. What if North Indians decide who'll form govt at centre?" he said. Nath on Monday told reporters that his government will give incentives to industries that give 70 per cent of their jobs to those from his state and added that people from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh get employment in Madhya Pradesh at the cost of the local population. The veteran politician also said that waiving off farm loans was a promise made before MP elections and he has fulfilled it. He then said employment was another promise made and he will strive to provide people of Madhya Pradesh with jobs. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP, SP slam Kamal Nath for saying UP and Bihar people take away locals' jobs

The oath-taking ceremony of the three newly-elected Congress governments in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh will take place today back-to-back at 3 different times.&nbsp;

Congress has arranged consecutive swearing-in ceremonies in three states it wrested from the BJP in just-finished assembly polls.

Ashok Gehlot will be sworn-in as Rajasthan Chief Minister in Jaipur in the morning around 10.30 am, Kamal Nath will take the oath in Madhya Pradesh's capital Bhopal around 1.30 pm followed by Bhupesh Baghel in Chhattisgarh's Raipur at 4.30 pm.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi is expected to attend all the events.

A phalanx of opposition leaders, including DMK president MK Stalin, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, BSP chief Mayawati, SP president Akhilesh Yadav, and NCP president Sharad Pawar, will also be present on the occasion as a show of opposition unity.

In the recently-concluded Assembly elections, the results of which were declared on December 11, the Congress dealt a massive blow to the BJP by ousting its governments in the three `Hindi heartland` states.

While the party registered a resounding victory in Chhattisgarh, winning 68 seats as opposed to the BJP's 15, in Rajasthan the Congress bagged 99 seats, and the BJP 73.

Madhya Pradesh saw a nail-biting fight, where the Congress managed to bag 114 seats out of a total of 230. The Congress then roped in seven seats, two from the BSP, one from Samajwadi Party and four Independents candidates, to form the government.&nbsp;

The Congress had completed the process of selecting chief ministers for all three states it won last week, including Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.&nbsp;

On Thursday, Gandhi had chosen Kamal Nath to head the government in Madhya Pradesh, while the decision over Ashok Gehlot as the chief minister and Sachin Pilot as his deputy in Rajasthan was announced on Friday. The party did not rule out the possibility of having a deputy chief minister in Chhattisgarh, too.

(With inputs from agencies)

The oath-taking ceremony of the three newly-elected Congress governments in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh will take place today back-to-back at 3 different times.

The oath-taking ceremony of the three newly-elected Congress governments in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh will take place today back-to-back at 3 different times. Congress has arranged consecutive swearing-in ceremonies in three states it wrested from the BJP in just-finished assembly polls. Ashok Gehlot will be sworn-in as Rajasthan Chief Minister in Jaipur in the morning around 10.30 am, Kamal Nath will take the oath in Madhya Pradesh's capital Bhopal around 1.30 pm followed by Bhupesh Baghel in Chhattisgarh's Raipur at 4.30 pm. Congress president Rahul Gandhi is expected to attend all the events. A phalanx of opposition leaders, including DMK president MK Stalin, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, BSP chief Mayawati, SP president Akhilesh Yadav, and NCP president Sharad Pawar, will also be present on the occasion as a show of opposition unity. In the recently-concluded Assembly elections, the results of which were declared on December 11, the Congress dealt a massive blow to the BJP by ousting its governments in the three `Hindi heartland` states. While the party registered a resounding victory in Chhattisgarh, winning 68 seats as opposed to the BJP's 15, in Rajasthan the Congress bagged 99 seats, and the BJP 73. Madhya Pradesh saw a nail-biting fight, where the Congress managed to bag 114 seats out of a total of 230. The Congress then roped in seven seats, two from the BSP, one from Samajwadi Party and four Independents candidates, to form the government. The Congress had completed the process of selecting chief ministers for all three states it won last week, including Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. On Thursday, Gandhi had chosen Kamal Nath to head the government in Madhya Pradesh, while the decision over Ashok Gehlot as the chief minister and Sachin Pilot as his deputy in Rajasthan was announced on Friday. The party did not rule out the possibility of having a deputy chief minister in Chhattisgarh, too. (With inputs from agencies)

Back-to-back three oath-taking ceremonies for Congress today

Congress leader Kamal Nath was sworn in as the 18th chief minister of Madhya Pradesh on Monday.Governor Anandiben Patel administered the oath of office to Nath.

The governor had on Friday invited Nath to form the new government in the state.

The Congress on Thursday named Nath, a nine-time Lok Sabha member from Chhindwara, to head the state Congress Legislature Party, after hours of hectic parleying between party chief Rahul Gandhi and senior party leaders.&nbsp;

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Madhya Pradesh CM Kamal Nath: Our schemes of providing incentives of investment will only be imposed after 70% people from Madhya Pradesh get employment. People from other states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh come here &amp; local people don't get jobs. I have signed file for this <a href="https://t.co/qjORqyBuFc">pic.twitter.com/qjORqyBuFc</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1074641506571640834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Nath's first act as chief minister was to sign off on the farm loan waiver promised by the Congress.&nbsp;

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Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath signs on the files for farm loan waiver <a href="https://t.co/NspxMA8Z6i">pic.twitter.com/NspxMA8Z6i</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1074624016466489345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Bhopal: Kamal Nath takes oath as the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. <a href="https://t.co/3OyyFymcXK">pic.twitter.com/3OyyFymcXK</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1074591886273171456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Nath, who has held several portfolios in the Union cabinet, was appointed the Madhya Pradesh Congress Committee president on April 26 and was at the forefront in steering the party to a win in the November 28 Assembly polls.

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Madhya Pradesh CM Kamal Nath: After joining this post (of Chief Minister), the first file I have signed is of farm loan waiver of Rs 2 lakh each, as I had promised to the farmers <a href="https://t.co/E7Goc2T425">pic.twitter.com/E7Goc2T425</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1074640322318209025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, the venue of CM designate Bhupesh Baghel's oath-taking ceremony was changed&nbsp;due to rainfall today.

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Chhattisgarh: The venue of CM designate Bhupesh Baghel's oath taking ceremony has been changed from Science College ground to Balbir Singh Juneja Indoor Stadium in Raipur, due to continuous rainfall. (file pic) <a href="https://t.co/esrXc4oKuG">pic.twitter.com/esrXc4oKuG</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1074594347570479107?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Due to rainfall, the venue was changed from Science College ground to Balbir Singh Juneja Indoor Stadium in Raipur, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bhupesh-baghel-sworn-in-as-chhattisgarh-cm-184861">Baghel was sworn in as Chhattisgarh CM</a> on Monday evening.&nbsp;

Bhupesh Baghel has served as Congress party chief for Chattisgarh and is also an MLA from Patan, he is credited for bringing the party back to power after 15 years in oblivion.

Apart from Baghel, TS Singh Deo, Tamradhwaj Sahu and Charan Das Mahant were the top contenders for the post.

After mulling over various options for the past four days, Rahul Gandhi led Congress decided on Baghel, said sources.&nbsp;

Senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot was sworn in as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ashok-gehlot-takes-oath-as-12th-rajasthan-chief-minister-at-jaipurs-historic-albert-hall-184717">Rajasthan Chief Minister</a> earlier in the day.

(With inputs from agencies)

Congress leader Kamal Nath was sworn in as the 18th chief minister of Madhya Pradesh on Monday.Governor Anandiben Patel administered the oath of office to Nath. The governor had on Friday invited Nath to form the new government in the state.

Congress leader Kamal Nath was sworn in as the 18th chief minister of Madhya Pradesh on Monday.Governor Anandiben Patel administered the oath of office to Nath. The governor had on Friday invited Nath to form the new government in the state. The Congress on Thursday named Nath, a nine-time Lok Sabha member from Chhindwara, to head the state Congress Legislature Party, after hours of hectic parleying between party chief Rahul Gandhi and senior party leaders. Madhya Pradesh CM Kamal Nath: Our schemes of providing incentives of investment will only be imposed after 70% people from Madhya Pradesh get employment. People from other states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh come here & local people don't get jobs. I have signed file for this pic.twitter.com/qjORqyBuFc — ANI (@ANI) December 17, 2018 × Nath's first act as chief minister was to sign off on the farm loan waiver promised by the Congress. Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath signs on the files for farm loan waiver pic.twitter.com/NspxMA8Z6i — ANI (@ANI) December 17, 2018 × Bhopal: Kamal Nath takes oath as the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. pic.twitter.com/3OyyFymcXK — ANI (@ANI) December 17, 2018 × Nath, who has held several portfolios in the Union cabinet, was appointed the Madhya Pradesh Congress Committee president on April 26 and was at the forefront in steering the party to a win in the November 28 Assembly polls. Madhya Pradesh CM Kamal Nath: After joining this post (of Chief Minister), the first file I have signed is of farm loan waiver of Rs 2 lakh each, as I had promised to the farmers pic.twitter.com/E7Goc2T425 — ANI (@ANI) December 17, 2018 × Meanwhile, the venue of CM designate Bhupesh Baghel's oath-taking ceremony was changed due to rainfall today. Chhattisgarh: The venue of CM designate Bhupesh Baghel's oath taking ceremony has been changed from Science College ground to Balbir Singh Juneja Indoor Stadium in Raipur, due to continuous rainfall. (file pic) pic.twitter.com/esrXc4oKuG — ANI (@ANI) December 17, 2018 × Due to rainfall, the venue was changed from Science College ground to Balbir Singh Juneja Indoor Stadium in Raipur, news agency ANI reported. Baghel was sworn in as Chhattisgarh CM on Monday evening. Bhupesh Baghel has served as Congress party chief for Chattisgarh and is also an MLA from Patan, he is credited for bringing the party back to power after 15 years in oblivion. Apart from Baghel, TS Singh Deo, Tamradhwaj Sahu and Charan Das Mahant were the top contenders for the post. After mulling over various options for the past four days, Rahul Gandhi led Congress decided on Baghel, said sources. Senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot was sworn in as Rajasthan Chief Minister earlier in the day. (With inputs from agencies)

Kamal Nath sworn in as Madhya Pradesh CM, first act is to sign off on farm loan waiver

Madhya Pradesh <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-fulfill-all-promise-made-by-congress-kamal-nath-183909">chief minister-elect Kamal Nath</a> said on Friday that ensuring safety of women will be among his top priorities, also strengthening of farm sector and job creations.

He also assured that the promise of farm loan waiver made by the Congress will be fulfilled.

"Our priority will be to strengthen the agriculture sector to ramp up farm-based economy in Madhya Pradesh," he told reporters at his residence in Bhopal.&nbsp;

"My government will provide a safe environment to women and shore up employment avenues for the youth," he added.

"We are going to waive farmers' loans as promised," Nath said, adding, "I thank the people from the bottom of my heart for voting for the Congress. I assure them I will never let them down."

Kamal Nath will take oath as chief minister of Madhya Pradesh on December 17 at Lal Parade ground in Bhopal.

The announcement of Nath's name as the new chief minister was made by the party observer for the state AK Antony on Thursday after being elected "unanimously" as the new Congress Legislative Party (CLP) leader at meeting of the newly-elected MLAs.

Madhya Pradesh chief minister-elect Kamal Nath said on Friday that ensuring safety of women will be among his top priorities, also strengthening of farm sector and job creations.

Madhya Pradesh chief minister-elect Kamal Nath said on Friday that ensuring safety of women will be among his top priorities, also strengthening of farm sector and job creations. He also assured that the promise of farm loan waiver made by the Congress will be fulfilled. "Our priority will be to strengthen the agriculture sector to ramp up farm-based economy in Madhya Pradesh," he told reporters at his residence in Bhopal. "My government will provide a safe environment to women and shore up employment avenues for the youth," he added. "We are going to waive farmers' loans as promised," Nath said, adding, "I thank the people from the bottom of my heart for voting for the Congress. I assure them I will never let them down." Kamal Nath will take oath as chief minister of Madhya Pradesh on December 17 at Lal Parade ground in Bhopal. The announcement of Nath's name as the new chief minister was made by the party observer for the state AK Antony on Thursday after being elected "unanimously" as the new Congress Legislative Party (CLP) leader at meeting of the newly-elected MLAs.

Kamal Nath lists out priorities as Madhya Pradesh chief minister ahead of swearing-in

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