Leaders of various opposition parties are expected to attend the oath-taking ceremony of the new governments in<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kamal-nath-lists-out-priorities-as-madhya-pradesh-chief-minister-ahead-of-swearing-in-184140"> Madhya Pradesh</a> and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajasthan-ashok-gehlot-and-sachin-pilot-to-take-oath-as-chief-minister-dy-cm-respectively-on-december-17-184105">Rajasthan</a>.

Citing sources news agency ANI said that leaders of various opposition parties including Sharad Pawar, Sharad Yadav, MK Stalin, Tejashwi Yadav, Akhilesh Yadav, Mayawati, Arvind Kejriwal are expected to show their presence in the swearing in of the new Congress government.

ANI further added that Mamata Banerjee will send a representative in the ceremony as her mother is unwell.

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Sources:Sharad Pawar, Sharad Yadav, MK Stalin, Tejashwi Yadav, Akhilesh Yadav, Mayawati, Arvind Kejriwal, among other opposition leaders will attend oath ceremony in Rajasthan &amp; Madhya Pradesh on December 17. Mamata Banerjee will send a representative because her mother is unwell <a href="https://t.co/EJAVvLaR5m">pic.twitter.com/EJAVvLaR5m</a>
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The oath ceremony of the newly elected Congress government in the two states will take place on December 17.

The Congress has appointed Kamal Nath as the new chief minister of Madhya Pradesh and Ashok Gehlot for Rajasthan.

A similar get together of opposition leaders was seen in the swearing-in ceremony of Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy.

Opposition leaders, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav, Mayawati, Chandrababu Naidu, Mamata Banerjee, Tejashwi Yadav, Sitaram Yechury, Sharad Pawar were present in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/karnataka-hd-kumaraswamy-takes-oath-as-cm-139225">oath ceremony of HD Kumaraswamy</a>.&nbsp;

Leaders of various opposition parties are expected to attend the oath-taking ceremony of the new governments in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Citing sources news agency ANI said that leaders of various opposition parties including Sharad Pawar, Sharad Yadav, MK Stalin, Tejashwi Yadav, Akhilesh Yadav, Mayawati, Arvind Kejriwal are expected to show their presence in the swearing in of the new Congress government.

Leaders of various opposition parties are expected to attend the oath-taking ceremony of the new governments in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Citing sources news agency ANI said that leaders of various opposition parties including Sharad Pawar, Sharad Yadav, MK Stalin, Tejashwi Yadav, Akhilesh Yadav, Mayawati, Arvind Kejriwal are expected to show their presence in the swearing in of the new Congress government. ANI further added that Mamata Banerjee will send a representative in the ceremony as her mother is unwell. Sources:Sharad Pawar, Sharad Yadav, MK Stalin, Tejashwi Yadav, Akhilesh Yadav, Mayawati, Arvind Kejriwal, among other opposition leaders will attend oath ceremony in Rajasthan & Madhya Pradesh on December 17. Mamata Banerjee will send a representative because her mother is unwell pic.twitter.com/EJAVvLaR5m — ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2018 × The oath ceremony of the newly elected Congress government in the two states will take place on December 17. The Congress has appointed Kamal Nath as the new chief minister of Madhya Pradesh and Ashok Gehlot for Rajasthan. A similar get together of opposition leaders was seen in the swearing-in ceremony of Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy. Opposition leaders, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav, Mayawati, Chandrababu Naidu, Mamata Banerjee, Tejashwi Yadav, Sitaram Yechury, Sharad Pawar were present in the oath ceremony of HD Kumaraswamy.

Opposition leaders to attend oath ceremony of Congress CMs in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh

After discussions that lasted hours, the Congress Wednesday failed to bring about a consensus in its ranks in Rajasthan on who should be the chief minister even as it staked its claim to form the government.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-eyes-now-on-whom-rahul-gandhi-will-choose-as-his-chief-ministers-183485">decision on the chief minister will be taken Thursday by party president Rahul Gandhi</a>, All India Congress Committee general secretary Avinash Pande told reporters after a party delegation met Governor Kalyan Singh to seek an invitation to form the government.

Pande said Gandhi will be briefed about the deliberations by the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) in Jaipur over the chief minister's post

Pradesh Congress Committee president Sachin Pilot and former chief minister Ashok Gehlot, both MLAs, are the frontrunners for the post and were part of the delegation that met Kalyan Singh.

Earlier in the day, the CLP held a scheduled meeting at the party office, where it passed a one-line resolution in which the newly elected MLAs authorised Gandhi to decide on the chief minister's post.

After the resolution was passed, K C Venugopal, the AICC observer sent by the party to Jaipur, held discussions with individual MLAs, seeking their opinion.

The exercise went on for several hours but there was no consensus and the CLP then left the decision on Gandhi. 
"We will hand over our report to the party president tomorrow," Pande said.

Apart from AICC general secretaries Venugopal and Pande, the party had also sent four AICC secretaries to Jaipur. 
They are all expected to meet Gandhi in Delhi. Both Pilot and Gehlot would remain in Jaipur, party leaders said.

"A delegation of the party met the Governor. We have the majority and will form the government," Pande said. 
Leader of opposition Rameshwar Dudi, who lost election on Nokha seat, was also part of the delegation.

"The party observer held discussions with the MLAs and the name of the chief minister will be decided at the level of the party president Rahul Gandhi by tomorrow evening," Dudi told reporters outside Raj Bhawan.

Congress won 99 out of the 199 seats that went to the polls on December 7. Its alliance partner Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) also bagged a seat, taking the combined tally to 100 needed to form the government.

The party is also looking for support from independent candidates and non-BJP parties.

Pande said several other MLAs have also extended support to the Congress in writing and the final list will be handed over to the Governor later.

The Bharatiya Janata Party won 73 seats.&nbsp;

Resolution unanimous that Rahul will decide

Meanwhile, newly-elected Congress MLAs in Madhya Pradesh Wednesday asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to nominate the new legislature party leader.

At a meeting here in the evening, they unanimously passed a resolution authorising Gandhi to name the CLP leader.

"The resolution was moved by senior MLA Arif Aqueel and seconded by other MLAs. They passed it unanimously, authorising the Congress president to nominate the legislature party leader," state Congress media cell chairperson, Shobha Oza told reporters.

The meeting lasted for about two hours, she said.

Senior Congress leaders A K Antony and Bhanwar Jitendra Singh attended the meeting as the central observers.

Oza said Gandhi will be conveyed the decision of the newly-elected MLAs, after which he will name the CLP leader.

The observers are also talking to the MLAs to seek their views, she said.

All the four independent MLAs, elected in the November 28 poll, were also present in the meeting, she said.

The Congress Wednesday emerged as the single largest party in the state by winning 114 seats, two short of a simple majority of 116 in 230-member house and claimed that it has the support of 121 members.

BSP supremo Mayawati Wednesday morning extended support of her party to the Congress.

Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhhan Wednesday tendered his resignation to Governor Anandiben Patel, who met a Congress delegation here at noon after the party leaders wrote to her last night, seeking a chance to form the new government in the central Indian state.&nbsp;

After discussions that lasted hours, the Congress Wednesday failed to bring about a consensus in its ranks in Rajasthan on who should be the chief minister even as it staked its claim to form the government.

After discussions that lasted hours, the Congress Wednesday failed to bring about a consensus in its ranks in Rajasthan on who should be the chief minister even as it staked its claim to form the government. The decision on the chief minister will be taken Thursday by party president Rahul Gandhi, All India Congress Committee general secretary Avinash Pande told reporters after a party delegation met Governor Kalyan Singh to seek an invitation to form the government. Pande said Gandhi will be briefed about the deliberations by the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) in Jaipur over the chief minister's post Pradesh Congress Committee president Sachin Pilot and former chief minister Ashok Gehlot, both MLAs, are the frontrunners for the post and were part of the delegation that met Kalyan Singh. Earlier in the day, the CLP held a scheduled meeting at the party office, where it passed a one-line resolution in which the newly elected MLAs authorised Gandhi to decide on the chief minister's post. After the resolution was passed, K C Venugopal, the AICC observer sent by the party to Jaipur, held discussions with individual MLAs, seeking their opinion. The exercise went on for several hours but there was no consensus and the CLP then left the decision on Gandhi. "We will hand over our report to the party president tomorrow," Pande said. Apart from AICC general secretaries Venugopal and Pande, the party had also sent four AICC secretaries to Jaipur. They are all expected to meet Gandhi in Delhi. Both Pilot and Gehlot would remain in Jaipur, party leaders said. "A delegation of the party met the Governor. We have the majority and will form the government," Pande said. Leader of opposition Rameshwar Dudi, who lost election on Nokha seat, was also part of the delegation. "The party observer held discussions with the MLAs and the name of the chief minister will be decided at the level of the party president Rahul Gandhi by tomorrow evening," Dudi told reporters outside Raj Bhawan. Congress won 99 out of the 199 seats that went to the polls on December 7. Its alliance partner Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) also bagged a seat, taking the combined tally to 100 needed to form the government. The party is also looking for support from independent candidates and non-BJP parties. Pande said several other MLAs have also extended support to the Congress in writing and the final list will be handed over to the Governor later. The Bharatiya Janata Party won 73 seats. Resolution unanimous that Rahul will decide Meanwhile, newly-elected Congress MLAs in Madhya Pradesh Wednesday asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to nominate the new legislature party leader. At a meeting here in the evening, they unanimously passed a resolution authorising Gandhi to name the CLP leader. "The resolution was moved by senior MLA Arif Aqueel and seconded by other MLAs. They passed it unanimously, authorising the Congress president to nominate the legislature party leader," state Congress media cell chairperson, Shobha Oza told reporters. The meeting lasted for about two hours, she said. Senior Congress leaders A K Antony and Bhanwar Jitendra Singh attended the meeting as the central observers. Oza said Gandhi will be conveyed the decision of the newly-elected MLAs, after which he will name the CLP leader. The observers are also talking to the MLAs to seek their views, she said. All the four independent MLAs, elected in the November 28 poll, were also present in the meeting, she said. The Congress Wednesday emerged as the single largest party in the state by winning 114 seats, two short of a simple majority of 116 in 230-member house and claimed that it has the support of 121 members. BSP supremo Mayawati Wednesday morning extended support of her party to the Congress. Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhhan Wednesday tendered his resignation to Governor Anandiben Patel, who met a Congress delegation here at noon after the party leaders wrote to her last night, seeking a chance to form the new government in the central Indian state.

New Congress CMs? Party MLAs say Rahul will decide

Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Kamal Nath wrote to Governor Anandiben Patel late on Tuesday night, staking claim to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/assembly-election-results-no-party-gets-clear-mandate-in-madhya-pradesh-polls-183370">form the government </a>in the state, a party spokesperson said.

The party claimed it has the support of the independent candidates also.

"The Congress party has emerged as the single largest party with a majority support. All the independents have in addition assured support to the Congress party," the letter said.

"As the president of Pradesh Congress Committee, I seek an appointment with your Excellency late tonight, as soon as the results are officially declared along with my senior leaders to apprise you and seek your permission to form the government in the state of Madhya Pradesh," Nath said in the letter.

Congress party has emerged the largest party in the state with 114 seats, which is two short of the majority.

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has won 109 seats. The Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) has won two seats.&nbsp;

The Samajwadi Party (SP) has won one seat and Independent candidates have won four.

The BJP gave a close fight to Congress despite a strong anti-incumbency against Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who was looking for a record fourth term.&nbsp;

Sensing victory, the Congress has begun contacting leaders of small parties and also independents for mustering a simple majority, party sources said on Tuesday.

Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Kamal Nath wrote to Governor Anandiben Patel late on Tuesday night, staking claim to form the government in the state, a party spokesperson said.

Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Kamal Nath wrote to Governor Anandiben Patel late on Tuesday night, staking claim to form the government in the state, a party spokesperson said. The party claimed it has the support of the independent candidates also. "The Congress party has emerged as the single largest party with a majority support. All the independents have in addition assured support to the Congress party," the letter said. "As the president of Pradesh Congress Committee, I seek an appointment with your Excellency late tonight, as soon as the results are officially declared along with my senior leaders to apprise you and seek your permission to form the government in the state of Madhya Pradesh," Nath said in the letter. Congress party has emerged the largest party in the state with 114 seats, which is two short of the majority. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has won 109 seats. The Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) has won two seats. The Samajwadi Party (SP) has won one seat and Independent candidates have won four. The BJP gave a close fight to Congress despite a strong anti-incumbency against Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who was looking for a record fourth term. Sensing victory, the Congress has begun contacting leaders of small parties and also independents for mustering a simple majority, party sources said on Tuesday.

Congress stakes claim to form govt in Madhya Pradesh, Kamal Nath writes to governor

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/canada-court-grants-conditional-bail-to-huaweis-meng-wanzhou-183357">Canada court grants conditional bail to Huawei's Meng Wanzhou</a>

A Canadian court granted bail to Huawei's Meng Wanzhou who was held by authorities for the past one week after US officials accused the top executive of misleading banks about transactions linked to Iran.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/assembly-election-results-no-party-gets-clear-mandate-in-madhya-pradesh-polls-183370">Assembly election results: No party gets clear mandate in Madhya Pradesh polls</a>

Counting for all seats in Madhya Pradesh has got over on Wednesday morning and the Congress has emerged as the single-largest party.

No party has got a clear mandate to form government yet.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/gunman-kills-four-in-french-christmas-market-and-flees-183355">Four killed and 11 wounded in shooting near Christmas market in France's Strasbourg; gunman escapes</a>

A gunman on a security watchlist killed at least four people and wounded at least 11 others near the picturesque Christmas market in the historic French city of Strasbourg on Tuesday evening before fleeing.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/google-has-no-plans-to-launch-search-engine-in-china-sunder-pichai-183356">Google has no plans to launch </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/google-has-no-plans-to-launch-search-engine-in-china-sunder-pichai-183356">search</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/google-has-no-plans-to-launch-search-engine-in-china-sunder-pichai-183356"> engine in China: CEO Pichai to US panel</a>

Google currently has no plans to launch a search engine in China, its Indian-American CEO Sundar Pichai told lawmakers Tuesday as he dodged a series of questions from lawmakers who expressed concern over such a reported move by the internet giant.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/mohamed-salah-gives-liverpool-a-1-0-win-over-napoli-qualifies-for-champions-leagues-last-16-183363">Champions League: Salah's strike sinks Napoli; Liverpool reach last 16</a>

Mohamed Salah's delightful first-half strike gave Liverpool a 1-0 win over Napoli that sent them into the Champions League's last 16 and the Italian side crashing out at a tension-filled Anfield on Tuesday.

Canada court grants conditional bail to Huawei's Meng Wanzhou A Canadian court granted bail to Huawei's Meng Wanzhou who was held by authorities for the past one week after US officials accused the top executive of misleading banks about transactions linked to Iran.

Canada court grants conditional bail to Huawei's Meng Wanzhou A Canadian court granted bail to Huawei's Meng Wanzhou who was held by authorities for the past one week after US officials accused the top executive of misleading banks about transactions linked to Iran. Assembly election results: No party gets clear mandate in Madhya Pradesh polls Counting for all seats in Madhya Pradesh has got over on Wednesday morning and the Congress has emerged as the single-largest party. No party has got a clear mandate to form government yet. Four killed and 11 wounded in shooting near Christmas market in France's Strasbourg; gunman escapes A gunman on a security watchlist killed at least four people and wounded at least 11 others near the picturesque Christmas market in the historic French city of Strasbourg on Tuesday evening before fleeing. Google has no plans to launch search engine in China: CEO Pichai to US panel Google currently has no plans to launch a search engine in China, its Indian-American CEO Sundar Pichai told lawmakers Tuesday as he dodged a series of questions from lawmakers who expressed concern over such a reported move by the internet giant. Champions League: Salah's strike sinks Napoli; Liverpool reach last 16 Mohamed Salah's delightful first-half strike gave Liverpool a 1-0 win over Napoli that sent them into the Champions League's last 16 and the Italian side crashing out at a tension-filled Anfield on Tuesday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Congress has the support of 121 MLAs in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly, party spokesperson Narendra Saluja claimed Wednesday.

The Congress won 114 seats in the state polls but was two short of the simple majority mark of 116 in the 230-member Assembly.

"With the support of BSP's two, SP's one and four independent candidates, the Congress' tally is 121 in the 230-member Madhya Pradesh Assembly,"

Saluja told reporters at the Raj Bhawan after Congress leaders met Governor Anandiben Patel.

Senior Congress leaders, including Kamal Nath, Jyotiraditya Scindia, Digvijay Singh, Arun Yadav and Vivek Tankha, met the governor to stake claim to form the government in the state.

"The Congress has emerged as the single largest party with majority support. The BSP, the SP and Independents have assured their support in favour of the Congress," Nath, the state Congress chief, said in a letter to the governor.

He further requested the governor in the letter to call the Congress to form the government in the state.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which ruled the state for 15 years, got 109 seats in the elections.

However, it edged ahead of the Congress in the vote share by a slender margin, bagging 41 per cent of the total votes polled, while the Congress got 40.9 per cent.

BJP's Shivraj Singh Chouhan was the state's longest-serving chief minister since 2005.

The Congress has the support of 121 MLAs in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly, party spokesperson Narendra Saluja claimed Wednesday. The Congress won 114 seats in the state polls but was two short of the simple majority mark of 116 in the 230-member Assembly.

The Congress has the support of 121 MLAs in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly, party spokesperson Narendra Saluja claimed Wednesday. The Congress won 114 seats in the state polls but was two short of the simple majority mark of 116 in the 230-member Assembly. "With the support of BSP's two, SP's one and four independent candidates, the Congress' tally is 121 in the 230-member Madhya Pradesh Assembly," Saluja told reporters at the Raj Bhawan after Congress leaders met Governor Anandiben Patel. Senior Congress leaders, including Kamal Nath, Jyotiraditya Scindia, Digvijay Singh, Arun Yadav and Vivek Tankha, met the governor to stake claim to form the government in the state. "The Congress has emerged as the single largest party with majority support. The BSP, the SP and Independents have assured their support in favour of the Congress," Nath, the state Congress chief, said in a letter to the governor. He further requested the governor in the letter to call the Congress to form the government in the state. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which ruled the state for 15 years, got 109 seats in the elections. However, it edged ahead of the Congress in the vote share by a slender margin, bagging 41 per cent of the total votes polled, while the Congress got 40.9 per cent. BJP's Shivraj Singh Chouhan was the state's longest-serving chief minister since 2005.

Congress claims support of 121 MLAs in Madhya Pradesh

Fate of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Chouhan's bid for his fourth term in office will be known on Tuesday with counting of votes for the state's 230 assembly seats scheduled to begin at 8 am, while the challenger Congress expects to return to power after a 15-year gap.

Exit polls have predicted a close race between the BJP and the Congress, though leaders from both parties have routinely claimed their respective victories.

While Chouhan has called himself the "biggest surveyor" in claiming a win for the BJP, senior Congress leader Kamal Nath said his party would get at least 140 seats to oust the saffron party and form a majority government.

The state went to polls on November 28 with a voter turnout of about 75 per cent. As many as 2,899 candidates are in fray for 230 seats.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer V L Kantha Rao told reporters that counting would begin at 8 AM with the postal ballots at 51 centres across the state.

"EVMs (Electronic Voting Machines) would be taken up for counting at 8.30 AM. Counting of postal ballots would continue simultaneously," he said.

Rao said 15,000 employees have been drafted for the counting process which will be monitored through 1200 CCTV cameras installed at 51 centres across the state.

The CEO said the maximum rounds of counting -- 32 in total -- would take place in the Indore-5 assembly segment due to the highest number of booths there.

The lowest number of counting rounds (15) would be held in Kotma seat in Anuppur district, he added.

Indore-5 seat is currently held by the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) while the Congress represents Kotma constituency.

Rao further said the results of every round would be declared separately before the start of the subsequent rounds.

Though all exit polls predicted a slide in the BJP's fortunes, some of them have gone to the extent of giving a clear majority to the Congress.&nbsp;

In 2013 elections, the BJP had won 165 of total 230 seats, followed by the Congress (58), BSP (4) and Independents 3.

The campaign for the polls was a high-decibel one with star campaigners like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi mounting vitriolic attacks in their respective speeches.

The prime minister had addressed ten public meetings across all regions of the state while BJP president Amit Shah held 26 public meetings and three road shows, said state BJP spokesman Rajnish Agrawal.

Chief Minister Chouhan addressed 158 public meetings between October 31 and November 25.

Before that from July till October, Chouhan travelled to 187 assembly constituencies as part of his public outreach campaign titled "Jan Ashirwad Yatra". 
On the other hand, Rahul Gandhi addressed 22 public rallies and took part in about a dozen road shows.

"State unit Congress president Kamal Nath addressed over 60 public meetings during this period", the state Congress spokesperson Bhupendra Gupta said.

State Congress Campaign Committee chairman Jyotiraditya Scindia addressed 110 public meetings and participated in 12 road shows in 15 days preceding polling.

Scindia had earlier also held "Parivartan" rallies across 45 districts.

The chief minister, in office since 2005, is himself seeking re-election from Budhni in Sehore district. He is pitted against Congress candidate Arun Yadav, a former minister.

Of the 5.04-crore registered voters, 3.78-crores (75.05 per cent) had exercised their franchise.

The BJP fielded candidates for all 230 seats while the Congress fielded 229 nominees and left one seat (Jatara in Tikamgarh district) for its ally Loktantrik Janata Dal (LJD) of Sharad Yadav.

Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) fielded 227 candidates, while the Samajwadi Party (SP) contested 51 seats.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) also fielded 208 candidates in its maiden elections in Madhya Pradesh.

A total of 1,094 candidates contested as independents.

During campaigning, the Congress, which has been out of power since 2003, tried to build a narrative against the BJP by raising issues like agrarian distress, the Vyapam scam and the anti-incumbency factor.

Rahul Gandhi had announced that Congress would waive crop loans of farmers within ten days of coming to power.

The BJP had ruled out anti-incumbency and mainly banked on the "development works" carried out by the chief minister in the last 15 years.&nbsp;

Fate of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Chouhan's bid for his fourth term in office will be known on Tuesday with counting of votes for the state's 230 assembly seats scheduled to begin at 8 am, while the challenger Congress expects to return to power after a 15-year gap.

Fate of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Chouhan's bid for his fourth term in office will be known on Tuesday with counting of votes for the state's 230 assembly seats scheduled to begin at 8 am, while the challenger Congress expects to return to power after a 15-year gap. Exit polls have predicted a close race between the BJP and the Congress, though leaders from both parties have routinely claimed their respective victories. While Chouhan has called himself the "biggest surveyor" in claiming a win for the BJP, senior Congress leader Kamal Nath said his party would get at least 140 seats to oust the saffron party and form a majority government. The state went to polls on November 28 with a voter turnout of about 75 per cent. As many as 2,899 candidates are in fray for 230 seats. Madhya Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer V L Kantha Rao told reporters that counting would begin at 8 AM with the postal ballots at 51 centres across the state. "EVMs (Electronic Voting Machines) would be taken up for counting at 8.30 AM. Counting of postal ballots would continue simultaneously," he said. Rao said 15,000 employees have been drafted for the counting process which will be monitored through 1200 CCTV cameras installed at 51 centres across the state. The CEO said the maximum rounds of counting -- 32 in total -- would take place in the Indore-5 assembly segment due to the highest number of booths there. The lowest number of counting rounds (15) would be held in Kotma seat in Anuppur district, he added. Indore-5 seat is currently held by the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) while the Congress represents Kotma constituency. Rao further said the results of every round would be declared separately before the start of the subsequent rounds. Though all exit polls predicted a slide in the BJP's fortunes, some of them have gone to the extent of giving a clear majority to the Congress. In 2013 elections, the BJP had won 165 of total 230 seats, followed by the Congress (58), BSP (4) and Independents 3. The campaign for the polls was a high-decibel one with star campaigners like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi mounting vitriolic attacks in their respective speeches. The prime minister had addressed ten public meetings across all regions of the state while BJP president Amit Shah held 26 public meetings and three road shows, said state BJP spokesman Rajnish Agrawal. Chief Minister Chouhan addressed 158 public meetings between October 31 and November 25. Before that from July till October, Chouhan travelled to 187 assembly constituencies as part of his public outreach campaign titled "Jan Ashirwad Yatra". On the other hand, Rahul Gandhi addressed 22 public rallies and took part in about a dozen road shows. "State unit Congress president Kamal Nath addressed over 60 public meetings during this period", the state Congress spokesperson Bhupendra Gupta said. State Congress Campaign Committee chairman Jyotiraditya Scindia addressed 110 public meetings and participated in 12 road shows in 15 days preceding polling. Scindia had earlier also held "Parivartan" rallies across 45 districts. The chief minister, in office since 2005, is himself seeking re-election from Budhni in Sehore district. He is pitted against Congress candidate Arun Yadav, a former minister. Of the 5.04-crore registered voters, 3.78-crores (75.05 per cent) had exercised their franchise. The BJP fielded candidates for all 230 seats while the Congress fielded 229 nominees and left one seat (Jatara in Tikamgarh district) for its ally Loktantrik Janata Dal (LJD) of Sharad Yadav. Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) fielded 227 candidates, while the Samajwadi Party (SP) contested 51 seats. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) also fielded 208 candidates in its maiden elections in Madhya Pradesh. A total of 1,094 candidates contested as independents. During campaigning, the Congress, which has been out of power since 2003, tried to build a narrative against the BJP by raising issues like agrarian distress, the Vyapam scam and the anti-incumbency factor. Rahul Gandhi had announced that Congress would waive crop loans of farmers within ten days of coming to power. The BJP had ruled out anti-incumbency and mainly banked on the "development works" carried out by the chief minister in the last 15 years.

MP Assembly polls: Counting of votes to begin at 8am; CEO says all arrangements in place

The results of the electoral battle in five states will be declared on Tuesday. According to reports, exit polls for the recently concluded assembly elections have predicted a tight finish between the ruling BJP and the Congress in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh and a win for the opposition party in Rajasthan.

Experts bill the 5-state assembly elections as semi-finals before the 2019 Lok Sabha polls -- a major test for the two biggest political parties in the country, the BJP and the Congress.&nbsp;

The exit polls have also predicted a clean-sweep for KC Rao's TRS in Telangana, whereas the Mizo National Front is predicted to have an edge in Mizoram's electoral battle, throwing up a hung assembly.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-exit-polls-say-in-5-state-elections-182303">What exit polls say in 5 state elections</a>

Reports suggest the trends to begin pouring in as early as 8am. By noon, the larger picture of the results in the poll-bound states is likely to emerge.&nbsp;

Tuesday's results are set to test the hold of the incumbent governments in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Mizoram and Telangana and examine the potency of the Opposition's challenge.

The BJP holds power in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan at present, however, the exit polls hint at the Congress putting up a tough fight to change the game in its favour in the states with incumbent BJP governments.

These assembly elections are being seen as crucial for the BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha elections as it is in power in three of these states.

The saffron party is trying for a fourth term in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh and is seeking to retain power in Rajasthan. The three states also played a significant role for the BJP in the 2014 general elections, when it had won 62 out of the 65 Lok Sabha seats in these three states.

The elections are also significant for Congress, which is out to challenge the BJP's rule in three states and protect its last bastion in the North-East, where Mizoram remains the only state not (rpt) not under the rule of BJP-led NDA. The eight North-East states together have 25 Lok Sabha seats.

In the multi-phase polling, Chhattisgarh voted on November 12 (18 seats) and November 20 (72 seats); Madhya Pradesh (230 seats) and Mizoram (40 seats) on November 28; and Rajasthan (199 seats) and Telangana (119 seats) on December 7.

(With inputs from PTI)

The results of the electoral battle in five states will be declared on Tuesday. According to reports, exit polls for the recently concluded assembly elections have predicted a tight finish between the ruling BJP and the Congress in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh and a win for the opposition party in Rajasthan.

The results of the electoral battle in five states will be declared on Tuesday. According to reports, exit polls for the recently concluded assembly elections have predicted a tight finish between the ruling BJP and the Congress in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh and a win for the opposition party in Rajasthan. Experts bill the 5-state assembly elections as semi-finals before the 2019 Lok Sabha polls -- a major test for the two biggest political parties in the country, the BJP and the Congress. The exit polls have also predicted a clean-sweep for KC Rao's TRS in Telangana, whereas the Mizo National Front is predicted to have an edge in Mizoram's electoral battle, throwing up a hung assembly. Also read: What exit polls say in 5 state elections Reports suggest the trends to begin pouring in as early as 8am. By noon, the larger picture of the results in the poll-bound states is likely to emerge. Tuesday's results are set to test the hold of the incumbent governments in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Mizoram and Telangana and examine the potency of the Opposition's challenge. The BJP holds power in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan at present, however, the exit polls hint at the Congress putting up a tough fight to change the game in its favour in the states with incumbent BJP governments. These assembly elections are being seen as crucial for the BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha elections as it is in power in three of these states. The saffron party is trying for a fourth term in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh and is seeking to retain power in Rajasthan. The three states also played a significant role for the BJP in the 2014 general elections, when it had won 62 out of the 65 Lok Sabha seats in these three states. The elections are also significant for Congress, which is out to challenge the BJP's rule in three states and protect its last bastion in the North-East, where Mizoram remains the only state not (rpt) not under the rule of BJP-led NDA. The eight North-East states together have 25 Lok Sabha seats. In the multi-phase polling, Chhattisgarh voted on November 12 (18 seats) and November 20 (72 seats); Madhya Pradesh (230 seats) and Mizoram (40 seats) on November 28; and Rajasthan (199 seats) and Telangana (119 seats) on December 7. (With inputs from PTI)

Billed as semi-finals to 2019 Lok Sabha polls, election results in five states due on Tuesday

Madhya Pradesh’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders on Saturday held a meeting at the party headquarter in Bhopal, which saw incumbent chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, state President Rakesh Singh, state Home Minister Bhupendra Singh and BJP MP Manohar Untwal in attendance.&nbsp;

Speaking to the media after the meeting, a leader of the party claimed that they were confident of winning the elections and forming the government in the state for the fourth consecutive time.

“We reviewed the situation in the state and discussed the future course of events. We are going to form the government on December 11, so we discussed how the event of oath taking ceremony is going to be like. The finalisation of the date has not been done as yet, we have left that decision on the chief minister so that he finds a suitable auspicious time for the same. But I am certain that we are forming the government,” he told media here.

Echoing a similar stance, Rakesh Singh added: “It is sure that we are making the government under the leadership of Shivraj Singh Chouhan for the fourth time."

Chouhan, too, on Saturday said that he is confident of his party’s win in the recently-held Assembly elections.&nbsp;

“There cannot be a surveyor bigger than me, someone, who is among the people day in and day out. Therefore, I am saying this confidently that the Bharatiya Janata Party will form the government. This is important for everyone – poor, farmers, children and women,” Chouhan told media here.

The state went for voting on November 28, and the results will be announced on December 11. As many as 2,899 candidates were in the fray including 250 women and five third gender candidates.

Madhya Pradesh’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders on Saturday held a meeting at the party headquarter in Bhopal, which saw incumbent chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, state President Rakesh Singh, state Home Minister Bhupendra Singh and BJP MP Manohar Untwal in attendance.

Madhya Pradesh’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders on Saturday held a meeting at the party headquarter in Bhopal, which saw incumbent chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, state President Rakesh Singh, state Home Minister Bhupendra Singh and BJP MP Manohar Untwal in attendance. Speaking to the media after the meeting, a leader of the party claimed that they were confident of winning the elections and forming the government in the state for the fourth consecutive time. “We reviewed the situation in the state and discussed the future course of events. We are going to form the government on December 11, so we discussed how the event of oath taking ceremony is going to be like. The finalisation of the date has not been done as yet, we have left that decision on the chief minister so that he finds a suitable auspicious time for the same. But I am certain that we are forming the government,” he told media here. Echoing a similar stance, Rakesh Singh added: “It is sure that we are making the government under the leadership of Shivraj Singh Chouhan for the fourth time." Chouhan, too, on Saturday said that he is confident of his party’s win in the recently-held Assembly elections. “There cannot be a surveyor bigger than me, someone, who is among the people day in and day out. Therefore, I am saying this confidently that the Bharatiya Janata Party will form the government. This is important for everyone – poor, farmers, children and women,” Chouhan told media here. The state went for voting on November 28, and the results will be announced on December 11. As many as 2,899 candidates were in the fray including 250 women and five third gender candidates.

Madhya Pradesh: BJP confident of party’s fourth term in power

Incumbent Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday expressed confidence of Bharatiya Janata Party winning the state assembly elections.

Speaking at Madhya Pradesh's Umaria, Chouhan stated that there could not be a biggest surveyor than him and therefore he is certain of the saffron party winning the elections.&nbsp;

"There cannot be a surveyor bigger than me, someone who is among the people day in and day out. Therefore I am saying this confidently that BJP will form the govt. This is important for people, poor, farmers, children and women," Chouhan noted.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-will-get-comfortable-majority-in-madhya-pradesh-chouhan-181476">Chouhan, earlier this week</a> exuded confidence that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would get a comfortable majority in the recently-concluded Assembly elections in the state.

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Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan in Umaria, MP: There cannot be a surveyor bigger than me, someone who is among the people day in and day out. Therefore I am saying this confidently that BJP will form the govt. This is important for people, poor, farmers, children &amp; women. <a href="https://t.co/0RdCPXriQl">pic.twitter.com/0RdCPXriQl</a>
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"We will get a good majority. It's not correct to say a number. I don't lie. You will see on (December) 11th (counting day). The BJP will get a comfortable majority," Chouhan noted.

Madhya Pradesh went to polls on November 28. The final result of the electoral battle will be made public after the counting of votes concludes on December 11.&nbsp;

Incumbent Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday expressed confidence of Bharatiya Janata Party winning the state assembly elections. Speaking at Madhya Pradesh's Umaria, Chouhan stated that there could not be a biggest surveyor than him and therefore he is certain of the saffron party winning the elections.

Incumbent Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday expressed confidence of Bharatiya Janata Party winning the state assembly elections. Speaking at Madhya Pradesh's Umaria, Chouhan stated that there could not be a biggest surveyor than him and therefore he is certain of the saffron party winning the elections. "There cannot be a surveyor bigger than me, someone who is among the people day in and day out. Therefore I am saying this confidently that BJP will form the govt. This is important for people, poor, farmers, children and women," Chouhan noted. Chouhan, earlier this week exuded confidence that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would get a comfortable majority in the recently-concluded Assembly elections in the state. Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan in Umaria, MP: There cannot be a surveyor bigger than me, someone who is among the people day in and day out. Therefore I am saying this confidently that BJP will form the govt. This is important for people, poor, farmers, children & women. pic.twitter.com/0RdCPXriQl — ANI (@ANI) December 8, 2018 × "We will get a good majority. It's not correct to say a number. I don't lie. You will see on (December) 11th (counting day). The BJP will get a comfortable majority," Chouhan noted. Madhya Pradesh went to polls on November 28. The final result of the electoral battle will be made public after the counting of votes concludes on December 11.

Saying this confidently that BJP will form government in MP: Shivraj Singh Chouhan 

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan Wednesday said the Congress is running a campaign of EVM tampering as it has sensed defeat in the assembly polls and asserted there is no reason to doubt the integrity of the Election Commission (EC).

The main opposition party has repeatedly raised concerns over the security of EVMs (Electronic Voting Machines) inside strongrooms and their handling during the counting process in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

Its leaders have also taken up the issue with the EC.

Chouhan said the Congress' concerns have no ground and claimed the EC has been harsher with the BJP.

"The Congress has been raising baseless hue and cry (over EVM security issue). On the day of voting (November 28) Jyotiraditya ji (Congress campaign committee chief Jyotiraditya Scindia) wrote letter to EC.

"Congress (is) running a campaign of EVM tempering. There is no reason to doubt EC, which is a constitutional body," Chouhan told reporters here.

The chief minister said Rahul Gandhi-led party is not ready to trust anyone.

"A desperate Congress (is) trying to find excuse for its (imminent) defeat. For Congress, everybody including EC, officials, employees and police, is dishonest. Whom Congress will trust? It is trying to create an atmosphere of doubt," he said.

"On the contrary, the EC was more stern against the BJP. At times, it has acted inhumanly while implementing the model code of conduct," the CM said, claiming that the EC even did not allow him to attend last rites of a friend.

"My friend and (BJP) worker Raghuvir Dangi died in Vidisha on November 27 (a day before voting in MP). I wanted to go in his last rites, but I was not given the permission by the EC," Chouhan said.

The CM said tampering EVMs is not a child's play.

"There is media...People are aware nobody can tamper with (an) EVM. Ye koi gudde-gudiya ka khel hai, koi bhi bula kar chhedchhad kar dega? (It is not a child's play).

This is technically impossible," he said.

About the number of assembly seats the BJP expects to win in Madhya Pradesh, Chouhan, seeking a straight fourth term in office, said the ruling party will get "spectacular" majority.

Chouhan also said the BJP will retain Rajasthan (where voting is due on December 7). He had addressed several election rallies there.

Asked about the drop in prices of onion and garlic, Chouhan said the affected farmers will be compensated, but he is not able to take a decision in this regard as the model code of conduct is in force.

Asked about the Cabinet meeting held earlier in the day, the CM said some routine issues were discussed.

Meanwhile, senior Congress leader Ajay Singh sought to know why Chouhan and the BJP were maintaining "silence" over the "irregularities" occurred during the November 28 polling.

"About 4,000 machines, including EVMs and VVPATs, were changed during the polling. EVMs were deposited at some places as late as 48 hours. CCTVs installed for the security of strongrooms not worked for hours at several places," he claimed.

"Why Chouhan and his party didn't come up with complaints on this issue," the Leader of Opposition in the assembly asked.

Singh alleged strongrooms housing EVMs were not sealed properly at several places.

The counting of votes for Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh elections will take place on December 11.&nbsp;

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan Wednesday said the Congress is running a campaign of EVM tampering as it has sensed defeat in the assembly polls and asserted there is no reason to doubt the integrity of the Election Commission (EC).

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan Wednesday said the Congress is running a campaign of EVM tampering as it has sensed defeat in the assembly polls and asserted there is no reason to doubt the integrity of the Election Commission (EC). The main opposition party has repeatedly raised concerns over the security of EVMs (Electronic Voting Machines) inside strongrooms and their handling during the counting process in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. Its leaders have also taken up the issue with the EC. Chouhan said the Congress' concerns have no ground and claimed the EC has been harsher with the BJP. "The Congress has been raising baseless hue and cry (over EVM security issue). On the day of voting (November 28) Jyotiraditya ji (Congress campaign committee chief Jyotiraditya Scindia) wrote letter to EC. "Congress (is) running a campaign of EVM tempering. There is no reason to doubt EC, which is a constitutional body," Chouhan told reporters here. The chief minister said Rahul Gandhi-led party is not ready to trust anyone. "A desperate Congress (is) trying to find excuse for its (imminent) defeat. For Congress, everybody including EC, officials, employees and police, is dishonest. Whom Congress will trust? It is trying to create an atmosphere of doubt," he said. "On the contrary, the EC was more stern against the BJP. At times, it has acted inhumanly while implementing the model code of conduct," the CM said, claiming that the EC even did not allow him to attend last rites of a friend. "My friend and (BJP) worker Raghuvir Dangi died in Vidisha on November 27 (a day before voting in MP). I wanted to go in his last rites, but I was not given the permission by the EC," Chouhan said. The CM said tampering EVMs is not a child's play. "There is media...People are aware nobody can tamper with (an) EVM. Ye koi gudde-gudiya ka khel hai, koi bhi bula kar chhedchhad kar dega? (It is not a child's play). This is technically impossible," he said. About the number of assembly seats the BJP expects to win in Madhya Pradesh, Chouhan, seeking a straight fourth term in office, said the ruling party will get "spectacular" majority. Chouhan also said the BJP will retain Rajasthan (where voting is due on December 7). He had addressed several election rallies there. Asked about the drop in prices of onion and garlic, Chouhan said the affected farmers will be compensated, but he is not able to take a decision in this regard as the model code of conduct is in force. Asked about the Cabinet meeting held earlier in the day, the CM said some routine issues were discussed. Meanwhile, senior Congress leader Ajay Singh sought to know why Chouhan and the BJP were maintaining "silence" over the "irregularities" occurred during the November 28 polling. "About 4,000 machines, including EVMs and VVPATs, were changed during the polling. EVMs were deposited at some places as late as 48 hours. CCTVs installed for the security of strongrooms not worked for hours at several places," he claimed. "Why Chouhan and his party didn't come up with complaints on this issue," the Leader of Opposition in the assembly asked. Singh alleged strongrooms housing EVMs were not sealed properly at several places. The counting of votes for Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh elections will take place on December 11.

Sensing poll rout, Cong raising EVM tampering issue: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

Few Congress and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) workers on Friday protested outside the strong room in Satna after a viral video showed an unknown person taking a carton inside the highly protected area.

The workers claimed that Bharatiya Janata Party-led state government was trying to tamper the EVMs.

As part of the protest, the supporters even deflated the vehicles of the district administration. BSP's Pushkar Singh and Congress'&nbsp;Siddharth Kushwaha held the protest demanding an action against the Shivraj Singh Chouhan-led Madhya Pradesh government.

However, the district administration has denied all the charges and stated that the EVMs were under the supervision of security personnel.

The people of Madhya Pradesh went for voting on November 28, and the results will be announced on December 11.

 
&nbsp;

Few Congress and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) workers on Friday protested outside the strong room in Satna after a viral video showed an unknown person taking a carton inside the highly protected area.

Few Congress and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) workers on Friday protested outside the strong room in Satna after a viral video showed an unknown person taking a carton inside the highly protected area. The workers claimed that Bharatiya Janata Party-led state government was trying to tamper the EVMs. As part of the protest, the supporters even deflated the vehicles of the district administration. BSP's Pushkar Singh and Congress' Siddharth Kushwaha held the protest demanding an action against the Shivraj Singh Chouhan-led Madhya Pradesh government. However, the district administration has denied all the charges and stated that the EVMs were under the supervision of security personnel. The people of Madhya Pradesh went for voting on November 28, and the results will be announced on December 11.

MP: Congress, BSP protestors claim EVM tampering in Satna

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Friday expressed hope of forming a government in the state with a "stunning majority." His comments came after he finished offering prayers at the Mahakal Temple in Madhya Pradesh on Friday.

"Bharatiya Janata Party will form the government in Madhya Pradesh with a stunning majority," Chouhan told the media.

The incumbent chief minister, on the day of polling in the state, exuded confidence. After casting his vote, Chouhan noted that he has set a target of bagging 200 seats, for which lakhs of volunteers are working day and night.

"I am 100 per cent sure that BJP will come to power for the fourth time and will have an absolute majority. We have set a target of 200 seats this time and lakhs of volunteers are working to achieve this goal," he told news agency ANI.&nbsp;

The state went to polls on November 28, the results will be announced on December 11. As many as 2,899 candidates were in the fray.&nbsp;

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Friday expressed hope of forming a government in the state with a "stunning majority." His comments came after he finished offering prayers at the Mahakal Temple in Madhya Pradesh on Friday.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Friday expressed hope of forming a government in the state with a "stunning majority." His comments came after he finished offering prayers at the Mahakal Temple in Madhya Pradesh on Friday. "Bharatiya Janata Party will form the government in Madhya Pradesh with a stunning majority," Chouhan told the media. The incumbent chief minister, on the day of polling in the state, exuded confidence. After casting his vote, Chouhan noted that he has set a target of bagging 200 seats, for which lakhs of volunteers are working day and night. "I am 100 per cent sure that BJP will come to power for the fourth time and will have an absolute majority. We have set a target of 200 seats this time and lakhs of volunteers are working to achieve this goal," he told news agency ANI. The state went to polls on November 28, the results will be announced on December 11. As many as 2,899 candidates were in the fray.

BJP will form government in MP with stunning majority: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram went to the polls Wednesday morning.&nbsp;

Amid tight security, polling for Mizoram's 40-member <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mizoram-polls-litmus-test-for-cm-thanhawla-bjp-looks-to-uproot-congress-from-last-bastion-in-northeast-179767">legislative assembly</a>&nbsp;began at 7 am. Madhya Pradesh went to the polls an hour later at 8 am, apart from the Maoist-affected Balaghat district where polling again began at 7 am. Starting an hour earlier will also polling to end before it gets dark.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mizoram-polls-litmus-test-for-cm-thanhawla-bjp-looks-to-uproot-congress-from-last-bastion-in-northeast-179767">Mizoram</a> is one of three states currently under Congress rule, while the BJP has been in power in Madhya&nbsp;Pradesh for the last 15 years. The BJP has never formed a government in Mizoram.

The Congress and the MNF (Mizoram's second party) are contesting all 40 constituencies in the state, while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is fighting in 39 seats.

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Voting for 40 constituencies in Mizoram begins. Polling to conclude at 4 pm. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MizoramElections?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MizoramElections</a> <a href="https://t.co/7wHPcVQLsL">pic.twitter.com/7wHPcVQLsL</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1067592238446858240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The battle for power in Madhya Pradesh's 230 seats is mainly between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress. The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and the Samajwadi Party (SP) are also in the fray.&nbsp;

The BJP has fielded candidates in all 230 seats, while the Congress is contesting 229 seats.

In the last polls, of the 230 seats, the BJP won 165, the Congress 58, the BSP four, and Independents three.&nbsp;

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Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan prays on the banks of Narmada river, in Budhni. Voting in the state is underway. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MadhyaPradeshElections2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MadhyaPradeshElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/Hh9hjNds8Y">pic.twitter.com/Hh9hjNds8Y</a>
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Congress leader Kamal Nath offers prayers at a Hanuman temple in Chhindwara <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MadhyaPradeshElections2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MadhyaPradeshElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/tjdOwNrwtJ">pic.twitter.com/tjdOwNrwtJ</a>
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I have full faith in the people of Madhya Pradesh, they are simple and innocent people who have been robbed for a long time by BJP: Kamal Nath, Congress <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MadhyaPradeshElections2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MadhyaPradeshElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/t7J1mxan9u">pic.twitter.com/t7J1mxan9u</a>
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In the previous election in 2013 in Mizoram, the Congress had fielded 40 candidates while it won 34 seats, whereas Mizo National Front (MNF) secured only five seats after contesting 31 seats.

Mizoram People's Conference (MPC) had contested on eight seats but it managed to bag only one.

The elections are being fought between&nbsp;209 candidates.

The Congress party, which has been in power in Mizoram since 2008, is eyeing a third consecutive term in the state.

Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla is contesting from two seats - Serchhip and Champhai South. In Serchhip, Thanhawla will be contesting against Zoram People`s Movement`s (ZPM) chief ministerial candidate Lalduhoma, Mizo National Front (MNF) nominee C Lalramzauva and People`s Representation for Identity and Status of Mizoram (PRISM) party chief Vanlalruata among others.

In the Champhai South, the incumbent Chief Minister would contest against MNF`s T J Lalnuntluanga and ZPM`s C Lalremliana.

Preparations have also been made&nbsp;for 12,026 Bru refugees who are lodged in six relief camps of Tripura to cast their votes at Kanhmun village in Mamit district where 15 temporary polling stations have been set up.

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Mizoram: Visuals from a polling station in Zarkawt, Aizawl. Polling for the 40 constituencies in the state will begin at 7 am. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MizoramElections?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MizoramElections</a> <a href="https://t.co/BnKJsWf36E">pic.twitter.com/BnKJsWf36E</a>
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An elderly woman after casting her vote at a polling station in Kanhmun <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MizoramElections?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MizoramElections</a> <a href="https://t.co/95FxeIAyVb">pic.twitter.com/95FxeIAyVb</a>
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The results will be announced on December 11.

(With inputs from agencies)

Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram went to the polls Wednesday morning. Amid tight security, polling for Mizoram's 40-member legislative assembly began at 7 am. Madhya Pradesh went to the polls an hour later at 8 am, apart from the Maoist-affected Balaghat district where polling again began at 7 am.

Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram went to the polls Wednesday morning. Amid tight security, polling for Mizoram's 40-member legislative assembly began at 7 am. Madhya Pradesh went to the polls an hour later at 8 am, apart from the Maoist-affected Balaghat district where polling again began at 7 am. Starting an hour earlier will also polling to end before it gets dark. Mizoram is one of three states currently under Congress rule, while the BJP has been in power in Madhya Pradesh for the last 15 years. The BJP has never formed a government in Mizoram. The Congress and the MNF (Mizoram's second party) are contesting all 40 constituencies in the state, while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is fighting in 39 seats. Voting for 40 constituencies in Mizoram begins. Polling to conclude at 4 pm. #MizoramElections pic.twitter.com/7wHPcVQLsL — ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 × The battle for power in Madhya Pradesh's 230 seats is mainly between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress. The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and the Samajwadi Party (SP) are also in the fray. The BJP has fielded candidates in all 230 seats, while the Congress is contesting 229 seats. In the last polls, of the 230 seats, the BJP won 165, the Congress 58, the BSP four, and Independents three. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan prays on the banks of Narmada river, in Budhni. Voting in the state is underway. #MadhyaPradeshElections2018 pic.twitter.com/Hh9hjNds8Y — ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 × Congress leader Kamal Nath offers prayers at a Hanuman temple in Chhindwara #MadhyaPradeshElections2018 pic.twitter.com/tjdOwNrwtJ — ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 × I have full faith in the people of Madhya Pradesh, they are simple and innocent people who have been robbed for a long time by BJP: Kamal Nath, Congress #MadhyaPradeshElections2018 pic.twitter.com/t7J1mxan9u — ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 × In the previous election in 2013 in Mizoram, the Congress had fielded 40 candidates while it won 34 seats, whereas Mizo National Front (MNF) secured only five seats after contesting 31 seats. Mizoram People's Conference (MPC) had contested on eight seats but it managed to bag only one. The elections are being fought between 209 candidates. The Congress party, which has been in power in Mizoram since 2008, is eyeing a third consecutive term in the state. Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla is contesting from two seats - Serchhip and Champhai South. In Serchhip, Thanhawla will be contesting against Zoram People`s Movement`s (ZPM) chief ministerial candidate Lalduhoma, Mizo National Front (MNF) nominee C Lalramzauva and People`s Representation for Identity and Status of Mizoram (PRISM) party chief Vanlalruata among others. In the Champhai South, the incumbent Chief Minister would contest against MNF`s T J Lalnuntluanga and ZPM`s C Lalremliana. Preparations have also been made for 12,026 Bru refugees who are lodged in six relief camps of Tripura to cast their votes at Kanhmun village in Mamit district where 15 temporary polling stations have been set up. Mizoram: Visuals from a polling station in Zarkawt, Aizawl. Polling for the 40 constituencies in the state will begin at 7 am. #MizoramElections pic.twitter.com/BnKJsWf36E — ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 × An elderly woman after casting her vote at a polling station in Kanhmun #MizoramElections pic.twitter.com/95FxeIAyVb — ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 × The results will be announced on December 11. (With inputs from agencies)

Assembly elections 2018: Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram go to the polls

Altogether 74.61 per cent voters exercised their franchise in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections Wednesday, while that in the northeastern state Mizoram was recorded as 75 per cent.

The turnout till 3 pm was recorded as 50 per cent in MP while 58 per cent in Mizoram.

In the 2013 Assembly election, 72.69 per cent turnout was recorded, an election official said.

The polling Wednesday was marred by complaints of faulty Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVVPAT) machines. Poll officials said 1,145 EVMs and 1,545 VVPATs were replaced after complaints of technical snags.

Polling was held between 8 am and 5 pm in 227 seats, while in three assembly segments - Lanji, Paraswada and Baihar - in the Naxal-affected Balaghat district, the voting time was between 7 am to 3 pm, state Chief Electoral Officer V L Kantha Rao said.

About 2.5 per cent (polling) machines were replaced, Rao said, adding this percentage was around two per cent in other states where elections were held recently.

Three employees died due to "health reasons" while performing poll duty in Dhar, Indore and Guna districts, he said.

At Gadhpura village in Bhind district, a person was injured in violence but it was not poll-related, he said. The incident happened "far from the booth" and was related to enmity between two groups, he added.

Asked about reports that some EVMs were found in a hotel, Rao said, "We have got the information that a sector officer in Shujalpur was staying in a hotel along with ballot machines. On getting information, the officers reached the hotel and seized the machine. The officer concerned was removed (from poll duty) and the polling team was sent along with a new sector officer."

The battle of ballots in Madhya Pradesh is just months ahead of the Lok Sabha polls slated in the first half of 2019.

Altogether 2,899 candidates were in the fray. The state has 5.04 crore, eligible voters.

Also, 3,00,782 government employees, including 45,904 women, were on poll duty and 65,341 polling stations were set up.

75 per cent polling in Mizoram

Around 75 per cent votes were cast in the Mizoram assembly polls on Wednesday but the figure is expected to rise as there were long queues of voters outside polling booths to exercise their franchise, Chief Electoral Officer Ashish Kundra said.

Polling was held in all the 40 assembly seats.

Kundra told reporters that the highest turnout of 81 per cent was reported at Serchhip seat, where Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla is one of the contestants.

At Kanhmun village in Mamit district bordering Tripura where Bru refugees lodged in Tripura camps cast their votes, 52 per cent of the 118987 electorates exercised their franchise, he said.

"This is satisfactory considering the circumstances," he said.

The polling in Kanhmun ended at 3 pm, while for the rest of the state the time was 4 pm.

Altogether 74.61 per cent voters exercised their franchise in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections Wednesday, while that in the northeastern state Mizoram was recorded as 75 per cent.

Altogether 74.61 per cent voters exercised their franchise in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections Wednesday, while that in the northeastern state Mizoram was recorded as 75 per cent. The turnout till 3 pm was recorded as 50 per cent in MP while 58 per cent in Mizoram. In the 2013 Assembly election, 72.69 per cent turnout was recorded, an election official said. The polling Wednesday was marred by complaints of faulty Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVVPAT) machines. Poll officials said 1,145 EVMs and 1,545 VVPATs were replaced after complaints of technical snags. Polling was held between 8 am and 5 pm in 227 seats, while in three assembly segments - Lanji, Paraswada and Baihar - in the Naxal-affected Balaghat district, the voting time was between 7 am to 3 pm, state Chief Electoral Officer V L Kantha Rao said. About 2.5 per cent (polling) machines were replaced, Rao said, adding this percentage was around two per cent in other states where elections were held recently. Three employees died due to "health reasons" while performing poll duty in Dhar, Indore and Guna districts, he said. At Gadhpura village in Bhind district, a person was injured in violence but it was not poll-related, he said. The incident happened "far from the booth" and was related to enmity between two groups, he added. Asked about reports that some EVMs were found in a hotel, Rao said, "We have got the information that a sector officer in Shujalpur was staying in a hotel along with ballot machines. On getting information, the officers reached the hotel and seized the machine. The officer concerned was removed (from poll duty) and the polling team was sent along with a new sector officer." The battle of ballots in Madhya Pradesh is just months ahead of the Lok Sabha polls slated in the first half of 2019. Altogether 2,899 candidates were in the fray. The state has 5.04 crore, eligible voters. Also, 3,00,782 government employees, including 45,904 women, were on poll duty and 65,341 polling stations were set up. 75 per cent polling in Mizoram Around 75 per cent votes were cast in the Mizoram assembly polls on Wednesday but the figure is expected to rise as there were long queues of voters outside polling booths to exercise their franchise, Chief Electoral Officer Ashish Kundra said. Polling was held in all the 40 assembly seats. Kundra told reporters that the highest turnout of 81 per cent was reported at Serchhip seat, where Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla is one of the contestants. At Kanhmun village in Mamit district bordering Tripura where Bru refugees lodged in Tripura camps cast their votes, 52 per cent of the 118987 electorates exercised their franchise, he said. "This is satisfactory considering the circumstances," he said. The polling in Kanhmun ended at 3 pm, while for the rest of the state the time was 4 pm.

Assembly Elections 2018: MP registers 74.61% voter turnout, Mizoram 75%

The voter turnout in Madhya Pradesh till 3 pm was recorded as 50 per cent, while that in the northeastern state was recorded as 58 per cent in Mizoram.

The turnout till 1 pm was recorded as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/assembly-election-2018-madhya-pradesh-registers-21-voter-turnout-mizoram-29-till-11-am-179928">27 per cent in MP while 49 per cent in Mizoram.</a>

The two states are undergoing polls to elect their legislative members.

Mizoram, one of the four states where the Congress is in power at present besides Punjab and the union territory of Puducherry and part of a coalition in Karnataka, is the last remaining bastion for Congress in the northeast.

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Office of Chief Electoral Officer: 58% voter turnout recorded till 3 pm in Mizoram. <a href="https://t.co/RBTlRG4vlR">pic.twitter.com/RBTlRG4vlR</a>
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The campaign has been high decibel, often marked by bitter personal attacks, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi leading the charge of their parties.

In Madhya Pradesh, the contest is mainly between the BJP and Congress through the Bahujan Samaj Party and Samajwadi Party are also in the fray.

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Office of Chief Electoral Officer: 50% voter turnout recorded till 3 pm in Madhya Pradesh. <a href="https://t.co/EygrEhDZxa">pic.twitter.com/EygrEhDZxa</a>
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Apart from Modi`s appeal, the BJP is banking on the image of Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and its organisational structure. Party President Amit Shah, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and union ministers Rajnath Singh, Sushma Swaraj and Arun Jaitley campaigned in the state.&nbsp;

The voter turnout in Madhya Pradesh till 3 pm was recorded as 50 per cent, while that in the northeastern state was recorded as 58 per cent in Mizoram. The turnout till 1 pm was recorded as 27 per cent in MP while 49 per cent in Mizoram.

The voter turnout in Madhya Pradesh till 3 pm was recorded as 50 per cent, while that in the northeastern state was recorded as 58 per cent in Mizoram. The turnout till 1 pm was recorded as 27 per cent in MP while 49 per cent in Mizoram. The two states are undergoing polls to elect their legislative members. Mizoram, one of the four states where the Congress is in power at present besides Punjab and the union territory of Puducherry and part of a coalition in Karnataka, is the last remaining bastion for Congress in the northeast. Office of Chief Electoral Officer: 58% voter turnout recorded till 3 pm in Mizoram. pic.twitter.com/RBTlRG4vlR — ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 × The campaign has been high decibel, often marked by bitter personal attacks, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi leading the charge of their parties. In Madhya Pradesh, the contest is mainly between the BJP and Congress through the Bahujan Samaj Party and Samajwadi Party are also in the fray. Office of Chief Electoral Officer: 50% voter turnout recorded till 3 pm in Madhya Pradesh. pic.twitter.com/EygrEhDZxa — ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 × Apart from Modi`s appeal, the BJP is banking on the image of Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and its organisational structure. Party President Amit Shah, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and union ministers Rajnath Singh, Sushma Swaraj and Arun Jaitley campaigned in the state.

Assembly polls: Madhya Pradesh registers 50% voter turnout, Mizoram 58% till 3 pm

The voter turnout in Madhya Pradesh till 1 pm was recorded as 27 per cent, while that in the northeastern state was recorded as 49 per cent in Mizoram.

The turnout&nbsp;till&nbsp;11 am was recorded as 21 per cent in MP while 29 per cent in Mizoram.

The two states are undergoing<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/assembly-elections-2018-polling-begins-in-mizoram-179865"> polls</a> to elect their legislative members.

Amid tight security, polling for Mizoram's 40-member&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mizoram-polls-litmus-test-for-cm-thanhawla-bjp-looks-to-uproot-congress-from-last-bastion-in-northeast-179767">legislative assembly</a>&nbsp;began at 7 am, while Madhya Pradesh went to the polls an hour later at 8 am.

However,&nbsp;Maoist-affected Balaghat district in MP went to poll at 7 am.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mizoram-polls-litmus-test-for-cm-thanhawla-bjp-looks-to-uproot-congress-from-last-bastion-in-northeast-179767">Mizoram</a>&nbsp;is one of three states currently under Congress rule, while the BJP has been in power in Madhya&nbsp;Pradesh for the last 15 years. The BJP has never formed a government in Mizoram.

The Congress and the MNF (Mizoram's second party) are contesting all 40 constituencies in the state, while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is fighting in 39 seats.

The battle for power in Madhya Pradesh's 230 seats is mainly between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress. The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and the Samajwadi Party (SP) are also in the fray.&nbsp;

The BJP has fielded candidates in all 230 seats, while the Congress is contesting 229 seats.

Congress leader&nbsp;Jyotiraditya Scindia said that he had written to the Election Commission&nbsp;demanding an extension of voting in Madhya Pradesh after several complaints of EVM malfunctioning were reported in the polling booth.&nbsp;

Shivraj Singh Chauhan who had been ruling the state for the past three terms expressed his confidence over winning the elections for the fourth time.

He said, "We’re 100 per cent certain that BJP will forma government with an absolute majority. We have set a target of 200 seats and our lakhs of volunteers are working to make it a reality".

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We’re 100% certain that BJP will form government with an absolute majority. We have set a target of 200 seats and our lakhs of volunteers are working to make it a reality: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan after casting his vote in Budhni <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MadhyaPradeshElections?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MadhyaPradeshElections</a> <a href="https://t.co/RNQMYXBFQs">pic.twitter.com/RNQMYXBFQs</a>
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While Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia said, "I&nbsp;assure you that on 11th December Congress will form the government with the blessings of the people".&nbsp;

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I assure you that on 11th December Congress will form the government with the blessings of the people: Jyotiraditya Scindia after casting his vote at a polling booth in Gwalior <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MadhyaPradeshElections?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MadhyaPradeshElections</a> <a href="https://t.co/AeswowBZTU">pic.twitter.com/AeswowBZTU</a>
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The election day also witnessed an unfortunate death of one election commission in Guna while two others in Indore.&nbsp;

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One Election Commission official in Guna, and two in Indore have passed away due to cardiac arrest <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MadhyaPradeshElections?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MadhyaPradeshElections</a>
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&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Update?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Update</a> Election Commission announces Rs 10 lakh each compensation for the kin of the EC officials who passed away while on election duty <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MadhyaPradeshElections?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MadhyaPradeshElections</a> <a href="https://t.co/7Qv1XJvwIS">https://t.co/7Qv1XJvwIS</a>
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&nbsp;

The voter turnout in Madhya Pradesh till 1 pm was recorded as 27 per cent, while that in the northeastern state was recorded as 49 per cent in Mizoram. The turnout till 11 am was recorded as 21 per cent in MP while 29 per cent in Mizoram.

The voter turnout in Madhya Pradesh till 1 pm was recorded as 27 per cent, while that in the northeastern state was recorded as 49 per cent in Mizoram. The turnout till 11 am was recorded as 21 per cent in MP while 29 per cent in Mizoram. The two states are undergoing polls to elect their legislative members. Amid tight security, polling for Mizoram's 40-member legislative assembly began at 7 am, while Madhya Pradesh went to the polls an hour later at 8 am. However, Maoist-affected Balaghat district in MP went to poll at 7 am. Mizoram is one of three states currently under Congress rule, while the BJP has been in power in Madhya Pradesh for the last 15 years. The BJP has never formed a government in Mizoram. The Congress and the MNF (Mizoram's second party) are contesting all 40 constituencies in the state, while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is fighting in 39 seats. The battle for power in Madhya Pradesh's 230 seats is mainly between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress. The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and the Samajwadi Party (SP) are also in the fray. The BJP has fielded candidates in all 230 seats, while the Congress is contesting 229 seats. Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia said that he had written to the Election Commission demanding an extension of voting in Madhya Pradesh after several complaints of EVM malfunctioning were reported in the polling booth. Shivraj Singh Chauhan who had been ruling the state for the past three terms expressed his confidence over winning the elections for the fourth time. He said, "We’re 100 per cent certain that BJP will forma government with an absolute majority. We have set a target of 200 seats and our lakhs of volunteers are working to make it a reality". We’re 100% certain that BJP will form government with an absolute majority. We have set a target of 200 seats and our lakhs of volunteers are working to make it a reality: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan after casting his vote in Budhni #MadhyaPradeshElections pic.twitter.com/RNQMYXBFQs — ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 × While Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia said, "I assure you that on 11th December Congress will form the government with the blessings of the people". I assure you that on 11th December Congress will form the government with the blessings of the people: Jyotiraditya Scindia after casting his vote at a polling booth in Gwalior #MadhyaPradeshElections pic.twitter.com/AeswowBZTU — ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 × The election day also witnessed an unfortunate death of one election commission in Guna while two others in Indore. One Election Commission official in Guna, and two in Indore have passed away due to cardiac arrest #MadhyaPradeshElections — ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 × #Update Election Commission announces Rs 10 lakh each compensation for the kin of the EC officials who passed away while on election duty #MadhyaPradeshElections https://t.co/7Qv1XJvwIS — ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 ×

Assembly election 2018: Madhya Pradesh registers 27% voter turnout, Mizoram 49% till 1 pm

The people of Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram are all set to cast their votes in the state Vidhan Sabha polls.

The election machinery is ready and all prepared for the elections in both states.&nbsp;

Chief Electoral Officer, Madhya Pradesh, VL Kantha Rao on Monday announced that 65,000 polling booths will be set up for the assembly elections, including 2000 booths that would be entirely women-operated.

"3 Lakh government employees including 45,000 women have been deployed on polling duty. 65,000 polling booths are being made in the state. Around 2,000 entirely women-only polling booths would be functional. 160 polling booths will be fully operated by differently-abled personnel," he informed.

1.80 lakh security personnel and 3,00,782 government employees have been deployed on poll duty at 65,367 booths set up across the state.

Madhya Pradesh has a 230-member Assembly and total 2,907 candidates are in the fray for the contest.

The BJP is contesting on all the 230 seats, while the Congress has fielded 229 candidates.

In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP won 166 seats in the House in 2013 and elected Chouhan as the Chief Minister. The Congress and BSP bagged 58 and 4 seats respectively. Three Independent MLAs also won the polls.

The tenure of 230-member House expires on January 7, 2019.

Meanwhile, all arrangements are in place in Mizoram for the voting.

The Congress and the main opposition, the MNF, have fielded 40 candidates each, while the BJP is contesting in 39 seats.

(With inputs from agencies)

The people of Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram are all set to cast their votes in the state Vidhan Sabha polls. The election machinery is ready and all prepared for the elections in both states.

The people of Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram are all set to cast their votes in the state Vidhan Sabha polls. The election machinery is ready and all prepared for the elections in both states. Chief Electoral Officer, Madhya Pradesh, VL Kantha Rao on Monday announced that 65,000 polling booths will be set up for the assembly elections, including 2000 booths that would be entirely women-operated. "3 Lakh government employees including 45,000 women have been deployed on polling duty. 65,000 polling booths are being made in the state. Around 2,000 entirely women-only polling booths would be functional. 160 polling booths will be fully operated by differently-abled personnel," he informed. 1.80 lakh security personnel and 3,00,782 government employees have been deployed on poll duty at 65,367 booths set up across the state. Madhya Pradesh has a 230-member Assembly and total 2,907 candidates are in the fray for the contest. The BJP is contesting on all the 230 seats, while the Congress has fielded 229 candidates. In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP won 166 seats in the House in 2013 and elected Chouhan as the Chief Minister. The Congress and BSP bagged 58 and 4 seats respectively. Three Independent MLAs also won the polls. The tenure of 230-member House expires on January 7, 2019. Meanwhile, all arrangements are in place in Mizoram for the voting. The Congress and the main opposition, the MNF, have fielded 40 candidates each, while the BJP is contesting in 39 seats. (With inputs from agencies)

Security tightened ahead of voting in Madhya Pradesh, Mizoram

Chief Electoral Officer, Madhya Pradesh, VL Kantha Rao on Monday announced that 65,000 polling booths will be set up for the assembly elections, including 2000 booths that would be entirely women-operated.

"3 Lakh government employees including 45,000 women have been deployed on polling duty. 65,000 polling booths are being made in the state. Around 2,000 entirely women-only polling booths would be functional. 160 polling booths will be fully operated by differently-abled personnel," he informed.

Rao also announced that the silence period for Madhya Pradesh had begun, prohibiting all forms of campaigning in the state. "With only 48 hours remaining from the end of polling, the silence period has begun for the Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections and all campaigning is prohibited now onwards. Any advertisement on print, electronic media or social media is prohibited. Campaigning through phone calls or messaging services is also prohibited."

Rao further informed that special arrangements have been made for visually impaired people to help them cast their vote.

"Apart from the 3 lakh employees from the state, 12,000 Central Government Employees will be working as micro-observers at a different place. For the convenience of visually impaired voters, the commission has issued Electors Photo Identity Cards (EPIC) with Braille inscription".

Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections will take place on November 28 to elect members of the 230 constituencies in the state.

The result of the polls will declare on December 11. The election will be considered as a direct political battle between the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) and the Congress.

While the incumbent Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan government will try to win the post for the consecutive fourth term, the Congress will fight for winning the state after 2003.

In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP won 166 seats in the House in 2013 and elected Chouhan as the Chief Minister.

The Congress and BSP bagged 58 and 4 seats respectively. Three Independent MLAs also won the polls. The tenure of 230-member House expires on January 7, 2019. (ANI)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Chief Electoral Officer, Madhya Pradesh, VL Kantha Rao on Monday announced that 65,000 polling booths will be set up for the assembly elections, including 2000 booths that would be entirely women-operated.

Chief Electoral Officer, Madhya Pradesh, VL Kantha Rao on Monday announced that 65,000 polling booths will be set up for the assembly elections, including 2000 booths that would be entirely women-operated. "3 Lakh government employees including 45,000 women have been deployed on polling duty. 65,000 polling booths are being made in the state. Around 2,000 entirely women-only polling booths would be functional. 160 polling booths will be fully operated by differently-abled personnel," he informed. Rao also announced that the silence period for Madhya Pradesh had begun, prohibiting all forms of campaigning in the state. "With only 48 hours remaining from the end of polling, the silence period has begun for the Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections and all campaigning is prohibited now onwards. Any advertisement on print, electronic media or social media is prohibited. Campaigning through phone calls or messaging services is also prohibited." Rao further informed that special arrangements have been made for visually impaired people to help them cast their vote. "Apart from the 3 lakh employees from the state, 12,000 Central Government Employees will be working as micro-observers at a different place. For the convenience of visually impaired voters, the commission has issued Electors Photo Identity Cards (EPIC) with Braille inscription". Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections will take place on November 28 to elect members of the 230 constituencies in the state. The result of the polls will declare on December 11. The election will be considered as a direct political battle between the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) and the Congress. While the incumbent Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan government will try to win the post for the consecutive fourth term, the Congress will fight for winning the state after 2003. In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP won 166 seats in the House in 2013 and elected Chouhan as the Chief Minister. The Congress and BSP bagged 58 and 4 seats respectively. Three Independent MLAs also won the polls. The tenure of 230-member House expires on January 7, 2019. (ANI)

MP polls: EC to set up 65,000 polling booths, 2000 to be women-operated

Ahead of the assembly elections in the state, politicians from all different political parties are leaving no stone unturned to woo the voters.

Sharad Singh Kumar, of Rashtriya Aamjan Party contesting on the election symbol of a shoe has garnered attention owing to his unique style of campaigning.

Singh is polishing shoes of people ahead of Madhya Pradesh Elections and says that he will make use of his unique election symbol to turn it into a blessing.

Singh told ANI, ''It was a free poll symbol that no one was willing to take. We took it and we will turn it into a blessing".

Singh's is not alone in his style of campaigning is somewhat similar to another out of box campaigning of an independent candidate fighting elections in Telangana assembly polls.

Akula Hanumanth, an independent candidate from Korutla constituency of Jagtial district has been distributing slippers and a signed slip to citizens, asking them to hit him with the same if he doesn't fulfil their expectations after winning.

The state of will go to polls to elect legislators for its 230 constituencies on November 28. Results will be declared on December 11.

Ahead of the assembly elections in the state, politicians from all different political parties are leaving no stone unturned to woo the voters. Sharad Singh Kumar, of Rashtriya Aamjan Party contesting on the election symbol of a shoe has garnered attention owing to his unique style of campaigning.

Ahead of the assembly elections in the state, politicians from all different political parties are leaving no stone unturned to woo the voters. Sharad Singh Kumar, of Rashtriya Aamjan Party contesting on the election symbol of a shoe has garnered attention owing to his unique style of campaigning. Singh is polishing shoes of people ahead of Madhya Pradesh Elections and says that he will make use of his unique election symbol to turn it into a blessing. Singh told ANI, ''It was a free poll symbol that no one was willing to take. We took it and we will turn it into a blessing". Singh's is not alone in his style of campaigning is somewhat similar to another out of box campaigning of an independent candidate fighting elections in Telangana assembly polls. Akula Hanumanth, an independent candidate from Korutla constituency of Jagtial district has been distributing slippers and a signed slip to citizens, asking them to hit him with the same if he doesn't fulfil their expectations after winning. The state of will go to polls to elect legislators for its 230 constituencies on November 28. Results will be declared on December 11.

MP polls: This candidate is polishing shoes to please voters

Chief Electoral Officer, Madhya Pradesh, VL Kantha Rao on Sunday informed that 1,80,000 security personnel including officers of state police, Central para-military forces and home guards will be deployed in the state of Madhya Pradesh ahead of assembly elections due for November 28.

Sharing details of the poll preparedness in the state, Rao while addressing a press conference here said, "In law and order front, 85% of Madhya Pradesh state police personnel have been drafted in election duty and 90% home guard have been involved in election work. If we combine state police, constables and home guards about 80, 000 security personnel from states are being deployed for election duty. Apart from these one lakh more security personnel including 650 companies of Central para-military forces will be on election duty in the state."

He also informed that inter-state checkpoints of the state have been sealed and campaign vehicles have been prohibited from entering the state.

He further said, "As of now around 72 hours are left for polling exercise to culminate in the state. Warehouse, distillery, brewery and bottling plants in the state have been forbidden to bring out any supplies of liquor. From other states, no supply of liquor will be allowed to come in the boundaries of the state. From 5 PM onwards on 25th November, 456 inter-state check-points have been sealed and all political or campaign-related vehicles have been prohibited from entering through these points. Our 1770 teams of flying squads and surveillance personnel have been made operational in the state for next 72 hours."

He also asserted that in terms of the vehicular moment, the poll body had prohibited the formation of a convoy of more than 10 vehicles. The state will go to polls on November 28 to elect its 230 members of legislative assembly. The results will be declared on December 11.

Chief Electoral Officer, Madhya Pradesh, VL Kantha Rao on Sunday informed that 1,80,000 security personnel including officers of state police, Central para-military forces and home guards will be deployed in the state of Madhya Pradesh ahead of assembly elections due for November 28.

Chief Electoral Officer, Madhya Pradesh, VL Kantha Rao on Sunday informed that 1,80,000 security personnel including officers of state police, Central para-military forces and home guards will be deployed in the state of Madhya Pradesh ahead of assembly elections due for November 28. Sharing details of the poll preparedness in the state, Rao while addressing a press conference here said, "In law and order front, 85% of Madhya Pradesh state police personnel have been drafted in election duty and 90% home guard have been involved in election work. If we combine state police, constables and home guards about 80, 000 security personnel from states are being deployed for election duty. Apart from these one lakh more security personnel including 650 companies of Central para-military forces will be on election duty in the state." He also informed that inter-state checkpoints of the state have been sealed and campaign vehicles have been prohibited from entering the state. He further said, "As of now around 72 hours are left for polling exercise to culminate in the state. Warehouse, distillery, brewery and bottling plants in the state have been forbidden to bring out any supplies of liquor. From other states, no supply of liquor will be allowed to come in the boundaries of the state. From 5 PM onwards on 25th November, 456 inter-state check-points have been sealed and all political or campaign-related vehicles have been prohibited from entering through these points. Our 1770 teams of flying squads and surveillance personnel have been made operational in the state for next 72 hours." He also asserted that in terms of the vehicular moment, the poll body had prohibited the formation of a convoy of more than 10 vehicles. The state will go to polls on November 28 to elect its 230 members of legislative assembly. The results will be declared on December 11.

180,000 security personnel deployed, state borders sealed ahead of MP polls

Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Sunday launched a scathing attack on Congress party and said that it is the Congress which is responsible for the destruction of Madhya Pradesh and is now furious at him because he developed the state.

Addressing an election campaign rally, Chouhan said, "It is Congress party which is responsible for the destruction of Madhya Pradesh. Congress is now running a campaign that there is anger. I want to ask people if they are angry with me. It is not people but the Congress which is furious at me."

"They are furious because they gave me potholed filled state and I constructed 1.5 lakh kilometres of excellent roads and gave it to the public. Congress is furious because they had made Madhya Pradesh a state of darkness and we provided excellent power supply to the public. They are worried hence making allegations," he added.

Later addressing a public rally at Dewas, he made promises of bearing the higher education expenses of students and providing two-wheelers to the girls achieving good marks, "My government is resolved to bear the higher education expenses of students of the state who score good marks. The daughters of this state who get 75% marks in the 12th standard will be provided with a scooty by the government."

He also invoked his humble background during the rally and said that the Congress is not able to tolerate that the son of a farmer is sitting on the chair of the chief minister for last many years.

Chouhan also addressed another political rally in Ujjain district and said, "Congress since the time of Indira Gandhi has been saying that they will remove poverty but did not do anything in this regard. However I assure you by the year 2022, no poor person will live in a mud house and we will provide affordable housing for all."

Intensifying his poll campaign, Shivraj also addressed different political rallies in Khargone, Agar Malwa and Jaora and asserted that he will continue to work for public welfare and development of the state, without any discrimination.

The state will go to polls to elect legislators for its 230 constituencies on November 28. Results will be declared on December 11. While the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will look to extend its 15-year rule in the state, the Congress is in a bid to regain power in Madhya Pradesh.

Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Sunday launched a scathing attack on Congress party and said that it is the Congress which is responsible for the destruction of Madhya Pradesh and is now furious at him because he developed the state.

Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Sunday launched a scathing attack on Congress party and said that it is the Congress which is responsible for the destruction of Madhya Pradesh and is now furious at him because he developed the state. Addressing an election campaign rally, Chouhan said, "It is Congress party which is responsible for the destruction of Madhya Pradesh. Congress is now running a campaign that there is anger. I want to ask people if they are angry with me. It is not people but the Congress which is furious at me." "They are furious because they gave me potholed filled state and I constructed 1.5 lakh kilometres of excellent roads and gave it to the public. Congress is furious because they had made Madhya Pradesh a state of darkness and we provided excellent power supply to the public. They are worried hence making allegations," he added. Later addressing a public rally at Dewas, he made promises of bearing the higher education expenses of students and providing two-wheelers to the girls achieving good marks, "My government is resolved to bear the higher education expenses of students of the state who score good marks. The daughters of this state who get 75% marks in the 12th standard will be provided with a scooty by the government." He also invoked his humble background during the rally and said that the Congress is not able to tolerate that the son of a farmer is sitting on the chair of the chief minister for last many years. Chouhan also addressed another political rally in Ujjain district and said, "Congress since the time of Indira Gandhi has been saying that they will remove poverty but did not do anything in this regard. However I assure you by the year 2022, no poor person will live in a mud house and we will provide affordable housing for all." Intensifying his poll campaign, Shivraj also addressed different political rallies in Khargone, Agar Malwa and Jaora and asserted that he will continue to work for public welfare and development of the state, without any discrimination. The state will go to polls to elect legislators for its 230 constituencies on November 28. Results will be declared on December 11. While the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will look to extend its 15-year rule in the state, the Congress is in a bid to regain power in Madhya Pradesh.

Congress angry because I developed the state they destroyed: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi slammed the Congress Sunday for dragging his parents into a political slugfest, alleging that it was being done at the behest of party chief Rahul Gandhi.

He also justified his own tirade against the Nehru-Gandhi family, pointing out that unlike his parents, they occupied top positions in politics and the government.

Congress leaders have kicked up a controversy recently by first comparing the falling value of the rupee to the advanced age of Modi's mother and then claiming that the father of the prime minister was not someone illustrious.

"What has happened to the Congress party? Naamdar (referring to Rahul Gandhi) is tacitly supporting it, and therefore, its leaders are dragging the name of my father, who passed away 30 years ago," Modi said, addressing a rally here in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh.

"The Congress is running out of steam in this election, so they have started dragging my parents into politics,'' Modi said.

"No Congressman would make such a statement against me or my family without the consent of the party president (Rahul Gandhi). It is the 'naamdar' (dynast) who is making his leaders speak against me," he added.

"My mother sits in her house, performing religious rites, confining herself to a room, and has never visited Madhya Pradesh. She does not even know the 'R' of 'rajneeti' (politics)," Modi said.

"Yesterday, they took the name of my mother and now my father. The Congress chief is behind this....Naamdar alleges that the prime minister takes the names of his family members. Yes, I have to take their names as they were in politics, unlike my family members who sit quietly in their home and do their job," he added.

"Had my parents held any public post, they should also have been criticised," the prime minister said.

"Your family has occupied top positions at the national level. The more you ask me about my performance, the onus is more on your family as well," he added.

The opposition party was left with no issues and was, therefore, indulging in this kind of an abusive rhetoric, Modi said.

"The Congress should compare its 55 years of rule with my four years (at the Centre) and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's 15 years (in the state).

"The Congress is lying so much to people that the people of Madhya Pradesh should wake up and ensure that not a single Congress candidate wins," he added.

The previous Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government had introduced a crop loan waiver scheme in 2008, but of the Rs 6-lakh crore agricultural debt in the country, loans of only Rs 60,000 crore were waived, the prime minister claimed.

Former Union minister Vilas Muttemwar made a controversial statement at a Congress meeting in Rajasthan Saturday.

"Who knew you (Modi) before you became the prime minister? Even now, nobody knows the name of your father, but everyone knows the name of Rahul Gandhi's father," Muttemwar was purportedly heard saying in a video that went viral.

Earlier, Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Raj Babbar had compared the falling value of the rupee to the advanced age of Modi's mother.

In his speech in Vidisha Sunday, Modi also mentioned his cabinet colleague and local MP Sushma Swaraj.

Despite health issues, Swaraj had ensured the development of the constituency, the prime minister said.

The 230-member Madhya Pradesh Assembly will go to the polls on November 28 and the results will be announced on December 11. &nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi slammed the Congress Sunday for dragging his parents into a political slugfest, alleging that it was being done at the behest of party chief Rahul Gandhi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi slammed the Congress Sunday for dragging his parents into a political slugfest, alleging that it was being done at the behest of party chief Rahul Gandhi. He also justified his own tirade against the Nehru-Gandhi family, pointing out that unlike his parents, they occupied top positions in politics and the government. Congress leaders have kicked up a controversy recently by first comparing the falling value of the rupee to the advanced age of Modi's mother and then claiming that the father of the prime minister was not someone illustrious. "What has happened to the Congress party? Naamdar (referring to Rahul Gandhi) is tacitly supporting it, and therefore, its leaders are dragging the name of my father, who passed away 30 years ago," Modi said, addressing a rally here in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh. "The Congress is running out of steam in this election, so they have started dragging my parents into politics,'' Modi said. "No Congressman would make such a statement against me or my family without the consent of the party president (Rahul Gandhi). It is the 'naamdar' (dynast) who is making his leaders speak against me," he added. "My mother sits in her house, performing religious rites, confining herself to a room, and has never visited Madhya Pradesh. She does not even know the 'R' of 'rajneeti' (politics)," Modi said. "Yesterday, they took the name of my mother and now my father. The Congress chief is behind this....Naamdar alleges that the prime minister takes the names of his family members. Yes, I have to take their names as they were in politics, unlike my family members who sit quietly in their home and do their job," he added. "Had my parents held any public post, they should also have been criticised," the prime minister said. "Your family has occupied top positions at the national level. The more you ask me about my performance, the onus is more on your family as well," he added. The opposition party was left with no issues and was, therefore, indulging in this kind of an abusive rhetoric, Modi said. "The Congress should compare its 55 years of rule with my four years (at the Centre) and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's 15 years (in the state). "The Congress is lying so much to people that the people of Madhya Pradesh should wake up and ensure that not a single Congress candidate wins," he added. The previous Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government had introduced a crop loan waiver scheme in 2008, but of the Rs 6-lakh crore agricultural debt in the country, loans of only Rs 60,000 crore were waived, the prime minister claimed. Former Union minister Vilas Muttemwar made a controversial statement at a Congress meeting in Rajasthan Saturday. "Who knew you (Modi) before you became the prime minister? Even now, nobody knows the name of your father, but everyone knows the name of Rahul Gandhi's father," Muttemwar was purportedly heard saying in a video that went viral. Earlier, Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Raj Babbar had compared the falling value of the rupee to the advanced age of Modi's mother. In his speech in Vidisha Sunday, Modi also mentioned his cabinet colleague and local MP Sushma Swaraj. Despite health issues, Swaraj had ensured the development of the constituency, the prime minister said. The 230-member Madhya Pradesh Assembly will go to the polls on November 28 and the results will be announced on December 11.

Congress dragging my parents into politics at Rahul's behest: PM Modi

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Aditynath hit out at Rahul Gandhi over the issue of national security Saturday, and hinting at the Congress chief's comments on the Rafale deal, said it was hard to guess whether he was speaking in India or Pakistan.

Speaking at a rally in Indore's Rau area, Adityanath also attacked Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Kamal Nath over a video that has gone viral and made a veiled reference to the origins of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi with an "Italy" jibe.

"The country is setting new records on the security front and has developed its hitting capabilities, due to which we can enter the territories of enemies like China and Pakistan. This is upsetting the Congress," he told the gathering.

Attacking the Congress chief, Adityanath said, "You will be surprised at the fake outlook of the Congress. Do you know what Rahul speaks? Sometimes, we cannot guess from his body language whether he is speaking in India or Pakistan."

Gandhi has been attacking the Centre on the Rafale fighter jets deal and has claimed that the aircraft were being bought for prices much higher than what the previous Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government had agreed to.

The Centre, however, has maintained that the Rafale deal was carried out after following proper norms.

Speaking about the video in which Nath is purportedly seen talking about the votes of the Muslim community, Adityanath said, "You can remain happy with Ali, we have Bajrangbali."

In the video, Nath is purportedly heard saying, "If the Muslim community does not record a 90-per cent voting, we will suffer a heavy blow."

The Congress has, however, dubbed the video as a conspiracy of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to divide voters on communal lines.

"We (BJP) do not discriminate on the basis of the beneficiaries' caste and religion in government schemes. This is Ram Rajya, in which there should be no discrimination against any person on any basis," Adityanath said.

He alleged that the Congress had turned Hindi-speaking states like Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand into "Bimaru" ones.

"Bimaru" is an acronym for Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh and has regularly been used by economists and political pundits to signify the "bimar" (Hindi for ailing) socio-economic parameters of these states.

"During the Congress rule, there was terrorism in some of these states and Naxalism in some others. Besides, different types of mafia were also active," Adityanath alleged.

In an apparent reference to Sonia Gandhi's origins, The Uttar Pradesh chief minister, without naming anybody, said, "Some mafias were brought here from Italy by the Congress as dowry."

He also questioned the Congress's pre-poll promise of farm loan waiver, something that has been mentioned by Rahul Gandhi in his election rallies in Madhya Pradesh as well as in other poll-bound states.

"First, the Congress should waive the debts of all farmers in Punjab," Adityanath said.

The 230-member Madhya Pradesh Assembly will go to the polls on November 28 and the results will be announced on December 11.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Aditynath hit out at Rahul Gandhi over the issue of national security Saturday, and hinting at the Congress chief's comments on the Rafale deal, said it was hard to guess whether he was speaking in India or Pakistan.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Aditynath hit out at Rahul Gandhi over the issue of national security Saturday, and hinting at the Congress chief's comments on the Rafale deal, said it was hard to guess whether he was speaking in India or Pakistan. Speaking at a rally in Indore's Rau area, Adityanath also attacked Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Kamal Nath over a video that has gone viral and made a veiled reference to the origins of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi with an "Italy" jibe. "The country is setting new records on the security front and has developed its hitting capabilities, due to which we can enter the territories of enemies like China and Pakistan. This is upsetting the Congress," he told the gathering. Attacking the Congress chief, Adityanath said, "You will be surprised at the fake outlook of the Congress. Do you know what Rahul speaks? Sometimes, we cannot guess from his body language whether he is speaking in India or Pakistan." Gandhi has been attacking the Centre on the Rafale fighter jets deal and has claimed that the aircraft were being bought for prices much higher than what the previous Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government had agreed to. The Centre, however, has maintained that the Rafale deal was carried out after following proper norms. Speaking about the video in which Nath is purportedly seen talking about the votes of the Muslim community, Adityanath said, "You can remain happy with Ali, we have Bajrangbali." In the video, Nath is purportedly heard saying, "If the Muslim community does not record a 90-per cent voting, we will suffer a heavy blow." The Congress has, however, dubbed the video as a conspiracy of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to divide voters on communal lines. "We (BJP) do not discriminate on the basis of the beneficiaries' caste and religion in government schemes. This is Ram Rajya, in which there should be no discrimination against any person on any basis," Adityanath said. He alleged that the Congress had turned Hindi-speaking states like Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand into "Bimaru" ones. "Bimaru" is an acronym for Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh and has regularly been used by economists and political pundits to signify the "bimar" (Hindi for ailing) socio-economic parameters of these states. "During the Congress rule, there was terrorism in some of these states and Naxalism in some others. Besides, different types of mafia were also active," Adityanath alleged. In an apparent reference to Sonia Gandhi's origins, The Uttar Pradesh chief minister, without naming anybody, said, "Some mafias were brought here from Italy by the Congress as dowry." He also questioned the Congress's pre-poll promise of farm loan waiver, something that has been mentioned by Rahul Gandhi in his election rallies in Madhya Pradesh as well as in other poll-bound states. "First, the Congress should waive the debts of all farmers in Punjab," Adityanath said. The 230-member Madhya Pradesh Assembly will go to the polls on November 28 and the results will be announced on December 11.

Cannot guess if Rahul is speaking in India or Pakistan: Adityanath in Madhya Pradesh

With only four days left for Madhya Pradesh assembly polls scheduled for November 28, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday launched a high-voltage attack on the Congress.

"The Congress party cannot live without power," he said. Addressing a poll rally in Mhow, Chouhan said, "Congress party has been like a fish, living without water for the past 15 years as they have not been in power since then. Moreover, they have been angry for the last 13 years as the son of a farmer has been the state`s Chief Minister."

Elaborating upon the work that has been done by his government for the welfare and development of the state, he said, "We have left no stone unturned for the development of the state. We make policies for the welfare of small farmers which will benefit them along with the bonus they get."

Lashing out at Rahul Gandhi led-Congress, he claimed that Congress gets angry when his government works for the benefit of the poor and elderly.

He said, "The Congress party gets angry when we work for the poor. The Congress party gets angry when we send elderly on pilgrimage."

Chouhan urged the people to vote for the BJP in the ensuing polls so that the state can develop and progress.

Madhya Pradesh, with 230-member assembly seats, will go to single-phase polls on November 28. The counting of votes will be done on December 11. 
&nbsp;

With only four days left for Madhya Pradesh assembly polls scheduled for November 28, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday launched a high-voltage attack on the Congress.

With only four days left for Madhya Pradesh assembly polls scheduled for November 28, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday launched a high-voltage attack on the Congress. "The Congress party cannot live without power," he said. Addressing a poll rally in Mhow, Chouhan said, "Congress party has been like a fish, living without water for the past 15 years as they have not been in power since then. Moreover, they have been angry for the last 13 years as the son of a farmer has been the state`s Chief Minister." Elaborating upon the work that has been done by his government for the welfare and development of the state, he said, "We have left no stone unturned for the development of the state. We make policies for the welfare of small farmers which will benefit them along with the bonus they get." Lashing out at Rahul Gandhi led-Congress, he claimed that Congress gets angry when his government works for the benefit of the poor and elderly. He said, "The Congress party gets angry when we work for the poor. The Congress party gets angry when we send elderly on pilgrimage." Chouhan urged the people to vote for the BJP in the ensuing polls so that the state can develop and progress. Madhya Pradesh, with 230-member assembly seats, will go to single-phase polls on November 28. The counting of votes will be done on December 11.

Congress can't live without power: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/mary-kom-wins-record-sixth-gold-medal-in-womens-world-championships-179144">Mary Kom clinches record sixth gold medal in Women's World Boxing Championships</a>

Mary Kom defeated Ukraine's Hanna Okhota 5-0 in 48kg light flyweight category to win gold in Women's World Boxing Championships on Saturday.

She scripted history by clinching a record sixth World Championship gold medal.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-linkens-farmers-woes-to-55-60-years-of-congress-misrule-179154">Modi </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-linkens-farmers-woes-to-55-60-years-of-congress-misrule-179154">linkens</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-linkens-farmers-woes-to-55-60-years-of-congress-misrule-179154"> farmers' woes to 55-60 years of Congress misrule&nbsp;</a>

This generation of farmers are suffering due to the wrongdoings and wrong policies of the Congress, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing a public rally in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh on Saturday.&nbsp;

Modi said that his government is bearing the brunt of Congress misrule.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-congress-lacks-a-stand-on-ayodhya-dispute-bjp-pitches-a-political-narrative-on-it-179142">As Congress lacks a stand on Ayodhya dispute, BJP pitches a political narrative on it</a>

After 25 years, Ayodhya is back as the main poll agenda for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. VHP, RSS and Shiv Sena have lend muscle to the 'Dharma Sabha' which will take place on Sunday on the banks of Sarayu river in Ayodhya. It will be followed by a holy ceremony (yagna) which will take place between December 1 and 6.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/french-police-fire-tear-gas-at-fuel-price-protesters-179140">French police fire tear gas at fuel price protesters</a>

Police fired tear gas and used water cannon to disperse protesters in Paris who are angry over rising fuel costs and President Emmanuel Macron's economic policies, the second weekend of "yellow vest" protests that have caused disruption across France.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-calls-for-muslims-to-unite-against-united-states-179157">Iran President Hassan Rouhani calls for Muslims to unite against </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-calls-for-muslims-to-unite-against-united-states-179157">United</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-calls-for-muslims-to-unite-against-united-states-179157"> States</a>

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani called on Muslims worldwide on Saturday to unite against the United States, instead of "rolling out red carpets for criminals".

Washington in May reimposed sanctions on Tehran, after President Donald Trump pulled out of a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran under which they had been lifted.

Mary Kom clinches record sixth gold medal in Women's World Boxing Championships Mary Kom defeated Ukraine's Hanna Okhota 5-0 in 48kg light flyweight category to win gold in Women's World Boxing Championships on Saturday.

Mary Kom clinches record sixth gold medal in Women's World Boxing Championships Mary Kom defeated Ukraine's Hanna Okhota 5-0 in 48kg light flyweight category to win gold in Women's World Boxing Championships on Saturday. She scripted history by clinching a record sixth World Championship gold medal. Modi linkens farmers' woes to 55-60 years of Congress misrule This generation of farmers are suffering due to the wrongdoings and wrong policies of the Congress, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing a public rally in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh on Saturday. Modi said that his government is bearing the brunt of Congress misrule. As Congress lacks a stand on Ayodhya dispute, BJP pitches a political narrative on it After 25 years, Ayodhya is back as the main poll agenda for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. VHP, RSS and Shiv Sena have lend muscle to the 'Dharma Sabha' which will take place on Sunday on the banks of Sarayu river in Ayodhya. It will be followed by a holy ceremony (yagna) which will take place between December 1 and 6. French police fire tear gas at fuel price protesters Police fired tear gas and used water cannon to disperse protesters in Paris who are angry over rising fuel costs and President Emmanuel Macron's economic policies, the second weekend of "yellow vest" protests that have caused disruption across France. Iran President Hassan Rouhani calls for Muslims to unite against United States Iranian President Hassan Rouhani called on Muslims worldwide on Saturday to unite against the United States, instead of "rolling out red carpets for criminals". Washington in May reimposed sanctions on Tehran, after President Donald Trump pulled out of a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran under which they had been lifted.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi said Saturday Prime Minister Narendra Modi has betrayed the people, claiming that he had not fulfilled promises of providing two crore jobs every year and "depositing" Rs 15 lakh in their bank accounts.

The Congress chief was addressing a rally at Sagar in Madhya Pradesh, where assembly polls will be held on November 28.

"Modiji has betrayed the people on the issue of providing jobs to two crore people every year and depositing Rs 15 lakh cash into their accounts by bringing (back) black money stashed abroad," Gandhi said.

Modi, during the 2014 Lok Sabha election campaign, had prominently highlighted the issue of black money and had promised to bring it back.&nbsp;

The fear of losing the 2019 general elections has created "hatred" in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mind against the Congress, Gandhi said addressing another rally at Damoh later.

The Congress chief said while Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan speaks with decency, Modi lacks it whenever he attacks the Congress and his family members.

"When you hear Modi's speech, he uses wrong words and speaks with hatred... And also speaks lies. The faith reposed by the people and youths in them has broken. Now, when Modi comes, people say he will speak lies," Gandhi said.

"He (Modi) speaks with hatred about me and my family, but Shivraj uses decent language. Modi doesn't know how to speak decently, but Rahul Gandhi will always maintain decency while speaking," he said.

"Though Chouhan has indulged in corruption, whenever he says anything against us, he speaks with decency," Gandhi added.&nbsp;

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi said Saturday Prime Minister Narendra Modi has betrayed the people, claiming that he had not fulfilled promises of providing two crore jobs every year and "depositing" Rs 15 lakh in their bank accounts.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi said Saturday Prime Minister Narendra Modi has betrayed the people, claiming that he had not fulfilled promises of providing two crore jobs every year and "depositing" Rs 15 lakh in their bank accounts. The Congress chief was addressing a rally at Sagar in Madhya Pradesh, where assembly polls will be held on November 28. "Modiji has betrayed the people on the issue of providing jobs to two crore people every year and depositing Rs 15 lakh cash into their accounts by bringing (back) black money stashed abroad," Gandhi said. Modi, during the 2014 Lok Sabha election campaign, had prominently highlighted the issue of black money and had promised to bring it back. The fear of losing the 2019 general elections has created "hatred" in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mind against the Congress, Gandhi said addressing another rally at Damoh later. The Congress chief said while Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan speaks with decency, Modi lacks it whenever he attacks the Congress and his family members. "When you hear Modi's speech, he uses wrong words and speaks with hatred... And also speaks lies. The faith reposed by the people and youths in them has broken. Now, when Modi comes, people say he will speak lies," Gandhi said. "He (Modi) speaks with hatred about me and my family, but Shivraj uses decent language. Modi doesn't know how to speak decently, but Rahul Gandhi will always maintain decency while speaking," he said. "Though Chouhan has indulged in corruption, whenever he says anything against us, he speaks with decency," Gandhi added.

Modi 'betrayed' people on promises of jobs, 'depositing' Rs 15 lakh in accounts: Rahul Gandhi

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman took offence Friday at what she described as the "sarcastic tone" of a reporter's question about the 2016 surgical strikes carried out by the Army on terror launch pads across the LoC.

During a press conference here, a reporter asked her as to why the NDA government was "tom-tomming" the operation two years later.&nbsp;

"I got hurt by the way...In a very sarcastic tone you asked the question," an upset Sitharaman said. "The word you used....'bin bajaye (tom-tomming)...I understand Hindi...."&nbsp;

During the ongoing campaign for Assembly polls in Madhya Pradesh, BJP leaders including party president Amit Shah have repeatedly referred to the surgical strikes of September 2016 in which the Indian Army destroyed terrorist launch pads by crossing the Line of Control.

The reporter had asked her whether it was desirable to go public about the operation and if it was in the soldiers' interest and whether the Congress governments had never carried out such operations.

"Every citizen should glorify it. Should we be ashamed of attacking an enemy? They attacked our jawans with the help of terrorists. We targeted their (terrorists') camp," Sitharaman said.

"We should be proud of the soldiers who laid down their lives for our motherland. We should be proud of them. Should we be ashamed of it?" she asked.

"I got hurt by the way... In a very sarcastic tone, you asked the question...He may not have meant it," she said after other reporters tried to mollify her. 
If Congress governments of the past had ever carried out surgical strikes, the party should have glorified them as it is a matter of pride for the country, the minister said.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman took offence Friday at what she described as the "sarcastic tone" of a reporter's question about the 2016 surgical strikes carried out by the Army on terror launch pads across the LoC.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman took offence Friday at what she described as the "sarcastic tone" of a reporter's question about the 2016 surgical strikes carried out by the Army on terror launch pads across the LoC. During a press conference here, a reporter asked her as to why the NDA government was "tom-tomming" the operation two years later. "I got hurt by the way...In a very sarcastic tone you asked the question," an upset Sitharaman said. "The word you used....'bin bajaye (tom-tomming)...I understand Hindi...." During the ongoing campaign for Assembly polls in Madhya Pradesh, BJP leaders including party president Amit Shah have repeatedly referred to the surgical strikes of September 2016 in which the Indian Army destroyed terrorist launch pads by crossing the Line of Control. The reporter had asked her whether it was desirable to go public about the operation and if it was in the soldiers' interest and whether the Congress governments had never carried out such operations. "Every citizen should glorify it. Should we be ashamed of attacking an enemy? They attacked our jawans with the help of terrorists. We targeted their (terrorists') camp," Sitharaman said. "We should be proud of the soldiers who laid down their lives for our motherland. We should be proud of them. Should we be ashamed of it?" she asked. "I got hurt by the way... In a very sarcastic tone, you asked the question...He may not have meant it," she said after other reporters tried to mollify her. If Congress governments of the past had ever carried out surgical strikes, the party should have glorified them as it is a matter of pride for the country, the minister said.

'I understand Hindi': Sitharaman upset with reporter's 'sarcastic' query on surgical strike

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Wednesday claimed that the BJP has run the government "comparatively better" than the Congress and blamed the opposition party for a "credibility crisis" in politics after Independence.

Talking to reporters in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, Singh asserted that the country was currently witnessing "acche din" (good days) and it was a matter of perception of how people saw it.

He also defended the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government at the Centre over the Rafale jet deal row.

"Indian economy is the fastest growing economy in the world due to the charismatic work of our prime minister (Narendra Modi). India (people) has accepted that BJP is a political party which runs the government comparatively better than the Congress," Singh told reporters here.

"I said comparatively... No political party is perfect, neither are we, I never made such a claim. All political parties have shortcomings. But this (BJP) is a political party which works better, comparatively," he asserted.

In a stinging attack on the Congress, he accused it of creating a "credibility crisis" in the country, saying there was a difference between the party's words and actions.

"I believe that in the history of independent India, the politics of Congress has created a credibility crisis about country's politicians and politics as a whole. This credibility crisis was created due to the difference between words and deeds (of politicians)," Singh said.

To a question on the Rafale deal controversy, he said, "Rafale is Ra-fail. Dassault CEO has already clarified. One can see the reality of these allegations."

"It was alleged that the contract of Rs 30,000 crore was being allotted to one offset partner (of Dassault). But, the truth is that the contract is meant for all offset partners and not for one," he said.

The government had earlier denied allegations of corruption in the deal.

Asked about the construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya, Singh said, "(I think) You are familiar with the development on this issue. I can only say, wait."

On the BJP's promise of bringing "acche din", he said, "Yahi hain acche din, prashna nazariye ka hai (these are the good days, it is a matter of perception)."

Asked about demonetisation, Singh claimed that the government's decision brought transparency into the economy.

"The generation of black money has been stopped. The black money that existed (at the time demonetisation) reached the banks," he said.

The Union minister also claimed that the petrol and diesel prices were going down as the rates depending on crude oil price in the international market.

He refused to comment on the controversies plaguing the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), saying the matter was sub-judice.

The state is scheduled to go to polls on November 28 and results will be declared on December 11.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Wednesday claimed that the BJP has run the government "comparatively better" than the Congress and blamed the opposition party for a "credibility crisis" in politics after Independence.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Wednesday claimed that the BJP has run the government "comparatively better" than the Congress and blamed the opposition party for a "credibility crisis" in politics after Independence. Talking to reporters in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, Singh asserted that the country was currently witnessing "acche din" (good days) and it was a matter of perception of how people saw it. He also defended the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government at the Centre over the Rafale jet deal row. "Indian economy is the fastest growing economy in the world due to the charismatic work of our prime minister (Narendra Modi). India (people) has accepted that BJP is a political party which runs the government comparatively better than the Congress," Singh told reporters here. "I said comparatively... No political party is perfect, neither are we, I never made such a claim. All political parties have shortcomings. But this (BJP) is a political party which works better, comparatively," he asserted. In a stinging attack on the Congress, he accused it of creating a "credibility crisis" in the country, saying there was a difference between the party's words and actions. "I believe that in the history of independent India, the politics of Congress has created a credibility crisis about country's politicians and politics as a whole. This credibility crisis was created due to the difference between words and deeds (of politicians)," Singh said. To a question on the Rafale deal controversy, he said, "Rafale is Ra-fail. Dassault CEO has already clarified. One can see the reality of these allegations." "It was alleged that the contract of Rs 30,000 crore was being allotted to one offset partner (of Dassault). But, the truth is that the contract is meant for all offset partners and not for one," he said. The government had earlier denied allegations of corruption in the deal. Asked about the construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya, Singh said, "(I think) You are familiar with the development on this issue. I can only say, wait." On the BJP's promise of bringing "acche din", he said, "Yahi hain acche din, prashna nazariye ka hai (these are the good days, it is a matter of perception)." Asked about demonetisation, Singh claimed that the government's decision brought transparency into the economy. "The generation of black money has been stopped. The black money that existed (at the time demonetisation) reached the banks," he said. The Union minister also claimed that the petrol and diesel prices were going down as the rates depending on crude oil price in the international market. He refused to comment on the controversies plaguing the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), saying the matter was sub-judice. The state is scheduled to go to polls on November 28 and results will be declared on December 11.

BJP runs government 'comparatively better' than Congress: Rajnath Singh in Madhya Pradesh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday asked people to vote intelligently in the November 28 Assembly poll, asking them to ensure that "not even a single Congress candidate" is elected.

Addressing a poll rally in Rewa, PM Modi reminded voters that Madhya Pradesh has a "double-engine" as BJP is in power in the state and the centre.

Targeting the Nehru-Gandhi family, PM Modi said, "History proves that no dynasty prevails after its fourth generation rule in Delhi and Congress will also meet the same fate".

PM Modi urged people to think for a moment before voting about what Congress has done for them compared to 15 years of BJP rule in the state.

Asking people to be active participants in the development process, PM Modi said, "If people work for 10 hours, then I will work for 11 hours for the country's progress".

PM Modi credited Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan with developing the state. "He is in power for the last 15 years but effectively got only four and a half years as, during rest of the period, the state always fought with the Centre for its rights in the UPA-led regime at the Centre, he said.

"In 55 years (of Congress rule), only 30 MW green energy was generated (in the state) while in our 15-year rule, 4,000 MW renewable energy is being generated," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday asked people to vote intelligently in the November 28 Assembly poll, asking them to ensure that "not even a single Congress candidate" is elected.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday asked people to vote intelligently in the November 28 Assembly poll, asking them to ensure that "not even a single Congress candidate" is elected. Addressing a poll rally in Rewa, PM Modi reminded voters that Madhya Pradesh has a "double-engine" as BJP is in power in the state and the centre. Targeting the Nehru-Gandhi family, PM Modi said, "History proves that no dynasty prevails after its fourth generation rule in Delhi and Congress will also meet the same fate". PM Modi urged people to think for a moment before voting about what Congress has done for them compared to 15 years of BJP rule in the state. Asking people to be active participants in the development process, PM Modi said, "If people work for 10 hours, then I will work for 11 hours for the country's progress". PM Modi credited Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan with developing the state. "He is in power for the last 15 years but effectively got only four and a half years as, during rest of the period, the state always fought with the Centre for its rights in the UPA-led regime at the Centre, he said. "In 55 years (of Congress rule), only 30 MW green energy was generated (in the state) while in our 15-year rule, 4,000 MW renewable energy is being generated," he said.

Make sure no Congress candidate is elected: PM Narendra Modi to Madhya Pradesh voters

BSP supremo Mayawati Tuesday accused the Congress of conspiring against her party by offering it less seats leading to the alliance between the two parties for the Madhya Pradesh polls not taking off.

The state is scheduled to go to polls on November 28 and results will be declared on December 11.

"The Congress is on weak ground in Madhya Pradesh. That is why it had proposed an alliance with the BSP in the state. (But) under a planned strategy and conspiracy, the Congress wanted to finish off the BSP and offered (it) very low number of seats (in the alliance)," Mayawati said Tuesday.

She added that the Bahujan Samaj Party had a strong base in Uttar Pradesh, MP and several other states, and after being offered less seats (by the Congress), her party decided to go it alone in MP.

She did not specify the number of seats the Congress had offered the BSP for MP polls.

The former Uttar Pradesh chief minister was addressing a rally at the BHEL Dussehra Maidan here.

She said a desperate and nervous Congress was now accusing the BSP for the failure to cement an alliance between the two parties.

Attacking the Narendra Modi government, Mayawati claimed people, as well as traders, were unhappy with the way GST and demonetisation were implemented without prior preparation.

She said the two exercises had affected the country's economy, and further poor fiscal policies of the Centre had led to a spike in poverty, unemployment and inflation.

She also lashed out at the Centre for skyrocketing fuel prices.

The BSP supremo accused both the BJP and Congress of ignoring the poor and making policies benefiting capitalists.

She said that reservations, which were given to people due to the efforts of B R Ambedkar, was being gradually eliminated by parties having a "casteist" mentality.

She accused the Congress and the BJP of being responsible for the Mandal Commission report not being implemented.

She pointed out that Ambedkar was bestowed Bharat Ratna (posthumously in 1990) by the government of Prime Minister VP Singh and not by the Congress.

Earlier in the day, Mayawati addressed another election rally in Balaghat.&nbsp;

BSP supremo Mayawati Tuesday accused the Congress of conspiring against her party by offering it less seats leading to the alliance between the two parties for the Madhya Pradesh polls not taking off.

BSP supremo Mayawati Tuesday accused the Congress of conspiring against her party by offering it less seats leading to the alliance between the two parties for the Madhya Pradesh polls not taking off. The state is scheduled to go to polls on November 28 and results will be declared on December 11. "The Congress is on weak ground in Madhya Pradesh. That is why it had proposed an alliance with the BSP in the state. (But) under a planned strategy and conspiracy, the Congress wanted to finish off the BSP and offered (it) very low number of seats (in the alliance)," Mayawati said Tuesday. She added that the Bahujan Samaj Party had a strong base in Uttar Pradesh, MP and several other states, and after being offered less seats (by the Congress), her party decided to go it alone in MP. She did not specify the number of seats the Congress had offered the BSP for MP polls. The former Uttar Pradesh chief minister was addressing a rally at the BHEL Dussehra Maidan here. She said a desperate and nervous Congress was now accusing the BSP for the failure to cement an alliance between the two parties. Attacking the Narendra Modi government, Mayawati claimed people, as well as traders, were unhappy with the way GST and demonetisation were implemented without prior preparation. She said the two exercises had affected the country's economy, and further poor fiscal policies of the Centre had led to a spike in poverty, unemployment and inflation. She also lashed out at the Centre for skyrocketing fuel prices. The BSP supremo accused both the BJP and Congress of ignoring the poor and making policies benefiting capitalists. She said that reservations, which were given to people due to the efforts of B R Ambedkar, was being gradually eliminated by parties having a "casteist" mentality. She accused the Congress and the BJP of being responsible for the Mandal Commission report not being implemented. She pointed out that Ambedkar was bestowed Bharat Ratna (posthumously in 1990) by the government of Prime Minister VP Singh and not by the Congress. Earlier in the day, Mayawati addressed another election rally in Balaghat.

Madhya Pradesh: Congress offered less seats to BSP, Mayawati on failed alliance bid

Opposition leader Sharad Yadav said on Sunday the BJP's hope to return to power at the Centre will be buried in the same states -- Uttar Pradesh and Bihar -- which had propelled it to a big win in 2014, and asserted that the Congress will trump the saffron party in all the five poll-bound states.

The results of the assembly polls, including BJP-ruled Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, will lay the foundation for the Lok Sabha elections next year, he told PTI in an interview.

People want to get rid of the Narendra Modi-led government as it has not fulfilled a single promise made to them in 2014, Yadav claimed.

Accusing Prime Minister Modi of resorting to "sentimental" ploys like raking up his tea-seller background while his party colleagues talk of building Ram temple in Ayodhya, the Loktantrik Janta Dal patron said this shows the BJP has nothing to talk about its government's achievements.

"The Congress is in the driving seats in all the five states. People are under distress and want to defeat the BJP. The results of these (assembly) polls will lay the foundation stone for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections," he said.

Working to forge an alliance of opposition parties and win over new allies against the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance, Yadav said they will be united in 2019.

"The BJP had captured Delhi on the back of its win in the Gangetic plains (Uttar Pradesh and Bihar). Its hope of returning to power in 2019 will be buried in the same plains," he said.

The NDA had won 104 of the 120 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar in 2014 but a likely alliance of the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samajwadi Party has made things much more challenging for the BJP in the politically most crucial state that sends 80 members to the lower house of Parliament.

The BJP has boosted its prospects in Bihar by allying with Chief Minister and Janata Dal (United) president Nitish Kumar, who had fought against it in 2014, but the opposition is working to shore up its support by wooing leaders in the NDA camp.

Yadav had recently met RLSP leader and BJP ally Upendra Kushwaha, and there is speculation that his Loktantrik Janata Dal and the RLSP may merge to boost the opposition alliance.

He declined to comment on the matter but Kushwaha's drift from the NDA is becoming increasingly evident as he said on Saturday that the number of seats offered to him by the BJP for the Lok Sabha polls is not "respectable", setting the deadline of November 30 to the saffron party to sort out the matter.

Attacking Modi for "chasing the Congress with a lathi day in and day out" while "not fulfilling his promises", Yadav said the prime minister rakes up sentimental issues like his tea-seller background to target the main opposition party.

The Congress was defeated in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and the subsequent assembly elections. There cannot be a bigger punishment for a party than this, he said.

"People elected you (BJP) to power and punished them (Congress). Still, you are chasing them with a lathi day in and out. You do not do your work. You attack them (the Congress) everyday but do not fulfil your promises. People have become so distressed," Yadav said.

Whether it was the BJP's promise on generating employment or boosting the economy and cleaning the Ganga river, none of it has been fulfilled, he claimed and alleged that instead, measures like demonetisation hit people hard and the GST "destroyed" small traders.

These are the real issues on the ground, besides distress of farmers and high oil prices, he said while reiterating that the assembly polls will boost the opposition and set the tone for the Lok Sabha polls.

Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram are due on November 26, and in Rajasthan and Telangana on December 7.

Chhattisgarh had gone to the polls for 18 seats on November 12 and polling for the remaining 72 seats will be held on November 20. Counting of votes for all the five states is due on December 11.

Opposition leader Sharad Yadav said on Sunday the BJP's hope to return to power at the Centre will be buried in the same states -- Uttar Pradesh and Bihar -- which had propelled it to a big win in 2014, and asserted that the Congress will trump the saffron party in all the five poll-bound states.

Opposition leader Sharad Yadav said on Sunday the BJP's hope to return to power at the Centre will be buried in the same states -- Uttar Pradesh and Bihar -- which had propelled it to a big win in 2014, and asserted that the Congress will trump the saffron party in all the five poll-bound states. The results of the assembly polls, including BJP-ruled Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, will lay the foundation for the Lok Sabha elections next year, he told PTI in an interview. People want to get rid of the Narendra Modi-led government as it has not fulfilled a single promise made to them in 2014, Yadav claimed. Accusing Prime Minister Modi of resorting to "sentimental" ploys like raking up his tea-seller background while his party colleagues talk of building Ram temple in Ayodhya, the Loktantrik Janta Dal patron said this shows the BJP has nothing to talk about its government's achievements. "The Congress is in the driving seats in all the five states. People are under distress and want to defeat the BJP. The results of these (assembly) polls will lay the foundation stone for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections," he said. Working to forge an alliance of opposition parties and win over new allies against the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance, Yadav said they will be united in 2019. "The BJP had captured Delhi on the back of its win in the Gangetic plains (Uttar Pradesh and Bihar). Its hope of returning to power in 2019 will be buried in the same plains," he said. The NDA had won 104 of the 120 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar in 2014 but a likely alliance of the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samajwadi Party has made things much more challenging for the BJP in the politically most crucial state that sends 80 members to the lower house of Parliament. The BJP has boosted its prospects in Bihar by allying with Chief Minister and Janata Dal (United) president Nitish Kumar, who had fought against it in 2014, but the opposition is working to shore up its support by wooing leaders in the NDA camp. Yadav had recently met RLSP leader and BJP ally Upendra Kushwaha, and there is speculation that his Loktantrik Janata Dal and the RLSP may merge to boost the opposition alliance. He declined to comment on the matter but Kushwaha's drift from the NDA is becoming increasingly evident as he said on Saturday that the number of seats offered to him by the BJP for the Lok Sabha polls is not "respectable", setting the deadline of November 30 to the saffron party to sort out the matter. Attacking Modi for "chasing the Congress with a lathi day in and day out" while "not fulfilling his promises", Yadav said the prime minister rakes up sentimental issues like his tea-seller background to target the main opposition party. The Congress was defeated in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and the subsequent assembly elections. There cannot be a bigger punishment for a party than this, he said. "People elected you (BJP) to power and punished them (Congress). Still, you are chasing them with a lathi day in and out. You do not do your work. You attack them (the Congress) everyday but do not fulfil your promises. People have become so distressed," Yadav said. Whether it was the BJP's promise on generating employment or boosting the economy and cleaning the Ganga river, none of it has been fulfilled, he claimed and alleged that instead, measures like demonetisation hit people hard and the GST "destroyed" small traders. These are the real issues on the ground, besides distress of farmers and high oil prices, he said while reiterating that the assembly polls will boost the opposition and set the tone for the Lok Sabha polls. Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram are due on November 26, and in Rajasthan and Telangana on December 7. Chhattisgarh had gone to the polls for 18 seats on November 12 and polling for the remaining 72 seats will be held on November 20. Counting of votes for all the five states is due on December 11.

Congress in driving seats in state polls, BJP's bid to return to power in 2019 will fail: Sharad Yadav

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