Amid continued violence in West Bengal in the Lok Sabha elections, BJP president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/tmc-govt-undemocratic-nationalist-govt-will-rule-west-bengal-after-may-23-says-bjps-yogi-adityanath-218951">Amit Shah's roadshow at Calcutta University</a> on May 14th caught everyone's attention. Amit Shah in a press conference today alleged that it would have been impossible for him to come out of the roadshow alive if the security forces hadn't shielded him.

Despite the violence, the BJP president continued the roadshow for one and a half hours on the streets of West Bengal. Meanwhile, chief minister Mamata Banerjee and PM Modi have been having heated exchanges in the poll season.

Shah's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/tmc-is-responsible-for-violence-in-west-bengal-during-elections-says-amit-shah-218876">roadshow in Kolkata was attacked</a> on Tuesday after Banerjee had asserted that TMC will take revenge against BJP, PM Modi claimed at a rally.

"Didi's (Mamata) goons carrying guns and bombs are bent upon destruction ... her government is out to destroy everything in the state. People's conviction and courage will evict the torturous rule", the Indian prime minister told a poll rally at Taki on the Indo-Bangla border in North 24 Parganas district.

"Didi is frightened by the rise of BJP in West Bengal. The people of the state had given respect to her&nbsp;by making her the chief minister. But power-drunk Mamata Banerjee is throttling democracy", PM Modi said.

However, TMC’s Derek O’Brien hit out at&nbsp;Shah claiming he&nbsp;had hired goons.

Derek O’Brien attacked the BJP president saying: “It is the saddest press conference that we have held in 21 years. President of BJP hired goons from outside Bengal yesterday. What happened yesterday hurts ethos of Bengal, they have hurt the Bengali sentiments by destroying the statue of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, a Bengali polymath from the Indian subcontinent, and a key figure of the Bengal Renaissance.”

Parts of the city lurched into a flurry of violence as Shah's convoy was attacked with stones allegedly by&nbsp;TMC supporters from inside the hostel of Vidyasagar College, triggering a clash between supporters of the two parties.

Both sides put out videos to push&nbsp;their point of view, TMC videos showed violence being triggered by BJP cadres, on the other hand, BJP president also presented pictures of the police beating BJP participants at the roadshow. &nbsp;

As the political tit-for-tat battle played out in the open, O’Brien alleged that central forces who have been sent on the election duty have been supporting the BJP polling agents at the booths. &nbsp;

West Bengal is a key state in the present Lok Sabha elections with 42 seats on offer. BJP won just two seats here in the last elections in 2014. Early trends suggest BJP may lose 50 per cent seats in Uttar Pradesh which is being led by chief minister Adityanath.

The BJP is, therefore, eyeing a major chunk in West Bengal with at least 20 seats to fill the void and make up the deficit with results due to be announced on May 23rd after the seventh phase of polls on May 19th.

Amid continued violence in West Bengal in the Lok Sabha elections, BJP president Amit Shah's roadshow at Calcutta University on May 14th caught everyone's attention.

Amid continued violence in West Bengal in the Lok Sabha elections, BJP president Amit Shah's roadshow at Calcutta University on May 14th caught everyone's attention. Amit Shah in a press conference today alleged that it would have been impossible for him to come out of the roadshow alive if the security forces hadn't shielded him. Despite the violence, the BJP president continued the roadshow for one and a half hours on the streets of West Bengal. Meanwhile, chief minister Mamata Banerjee and PM Modi have been having heated exchanges in the poll season. Shah's roadshow in Kolkata was attacked on Tuesday after Banerjee had asserted that TMC will take revenge against BJP, PM Modi claimed at a rally. "Didi's (Mamata) goons carrying guns and bombs are bent upon destruction ... her government is out to destroy everything in the state. People's conviction and courage will evict the torturous rule", the Indian prime minister told a poll rally at Taki on the Indo-Bangla border in North 24 Parganas district. "Didi is frightened by the rise of BJP in West Bengal. The people of the state had given respect to her by making her the chief minister. But power-drunk Mamata Banerjee is throttling democracy", PM Modi said. However, TMC’s Derek O’Brien hit out at Shah claiming he had hired goons. Derek O’Brien attacked the BJP president saying: “It is the saddest press conference that we have held in 21 years. President of BJP hired goons from outside Bengal yesterday. What happened yesterday hurts ethos of Bengal, they have hurt the Bengali sentiments by destroying the statue of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, a Bengali polymath from the Indian subcontinent, and a key figure of the Bengal Renaissance.” Parts of the city lurched into a flurry of violence as Shah's convoy was attacked with stones allegedly by TMC supporters from inside the hostel of Vidyasagar College, triggering a clash between supporters of the two parties. Both sides put out videos to push their point of view, TMC videos showed violence being triggered by BJP cadres, on the other hand, BJP president also presented pictures of the police beating BJP participants at the roadshow. As the political tit-for-tat battle played out in the open, O’Brien alleged that central forces who have been sent on the election duty have been supporting the BJP polling agents at the booths. West Bengal is a key state in the present Lok Sabha elections with 42 seats on offer. BJP won just two seats here in the last elections in 2014. Early trends suggest BJP may lose 50 per cent seats in Uttar Pradesh which is being led by chief minister Adityanath. The BJP is, therefore, eyeing a major chunk in West Bengal with at least 20 seats to fill the void and make up the deficit with results due to be announced on May 23rd after the seventh phase of polls on May 19th.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: BJP-TMC row heats up in West Bengal as Amit Shah, PM Modi attack Mamata

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday said that the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-curious-case-of-mamata-banerjee-alternative-to-democracy-is-autocracy-218960&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjYuaPI2Z3iAhULr48KHR5vBzYQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw17o3YuTUrN2ZvPhVP9EFP1">Mamata Banerjee</a> government is out to destroy everything in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/democracy-is-being-murdered-in-west-bengal-devendra-fadnavis-on-clash-during-amit-shah-rally-218855&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjYuaPI2Z3iAhULr48KHR5vBzYQFjAFegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2QU3A8D0NMvxSP7Ub5Obz2">West Bengal</a> and people's conviction and courage will evict the "torturous rule".

The entire nation had seen (on TV) how the roadshow of BJP president Amit Shah was attacked by the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/tmc-is-responsible-for-violence-in-west-bengal-during-elections-says-amit-shah-218876&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjYuaPI2Z3iAhULr48KHR5vBzYQFjAHegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0GnQSNDRJ5t_0zsJChCy_E">TMC</a> goons and is anxiously watching the outcome of the poll results in West Bengal, he said.

Shah's roadshow in Kolkata was attacked Tuesday after Banerjee had asserted that <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/bjp-tmc-battle-out-on-the-streets-mamata-banerjee-protests-in-kolkata-219002&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjTmdzw2Z3iAhVUiXAKHZO_Bt84ChAWMAR6BAgBEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw1O23F4f5TmLs_AC0p5GmhL">TMC will take revenge</a> against BJP, Modi claimed.

"Didi's (Mamata) goons carrying guns and bombs are bent upon destruction ... Her government is out to destroy everything in the state. People's conviction and courage will evict the torturous rule", he told a poll rally at Taki on the Indo-Bangla border in North 24 Parganas district.

"Didi is frightened by the rise of BJP in West Bengal. The people of the state had given respect to here by making her the chief minister. But power-drunk Mamata Banerjee is throttling democracy", Modi said.

Keeping up his attack on Banerjee, Modi said, "You have looted peoples' money in the chit fund scam and when they sought explanations you abused them".

"Democracy has given you the chief minister's chair and you are killing it. The entire country is watching your misdeeds...Didi should not be kept in power. In the last four to five years she has shown her colours", Modi added.

He held Banerjee responsible for destroying the state's culture of 'Bhadra Lok'.

The people of Bengal have made up their mind to end the Banerjee's "despotic rule" he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday said that the Mamata Banerjee government is out to destroy everything in West Bengal and people's conviction and courage will evict the "torturous rule".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday said that the Mamata Banerjee government is out to destroy everything in West Bengal and people's conviction and courage will evict the "torturous rule". The entire nation had seen (on TV) how the roadshow of BJP president Amit Shah was attacked by the TMC goons and is anxiously watching the outcome of the poll results in West Bengal, he said. Shah's roadshow in Kolkata was attacked Tuesday after Banerjee had asserted that TMC will take revenge against BJP, Modi claimed. "Didi's (Mamata) goons carrying guns and bombs are bent upon destruction ... Her government is out to destroy everything in the state. People's conviction and courage will evict the torturous rule", he told a poll rally at Taki on the Indo-Bangla border in North 24 Parganas district. "Didi is frightened by the rise of BJP in West Bengal. The people of the state had given respect to here by making her the chief minister. But power-drunk Mamata Banerjee is throttling democracy", Modi said. Keeping up his attack on Banerjee, Modi said, "You have looted peoples' money in the chit fund scam and when they sought explanations you abused them". "Democracy has given you the chief minister's chair and you are killing it. The entire country is watching your misdeeds...Didi should not be kept in power. In the last four to five years she has shown her colours", Modi added. He held Banerjee responsible for destroying the state's culture of 'Bhadra Lok'. The people of Bengal have made up their mind to end the Banerjee's "despotic rule" he said.

Mamata Banerjee government out to destroy everything in West Bengal: PM Modi

A day after the Trinamool Congress and BJP workers clashed in West Bengal, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee organised a roadshow in Kolkata to protest against the violence and vandalism during Amit Shah's roadshow in the state capital.

BJP-TMC battle out on the streets, Mamata Banerjee protests in Kolkata

Mamata Banerjee is, undoubtedly, a fierce leader who has ruled West Bengal for quite a long time now. She has taken the BJP head-on in this election and has been instrumental in uniting all like-minded Opposition parties to take on the Saffron party and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

However, her dominance&nbsp;has done evident harm to the prospects of 'Mahagathbandhan'.&nbsp;Didi&nbsp;is considered to be the main reason behind Congress president Rahul Gandhi not being declared the prime ministerial candidate of the united opposition despite approvals from several leaders. She wants to be in the driver seat herself.

Mamata doesn't mince words while attacking the ruling party and its leaders. The friction between Didi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi has escalated this election. She declared that TMC will lead in throwing out the NDA government from power and forming the new government at the Centre.

She termed Modi as 'dictator' and 'expiry PM'. The West Bengal chief minister, who accuses the Modi government of being fascist in nature, used her power to get a 25-year-oldBJP activist&nbsp;arrested for posting a meme on her.

The meme was harmless and funny that showed Mamata Banerjee's face fixed on Priyanka Chopra picture from the Met Gala event. Legal experts say neither the meme was obscene nor explicit in nature. Priyanka Sharma's counsel Neeraj Kishen Paul pointed out, and rightly so, that meme is a form of “evolving caricature, humour and political satire”.

The Supreme Court granted bail to BJP worker Priyanka Sharma on Tuesday. However, the activist was forced to stay in the custody despite having bail been granted 18 hours earlier. Following the delay in her release, the top court on Wednesday termed the activist's arrest as "Prima facie arbitrary” and censured the West Bengal government and the police.

After her release, Priyanka told the media persons that she was forced to sign an apology by the police, saying that she won't post such memes again.

The clampdown on voices critical of the West Bengal government is not new.&nbsp;

In March, the chief minister faced backlash after a political satire was withdrawn from theatres by the state government. The movie was slightly critical of Mamata. The Supreme Court had to intervene in that matter and direct the state government to ensure a smooth run of the movie 'Bhobishyoter Bhoot' across the state. The top court also imposed a fine of Rs 20 lakh on the state government.

In 2012, a professor of Javadpur University, Professor Mahapatra and his neighbour, were arrested for posting on social media a cartoon of Mamata Banerjee. The professor was also assaulted allegedly by TMC workers.

It's hypocritical of the West Bengal chief minister to portray herself as an ambassador of 'free speech' and accuse&nbsp;the BJP of being fascist when she herself gets people arrested over cartoons and memes.

Cartoons and movies are a medium of expression in a democracy which Mamata Banerjee is yet to understand. TMC's crackdown on freedom speech is, indeed, alarming. Didi may disagree but can't be autocratic.

 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

Mamata Banerjee is, undoubtedly, a fierce leader who has ruled West Bengal for quite a long time now. She has taken the BJP head-on in this election and has been instrumental in uniting all like-minded Opposition parties to take on the Saffron party and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Mamata Banerjee is, undoubtedly, a fierce leader who has ruled West Bengal for quite a long time now. She has taken the BJP head-on in this election and has been instrumental in uniting all like-minded Opposition parties to take on the Saffron party and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, her dominance has done evident harm to the prospects of 'Mahagathbandhan'. Didi is considered to be the main reason behind Congress president Rahul Gandhi not being declared the prime ministerial candidate of the united opposition despite approvals from several leaders. She wants to be in the driver seat herself. Mamata doesn't mince words while attacking the ruling party and its leaders. The friction between Didi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi has escalated this election. She declared that TMC will lead in throwing out the NDA government from power and forming the new government at the Centre. She termed Modi as 'dictator' and 'expiry PM'. The West Bengal chief minister, who accuses the Modi government of being fascist in nature, used her power to get a 25-year-oldBJP activist arrested for posting a meme on her. The meme was harmless and funny that showed Mamata Banerjee's face fixed on Priyanka Chopra picture from the Met Gala event. Legal experts say neither the meme was obscene nor explicit in nature. Priyanka Sharma's counsel Neeraj Kishen Paul pointed out, and rightly so, that meme is a form of “evolving caricature, humour and political satire”. The Supreme Court granted bail to BJP worker Priyanka Sharma on Tuesday. However, the activist was forced to stay in the custody despite having bail been granted 18 hours earlier. Following the delay in her release, the top court on Wednesday termed the activist's arrest as "Prima facie arbitrary” and censured the West Bengal government and the police. After her release, Priyanka told the media persons that she was forced to sign an apology by the police, saying that she won't post such memes again. The clampdown on voices critical of the West Bengal government is not new. In March, the chief minister faced backlash after a political satire was withdrawn from theatres by the state government. The movie was slightly critical of Mamata. The Supreme Court had to intervene in that matter and direct the state government to ensure a smooth run of the movie 'Bhobishyoter Bhoot' across the state. The top court also imposed a fine of Rs 20 lakh on the state government. In 2012, a professor of Javadpur University, Professor Mahapatra and his neighbour, were arrested for posting on social media a cartoon of Mamata Banerjee. The professor was also assaulted allegedly by TMC workers. It's hypocritical of the West Bengal chief minister to portray herself as an ambassador of 'free speech' and accuse the BJP of being fascist when she herself gets people arrested over cartoons and memes. Cartoons and movies are a medium of expression in a democracy which Mamata Banerjee is yet to understand. TMC's crackdown on freedom speech is, indeed, alarming. Didi may disagree but can't be autocratic. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Mamata Banerjee meme row: The alternative to democracy is autocracy

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/adityanath-calls-christian-michel-shakuni-mama-of-rahul-gandhi-218828&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiBsevUq53iAhWBpY8KHS_3A5gQFjAAegQICBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0v8WzaRPu0kSOpYQpidYtj">Yogi Adityanath</a> on Wednesday slammed <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/supreme-court-directs-priyanka-sharma-to-apologise-mamata-banerjee-says-we-can-grant-bail-but-she-has-to-apologise-218593&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwijydqPrJ3iAhUjTI8KHZC9CE4QFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw12vIxVG2FurnniC3k1oNJq">West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee</a> for allegedly fanning violence during Amit Shah's roadshow on Tuesday, saying it 'was a murder of democracy.'

"It was a murder of democracy. This move by goons will end the TMC government in the state. In a few days, TMC goons will be searching for shelters to hide their faces. Mamata Banerjee is frustrated which is why she is taking such steps," he said addressing a public rally in Barasat.

He also alleged that the Chief Minister is trying to block the term 'Ram'&nbsp;in the state and added, "She is emboldening goons."

Yogi also rakes up the ban imposed on Durga Puja by the government last year saying, while the whole nation observed Durga Puja and Muharram together, as their dates had clashed, only West Bengal government banned the celebration of Durga Puja.

"The whole country including Uttar Pradesh observed Durga pooja and Muharram together. No violence took place in my state as I had given prior warning to people. Why could not West Bengal do the same? TMC government here is very undemocratic. I am sure that after May 23, a nationalist government will be formed and will rule West Bengal," he said.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/yogi-adityanath-likens-akhilesh-to-aurangzeb-says-dethroned-his-father-217780&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwigrof9q53iAhVBbn0KHR9gDbMQFjADegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3PFhn-2chSm-9R2fVTa6Sj">The Uttar Pradesh CM</a> ended his speech shouting the slogan 'Pura Bharat Dol Raha Hain, Modi Modi Bol Raha Hain', indicating that his political quarter will sweep the ongoing Lok Sabha polls.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/unfortunate-congress-is-contesting-polls-only-to-cut-bjps-vote-share-adityanath-218507&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiBsevUq53iAhWBpY8KHS_3A5gQFjAHegQICRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0xIbi76PGTIWq-r9I0yu0B">Adityanath's </a>statement came just days before nine seats are scheduled to go to polls in West Bengal on May 19.

The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday slammed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for allegedly fanning violence during Amit Shah's roadshow on Tuesday, saying it 'was a murder of democracy.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday slammed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for allegedly fanning violence during Amit Shah's roadshow on Tuesday, saying it 'was a murder of democracy.' "It was a murder of democracy. This move by goons will end the TMC government in the state. In a few days, TMC goons will be searching for shelters to hide their faces. Mamata Banerjee is frustrated which is why she is taking such steps," he said addressing a public rally in Barasat. He also alleged that the Chief Minister is trying to block the term 'Ram' in the state and added, "She is emboldening goons." Yogi also rakes up the ban imposed on Durga Puja by the government last year saying, while the whole nation observed Durga Puja and Muharram together, as their dates had clashed, only West Bengal government banned the celebration of Durga Puja. "The whole country including Uttar Pradesh observed Durga pooja and Muharram together. No violence took place in my state as I had given prior warning to people. Why could not West Bengal do the same? TMC government here is very undemocratic. I am sure that after May 23, a nationalist government will be formed and will rule West Bengal," he said. The Uttar Pradesh CM ended his speech shouting the slogan 'Pura Bharat Dol Raha Hain, Modi Modi Bol Raha Hain', indicating that his political quarter will sweep the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. Adityanath's statement came just days before nine seats are scheduled to go to polls in West Bengal on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

TMC undemocratic; nationalist government will rule West Bengal after May 23: Adityanath

India's Home Ministry has written to the Election Commission about West Bengal poll violence and has expressed concern on continuing elections in West Bengal. Watch full video to know more.

Home Ministry writes to Election Commission about West Bengal poll violence

BJP Youth Wing Convenor Priyanka Sharma who was arrested for sharing a meme on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee: My bail was granted yesterday, but still I wasn't released for another 18 hours. They didn't allow me to meet my advocate & family. They made me sign an apology. Watch full video to know more.

Why was BJP worker Priyanka Sharma's release delayed?

BJP President Amit Shah has accused TMC of triggering violence in West Bengal. Watch full video to know more.

Amit Shah accuse TMC of triggering violence in West Bengal

This segment offers you with all the latest updates on campaigns for the last phase of India general elections.

India general elections wrap: PM Modi's campaign blitz

The Supreme Court on Tuesday granted bail to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/my-daughter-got-arrested-because-she-used-to-work-for-bjp-priyankas-mother-218086">BJP&nbsp;worker Priyanka Sharma</a>, who was arrested for sharing a morphed picture of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. While the apex court first asked the BJP worker to apologise to Mamata Banerjee, the condition was later waived off.

"Subject to Priyanka Sharma tendering an apology in writing for putting up an objectionable picture on Facebook account, she shall be immediately released. At the time of release, she shall tender an apology in writing," a vacation bench comprising Justices Indira Banerjee and Sanjiv Khanna said in its previous order.

The court called back Sharma's lawyer Neeraj Kishan Kaul and informed him that it was waiving the condition of apology.

Senior advocate Kaul, during the hearing, contended that asking for an apology will amount to infringement of the Right to Freedom of Speech.

Meanwhile, family members of the youth wing worker celebrated the decision of the apex court.

Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) youth wing convenor Priyanka Sharma was arrested on Friday after she was accused of sharing a morphed photo of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on social media.

Following her arrest, Priyanka was&nbsp;sent to jail for 14 days.

This is not the first time that Banerjee took action against someone who took a dig at her. In 2012, Professor Ambikesh Mahapatra of the Jadavpur University was arrested for forwarding a cartoon of the chief minister. In the same year, she had also termed a student "Maoist" for questioning her government`s policies.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Supreme Court on Tuesday granted bail to BJP worker Priyanka Sharma, who was arrested for sharing a morphed picture of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday granted bail to BJP worker Priyanka Sharma, who was arrested for sharing a morphed picture of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. While the apex court first asked the BJP worker to apologise to Mamata Banerjee, the condition was later waived off. "Subject to Priyanka Sharma tendering an apology in writing for putting up an objectionable picture on Facebook account, she shall be immediately released. At the time of release, she shall tender an apology in writing," a vacation bench comprising Justices Indira Banerjee and Sanjiv Khanna said in its previous order. The court called back Sharma's lawyer Neeraj Kishan Kaul and informed him that it was waiving the condition of apology. Senior advocate Kaul, during the hearing, contended that asking for an apology will amount to infringement of the Right to Freedom of Speech. Meanwhile, family members of the youth wing worker celebrated the decision of the apex court. Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) youth wing convenor Priyanka Sharma was arrested on Friday after she was accused of sharing a morphed photo of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on social media. Following her arrest, Priyanka was sent to jail for 14 days. This is not the first time that Banerjee took action against someone who took a dig at her. In 2012, Professor Ambikesh Mahapatra of the Jadavpur University was arrested for forwarding a cartoon of the chief minister. In the same year, she had also termed a student "Maoist" for questioning her government`s policies. (With inputs from agencies)

Mamata's meme: Supreme Court grants bail to BJP worker Priyanka Sharma, waives apology condition

The long electoral exercise is heading towards an end in India, with only the seventh and last phase of voting remaining. The politicians are now eagerly waiting for election results, scheduled to be announced on May 23.

But before the results are out, tongues are wagging and regional leaders - who many say will hold the key to government formation - are predicting not-so-bright future for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

One such politician is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/bjp-will-see-reduced-seat-count-in-up-draw-blank-in-seven-other-states-mamata-banerjee-217832">West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee</a> who said that the BJP will not win more than 150 seats in the Lok Sabha elections.

On the campaign trail, she spoke to Zee 24 Ghanta, Zee Media's Bengali language channel. "I have attended more than 100 meetings and undertook pad yatras (march on foot) in this heatwave. I think I am dehydrated," said Banerjee, smiling. But as the conversation moved towards election results and BJP's future, she turned combative.

"The BJP formed the government in 2014 because of the high number of seats it won in Uttar Pradesh. They won 73 out of 80 Lok Sabha seats in the state. But this time, they will not get more than 17 seats in UP. The alliance of Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati will win 55 seats, so if you deduct 55 from 73, you'll get the actual number of seats that BJP will get," Banerjee told Zee 24 Ghanta.

"The BJP's tally will reduce to half in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. So how will they come back to power?" Banerjee added.

When asked if Congress will support a PM face from regional parties, Banerjee said, "The regional parties will get more seats than the BJP and the Congress. If there is such a situation, we can ask for Congress's support. We want to make a stable government." At the same time, she also ruled out supporting BJP in case there is a need. "I don't know how BJP is saying it will win all 42 seats in West Bengal? Everything will be clear on May 23. But the TMC will never support BJP," said Banerjee.

"If someone gives love, we are ready to wash dishes at that person's house. But if someone threatens us, we will not spare that person," added Banerjee.

Banerjee has been instrumental in forging the 'Mahagathbandhan', a group of like-minded parties who have come together to stop the BJP from forming the government. She, along with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, has met leaders of various parties to take on the BJP.

Nine constituencies of West Bengal will vote in the final phase of the seven-phased Lok Sabha election on May 19. The staggered election exercise has seen more than seven weeks of campaigning.

The long electoral exercise is heading towards an end in India, with only the seventh and last phase of voting remaining. The politicians are now eagerly waiting for election results, scheduled to be announced on May 23.

The long electoral exercise is heading towards an end in India, with only the seventh and last phase of voting remaining. The politicians are now eagerly waiting for election results, scheduled to be announced on May 23. But before the results are out, tongues are wagging and regional leaders - who many say will hold the key to government formation - are predicting not-so-bright future for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). One such politician is West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee who said that the BJP will not win more than 150 seats in the Lok Sabha elections. On the campaign trail, she spoke to Zee 24 Ghanta, Zee Media's Bengali language channel. "I have attended more than 100 meetings and undertook pad yatras (march on foot) in this heatwave. I think I am dehydrated," said Banerjee, smiling. But as the conversation moved towards election results and BJP's future, she turned combative. "The BJP formed the government in 2014 because of the high number of seats it won in Uttar Pradesh. They won 73 out of 80 Lok Sabha seats in the state. But this time, they will not get more than 17 seats in UP. The alliance of Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati will win 55 seats, so if you deduct 55 from 73, you'll get the actual number of seats that BJP will get," Banerjee told Zee 24 Ghanta. "The BJP's tally will reduce to half in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. So how will they come back to power?" Banerjee added. When asked if Congress will support a PM face from regional parties, Banerjee said, "The regional parties will get more seats than the BJP and the Congress. If there is such a situation, we can ask for Congress's support. We want to make a stable government." At the same time, she also ruled out supporting BJP in case there is a need. "I don't know how BJP is saying it will win all 42 seats in West Bengal? Everything will be clear on May 23. But the TMC will never support BJP," said Banerjee. "If someone gives love, we are ready to wash dishes at that person's house. But if someone threatens us, we will not spare that person," added Banerjee. Banerjee has been instrumental in forging the 'Mahagathbandhan', a group of like-minded parties who have come together to stop the BJP from forming the government. She, along with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, has met leaders of various parties to take on the BJP. Nine constituencies of West Bengal will vote in the final phase of the seven-phased Lok Sabha election on May 19. The staggered election exercise has seen more than seven weeks of campaigning.

BJP will not get more than 150 seats in Lok Sabha polls: Mamata Banerjee

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/west-bengal-government-stops-amit-shah-from-holding-rally-in-jadavpur-bjp-chief-cries-foul-218367">BJP president Amit Shah on Monday</a> dared West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to arrest him for chanting 'Jai Shri Ram', claiming that the TMC supremo can stop him from attending rallies in Bengal but not BJP's victory march in the state.

Addressing a rally in Joynagar Lok Sabha constituency, he said Banerjee has turned "sonar Bangla (golden Bengal) into kangal (pauper) Bangla".

"Mamata didi gets angry if someone chants 'Jai Shri Ram'. I am chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' here today, if you (Mamata) have the guts, arrest me. I will be in Kolkata tomorrow." 
A video clip showing Banerjee fuming at people for chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' in Ghatal Lok Sabha seat went viral on social media recently.

Hitting out at the TMC government for denying him permission to land his chopper at Baruipur in Jadavpur Lok Sabha seat, Shah said, "The Mamata Banerjee government is visibly perplexed. She wants to stop me from attending rallies. Can you (Banerjee) prevent your defeat this way?"

The TMC can stop me from attending rallies but can't stop the victory march of the BJP in Bengal," he maintained.

Shah's scheduled rally in Jadavpur was called off on Monday after the state government denied him permission to land his chopper and hold the public address at Baruipur area.

Referring to infiltrators as "termites", who are eating into the resources of this country, the BJP boss said his party will throw them out from Bengal after coming to power at the Centre for a second term.

"We will restore the glory of Bengal. Mamata Banerjee has turned Sonar (golden) Bangla into Kangal (pauper) Bangla. She is only interested in protecting infiltrators to secure her vote bank. But her vote bank won't be able to save her from imminent defeat," he asserted.

Alleging that Banerjee, who is vehemently opposed to the contentious NRC, was misleading people, he vowed to implement it across the country after winning the polls. 
The National Register of Citizens (NRC) aims to separate genuine citizens from illegal immigrants.

"After May 23, we will bring citizenship (Amendment) Bill to grant citizenship to our refugee brothers from Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, and Jain community," he said.

Maintaining that Modi has been working for the development of the country, Shah said the opposition parties are working to secure the future of their families.

"The opposition leaders are trying to secure the future of their relatives - be it brother, husband, son, son-in-law or nephew. But Modi is working only to secure the future of the country. I have been touring the entire country, chants of 'Phir Ekbar Modi Sarkar' (Modi government, once again) are resonating everywhere," he said.

Lashing out at the chief minister for allegedly running a "syndicate raj" in the state, the BJP president claimed that the TMC works to benefit the CM's nephew, Abhishek Banerjee.

"Earlier it was syndicate tax, now it has been replaced by nephew tax. We have to throw out this corrupt government of Bua-Bhatija (Aunt and Nephew). We will defeat this corrupt regime," he stated.

Shah also iterated that Banerjee, along with other opposition leaders, is keen on holding talks with Pakistan, even after the Pulwama attack in Kashmir.

"If you are interested in holding a dialogue with Pakistan, you can go ahead. We will respond to their bullets with cannon balls," Shah said.

He accused Mamata Banerjee of trying to hinder Durga Puja and Saraswati Puja celebrations in the state, stating that the CM was trying to use religion as a political tool.

"If Bengalis do not conduct Durga Puja and Saraswati Puja here, will they conduct it in Pakistan? The people of Bengal will give a befitting reply to Mamata Banerjee in this election," he said.

The state, which was once known for Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore's songs, has become a hub of illegal "bomb and gun making factories", Shah claimed.

"Under the TMC rule all three - mother, motherland and people are suffering," he said, referring to the 'Ma, Maati and Manush' slogan of West Bengal's ruling party.&nbsp;

BJP president Amit Shah on Monday dared West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to arrest him for chanting 'Jai Shri Ram', claiming that the TMC supremo can stop him from attending rallies in Bengal but not BJP's victory march in the state.

BJP president Amit Shah on Monday dared West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to arrest him for chanting 'Jai Shri Ram', claiming that the TMC supremo can stop him from attending rallies in Bengal but not BJP's victory march in the state. Addressing a rally in Joynagar Lok Sabha constituency, he said Banerjee has turned "sonar Bangla (golden Bengal) into kangal (pauper) Bangla". "Mamata didi gets angry if someone chants 'Jai Shri Ram'. I am chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' here today, if you (Mamata) have the guts, arrest me. I will be in Kolkata tomorrow." A video clip showing Banerjee fuming at people for chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' in Ghatal Lok Sabha seat went viral on social media recently. Hitting out at the TMC government for denying him permission to land his chopper at Baruipur in Jadavpur Lok Sabha seat, Shah said, "The Mamata Banerjee government is visibly perplexed. She wants to stop me from attending rallies. Can you (Banerjee) prevent your defeat this way?" The TMC can stop me from attending rallies but can't stop the victory march of the BJP in Bengal," he maintained. Shah's scheduled rally in Jadavpur was called off on Monday after the state government denied him permission to land his chopper and hold the public address at Baruipur area. Referring to infiltrators as "termites", who are eating into the resources of this country, the BJP boss said his party will throw them out from Bengal after coming to power at the Centre for a second term. "We will restore the glory of Bengal. Mamata Banerjee has turned Sonar (golden) Bangla into Kangal (pauper) Bangla. She is only interested in protecting infiltrators to secure her vote bank. But her vote bank won't be able to save her from imminent defeat," he asserted. Alleging that Banerjee, who is vehemently opposed to the contentious NRC, was misleading people, he vowed to implement it across the country after winning the polls. The National Register of Citizens (NRC) aims to separate genuine citizens from illegal immigrants. "After May 23, we will bring citizenship (Amendment) Bill to grant citizenship to our refugee brothers from Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, and Jain community," he said. Maintaining that Modi has been working for the development of the country, Shah said the opposition parties are working to secure the future of their families. "The opposition leaders are trying to secure the future of their relatives - be it brother, husband, son, son-in-law or nephew. But Modi is working only to secure the future of the country. I have been touring the entire country, chants of 'Phir Ekbar Modi Sarkar' (Modi government, once again) are resonating everywhere," he said. Lashing out at the chief minister for allegedly running a "syndicate raj" in the state, the BJP president claimed that the TMC works to benefit the CM's nephew, Abhishek Banerjee. "Earlier it was syndicate tax, now it has been replaced by nephew tax. We have to throw out this corrupt government of Bua-Bhatija (Aunt and Nephew). We will defeat this corrupt regime," he stated. Shah also iterated that Banerjee, along with other opposition leaders, is keen on holding talks with Pakistan, even after the Pulwama attack in Kashmir. "If you are interested in holding a dialogue with Pakistan, you can go ahead. We will respond to their bullets with cannon balls," Shah said. He accused Mamata Banerjee of trying to hinder Durga Puja and Saraswati Puja celebrations in the state, stating that the CM was trying to use religion as a political tool. "If Bengalis do not conduct Durga Puja and Saraswati Puja here, will they conduct it in Pakistan? The people of Bengal will give a befitting reply to Mamata Banerjee in this election," he said. The state, which was once known for Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore's songs, has become a hub of illegal "bomb and gun making factories", Shah claimed. "Under the TMC rule all three - mother, motherland and people are suffering," he said, referring to the 'Ma, Maati and Manush' slogan of West Bengal's ruling party.

Trinamool Congress can stop me from attending rallies, not BJP's victory: Amit Shah

BJP's President Amit Shah was supposed to hold three rallies in the state but his Jadavpur rally cancelled after not getting permission for same. Watch this video to know more.

BJP: TMC scared that Mamata's nephew may lose polls

Election Commission of India (EC) has declared "void", the polls held on May 6 at polling station no-116 in Barrackpur parliamentary constituency and polling station no-110 in Arambag parliamentary constituency of West Bengal.

Re-polling for these polling stations will be held on May 12 from 7 am to 6 pm, an order issued by EC on Friday said.

"After taking all material circumstances into account, the Election Commission of India hereby declares under Sub-Sections (2) of Section 58 of clause (b) under the Representation of the People Act, 1951 that the poll taken on May 6, 2019, for the aforesaid election at following polling stations (polling station no-116 in Barrackpur and polling station no-110 in Arambag) to be void," EC said in its order to Chief Electoral Officer of the West Bengal.

The ECI directed the Officer to ensure that wide publicity is given in the polling areas. It also directed the official to inform political parties and contesting candidates about the fresh poll.

Prior to this, EC on May 09 had declared "void", the polls held at one polling station in Puducherry on April 18 and polls held at 168 polling stations in Tripura West parliamentary constituency on April 11 and ordered re-polling for all these polling stations to be held on May 12.

Seven seats of West Bengal went to polls in the fifth phase on May 6. The counting of votes will be held on May 23.

Election Commission of India (EC) has declared "void", the polls held on May 6 at polling station no-116 in Barrackpur parliamentary constituency and polling station no-110 in Arambag parliamentary constituency of West Bengal.

Election Commission of India (EC) has declared "void", the polls held on May 6 at polling station no-116 in Barrackpur parliamentary constituency and polling station no-110 in Arambag parliamentary constituency of West Bengal. Re-polling for these polling stations will be held on May 12 from 7 am to 6 pm, an order issued by EC on Friday said. "After taking all material circumstances into account, the Election Commission of India hereby declares under Sub-Sections (2) of Section 58 of clause (b) under the Representation of the People Act, 1951 that the poll taken on May 6, 2019, for the aforesaid election at following polling stations (polling station no-116 in Barrackpur and polling station no-110 in Arambag) to be void," EC said in its order to Chief Electoral Officer of the West Bengal. The ECI directed the Officer to ensure that wide publicity is given in the polling areas. It also directed the official to inform political parties and contesting candidates about the fresh poll. Prior to this, EC on May 09 had declared "void", the polls held at one polling station in Puducherry on April 18 and polls held at 168 polling stations in Tripura West parliamentary constituency on April 11 and ordered re-polling for all these polling stations to be held on May 12. Seven seats of West Bengal went to polls in the fifth phase on May 6. The counting of votes will be held on May 23.

Election Commission orders re-polling at two polling stations in West Bengal on May 12

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Saturday claimed that BJP will see a reduced seat count in Uttar Pradesh and draw a blank in seven other states and the party and Prime Minister Narendra Modi are losing confidence about winning the ongoing Lok Sabha polls.

She said BJP is looking at West Bengal for votes as it has fared badly in the last five phases of the Lok Sabha polls.

"Where will BJP get the numbers from? In Uttar Pradesh, its seat count will reduce from 73 to 13 or 17. In other states like Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Punjab and Odisha the party will draw a blank. Its seats will reduce in Madhya Pradesh also", Banerjee claimed while addressing a public meeting here in support of Trinamool Congress candidate Nusrat Jahan.

Modi is losing confidence, she said and urged the electorate not to vote for BJP.

"In Bengal, Trinamool Congress should win all the 42 seats which will help it to have some control in the formation of the new government," Banerjee who has been claiming that her party would play an important role at the Centre after the general elections, said.

"We do not want BJP. Show the door to the party through votes," the Trinamool Congress supremo said.

She alleged that BJP, Congress and CPI(M) are of the same ilk. "Some people are supporting BJP in the morning, Congress in the afternoon and CPI(M) in the night. So voting any of the three will be a waste. Vote for TMC, it is the only party which has the guts to fight BJP.

"BJP has kept the entire country petrified. Captured institutions like RBI, CBI, Income Tax and the ED... Instead of giving food, shelter and clothing, it has dismantled Planning Commission with Niti Aayog and shown how to create riots ... It started cow vigilantism and lynching syndicates", she said.

Modi and BJP president Amit Shah have often attacked the TMC by accusing it of running 'syndicates raj'.

Continuing her tirade against Modi, Banerjee said in the last parliamentary polls he had said a lot of things and became the prime minister. "But what work has he done in the last five years?"

Prices of commodities had risen during BJP's rule and are going to increase more after the elections.

"The BJP has forgotten Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose who gave the Jai Hind slogan. Nathuram Godse (who killed Mahatma Gandhi) is now its leader," she added.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Saturday claimed that BJP will see a reduced seat count in Uttar Pradesh and draw a blank in seven other states and the party and Prime Minister Narendra Modi are losing confidence about winning the ongoing Lok Sabha polls.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Saturday claimed that BJP will see a reduced seat count in Uttar Pradesh and draw a blank in seven other states and the party and Prime Minister Narendra Modi are losing confidence about winning the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. She said BJP is looking at West Bengal for votes as it has fared badly in the last five phases of the Lok Sabha polls. "Where will BJP get the numbers from? In Uttar Pradesh, its seat count will reduce from 73 to 13 or 17. In other states like Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Punjab and Odisha the party will draw a blank. Its seats will reduce in Madhya Pradesh also", Banerjee claimed while addressing a public meeting here in support of Trinamool Congress candidate Nusrat Jahan. Modi is losing confidence, she said and urged the electorate not to vote for BJP. "In Bengal, Trinamool Congress should win all the 42 seats which will help it to have some control in the formation of the new government," Banerjee who has been claiming that her party would play an important role at the Centre after the general elections, said. "We do not want BJP. Show the door to the party through votes," the Trinamool Congress supremo said. She alleged that BJP, Congress and CPI(M) are of the same ilk. "Some people are supporting BJP in the morning, Congress in the afternoon and CPI(M) in the night. So voting any of the three will be a waste. Vote for TMC, it is the only party which has the guts to fight BJP. "BJP has kept the entire country petrified. Captured institutions like RBI, CBI, Income Tax and the ED... Instead of giving food, shelter and clothing, it has dismantled Planning Commission with Niti Aayog and shown how to create riots ... It started cow vigilantism and lynching syndicates", she said. Modi and BJP president Amit Shah have often attacked the TMC by accusing it of running 'syndicates raj'. Continuing her tirade against Modi, Banerjee said in the last parliamentary polls he had said a lot of things and became the prime minister. "But what work has he done in the last five years?" Prices of commodities had risen during BJP's rule and are going to increase more after the elections. "The BJP has forgotten Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose who gave the Jai Hind slogan. Nathuram Godse (who killed Mahatma Gandhi) is now its leader," she added.

BJP will see reduced seat count in UP, draw blank in seven other states: Mamata Banerjee

In this segment of India Election Watch. In every phase of Lok Sabha election 2019, West Bengal is facing violence. The tussle between PM Modi and West Bengal CM Mamta Banrjee prevails.

IEW: Battle for Bengal, the most critical of 2019?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday took a jibe at West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamta Banerjee for saying she doesn't consider him as the country's prime minister.

"If you don't consider me as a leader, I can understand. But Prime Minister's post is a constitutional post. You consider Pakistan's prime minister as PM, but India's Prime Minister is not PM for you. This is an insult to the Indian constitution," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/bjp-will-win-lok-sabha-polls-opposition-can-keep-dreaming-pm-modi-to-wion-217331">PM Modi told WION Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary</a>.

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The jibe comes days after Mamata Banerjee said in an election rally that she refused a meeting with Narendra Modi over Cyclone Fani as she does not consider him the country's prime minister.

"I do not consider him the country's prime minister, hence, I did not sit for the meeting. I do not want to be seen with him on the same platform. I will speak to the next prime minister. We can take care of the cyclone damage by ourselves. We do not need the Centre's help ahead of polls," she said in Jhargram on Monday.

At an election rally in West Bengal's Bankura, PM Modi said, "One can easily gauge the level of her anxiety hearing the language she has been using. Now she talks of stones and slaps for me... I am used to abusive language and have inculcated a power to digest all the slangs present in dictionaries around the world. But Didi is now in a frenzied condition. She is even insulting the Constitution of the country."

Modi also accused Banerjee of destroying West Bengal for "the sake of her addiction of power in the state".

"Now, she is further bent on destroying the state out of fear of losing her power. She is not bothered about 'Ma Maati Maanush' but her own benefits, the seat of power and also her relatives, nephew and extortionists," he said.

The Prime Minister also reiterated his earlier accusation that the Trinamool Congress chief neither received nor returned his calls to assess the losses inflicted by Cyclone Fani last week.

The rivalry between BJP and TMC has been the talking point in West Bengal politics with the workers of both party's clashing on several occasions. During his campaign, Modi alleged that the TMC government "made efforts to stop his rally, but failed".

&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday took a jibe at West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamta Banerjee for saying she doesn't consider him as the country's prime minister.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday took a jibe at West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamta Banerjee for saying she doesn't consider him as the country's prime minister. "If you don't consider me as a leader, I can understand. But Prime Minister's post is a constitutional post. You consider Pakistan's prime minister as PM, but India's Prime Minister is not PM for you. This is an insult to the Indian constitution," PM Modi told WION Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary. × The jibe comes days after Mamata Banerjee said in an election rally that she refused a meeting with Narendra Modi over Cyclone Fani as she does not consider him the country's prime minister. "I do not consider him the country's prime minister, hence, I did not sit for the meeting. I do not want to be seen with him on the same platform. I will speak to the next prime minister. We can take care of the cyclone damage by ourselves. We do not need the Centre's help ahead of polls," she said in Jhargram on Monday. At an election rally in West Bengal's Bankura, PM Modi said, "One can easily gauge the level of her anxiety hearing the language she has been using. Now she talks of stones and slaps for me... I am used to abusive language and have inculcated a power to digest all the slangs present in dictionaries around the world. But Didi is now in a frenzied condition. She is even insulting the Constitution of the country." Modi also accused Banerjee of destroying West Bengal for "the sake of her addiction of power in the state". "Now, she is further bent on destroying the state out of fear of losing her power. She is not bothered about 'Ma Maati Maanush' but her own benefits, the seat of power and also her relatives, nephew and extortionists," he said. The Prime Minister also reiterated his earlier accusation that the Trinamool Congress chief neither received nor returned his calls to assess the losses inflicted by Cyclone Fani last week. The rivalry between BJP and TMC has been the talking point in West Bengal politics with the workers of both party's clashing on several occasions. During his campaign, Modi alleged that the TMC government "made efforts to stop his rally, but failed".

Insult to India's Constitution: PM Modi on Mamata Banerjee's 'do not consider him PM' remark

Responding to the strong words used by West Bengal chief minister earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday hit out at Mamata Banerjee saying that he is not worried about her anger as the "love of 130 crore people is with him."

PM Modi also said that the kind of language she is using, it can be understood that she is "worried".

PM Modi made the statement while he was addressing a rally in Bankura district in West Bengal.

He further attacked Banerjee saying that she is not ready to accept Modi as country's PM, but "ready to acknowledge the PM of Pakistan".

"Didi (Mamata Banerjee) is disrespecting constitution of India. She is saying that she is not ready to accept the country's prime minister but she feels pride in accepting Pakistan's PM."

PM Modi also said that , "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/pm-modi-could-not-talk-to-mamata-over-cyclone-as-his-calls-were-not-returned-official-216063">when cyclone came in West Bengal</a>, I called 'didi' again and again, but because of her ego, she didn't think it was appropriate to talk to PM," adding, "central government wanted to talk with the officers here and help the state, but 'didi' refused to even hold that meeting".

"In her thirst for power, Mamata Didi first destroyed West Bengal, now she is more determined to destroy the state in fear of losing power," PM Modi said.

With election campaign in its last leg, PM Modi was addressing the rally at poll-bound Bankura district of West Bengal, after which he will go to Purulia district to hold another rally. He&nbsp;will also hold&nbsp;public meetings at Azamgarh, Jaunpur and Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh. All these cities are going to polls on May 12.

West Bengal has a total of 42 Lok Sabha seats of which polling for 17 seats is yet to be held in the sixth and seventh phases of the Lok Sabha election on May 12 and 19.

The counting will take place on May 23.

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&nbsp;

Responding to the strong words used by West Bengal chief minister earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday hit out at Mamata Banerjee saying that he is not worried about her anger as the "love of 130 crore people is with him.

Responding to the strong words used by West Bengal chief minister earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday hit out at Mamata Banerjee saying that he is not worried about her anger as the "love of 130 crore people is with him." PM Modi also said that the kind of language she is using, it can be understood that she is "worried". PM Modi made the statement while he was addressing a rally in Bankura district in West Bengal. He further attacked Banerjee saying that she is not ready to accept Modi as country's PM, but "ready to acknowledge the PM of Pakistan". "Didi (Mamata Banerjee) is disrespecting constitution of India. She is saying that she is not ready to accept the country's prime minister but she feels pride in accepting Pakistan's PM." PM Modi also said that , "when cyclone came in West Bengal, I called 'didi' again and again, but because of her ego, she didn't think it was appropriate to talk to PM," adding, "central government wanted to talk with the officers here and help the state, but 'didi' refused to even hold that meeting". "In her thirst for power, Mamata Didi first destroyed West Bengal, now she is more determined to destroy the state in fear of losing power," PM Modi said. With election campaign in its last leg, PM Modi was addressing the rally at poll-bound Bankura district of West Bengal, after which he will go to Purulia district to hold another rally. He will also hold public meetings at Azamgarh, Jaunpur and Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh. All these cities are going to polls on May 12. West Bengal has a total of 42 Lok Sabha seats of which polling for 17 seats is yet to be held in the sixth and seventh phases of the Lok Sabha election on May 12 and 19. The counting will take place on May 23. ×

By not accepting country's PM, Mamata Banerjee disrespecting constitution of India: Modi in West Bengal rally

Two days after Mamata Banerjee said she wanted to give him a "tight slap of democracy", Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his response while campaigning in Bengal.

IEW: BJP's mega push in West Bengal

Insult to India Constitution: PM Modi on Mamata Banerjee's 'do not consider him PM' remark

Watch 'India Election Watch.' This is the show that brings you the latest on world's biggest electoral exercise, Verified updates & Unbiased analysis.

India Election Watch; 09th May, 2019

Under the leadership Of Mamata Banerjee India will change, said Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu at a campaign rally in Kharagpur on Thursday.&nbsp;

Mamata campaigned in Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh in support of the TDP chief in the run-up to the polls in the state and Naidu is now returning the favour and is campaigning in West Bengal as the election reaches its final stage with two phases of polling remaining.&nbsp;

At a TMC rally in Kharagpur Naidu stated: "Under the leadership of Bengal tiger Mamata Banerjee India will change and urged the people to vote for TMC so that a large representation goes from the state to Parliament."

Naidu is on a two-day visit to West Bengal and is campaigning in south Indians dominated areas.

Today after the campaign, Naidu and Mamata had a meeting where post-poll strategies were discussed at large.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Under the leadership Of Mamata Banerjee India will change, said Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu at a campaign rally in Kharagpur on Thursday. Mamata campaigned in Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh in support of the TDP chief in the run-up to the polls in the state and Naidu is now returning the favour and is campaigning in West Bengal as the election reaches its final stage with two phases of polling remaining.

Under the leadership Of Mamata Banerjee India will change, said Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu at a campaign rally in Kharagpur on Thursday. Mamata campaigned in Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh in support of the TDP chief in the run-up to the polls in the state and Naidu is now returning the favour and is campaigning in West Bengal as the election reaches its final stage with two phases of polling remaining. At a TMC rally in Kharagpur Naidu stated: "Under the leadership of Bengal tiger Mamata Banerjee India will change and urged the people to vote for TMC so that a large representation goes from the state to Parliament." Naidu is on a two-day visit to West Bengal and is campaigning in south Indians dominated areas. Today after the campaign, Naidu and Mamata had a meeting where post-poll strategies were discussed at large.

Under the leadership of Mamata India will change, says Chandrababu Naidu 

BJP is aiming to make a mark in West Bengal. PM Modi to address 6 rallies in West Bengal. Watch this video to know more.

India Election Watch: BJP bets big on West Bengal

Watch 'India Election Watch.' This is the show that brings you the latest on world's biggest electoral exercise, Verified updates & Unbiased analysis. The entire election day wrapped in 30 minutes with the very special panel of guests.

India Election Watch; 07th May, 2019

Politics over Cyclone Fani is getting intensifies day by day. Mamata Banerjee refused to meet PM Modi. PM Modi calls her arrogant.

India Election Watch: Politics over Cyclone Fani, Mamata refuses to meet PM

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The state government of West Bengal has refused to hold a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/pm-modi-reviews-situation-in-cyclone-hit-odisha-lauds-state-government-says-another-rs-1000-crore-to-be-released-216313">review meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi over Cyclone Fani</a>.

Prime Minister Modi, who flew down to Bhubaneswar on Monday to visit the areas hit by Fani and take stock of the situation, wanted to do the same for West Bengal.

The Centre had written to the Mamata Banerjee-led administration about a review meeting of the prime minister with the state government officials today.

However, the West Bengal government replied that since the government officials are busy with election duty, hence the review meeting should not be held.

"For the purpose of supervision of elections arrangement, the Chief Secretary, West Bengal and State Home Secretary will have to be stationed in the headquarters from morning till the end of elections on 06.05.2019. Hence it will not be possible for Chief Secretary, West Bengal, Home Secretary and other senior officers of the Government of West Bengal to be away from headquarters on 06.05.2019," the letter to the Union Home Ministry from the West Bengal's Department of Disaster Management and Civil Defence stated.

In Odisha, Prime Minister Modi was received by Governor Ganeshi Lal and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik at the airport in the morning.

The Centre had earlier released Rs 1,000 crore to Odisha and other states, including West Bengal, to deal with the devastation caused by Cyclone Fani.

The prime minister wanted to take stock of the situation in West Bengal as well, but the state government declined.

"It is, therefore, proposed in view of the date coinciding with elections the meeting may be deferred," the letter from the West Bengal government added.

Government sources on Sunday revealed that the PMO had made attempts to connect Prime Minister Narendra Modi to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee twice over telephone post the Cyclone Fani but failed.

Reacting to reports in a section of media that TMC has expressed its displeasure over PM Modi speaking only to West Bengal Governor Keshari Nath Tripathi to inquire about the situation in the aftermath of the cyclone, the sources in the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said that the claim is incorrect.

According to TMC, the Prime Minister had talked to Governor Tripathi and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik but "did not call up" Banerjee.

The PMO sources said that two attempts were made by the PM's staff to connect the Prime Minister to Banerjee over the telephone.

"The claim made by TMC is incorrect. Two attempts were made on Saturday morning from the Prime Minister's staff to connect the Prime Minister to the West Bengal Chief Minister on phone," the sources had told ANI.

They said that on both occasions, PMO staff was told by Banerjee's office that the Chief Minister was on tour and the calls would be returned once she was back.

Cyclone Fani on Friday lashed Odisha and parts of West Bengal, triggering heavy rainfall accompanied by wind touching the speed of 200 kmph, and left three persons dead besides over 160 injured, a trail of destruction that included damaged houses, uprooted trees and electricity poles.

The state government of West Bengal has refused to hold a review meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi over Cyclone Fani. Prime Minister Modi, who flew down to Bhubaneswar on Monday to visit the areas hit by Fani and take stock of the situation, wanted to do the same for West Bengal.

The state government of West Bengal has refused to hold a review meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi over Cyclone Fani. Prime Minister Modi, who flew down to Bhubaneswar on Monday to visit the areas hit by Fani and take stock of the situation, wanted to do the same for West Bengal. The Centre had written to the Mamata Banerjee-led administration about a review meeting of the prime minister with the state government officials today. However, the West Bengal government replied that since the government officials are busy with election duty, hence the review meeting should not be held. "For the purpose of supervision of elections arrangement, the Chief Secretary, West Bengal and State Home Secretary will have to be stationed in the headquarters from morning till the end of elections on 06.05.2019. Hence it will not be possible for Chief Secretary, West Bengal, Home Secretary and other senior officers of the Government of West Bengal to be away from headquarters on 06.05.2019," the letter to the Union Home Ministry from the West Bengal's Department of Disaster Management and Civil Defence stated. In Odisha, Prime Minister Modi was received by Governor Ganeshi Lal and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik at the airport in the morning. The Centre had earlier released Rs 1,000 crore to Odisha and other states, including West Bengal, to deal with the devastation caused by Cyclone Fani. The prime minister wanted to take stock of the situation in West Bengal as well, but the state government declined. "It is, therefore, proposed in view of the date coinciding with elections the meeting may be deferred," the letter from the West Bengal government added. Government sources on Sunday revealed that the PMO had made attempts to connect Prime Minister Narendra Modi to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee twice over telephone post the Cyclone Fani but failed. Reacting to reports in a section of media that TMC has expressed its displeasure over PM Modi speaking only to West Bengal Governor Keshari Nath Tripathi to inquire about the situation in the aftermath of the cyclone, the sources in the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said that the claim is incorrect. According to TMC, the Prime Minister had talked to Governor Tripathi and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik but "did not call up" Banerjee. The PMO sources said that two attempts were made by the PM's staff to connect the Prime Minister to Banerjee over the telephone. "The claim made by TMC is incorrect. Two attempts were made on Saturday morning from the Prime Minister's staff to connect the Prime Minister to the West Bengal Chief Minister on phone," the sources had told ANI. They said that on both occasions, PMO staff was told by Banerjee's office that the Chief Minister was on tour and the calls would be returned once she was back. Cyclone Fani on Friday lashed Odisha and parts of West Bengal, triggering heavy rainfall accompanied by wind touching the speed of 200 kmph, and left three persons dead besides over 160 injured, a trail of destruction that included damaged houses, uprooted trees and electricity poles.

West Bengal refuses to hold review meeting for 'Fani' with PM Modi

India Election Watch; 06th May, 2019

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday slammed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for not taking his phone calls.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister accused Trinamool Congress chief of playing politics over cyclone Fani.&nbsp;

"I tried getting in touch with Didi but her arrogance is such that she refused to talk to me, I tried again but she did not get in touch," PM Modi said during a rally in West Bengal.

"Didi is so frustrated these days that she doesn't even want to talk or hear about God. The situation is such that Didi is arresting and jailing those who are chanting 'Jai Sri Ram'," said the PM while addressing a rally in Tamluk, West Bengal.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
PM Modi in Tamluk,West Bengal: Speedbreaker didi has tried to play politics even on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cycloneFani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cycloneFani</a>. I tried to get in touch with Mamata didi but her arrogance is such that she refused to talk to me, I tried again but she did not get in touch <a href="https://t.co/g0FudSKqIo">pic.twitter.com/g0FudSKqIo</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1125302184327778304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier in the day, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/pm-modi-reviews-situation-in-cyclone-hit-odisha-lauds-state-government-says-another-rs-1000-crore-to-be-released-216313">PM Modi conducted an aerial survey of cyclone-ravaged areas in Odisha</a> and took part in a review meeting with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and other officials.&nbsp;

Later in the day, it was reported that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-refuses-to-hold-review-meeting-for-fani-with-pm-modi-216323">the Banerjee administration refused a review meeting with PM Modi over cyclone Fani</a> citing officials' unavailability due to ongoing elections.&nbsp;

On Sunday, reports surfaced that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/pm-modi-could-not-talk-to-mamata-over-cyclone-as-his-calls-were-not-returned-official-216063">prime minister's calls went unanswered by Banerjee</a>.&nbsp;

"Two attempts were made by the prime minister's staff to connect Modi with Banerjee over the phone. On both the occasions they were told that the call would be returned. On one occasion they were told that the CM is on tour," an official said on Sunday.

Trinamool Congress had hit out at PM Modi for not talking to Banerjee about the ground situation in the state in wake of the cyclone.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday slammed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for not taking his phone calls. The Prime Minister accused Trinamool Congress chief of playing politics over cyclone Fani.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday slammed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for not taking his phone calls. The Prime Minister accused Trinamool Congress chief of playing politics over cyclone Fani. "I tried getting in touch with Didi but her arrogance is such that she refused to talk to me, I tried again but she did not get in touch," PM Modi said during a rally in West Bengal. "Didi is so frustrated these days that she doesn't even want to talk or hear about God. The situation is such that Didi is arresting and jailing those who are chanting 'Jai Sri Ram'," said the PM while addressing a rally in Tamluk, West Bengal. PM Modi in Tamluk,West Bengal: Speedbreaker didi has tried to play politics even on #cycloneFani. I tried to get in touch with Mamata didi but her arrogance is such that she refused to talk to me, I tried again but she did not get in touch pic.twitter.com/g0FudSKqIo — ANI (@ANI) May 6, 2019 × Earlier in the day, PM Modi conducted an aerial survey of cyclone-ravaged areas in Odisha and took part in a review meeting with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and other officials. Later in the day, it was reported that the Banerjee administration refused a review meeting with PM Modi over cyclone Fani citing officials' unavailability due to ongoing elections. On Sunday, reports surfaced that the prime minister's calls went unanswered by Banerjee. "Two attempts were made by the prime minister's staff to connect Modi with Banerjee over the phone. On both the occasions they were told that the call would be returned. On one occasion they were told that the CM is on tour," an official said on Sunday. Trinamool Congress had hit out at PM Modi for not talking to Banerjee about the ground situation in the state in wake of the cyclone.

Didi is playing politics over cyclone Fani, she refuses to take my calls: PM Modi in West Bengal 

The West Bengal government has refused to hold a review meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to assess the damage caused by Cyclone Fani, according to government sources.

Politics over PM's cyclone review meet

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