The Supreme Court Tuesday refused to consider BSP supremo Mayawati's plea challenging the EC's 48-hr campaign ban on her and expressed satisfaction over the poll body's action against leaders making hate speeches.&nbsp;

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi asked Mayawati's counsel to file a separate appeal against the poll panel's order.

Taking note of the EC action, the court said<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/election-commission-has-finally-woken-up-to-its-power-supreme-court-on-campaign-ban-on-politicians-210816"> it seems the poll body has "woken up"</a> and barred various politicians from poll campaigning for varying hours.

The bench also comprising Justice Sanjiv Khanna made it clear that no further order was required for now.

The Election Commission on Monday imposed a nationwide campaign ban on Adityanath for 72 hours and on Union Minister Maneka Gandhi and Mayawati for 48 hours from Tuesday for their "provocative" communal remarks, which it said had the "propensity to polarise the elections".

A 72-hour campaign ban has also been imposed on Samajwadi Party's Azam Khan for his alleged "khaki underwear" jibe against actor-politician Jaya Prada, who is his rival BJP candidate in Rampur Lok Sabha seat.&nbsp;

The bench was hearing a PIL filed by an NRI Yoga teacher based in Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), seeking a direction to the EC to take "strict action" against political parties if their spokespersons make remarks based on caste and religion in the media in the run-up to general elections.

The all-India ban on all four leaders -- two from the ruling BJP and two from opposition parties -- came into force from 6 am Tuesday.

While Adityanath, Mayawati and Gandhi were found guilty of violating the model code, the EC said Khan not only violated the poll code, he also disregarded its November 2013 directive asking politicians to desist from "deeds or actions construed as being repugnant to the honour and dignity of women".

For the first time a pan-India ban has been imposed on politicians, while any restriction on a chief minister and a union minister is unprecedented.

Mayawati alleged the order has been passed "under pressure" and it would be remembered as a "black day" in the EC's history. She has faced action for appealing to Muslims to not vote for the Congress to avoid their anti-BJP votes getting divided.&nbsp;

Her alliance partner and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav asked the EC whether it is capable to issue similar directives to the prime minister to stop him from asking for votes in name of the Army.

The EC order to bar Adityanath and Mayawati came soon after the Supreme Court asked the poll watchdog about the action it has initiated against them.

The apex court had on Monday expressed displeasure over the Election Commission not taking quick action against politicians for communal and hate speeches during the Lok Sabha campaigning and decided to examine the ambit of its power following submission that it was "toothless".

The bench had taken the cases of alleged communal speeches of Mayawati and Adityanath and asked the EC about the action taken so far against them while deciding to examine the statutory powers of the poll panel to deal with the violation of the model code of conduct (MCC).

The EC's counsel had said: "The power of the EC in this behalf is very limited. We can issue notice and seek reply but we cannot de-recognise a party or disqualify a candidate...We can only issue advisories and in case of a repeat offence, register a complaint."

Reacting sharply, the bench had said, "So you are basically saying you are toothless and powerless against hate speeches."

It had then said that besides sending a notice, an advisory and a criminal case can be filed only against such leader.&nbsp;

"It is stated by the counsel appearing for the EC that the power of the ECI for violation of the Model Code of Conduct by making hate speeches on grounds of religion, caste etc is circumscribed to issuing of notice and upon consideration of the reply to issue advisories.&nbsp;

"Only in case of repeated violation of the advisories, the EC has the power to file an FIR with the Police for initiation of criminal proceedings," the bench had noted in the order.

The apex court, on April 8, had issued a notice to the Centre and the poll panel on the PIL seeking direction to take "strict action" against political parties if their spokespersons make remarks based on castes and religions in the media in the run-up to general elections.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court Tuesday refused to consider BSP supremo Mayawati's plea challenging the EC's 48-hr campaign ban on her and expressed satisfaction over the poll body's action against leaders making hate speeches.

The Supreme Court Tuesday refused to consider BSP supremo Mayawati's plea challenging the EC's 48-hr campaign ban on her and expressed satisfaction over the poll body's action against leaders making hate speeches. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi asked Mayawati's counsel to file a separate appeal against the poll panel's order. Taking note of the EC action, the court said it seems the poll body has "woken up" and barred various politicians from poll campaigning for varying hours. The bench also comprising Justice Sanjiv Khanna made it clear that no further order was required for now. The Election Commission on Monday imposed a nationwide campaign ban on Adityanath for 72 hours and on Union Minister Maneka Gandhi and Mayawati for 48 hours from Tuesday for their "provocative" communal remarks, which it said had the "propensity to polarise the elections". A 72-hour campaign ban has also been imposed on Samajwadi Party's Azam Khan for his alleged "khaki underwear" jibe against actor-politician Jaya Prada, who is his rival BJP candidate in Rampur Lok Sabha seat. The bench was hearing a PIL filed by an NRI Yoga teacher based in Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), seeking a direction to the EC to take "strict action" against political parties if their spokespersons make remarks based on caste and religion in the media in the run-up to general elections. The all-India ban on all four leaders -- two from the ruling BJP and two from opposition parties -- came into force from 6 am Tuesday. While Adityanath, Mayawati and Gandhi were found guilty of violating the model code, the EC said Khan not only violated the poll code, he also disregarded its November 2013 directive asking politicians to desist from "deeds or actions construed as being repugnant to the honour and dignity of women". For the first time a pan-India ban has been imposed on politicians, while any restriction on a chief minister and a union minister is unprecedented. Mayawati alleged the order has been passed "under pressure" and it would be remembered as a "black day" in the EC's history. She has faced action for appealing to Muslims to not vote for the Congress to avoid their anti-BJP votes getting divided. Her alliance partner and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav asked the EC whether it is capable to issue similar directives to the prime minister to stop him from asking for votes in name of the Army. The EC order to bar Adityanath and Mayawati came soon after the Supreme Court asked the poll watchdog about the action it has initiated against them. The apex court had on Monday expressed displeasure over the Election Commission not taking quick action against politicians for communal and hate speeches during the Lok Sabha campaigning and decided to examine the ambit of its power following submission that it was "toothless". The bench had taken the cases of alleged communal speeches of Mayawati and Adityanath and asked the EC about the action taken so far against them while deciding to examine the statutory powers of the poll panel to deal with the violation of the model code of conduct (MCC). The EC's counsel had said: "The power of the EC in this behalf is very limited. We can issue notice and seek reply but we cannot de-recognise a party or disqualify a candidate...We can only issue advisories and in case of a repeat offence, register a complaint." Reacting sharply, the bench had said, "So you are basically saying you are toothless and powerless against hate speeches." It had then said that besides sending a notice, an advisory and a criminal case can be filed only against such leader. "It is stated by the counsel appearing for the EC that the power of the ECI for violation of the Model Code of Conduct by making hate speeches on grounds of religion, caste etc is circumscribed to issuing of notice and upon consideration of the reply to issue advisories. "Only in case of repeated violation of the advisories, the EC has the power to file an FIR with the Police for initiation of criminal proceedings," the bench had noted in the order. The apex court, on April 8, had issued a notice to the Centre and the poll panel on the PIL seeking direction to take "strict action" against political parties if their spokespersons make remarks based on castes and religions in the media in the run-up to general elections.

Supreme Court refuses to consider Mayawati's plea against Election Commission order

Watch this segment of India Election Watch for latest updates of India Election as on 15th April, 2019.

India Election Watch; 15th April 2019

The Election Commission of India on Monday banned Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/both-ali-and-bajrang-bali-ours-says-bsp-chief-mayawati-210164">Yogi Adityanath and BSP supremo Mayawati</a> from election campaigning for 72 and 48 hours respectively. As per reports, the ban will come into effect from Tuesday 6 am.&nbsp;

The leaders are facing the ban for violating the Model Code of Conduct by making objectionable statements in their speeches, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2ahnGm9Yyt8" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

The Election Commission on Monday "strongly condemned" Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and BSP supremo Mayawati for their communal remarks and barred them from campaigning for different periods.

The two have also been "censured".

The development comes after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-takes-note-of-alleged-hate-speeches-made-by-mayawati-adityanath-210525">Supreme Court, earlier in the day, took note of the alleged hate speeches</a> made by BSP supremo Mayawati and UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during poll campaign and sought to know from the Election Commission the action initiated against them so far.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi summoned a representative of the EC for Tuesday while agreeing to examine the poll panel's contention that it has the limited legal power to deal with hate speeches of politicians during electioneering, news agency PTI reported. &nbsp;

"The EC says they are toothless. They say that they first issue a notice, then advisory and then complain," the bench said, adding it would examine the aspect relating to poll panel's power to deal with hate speeches during the poll campaign.

"Tell us what actions you have taken against Mayawati and Yogi Adityanath," the bench asked and fixed the matter for tomorrow. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The bench was hearing a PIL filed by an NRI Yoga teacher based in Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), seeking a direction to the EC to take "strict action" against political parties if their spokespersons make remarks based on caste and religion in the media in the run-up to general elections.&nbsp;

Mayawati was issued the notice for her speech in Deoband appealing to Muslims to not vote for a particular party. The BSP chief had prima facie violated the model code of conduct, the poll panel found.&nbsp;

Adityanath was served the notice for his "Ali" and "Bajrang Bali" remarks while addressing a rally in Meerut.

He compared the Lok Sabha elections to a contest between 'Ali', a revered figure in Islam, and Bajrang Bali, the Hindu god Hanuman.

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Election Commission bans UP CM Yogi Adityanath and BSP chief Mayawati from election campaigning for 72 hours &amp; 48 hours respectively, starting from 6 am tomorrow, for violating Model Code of Conduct by making objectionable statements in their speeches. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/j1cYzMY8Mr">pic.twitter.com/j1cYzMY8Mr</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1117716836739682304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On Saturday, giving her own twist to Yogi Adityanath's recent comment, BSP chief Mayawati said her party wanted both Ali and Bajrang Bali - particularly Bajrang Bali as the deity is "linked with my own Dalit caste".

Addressing a rally in Badaun, Mayawati recalled Adityanath's comment on Tuesday in which he referred to her earlier appeal to Muslims to vote for the opposition alliance in Uttar Pradesh. The chief minister had said if Ali is with the BSP-SP-RLD alliance, then Bajrang Bali is with the BJP.

"In this connection, I want to tell him (Adityanath) that both Ali and Bajrang Bali are ours... So we want both Ali as well as Bajrang Bali," she said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Election Commission of India on Monday banned Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and BSP supremo Mayawati from election campaigning for 72 and 48 hours respectively.

The Election Commission of India on Monday banned Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and BSP supremo Mayawati from election campaigning for 72 and 48 hours respectively. As per reports, the ban will come into effect from Tuesday 6 am. The leaders are facing the ban for violating the Model Code of Conduct by making objectionable statements in their speeches, news agency ANI reported. The Election Commission on Monday "strongly condemned" Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and BSP supremo Mayawati for their communal remarks and barred them from campaigning for different periods. The two have also been "censured". The development comes after the Supreme Court, earlier in the day, took note of the alleged hate speeches made by BSP supremo Mayawati and UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during poll campaign and sought to know from the Election Commission the action initiated against them so far. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi summoned a representative of the EC for Tuesday while agreeing to examine the poll panel's contention that it has the limited legal power to deal with hate speeches of politicians during electioneering, news agency PTI reported. "The EC says they are toothless. They say that they first issue a notice, then advisory and then complain," the bench said, adding it would examine the aspect relating to poll panel's power to deal with hate speeches during the poll campaign. "Tell us what actions you have taken against Mayawati and Yogi Adityanath," the bench asked and fixed the matter for tomorrow. The bench was hearing a PIL filed by an NRI Yoga teacher based in Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), seeking a direction to the EC to take "strict action" against political parties if their spokespersons make remarks based on caste and religion in the media in the run-up to general elections. Mayawati was issued the notice for her speech in Deoband appealing to Muslims to not vote for a particular party. The BSP chief had prima facie violated the model code of conduct, the poll panel found. Adityanath was served the notice for his "Ali" and "Bajrang Bali" remarks while addressing a rally in Meerut. He compared the Lok Sabha elections to a contest between 'Ali', a revered figure in Islam, and Bajrang Bali, the Hindu god Hanuman. Election Commission bans UP CM Yogi Adityanath and BSP chief Mayawati from election campaigning for 72 hours & 48 hours respectively, starting from 6 am tomorrow, for violating Model Code of Conduct by making objectionable statements in their speeches. #LokSabhaElections2019 pic.twitter.com/j1cYzMY8Mr — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 15, 2019 × On Saturday, giving her own twist to Yogi Adityanath's recent comment, BSP chief Mayawati said her party wanted both Ali and Bajrang Bali - particularly Bajrang Bali as the deity is "linked with my own Dalit caste". Addressing a rally in Badaun, Mayawati recalled Adityanath's comment on Tuesday in which he referred to her earlier appeal to Muslims to vote for the opposition alliance in Uttar Pradesh. The chief minister had said if Ali is with the BSP-SP-RLD alliance, then Bajrang Bali is with the BJP. "In this connection, I want to tell him (Adityanath) that both Ali and Bajrang Bali are ours... So we want both Ali as well as Bajrang Bali," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Election Commission bars Yogi Adityanath from campaigning for 3 days, Mayawati for 2 days

The Election Commission today cracks the whip on leaders for making communal remarks for attracting voters. Mayawati and Yogi Adityanath can't campaign for some upcoming days. Watch video to know more.

Yogi Adityanath can't campaign for next 3 days, EC orders on leaders making communal remarks

The Supreme Court Monday took note of the alleged hate speeches made by BSP supremo Mayawati and UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during poll campaign and sought to know from the Election Commission the action initiated against them so far.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi summoned a representative of the EC for Tuesday while agreeing to examine the poll panel's contention that it has the limited legal power to deal with hate speeches of politicians during electioneering.&nbsp;

The bench referred to submissions of the EC that they can issue a notice, then advisory and finally lodge a complaint against an errant politician for violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by giving hate speeches based on caste and religion during the campaign.

"The EC says they are toothless. They say that they first issue a notice, then advisory and then complain," the bench said, adding it would examine the aspect relating to poll panel's power to deal with hate speeches during poll campaign.

During the hearing, the bench asked the counsel for EC as to what action they have taken against Mayawati and Yogi Adityanath for alleged hate speeches.

The counsel appearing for poll panel said that it has already issued notices against the two politicians.

"Tell us what actions you have taken against Mayawati and Yogi Adityanath," the bench asked and fixed the matter for tomorrow.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

The bench was hearing a PIL filed by an NRI Yoga teacher based in Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), seeking a direction to the EC to take "strict action" against political parties if their spokespersons make remarks based on caste and religion in the media in the run-up to general elections.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court Monday took note of the alleged hate speeches made by BSP supremo Mayawati and UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during poll campaign and sought to know from the Election Commission the action initiated against them so far.

The Supreme Court Monday took note of the alleged hate speeches made by BSP supremo Mayawati and UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during poll campaign and sought to know from the Election Commission the action initiated against them so far. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi summoned a representative of the EC for Tuesday while agreeing to examine the poll panel's contention that it has the limited legal power to deal with hate speeches of politicians during electioneering. The bench referred to submissions of the EC that they can issue a notice, then advisory and finally lodge a complaint against an errant politician for violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by giving hate speeches based on caste and religion during the campaign. "The EC says they are toothless. They say that they first issue a notice, then advisory and then complain," the bench said, adding it would examine the aspect relating to poll panel's power to deal with hate speeches during poll campaign. During the hearing, the bench asked the counsel for EC as to what action they have taken against Mayawati and Yogi Adityanath for alleged hate speeches. The counsel appearing for poll panel said that it has already issued notices against the two politicians. "Tell us what actions you have taken against Mayawati and Yogi Adityanath," the bench asked and fixed the matter for tomorrow. The bench was hearing a PIL filed by an NRI Yoga teacher based in Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), seeking a direction to the EC to take "strict action" against political parties if their spokespersons make remarks based on caste and religion in the media in the run-up to general elections.

Supreme Court takes note of alleged hate speeches made by Mayawati, Adityanath

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati on Sunday dismissed the claim made by BJP chief Amit Shah that her party remembered Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar only during elections.

In a tweet, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said, "The statement of BJP chief Amit Shah that the BSP remembers Babasaheb Ambedkar only during elections is untrue and mischievous."

Describing the BSP as a movement, Mayawati said taking inspiration from Ambedkar, her party was working for all sections of the society.

In another tweet, she said, "BJP leaders have now forgotten development, black money, corruption, poverty, unemployment and farmers. Now they have started raking up patriotism and national security...But after being unsuccessful in that, they are now threatening the voters like it was done by Maneka Gandhi, which is highly condemnable."

In a controversial remark, Union Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi recently told Muslims to vote for her as they would need her once the Lok Sabha polls were over. She is the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate from Sultanpur in Uttar Pradesh in the ongoing general election. 
&nbsp;

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati on Sunday dismissed the claim made by BJP chief Amit Shah that her party remembered Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar only during elections.

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati on Sunday dismissed the claim made by BJP chief Amit Shah that her party remembered Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar only during elections. In a tweet, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said, "The statement of BJP chief Amit Shah that the BSP remembers Babasaheb Ambedkar only during elections is untrue and mischievous." Describing the BSP as a movement, Mayawati said taking inspiration from Ambedkar, her party was working for all sections of the society. In another tweet, she said, "BJP leaders have now forgotten development, black money, corruption, poverty, unemployment and farmers. Now they have started raking up patriotism and national security...But after being unsuccessful in that, they are now threatening the voters like it was done by Maneka Gandhi, which is highly condemnable." In a controversial remark, Union Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi recently told Muslims to vote for her as they would need her once the Lok Sabha polls were over. She is the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate from Sultanpur in Uttar Pradesh in the ongoing general election.

Mayawati dismisses Shah's claim that BSP remembers Ambedkar only during polls

Taking a swipe at SP-BSP alliance, BJP leader Naresh Agarwal on Saturday said that Akhilesh Yadav will be seen running on the road after Mayawati will break alliance with the Samajwadi party the very next day results for Lok Sabha elections are declared.

"Counting will be held on May 23 and on May 24 Mayawati will say that she is breaking that alliance since Muslims and Aheer had deceived her and then Akhilesh will be seen running on roads," Agarwal said while campaigning for a BJP candidate in Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh.

"Like the last emperor of Mughal was Jafar Shah Rangeela, the last emperor of Yadav family is Akhilesh Yadav," he said.

SP has stitched an alliance with BSP and RLD in Uttar Pradesh. Out of 80 Lok Sabha seats in the state, SP will contest on 37 seats, BSP on 38 and RLD on 3 seats.

Agarwal criticised Akhilesh for not declaring him as SP`s candidate for Rajya Sabha in 2018.&nbsp;

"Why did they not give the ticket to me? Because he (Akhilesh) likes an actress. They had denied me a ticket at this age," he said.&nbsp;

Agarwal had joined the BJP last year after he was denied ticket of the Rajya Sabha and Akhilesh Yadav-led party had selected Jaya Bachchan as Rajya Sabha candidate.

The BJP leader further attacked the Mahagathbandhan saying that the coalition governments in the past had only lasted for six months.

"The government cannot run for five years under Mulayam, Mayawati, Mamata and Akhilesh. There were coalition governments before under Chandrashekhar ji, Charan Singh ji, VP Singh, Devegowda ji.&nbsp;

Their governments had lasted for only six months," Agarwal said."What you need a government of five years of just six months. This election is between nationalism and separatism," he added.

Taking a swipe at SP-BSP alliance, BJP leader Naresh Agarwal on Saturday said that Akhilesh Yadav will be seen running on the road after Mayawati will break alliance with the Samajwadi party the very next day results for Lok Sabha elections are declared.

Taking a swipe at SP-BSP alliance, BJP leader Naresh Agarwal on Saturday said that Akhilesh Yadav will be seen running on the road after Mayawati will break alliance with the Samajwadi party the very next day results for Lok Sabha elections are declared. "Counting will be held on May 23 and on May 24 Mayawati will say that she is breaking that alliance since Muslims and Aheer had deceived her and then Akhilesh will be seen running on roads," Agarwal said while campaigning for a BJP candidate in Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh. "Like the last emperor of Mughal was Jafar Shah Rangeela, the last emperor of Yadav family is Akhilesh Yadav," he said. SP has stitched an alliance with BSP and RLD in Uttar Pradesh. Out of 80 Lok Sabha seats in the state, SP will contest on 37 seats, BSP on 38 and RLD on 3 seats. Agarwal criticised Akhilesh for not declaring him as SP`s candidate for Rajya Sabha in 2018. "Why did they not give the ticket to me? Because he (Akhilesh) likes an actress. They had denied me a ticket at this age," he said. Agarwal had joined the BJP last year after he was denied ticket of the Rajya Sabha and Akhilesh Yadav-led party had selected Jaya Bachchan as Rajya Sabha candidate. The BJP leader further attacked the Mahagathbandhan saying that the coalition governments in the past had only lasted for six months. "The government cannot run for five years under Mulayam, Mayawati, Mamata and Akhilesh. There were coalition governments before under Chandrashekhar ji, Charan Singh ji, VP Singh, Devegowda ji. Their governments had lasted for only six months," Agarwal said."What you need a government of five years of just six months. This election is between nationalism and separatism," he added.

Mayawati will break alliance with Akhilesh after Lok Sabha poll results: Naresh Agarwal

BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday took a swipe at BSP supremo Mayawati, stating she remembers Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar only during elections.

"When it is time for elections, Behenji remembers Ambedkar ji. But when she comes to power, she forgets Ambedkar ji and builds her own statues," Shah said while addressing an election rally here.

"It is the BJP government that has built Ambedkar ji's memorial in five years. We have done a lot of works for Dalits in the last five years," added the BJP president.

Reiterating his party's tough stance on infiltrators, Shah said, "Infiltrators are dangerous for the security of our country. They are eating our country like termites. We will not tolerate this. We will ensure that every single infiltrator is thrown out from this country by our party."

Hitting out at Congress, BSP and SP, Shah claimed that these parties could not keep the country safe, and contended that only the BJP could keep the nation safe from its enemies.

Accusing the Congress of ignoring the welfare of poor people, Shah said that the leaders in the grand old party were only "interested" in indulging in corruption.

"In the last 55 years, Rahul Gandhi and his party did not care for the poor. They did not do anything. In the last two years, Uttar Pradesh under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has done a lot of works for the poor," he said.

Talking about the Congress'&nbsp;pledge to remove poverty from the country, he said, "Those who were giving slogans on 'Garibi Hatao'&nbsp;have been taught a lesson by Prime Minister Narendra Modi by ensuring employment to poor and downtrodden."

"The people of this country want to see Narendra Modi as the Prime Minister again. The entire country is chanting 'Modi, Modi.'&nbsp;The electorates have decided to elect Narendra Modi again," he said.

Earlier addressing an election rally in Badaun, Shah took a jibe at the grand alliance of SP-BSP in Uttar Pradesh, stating that "Mahagathbandhan has no policy and no face. Can they give a befitting reply to terrorism? I want to ask the alliance - Who is your face?"

Highlighting the works done by the BJP, Shah said, "The Narendra Modi government made 9,400 houses for the poor in Badaun, provided insurance to 75,000 people, and opened bank accounts for 80,000 people."

"Around 75, 000 farmers here enjoy the benefit of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. We also gave two lakh gas connections to women," he said.

Eight constituencies in Uttar Pradesh, where 80 Lok Sabha seats are at stake, went to polls during the first phase of polling April 11. In the second phase on April 18, eight seats will go to polls. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday took a swipe at BSP supremo Mayawati, stating she remembers Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar only during elections. "When it is time for elections, Behenji remembers Ambedkar ji.

BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday took a swipe at BSP supremo Mayawati, stating she remembers Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar only during elections. "When it is time for elections, Behenji remembers Ambedkar ji. But when she comes to power, she forgets Ambedkar ji and builds her own statues," Shah said while addressing an election rally here. "It is the BJP government that has built Ambedkar ji's memorial in five years. We have done a lot of works for Dalits in the last five years," added the BJP president. Reiterating his party's tough stance on infiltrators, Shah said, "Infiltrators are dangerous for the security of our country. They are eating our country like termites. We will not tolerate this. We will ensure that every single infiltrator is thrown out from this country by our party." Hitting out at Congress, BSP and SP, Shah claimed that these parties could not keep the country safe, and contended that only the BJP could keep the nation safe from its enemies. Accusing the Congress of ignoring the welfare of poor people, Shah said that the leaders in the grand old party were only "interested" in indulging in corruption. "In the last 55 years, Rahul Gandhi and his party did not care for the poor. They did not do anything. In the last two years, Uttar Pradesh under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has done a lot of works for the poor," he said. Talking about the Congress' pledge to remove poverty from the country, he said, "Those who were giving slogans on 'Garibi Hatao' have been taught a lesson by Prime Minister Narendra Modi by ensuring employment to poor and downtrodden." "The people of this country want to see Narendra Modi as the Prime Minister again. The entire country is chanting 'Modi, Modi.' The electorates have decided to elect Narendra Modi again," he said. Earlier addressing an election rally in Badaun, Shah took a jibe at the grand alliance of SP-BSP in Uttar Pradesh, stating that "Mahagathbandhan has no policy and no face. Can they give a befitting reply to terrorism? I want to ask the alliance - Who is your face?" Highlighting the works done by the BJP, Shah said, "The Narendra Modi government made 9,400 houses for the poor in Badaun, provided insurance to 75,000 people, and opened bank accounts for 80,000 people." "Around 75, 000 farmers here enjoy the benefit of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. We also gave two lakh gas connections to women," he said. Eight constituencies in Uttar Pradesh, where 80 Lok Sabha seats are at stake, went to polls during the first phase of polling April 11. In the second phase on April 18, eight seats will go to polls. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Mayawati remembers Dr Ambedkar only during polls: Amit Shah

Giving her own twist to a recent remark by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, BSP chief Mayawati Saturday said her party wanted both Ali and Bajrang Bali -- particularly Bajrang Bali as the deity is "linked with my own Dalit caste".

Addressing a rally in Badaun, Mayawati recalled Adityanath's comment on Tuesday in which he referred to her earlier appeal to Muslims to vote for the opposition alliance in Uttar Pradesh. The chief minister had said if Ali is with the BSP-SP-RLD alliance, then Bajrang Bali is with the BJP.

"In this connection, I want to tell him (Adityanath) that both Ali and Bajrang Bali are ours.... So we want both Ali as well as Bajrang Bali," she said.

Ali is a revered figure in Islam and Lord Hanuman is often called Bajrang Bali. Both Mayawati and Adityanath were served notices by the Election Commission over their remarks.

"We particularly want Bajrang Bali because he is linked to my own Dalit caste," Mayawati said. The BSP chief was apparently referring to Adityanath's comments last year when he had described Lord Hanuman as a forest dweller and a Dalit.

"I am very thankful to Yogi ji that he has given us an important information about our ancestors. So, it is a very happy moment to note that we have both Ali and Bajrang Bali, and their coming together will give us very good results in these elections," she said.

"In the Lok Sabha election in Uttar Pradesh, Yogi's party (BJP) will neither get the votes of Ali nor Bajrang Bali, who is associated with my caste," she said.

Mayawati was addressing a rally of the BSP-SP-RLD alliance in favour of Samajwadi Party nominee Dharmendra Yadav for the Badaun Lok Sabha seat, where SP chief Akhilesh Yadav was also present.

"In these elections, the NaMo NaMo people are going out of power and the Jai Bhim ones are coming, which is also the need of the country." NaMo is an acronym for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Jai Bhim is the slogan used by followers of Dalit icon B R Ambedkar.

The BSP president said Dalits have long left the Congress and also the BJP.

"After Independence, for a long time, both at the Centre and states, there had been Congress governments.... It was the wrong policies and working of the Congress that forced it out of power," Mayawati said.

Similarly, she said, in the ongoing election, the BJP will be thrown out of power because of its pro-RSS, "casteist, capitalist, communal and narrow mindset", besides alleged wrong policies and wrong-doings.

"In these elections, no amount of drama or 'jumlebaazi' (rhetoric) is going to help the BJP. Even the new drama of 'chowkidari' is not going to save them this time," Mayawati said.

The BSP leader also alleged that Modi had tried to mislead people by resorting to gimmicks even after the announcement of election dates.

Mayawati also alleged that even one-fourth of the "achchhe din" (goods days) that the BJP promised had not been fulfilled.&nbsp;

Giving her own twist to a recent remark by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, BSP chief Mayawati Saturday said her party wanted both Ali and Bajrang Bali -- particularly Bajrang Bali as the deity is "linked with my own Dalit caste".

Giving her own twist to a recent remark by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, BSP chief Mayawati Saturday said her party wanted both Ali and Bajrang Bali -- particularly Bajrang Bali as the deity is "linked with my own Dalit caste". Addressing a rally in Badaun, Mayawati recalled Adityanath's comment on Tuesday in which he referred to her earlier appeal to Muslims to vote for the opposition alliance in Uttar Pradesh. The chief minister had said if Ali is with the BSP-SP-RLD alliance, then Bajrang Bali is with the BJP. "In this connection, I want to tell him (Adityanath) that both Ali and Bajrang Bali are ours.... So we want both Ali as well as Bajrang Bali," she said. Ali is a revered figure in Islam and Lord Hanuman is often called Bajrang Bali. Both Mayawati and Adityanath were served notices by the Election Commission over their remarks. "We particularly want Bajrang Bali because he is linked to my own Dalit caste," Mayawati said. The BSP chief was apparently referring to Adityanath's comments last year when he had described Lord Hanuman as a forest dweller and a Dalit. "I am very thankful to Yogi ji that he has given us an important information about our ancestors. So, it is a very happy moment to note that we have both Ali and Bajrang Bali, and their coming together will give us very good results in these elections," she said. "In the Lok Sabha election in Uttar Pradesh, Yogi's party (BJP) will neither get the votes of Ali nor Bajrang Bali, who is associated with my caste," she said. Mayawati was addressing a rally of the BSP-SP-RLD alliance in favour of Samajwadi Party nominee Dharmendra Yadav for the Badaun Lok Sabha seat, where SP chief Akhilesh Yadav was also present. "In these elections, the NaMo NaMo people are going out of power and the Jai Bhim ones are coming, which is also the need of the country." NaMo is an acronym for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Jai Bhim is the slogan used by followers of Dalit icon B R Ambedkar. The BSP president said Dalits have long left the Congress and also the BJP. "After Independence, for a long time, both at the Centre and states, there had been Congress governments.... It was the wrong policies and working of the Congress that forced it out of power," Mayawati said. Similarly, she said, in the ongoing election, the BJP will be thrown out of power because of its pro-RSS, "casteist, capitalist, communal and narrow mindset", besides alleged wrong policies and wrong-doings. "In these elections, no amount of drama or 'jumlebaazi' (rhetoric) is going to help the BJP. Even the new drama of 'chowkidari' is not going to save them this time," Mayawati said. The BSP leader also alleged that Modi had tried to mislead people by resorting to gimmicks even after the announcement of election dates. Mayawati also alleged that even one-fourth of the "achchhe din" (goods days) that the BJP promised had not been fulfilled.

Both Ali and Bajrang Bali ours, says BSP chief Mayawati

Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday sent notices to Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati and UP CM Yogi Adityanath over their speeches delivered in Deoband in Saharanpur on April 7 and 9 respectively, which allegedly violated the Model Code of Conduct.

Both the leaders have been asked to submit their response within 24 hours.

The two leaders have been issued notice under Sub-Section (3) of Section 123 of the Representation of the People`s Act.

The commission in its notice to them also reminded that the Supreme Court through a judgement in 2017 had ordered that religion and caste cannot be used by anyone while making any statement during electioneering or otherwise.

"The EC is prima facie of the opinion that you have violated the aforesaid provisions of the MCC and also wilfully disobeyed the order of the Supreme Court by making impugned statements," the Commission said in the notice issued to both the leaders.

Mayawati while addressing a rally in Deoband on April 7 had said, "I want to say to the people of the Muslim community that you should not distribute your votes in the name of relations and friendship. If you want to defeat the BJP in UP, then you should not let your votes get divided. Instead, vote for the grand-alliance candidates in a consolidated manner. This is my request, especially to the people of the Muslim community."

Replying to Mayawati, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath while addressing a rally in Meerut said, "You would have heard Mayawati`s speech day before yesterday. She said that if she gets only Muslim votes, then grand-alliance doesn`t need the votes of others. I also want to tell you that if Congress, Samajwadi Party, BSP have faith in Ali, then we have faith in Bajrangbali."

"They have accepted that followers of Bajrangbali will never tolerate them. That is why by shouting `Ali-Ali` from stages, they want to spread a green virus to bite this country," the Chief Minister had added.&nbsp;

Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday sent notices to Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati and UP CM Yogi Adityanath over their speeches delivered in Deoband in Saharanpur on April 7 and 9 respectively, which allegedly violated the Model Code of Conduct.

Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday sent notices to Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati and UP CM Yogi Adityanath over their speeches delivered in Deoband in Saharanpur on April 7 and 9 respectively, which allegedly violated the Model Code of Conduct. Both the leaders have been asked to submit their response within 24 hours. The two leaders have been issued notice under Sub-Section (3) of Section 123 of the Representation of the People`s Act. The commission in its notice to them also reminded that the Supreme Court through a judgement in 2017 had ordered that religion and caste cannot be used by anyone while making any statement during electioneering or otherwise. "The EC is prima facie of the opinion that you have violated the aforesaid provisions of the MCC and also wilfully disobeyed the order of the Supreme Court by making impugned statements," the Commission said in the notice issued to both the leaders. Mayawati while addressing a rally in Deoband on April 7 had said, "I want to say to the people of the Muslim community that you should not distribute your votes in the name of relations and friendship. If you want to defeat the BJP in UP, then you should not let your votes get divided. Instead, vote for the grand-alliance candidates in a consolidated manner. This is my request, especially to the people of the Muslim community." Replying to Mayawati, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath while addressing a rally in Meerut said, "You would have heard Mayawati`s speech day before yesterday. She said that if she gets only Muslim votes, then grand-alliance doesn`t need the votes of others. I also want to tell you that if Congress, Samajwadi Party, BSP have faith in Ali, then we have faith in Bajrangbali." "They have accepted that followers of Bajrangbali will never tolerate them. That is why by shouting `Ali-Ali` from stages, they want to spread a green virus to bite this country," the Chief Minister had added.

EC sends notice to Yogi, Mayawati for 'violation' of Model Code of Conduct, seeks reply within 24 hours

In the run-up to Lok Sabha elections 2019, two women had a powerful influence on matters related to opposition's strategy to take on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP.

The key interlocutor of opposition - Mamata Banerjee is considered to be the prime reason behind Congress president Rahul Gandhi not being declared the prime ministerial candidate of the united opposition despite approvals from several leaders. The friction between Banerjee and Gandhi scion is quite evident, she recently called Rahul a 'kid' while responding to his attack on the Trinamool Congress (TMC).

Didi doesn't mince a word while attacking Prime Minister Narendra Modi as well. She is one of the most vocal members of the opposition who claims West Bengal will lead in throwing Narendra Modi government out and forming the new government at the Centre. She ran pillar and post to unite all like-minded parties against BJP.

Mayawati too has emerged as a strong Congress-opposer. When Congress approached SP and BSP for forging an alliance in Uttar Pradesh, unhappy with the seat-sharing ratio suggested by Congress, Mayawati outrightly rejected the offer.

There were still some chances of understanding between the SP-BSP-RJD alliance and the Congress when the latter said it was ready to leave &nbsp;7 Lok Sabha seats vacant for the alliance, however, this couldn't happen due to Mayawati's defiance.&nbsp;

In a joint rally on Sunday, Mayawati trained her guns towards Congress and said the party was dividing votes on the basis of caste and religion. &nbsp;She cautioned voters against any such attempt and asked them to give all their votes to the SP, BSP and RJD alliance.

Other opposition members are worried that this three-cornered contest will divide the votes in UP and help the BJP. UP is a politically crucial state which has the highest number of Lok Sabha seats in the country - 80. In such a scenario, Mayawati's decision to not tie-up with Congress could prove costly to the alliance.

Meanwhile, on the national front - setting aside three decades of rivalry - even Chandrababu Naidu dropped his 'non-Congress Third Front' plank and approached Congress president Rahul Gandhi. He stressed on the need for opposition unity to save the nation. DMK chief M K Stalin too endorsed Gandhi as the Prime Ministerial candidate of the 'Mahagathbandhan', but Didi remained&nbsp;adamant.

Going by her and ignoring Congress, which did exceptionally well in the recently-concluded Assembly elections under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi, isn't mature.&nbsp;

For 'Mahagathbandhan', leadership has become a divisive issue. The opposition parties need to reach a broader understanding and declare the grouping's PM face. Political analysts say that not having a credible face pitted against PM Narendra Modi would impact voters' decision during the polling. Electorates are curious and have the right to know who will lead the country if 'Mahagathbandhan' comes to&nbsp;power. &nbsp;

The resistance&nbsp;of Mamata and Mayawati is a big setback to the entire calculation for forming an anti-BJP coalition and the prospects of 'Mahagathbandhan' - both on state and national level.&nbsp;

Alliances need sacrifices, however, they have shown reluctance to have an understanding with Congress - the main opposition party. Mamata and Mayawati have no desire to become Gandhi’s minority partners. They want to be in the driver's seat themselves.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) &nbsp;

&nbsp;

In the run-up to Lok Sabha elections 2019, two women had a powerful influence on matters related to opposition's strategy to take on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP.

In the run-up to Lok Sabha elections 2019, two women had a powerful influence on matters related to opposition's strategy to take on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP. The key interlocutor of opposition - Mamata Banerjee is considered to be the prime reason behind Congress president Rahul Gandhi not being declared the prime ministerial candidate of the united opposition despite approvals from several leaders. The friction between Banerjee and Gandhi scion is quite evident, she recently called Rahul a 'kid' while responding to his attack on the Trinamool Congress (TMC). Didi doesn't mince a word while attacking Prime Minister Narendra Modi as well. She is one of the most vocal members of the opposition who claims West Bengal will lead in throwing Narendra Modi government out and forming the new government at the Centre. She ran pillar and post to unite all like-minded parties against BJP. Mayawati too has emerged as a strong Congress-opposer. When Congress approached SP and BSP for forging an alliance in Uttar Pradesh, unhappy with the seat-sharing ratio suggested by Congress, Mayawati outrightly rejected the offer. There were still some chances of understanding between the SP-BSP-RJD alliance and the Congress when the latter said it was ready to leave 7 Lok Sabha seats vacant for the alliance, however, this couldn't happen due to Mayawati's defiance. In a joint rally on Sunday, Mayawati trained her guns towards Congress and said the party was dividing votes on the basis of caste and religion. She cautioned voters against any such attempt and asked them to give all their votes to the SP, BSP and RJD alliance. Other opposition members are worried that this three-cornered contest will divide the votes in UP and help the BJP. UP is a politically crucial state which has the highest number of Lok Sabha seats in the country - 80. In such a scenario, Mayawati's decision to not tie-up with Congress could prove costly to the alliance. Meanwhile, on the national front - setting aside three decades of rivalry - even Chandrababu Naidu dropped his 'non-Congress Third Front' plank and approached Congress president Rahul Gandhi. He stressed on the need for opposition unity to save the nation. DMK chief M K Stalin too endorsed Gandhi as the Prime Ministerial candidate of the 'Mahagathbandhan', but Didi remained adamant. Going by her and ignoring Congress, which did exceptionally well in the recently-concluded Assembly elections under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi, isn't mature. For 'Mahagathbandhan', leadership has become a divisive issue. The opposition parties need to reach a broader understanding and declare the grouping's PM face. Political analysts say that not having a credible face pitted against PM Narendra Modi would impact voters' decision during the polling. Electorates are curious and have the right to know who will lead the country if 'Mahagathbandhan' comes to power. The resistance of Mamata and Mayawati is a big setback to the entire calculation for forming an anti-BJP coalition and the prospects of 'Mahagathbandhan' - both on state and national level. Alliances need sacrifices, however, they have shown reluctance to have an understanding with Congress - the main opposition party. Mamata and Mayawati have no desire to become Gandhi’s minority partners. They want to be in the driver's seat themselves. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Mamata Banerjee's dominance, Mayawati's reluctance is advantage BJP

BSP chief Mayawati will address rallies in Greater Noida & Meerut today

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati attacked the BJP and the Opposition Congress on Thursday, alleging that both the parties failed to address the problems of the weaker sections.

Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP's 'Main Bhi Chowkidar' campaign, she said the 'Chaiwallah' who enacted a "new drama" of 'Chowkidar' would undoubtedly be rejected by the people in the coming elections.

Addressing an election meeting in Tirupati on Thursday, Mayawati lashed out at the Congress, saying the party, which ruled the country for 70 years, had miserably failed to ensure social justice and empowerment of the weaker sections of the society.

As a result, its rule had been rejected in many states and at the Centre as well, she said.

The BSP chief, who spoke in Hindi, claimed that the BJP was also following in the Congress' footsteps by ignoring the welfare of the weaker sections.

She alleged that aggressive approaches of the BJP and the RSS have created more problems for the weaker sections and minorities in the country.

The BSP is contesting three Lok Sabha and 21 assembly seats in Andhra Pradesh as part of the electoral alliance with the Jana Sena led by Pawan Kalyan.

Kalyan, who was also present, said a special governing body headed by Andhra Pradesh chief minister would be constituted in the place of existing board of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) that governs the Venkateswara temple if his party was voted to power.

"There is a dire need to protect the safety, serenity and sanctity of the ancient hill shrine with a body to be headed by none other than the chief minister of the state itself," the actor-turned-politician said.

He hit out at the YSR Congress Party led by Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy and alleged that it was practising unruly politics.

Kalyan appealed to the people to vote for the nominees of the Jana Sena-BSP-left parties in the coming Lok Sabha and state assembly elections for better governance and to uplift the poor and downtrodden.

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati attacked the BJP and the Opposition Congress on Thursday, alleging that both the parties failed to address the problems of the weaker sections.

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati attacked the BJP and the Opposition Congress on Thursday, alleging that both the parties failed to address the problems of the weaker sections. Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP's 'Main Bhi Chowkidar' campaign, she said the 'Chaiwallah' who enacted a "new drama" of 'Chowkidar' would undoubtedly be rejected by the people in the coming elections. Addressing an election meeting in Tirupati on Thursday, Mayawati lashed out at the Congress, saying the party, which ruled the country for 70 years, had miserably failed to ensure social justice and empowerment of the weaker sections of the society. As a result, its rule had been rejected in many states and at the Centre as well, she said. The BSP chief, who spoke in Hindi, claimed that the BJP was also following in the Congress' footsteps by ignoring the welfare of the weaker sections. She alleged that aggressive approaches of the BJP and the RSS have created more problems for the weaker sections and minorities in the country. The BSP is contesting three Lok Sabha and 21 assembly seats in Andhra Pradesh as part of the electoral alliance with the Jana Sena led by Pawan Kalyan. Kalyan, who was also present, said a special governing body headed by Andhra Pradesh chief minister would be constituted in the place of existing board of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) that governs the Venkateswara temple if his party was voted to power. "There is a dire need to protect the safety, serenity and sanctity of the ancient hill shrine with a body to be headed by none other than the chief minister of the state itself," the actor-turned-politician said. He hit out at the YSR Congress Party led by Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy and alleged that it was practising unruly politics. Kalyan appealed to the people to vote for the nominees of the Jana Sena-BSP-left parties in the coming Lok Sabha and state assembly elections for better governance and to uplift the poor and downtrodden.

Mayawati slams Congress, BJP in Tirupati rally

Hinting at her prime ministerial ambition, BSP chief Mayawati said Wednesday she would use the experience she has gained as UP chief minister to give the "best government" at the Centre "if we get an opportunity".

She said she has been Uttar Pradesh chief minister four times.

"I have a lot of experience. I will use that experience at the Centre and work for people's welfare," the Bahujan Samaj Party supremo said at a press conference in Visakhapatnam.

"If we get an opportunity at the Centre, we will adopt the UP pattern and give the best government in all aspects. At all levels, a good government," she asserted.

Asked if she would like to become the prime minister, Mayawati, however, said things would be clear when results of the general election are declared on May 23.

The BSP is contesting Lok Sabha and state assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh in alliance with the Jana Sena, the CPI and the CPI(M).

As part of the alliance, the BSP is contesting three Lok Sabha seats out of the 25 in the state and 21 assembly seats of the total 175.

Flanked by Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan at the presser, Mayawati said people "want a change" at the national level.

"They want a party in power that takes care of their welfare. They want our country safe," she said.

She pointed out that her party had garnered the third-largest vote share in the 2014 election, after the BJP and the Congress.

Asked if there's a need for a "Third Front", the BSP chief replied it would become clear when the election results come out.

"In the 2014 election, BJP promised big things. But it did not fulfil the promises in five years," she said, adding that the ruling party has diverted people's attention from those promises to "other issues".

On the Congress, she said people rejected the party that has remained in power for the longest time "because it failed to honour its promises" and the BJP "took advantage of it".

"Last time the BJP promised Rs 15-20 lakh for each poor family. Now the Congress is talking on the same lines. It is promising Rs 72,000 per year.

"The Congress should remember, when Indira Gandhi was in power she had started the 20-point programme in the name of Garibi Hatao. Kya garibi hati (Was poverty eradicated)?" Mayawati asked.

She said the BSP always talked less and believed in delivering more.

If BSP gets an opportunity at the Centre, it will work for the poor and the unemployed, irrespective of their caste. "We will give top priority to them. And farmers have multiple problems and we will try to get rid of them," she said.

Her government, if elected, would not be biased towards any state.

"If Congress is in power at the Centre, it supports some states and does not support others. BJP has its own equations. It will not happen with us," she said.

Claiming that the BJP's situation was "very bad", particularly vis-a-vis the BSP-SP-RLD alliance in Uttar Pradesh, the BSP chief said the ruling party was "worried."

"Wherever we have alliance, BJP will suffer," she said.

Mayawati also promised to grant the special category status to Andhra Pradesh.

"AP people are angry that both BJP and Congress did not deliver SCS. If we get a chance at the Centre, we will give SCS," she said.

The BSP chief hoped that the JSP-BSP-CPI(M)-CPI alliance would for the government in Andhra Pradesh and Pawan Kalyan would become the CM.

"People don't want to fall in the trap of regional parties of either Jagan Mohan Reddy (YSR Congress) or Chandrababu Naidu (Telugu Desam Party). They want a new leadership, young blood who could lead the state well... They should give a chance to Pawan Kalyan..."

Hinting at her prime ministerial ambition, BSP chief Mayawati said Wednesday she would use the experience she has gained as UP chief minister to give the "best government" at the Centre "if we get an opportunity".

Hinting at her prime ministerial ambition, BSP chief Mayawati said Wednesday she would use the experience she has gained as UP chief minister to give the "best government" at the Centre "if we get an opportunity". She said she has been Uttar Pradesh chief minister four times. "I have a lot of experience. I will use that experience at the Centre and work for people's welfare," the Bahujan Samaj Party supremo said at a press conference in Visakhapatnam. "If we get an opportunity at the Centre, we will adopt the UP pattern and give the best government in all aspects. At all levels, a good government," she asserted. Asked if she would like to become the prime minister, Mayawati, however, said things would be clear when results of the general election are declared on May 23. The BSP is contesting Lok Sabha and state assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh in alliance with the Jana Sena, the CPI and the CPI(M). As part of the alliance, the BSP is contesting three Lok Sabha seats out of the 25 in the state and 21 assembly seats of the total 175. Flanked by Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan at the presser, Mayawati said people "want a change" at the national level. "They want a party in power that takes care of their welfare. They want our country safe," she said. She pointed out that her party had garnered the third-largest vote share in the 2014 election, after the BJP and the Congress. Asked if there's a need for a "Third Front", the BSP chief replied it would become clear when the election results come out. "In the 2014 election, BJP promised big things. But it did not fulfil the promises in five years," she said, adding that the ruling party has diverted people's attention from those promises to "other issues". On the Congress, she said people rejected the party that has remained in power for the longest time "because it failed to honour its promises" and the BJP "took advantage of it". "Last time the BJP promised Rs 15-20 lakh for each poor family. Now the Congress is talking on the same lines. It is promising Rs 72,000 per year. "The Congress should remember, when Indira Gandhi was in power she had started the 20-point programme in the name of Garibi Hatao. Kya garibi hati (Was poverty eradicated)?" Mayawati asked. She said the BSP always talked less and believed in delivering more. If BSP gets an opportunity at the Centre, it will work for the poor and the unemployed, irrespective of their caste. "We will give top priority to them. And farmers have multiple problems and we will try to get rid of them," she said. Her government, if elected, would not be biased towards any state. "If Congress is in power at the Centre, it supports some states and does not support others. BJP has its own equations. It will not happen with us," she said. Claiming that the BJP's situation was "very bad", particularly vis-a-vis the BSP-SP-RLD alliance in Uttar Pradesh, the BSP chief said the ruling party was "worried." "Wherever we have alliance, BJP will suffer," she said. Mayawati also promised to grant the special category status to Andhra Pradesh. "AP people are angry that both BJP and Congress did not deliver SCS. If we get a chance at the Centre, we will give SCS," she said. The BSP chief hoped that the JSP-BSP-CPI(M)-CPI alliance would for the government in Andhra Pradesh and Pawan Kalyan would become the CM. "People don't want to fall in the trap of regional parties of either Jagan Mohan Reddy (YSR Congress) or Chandrababu Naidu (Telugu Desam Party). They want a new leadership, young blood who could lead the state well... They should give a chance to Pawan Kalyan..."

Mayawati hints at her prime ministerial ambition

India's general election: Mahayudh between Congress's old idea of India and Modi's 'Naya Bharat'

BSP supremo Mayawati Wednesday termed the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-exactly-does-the-congress-manifesto-promise-207487"> Congress manifesto</a> as a “showoff” and an “illusion” and said there was no credibility of the promises made by the party due to its past. Congress and BJP are no different when it comes to<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-scrapping-afspa-sedition-law-to-farmer-budget-key-takeaways-from-congress-manifesto-207507"> non-fulfilment of promises</a>, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said in a tweet.

“Congress election manifesto appears to be a showoff and illusion like its previous promises. Due to continuous working against its promises, there is no credibility left for Congress among the people. Congress and BJP are no different in non-fulfilling promises,” she said in the tweet.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi Tuesday released his party’s manifesto for Lok Sabha polls, making jobs creation, addressing farm distress, bringing a single moderate rate of GST and giving Rs 72,000 per annum to poor families as the key focus if the party comes to power.

Claiming the BJP was afraid of the SP-BSP-RLD alliance, Mayawati said, “They (BJP) are so afraid that instead of talking of issues, they indulge in unnecessary casteist statements on the top leader of (alliance). No one should be provoked by them (statements) and give them befitting reply by showing good results”.

BSP supremo Mayawati Wednesday termed the Congress manifesto as a “showoff” and an “illusion” and said there was no credibility of the promises made by the party due to its past.

BSP supremo Mayawati Wednesday termed the Congress manifesto as a “showoff” and an “illusion” and said there was no credibility of the promises made by the party due to its past. Congress and BJP are no different when it comes to non-fulfilment of promises, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said in a tweet. “Congress election manifesto appears to be a showoff and illusion like its previous promises. Due to continuous working against its promises, there is no credibility left for Congress among the people. Congress and BJP are no different in non-fulfilling promises,” she said in the tweet. Congress President Rahul Gandhi Tuesday released his party’s manifesto for Lok Sabha polls, making jobs creation, addressing farm distress, bringing a single moderate rate of GST and giving Rs 72,000 per annum to poor families as the key focus if the party comes to power. Claiming the BJP was afraid of the SP-BSP-RLD alliance, Mayawati said, “They (BJP) are so afraid that instead of talking of issues, they indulge in unnecessary casteist statements on the top leader of (alliance). No one should be provoked by them (statements) and give them befitting reply by showing good results”.

Congress manifesto for 2019 polls an illusion, says Mayawati, reminds party of past record

Bahujan Samaj Party supremo&nbsp;Mayawati on Tuesday justified installations of her&nbsp;statues&nbsp;in Uttar Pradesh at the expense of crores of rupees saying "It was the will of the people".

Mayawati in&nbsp;an affidavit filed before the apex court in compliance with the last order asking her to reimburse&nbsp;the money justified her action.&nbsp;

She had spent crores on the installation of&nbsp;statutes of herself and party symbol 'elephants' at public places.

A bench presided by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi in February had said, "Pay all the money from your (Mayawati) pocket. Madam Mayawati has to reimburse the public exchequer all the amount spent on statues. This is our tentative view."

A&nbsp;petition was filed in 2009 by advocate Ravi Kant in the matter who had sought the top court's direction to restrain Mayawati from installing her and party symbol statues in public places at the cost of the state exchequer. The petition also demanded a CBI probe into the issue.

The plea also alleged hundreds of crores of public money had been spent to "falsely glorify" Mayawati.

The activity was carried out as a state policy, which was arbitrary and violative of Article 14 of the Constitution, it said, adding that the statues&nbsp;were installed at a cost of Rs 52.20 crore at public places by utilising state funds.

It also sought that the state government should be directed to remove the statues.

(With inputs from agencies)

Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati on Tuesday justified installations of her statues in Uttar Pradesh at the expense of crores of rupees saying "It was the will of the people".

Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati on Tuesday justified installations of her statues in Uttar Pradesh at the expense of crores of rupees saying "It was the will of the people". Mayawati in an affidavit filed before the apex court in compliance with the last order asking her to reimburse the money justified her action. She had spent crores on the installation of statutes of herself and party symbol 'elephants' at public places. A bench presided by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi in February had said, "Pay all the money from your (Mayawati) pocket. Madam Mayawati has to reimburse the public exchequer all the amount spent on statues. This is our tentative view." A petition was filed in 2009 by advocate Ravi Kant in the matter who had sought the top court's direction to restrain Mayawati from installing her and party symbol statues in public places at the cost of the state exchequer. The petition also demanded a CBI probe into the issue. The plea also alleged hundreds of crores of public money had been spent to "falsely glorify" Mayawati. The activity was carried out as a state policy, which was arbitrary and violative of Article 14 of the Constitution, it said, adding that the statues were installed at a cost of Rs 52.20 crore at public places by utilising state funds. It also sought that the state government should be directed to remove the statues. (With inputs from agencies)

Mayawati justifies installation of her statues in UP, says 'it was people's will'

Accusing the BJP of indulging in “despicable politics”, Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati, Sunday alleged that the ruling party had conspired to field Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad from Varanasi Lok Sabha seat to divide the Dalit votes.

Azad had announced earlier this month that he will contest the general elections from Varanasi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s constituency.

“With the ill-intention of dividing Dalit votes &amp; taking advantage, the BJP has conspired to field Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar from Varanasi LS seat. This organisation was formed under BJP conspiracy &amp; with its anti-Dalit mindset, it is now indulging in despicable politics,” Mayawati said in a tweet.

“The BJP tried hard to help Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar join the BSP as its mole but failed in its conspiracy. It is very imperative in the national interest to dislodge autocratic, despotic anti-Dalit, OBC &amp; minorities BJP from power. Please ensure no vote goes waste. My Appeal,” she added.

Later, in a statement, the BSP chief said, “Each and every vote of the Dalits is important to remove the arrogant, autocratic, casteist and communal BJP from power. This should not be allowed to go waste so that one regret in future and life does not become hell.”

Azad launched his Lok Sabha campaign with a roadshow in Varanasi on Saturday. He accused Modi of only favouring the rich and “harassing” small borrowers and poor.

The Dalit leader declared at the roadshow that the countdown to Modi’s defeat had begun.

Accusing the BJP of indulging in “despicable politics”, Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati, Sunday alleged that the ruling party had conspired to field Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad from Varanasi Lok Sabha seat to divide the Dalit votes.

Accusing the BJP of indulging in “despicable politics”, Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati, Sunday alleged that the ruling party had conspired to field Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad from Varanasi Lok Sabha seat to divide the Dalit votes. Azad had announced earlier this month that he will contest the general elections from Varanasi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s constituency. “With the ill-intention of dividing Dalit votes & taking advantage, the BJP has conspired to field Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar from Varanasi LS seat. This organisation was formed under BJP conspiracy & with its anti-Dalit mindset, it is now indulging in despicable politics,” Mayawati said in a tweet. “The BJP tried hard to help Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar join the BSP as its mole but failed in its conspiracy. It is very imperative in the national interest to dislodge autocratic, despotic anti-Dalit, OBC & minorities BJP from power. Please ensure no vote goes waste. My Appeal,” she added. Later, in a statement, the BSP chief said, “Each and every vote of the Dalits is important to remove the arrogant, autocratic, casteist and communal BJP from power. This should not be allowed to go waste so that one regret in future and life does not become hell.” Azad launched his Lok Sabha campaign with a roadshow in Varanasi on Saturday. He accused Modi of only favouring the rich and “harassing” small borrowers and poor. The Dalit leader declared at the roadshow that the countdown to Modi’s defeat had begun.

BJP conspired to field Bhim Army’s Chandrashekhar from Varanasi to divide Dalit votes: Mayawati

BSP supremo Mayawati Wednesday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of playing politics over India's anti-satellite missile capability.

"Congratulations to Indian defence scientists for the successful experiment of shooting down a satellite in the space. But the prime minister playing politics under its garb for electoral gains is most condemnable," she said in her tweet in Hindi.

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भारतीय रक्षा वैज्ञानिकों द्वारा अंतरिक्ष में सैटेलाइट मार गिराये जाने का सफल परीक्षण करके देश का सर ऊंचा करने के लिए अनेकों बधाई। लेकिन इसकी आड़ में पीएम श्री मोदी द्वारा चुनावी लाभ के लिये राजनीति करना अति-निन्दनीय। मा. चुनाव आयोग को इसका सख्त संज्ञान अवश्य लेना चाहिए।
— Mayawati (@Mayawati) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mayawati/status/1110815742235017216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Her remarks came a few hours after Modi announced that India had demonstrated anti-satellite missile capability by shooting down a live satellite.

"The honourable election commission should definitely take cognizance of this," Mayawati said in her tweet.

BSP supremo Mayawati Wednesday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of playing politics over India's anti-satellite missile capability. "Congratulations to Indian defence scientists for the successful experiment of shooting down a satellite in the space.

BSP supremo Mayawati Wednesday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of playing politics over India's anti-satellite missile capability. "Congratulations to Indian defence scientists for the successful experiment of shooting down a satellite in the space. But the prime minister playing politics under its garb for electoral gains is most condemnable," she said in her tweet in Hindi. भारतीय रक्षा वैज्ञानिकों द्वारा अंतरिक्ष में सैटेलाइट मार गिराये जाने का सफल परीक्षण करके देश का सर ऊंचा करने के लिए अनेकों बधाई। लेकिन इसकी आड़ में पीएम श्री मोदी द्वारा चुनावी लाभ के लिये राजनीति करना अति-निन्दनीय। मा. चुनाव आयोग को इसका सख्त संज्ञान अवश्य लेना चाहिए। — Mayawati (@Mayawati) March 27, 2019 × Her remarks came a few hours after Modi announced that India had demonstrated anti-satellite missile capability by shooting down a live satellite. "The honourable election commission should definitely take cognizance of this," Mayawati said in her tweet.

PM Narendra Modi playing politics over anti-satellite missile capability: Mayawati

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) on Friday announced its candidates for 11 Lok Sabha constituencies in Uttar Pradesh.

The BSP, which is contesting the elections in alliance with the Samajwadi Party and the Rashtriya Lok Dal, has fielded Haji Fajalurahman from Saharanpur, Malook Nagar from Bijnor and Girish Chandra from Nagina (SC).

The party also named Kunwar Danish Ali as its candidate from Amroha, Haji Mohammad Yakub from Meerut, Satbir Nagar from Gautam Budha Nagar and Yogesh Verma from Bulandsahr (SC) seat.

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Bahujan Samaj Party release its list of 11 candidates for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/8KcyvCT8hn">pic.twitter.com/8KcyvCT8hn</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1109011854062309377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The BSP, which is contesting 38 seats, has named Ajit Baliyan from Aligarh, Manoj Kumar Soni from Agra (SC), Rajvir Singh from Fatehpur and Ruchi Veera from Aonla seat.

The BSP did not win a single Lok Sabha seat in 2014 election.&nbsp;

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) on Friday announced its candidates for 11 Lok Sabha constituencies in Uttar Pradesh. The BSP, which is contesting the elections in alliance with the Samajwadi Party and the Rashtriya Lok Dal, has fielded Haji Fajalurahman from Saharanpur, Malook Nagar from Bijnor and Girish Chandra from Nagina (SC).

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) on Friday announced its candidates for 11 Lok Sabha constituencies in Uttar Pradesh. The BSP, which is contesting the elections in alliance with the Samajwadi Party and the Rashtriya Lok Dal, has fielded Haji Fajalurahman from Saharanpur, Malook Nagar from Bijnor and Girish Chandra from Nagina (SC). The party also named Kunwar Danish Ali as its candidate from Amroha, Haji Mohammad Yakub from Meerut, Satbir Nagar from Gautam Budha Nagar and Yogesh Verma from Bulandsahr (SC) seat. Bahujan Samaj Party release its list of 11 candidates for the #LokSabhaElections2019 pic.twitter.com/8KcyvCT8hn — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 22, 2019 × The BSP, which is contesting 38 seats, has named Ajit Baliyan from Aligarh, Manoj Kumar Soni from Agra (SC), Rajvir Singh from Fatehpur and Ruchi Veera from Aonla seat. The BSP did not win a single Lok Sabha seat in 2014 election.

Lok Sabha polls: BSP declares first list of 11 candidates for Uttar Pradesh

BSP supremo <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-will-not-contest-mayawati-drops-out-of-2019-lok-sabha-polls-204488">Mayawati</a> said on Wednesday that she will not be contesting the Lok Sabha polls but later told her supporters not to be "disheartened".&nbsp;

For, she seemed to hint, she could still become prime minister.&nbsp;

"When I became UP CM first time in 1995 I was not member of either UP Assembly or Council. Similarly is provision at the Centre where a person have to be a LS/RS member within 6 months of holding office of minister/PM," Mayawati tweeted.&nbsp;

"Don't disheartened (sic) from my decision not to contest LS poll now," she added.&nbsp;

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is a good example of a prime minister who became a member of parliament after assuming the office of PM. Singh was elected to the Rajya Sabha from Assam.&nbsp;

Mayawati said Wednesday that she had resigned from the Rajya Sabha to devote herself to the party, and that she would like to do the same thing again.&nbsp;

WION's Political Editor Kartikeya Sharma quoted party insiders as saying Mayawati was opting out of the elections because she did not want to be tied down to one constituency but would instead like to concentrate on campaigning for the party. She is expected to campaign outside of her bastion of Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Sharma added that Mayawati also wanted to keep open the option of contesting the 2022 assembly elections.&nbsp;

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When I became UP CM first time in 1995 I was not member of either UP Assembly or Council. Similarly is provision at the Centre where a person have to be a LS/RS member within 6 months of holding office of minister/PM. Don't disheartened from my decision not to contest LS poll now
— Mayawati (@Mayawati) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mayawati/status/1108317295489748992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Chief Mayawati: I will not contest the Lok Sabha elections. <a href="https://t.co/88oGmtd6Ww">pic.twitter.com/88oGmtd6Ww</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1108262347817275392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Having said that, there is also the fact that Mayawati has ceded at least some space to new Dalit leaders like the Bhim Army's Chandrashekhar Azad and the Gujarat MLA Jignesh Mewani. And, said Sharma, should her victory margins now be less than impressive, that will further pull down her stature.&nbsp;

BSP supremo Mayawati said on Wednesday that she will not be contesting the Lok Sabha polls but later told her supporters not to be "disheartened". For, she seemed to hint, she could still become prime minister.

BSP supremo Mayawati said on Wednesday that she will not be contesting the Lok Sabha polls but later told her supporters not to be "disheartened". For, she seemed to hint, she could still become prime minister. "When I became UP CM first time in 1995 I was not member of either UP Assembly or Council. Similarly is provision at the Centre where a person have to be a LS/RS member within 6 months of holding office of minister/PM," Mayawati tweeted. "Don't disheartened (sic) from my decision not to contest LS poll now," she added. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is a good example of a prime minister who became a member of parliament after assuming the office of PM. Singh was elected to the Rajya Sabha from Assam. Mayawati said Wednesday that she had resigned from the Rajya Sabha to devote herself to the party, and that she would like to do the same thing again. WION's Political Editor Kartikeya Sharma quoted party insiders as saying Mayawati was opting out of the elections because she did not want to be tied down to one constituency but would instead like to concentrate on campaigning for the party. She is expected to campaign outside of her bastion of Uttar Pradesh. Sharma added that Mayawati also wanted to keep open the option of contesting the 2022 assembly elections. When I became UP CM first time in 1995 I was not member of either UP Assembly or Council. Similarly is provision at the Centre where a person have to be a LS/RS member within 6 months of holding office of minister/PM. Don't disheartened from my decision not to contest LS poll now — Mayawati (@Mayawati) March 20, 2019 × Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Chief Mayawati: I will not contest the Lok Sabha elections. pic.twitter.com/88oGmtd6Ww — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 20, 2019 × Having said that, there is also the fact that Mayawati has ceded at least some space to new Dalit leaders like the Bhim Army's Chandrashekhar Azad and the Gujarat MLA Jignesh Mewani. And, said Sharma, should her victory margins now be less than impressive, that will further pull down her stature.

After Mayawati says she will not contest Lok Sabha polls, she hints she could still become PM

Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati won't contest Lok Sabha elections 2019

Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati said Wednesday that she will not contest the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

Mayawati is the latest addition to a quickly growing list of party supremos and high-profile leaders who have opted out of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

The list includes India's Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj, who was the first to say she would not be contesting the polls.&nbsp;

NCP chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ncp-chief-sharad-pawar-says-he-will-not-contest-lok-sabha-polls-202608">Sharad Pawar followed her</a>, and now of course there's Mayawati.&nbsp;

The BSP supremo said Wednesday that she had resigned from the Rajya Sabha to devote herself to the party, and that she would like to do the same thing again.&nbsp;

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Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Chief Mayawati: I will not contest the Lok Sabha elections. <a href="https://t.co/88oGmtd6Ww">pic.twitter.com/88oGmtd6Ww</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1108262347817275392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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WION's Political Editor Kartikeya Sharma quoted party insiders as saying Mayawati was opting out of the elections because she did not want to be tied down to one constituency but would instead like to concentrate on campaigning for the party. She is expected to campaign outside of her bastion of Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Sharma added that Mayawati also wanted to keep open the option of contesting the 2022 assembly elections.&nbsp;

Having said that, there is also the fact that Mayawati has ceded at least some space to new Dalit leaders like the Bhim Army's Chandrashekhar Azad and Jignesh Mewani. And should her victory margins now be less than impressive, that will further bring down her stature.&nbsp;

Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati said Wednesday that she will not contest the Lok Sabha elections. Mayawati is the latest addition to a quickly growing list of party supremos and high-profile leaders who have opted out of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati said Wednesday that she will not contest the Lok Sabha elections. Mayawati is the latest addition to a quickly growing list of party supremos and high-profile leaders who have opted out of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The list includes India's Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj, who was the first to say she would not be contesting the polls. NCP chief Sharad Pawar followed her, and now of course there's Mayawati. The BSP supremo said Wednesday that she had resigned from the Rajya Sabha to devote herself to the party, and that she would like to do the same thing again. Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Chief Mayawati: I will not contest the Lok Sabha elections. pic.twitter.com/88oGmtd6Ww — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 20, 2019 × WION's Political Editor Kartikeya Sharma quoted party insiders as saying Mayawati was opting out of the elections because she did not want to be tied down to one constituency but would instead like to concentrate on campaigning for the party. She is expected to campaign outside of her bastion of Uttar Pradesh. Sharma added that Mayawati also wanted to keep open the option of contesting the 2022 assembly elections. Having said that, there is also the fact that Mayawati has ceded at least some space to new Dalit leaders like the Bhim Army's Chandrashekhar Azad and Jignesh Mewani. And should her victory margins now be less than impressive, that will further bring down her stature.

I will not contest: Mayawati drops out of 2019 Lok Sabha polls

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-review-petition-security-of-state-supersedes-everything-government-tells-supreme-court-203317">Rafale review petition: 'Security of state supersedes everything,' government tells Supreme Court</a>

Attorney General KK Venugopal told the Supreme Court Thursday that the "security of state supersedes everything". The court is hearing a review petition of its earlier judgement in the Rafale case which had said the deal did not need to be investigated for corruption.&nbsp;

The review petition has been filed by former union ministers Arun Shourie and Yashwant Sinha, and the lawyer Prashant Bhushan.&nbsp;

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-leader-donald-tusk-backs-long-delay-if-britain-rethinks-brexit-203291">EU's Donald Tusk backs 'long' delay if Britain 'rethinks' Brexit</a>

EU leader Donald Tusk said Thursday that European capitals could approve a long delay to Brexit, in a last-ditch push to persuade Prime Minister Theresa May to change her negotiating red lines. &nbsp;&nbsp;

During consultations ahead of next week's EU summit, Tusk said he "will appeal to the EU27 to be open to a long extension if the UK finds it necessary to rethink its Brexit strategy and build consensus around it."

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sp-bsp-will-have-joint-rallies-in-uttar-pradesh-says-akhilesh-203316">Lok Sabha polls: SP &amp; BSP will hold joint rallies in Uttar Pradesh, says Akhilesh</a>

In Uttar Pradesh, the SP and BSP will hold joint election rallies during the ensuing Lok Sabha polls, former chief minister Akhilesh Yadav said here on Thursday.&nbsp;

'We have planned joint rallies in Uttar Pradesh,' he told ANI in reply to a question about what transpired in his meeting with BSP president Mayawati on Wednesday.&nbsp;

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wing-commander-abhinandans-debiefing-complete-he-will-now-go-on-sick-leave-iaf-sources-203327">Wing Commander Abhinandan's debriefing complete, he will now go on sick leave: IAF sources</a>

Wing Commander Abhinandan Varathaman's debriefing is now complete, Indian Air Force sources said on Thursday.&nbsp;

The news agency ANI quoted the sources as saying Abhinandan will now go on sick leave for a few weeks on the advice of doctors at the army's Research and Referral Hospital in Delhi.&nbsp;

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-100-malaysian-schools-shut-after-toxic-waste-dump-203324">Over 100 Malaysian schools shut after </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-100-malaysian-schools-shut-after-toxic-waste-dump-203324">toxic</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-100-malaysian-schools-shut-after-toxic-waste-dump-203324"> waste dump</a>

Over 100 schools in Malaysia have been closed after the dumping of toxic waste into a river caused hundreds of people to fall ill, including many children, authorities said.

A lorry is believed to have dumped the waste in southern Johor state last week, sending hazardous fumes across a wide area and causing those affected to display symptoms of poisoning such as nausea and vomiting.

Rafale review petition: 'Security of state supersedes everything,' government tells Supreme Court Attorney General KK Venugopal told the Supreme Court Thursday that the "security of state supersedes everything".

Rafale review petition: 'Security of state supersedes everything,' government tells Supreme Court Attorney General KK Venugopal told the Supreme Court Thursday that the "security of state supersedes everything". The court is hearing a review petition of its earlier judgement in the Rafale case which had said the deal did not need to be investigated for corruption. The review petition has been filed by former union ministers Arun Shourie and Yashwant Sinha, and the lawyer Prashant Bhushan. EU's Donald Tusk backs 'long' delay if Britain 'rethinks' Brexit EU leader Donald Tusk said Thursday that European capitals could approve a long delay to Brexit, in a last-ditch push to persuade Prime Minister Theresa May to change her negotiating red lines. During consultations ahead of next week's EU summit, Tusk said he "will appeal to the EU27 to be open to a long extension if the UK finds it necessary to rethink its Brexit strategy and build consensus around it." Lok Sabha polls: SP & BSP will hold joint rallies in Uttar Pradesh, says Akhilesh In Uttar Pradesh, the SP and BSP will hold joint election rallies during the ensuing Lok Sabha polls, former chief minister Akhilesh Yadav said here on Thursday. 'We have planned joint rallies in Uttar Pradesh,' he told ANI in reply to a question about what transpired in his meeting with BSP president Mayawati on Wednesday. Wing Commander Abhinandan's debriefing complete, he will now go on sick leave: IAF sources Wing Commander Abhinandan Varathaman's debriefing is now complete, Indian Air Force sources said on Thursday. The news agency ANI quoted the sources as saying Abhinandan will now go on sick leave for a few weeks on the advice of doctors at the army's Research and Referral Hospital in Delhi. Over 100 Malaysian schools shut after toxic waste dump Over 100 schools in Malaysia have been closed after the dumping of toxic waste into a river caused hundreds of people to fall ill, including many children, authorities said. A lorry is believed to have dumped the waste in southern Johor state last week, sending hazardous fumes across a wide area and causing those affected to display symptoms of poisoning such as nausea and vomiting.

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