<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-stakes-claim-to-form-the-government-swearing-in-likely-on-may-30-221611">Prime Minister Narendra Modi </a>bowed and respectfully touched the Constitution of India with his forehead, as he walked towards the podium after being elected as the leader of the NDA and BJP parliamentary party on Saturday.

Wearing a white kurta and churidar with a brown checkered half-jacket, Prime Minister Modi humbly greeted the newly elected MPs with folded hands in the Central Hall of the Parliament before walking towards the Constitution, which was placed atop a risen platform with a white cloth.

The gesture reminisced of his action in 2014.&nbsp;

As he stepped into the Parliament for the first time after storming the BJP into power, PM Modi bent down with his forehead touching the stairs, to register his high respect for the "temple of democracy."

In the summer of 2014, soon after arriving for the BJP parliamentary party at the main gate of the Parliament building, Modi was greeted with bouquets by his party leaders, following which he touched the ground of the entrance with folded hands.

Prime Minister Modi, who steered the NDA coalition to a massive victory in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections, was on Saturday unanimously elected as the leader of the BJP parliamentary party and the NDA parliament party to head the government once again.

He was elected at a combined meeting of the newly elected MPs of BJP and the NDA coalition by 353 MPs, who raised their hands with slogans of Modi and `Bharat Mata Ki Jai` echoing in the Central Hall of Parliament. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi bowed and respectfully touched the Constitution of India with his forehead, as he walked towards the podium after being elected as the leader of the NDA and BJP parliamentary party on Saturday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi bowed and respectfully touched the Constitution of India with his forehead, as he walked towards the podium after being elected as the leader of the NDA and BJP parliamentary party on Saturday. Wearing a white kurta and churidar with a brown checkered half-jacket, Prime Minister Modi humbly greeted the newly elected MPs with folded hands in the Central Hall of the Parliament before walking towards the Constitution, which was placed atop a risen platform with a white cloth. The gesture reminisced of his action in 2014. As he stepped into the Parliament for the first time after storming the BJP into power, PM Modi bent down with his forehead touching the stairs, to register his high respect for the "temple of democracy." In the summer of 2014, soon after arriving for the BJP parliamentary party at the main gate of the Parliament building, Modi was greeted with bouquets by his party leaders, following which he touched the ground of the entrance with folded hands. Prime Minister Modi, who steered the NDA coalition to a massive victory in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections, was on Saturday unanimously elected as the leader of the BJP parliamentary party and the NDA parliament party to head the government once again. He was elected at a combined meeting of the newly elected MPs of BJP and the NDA coalition by 353 MPs, who raised their hands with slogans of Modi and `Bharat Mata Ki Jai` echoing in the Central Hall of Parliament.

PM Modi bows down, this time before Constitution

Prime Minister Modi on Saturday said the 2019 elections "united people" and gave a "positive mandate".

While speaking at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/nda-lawmakers-meet-in-delhi-to-formally-elect-narendra-modi-as-prime-minister-221557">parliamentary meeting</a>, PM Modi said, "Elections divide and create gulf but 2019 polls united people and society. There was a pro-incumbency wave in this election, its result was a positive mandate".

"These elections were pro-incumbency. This pro-incumbency wave is tied with the thread of trust...The trust was not only between people and govt but also among people themselves. This gave birth to that trust,"&nbsp;he said.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-stakes-claim-to-form-the-government-swearing-in-likely-on-may-30-221611">prime minister</a>&nbsp;was addressing the&nbsp;newly-elected members of Parliament belonging to BJP and other allies in the NDA in the Central Hall of Parliament.

Watch- PM Modi at Parliament: We will transform India together

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Stating that there was no better path than serving people while in power, PM Modi said his first government worked for the poor people who in 2019 re-elected his party.

He also reached out to minorities saying there will be no discrimination against anyone on the basis of caste, sect and religion and gave a new slogan of "trust towards all".

Modi said political parties in the past played deceit on minorities who were used for vote bank politics.

"They were kept in illusion, climate of fear and insecurity. They were misled by deceit. It would have been better if they were given education so that some good leaders emerged from the community, which could have become equal to other sections. But for the sake of vote bank politics, they were kept away from everything."

"Today I appeal to all that we have to break that deceit on minorities. We have to gain their trust. We have to move shoulder to shoulder without discriminating on the basis of caste, sect and religion. We are for 130 crore people. These should be our priorities and responsibility. 'Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas aur ab Sabka Vishwas (Everyone`s support, everyone`s development and now everyone`s trust). This is our mantra. I will leave no stone unturned and I will work for all citizens of India," he said.

Speaking to the NDA MPs, he said, "You all have elected me as the leader, I think of it as a part of the system, I'm one of you, equal to you"

"We are for those who trusted us and also for those whose trust we have to win over".

He further claimed that some statements made for publicity often trouble them and asked the NDA leaders to restrict themselves in speaking to media.

He also asked the leaders to shun VIP culture and asked them to &nbsp;stand in queues wherever required, like other citizens.&nbsp;

"Don't trust media reports on names being considered for ministerial berths, responsibilities will be given as per norms.

"Minorities made to live in fear by those who believed in vote-bank politics, we have to end this deception and take everyone along," Modi said.

The parliamentary board of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/focus-is-now-on-the-next-five-years-team-will-deliver-better-pm-modi-221500">BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA)</a>&nbsp;unanimously elected Prime Minister Narendra Modi as leader of NDA coalition&nbsp;at a meeting in Parliament's Central Hall in New Delhi&nbsp;on Saturday.

Amit shah proposed Narendra Modi's&nbsp;name as the leader of BJP Parliamentary Party while Rajnath singh and Nitin Gadkari seconded the proposal which was endorsed by all BJP MPs.&nbsp;

Top alliance leaders, including JD(U)'s Nitish Kumar, Shiv Sena's Uddhav Thackeray and Akali Dal's Parkash Singh Badal, extended their party's support after Modi was elected as the leader of the BJP parliamentary party at first.

Modi's election was a mere formality as the NDA had already declared him the alliance's prime ministerial candidate.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Modi on Saturday said the 2019 elections "united people" and gave a "positive mandate". While speaking at the parliamentary meeting, PM Modi said, "Elections divide and create gulf but 2019 polls united people and society.

Prime Minister Modi on Saturday said the 2019 elections "united people" and gave a "positive mandate". While speaking at the parliamentary meeting, PM Modi said, "Elections divide and create gulf but 2019 polls united people and society. There was a pro-incumbency wave in this election, its result was a positive mandate". "These elections were pro-incumbency. This pro-incumbency wave is tied with the thread of trust...The trust was not only between people and govt but also among people themselves. This gave birth to that trust," he said. The prime minister was addressing the newly-elected members of Parliament belonging to BJP and other allies in the NDA in the Central Hall of Parliament. Watch- PM Modi at Parliament: We will transform India together × Stating that there was no better path than serving people while in power, PM Modi said his first government worked for the poor people who in 2019 re-elected his party. He also reached out to minorities saying there will be no discrimination against anyone on the basis of caste, sect and religion and gave a new slogan of "trust towards all". Modi said political parties in the past played deceit on minorities who were used for vote bank politics. "They were kept in illusion, climate of fear and insecurity. They were misled by deceit. It would have been better if they were given education so that some good leaders emerged from the community, which could have become equal to other sections. But for the sake of vote bank politics, they were kept away from everything." "Today I appeal to all that we have to break that deceit on minorities. We have to gain their trust. We have to move shoulder to shoulder without discriminating on the basis of caste, sect and religion. We are for 130 crore people. These should be our priorities and responsibility. 'Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas aur ab Sabka Vishwas (Everyone`s support, everyone`s development and now everyone`s trust). This is our mantra. I will leave no stone unturned and I will work for all citizens of India," he said. Speaking to the NDA MPs, he said, "You all have elected me as the leader, I think of it as a part of the system, I'm one of you, equal to you" "We are for those who trusted us and also for those whose trust we have to win over". He further claimed that some statements made for publicity often trouble them and asked the NDA leaders to restrict themselves in speaking to media. He also asked the leaders to shun VIP culture and asked them to stand in queues wherever required, like other citizens. "Don't trust media reports on names being considered for ministerial berths, responsibilities will be given as per norms. "Minorities made to live in fear by those who believed in vote-bank politics, we have to end this deception and take everyone along," Modi said. The parliamentary board of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) unanimously elected Prime Minister Narendra Modi as leader of NDA coalition at a meeting in Parliament's Central Hall in New Delhi on Saturday. Amit shah proposed Narendra Modi's name as the leader of BJP Parliamentary Party while Rajnath singh and Nitin Gadkari seconded the proposal which was endorsed by all BJP MPs. Top alliance leaders, including JD(U)'s Nitish Kumar, Shiv Sena's Uddhav Thackeray and Akali Dal's Parkash Singh Badal, extended their party's support after Modi was elected as the leader of the BJP parliamentary party at first. Modi's election was a mere formality as the NDA had already declared him the alliance's prime ministerial candidate. (With inputs from agencies)

2019 elections 'united people' and gave 'positive mandate': PM Modi at parliamentary meet

Impressed with the prime minister, a Muslim woman has decided to name her newborn 'Narendra Damodardas Modi'.

After failing to convince the mother Mainaz Begum against it, the family in Parsapur Mahraur village has filed an affidavit seeking the registration of the name.

Mainaz Begum came up with the idea while names for the boy were being discussed on May 23, the day the Lok Sabha results came in and Narendra Modi won a massive mandate.

People around her tried to make her change her mind, but she was adamant, her father-in-law Idrees told PTI.

When her husband Mushtaq Ahmed, who works in Dubai, was informed, he too tried to make her drop the idea. But he ended up agreeing to his wife's wish.

The family then filed an affidavit addressed to the district magistrate and submitted it to Assistant Development Officer (panchayat) Ghanshyam Pandey.

When contacted, Pandey said he received the affidavit on Friday.

He said the application has been forwarded to the village panchayat secretary, who deals with the registration of births and deaths.

"Action will be taken as per the law," he said.

In the affidavit, Mainaz Begum lavished praise on Modi and his government's welfare schemes, including free cooking gas connection to the poor and financial help to construct toilets.

"He is doing very good work for the country,"&nbsp;it said.

The affidavit also praised Modi for the initiative to end triple talaq.

Her father-in-law Idrees said naming the child was the family's private affair and "no one should interfere in this."

Impressed with the prime minister, a Muslim woman has decided to name her newborn 'Narendra Damodardas Modi'. After failing to convince the mother Mainaz Begum against it, the family in Parsapur Mahraur village has filed an affidavit seeking the registration of the name.

Impressed with the prime minister, a Muslim woman has decided to name her newborn 'Narendra Damodardas Modi'. After failing to convince the mother Mainaz Begum against it, the family in Parsapur Mahraur village has filed an affidavit seeking the registration of the name. Mainaz Begum came up with the idea while names for the boy were being discussed on May 23, the day the Lok Sabha results came in and Narendra Modi won a massive mandate. People around her tried to make her change her mind, but she was adamant, her father-in-law Idrees told PTI. When her husband Mushtaq Ahmed, who works in Dubai, was informed, he too tried to make her drop the idea. But he ended up agreeing to his wife's wish. The family then filed an affidavit addressed to the district magistrate and submitted it to Assistant Development Officer (panchayat) Ghanshyam Pandey. When contacted, Pandey said he received the affidavit on Friday. He said the application has been forwarded to the village panchayat secretary, who deals with the registration of births and deaths. "Action will be taken as per the law," he said. In the affidavit, Mainaz Begum lavished praise on Modi and his government's welfare schemes, including free cooking gas connection to the poor and financial help to construct toilets. "He is doing very good work for the country," it said. The affidavit also praised Modi for the initiative to end triple talaq. Her father-in-law Idrees said naming the child was the family's private affair and "no one should interfere in this."

UP: Muslim woman names newborn 'Narendra Modi'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/nda-lawmakers-meet-in-delhi-to-formally-elect-narendra-modi-as-prime-minister-221557">Modi unanimously elected leader of NDA coalition, to stake claim to form government today</a>

The parliamentary board of the&nbsp;BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA)&nbsp;unanimously elected Prime Minister Narendra Modi as leader of NDA coalition&nbsp;at a meeting in Parliament's Central Hall in New Delhi&nbsp;on Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-troop-boost-threat-to-international-peace-iran-foreign-minister-mohammad-javad-zarif-221514">US troop boost 'threat to international peace': Iran Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif</a>

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Saturday a US decision to deploy 1,500 additional troops to the Middle East is a "threat to international peace," state media reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/what-happened-at-the-cwc-meeting-the-inside-story-221561">What happened at the CWC meeting: The inside story</a>

At the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting on Saturday, party president&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi offered to resign&nbsp;in the wake of&nbsp;humiliating defeat&nbsp;at the hands of the BJP in Lok Sabha elections. The proposal was, however, rejected but not without drama.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-warns-against-war-in-region-amid-iran-tensions-with-us-saudi-221530">Pakistan PM Imran Khan warns against war in region amid Iran tensions with US, Saudi</a>

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan warned against the risk of conflict in the region, following a visit to Islamabad by Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif as tensions between Washington and Tehran escalated.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sexual-favours-charge-hits-afghan-government-221580">'Sexual favours' charge hits Afghan government</a>

&nbsp;

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Modi unanimously elected leader of NDA coalition, to stake claim to form government today The parliamentary board of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) unanimously elected Prime Minister Narendra Modi as leader of NDA coalition at a meeting in Parliament's Central Hall in New Delhi on Saturday.

Modi unanimously elected leader of NDA coalition, to stake claim to form government today The parliamentary board of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) unanimously elected Prime Minister Narendra Modi as leader of NDA coalition at a meeting in Parliament's Central Hall in New Delhi on Saturday. US troop boost 'threat to international peace': Iran Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Saturday a US decision to deploy 1,500 additional troops to the Middle East is a "threat to international peace," state media reported. What happened at the CWC meeting: The inside story At the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting on Saturday, party president Rahul Gandhi offered to resign in the wake of humiliating defeat at the hands of the BJP in Lok Sabha elections. The proposal was, however, rejected but not without drama. Pakistan PM Imran Khan warns against war in region amid Iran tensions with US, Saudi Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan warned against the risk of conflict in the region, following a visit to Islamabad by Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif as tensions between Washington and Tehran escalated. 'Sexual favours' charge hits Afghan government

News brief: Big stories of the day

Beating the anti-incumbency of his first five years in power, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-result-2019-foreign-media-reacts-as-vote-count-shows-an-outright-majority-for-bjp-220859">Prime Minister Modi </a>on Thursday secured an even greater mandate for the second straight term.

Marking another historic victory, PM Modi led BJP crossed over 300 seats in the 2019 Lok Sabha election. The party had won 282 seats in the 2014 general election.

The BJP, which registered a historic win in 2014 by emerging as the first party in three decades to secure a majority on its own, again scripted its name in history after the results threw a stronger number for its existing&nbsp;government.

After this win, PM Modi has become the first non-<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-elections-2019-rash-of-resignations-in-congress-after-election-result-disaster-221242">Congress</a> full majority prime minister to get re-elected with a stronger majority.

The Congress in the 1971 general election had secured a huge victory for the ruling government. Winning 362 out of 520 seats, the party under Indira Gandhi came back to power with a huge mandate.

Jawaharlal Nehru ruled for nearly two decades in the country. Congress under his leadership won three consecutive general elections.

Watch: PM Modi may take oath of office on May 30

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In the first general election held in 1951-52, Nehru won a massive mandate of 364 out of 489 seats. In the second general elections held in 1957, the Congress won 371 seats out of the 494. Securing another landslide victory in his third and final election campaign, the Indian National Congress in 1962 won 361 out of the 494 seats.

The BJP under Atal Bihari Vajpayee had registered another historic victory in 1999 general election when it became the first ever non-Congress government to complete its full tenure in power.&nbsp;

Beating the anti-incumbency of his first five years in power, Prime Minister Modi on Thursday secured an even greater mandate for the second straight term. Marking another historic victory, PM Modi led BJP crossed over 300 seats in the 2019 Lok Sabha election.

Beating the anti-incumbency of his first five years in power, Prime Minister Modi on Thursday secured an even greater mandate for the second straight term. Marking another historic victory, PM Modi led BJP crossed over 300 seats in the 2019 Lok Sabha election. The party had won 282 seats in the 2014 general election. The BJP, which registered a historic win in 2014 by emerging as the first party in three decades to secure a majority on its own, again scripted its name in history after the results threw a stronger number for its existing government. After this win, PM Modi has become the first non-Congress full majority prime minister to get re-elected with a stronger majority. The Congress in the 1971 general election had secured a huge victory for the ruling government. Winning 362 out of 520 seats, the party under Indira Gandhi came back to power with a huge mandate. Jawaharlal Nehru ruled for nearly two decades in the country. Congress under his leadership won three consecutive general elections. Watch: PM Modi may take oath of office on May 30 × In the first general election held in 1951-52, Nehru won a massive mandate of 364 out of 489 seats. In the second general elections held in 1957, the Congress won 371 seats out of the 494. Securing another landslide victory in his third and final election campaign, the Indian National Congress in 1962 won 361 out of the 494 seats. The BJP under Atal Bihari Vajpayee had registered another historic victory in 1999 general election when it became the first ever non-Congress government to complete its full tenure in power.

Modi becomes first non-Congress prime minister to return to power after huge mandate

Narendra Modi-led Bhartiya Janta Party will form the government of India for the next five years after a complete majority win in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-2019-narendra-modi-likely-to-take-oath-as-prime-minister-on-may-30-221221">Lok Sabha election 2019</a>.&nbsp;

The victory is historic as BJP itself won 303 seats that left the opposition dazed and demoralised.&nbsp;

While the counting on few of the seats is still going on, the BJP-led NDA is poised to get 348 of the 542 Lok Sabha seats.&nbsp;

From global leaders to Bollywood stars, wishes poured in for the winner of the world's largest democracy.&nbsp;

Cricket fraternity too shared greetings and wished PM Modi as the ruling party came back in power with a staggering mandate.&nbsp;

Master-blaster Sachin Tendulkar wrote, "My heartiest congratulations to @narendramodi Ji &amp; @BJP4India for winning the #LokSabhaElections2019. The nation is with you in building a brighter and stronger New India."

Virendra Sehwag said, "India has won. The world’s largest democracy has given it’s mandate. Many congratulations to Shri @narendramodi ji on being the leader of this great victory. May the second innings be even better and India continue to progress and reach greater heights. Jai Hind."

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My heartiest congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> Ji &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4India</a> for winning the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a>. 
The nation is with you in building a brighter and stronger New India 🇮🇳.
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1131576584240898048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India has won. The world’s largest democracy has given it’s mandate. Many congratulations to Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji on being the leader of this great victory. May the second innings be even better and India continue to progress and reach greater heights. Jai Hind <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VijayiBharat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VijayiBharat</a> <a href="https://t.co/uQerPssTkH">pic.twitter.com/uQerPssTkH</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1131531325108674560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4India</a> and Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji on a resounding victory. Sincerely hope that India prospers under your leadership in the next 5 years 🙏🏼
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1131528569488756737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Laxman also congratulated Gautam Gambhir, who won the Lok Sabha election from East Delhi constituency.&nbsp;

Laxman wrote, "Many Congratulations @GautamGambhir on your victory. Wish you well always. May you serve people well."&nbsp;

As per the latest reports, the swearing-in ceremony could take place by the middle of next week — May 30 is the likely date.&nbsp;

In the previous Lok Sabha polls,&nbsp;the counting took place on May 16, PM Modi and his cabinet ministers had taken oath on May 26.&nbsp;

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People of the country have given their mandate. Many congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji and <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4India</a> for their second innings and here's hoping for another fantastic term ahead. 🙏
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) <a href="https://twitter.com/SDhawan25/status/1131540653291200512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Indian cricket head coach wrote, "Another stunning @narendramodi &amp; @AmitShah partnership tracerbullets @BJP4India to poll position for second time running. Election results further reaffirm Modi Ji’s leadership of the world's largest democracy. Awesome performance #ModiSweep #IndianElections2019 #VijayiBharat."

All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, "Modi ji's astounding victory is not only the symbol of hope, stability, progress but also it’s a victory of Believers over non-believers. Heartiest congratulations sir. Thank you for being a guiding force for all of us.@narendramodi."

Mohammad Kaif said, "Congratulations PM @narendramodi ji on a resounding victory. May we grow as a nation !"

Spinner R Ashwin said, "Congratulations Prime Minister @narendramodi ji on the resounding victory . I sincerely hope and pray that under your able leadership the country will progress and grow to greater heights"

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&nbsp;

Narendra Modi-led Bhartiya Janta Party will form the government of India for the next five years after a complete majority win in the Lok Sabha election 2019. The victory is historic as BJP itself won 303 seats that left the opposition dazed and demoralised.

Narendra Modi-led Bhartiya Janta Party will form the government of India for the next five years after a complete majority win in the Lok Sabha election 2019. The victory is historic as BJP itself won 303 seats that left the opposition dazed and demoralised. While the counting on few of the seats is still going on, the BJP-led NDA is poised to get 348 of the 542 Lok Sabha seats. From global leaders to Bollywood stars, wishes poured in for the winner of the world's largest democracy. Cricket fraternity too shared greetings and wished PM Modi as the ruling party came back in power with a staggering mandate. Master-blaster Sachin Tendulkar wrote, "My heartiest congratulations to @narendramodi Ji & @BJP4India for winning the #LokSabhaElections2019. The nation is with you in building a brighter and stronger New India." Virendra Sehwag said, "India has won. The world’s largest democracy has given it’s mandate. Many congratulations to Shri @narendramodi ji on being the leader of this great victory. May the second innings be even better and India continue to progress and reach greater heights. Jai Hind." My heartiest congratulations to @narendramodi Ji & @BJP4India for winning the #LokSabhaElections2019. The nation is with you in building a brighter and stronger New India 🇮🇳. — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) May 23, 2019 × India has won. The world’s largest democracy has given it’s mandate. Many congratulations to Shri @narendramodi ji on being the leader of this great victory. May the second innings be even better and India continue to progress and reach greater heights. Jai Hind #VijayiBharat pic.twitter.com/uQerPssTkH — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) May 23, 2019 × Congratulations to @BJP4India and Shri @narendramodi ji on a resounding victory. Sincerely hope that India prospers under your leadership in the next 5 years 🙏🏼 — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) May 23, 2019 × Laxman also congratulated Gautam Gambhir, who won the Lok Sabha election from East Delhi constituency. Laxman wrote, "Many Congratulations @GautamGambhir on your victory. Wish you well always. May you serve people well." As per the latest reports, the swearing-in ceremony could take place by the middle of next week — May 30 is the likely date. In the previous Lok Sabha polls, the counting took place on May 16, PM Modi and his cabinet ministers had taken oath on May 26. People of the country have given their mandate. Many congratulations to @narendramodi ji and @BJP4India for their second innings and here's hoping for another fantastic term ahead. 🙏 — Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) May 23, 2019 × Indian cricket head coach wrote, "Another stunning @narendramodi & @AmitShah partnership tracerbullets @BJP4India to poll position for second time running. Election results further reaffirm Modi Ji’s leadership of the world's largest democracy. Awesome performance #ModiSweep #IndianElections2019 #VijayiBharat." All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, "Modi ji's astounding victory is not only the symbol of hope, stability, progress but also it’s a victory of Believers over non-believers. Heartiest congratulations sir. Thank you for being a guiding force for all of us.@narendramodi." Mohammad Kaif said, "Congratulations PM @narendramodi ji on a resounding victory. May we grow as a nation !" Spinner R Ashwin said, "Congratulations Prime Minister @narendramodi ji on the resounding victory . I sincerely hope and pray that under your able leadership the country will progress and grow to greater heights" ×

From Sachin to Laxman, cricket fraternity wishes PM Modi for sweeping Lok Sabha 2019 election

The Union Cabinet is scheduled to meet on Friday to pass a resolution on the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha. Also, the Parliamentary Board of BJP will meet today in the evening while Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to address the party workers here at 5.30 pm.

Council of Ministers meeting will also be held on&nbsp;Friday. The ruling BJP is set to storm back to power with a comfortable majority on its own for the second consecutive time and is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-election-results-2019-live-updates-220687">set to cross the 300-mark along with its allies in the Lok Sabha</a>.

Their campaign was spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on muscular nationalism and a strident anti-Congress plank.

On the other side, the main challenger Congress is way behind, leading in only 50 seats. Prime Minister Modi is leading comfortably in Varanasi where he is seeking a second term while UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi leading in Raebareli.&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi was trailing behind Union Minister Smriti Irani in Amethi while leading in Wayanad in Kerala.

Watch:&nbsp;'There is no place for dynasty rulers, corrupt leaders in this nation' says Yogi Adityanath

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The Union Cabinet is scheduled to meet on Friday to pass a resolution on the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha. Also, the Parliamentary Board of BJP will meet today in the evening while Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to address the party workers here at 5.

The Union Cabinet is scheduled to meet on Friday to pass a resolution on the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha. Also, the Parliamentary Board of BJP will meet today in the evening while Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to address the party workers here at 5.30 pm. Council of Ministers meeting will also be held on Friday. The ruling BJP is set to storm back to power with a comfortable majority on its own for the second consecutive time and is set to cross the 300-mark along with its allies in the Lok Sabha. Their campaign was spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on muscular nationalism and a strident anti-Congress plank. On the other side, the main challenger Congress is way behind, leading in only 50 seats. Prime Minister Modi is leading comfortably in Varanasi where he is seeking a second term while UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi leading in Raebareli. Congress president Rahul Gandhi was trailing behind Union Minister Smriti Irani in Amethi while leading in Wayanad in Kerala. Watch: 'There is no place for dynasty rulers, corrupt leaders in this nation' says Yogi Adityanath ×

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Union Cabinet to meet on Friday

From just two seats in Lok Sabha in 1984 to win two back-to-back majority in general elections, the BJP with its right-wing Hindutva ideology has firmly taken the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-election-results-2019-live-updates-220687">centre-stage of India's political landscape</a>, displacing the Congress.&nbsp;

With the Ram temple movement in 1990s, its graph started rising but its influence remained largely restricted to Hindi heartland and the party emerged as the single largest party in 1996 under the leadership of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.&nbsp;

The party for the first time formed government in 1996 for 13 days and then for 13 months in 1998 when its government lost by a single vote in Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

It was Vajpayee's pragmatic leadership which helped the party shed its "untouchable" tag as it forged new alliances and led the first non-Congress government which completed its five-year tenure.&nbsp;

It tasted stratospheric success with the emergence of Narendra Modi on national scene and the party won majority on its own for the first time in 2014 while expanding its footprint beyond Hindi heartland, especially in the Northeast region.&nbsp;

Few had imagined the BJP would be able to travel this far when it was founded on April 6, 1980. The party originated from Jan Sangh, which had merged with the Janata Party 1n 1977 but three years later splintered.&nbsp;

When the saffron party contested its first election in 1984, it won only two Lok Sabha seats. Following which, then party president L K Advani made Hindutva as the core ideology of the party and used the rhetoric of "pseudo-secularism" and "Muslim appeasement" to great effect in winning popular support among the Hindus.&nbsp;

The hardline Hindutva politics, which was in line with its ideological parent RSS's ideology, paid rich electoral dividends in the next general elections in 1989 when the BJP won 85 Lok Sabha seats. Following Advani's 'Ram Rath Yatra' in 1990, the party grew in strength and in the 1991 general elections, it increased its strength to 120.

The party's vote share went up to 20.1 per cent in 1991 from 11.4 per cent in 1989 and 7.4 per cent in 1984.

In the 1996 general elections, the BJP for the first time became the single largest party in Lok Sabha by winning 161 seats and staked claim to form the government.

The first ever BJP-led government, formed under the leadership of Vajpayee, lasted for only 13 days as it failed to attract allies to muster a majority.

In the next general polls in 1998, the BJP's tally increased and it got 182 seats in the Lok Sabha and formed a coalition government called the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which lasted 13 months when it lost a no-confidence motion by a single vote.

A year later, the BJP came back to power as the NDA won 270 seats in the general elections on its own, with the party again getting 182 seats. And Vajpayee became prime minister for the third time.

This time BJP's government lasted the full term until the next general polls in 2004, from where the BJP's decline started as it lost two back-to-back general elections.

A change of fortunes happened in 2014 with the emergence of Narendra Modi on the national scene as the face of the saffron party and under his leadership the BJP won 282 seats on its own. And this was perhaps the first party in three decade when any party had got majority on its own.

Following the BJP's massive victory and splendid performance in Uttar Pradesh, Amit Shah, who was in charge of the state, was rewarded with party's top post.

With this change of ranks in the party's leadership, a new era of Modi-Shah duo started which led to the party's victory in various state assembly elections and the BJP was ruling the 18 states at one point of time.

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The party, which is again all set to win, now occupies the centre-stage of Indian political landscape. With it being the strongest political entity in the country, the BJP has become the central focal point of Indian politics and become the common enemy of all the opposition parties.&nbsp;

From just two seats in Lok Sabha in 1984 to win two back-to-back majority in general elections, the BJP with its right-wing Hindutva ideology has firmly taken the centre-stage of India's political landscape, displacing the Congress.

From just two seats in Lok Sabha in 1984 to win two back-to-back majority in general elections, the BJP with its right-wing Hindutva ideology has firmly taken the centre-stage of India's political landscape, displacing the Congress. With the Ram temple movement in 1990s, its graph started rising but its influence remained largely restricted to Hindi heartland and the party emerged as the single largest party in 1996 under the leadership of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The party for the first time formed government in 1996 for 13 days and then for 13 months in 1998 when its government lost by a single vote in Lok Sabha. It was Vajpayee's pragmatic leadership which helped the party shed its "untouchable" tag as it forged new alliances and led the first non-Congress government which completed its five-year tenure. It tasted stratospheric success with the emergence of Narendra Modi on national scene and the party won majority on its own for the first time in 2014 while expanding its footprint beyond Hindi heartland, especially in the Northeast region. Few had imagined the BJP would be able to travel this far when it was founded on April 6, 1980. The party originated from Jan Sangh, which had merged with the Janata Party 1n 1977 but three years later splintered. When the saffron party contested its first election in 1984, it won only two Lok Sabha seats. Following which, then party president L K Advani made Hindutva as the core ideology of the party and used the rhetoric of "pseudo-secularism" and "Muslim appeasement" to great effect in winning popular support among the Hindus. The hardline Hindutva politics, which was in line with its ideological parent RSS's ideology, paid rich electoral dividends in the next general elections in 1989 when the BJP won 85 Lok Sabha seats. Following Advani's 'Ram Rath Yatra' in 1990, the party grew in strength and in the 1991 general elections, it increased its strength to 120. The party's vote share went up to 20.1 per cent in 1991 from 11.4 per cent in 1989 and 7.4 per cent in 1984. In the 1996 general elections, the BJP for the first time became the single largest party in Lok Sabha by winning 161 seats and staked claim to form the government. The first ever BJP-led government, formed under the leadership of Vajpayee, lasted for only 13 days as it failed to attract allies to muster a majority. In the next general polls in 1998, the BJP's tally increased and it got 182 seats in the Lok Sabha and formed a coalition government called the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which lasted 13 months when it lost a no-confidence motion by a single vote. A year later, the BJP came back to power as the NDA won 270 seats in the general elections on its own, with the party again getting 182 seats. And Vajpayee became prime minister for the third time. This time BJP's government lasted the full term until the next general polls in 2004, from where the BJP's decline started as it lost two back-to-back general elections. A change of fortunes happened in 2014 with the emergence of Narendra Modi on the national scene as the face of the saffron party and under his leadership the BJP won 282 seats on its own. And this was perhaps the first party in three decade when any party had got majority on its own. Following the BJP's massive victory and splendid performance in Uttar Pradesh, Amit Shah, who was in charge of the state, was rewarded with party's top post. With this change of ranks in the party's leadership, a new era of Modi-Shah duo started which led to the party's victory in various state assembly elections and the BJP was ruling the 18 states at one point of time. × The party, which is again all set to win, now occupies the centre-stage of Indian political landscape. With it being the strongest political entity in the country, the BJP has become the central focal point of Indian politics and become the common enemy of all the opposition parties.

BJP's journey from just two seats in Lok Sabha in 1984 to winning two back-to-back majority

Shares rose for a fourth session to record highs on Tuesday, led by heavyweights including Reliance Industries Ltd, as expectations of a stable government ran high after exit polls on Sunday projected Prime Minister Narendra Modi winning a second term.

Expert's view: Sensex crosses 39,500 mark for first time

Exit polls 2019 predict a big victory for PM Modi-led NDA

One of the biggest surprises of the 2019 elections will be BJP’s expanding footprints in the country, in areas considered out of bounds for the party thus far.&nbsp;

In the last two terms as party chief, Amit Shah has worked assiduously on a strategy to take the BJP to every nook and corner of the country, expanding its electoral base. The 2019 elections are going to be a test of the success Amit Shah has achieved.&nbsp;

Reports from across the country clearly suggest that the BJP has succeeded in taking major strides in south and east India, areas so far known as a non-BJP territory.&nbsp;

It is the outcome of a series of strategic advances taken by the party president in the last five years that has transformed the BJP into a relevant fighting force in Odisha, West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Northeast states like Tripura, Manipur, Nagaland, Arunachal and Meghalaya.

The Northeast, including Assam, sends 25 MPs to the Lok Sabha and the BJP hopes to win up to 20 seats. In the 2014 Lok Sabha poll, a majority of the 14 Assam seats went to the BJP.&nbsp;

The party made a historic entry&nbsp;in Assam and Tripura by winning&nbsp;a two- thirds majority to form state&nbsp;governments.&nbsp;

In Arunachal Pradesh, the massive exodus from the Congress to the BJP, led to the formation of a BJP government in the state two years ago. Since then, the party has consolidated itself. As junior partner, BJP is part of the state governments in Manipur, Meghalaya and Nagaland.

The stunning victory of the party in Tripura in the 2017 assembly election, which ended three decades of CPM rule, created history, generating a groundswell of support for the BJP in the entire region.

Equally significant is the party’s gains in local bodies’ elections in West Bengal and Odisha in 2018 and 2017 respectively. The substantial gains have established it as the main challenger to Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress in Bengal and Naveen Patnaik’s Biju Janata Dal in Orissa.&nbsp;

The BJP has also gained by attracting top-ranking leaders like Mukul Roy in West Bengal from Trinamool and Jay Panda from BJD in Odisha. A large number of middle rung and local leaders of these parties have migrated into the BJP fold in these states.&nbsp;

Amit Shah’s three dream projects, Maha Sadasyada Abhiyan, Maha Sampark Abhiyan and Prashikshan Mahabhiyan – membership, contact, and training the cadre – has generated the desired atmospherics for BJP to expand.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Trinamool Congress never expected organised opposition to its appeasement politics in Bengal. Mamata Banerjee built her political fortune by inducting erstwhile CPM goons, Bangladeshi infiltrators and the radicalised Madrasa gang.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The ‘Ma, Maati, Manush’ slogan in the initial stages of the Trinamool movement, generated great goodwill for the party in its bid to oust the three-decade-long Left Front misrule. Later, her politics slipped into the old CPM rut – money, muscle and Muslim clergy power.&nbsp;

By focussing on West Bengal for the last four years through meticulous planning, micro-management and strategy, the ground was being readied for the BJP’s emergence as a major contender. Amit Shah has made as many as two dozen trips to Bengal to organise and inspire the cadre in the last three years.

The BJP strategy in south India has varied from state to state. In Karnataka, the party always had a good base. It hopes to improve upon its tally of 18 in 2014. In Tamil Nadu, the BJP strategy was to cobble up a coalition of like-minded parties under the leadership of AIADMK. The coalition has worked well and is expected to put up a formidable challenge to the DMK front, winning half the seats in the state.&nbsp;

In Kerala, a combination of events has created favourable conditions for the BJP. The Sabarimala issue was mishandled by the Left Front government, proving a boon for the BJP. The party found its Ayodhya moment in the Sabarimala issue to penetrate the mass psyche.&nbsp;

It championed the believer’s cause effectively to transform itself into a party of the masses. The BJP president, by making a number of trips to Kerala and challenging Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's pro-atheist, anti-Hindu stand, has consolidated public sentiment in favour of the party.

The state BJP was clueless about its options till Amit Shah emerged on the scene, guiding the party to take an openly pro-devotee stand on the issue. His appeal electrified the cadre, making the BJP take to streets with a vengeance.&nbsp;

Over 50,000 cases were filed against BJP workers by the CPM government, but this has turned the tide against the CPM. It is this dip in the CPM support base that is likely to help BJP emerge as the new third force in Kerala.

Whether it makes electoral gains here or not, the party is a major political option for voters fed up with the alternative communal politics of the UDF and the LDF.

The BJP aims to gain as many as 80 seats in the new areas in 2019, so that any shortfall can be compensated. Thanks to Amit Shah’s vision, the BJP today is a pan-Indian force, not dependent only on the catchment areas to win seats.&nbsp;

These huge additions from the new areas, is bound to change politics for ever in India. Like the Congress of the 1960s, the BJP today is the party of power, in almost every state. And the credit for making it goes mainly to Amit Shah. Narendra Modi’s all India appeal and charisma has, of course, made the job easier.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-grand-amit-shah-outreach-2750515">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

One of the biggest surprises of the 2019 elections will be BJP’s expanding footprints in the country, in areas considered out of bounds for the party thus far. In the last two terms as party chief, Amit Shah has worked assiduously on a strategy to take the BJP to every nook and corner of the country, expanding its electoral base.

One of the biggest surprises of the 2019 elections will be BJP’s expanding footprints in the country, in areas considered out of bounds for the party thus far. In the last two terms as party chief, Amit Shah has worked assiduously on a strategy to take the BJP to every nook and corner of the country, expanding its electoral base. The 2019 elections are going to be a test of the success Amit Shah has achieved. Reports from across the country clearly suggest that the BJP has succeeded in taking major strides in south and east India, areas so far known as a non-BJP territory. It is the outcome of a series of strategic advances taken by the party president in the last five years that has transformed the BJP into a relevant fighting force in Odisha, West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Northeast states like Tripura, Manipur, Nagaland, Arunachal and Meghalaya. The Northeast, including Assam, sends 25 MPs to the Lok Sabha and the BJP hopes to win up to 20 seats. In the 2014 Lok Sabha poll, a majority of the 14 Assam seats went to the BJP. The party made a historic entry in Assam and Tripura by winning a two- thirds majority to form state governments. In Arunachal Pradesh, the massive exodus from the Congress to the BJP, led to the formation of a BJP government in the state two years ago. Since then, the party has consolidated itself. As junior partner, BJP is part of the state governments in Manipur, Meghalaya and Nagaland. The stunning victory of the party in Tripura in the 2017 assembly election, which ended three decades of CPM rule, created history, generating a groundswell of support for the BJP in the entire region. Equally significant is the party’s gains in local bodies’ elections in West Bengal and Odisha in 2018 and 2017 respectively. The substantial gains have established it as the main challenger to Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress in Bengal and Naveen Patnaik’s Biju Janata Dal in Orissa. The BJP has also gained by attracting top-ranking leaders like Mukul Roy in West Bengal from Trinamool and Jay Panda from BJD in Odisha. A large number of middle rung and local leaders of these parties have migrated into the BJP fold in these states. Amit Shah’s three dream projects, Maha Sadasyada Abhiyan, Maha Sampark Abhiyan and Prashikshan Mahabhiyan – membership, contact, and training the cadre – has generated the desired atmospherics for BJP to expand. The Trinamool Congress never expected organised opposition to its appeasement politics in Bengal. Mamata Banerjee built her political fortune by inducting erstwhile CPM goons, Bangladeshi infiltrators and the radicalised Madrasa gang. The ‘Ma, Maati, Manush’ slogan in the initial stages of the Trinamool movement, generated great goodwill for the party in its bid to oust the three-decade-long Left Front misrule. Later, her politics slipped into the old CPM rut – money, muscle and Muslim clergy power. By focussing on West Bengal for the last four years through meticulous planning, micro-management and strategy, the ground was being readied for the BJP’s emergence as a major contender. Amit Shah has made as many as two dozen trips to Bengal to organise and inspire the cadre in the last three years. The BJP strategy in south India has varied from state to state. In Karnataka, the party always had a good base. It hopes to improve upon its tally of 18 in 2014. In Tamil Nadu, the BJP strategy was to cobble up a coalition of like-minded parties under the leadership of AIADMK. The coalition has worked well and is expected to put up a formidable challenge to the DMK front, winning half the seats in the state. In Kerala, a combination of events has created favourable conditions for the BJP. The Sabarimala issue was mishandled by the Left Front government, proving a boon for the BJP. The party found its Ayodhya moment in the Sabarimala issue to penetrate the mass psyche. It championed the believer’s cause effectively to transform itself into a party of the masses. The BJP president, by making a number of trips to Kerala and challenging Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's pro-atheist, anti-Hindu stand, has consolidated public sentiment in favour of the party. The state BJP was clueless about its options till Amit Shah emerged on the scene, guiding the party to take an openly pro-devotee stand on the issue. His appeal electrified the cadre, making the BJP take to streets with a vengeance. Over 50,000 cases were filed against BJP workers by the CPM government, but this has turned the tide against the CPM. It is this dip in the CPM support base that is likely to help BJP emerge as the new third force in Kerala. Whether it makes electoral gains here or not, the party is a major political option for voters fed up with the alternative communal politics of the UDF and the LDF. The BJP aims to gain as many as 80 seats in the new areas in 2019, so that any shortfall can be compensated. Thanks to Amit Shah’s vision, the BJP today is a pan-Indian force, not dependent only on the catchment areas to win seats. These huge additions from the new areas, is bound to change politics for ever in India. Like the Congress of the 1960s, the BJP today is the party of power, in almost every state. And the credit for making it goes mainly to Amit Shah. Narendra Modi’s all India appeal and charisma has, of course, made the job easier. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Grand Amit Shah outreach

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/will-make-sedition-law-more-stringent-rajnath-singh-219016">Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh </a>on Thursday said that inflation is not an issue in the ongoing elections as it has been well controlled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre.

"If you go through Indian elections` history, you will see inflation was an issue in all of them. People used to sing `Congress sarkar aayi hai, kamartod mehengai layi hai` (Congress government has come and brought high inflation along with it). But 2004 and 2019 are two elections where there were issues but inflation was not one of them," Singh said while addressing an election rally in Himachal Pradesh.

"There was Atal Bihari Vajpayee`s government before 2004 and Narendra Modi`s before 2019. Both of them handled economic management well and attacked corruption. Pakistan`s inflation rate is 10-12 per cent and India`s is 2-3 per cent. We did not let inflation cross Indo-Pak border and enter here," he said.

The Home Minister was addressing the rally in support of sitting BJP MP Ram Swaroop Sharma from Mandi Lok Sabha seat.

The four Lok Sabha seats in Himachal Pradesh, including Mandi, would go for polling on May 19.

The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said that inflation is not an issue in the ongoing elections as it has been well controlled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said that inflation is not an issue in the ongoing elections as it has been well controlled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre. "If you go through Indian elections` history, you will see inflation was an issue in all of them. People used to sing `Congress sarkar aayi hai, kamartod mehengai layi hai` (Congress government has come and brought high inflation along with it). But 2004 and 2019 are two elections where there were issues but inflation was not one of them," Singh said while addressing an election rally in Himachal Pradesh. "There was Atal Bihari Vajpayee`s government before 2004 and Narendra Modi`s before 2019. Both of them handled economic management well and attacked corruption. Pakistan`s inflation rate is 10-12 per cent and India`s is 2-3 per cent. We did not let inflation cross Indo-Pak border and enter here," he said. The Home Minister was addressing the rally in support of sitting BJP MP Ram Swaroop Sharma from Mandi Lok Sabha seat. The four Lok Sabha seats in Himachal Pradesh, including Mandi, would go for polling on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Inflation not issue in 2019, Modi handled economy well: Rajnath Singh

Calling himself a 'Kashi vaasi'- resident of Varanasi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is seeking re-election from the Lok Sabha seat, issued an emotional message for people of the constituency and sought their blessings for victory.

Modi outlined his personal and emotional association with the city and its people in a video released by his website on Monday.

"It is often said that whosoever come to Kashi even once, becomes part of the city. In the last five years, I have experienced this every passing moment. In moulding me and giving a direction to my political and spiritual being, Kashi has a huge influence on me."

Modi underlined that Kashi is not a mere word for him, but an inspiration, in terms of religion, spirituality, and culture. "I am fortunate that its people provided me with an opportunity to serve," he said.

The Prime Minister further spoke about the presiding deity of the city- Lord Kashi Vishwanath and said it is a matter of satisfaction for him to be in service of the city.

"The city which is favourite of Baba Vishwanath doesn't need anyone else. But that fact that my life could be of any use for Kashi is a matter of great satisfaction for me. My people of Kashi have blessed me by giving me an opportunity to serve them," Modi said in the moving message.

Asserting that he is proud of people's participation in the development of Varanasi in the last five years, Modi added that it serves as an example for the whole country. He also outlined various developmental initiatives undertaken in the city during his tenure.

"Be it houses or toilets, free LPG or electricity connection, Varanasi has presented an ideal example of development in all sectors. Artisans were able to get global exposure for their products through Deendayal Hastkala Sankul. Construction of two new cancer hospitals provided relief to not only people of Varanasi but also of nearby areas. Every attempt has been made for the welfare of farmers, traders, businessman, youth and 'mallahs' (boatmen) of Kashi," said Modi.

He also spoke about road and highway construction and makeover of Maduadih railway station and multi-model terminal on river Ganga, and called them "major infrastructural changes".

The city's parliamentarian termed the construction of the new Kashi Vishwanath corridor as a "makeover" while adding that it will be a subject of awe.

Modi also stressed upon Kashi's significance and said a lot of work is still left to be do be done. "In last five years, we have done a lot of work for Kashi but a lot is still left. We have to do this together. It is our vow that we will not let the speed of this development stop," he remarked.

In what sounded like a hint that he will not be campaigning in the constituency ahead of voting day, the Prime Minister said, "This time when I came for the roadshow, you assured me that you will handle everything. I have faith in every word. For me, those words are a promise. I know that every resident of Kashi is fighting elections for and as Narendra Modi."

He urged people to go for early voting and avoid the scorching summer sun and asked them to celebrate the exercise as a festival.

"Everyone must participate in the biggest celebration of democracy. You should also encourage your friends and relatives to vote. The whole country will be looking towards Kashi on that day. Go out in large numbers, wear your traditional clothes, and celebrate the day of voting with joy and fervor. Kashi has to make a new record now when the whole country is looking up to it. The record of the whole country should be broken by Kashi," said Modi.

Referring to himself as a 'Kashi vaasi', Prime Minister concluded his address with chants of 'Har Har Mahadev' and 'Har Har Gange'.

Modi held a massive road-show in Varanasi before filling his nomination on April 26. In a show of strength, almost all prominent leaders of the BJP, as well as members of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and North-East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) accompanied him. He won the seat in 2014, defeating Aam Aadmi Party national convenor and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by a massive margin of 3.37 lakh votes.

The highly-priced Lok Sabha constituency will vote on May 19, the last phase of national polls with results scheduled for May 23.&nbsp;

Calling himself a 'Kashi vaasi'- resident of Varanasi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is seeking re-election from the Lok Sabha seat, issued an emotional message for people of the constituency and sought their blessings for victory.

Calling himself a 'Kashi vaasi'- resident of Varanasi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is seeking re-election from the Lok Sabha seat, issued an emotional message for people of the constituency and sought their blessings for victory. Modi outlined his personal and emotional association with the city and its people in a video released by his website on Monday. "It is often said that whosoever come to Kashi even once, becomes part of the city. In the last five years, I have experienced this every passing moment. In moulding me and giving a direction to my political and spiritual being, Kashi has a huge influence on me." Modi underlined that Kashi is not a mere word for him, but an inspiration, in terms of religion, spirituality, and culture. "I am fortunate that its people provided me with an opportunity to serve," he said. The Prime Minister further spoke about the presiding deity of the city- Lord Kashi Vishwanath and said it is a matter of satisfaction for him to be in service of the city. "The city which is favourite of Baba Vishwanath doesn't need anyone else. But that fact that my life could be of any use for Kashi is a matter of great satisfaction for me. My people of Kashi have blessed me by giving me an opportunity to serve them," Modi said in the moving message. Asserting that he is proud of people's participation in the development of Varanasi in the last five years, Modi added that it serves as an example for the whole country. He also outlined various developmental initiatives undertaken in the city during his tenure. "Be it houses or toilets, free LPG or electricity connection, Varanasi has presented an ideal example of development in all sectors. Artisans were able to get global exposure for their products through Deendayal Hastkala Sankul. Construction of two new cancer hospitals provided relief to not only people of Varanasi but also of nearby areas. Every attempt has been made for the welfare of farmers, traders, businessman, youth and 'mallahs' (boatmen) of Kashi," said Modi. He also spoke about road and highway construction and makeover of Maduadih railway station and multi-model terminal on river Ganga, and called them "major infrastructural changes". The city's parliamentarian termed the construction of the new Kashi Vishwanath corridor as a "makeover" while adding that it will be a subject of awe. Modi also stressed upon Kashi's significance and said a lot of work is still left to be do be done. "In last five years, we have done a lot of work for Kashi but a lot is still left. We have to do this together. It is our vow that we will not let the speed of this development stop," he remarked. In what sounded like a hint that he will not be campaigning in the constituency ahead of voting day, the Prime Minister said, "This time when I came for the roadshow, you assured me that you will handle everything. I have faith in every word. For me, those words are a promise. I know that every resident of Kashi is fighting elections for and as Narendra Modi." He urged people to go for early voting and avoid the scorching summer sun and asked them to celebrate the exercise as a festival. "Everyone must participate in the biggest celebration of democracy. You should also encourage your friends and relatives to vote. The whole country will be looking towards Kashi on that day. Go out in large numbers, wear your traditional clothes, and celebrate the day of voting with joy and fervor. Kashi has to make a new record now when the whole country is looking up to it. The record of the whole country should be broken by Kashi," said Modi. Referring to himself as a 'Kashi vaasi', Prime Minister concluded his address with chants of 'Har Har Mahadev' and 'Har Har Gange'. Modi held a massive road-show in Varanasi before filling his nomination on April 26. In a show of strength, almost all prominent leaders of the BJP, as well as members of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and North-East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) accompanied him. He won the seat in 2014, defeating Aam Aadmi Party national convenor and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by a massive margin of 3.37 lakh votes. The highly-priced Lok Sabha constituency will vote on May 19, the last phase of national polls with results scheduled for May 23.

Every resident contesting on my behalf: PM Modi's emotional message to Varanasi

Just when we are nearing the close of this gruelling election season, Time magazine Asia’s cover story for May 20 has been receiving wide publicity. It shows a grim-looking Narendra Modi, in an Indian style black bandgala jacket, now popularly known as a Modi jacket, and a saffron shawl draped around his neck. So far so good. Why shouldn’t an Indian serving Prime Minister and most visible candidate, besides most likely to be re-elected incumbent, not grace the cover of an international newsmagazine, especially towards the end of the world’s largest and greatest parliamentary elections? Nearly a billion voters are eligible to cast their secret ballots in the mother of all election battles. Surely, this deserves the attention of the world.&nbsp;

But, wait a minute. What’s the caption next to the photo? “India’s Divider in Chief.” The cover story so titled is by gifted writer and novelist, Aatish Taseer. As if to offer a slightly balancing backup, also blazoned on the cover, is “Modi the Reformer” by Ian Bremmer. After reading both, one cannot but be disappointed. Bremmer makes an attempt to paint Modi in contradictory more than contrasting colours as both economic reformer and failure. There is little approbation for the huge slew of reforms and improvements carried out by the government. Hardly a word in favour of the palpable reduction in corruption, swacch bharat, ujjwala, infrastructure development, reduction in inflation, and blistering growth rate, many of which are seen as incomplete or inadequate. Bremmer’s scathing scepticism may be dismissed as typical of the fading vestiges of the white man’s burden, now more evident in envious disbelief of India’s economic miracle than in any mandate to rule the world.&nbsp;

But it is Taseer’s spleen-driven surliness, almost childishly querulous at times, that is galling. How can the cover-story on Indian elections be such a malevolent diatribe against a single man? There is not the least semblance of neutrality or objectivity here, nor attempt to present a sensible or balanced appraisal. It is an out-and-out hatchet job, full of selectively vicious quotes and incidents, often taken out of context and strung together to amount to a damning indictment. Repeatedly highlighting the plight of the frightened and disenfranchised minorities, mostly Muslims, under assault from the Hindu majority that Taseer portrays as invariably callous, even murderous, his article is nothing short of a doomsday dismissal of both Modi and India.&nbsp;

How to understand Taseer’s fustian fulminations? A good word for his kind of discourse would be re-Orientalism. Coined some ten years back by Lisa Lau, re-Orientalism refers to the continuation of narrative colonialism in post-colonial times. The major difference, however, is that its purveyors and perpetrators are no longer (mostly) white men, but “Orientals” such as ourselves. Mostly diasporic and highly privileged, these re-Orientalists, distort “the representation of the Orient, seizing voice and platform, and once again consigning the Oriental within the Orient to a position of ‘The Other.’” Taseer, with his last book on — what else but Varanasi — surely fits the bill. There is little room for the common Indian or the “real” India in his works, most of which are manufactured and intended for a Western audience.&nbsp;

There are ironies and contradictions galore in Taseer’s piece. “The Great Divider” was a moniker invented for none other than Barack Hussain Obama, the darling of Left Liberals the world over. If Donald Trump inherited it, it was by its sheer currency as an established political descriptor. The big contradiction, when it comes to Modi, is that Modi is actually India’s great Unifier-in-Chief. Modi has not only united Hindus as never before, but also integrated the great Indian middle class into a powerful political formation. He has given them a voice in addition to a vote. He has also unified the opposition, as Taseer acknowledges, “with no agenda other than to defeat him.”&nbsp;

Luckily, there is a silver lining to Taseer’s febrile lamentations. The more Modi is berated in the Western—or for that matter the Indian — media, the more popular he becomes with the Indian masses. Time Asia’s cover story, negative though it certainly is, will strengthen the resolve of the educated classes to vote for him. Especially given of the contempt poured out on their choice of him his their PM, they will take such denunciations as an additional reason make good on the promise, phir ek baar Modi Sarkar (one more time, Modi in power). In the end, of course, what Time says, or does not, matters little to us. We have moved on. To that extent, Taseer’s cover story may end up, if not as a last minute free fillip to campaign Modi, then little more than a blip, a momentary flicker or irritated swipe on a smartphone screen.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-prime-minister-narendra-modi-great-unifier-or-divider-2748002">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

Just when we are nearing the close of this gruelling election season, Time magazine Asia’s cover story for May 20 has been receiving wide publicity. It shows a grim-looking Narendra Modi, in an Indian style black bandgala jacket, now popularly known as a Modi jacket, and a saffron shawl draped around his neck.

Just when we are nearing the close of this gruelling election season, Time magazine Asia’s cover story for May 20 has been receiving wide publicity. It shows a grim-looking Narendra Modi, in an Indian style black bandgala jacket, now popularly known as a Modi jacket, and a saffron shawl draped around his neck. So far so good. Why shouldn’t an Indian serving Prime Minister and most visible candidate, besides most likely to be re-elected incumbent, not grace the cover of an international newsmagazine, especially towards the end of the world’s largest and greatest parliamentary elections? Nearly a billion voters are eligible to cast their secret ballots in the mother of all election battles. Surely, this deserves the attention of the world. But, wait a minute. What’s the caption next to the photo? “India’s Divider in Chief.” The cover story so titled is by gifted writer and novelist, Aatish Taseer. As if to offer a slightly balancing backup, also blazoned on the cover, is “Modi the Reformer” by Ian Bremmer. After reading both, one cannot but be disappointed. Bremmer makes an attempt to paint Modi in contradictory more than contrasting colours as both economic reformer and failure. There is little approbation for the huge slew of reforms and improvements carried out by the government. Hardly a word in favour of the palpable reduction in corruption, swacch bharat, ujjwala, infrastructure development, reduction in inflation, and blistering growth rate, many of which are seen as incomplete or inadequate. Bremmer’s scathing scepticism may be dismissed as typical of the fading vestiges of the white man’s burden, now more evident in envious disbelief of India’s economic miracle than in any mandate to rule the world. But it is Taseer’s spleen-driven surliness, almost childishly querulous at times, that is galling. How can the cover-story on Indian elections be such a malevolent diatribe against a single man? There is not the least semblance of neutrality or objectivity here, nor attempt to present a sensible or balanced appraisal. It is an out-and-out hatchet job, full of selectively vicious quotes and incidents, often taken out of context and strung together to amount to a damning indictment. Repeatedly highlighting the plight of the frightened and disenfranchised minorities, mostly Muslims, under assault from the Hindu majority that Taseer portrays as invariably callous, even murderous, his article is nothing short of a doomsday dismissal of both Modi and India. How to understand Taseer’s fustian fulminations? A good word for his kind of discourse would be re-Orientalism. Coined some ten years back by Lisa Lau, re-Orientalism refers to the continuation of narrative colonialism in post-colonial times. The major difference, however, is that its purveyors and perpetrators are no longer (mostly) white men, but “Orientals” such as ourselves. Mostly diasporic and highly privileged, these re-Orientalists, distort “the representation of the Orient, seizing voice and platform, and once again consigning the Oriental within the Orient to a position of ‘The Other.’” Taseer, with his last book on — what else but Varanasi — surely fits the bill. There is little room for the common Indian or the “real” India in his works, most of which are manufactured and intended for a Western audience. There are ironies and contradictions galore in Taseer’s piece. “The Great Divider” was a moniker invented for none other than Barack Hussain Obama, the darling of Left Liberals the world over. If Donald Trump inherited it, it was by its sheer currency as an established political descriptor. The big contradiction, when it comes to Modi, is that Modi is actually India’s great Unifier-in-Chief. Modi has not only united Hindus as never before, but also integrated the great Indian middle class into a powerful political formation. He has given them a voice in addition to a vote. He has also unified the opposition, as Taseer acknowledges, “with no agenda other than to defeat him.” Luckily, there is a silver lining to Taseer’s febrile lamentations. The more Modi is berated in the Western—or for that matter the Indian — media, the more popular he becomes with the Indian masses. Time Asia’s cover story, negative though it certainly is, will strengthen the resolve of the educated classes to vote for him. Especially given of the contempt poured out on their choice of him his their PM, they will take such denunciations as an additional reason make good on the promise, phir ek baar Modi Sarkar (one more time, Modi in power). In the end, of course, what Time says, or does not, matters little to us. We have moved on. To that extent, Taseer’s cover story may end up, if not as a last minute free fillip to campaign Modi, then little more than a blip, a momentary flicker or irritated swipe on a smartphone screen. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Narendra Modi has integrated the middle class into a powerful political formation

The Supreme Court Wednesday refused to hear Congress MP Sushmita Dev's plea seeking action against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah for alleged poll code violations.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Deepak Gupta, however, gave Dev the liberty to file a fresh plea against various Election Commission (EC) orders rejecting complaints of Model Code of Conduct (MCC) violations by Modi and Shah during campaigning.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The apex court had on Monday asked the MP from Silchar to bring on record the EC's orders giving clean chit to the BJP leaders on several complaints of MCC violations over alleged hate speeches and references to armed forces for "political propaganda".&nbsp;

"Rightly or wrongly", the poll panel has decided the complaints of MCC violations and these orders warrant filing of a fresh petition, the bench said.

Senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi, appearing for the EC, said the persons who had given representations of MCC violations to the poll panel have not come forward to assail them.

Senior advocate A M Singhvi, appearing for Dev, said the poll panel had given unreasoned orders in dismissing the complaints against Modi and Shah.

The EC has given clean chit to Modi for two of his speeches -- one in Latur last month urging first time voters to dedicate their votes in the name of Balakot air strike heroes and soldiers killed in the Pulwama attack, and the other in Wardha on April 1, slamming Congress chief Rahul Gandhi where he had also indicated that Kerala constituency had more voters from the minority community.&nbsp;

Dev had on Tuesday claimed before the apex court that the EC has failed to appreciate that the alleged "hate speeches" by PM Modi and Shah are "corrupt practices" and promote the feeling of enmity on religious grounds.

In an affidavit, Dev has said that the poll panel has passed orders in a "cryptic manner without mentioning any reason whatsoever, in stark violation of the law laid down by this court" while disposing of some complaints.

The Congress party has on May 6 lodged a fresh complaint before the poll panel against Modi for his remarks which "maligned and tarnished the image" of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, Dev said in the affidavit filed in the court.

The apex court had on Monday asked the Congress MP to bring on record EC's orders giving clean chit to Modi and Shah, after she accused the poll panel of inaction on complaints against the two BJP leaders for allegedly violating the MCC with "hate speeches" and using armed forces for "political propaganda".

Alleging discrimination and arbitrariness on part of the EC, Dev had said that the poll panel has initiated action for violation of model code of conduct against Union minister Maneka Gandhi, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, BSP Supremo Mayawati and BJP leader Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur for statements which were similar in "tone, tenor, meaning, purport and intention" to Modi and Shah's statements.

Dev said that the dissent reported and given by one of the Election Commissioners is not provided along with the order.&nbsp;

"This demonstrates a complete lack of transparency and arbitrariness of the Respondent's (EC) decision-making process on complaints against Shri Modi and Shri Amit Shah," the affidavit said.

Dev, in her plea, has alleged inaction by EC in deciding complaints against Modi and Shah and has said that it was "a sign of invidious discrimination" and also "arbitrary, capricious and impermissible" as it was destructive of the integrity of electoral process.

The plea listed out several alleged instances of MCC violations by Modi and Shah in their meetings and referred to as the first violation the speech of Modi at a rally at Wardha, Maharashtra, on April 1 where he had allegedly raised the issue of 'bhagva aatankwad' (saffron terror).

Earlier, the apex court had directed the poll panel to decide by May 6, the nine complaints of the Congress party alleging violations of MCC by the Prime Minister and Shah.

The poll panel had said that by May 8, it was likely to consider all the representations of the Congress party and its leader.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Supreme Court Wednesday refused to hear Congress MP Sushmita Dev's plea seeking action against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah for alleged poll code violations.

The Supreme Court Wednesday refused to hear Congress MP Sushmita Dev's plea seeking action against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah for alleged poll code violations. A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Deepak Gupta, however, gave Dev the liberty to file a fresh plea against various Election Commission (EC) orders rejecting complaints of Model Code of Conduct (MCC) violations by Modi and Shah during campaigning. The apex court had on Monday asked the MP from Silchar to bring on record the EC's orders giving clean chit to the BJP leaders on several complaints of MCC violations over alleged hate speeches and references to armed forces for "political propaganda". "Rightly or wrongly", the poll panel has decided the complaints of MCC violations and these orders warrant filing of a fresh petition, the bench said. Senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi, appearing for the EC, said the persons who had given representations of MCC violations to the poll panel have not come forward to assail them. Senior advocate A M Singhvi, appearing for Dev, said the poll panel had given unreasoned orders in dismissing the complaints against Modi and Shah. The EC has given clean chit to Modi for two of his speeches -- one in Latur last month urging first time voters to dedicate their votes in the name of Balakot air strike heroes and soldiers killed in the Pulwama attack, and the other in Wardha on April 1, slamming Congress chief Rahul Gandhi where he had also indicated that Kerala constituency had more voters from the minority community. Dev had on Tuesday claimed before the apex court that the EC has failed to appreciate that the alleged "hate speeches" by PM Modi and Shah are "corrupt practices" and promote the feeling of enmity on religious grounds. In an affidavit, Dev has said that the poll panel has passed orders in a "cryptic manner without mentioning any reason whatsoever, in stark violation of the law laid down by this court" while disposing of some complaints. The Congress party has on May 6 lodged a fresh complaint before the poll panel against Modi for his remarks which "maligned and tarnished the image" of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, Dev said in the affidavit filed in the court. The apex court had on Monday asked the Congress MP to bring on record EC's orders giving clean chit to Modi and Shah, after she accused the poll panel of inaction on complaints against the two BJP leaders for allegedly violating the MCC with "hate speeches" and using armed forces for "political propaganda". Alleging discrimination and arbitrariness on part of the EC, Dev had said that the poll panel has initiated action for violation of model code of conduct against Union minister Maneka Gandhi, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, BSP Supremo Mayawati and BJP leader Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur for statements which were similar in "tone, tenor, meaning, purport and intention" to Modi and Shah's statements. Dev said that the dissent reported and given by one of the Election Commissioners is not provided along with the order. "This demonstrates a complete lack of transparency and arbitrariness of the Respondent's (EC) decision-making process on complaints against Shri Modi and Shri Amit Shah," the affidavit said. Dev, in her plea, has alleged inaction by EC in deciding complaints against Modi and Shah and has said that it was "a sign of invidious discrimination" and also "arbitrary, capricious and impermissible" as it was destructive of the integrity of electoral process. The plea listed out several alleged instances of MCC violations by Modi and Shah in their meetings and referred to as the first violation the speech of Modi at a rally at Wardha, Maharashtra, on April 1 where he had allegedly raised the issue of 'bhagva aatankwad' (saffron terror). Earlier, the apex court had directed the poll panel to decide by May 6, the nine complaints of the Congress party alleging violations of MCC by the Prime Minister and Shah. The poll panel had said that by May 8, it was likely to consider all the representations of the Congress party and its leader.

Supreme Court refuses to hear Congress MP's plea seeking action against Modi, Shah for poll code violations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said if the NDA government comes back to power, he will put the `shahenshah` who looted farmers behind bars within the next five years.

"Whenever there was Congress government in Centre and Haryana, they took away the land of farmers at low rates. With your blessings, this Chowkidar has taken those who looted farmers to the court. They are going around seeking bail. They are going to ED offices. They used to think that they are `shahenshahs` (emperor) and nobody can touch them. Now they are nervous. I have already taken them to the door of the jail, give me your blessings and I`ll put them in jail within next five years," Modi said in an apparent reference to UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi`s son-in-law Robert Vadra, who is currently facing trial in a land deal case.

Modi, while addressing the gathering here, also said those who have looted the country "will have to pay back."

The Prime Minister went on to criticise the Congress over the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

"In 1984, in different parts of the country including Delhi, Punjab and Haryana thousands of our Sikh brothers and sisters were killed at the behest of the Congress family," he said.&nbsp;

"For 34 years, a dozen of commissions were made, but justice was not given to the Sikh community. Your `Chowkidar` had promised to punish those involved in the 1984 riots. I am happy that the process to punish them has begun."

Modi went on to say, "This shameless Congress is still providing benefits to these tainted people who were involved in committing that sin. They even made one of those involved in the riots as the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. From this, it is clear that Congress is not bothered about your feelings."&nbsp;

He also accused the Congress of not making enough efforts at the time of Independence to ensure that Kartarpur Sahib is a part of India."

Congress` history is about ignoring your emotions. Otherwise, there was no reason why Kartarpur Sahib is in Pakistan. At the time of partition, if they would have made a little effort then Kartarpur Sahib would have been in India... But our government is making efforts to ensure that people who go to seek blessing from Kartarpur Sahib don`t face any problem. For this, the Kartarpur Sahib corridor is being made," he added.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said if the NDA government comes back to power, he will put the `shahenshah` who looted farmers behind bars within the next five years.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said if the NDA government comes back to power, he will put the `shahenshah` who looted farmers behind bars within the next five years. "Whenever there was Congress government in Centre and Haryana, they took away the land of farmers at low rates. With your blessings, this Chowkidar has taken those who looted farmers to the court. They are going around seeking bail. They are going to ED offices. They used to think that they are `shahenshahs` (emperor) and nobody can touch them. Now they are nervous. I have already taken them to the door of the jail, give me your blessings and I`ll put them in jail within next five years," Modi said in an apparent reference to UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi`s son-in-law Robert Vadra, who is currently facing trial in a land deal case. Modi, while addressing the gathering here, also said those who have looted the country "will have to pay back." The Prime Minister went on to criticise the Congress over the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. "In 1984, in different parts of the country including Delhi, Punjab and Haryana thousands of our Sikh brothers and sisters were killed at the behest of the Congress family," he said. "For 34 years, a dozen of commissions were made, but justice was not given to the Sikh community. Your `Chowkidar` had promised to punish those involved in the 1984 riots. I am happy that the process to punish them has begun." Modi went on to say, "This shameless Congress is still providing benefits to these tainted people who were involved in committing that sin. They even made one of those involved in the riots as the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. From this, it is clear that Congress is not bothered about your feelings." He also accused the Congress of not making enough efforts at the time of Independence to ensure that Kartarpur Sahib is a part of India." Congress` history is about ignoring your emotions. Otherwise, there was no reason why Kartarpur Sahib is in Pakistan. At the time of partition, if they would have made a little effort then Kartarpur Sahib would have been in India... But our government is making efforts to ensure that people who go to seek blessing from Kartarpur Sahib don`t face any problem. For this, the Kartarpur Sahib corridor is being made," he added.

Will put 'shahenshah' who looted farmers behind bars within next 5 years: PM Modi

The Election Commission has given a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ec-gives-clean-chit-to-pm-narendra-modi-in-two-more-cases-of-alleged-mcc-violation-216624">clean chit to Prime Minister Narendra Modi </a>over his Pulwama remark in Chitradurga, Karnataka, on April 9, where he reportedly asked voters to vote for the heroes of the Balakot air strike, sources said.

The Prime Minister has also has been given a clean chit by the electoral body for his "roadshow" in Ahmedabad held on April 23, sources added.

On April 23, Lok Sabha elections were held in Gujarat. Prime Minister Modi took a ride in an open SUV in Ahmedabad as he made his way to cast his vote in the third phase of the elections.

The seven-phase Lok Sabha elections started on April 11 and will go on till May 19.

The result will be announced on May 23.&nbsp;

The Election Commission has given a clean chit to Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his Pulwama remark in Chitradurga, Karnataka, on April 9, where he reportedly asked voters to vote for the heroes of the Balakot air strike, sources said.

The Election Commission has given a clean chit to Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his Pulwama remark in Chitradurga, Karnataka, on April 9, where he reportedly asked voters to vote for the heroes of the Balakot air strike, sources said. The Prime Minister has also has been given a clean chit by the electoral body for his "roadshow" in Ahmedabad held on April 23, sources added. On April 23, Lok Sabha elections were held in Gujarat. Prime Minister Modi took a ride in an open SUV in Ahmedabad as he made his way to cast his vote in the third phase of the elections. The seven-phase Lok Sabha elections started on April 11 and will go on till May 19. The result will be announced on May 23.

Election Commission gives clean chit to PM Modi over Pulwama remark, 'roadshow' in Ahmedabad: Sources

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday tore into the Congress for promising in its manifesto the withdrawal of special powers given to armed forces involved in security operations in Jammu and Kashmir and doing away with the sedition law.

Addressing an election meeting in this remote parliamentary constituency situated on the Indo-Nepal border, Modi said he was appalled to see the Congress speaking the same language as Pakistan despite being the party which has been in power for long and urged the people to give a befitting reply to the opposition parties in the elections.

First, the Mahamilavatis (the grand alliance of opposition parties) began with abusing Modi. When they saw it was not paying electoral dividends, they trained their guns at the EVMs. After four phases of polls, they have become frustrated and started attacking the Election Commission. They are behaving like a batsman who blames the umpire after being clean bowled, like a student who comes up with silly excuses after flunking examinations, the prime minister said.

In an indirect attack on dynastic politics, Modi said parties like Congress and its ally in Bihar, the RJD were in tatters because these were led by people who owed their leadership to inheritance without a vision.

They do not see themselves as sevaks (servants) of the people but modern maharajas of democracy, Modi alleged.

He also dismissed the Congress promises of helping the poor through measures like the NYAY scheme and waiver of farmers' loans.

They (Congress) fooled the people in 2009 with a similar promise. Only a fraction of loans given to farmers was waived and many of the beneficiaries turned out to be not engaged in farming, as per the CAG report, he alleged.

Beware of their promise of transferring cash into your accounts. These are the people who ruled the country for so many decades and could not help the poor or even have their accounts opened in banks, Modi said indirectly referring to his governments 'Jan Dhan' scheme.

Their electoral promises are nothing but yet another ploy to siphon off money from the exchequer. But let them realize I will not allow a panja (hand an allusion to the Congress poll symbol) on public funds, he said evoking applause from the crowds.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday tore into the Congress for promising in its manifesto the withdrawal of special powers given to armed forces involved in security operations in Jammu and Kashmir and doing away with the sedition law.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday tore into the Congress for promising in its manifesto the withdrawal of special powers given to armed forces involved in security operations in Jammu and Kashmir and doing away with the sedition law. Addressing an election meeting in this remote parliamentary constituency situated on the Indo-Nepal border, Modi said he was appalled to see the Congress speaking the same language as Pakistan despite being the party which has been in power for long and urged the people to give a befitting reply to the opposition parties in the elections. First, the Mahamilavatis (the grand alliance of opposition parties) began with abusing Modi. When they saw it was not paying electoral dividends, they trained their guns at the EVMs. After four phases of polls, they have become frustrated and started attacking the Election Commission. They are behaving like a batsman who blames the umpire after being clean bowled, like a student who comes up with silly excuses after flunking examinations, the prime minister said. In an indirect attack on dynastic politics, Modi said parties like Congress and its ally in Bihar, the RJD were in tatters because these were led by people who owed their leadership to inheritance without a vision. They do not see themselves as sevaks (servants) of the people but modern maharajas of democracy, Modi alleged. He also dismissed the Congress promises of helping the poor through measures like the NYAY scheme and waiver of farmers' loans. They (Congress) fooled the people in 2009 with a similar promise. Only a fraction of loans given to farmers was waived and many of the beneficiaries turned out to be not engaged in farming, as per the CAG report, he alleged. Beware of their promise of transferring cash into your accounts. These are the people who ruled the country for so many decades and could not help the poor or even have their accounts opened in banks, Modi said indirectly referring to his governments 'Jan Dhan' scheme. Their electoral promises are nothing but yet another ploy to siphon off money from the exchequer. But let them realize I will not allow a panja (hand an allusion to the Congress poll symbol) on public funds, he said evoking applause from the crowds.

Appalled to see Congress speaking the language of Pakistan: PM Modi

Taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Friday wondered how the Congress president could damage the image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is riding on the peak of his popularity.

The dynasts have a self-illusionary opinion about themselves and tend to become megalomaniacs, he said adding "Rahul Gandhi is no exception".

Jaitley was referring to Gandhi's statement quoted by a media organisation that "I have dismantled Modi's image... I will damage his image".

In a blog titled 'A Dynast's non-existent revenge against the man who defeated him in 2014? I Dismantled PM's Image', Jaitley said, "But how do you damage the image of a person who is riding perhaps at the peak of his popularity? How do you damage the reputation of a person who is known to be incredibly honest?"

"Can image be destroyed by a person who belongs to a family which has been tainted through generations with charges of corruption? How do you claim to have succeeded in damaging the image of a powerful personality where Prime Minister Modi's acceptability ratings are close to 70 per cent and Rahul is finding it difficult to even breach the 20 per cent mark?" he added.

Accusing Gandhi of concocting falsehood, the minister said the Congress president can only dream of destroying his opponent.

"He does not gauge public opinion. He only talks but does not listen. Such people surround themselves with advisors who have also tactically learnt to only give good news to the dynast.

"Rahul's attitude is at complete variation with the traditional Congress way of doing things. His revenge against Prime Minister Modi may not succeed. It may well turn out to be a revenge against the Congress," Jaitley said.&nbsp;

Taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Friday wondered how the Congress president could damage the image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is riding on the peak of his popularity.

Taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Friday wondered how the Congress president could damage the image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is riding on the peak of his popularity. The dynasts have a self-illusionary opinion about themselves and tend to become megalomaniacs, he said adding "Rahul Gandhi is no exception". Jaitley was referring to Gandhi's statement quoted by a media organisation that "I have dismantled Modi's image... I will damage his image". In a blog titled 'A Dynast's non-existent revenge against the man who defeated him in 2014? I Dismantled PM's Image', Jaitley said, "But how do you damage the image of a person who is riding perhaps at the peak of his popularity? How do you damage the reputation of a person who is known to be incredibly honest?" "Can image be destroyed by a person who belongs to a family which has been tainted through generations with charges of corruption? How do you claim to have succeeded in damaging the image of a powerful personality where Prime Minister Modi's acceptability ratings are close to 70 per cent and Rahul is finding it difficult to even breach the 20 per cent mark?" he added. Accusing Gandhi of concocting falsehood, the minister said the Congress president can only dream of destroying his opponent. "He does not gauge public opinion. He only talks but does not listen. Such people surround themselves with advisors who have also tactically learnt to only give good news to the dynast. "Rahul's attitude is at complete variation with the traditional Congress way of doing things. His revenge against Prime Minister Modi may not succeed. It may well turn out to be a revenge against the Congress," Jaitley said.

Jaitley wonders how Rahul could damage Modi's image

The Election Commission concluded on Friday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not violate the model code or its advisory on armed forces in his speech in Varanasi.

It also found nothing wrong in his comments made in Nanded, Maharashtra where he reportedly dubbed the Congress as a 'sinking Titanic'.

With this, the EC has decided on five complaints against Modi and gave him a clean chit in all matters.

"In a matter related to a complaint concerning alleged violations of advisories of the Commission and Model Code of Conduct, in a speech delivered by Narendra Modi at Nanded, Maharashtra on April 6, a detailed report of the Chief Electoral Officer, Maharashtra was obtained. The matter has been examined in detail ... (the) Commission is of the considered view that in this matter no such violation of the extant advisories/provisions is attracted," the EC said.

In his Nanded speech, Modi had reportedly said that the Congress today is like Titanic ship which is sinking. All those who are in the ship like the Nationalist Congress Party are either sinking or jumping off to escape, he had reportedly said.

Targeting Rahul Gandhi, he had said that the Congress chief has traced a seat using microscope from which he can take on the BJP.

Modi was apparently referring to the Wayanad seat in Kerala from where Rahul is contesting, besides Amethi in Uttar Pradesh.

He had reportedly said that in Wayanad, the country's majority is in minority.

Referring to Modi's Varanasi speech on April 25, where he had gone to file his nomination for Lok Sabha elections, the EC said a detailed report of the Chief Electoral Officer, Uttar Pradesh was obtained.

"The matter has been examined in detail in accordance with the extant advisories, provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and after examination of complete transcript, Commission is of the considered view that in this matter no such violation of the extant advisories/provisions is attracted," it said.

The Congress had also referred to an interview given by the PM to Aaj Tak and said it found nothing wrong.

Addressing a rally in Varanasi, Modi had stressed on national security, saying a new India gives a befitting reply to terrorism.

At the meeting after a massive show of strength in his Lok Sabha constituency, Modi said his government had dealt effectively against terrorism.

In an apparent reference to the Balakot air strike after Pakistan-based militants killed 40 paramilitary men in Pulwama, he said the world now backed India in its fight against terror.

Modi also referred to the recent bomb blasts in Sri Lanka, saying innocent people observing Easter lost their lives.

The Election Commission had on Thursday given a clean chit to Modi, saying he did not violate the model code of conduct during his election speech in Rajasthan's border town of Barmer where he invoked the armed forces and said that India's nuclear button was not kept to be used for Diwali.

Earlier, the EC had found nothing wrong in the prime minister's speech at Wardha on April 1 where he attacked Congress chief Rahul Gandhi for contesting from minority-dominated Wayanad seat. It has also cleared the PM for his appeal to first-time voters by invoking the Balakot air strikes and the Pulwama martyrs in Latur on April 9.&nbsp;

The Election Commission concluded on Friday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not violate the model code or its advisory on armed forces in his speech in Varanasi.

The Election Commission concluded on Friday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not violate the model code or its advisory on armed forces in his speech in Varanasi. It also found nothing wrong in his comments made in Nanded, Maharashtra where he reportedly dubbed the Congress as a 'sinking Titanic'. With this, the EC has decided on five complaints against Modi and gave him a clean chit in all matters. "In a matter related to a complaint concerning alleged violations of advisories of the Commission and Model Code of Conduct, in a speech delivered by Narendra Modi at Nanded, Maharashtra on April 6, a detailed report of the Chief Electoral Officer, Maharashtra was obtained. The matter has been examined in detail ... (the) Commission is of the considered view that in this matter no such violation of the extant advisories/provisions is attracted," the EC said. In his Nanded speech, Modi had reportedly said that the Congress today is like Titanic ship which is sinking. All those who are in the ship like the Nationalist Congress Party are either sinking or jumping off to escape, he had reportedly said. Targeting Rahul Gandhi, he had said that the Congress chief has traced a seat using microscope from which he can take on the BJP. Modi was apparently referring to the Wayanad seat in Kerala from where Rahul is contesting, besides Amethi in Uttar Pradesh. He had reportedly said that in Wayanad, the country's majority is in minority. Referring to Modi's Varanasi speech on April 25, where he had gone to file his nomination for Lok Sabha elections, the EC said a detailed report of the Chief Electoral Officer, Uttar Pradesh was obtained. "The matter has been examined in detail in accordance with the extant advisories, provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and after examination of complete transcript, Commission is of the considered view that in this matter no such violation of the extant advisories/provisions is attracted," it said. The Congress had also referred to an interview given by the PM to Aaj Tak and said it found nothing wrong. Addressing a rally in Varanasi, Modi had stressed on national security, saying a new India gives a befitting reply to terrorism. At the meeting after a massive show of strength in his Lok Sabha constituency, Modi said his government had dealt effectively against terrorism. In an apparent reference to the Balakot air strike after Pakistan-based militants killed 40 paramilitary men in Pulwama, he said the world now backed India in its fight against terror. Modi also referred to the recent bomb blasts in Sri Lanka, saying innocent people observing Easter lost their lives. The Election Commission had on Thursday given a clean chit to Modi, saying he did not violate the model code of conduct during his election speech in Rajasthan's border town of Barmer where he invoked the armed forces and said that India's nuclear button was not kept to be used for Diwali. Earlier, the EC had found nothing wrong in the prime minister's speech at Wardha on April 1 where he attacked Congress chief Rahul Gandhi for contesting from minority-dominated Wayanad seat. It has also cleared the PM for his appeal to first-time voters by invoking the Balakot air strikes and the Pulwama martyrs in Latur on April 9.

Election Commission clean chit to PM Modi in two more speeches

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/terrorist-attacks-had-become-daily-affair-during-congress-pm-modi-in-rajasthan-215640">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Friday mocked the Congress over its claim of having conducted surgical strikes during the UPA regime telling the party that it is not a video game.

A day after the Congress claimed that six surgical strikes were carried out by the Manmohan Singh-led government, he said the Congress, which earlier used to mock the surgical strikes, is now saying 'me too, me too'.

"After losing in the first four phases of the Lok Sabha elections, now Congress is doing a new drama. A senior Congress leader last night said that during their time surgical strikes were done many times. Now Congress is trying everything to prove that it too had carried out surgical strikes. Congress claims that they carried out six surgical strikes," Prime Minister Modi said while addressing a rally in Sikar, Rajasthan.

"What type of strikes were these about which the terrorists did not get to know, Pakistan didn't know and even Indians didn't know. First, they mocked it. When they saw that the people are standing with Modi, then they started protesting. And now they say 'me too me too'," he added.

"I think there are people in the Congress who play video games at any age and maybe they even consider surgical strike as a video game," Modi said.

"Jab kagaz par hi karni ho, jab video game mein hi strike karni ho to 6 ho ya 3 ho, 20 hon ya 25 hon, ye jhoote logon ko kya fark padta hai," he added.

The Prime Minister later took another jibe at the Congress and said "When the results for Lok Sabha elections will come out on May 23, then the Congress will say that we did 600 surgical strikes."

At the rally, Prime Minister Modi also said, "I promise you that the water which is currently flowing to Pakistan will be diverted to the farms in India."&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday mocked the Congress over its claim of having conducted surgical strikes during the UPA regime telling the party that it is not a video game.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday mocked the Congress over its claim of having conducted surgical strikes during the UPA regime telling the party that it is not a video game. A day after the Congress claimed that six surgical strikes were carried out by the Manmohan Singh-led government, he said the Congress, which earlier used to mock the surgical strikes, is now saying 'me too, me too'. "After losing in the first four phases of the Lok Sabha elections, now Congress is doing a new drama. A senior Congress leader last night said that during their time surgical strikes were done many times. Now Congress is trying everything to prove that it too had carried out surgical strikes. Congress claims that they carried out six surgical strikes," Prime Minister Modi said while addressing a rally in Sikar, Rajasthan. "What type of strikes were these about which the terrorists did not get to know, Pakistan didn't know and even Indians didn't know. First, they mocked it. When they saw that the people are standing with Modi, then they started protesting. And now they say 'me too me too'," he added. "I think there are people in the Congress who play video games at any age and maybe they even consider surgical strike as a video game," Modi said. "Jab kagaz par hi karni ho, jab video game mein hi strike karni ho to 6 ho ya 3 ho, 20 hon ya 25 hon, ye jhoote logon ko kya fark padta hai," he added. The Prime Minister later took another jibe at the Congress and said "When the results for Lok Sabha elections will come out on May 23, then the Congress will say that we did 600 surgical strikes." At the rally, Prime Minister Modi also said, "I promise you that the water which is currently flowing to Pakistan will be diverted to the farms in India."

Congress earlier mocked surgical strikes, now saying 'me too, me too': PM Modi

Attacking the Congress ahead of the polls in Rajasthan,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-shares-clip-of-last-poll-meeting-in-jaipur-says-it-is-clear-rajasthan-wants-bjp-215633"> Prime Minister Modi</a> said on Friday that the terrorist attacks had become a daily affair during the Congress regime.

"When there was Congress government at the centre, terrorist attacks had become a daily affair. No city was safe in their tenure. Everyone knows how terrorists attacked Mumbai in 2008. What happened in Mumbai at that time, was neither the first nor the last," PM Modi said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rs-1000-crore-released-in-advance-for-cyclone-affected-states-pm-modi-215630">Cyclone Fani: Rs 1,000 crore released in advance for affected states, says PM Modi</a>

While addressing an election rally in Karauli, Rajasthan, PM Modi further said, "In January 2008, there was an attack on CRPF camp in UP. In May, there was a bomb blast in Jaipur. In July, there were serial blasts in Bengaluru. Next day, bomb blasts in Ahmedabad. In September, there were two terror attacks in Delhi. In October, serial blasts in Guwahati, Agartala, Imphal".

PM Modi also said that the Congress was distraught when he got the award from UAE during elections and when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shiv-sena-slams-congress-for-questioning-timing-of-jem-chief-masood-azhars-listing-as-a-global-terrorist-215627">Azhar was declared international terrorist</a> while polls underway.

Further targetting the Congress PM Modi said that the government at the Centre during the 2009 "had no courage".&nbsp;

"The youth takes a lot of interest in IPL. But there were two occasions when it could not be played in India, it was played in South Africa. This happened in 2009 and 2014. The government at the centre was so scared of terrorists. That government had no courage".

"In 2009 &amp; 2014 they said, there's election. Police is&nbsp;busy so can't have IPL. There are elections now, there was Navratri, Ramnavmi and Hanuman Jayanti too. Ramzan will be here. But IPL is going on", he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Attacking the Congress ahead of the polls in Rajasthan, Prime Minister Modi said on Friday that the terrorist attacks had become a daily affair during the Congress regime.

Attacking the Congress ahead of the polls in Rajasthan, Prime Minister Modi said on Friday that the terrorist attacks had become a daily affair during the Congress regime. "When there was Congress government at the centre, terrorist attacks had become a daily affair. No city was safe in their tenure. Everyone knows how terrorists attacked Mumbai in 2008. What happened in Mumbai at that time, was neither the first nor the last," PM Modi said. Also read: Cyclone Fani: Rs 1,000 crore released in advance for affected states, says PM Modi While addressing an election rally in Karauli, Rajasthan, PM Modi further said, "In January 2008, there was an attack on CRPF camp in UP. In May, there was a bomb blast in Jaipur. In July, there were serial blasts in Bengaluru. Next day, bomb blasts in Ahmedabad. In September, there were two terror attacks in Delhi. In October, serial blasts in Guwahati, Agartala, Imphal". PM Modi also said that the Congress was distraught when he got the award from UAE during elections and when Azhar was declared international terrorist while polls underway. Further targetting the Congress PM Modi said that the government at the Centre during the 2009 "had no courage". "The youth takes a lot of interest in IPL. But there were two occasions when it could not be played in India, it was played in South Africa. This happened in 2009 and 2014. The government at the centre was so scared of terrorists. That government had no courage". "In 2009 & 2014 they said, there's election. Police is busy so can't have IPL. There are elections now, there was Navratri, Ramnavmi and Hanuman Jayanti too. Ramzan will be here. But IPL is going on", he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Terrorist attacks had become daily affair during Congress: PM Modi in Rajasthan

National Aviators Guild (NAG) have requested PM Modi to release one month salary of the employees of the Jet Airways. Watch this video to know more.

WION Wallet: Jet Airways writes to PM Modi

The makers of the biopic 'PM Narendra Modi' on Saturday sought clarifications from the Election Commission on its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/modi-biopic-is-a-hagiography-which-gives-him-cult-status-will-tilt-electoral-balance-election-commission-to-supreme-court-213385">decision to stay&nbsp;the release of the movie</a>.&nbsp;

In a letter to the EC, the makers of the movie stated, "We seek clarification in this regard from your office as we intend to promote film in areas which are no more affected by MCC after the end of polling on 29.4.19".

The Election Commission had earlier this week stated that 'PM Narendra Modi' - a biopic made on the Indian Prime Minister- should be released after May 19 which is when the general elections get over.&nbsp;

The biopic on Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a "hagiography", which treats the subject with undue reverence, and its public screening during poll campaign will "tilt the electoral balance", the Election Commission (EC) told the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/modi-biopic-supreme-court-refuses-to-intervene-in-elections-commission-report-on-stay-on-release-213612">Supreme Court</a> while opposing the release of the movie starring Vivek Oberoi.&nbsp;

In its 20-page report submitted to the apex court bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi on the film titled 'PM Narendra Modi', the poll panel said that the biopic "produces a political environment where an individual acquired cult status" and its public screening during the period when model code of conduct is in operation would favour a particular political party.

The EC said "there are several scenes depicting a major opposition party as corrupt and showing them in poor light. Their leaders have been depicted in such a manner that their identification is clear and obvious to the viewers."

It said that the biopic was more than a biography and was a "hagiography" (which treats the subject as saints and gives undue reverence) and the construct of the movie was "unabashedly uni-dimensional", which puts an individual on a higher pedestal through use of specific symbols, slogans and scenes.

(With inputs from agencies)

The makers of the biopic 'PM Narendra Modi' on Saturday sought clarifications from the Election Commission on its decision to stay the release of the movie. In a letter to the EC, the makers of the movie stated, "We seek clarification in this regard from your office as we intend to promote film in areas which are no more affected by MCC after the end of polling on 29.

The makers of the biopic 'PM Narendra Modi' on Saturday sought clarifications from the Election Commission on its decision to stay the release of the movie. In a letter to the EC, the makers of the movie stated, "We seek clarification in this regard from your office as we intend to promote film in areas which are no more affected by MCC after the end of polling on 29.4.19". The Election Commission had earlier this week stated that 'PM Narendra Modi' - a biopic made on the Indian Prime Minister- should be released after May 19 which is when the general elections get over. The biopic on Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a "hagiography", which treats the subject with undue reverence, and its public screening during poll campaign will "tilt the electoral balance", the Election Commission (EC) told the Supreme Court while opposing the release of the movie starring Vivek Oberoi. In its 20-page report submitted to the apex court bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi on the film titled 'PM Narendra Modi', the poll panel said that the biopic "produces a political environment where an individual acquired cult status" and its public screening during the period when model code of conduct is in operation would favour a particular political party. The EC said "there are several scenes depicting a major opposition party as corrupt and showing them in poor light. Their leaders have been depicted in such a manner that their identification is clear and obvious to the viewers." It said that the biopic was more than a biography and was a "hagiography" (which treats the subject as saints and gives undue reverence) and the construct of the movie was "unabashedly uni-dimensional", which puts an individual on a higher pedestal through use of specific symbols, slogans and scenes. (With inputs from agencies)

Makers of Modi biopic seek Election Commission's clarification on stay of film's release

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