Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday said the BJP is committed to passing the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill once the NDA returns to power after the ongoing Lok Sabha polls.

The bill will be amended after proper consultation with all sections of the society and ensuring safety of the Assamese community, Modi told a poll rally in Silchar, Assam.

Protection to Assamese language, culture and identity will be ensured while considering the Bill again, he assured.

The Bill had been passed by the Lok Sabha by the Modi government on January 8 but was not introduced in the Rajya Sabha. The Bill is now set to lapse on June 3.

Slamming the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-charges-congress-with-tughlaq-road-chunav-ghotala-209560">Congress</a>, he said it did not think about the minorities in Pakistan while dividing the country during Independence.

"The fundamentalists tortured our brothers and sisters in Pakistan. Is Congress not a culprit for this? People going to mandirs and gurudwaras in Bangladesh and Pakistan had to come to India. Congress sins made them foreigners in their own land ?" he added.

"Our daughters are being tortured in Pakistan even nowadays," he alleged.

On the triple talaq bill, Modi said his government will "strongly try" to pass the legislation after it comes to power at the Centre.

"Even if the Congress, AIUDF and mahamialvat (other opposition parties) try, they will be able to do nothing (to stop the triple talaq bill). Our daughters will get justice," he added.

Referring to the ongoing first phase of Lok Sabha polls in the country, Modi said "As per information I have received so far a huge wave is seen for us in the polling being held today.

"People have decided and it will be difficult for the opposition to survive ... In Assam, all five seats (where polling is being held in the first phase) will be won by BJP and the NDA."&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday said the BJP is committed to passing the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill once the NDA returns to power after the ongoing Lok Sabha polls.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday said the BJP is committed to passing the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill once the NDA returns to power after the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. The bill will be amended after proper consultation with all sections of the society and ensuring safety of the Assamese community, Modi told a poll rally in Silchar, Assam. Protection to Assamese language, culture and identity will be ensured while considering the Bill again, he assured. The Bill had been passed by the Lok Sabha by the Modi government on January 8 but was not introduced in the Rajya Sabha. The Bill is now set to lapse on June 3. Slamming the Congress, he said it did not think about the minorities in Pakistan while dividing the country during Independence. "The fundamentalists tortured our brothers and sisters in Pakistan. Is Congress not a culprit for this? People going to mandirs and gurudwaras in Bangladesh and Pakistan had to come to India. Congress sins made them foreigners in their own land ?" he added. "Our daughters are being tortured in Pakistan even nowadays," he alleged. On the triple talaq bill, Modi said his government will "strongly try" to pass the legislation after it comes to power at the Centre. "Even if the Congress, AIUDF and mahamialvat (other opposition parties) try, they will be able to do nothing (to stop the triple talaq bill). Our daughters will get justice," he added. Referring to the ongoing first phase of Lok Sabha polls in the country, Modi said "As per information I have received so far a huge wave is seen for us in the polling being held today. "People have decided and it will be difficult for the opposition to survive ... In Assam, all five seats (where polling is being held in the first phase) will be won by BJP and the NDA."

BJP committed to passing Triple Talaq, Citizenship (Amendment) Bill: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday slammed the Congress for indulging in corruption and said a new scam "Tughlaq Road Chunav Ghotala" by it has come to the fore.

In the new scam crores of rupees meant for nutrition of poor children and expectant mothers have been seized even as old cases of corruption against it are still on, he told a rally in Assam.

The "naamdari parivar" (famed family) is engaged in corruption and has made it a way a life for which its members are now on bail, but they call the "chowkidar a chor", he said.

"There is a Tughlaq Road in Delhi and there is a bungalow there where a big leader lives. During the last few days, a game involving several crores of rupees is being played. Sack loads of currency notes are being recovered from those people who are connected with this bungalow," he said.

"This is the Tughlaq Road Chunav Ghotala and Congress indulges in corruption to win elections ... If they do not loot, how will they fight elections?

"It is a sin to vote for such people," Modi said adding Congress has compromised the security of the nation by demanding proof of attack on terrorist camps in Pakistan.

Criticising the Congress for indulging in vote bank politics, Modi said had it wanted they could have solved the problems in Assam and Jammu and Kashmir after the 1971 Indo-Pak war. "But they kept the issues burning deliberately for their vested interests."

Congress allowed infiltration to ensure that their vote bank remained intact.

"But this chowkidar will ensure that infiltration is stopped to protect the interests of the people of Assam and North East ... We will ensure Indo-Bangla border fencing is completed soon, that there are no names of foreigners in the National Register of Citizens and no genuine Indians are left out," he added.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday slammed the Congress for indulging in corruption and said a new scam "Tughlaq Road Chunav Ghotala" by it has come to the fore.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday slammed the Congress for indulging in corruption and said a new scam "Tughlaq Road Chunav Ghotala" by it has come to the fore. In the new scam crores of rupees meant for nutrition of poor children and expectant mothers have been seized even as old cases of corruption against it are still on, he told a rally in Assam. The "naamdari parivar" (famed family) is engaged in corruption and has made it a way a life for which its members are now on bail, but they call the "chowkidar a chor", he said. "There is a Tughlaq Road in Delhi and there is a bungalow there where a big leader lives. During the last few days, a game involving several crores of rupees is being played. Sack loads of currency notes are being recovered from those people who are connected with this bungalow," he said. "This is the Tughlaq Road Chunav Ghotala and Congress indulges in corruption to win elections ... If they do not loot, how will they fight elections? "It is a sin to vote for such people," Modi said adding Congress has compromised the security of the nation by demanding proof of attack on terrorist camps in Pakistan. Criticising the Congress for indulging in vote bank politics, Modi said had it wanted they could have solved the problems in Assam and Jammu and Kashmir after the 1971 Indo-Pak war. "But they kept the issues burning deliberately for their vested interests." Congress allowed infiltration to ensure that their vote bank remained intact. "But this chowkidar will ensure that infiltration is stopped to protect the interests of the people of Assam and North East ... We will ensure Indo-Bangla border fencing is completed soon, that there are no names of foreigners in the National Register of Citizens and no genuine Indians are left out," he added.

PM Modi charges Congress with 'Tughlaq Road Chunav Ghotala'

Pakistan's Premier Imran Khan has said he believes there may be a better chance of peace talks with India and settle the Kashmir issue if Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party BJP wins the general elections.

India Election Watch: Better chances for peace if Narendra Modi wins, says Imran Khan

India Election Watch: Better chance for peace if Narendra Modi wins, says Imran Khan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi did not contest Lok Sabha polls from Karnataka fearing revenge by coalition partner JDS' supremo H D Deve Gowda for being 'backstabbed' by Sonia Gandhi when he was removed as prime minister.

Addressing a rally in Mysore, he said the only vision and agenda of the Congress was "Modi Hatao" (remove Modi), which was also shared by the partners of "Mahamilavat", a derisive reference to the "grand alliance" of opposition parties.

Modi said Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy has become a "punching bag" for the Congress.

He said though the Congress was sharing power with JDS in the state, Gandhi preferred Kerala for his second seat besides the traditional stronghold of Amethi in Uttar Pradesh rather than Karnataka.

Modi claimed this was because the Congress feared that Gowda might take revenge over former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi "backstabbing" him when he was removed as prime minister heading the United Front government in 1996.

He also said one could imagine the plight of the Congress today when its president's existing seat itself was in danger, referring to Rahul Gandhi contesting from the second seat of Wayanad in Kerala.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi did not contest Lok Sabha polls from Karnataka fearing revenge by coalition partner JDS' supremo H D Deve Gowda for being 'backstabbed' by Sonia Gandhi when he was removed as prime minister.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi did not contest Lok Sabha polls from Karnataka fearing revenge by coalition partner JDS' supremo H D Deve Gowda for being 'backstabbed' by Sonia Gandhi when he was removed as prime minister. Addressing a rally in Mysore, he said the only vision and agenda of the Congress was "Modi Hatao" (remove Modi), which was also shared by the partners of "Mahamilavat", a derisive reference to the "grand alliance" of opposition parties. Modi said Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy has become a "punching bag" for the Congress. He said though the Congress was sharing power with JDS in the state, Gandhi preferred Kerala for his second seat besides the traditional stronghold of Amethi in Uttar Pradesh rather than Karnataka. Modi claimed this was because the Congress feared that Gowda might take revenge over former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi "backstabbing" him when he was removed as prime minister heading the United Front government in 1996. He also said one could imagine the plight of the Congress today when its president's existing seat itself was in danger, referring to Rahul Gandhi contesting from the second seat of Wayanad in Kerala.

Rahul didn't contest from Karnataka fearing 'revenge' from Gowda: PM Modi

Invoking the Balakot air strikes inside Pakistan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday asked first-time voters for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls to dedicate their vote to those who carried out the daring operation to target a terror camp.

Modi also urged the voters to dedicate their first vote to the slain CRPF personnel in the Pulwama terror attack and to the cause of providing pucca houses to the poor, water in farms of farmers and 'healthcare for all'. The first phase of the multi-phase parliamentary elections begins Thursday.

The remarks by Modi on the IAF operation on February 26 while addressing rallies in Maharashtra and Karnataka prompted the CPI-M to write a letter to the Election Commission(EC) alleging violation of model code.

"With deep anguish we are drawing your attention to the latest violation of Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He is also violating the specific direction of the Election Commission to refrain from invoking the armed forces for seeking votes," CPI-M politburo member Nilotpal Basu said.

Congress spokesman Kapil Sibal told reporters in Delhi there should be no politics in the name of our martyrs, but it is happening and the 'sad part' is that the Election Commission is also not doing anything about it.

The EC issued an advisory on March 19 asking parties and their candidates to desist from indulging in any political propaganda involving activities of defence forces during their election campaign.

"Can your first vote be dedicated to those who carried out the air strike," Modi said, appealing to the first-time voters at his rally in Ausa in Latur district in Maharashtra.

"I want to tell the first-time voters: can your first vote be dedicated to the 'veer jawans' (valiant soldiers) who carried out the air strike in Pakistan).

"Can your first vote be dedicated to the 'veer shaheed' (brave martyrs) of Pulwama (terror attack)," Modi said. As many as 40 CRPF personnel were killed in an attack on their convoy in Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir by a Jaish suicide bomber on February 14.

Modi said the first-time voters should remember that their first vote is something which they will remember for the rest of their lives. "You will always remember to whom did you vote and in which election."

"Can your first vote be dedicated to (the cause of) providing pucca houses to the poor?. Should not your first vote go for providing water in farms of farmers?" he asked.

"Should not you vote for 'healthcare for all' and the Ayushman Bharat scheme," Modi said.

Modi spoke on similar lines at his rally in Chitradurga in Karnataka while greeting first time voters across the country and asked them to vote after thinking to bring a strong government in the country.

He said in this Lok Sabha election people have to choose not only an MP or a prime minister, but a strong government for a strong India. "Only a strong government can take firm decisions for the benefit of the country."

Citing how a strong government functions, Modi again referred to the Balakot air strike in response to the Pulwama carnage.

"There was a time five years ago, when Pakistan's terrorists used to attack us and Pakistan used to threaten us. Our brave soldiers used to seek permission for action, but the government then sat in fear."

"This Chowkidar (watchman) has changed the situation. Now if there is fear, it is on the other side of the border. People sitting in power there are getting different types of nightmares...Terrorists are frightened after Balakot attack," he said.

Devoting a significant part of his speech to national security, he asked the crowd, "when we attacked Pakistan's terrorists did you like it or not? Are you happy? Did I do right?" to which it roared in approval.

"When we attacked terrorists it pained Pakistan, but tears could be seen among those in Congress and JD(S)," Modi said. The JD(S) and Congress are ruling coalition partners in Karnataka.

He said the whole world stood with India, but "our Mahamilavati dal here" (Congress-JDS), was condemning Modi instead of Pakistan.

"The chief minister (H D Kumarawamy) here went a step ahead and said the bravery of Indian soldiers should not be spoken, because it will affect their vote bank...."I want to ask the chief minister whether his vote bank is in India or in Pakistan? The chief minister should clarify on this," Modi said.

Under the BJP's watch it is the policy of 'New India' that it will kill terrorists by barging into their dens, he said.

National Conference leader Omar Abdullah hoped that first-time voters ask the prime minister why the Balakot air strike became necessary.

"I hope the first-time voters ask PM Modi why Balakot became necessary in the first place. Why did the Pulwama attack succeed? On whose watch have attacks in Uri, Pathankot, Sunjwan (Jammu), Nagrota &amp; Pulwama happened? Don't reward Balakot, punish Pulwama! (sic)" Abdullah tweeted.

PDP president Mehbooba Mufti also took a sarcastic swipe at the prime minister.

"Repeat after me. MCC is Modi Code of Conduct," she tweeted.

Stepping up his attack on the Congress, Modi said had its leaders acted wisely, Pakistan would not have been created.

Pakistan would not have been born in 1947 had Congress leaders acted wisely in the pre-Independence era, Modi said. The Congress party's manifesto speaks the same language as that of Pakistan, he added.

Modi also attacked the Congress over the recent income tax raids at several locations, including in Delhi and Madhya Pradesh, against close aides of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath and others on charges of tax evasion and hawala transactions.

He alleged that corruption was the only activity which the Congress does "with honesty" after coming to power.

"You must have seen how boxes full of currency notes are being recovered from the houses of Congress courtiers. Buying votes shows their political culture. They are saying for the last six months that the watchman is a thief but from where have the notes come out and who is the real thief?" Modi said.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi has been attacking the prime minister using the 'chowkidar chor hai' phrase, alleging corruption in the Rafale deal. 
&nbsp;

Invoking the Balakot air strikes inside Pakistan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday asked first-time voters for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls to dedicate their vote to those who carried out the daring operation to target a terror camp.

Invoking the Balakot air strikes inside Pakistan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday asked first-time voters for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls to dedicate their vote to those who carried out the daring operation to target a terror camp. Modi also urged the voters to dedicate their first vote to the slain CRPF personnel in the Pulwama terror attack and to the cause of providing pucca houses to the poor, water in farms of farmers and 'healthcare for all'. The first phase of the multi-phase parliamentary elections begins Thursday. The remarks by Modi on the IAF operation on February 26 while addressing rallies in Maharashtra and Karnataka prompted the CPI-M to write a letter to the Election Commission(EC) alleging violation of model code. "With deep anguish we are drawing your attention to the latest violation of Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He is also violating the specific direction of the Election Commission to refrain from invoking the armed forces for seeking votes," CPI-M politburo member Nilotpal Basu said. Congress spokesman Kapil Sibal told reporters in Delhi there should be no politics in the name of our martyrs, but it is happening and the 'sad part' is that the Election Commission is also not doing anything about it. The EC issued an advisory on March 19 asking parties and their candidates to desist from indulging in any political propaganda involving activities of defence forces during their election campaign. "Can your first vote be dedicated to those who carried out the air strike," Modi said, appealing to the first-time voters at his rally in Ausa in Latur district in Maharashtra. "I want to tell the first-time voters: can your first vote be dedicated to the 'veer jawans' (valiant soldiers) who carried out the air strike in Pakistan). "Can your first vote be dedicated to the 'veer shaheed' (brave martyrs) of Pulwama (terror attack)," Modi said. As many as 40 CRPF personnel were killed in an attack on their convoy in Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir by a Jaish suicide bomber on February 14. Modi said the first-time voters should remember that their first vote is something which they will remember for the rest of their lives. "You will always remember to whom did you vote and in which election." "Can your first vote be dedicated to (the cause of) providing pucca houses to the poor?. Should not your first vote go for providing water in farms of farmers?" he asked. "Should not you vote for 'healthcare for all' and the Ayushman Bharat scheme," Modi said. Modi spoke on similar lines at his rally in Chitradurga in Karnataka while greeting first time voters across the country and asked them to vote after thinking to bring a strong government in the country. He said in this Lok Sabha election people have to choose not only an MP or a prime minister, but a strong government for a strong India. "Only a strong government can take firm decisions for the benefit of the country." Citing how a strong government functions, Modi again referred to the Balakot air strike in response to the Pulwama carnage. "There was a time five years ago, when Pakistan's terrorists used to attack us and Pakistan used to threaten us. Our brave soldiers used to seek permission for action, but the government then sat in fear." "This Chowkidar (watchman) has changed the situation. Now if there is fear, it is on the other side of the border. People sitting in power there are getting different types of nightmares...Terrorists are frightened after Balakot attack," he said. Devoting a significant part of his speech to national security, he asked the crowd, "when we attacked Pakistan's terrorists did you like it or not? Are you happy? Did I do right?" to which it roared in approval. "When we attacked terrorists it pained Pakistan, but tears could be seen among those in Congress and JD(S)," Modi said. The JD(S) and Congress are ruling coalition partners in Karnataka. He said the whole world stood with India, but "our Mahamilavati dal here" (Congress-JDS), was condemning Modi instead of Pakistan. "The chief minister (H D Kumarawamy) here went a step ahead and said the bravery of Indian soldiers should not be spoken, because it will affect their vote bank...."I want to ask the chief minister whether his vote bank is in India or in Pakistan? The chief minister should clarify on this," Modi said. Under the BJP's watch it is the policy of 'New India' that it will kill terrorists by barging into their dens, he said. National Conference leader Omar Abdullah hoped that first-time voters ask the prime minister why the Balakot air strike became necessary. "I hope the first-time voters ask PM Modi why Balakot became necessary in the first place. Why did the Pulwama attack succeed? On whose watch have attacks in Uri, Pathankot, Sunjwan (Jammu), Nagrota & Pulwama happened? Don't reward Balakot, punish Pulwama! (sic)" Abdullah tweeted. PDP president Mehbooba Mufti also took a sarcastic swipe at the prime minister. "Repeat after me. MCC is Modi Code of Conduct," she tweeted. Stepping up his attack on the Congress, Modi said had its leaders acted wisely, Pakistan would not have been created. Pakistan would not have been born in 1947 had Congress leaders acted wisely in the pre-Independence era, Modi said. The Congress party's manifesto speaks the same language as that of Pakistan, he added. Modi also attacked the Congress over the recent income tax raids at several locations, including in Delhi and Madhya Pradesh, against close aides of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath and others on charges of tax evasion and hawala transactions. He alleged that corruption was the only activity which the Congress does "with honesty" after coming to power. "You must have seen how boxes full of currency notes are being recovered from the houses of Congress courtiers. Buying votes shows their political culture. They are saying for the last six months that the watchman is a thief but from where have the notes come out and who is the real thief?" Modi said. Congress president Rahul Gandhi has been attacking the prime minister using the 'chowkidar chor hai' phrase, alleging corruption in the Rafale deal.

PM Modi to first-time voters: Dedicate vote for Balakot 'air strike' men; CPI-M alleges model code violation

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Tuesday launched a frontal attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying his party has come up with "NYAY" (justice), a reference to the proposed minimum income guarantee scheme, to undo the "anyay" (injustice) done by the Centre.

He said the proposed scheme, known by the acronym "NYAY", was a realistic measure that could be implemented without harming the economy or increasing the tax burden on the common people "unlike the boastful promise made by Modi of remitting Rs 15 lakh into the bank accounts of all poor people in the country".

He accused Modi of spreading the "canard" that NYAY will be an expensive scheme to implement which the Congress would not find enough funds unless more taxes are imposed on the salaried class.

"I promise that the scheme would be implemented no sooner than the party comes to power and we would get the money out of the pockets of people like Anil Ambani, Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi the role of whose chowkidar (watchman) Modi has assumed," Gandhi told an election rally in Gaya.

"The sum of Rs 72,000 per year promised under NYAY comes to a total of Rs 3.60 lakh over a period of five years. Now you have to make a choice between the lie of Rs 15 lakh and the truth of Rs 3.60 lakh," he said.

The Congress president was speaking in the presence of actor-politician Shatrughan Sinha, who recently joined the party after quitting the BJP, and local "Mahagathbandhan" candidate and former Bihar chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, among others.

Attacking Modi over his chowkidar claim, Gandhi said the poor cannot hire a watchman, a luxury only the wealthy can afford.

He alleged that Modi was a watchmen only to big businessmen like Nirav Modi, Ambani and Choksi.

Gandhi's remarks were greeted with chants of "chowkidar chor hai" (the watchman is the thief) by the audience.

"This chant of 'chowkidar chor hai' is reverberating across the country and has replaced the 'ache din aane wale hain' (good days are to come) slogan that Modi gave five years ago. Rattled by this changing political mood, he has come up with yet another rhetoric main bhi chowkidar (Im too a watchman).

"Modi should know his cohorts may be with him in this drama but not the farmers, the workers and the unemployed youth," the Congress president said at the rally that concluded just before the campaign for the first phase of polls on April 11 came to a close.

Gandhi also scoffed at Modi for his aggressive nationalistic stance during the poll campaign and targeted him over the Rafale deal.

The Congress leader said as part of the understanding reached with France under Manmohan Singh the fighter jets were to be manufactured by the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.

"Modi said, no, I am a chowkidar of Anil Ambani and hence the contract would go to his company despite it not having the knowhow. So much for his patriotism," Gandhi said.

He claimed farmers who have taken loans live in fear that they may be jailed for defaulting on repayment. This is despite the fact that big-time defaulters have been able to flee the country with outstanding loans of thousands of crores of rupees, he said.

We will ensure that no farmer is made to suffer on account of inability to repay loans, Gandhi asserted.

"We waived the loans of farmers in states like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan. Measures like these and promises like NYAY are just the beginning," Gandhi added.

He also reaffirmed his commitment to filling 22 lakh posts lying vacant in government departments.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Tuesday launched a frontal attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying his party has come up with "NYAY" (justice), a reference to the proposed minimum income guarantee scheme, to undo the "anyay" (injustice) done by the Centre.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Tuesday launched a frontal attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying his party has come up with "NYAY" (justice), a reference to the proposed minimum income guarantee scheme, to undo the "anyay" (injustice) done by the Centre. He said the proposed scheme, known by the acronym "NYAY", was a realistic measure that could be implemented without harming the economy or increasing the tax burden on the common people "unlike the boastful promise made by Modi of remitting Rs 15 lakh into the bank accounts of all poor people in the country". He accused Modi of spreading the "canard" that NYAY will be an expensive scheme to implement which the Congress would not find enough funds unless more taxes are imposed on the salaried class. "I promise that the scheme would be implemented no sooner than the party comes to power and we would get the money out of the pockets of people like Anil Ambani, Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi the role of whose chowkidar (watchman) Modi has assumed," Gandhi told an election rally in Gaya. "The sum of Rs 72,000 per year promised under NYAY comes to a total of Rs 3.60 lakh over a period of five years. Now you have to make a choice between the lie of Rs 15 lakh and the truth of Rs 3.60 lakh," he said. The Congress president was speaking in the presence of actor-politician Shatrughan Sinha, who recently joined the party after quitting the BJP, and local "Mahagathbandhan" candidate and former Bihar chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, among others. Attacking Modi over his chowkidar claim, Gandhi said the poor cannot hire a watchman, a luxury only the wealthy can afford. He alleged that Modi was a watchmen only to big businessmen like Nirav Modi, Ambani and Choksi. Gandhi's remarks were greeted with chants of "chowkidar chor hai" (the watchman is the thief) by the audience. "This chant of 'chowkidar chor hai' is reverberating across the country and has replaced the 'ache din aane wale hain' (good days are to come) slogan that Modi gave five years ago. Rattled by this changing political mood, he has come up with yet another rhetoric main bhi chowkidar (Im too a watchman). "Modi should know his cohorts may be with him in this drama but not the farmers, the workers and the unemployed youth," the Congress president said at the rally that concluded just before the campaign for the first phase of polls on April 11 came to a close. Gandhi also scoffed at Modi for his aggressive nationalistic stance during the poll campaign and targeted him over the Rafale deal. The Congress leader said as part of the understanding reached with France under Manmohan Singh the fighter jets were to be manufactured by the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. "Modi said, no, I am a chowkidar of Anil Ambani and hence the contract would go to his company despite it not having the knowhow. So much for his patriotism," Gandhi said. He claimed farmers who have taken loans live in fear that they may be jailed for defaulting on repayment. This is despite the fact that big-time defaulters have been able to flee the country with outstanding loans of thousands of crores of rupees, he said. We will ensure that no farmer is made to suffer on account of inability to repay loans, Gandhi asserted. "We waived the loans of farmers in states like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan. Measures like these and promises like NYAY are just the beginning," Gandhi added. He also reaffirmed his commitment to filling 22 lakh posts lying vacant in government departments.

Our 'NYAY' to undo the 'anyay' of Narendra Modi govt: Rahul Gandhi

Senior BJP leader Arun Jaitley Sunday launched the party's campaign themes for the Lok Sabha polls and asserted that the choice for people in the elections will be between the "cohesive and tested" government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and "chaos and mahamilawat" offered by the Opposition.&nbsp;

Taking a swipe at the Opposition, he said people have to decide between a government led by one captain or a team of 11 players, and that of 40 captains.

His party's campaign with the tag line of "Phir ek bar, Modi sarkar" (Modi government, once more) will centre on the Modi's five-year performance, including on the national security front, "honesty", and his ability to take big decisions among other issues, Jaitley told reporters. The Union minister said these promises are not for future as the government has fulfilled them in its five-year term.

The BJP will launch its manifesto on Monday. Jaitley was joined by Union minister Piyush Goyal and BJP general secretary Bhupender Yadav, among others, at the press conference, where they also released slogans and video materials for the party's campaign.

The poor, the middle class and the neo-middle class will be at the centre of the BJP's electioneering, Jaitley said and took a swipe at the Congress for "not even saying a word" on the emerging middle class when it launched its manifesto. In fact, some of the advisers to the Congress have spoken of levying more taxes on this class, he said, adding the Modi government has consistently reduced their taxes, something that has never happened earlier.

The Indian middle class will impact the global economy in the coming decades in the same way the Chinese economy influenced it earlier, he said. Pitching for a majority for the BJP in the Lok Sabha polls as it got in 2014, he said it enabled the party to take decisive and big decisions on a host of measures, including national security, corruption and black money.

Many opposition leaders have spoken about their wish for a hung Parliament and it is now for people to decide, Jaitley said. "The country has decided as to whether a weak centre (government) will be in the country's interest or a decisive prime minister heading a majority government," he said.

On one hand, is a cohesive and tested government and on the other is the choice of chaos and mahamilawat (grand adulteration), he said. The Modi government succeeded in keeping inflation low while also expanding the tax base, reducing taxes on the middle class and spending money on welfare measures and exercises like One Rank One Pension, he said.

Senior BJP leader Arun Jaitley Sunday launched the party's campaign themes for the Lok Sabha polls and asserted that the choice for people in the elections will be between the "cohesive and tested" government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and "chaos and mahamilawat" offered by the Opposition.

Senior BJP leader Arun Jaitley Sunday launched the party's campaign themes for the Lok Sabha polls and asserted that the choice for people in the elections will be between the "cohesive and tested" government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and "chaos and mahamilawat" offered by the Opposition. Taking a swipe at the Opposition, he said people have to decide between a government led by one captain or a team of 11 players, and that of 40 captains. His party's campaign with the tag line of "Phir ek bar, Modi sarkar" (Modi government, once more) will centre on the Modi's five-year performance, including on the national security front, "honesty", and his ability to take big decisions among other issues, Jaitley told reporters. The Union minister said these promises are not for future as the government has fulfilled them in its five-year term. The BJP will launch its manifesto on Monday. Jaitley was joined by Union minister Piyush Goyal and BJP general secretary Bhupender Yadav, among others, at the press conference, where they also released slogans and video materials for the party's campaign. The poor, the middle class and the neo-middle class will be at the centre of the BJP's electioneering, Jaitley said and took a swipe at the Congress for "not even saying a word" on the emerging middle class when it launched its manifesto. In fact, some of the advisers to the Congress have spoken of levying more taxes on this class, he said, adding the Modi government has consistently reduced their taxes, something that has never happened earlier. The Indian middle class will impact the global economy in the coming decades in the same way the Chinese economy influenced it earlier, he said. Pitching for a majority for the BJP in the Lok Sabha polls as it got in 2014, he said it enabled the party to take decisive and big decisions on a host of measures, including national security, corruption and black money. Many opposition leaders have spoken about their wish for a hung Parliament and it is now for people to decide, Jaitley said. "The country has decided as to whether a weak centre (government) will be in the country's interest or a decisive prime minister heading a majority government," he said. On one hand, is a cohesive and tested government and on the other is the choice of chaos and mahamilawat (grand adulteration), he said. The Modi government succeeded in keeping inflation low while also expanding the tax base, reducing taxes on the middle class and spending money on welfare measures and exercises like One Rank One Pension, he said.

BJP launches campaign themes, says choice between decisive Modi & Opposition's chaos

The middle class has always suffered under Congress rule, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in Tripura on Sunday. Modi is on another one of his campaign blitzkriegs, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/didi-supporting-those-who-want-two-prime-ministers-pm-modi-208494">having </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/didi-supporting-those-who-want-two-prime-ministers-pm-modi-208494">spoke</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/didi-supporting-those-who-want-two-prime-ministers-pm-modi-208494">n in Bengal earlier in the day</a>, and being scheduled to speak later in Manipur.&nbsp;

"The middle-class has always suffered under the Congress government, the party has said that more taxes should be levied on the middle class," Modi said on Sunday.&nbsp;

He also referred to the Congress's recently-released election manifesto which contains a large dose of what is referred to as "welfarism". Modi called it a "dhakosla patra" (hypocricy document).&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Congress has, among other things, said in its manifesto that it will invest 6% of GDP in health and education, and that it will strengthen government hospitals and provide high-quality healthcare access to the poor if voted to power.

The party has also promised to enact the Right to Healthcare Act and guarantee every citizen free diagnostics, out-patient care, free medicines and hospitalisation, through a network of public hospitals and enlisted private hospitals.&nbsp;

Then of course there is its NYAY (Nyuntam Aay Yojana) scheme which envisages the giving of Rs 72,000 a year to 20% or 5 crore of India's poorest families.&nbsp;

"Congress released their manifesto, their 'dhakosla patra' three days ago, not even once 'dhakosla patra' mentions middle class, such hatred towards middle class," Modi said.&nbsp;

"They think middle class has made Modi win and that's why they're adamant on punishing middle class," he added.&nbsp;

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PM Modi in Udaipur, Tripura: Congress released their manifesto, their 'dhakosla patra' 3 days ago,not even once 'dhakosla patra' mentions middle class,such hatred towards middle class.They think middle class has made Modi win &amp; that's why they're adamant on punishing middle class <a href="https://t.co/TnqVg7DIp3">pic.twitter.com/TnqVg7DIp3</a>
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Modi also added Sunday that "the Congress and the Left are working to oust Modi, even if that means they have to support the interests of Pakistan".&nbsp;

"The Congress and the Left are working together to oust Modi. They have stooped too low, singing paeans to Pakistan even when the NDA government was taking on the terrorists on the soil of the neighbouring country," Modi said.&nbsp;

"Am I not doing the right thing by giving a befitting reply to the enemies of the country?" he asked.

Modi meanwhile heaped praise on Chief Minister Biplab Deb, saying the state government had improved the law and order situation and developed infrastructure in only one year.

Election to two Lok Sabha seats in Tripura will be held on April 11 and 18.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

The middle class has always suffered under Congress rule, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in Tripura on Sunday. Modi is on another one of his campaign blitzkriegs, having spoken in Bengal earlier in the day, and being scheduled to speak later in Manipur.

The middle class has always suffered under Congress rule, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in Tripura on Sunday. Modi is on another one of his campaign blitzkriegs, having spoken in Bengal earlier in the day, and being scheduled to speak later in Manipur. "The middle-class has always suffered under the Congress government, the party has said that more taxes should be levied on the middle class," Modi said on Sunday. He also referred to the Congress's recently-released election manifesto which contains a large dose of what is referred to as "welfarism". Modi called it a "dhakosla patra" (hypocricy document). The Congress has, among other things, said in its manifesto that it will invest 6% of GDP in health and education, and that it will strengthen government hospitals and provide high-quality healthcare access to the poor if voted to power. The party has also promised to enact the Right to Healthcare Act and guarantee every citizen free diagnostics, out-patient care, free medicines and hospitalisation, through a network of public hospitals and enlisted private hospitals. Then of course there is its NYAY (Nyuntam Aay Yojana) scheme which envisages the giving of Rs 72,000 a year to 20% or 5 crore of India's poorest families. "Congress released their manifesto, their 'dhakosla patra' three days ago, not even once 'dhakosla patra' mentions middle class, such hatred towards middle class," Modi said. "They think middle class has made Modi win and that's why they're adamant on punishing middle class," he added. PM Modi in Udaipur, Tripura: Congress released their manifesto, their 'dhakosla patra' 3 days ago,not even once 'dhakosla patra' mentions middle class,such hatred towards middle class.They think middle class has made Modi win & that's why they're adamant on punishing middle class pic.twitter.com/TnqVg7DIp3 — ANI (@ANI) April 7, 2019 × Modi also added Sunday that "the Congress and the Left are working to oust Modi, even if that means they have to support the interests of Pakistan". "The Congress and the Left are working together to oust Modi. They have stooped too low, singing paeans to Pakistan even when the NDA government was taking on the terrorists on the soil of the neighbouring country," Modi said. "Am I not doing the right thing by giving a befitting reply to the enemies of the country?" he asked. Modi meanwhile heaped praise on Chief Minister Biplab Deb, saying the state government had improved the law and order situation and developed infrastructure in only one year. Election to two Lok Sabha seats in Tripura will be held on April 11 and 18. (With inputs from PTI)

Middle class has always suffered under Congress rule: PM Modi in Tripura

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was formed on April 6, 1980. Today, with a vaunted membership of 100 million people, it is the world’s largest political organisation. What is more, from a dismal tally of just two seats in 1984, the first general elections after it was founded, in 2014 it notched up an impressive 282 of the National Democratic Alliance’s total of 336 seats in the 543-seat Lok Sabha. What an incredible success story, even its harshest critics would admit.&nbsp;

Actually, the climb of the BJP to its current summit is even more remarkable than it might first appear. In its earlier avatar, it was known as the Akhil Bharatiya Jana Sangh or Jana Sangh, for short.

The Jana Sangh was started on 21 October 1951. Unfortunately, its founder and first president, Syama Prasad Mukherjee, died in Srinagar less than two years later, on June 23, 1953. Mukherjee entered Kashmir on May 21, 1953, to protest against Article 370 granting special status to the state.&nbsp;

His slogan, “Ek desh me do nishan, do pradhan, nahin chalega, nahin chalega,” had become popular all over India at that time. Mukherjee was arrested at Lakhenpur soon after he had crossed the “border,” then transferred to Srinagar Central Jail. When his health deteriorated, he was placed under house arrest. There, diagnosed as suffering from “dry pleurisy,” he had a severe reaction to streptomycin administered by Dr Ali Mohammad. On June 22, Mukherjee was transferred to the hospital after suffering a heart attack. The very next day, he died in circumstances which many regard as “suspicious.” No post-mortem was conducted, nor did Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru seek to an inquiry.

If Mukherjee was its founder, Deen Dayal Upadhyaya was Jana Sangh’s most influential ideologue. His “Integral Humanism” remains the guiding philosophy of the BJP.

Upadhyaya became the president of Jana Sangh in December 1967. Just a couple of months afterwards, he was murdered on February 11, 1968. Around 2:00 am, he was pushed out of a moving train nearing Mughalsarai Junction. His body was found some 700 metres from the platform. A one-man inquiry commission by Justice YV&nbsp;Chandrachud, then of Bombay High Court, concluded that “nothing that has come before me can support the accusation that there was any politics in Shri Upadhyaya’s murder.” Last August, Mughalsarai was renamed PT. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction.

During the anti- and post-Emergency period of 1977-1980, the Jana Sangh merged into the Janata Party. This conglomeration of ideologically diverse pollical forces, which had come together to oust Indira Gandhi from power, fell apart, giving rise to most of the non-Congress political formations that are present till today in our complex electoral arrangements. The issue flagged by the opponents of the Jana Sangh faction within the Janata Party was the former’s “dual membership” or link with the other “Sangh,” their parent organisation, the RSS. Indeed, it is this umbilical cord that actually defines the BJP’s distinctive identity in our political spectrum.

That is why the two “real” progenitors of the BJP must not be overlooked. “Guruji” Madhav Sadashiv Golwalkar became the Sarsanghachalak or head of the RSS in 1940. He inspired Mukherjee and other right-leaning leaders, giving them several RSS workers to start a political party. Before him, “Doctorji” Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, the founder and first Sarsaghachalak of the RSS, had already recognized the need for a political party to safeguard the interests of the Hindus. That is why the Jana Sangh was established close to his birthday, Gudi Padva, the start of the new year for Maharashtrians, Telugus, and Kannadigas. A former Congressman, Hedgewar founded the RSS in 1925 and was a prominent member of the Hindu Mahasabha. The latter, however, failed to take off. After independence, Golwalkar decided to support another political organisation, which is how the Jana Sangh came into being.

Given this background, when one of the founders of the BJP, nonagenarian LK Advani, writes a blog, the nation sits up and takes note. Especially on the eve of the 39th anniversary of the foundation of the party and just before the general elections. Who can disagree with the view that “in our conception of Indian nationalism, we have never regarded those who disagree with us politically as ‘anti-national’”? Or that “Nation First, Party Next, Self Last” and “the triad of Satya (truth), Rashtra Nishtha (dedication to the Nation) and Loktantra (democracy, both within and outside the party)” should guide the party? PM Narendra Modi, the BJP’s star campaigner, was quick to take advantage of Advani’s admonitions. He tweeted, “Proud That Greats Like LK Advani Strengthened BJP” and “Perfectly sums up true essence of BJP” thus check-mating the opposition’s and media’s attempt to turn Advani’s statement against the current BJP leadership.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-advani-modi-the-saffron-party-s-foundation-day-2736694">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was formed on April 6, 1980. Today, with a vaunted membership of 100 million people, it is the world’s largest political organisation.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was formed on April 6, 1980. Today, with a vaunted membership of 100 million people, it is the world’s largest political organisation. What is more, from a dismal tally of just two seats in 1984, the first general elections after it was founded, in 2014 it notched up an impressive 282 of the National Democratic Alliance’s total of 336 seats in the 543-seat Lok Sabha. What an incredible success story, even its harshest critics would admit. Actually, the climb of the BJP to its current summit is even more remarkable than it might first appear. In its earlier avatar, it was known as the Akhil Bharatiya Jana Sangh or Jana Sangh, for short. The Jana Sangh was started on 21 October 1951. Unfortunately, its founder and first president, Syama Prasad Mukherjee, died in Srinagar less than two years later, on June 23, 1953. Mukherjee entered Kashmir on May 21, 1953, to protest against Article 370 granting special status to the state. His slogan, “Ek desh me do nishan, do pradhan, nahin chalega, nahin chalega,” had become popular all over India at that time. Mukherjee was arrested at Lakhenpur soon after he had crossed the “border,” then transferred to Srinagar Central Jail. When his health deteriorated, he was placed under house arrest. There, diagnosed as suffering from “dry pleurisy,” he had a severe reaction to streptomycin administered by Dr Ali Mohammad. On June 22, Mukherjee was transferred to the hospital after suffering a heart attack. The very next day, he died in circumstances which many regard as “suspicious.” No post-mortem was conducted, nor did Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru seek to an inquiry. If Mukherjee was its founder, Deen Dayal Upadhyaya was Jana Sangh’s most influential ideologue. His “Integral Humanism” remains the guiding philosophy of the BJP. Upadhyaya became the president of Jana Sangh in December 1967. Just a couple of months afterwards, he was murdered on February 11, 1968. Around 2:00 am, he was pushed out of a moving train nearing Mughalsarai Junction. His body was found some 700 metres from the platform. A one-man inquiry commission by Justice YV Chandrachud, then of Bombay High Court, concluded that “nothing that has come before me can support the accusation that there was any politics in Shri Upadhyaya’s murder.” Last August, Mughalsarai was renamed PT. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction. During the anti- and post-Emergency period of 1977-1980, the Jana Sangh merged into the Janata Party. This conglomeration of ideologically diverse pollical forces, which had come together to oust Indira Gandhi from power, fell apart, giving rise to most of the non-Congress political formations that are present till today in our complex electoral arrangements. The issue flagged by the opponents of the Jana Sangh faction within the Janata Party was the former’s “dual membership” or link with the other “Sangh,” their parent organisation, the RSS. Indeed, it is this umbilical cord that actually defines the BJP’s distinctive identity in our political spectrum. That is why the two “real” progenitors of the BJP must not be overlooked. “Guruji” Madhav Sadashiv Golwalkar became the Sarsanghachalak or head of the RSS in 1940. He inspired Mukherjee and other right-leaning leaders, giving them several RSS workers to start a political party. Before him, “Doctorji” Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, the founder and first Sarsaghachalak of the RSS, had already recognized the need for a political party to safeguard the interests of the Hindus. That is why the Jana Sangh was established close to his birthday, Gudi Padva, the start of the new year for Maharashtrians, Telugus, and Kannadigas. A former Congressman, Hedgewar founded the RSS in 1925 and was a prominent member of the Hindu Mahasabha. The latter, however, failed to take off. After independence, Golwalkar decided to support another political organisation, which is how the Jana Sangh came into being. Given this background, when one of the founders of the BJP, nonagenarian LK Advani, writes a blog, the nation sits up and takes note. Especially on the eve of the 39th anniversary of the foundation of the party and just before the general elections. Who can disagree with the view that “in our conception of Indian nationalism, we have never regarded those who disagree with us politically as ‘anti-national’”? Or that “Nation First, Party Next, Self Last” and “the triad of Satya (truth), Rashtra Nishtha (dedication to the Nation) and Loktantra (democracy, both within and outside the party)” should guide the party? PM Narendra Modi, the BJP’s star campaigner, was quick to take advantage of Advani’s admonitions. He tweeted, “Proud That Greats Like LK Advani Strengthened BJP” and “Perfectly sums up true essence of BJP” thus check-mating the opposition’s and media’s attempt to turn Advani’s statement against the current BJP leadership. (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.)

Modi checkmated opposition's attempt to turn Advani’s statement against current BJP leadership

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - April 2nd, 2019

Lok Sabha polls: From Indira's era to rise of NDA, a look at India's electoral history

Trinamool Congress Chief Mamata Banerjee Wednesday hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his announcement about India's successful demonstration of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-important-message-to-nation-modi-says-india-shot-down-low-earth-orbit-satellite-with-anti-satellite-missile-pm-modi-205973">anti-satellite missile capability</a>, saying it was "yet another limitless drama" to "reap political benefits" ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.

Terming it a gross violation of the model code of conduct, Banerjee said there was "no great urgency" of announcing the mission by a government "past its expiry date" and asserted that it seems to be the "desperate oxygen to save the imminent sinking of the BJP boat".

She said she will lodge a complaint with the Election Commission.

"India's Mission Programme is world-class for many many years. We are always proud of our scientists, @DRDO_India, other research &amp; space organisations," she said adding research, space management and development are a continuous process over the years and "Modi, as usual likes to take the credit for everything".

She said, "credit to those who really deserve it, our scientists &amp; researchers."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday announced that India had demonstrated anti-satellite missile capability by shooting down a live satellite, describing it as a rare achievement that puts the country in an exclusive club of space superpowers.

"Today's announcement is yet another limitless drama and publicity mongering by Modi desperately trying to reap political benefits at the time of the election. This is a gross violation of the Model Code of Conduct.

"There is no great urgency in conducting and announcing the mission now by a government past its expiry date. It seems desperate oxygen to save the imminent sinking of the BJP boat. We are lodging a complaint with the Election Commission," the West Bengal chief minister said in a series of tweets.

Senior TMC leader and West Bengal minister Firhad Hakim said that Narendra Modi should stop taking credit for the achievement or job done by others.

"Shooting down a satellite is the credit of our scientists. The Modi government in the last five years has failed to provide any relief to the people of the country," senior the TMC leader.

"So ahead of the elections, the BJP and Modi should stop these tricks to fool the masses. It won't have any impact on the poll prospects of the BJP in the upcoming elections," Hakim said.

Meanwhile, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal congratulated the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and the entire scientific community for achieving yet another milestone by successfully testing ASAT technology.

"Congratulations once again to DRDO &amp; entire scientific community in achieving yet another milestone by successfully testing ASAT technology," he tweeted.&nbsp;

Trinamool Congress Chief Mamata Banerjee Wednesday hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his announcement about India's successful demonstration of anti-satellite missile capability, saying it was "yet another limitless drama" to "reap political benefits" ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.

Trinamool Congress Chief Mamata Banerjee Wednesday hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his announcement about India's successful demonstration of anti-satellite missile capability, saying it was "yet another limitless drama" to "reap political benefits" ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. Terming it a gross violation of the model code of conduct, Banerjee said there was "no great urgency" of announcing the mission by a government "past its expiry date" and asserted that it seems to be the "desperate oxygen to save the imminent sinking of the BJP boat". She said she will lodge a complaint with the Election Commission. "India's Mission Programme is world-class for many many years. We are always proud of our scientists, @DRDO_India, other research & space organisations," she said adding research, space management and development are a continuous process over the years and "Modi, as usual likes to take the credit for everything". She said, "credit to those who really deserve it, our scientists & researchers." Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday announced that India had demonstrated anti-satellite missile capability by shooting down a live satellite, describing it as a rare achievement that puts the country in an exclusive club of space superpowers. "Today's announcement is yet another limitless drama and publicity mongering by Modi desperately trying to reap political benefits at the time of the election. This is a gross violation of the Model Code of Conduct. "There is no great urgency in conducting and announcing the mission now by a government past its expiry date. It seems desperate oxygen to save the imminent sinking of the BJP boat. We are lodging a complaint with the Election Commission," the West Bengal chief minister said in a series of tweets. Senior TMC leader and West Bengal minister Firhad Hakim said that Narendra Modi should stop taking credit for the achievement or job done by others. "Shooting down a satellite is the credit of our scientists. The Modi government in the last five years has failed to provide any relief to the people of the country," senior the TMC leader. "So ahead of the elections, the BJP and Modi should stop these tricks to fool the masses. It won't have any impact on the poll prospects of the BJP in the upcoming elections," Hakim said. Meanwhile, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal congratulated the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and the entire scientific community for achieving yet another milestone by successfully testing ASAT technology. "Congratulations once again to DRDO & entire scientific community in achieving yet another milestone by successfully testing ASAT technology," he tweeted.

Limitless drama to reap political benefits: Mamata Banerjee on Mission Shakti

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Wednesday that India had shot down a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-low-earth-orbit-satellite-against-which-india-launched-a-surgical-strike-in-space-205974">low earth orbit satellite</a> with an A-Sat (anti-satellite) missile.&nbsp;

With that, Modi added, India had become an "elite space power".&nbsp;

Only three countries — America, Russia and China — the prime minister said, have this capability. India is the fourth to join the club.&nbsp;

The operation had been called "Mission Shakti", and consisted of the A-Sat missile shooting down a live satellite in low earth orbit.&nbsp;

The entire operation, Modi said, had taken three minutes.&nbsp;

Modi added that India's A-Sat missile was not meant to be used for offence, but for defence.&nbsp;

Modi said he wanted to clarify to the world's powers that this new technology was not meant to be used against any country, but that it was for India's defence.&nbsp;

He added India is against a space race, and that "we still follow this policy".&nbsp;

"We did not violate any international treaty," he added.&nbsp;

"We want to use our technology for the safety and betterment of our 130 crore people," he said. "We need a strong India".&nbsp;

Modi added that India's new anti-satellite missile will help the country "emerge as a safe, progressive and strong country".&nbsp;And that "we should be ready to counter all threats in the future".&nbsp;

Modi had said earlier on Wednesday that he had an "important message" to give to the country.&nbsp;

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An important message to the nation. Watch. <a href="https://t.co/0LEOATgOOQ">https://t.co/0LEOATgOOQ</a>
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1110797218703761408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MissionShakti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MissionShakti</a> is special for 2 reasons: 
(1) India is only the 4th country to acquire such a specialised &amp; modern capability. 
(2) Entire effort is indigenous. 
India stands tall as a space power! 
It will make India stronger, even more secure and will further peace and harmony.
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1110801488559759360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"#MissionShakti is special for 2 reasons," Modi tweeted after making his announcement.&nbsp;

"India is only the 4th country to acquire such a specialised &amp; modern capability" and "entire effort is indigenous" he elaborated.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Wednesday that India had shot down a low earth orbit satellite with an A-Sat (anti-satellite) missile. With that, Modi added, India had become an "elite space power".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Wednesday that India had shot down a low earth orbit satellite with an A-Sat (anti-satellite) missile. With that, Modi added, India had become an "elite space power". Only three countries — America, Russia and China — the prime minister said, have this capability. India is the fourth to join the club. The operation had been called "Mission Shakti", and consisted of the A-Sat missile shooting down a live satellite in low earth orbit. The entire operation, Modi said, had taken three minutes. Modi added that India's A-Sat missile was not meant to be used for offence, but for defence. Modi said he wanted to clarify to the world's powers that this new technology was not meant to be used against any country, but that it was for India's defence. He added India is against a space race, and that "we still follow this policy". "We did not violate any international treaty," he added. "We want to use our technology for the safety and betterment of our 130 crore people," he said. "We need a strong India". Modi added that India's new anti-satellite missile will help the country "emerge as a safe, progressive and strong country". And that "we should be ready to counter all threats in the future". Modi had said earlier on Wednesday that he had an "important message" to give to the country. An important message to the nation. Watch. https://t.co/0LEOATgOOQ — Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 27, 2019 × #MissionShakti is special for 2 reasons: (1) India is only the 4th country to acquire such a specialised & modern capability. (2) Entire effort is indigenous. India stands tall as a space power! It will make India stronger, even more secure and will further peace and harmony. — Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 27, 2019 × "#MissionShakti is special for 2 reasons," Modi tweeted after making his announcement. "India is only the 4th country to acquire such a specialised & modern capability" and "entire effort is indigenous" he elaborated.

In 'important message' to nation, Modi says India shot down satellite in space

The original deal to procure 126 fighter jet could not go through during the UPA rule despite reaching the final stage as the then Defence Minister A K Antony felt there was something wrong in the process and asked for a review, defence ministry sources claimed.

The sources talked about Antony's intervention while asserting that there was no deal arrived at during the UPA regime to procure 126 medium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA).

The Congress has been ramping up attack on the government over the Rafale issue, claiming that the deal negotiated under its rule was much cheaper then the contract signed by the Modi government to procure 36 Rafale fighter jets from France at a cost of Rs 58,000 crore.

The sources said Antony's apprehensions may have been genuine and he may have had bonafide reasons for such an intervention. The price negotiating committee was at that time examining the deal after initially getting approval for it from the then defence minister.

Also read:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indian-cabinet-approves-purchase-of-36-rafale-fighter-jets-source-6629">&nbsp;Indian cabinet approves purchase of 36 Rafale fighter jets: Source</a>

The sources also said that the Eurofighter Typhoon had offered to bring down their prices by 25 per cent after Rafale was declared L1 vendor.

"Such a proposal after declaring the winning bidder was not at all acceptable as per laid down procedure. You cannot do that," said a source.

Alleging a "scam", the opposition Congress has been asking the government whether the per aircraft price of Rafale, according to international bids opened on December 12, 2012, comes to USD 80.95 million (Rs 526.1 crore) as against the Modi government's per aircraft negotiated price of USD 241.66 Million (Rs 1,570.8 crore) as per current exchange rates.

The UPA government floated a tender in 2007 for purchase of 126 MMRCA for the Air Force and, post negotiations, two of them--Rafale and Eurofighter Typhoon -- remained in the reckoning.

However, the deal could not be finalised by the UPA regime.

Asked why NDA government did not go for Eurofighter Typhoon as it had offered a 25 per cent price cut, the sources said several European countries were involved in manufacturing of Eurofighter and France was preferred for the inter- governmental deal.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-attacks-jaitley-sitaraman-with-facts-over-rafale-deal-32340">Congress president</a>, on Friday, called out Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Twitter and said: "You said the UPA never released prices of Defence purchases? To nail your lie, here are 3 Parliamentary replies by the UPA with full transparency on pricing. Now do ask our Raksha Mantri to tell India how much each RAFALE jet cost."&nbsp;

With that, he attached screenshots of documents - one dated 9 August 2010 titled "Aircraft Carrier Admiral Gorshkov" and another 4 March 2013 titled "Upgradation of Aircraft" - by the Ministry of Defence.&nbsp;

The sources said the rates cannot be compared as price depended on the weapons package.

In a detailed statement, the defence ministry had on Wednesday termed as "unfounded" allegations made by the Congress about the Rs 58,000-crore deal, asserting that the demand to disclose details such as its value was "unrealistic" as doing so might compromise India's national security.

It had said giving an item-wise cost and other information would reveal details about weapons systems and customisation of the jet.

The ministry had said that in 2012, the then defence&nbsp;minister exercised an unprecedented personal veto on the laid down institutional process then underway for the procurement of 126 jets.

The sources talked about Antony's intervention while asserting that there was no deal arrived at during the UPA regime to procure 126 medium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA)

The original deal to procure 126 fighter jet could not go through during the UPA rule despite reaching the final stage as the then Defence Minister A K Antony felt there was something wrong in the process and asked for a review, defence ministry sources claimed. The sources talked about Antony's intervention while asserting that there was no deal arrived at during the UPA regime to procure 126 medium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA). The Congress has been ramping up attack on the government over the Rafale issue, claiming that the deal negotiated under its rule was much cheaper then the contract signed by the Modi government to procure 36 Rafale fighter jets from France at a cost of Rs 58,000 crore. The sources said Antony's apprehensions may have been genuine and he may have had bonafide reasons for such an intervention. The price negotiating committee was at that time examining the deal after initially getting approval for it from the then defence minister. Also read: Indian cabinet approves purchase of 36 Rafale fighter jets: Source The sources also said that the Eurofighter Typhoon had offered to bring down their prices by 25 per cent after Rafale was declared L1 vendor. "Such a proposal after declaring the winning bidder was not at all acceptable as per laid down procedure. You cannot do that," said a source. Alleging a "scam", the opposition Congress has been asking the government whether the per aircraft price of Rafale, according to international bids opened on December 12, 2012, comes to USD 80.95 million (Rs 526.1 crore) as against the Modi government's per aircraft negotiated price of USD 241.66 Million (Rs 1,570.8 crore) as per current exchange rates. The UPA government floated a tender in 2007 for purchase of 126 MMRCA for the Air Force and, post negotiations, two of them--Rafale and Eurofighter Typhoon -- remained in the reckoning. However, the deal could not be finalised by the UPA regime. Asked why NDA government did not go for Eurofighter Typhoon as it had offered a 25 per cent price cut, the sources said several European countries were involved in manufacturing of Eurofighter and France was preferred for the inter- governmental deal. The Congress president, on Friday, called out Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Twitter and said: "You said the UPA never released prices of Defence purchases? To nail your lie, here are 3 Parliamentary replies by the UPA with full transparency on pricing. Now do ask our Raksha Mantri to tell India how much each RAFALE jet cost." With that, he attached screenshots of documents - one dated 9 August 2010 titled "Aircraft Carrier Admiral Gorshkov" and another 4 March 2013 titled "Upgradation of Aircraft" - by the Ministry of Defence. The sources said the rates cannot be compared as price depended on the weapons package. In a detailed statement, the defence ministry had on Wednesday termed as "unfounded" allegations made by the Congress about the Rs 58,000-crore deal, asserting that the demand to disclose details such as its value was "unrealistic" as doing so might compromise India's national security. It had said giving an item-wise cost and other information would reveal details about weapons systems and customisation of the jet. The ministry had said that in 2012, the then defence minister exercised an unprecedented personal veto on the laid down institutional process then underway for the procurement of 126 jets.

There was no Rafale deal under UPA: Defence ministry sources

Days after Bollywood lyricist Javed Akhtar expressed his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/javed-akhtar-denies-writing-songs-for-pm-narendra-modi-biopic-tweets-shocked-204911">disappointment over the inclusion of his name</a> on the poster of the 'Narendra Modi' movie, producer of the movie Sandip Singh, clarified on Sunday that he was given approval from T-series Bhushan Kumar.

"I grew up hearing Javed Akhtar sir's songs, I wanted to keep one of his songs in the movie; I spoke to T-series' Bhushan Kumar ji, he agreed to it. I don't know if he (Akhtar) was informed about it, it's the music company's job, "Sandip Singh said.

Javed Akhtar had earlier tweeted the poster of the film and said, “Am shocked to find my name on the poster of this film. Have not written any songs for it."

Akhtar was mentioned in the poster of the movie "Narendra Modi" which is set to release on April 5. &nbsp;

Directed by Omung Kumar, the movie is starring Vivek Oberoi who is playing the role of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

On being cast for the role, Vivek in an interview said, "I consider Modiji as an inspiration. Modiji is one of those personalities... if he decides something, if he is clear with his vision, he doesn't fear to achieve his goal. It is very inspirational."

Days after Bollywood lyricist Javed Akhtar expressed his disappointment over the inclusion of his name on the poster of the 'Narendra Modi' movie, producer of the movie Sandip Singh, clarified on Sunday that he was given approval from T-series Bhushan Kumar.

Days after Bollywood lyricist Javed Akhtar expressed his disappointment over the inclusion of his name on the poster of the 'Narendra Modi' movie, producer of the movie Sandip Singh, clarified on Sunday that he was given approval from T-series Bhushan Kumar. "I grew up hearing Javed Akhtar sir's songs, I wanted to keep one of his songs in the movie; I spoke to T-series' Bhushan Kumar ji, he agreed to it. I don't know if he (Akhtar) was informed about it, it's the music company's job, "Sandip Singh said. Javed Akhtar had earlier tweeted the poster of the film and said, “Am shocked to find my name on the poster of this film. Have not written any songs for it." Akhtar was mentioned in the poster of the movie "Narendra Modi" which is set to release on April 5. Directed by Omung Kumar, the movie is starring Vivek Oberoi who is playing the role of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On being cast for the role, Vivek in an interview said, "I consider Modiji as an inspiration. Modiji is one of those personalities... if he decides something, if he is clear with his vision, he doesn't fear to achieve his goal. It is very inspirational."

T-series Bhushan Kumar agreed to include Javed Akhtar's song in 'Narendra Modi' movie: Producer Sandip Singh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru on their death anniversary and said their story of supreme sacrifice will continue to inspire generations.

"I bow to Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev on their martyrdom day. The tale of their courage and valour will continue to inspire generations," Prime Minister Tweeted.

On March 23, 1931, the three revolutionary freedom fighters were hanged to death, a few hours ahead of schedule, in the Lahore conspiracy case.

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley also paid tributes to the three freedom fighters and wrote on the micro-blogging site, "On Martyrdom day of Shaeed-E-Azam Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev, we, remember their supreme sacrifice for the motherland and pay them our respectful tributes. The great martyrs have always been the inspiration for every Indian."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru on their death anniversary and said their story of supreme sacrifice will continue to inspire generations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru on their death anniversary and said their story of supreme sacrifice will continue to inspire generations. "I bow to Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev on their martyrdom day. The tale of their courage and valour will continue to inspire generations," Prime Minister Tweeted. On March 23, 1931, the three revolutionary freedom fighters were hanged to death, a few hours ahead of schedule, in the Lahore conspiracy case. Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley also paid tributes to the three freedom fighters and wrote on the micro-blogging site, "On Martyrdom day of Shaeed-E-Azam Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev, we, remember their supreme sacrifice for the motherland and pay them our respectful tributes. The great martyrs have always been the inspiration for every Indian."

PM Modi pays tribute to Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev on their martyrdom day

Prime Minister Narendra Modi writes in a blog on Saturday that Dr Lohia would be "proud" of the NDA government led by the BJP for following his ideas.

"Today those parties that falsely claim to be Dr Lohia's followers are desperate to form an opportunistic 'maha-milawat' or adulteration alliances with the same Congress (which Lohia opposed). It is both ironical and reprehensible," wrote PM Modi in a blog to mark the 109th birth anniversary of Lohia.

The Samajwadi Party, Janata Dal-Secular, Rashtriya Janata Dal and Sharad Yadav's Loktantrik Janata Dal, which will merge with the RJD after the Lok Sabha polls, were some of the parties formed on socialist ideology.

"Dr Lohia's thoughts inspire us. He wrote about modernising agriculture and empowering farmers, which the NDA government is effectively doing through efforts such as PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, Krishi Sinchai Yojana, e-Nam, Soil Health Cards and more," he said in the blog shared on Twitter.

Referring to gender inequality, the prime minister said nothing pained Lohia more than the caste hierarchy and inequality between women and men.

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Today they are betraying the principles of Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia, tomorrow they will also betray the people of India. 
 
My thoughts on why those who claim to follow Dr. Lohia have let him down. Do read. <a href="https://t.co/gq1srcXwkx">https://t.co/gq1srcXwkx</a>
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1109306402395377665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"But neck deep in vote bank politics, it was parties that dishonestly claim to be Dr Lohia's followers that opposed the NDA government's move to abolish the inhuman practice of triple talaq," he alleged.

Hitting out at the Congress, Modi said whenever Lohia spoke, the Congress "trembled with fear".

He said Lohia had once claimed that during the Congress regime neither agriculture and industry nor the Army improved.

"These words can accurately describe even subsequent Congress regimes, where farmers were harassed, the industry was discouraged (except if they belonged to friends and relatives of Congress leaders) and national security was ignored," the PM wrote.

(With inputs from PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi writes in a blog on Saturday that Dr Lohia would be "proud" of the NDA government led by the BJP for following his ideas. "Today those parties that falsely claim to be Dr Lohia's followers are desperate to form an opportunistic 'maha-milawat' or adulteration alliances with the same Congress (which Lohia opposed).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi writes in a blog on Saturday that Dr Lohia would be "proud" of the NDA government led by the BJP for following his ideas. "Today those parties that falsely claim to be Dr Lohia's followers are desperate to form an opportunistic 'maha-milawat' or adulteration alliances with the same Congress (which Lohia opposed). It is both ironical and reprehensible," wrote PM Modi in a blog to mark the 109th birth anniversary of Lohia. The Samajwadi Party, Janata Dal-Secular, Rashtriya Janata Dal and Sharad Yadav's Loktantrik Janata Dal, which will merge with the RJD after the Lok Sabha polls, were some of the parties formed on socialist ideology. "Dr Lohia's thoughts inspire us. He wrote about modernising agriculture and empowering farmers, which the NDA government is effectively doing through efforts such as PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, Krishi Sinchai Yojana, e-Nam, Soil Health Cards and more," he said in the blog shared on Twitter. Referring to gender inequality, the prime minister said nothing pained Lohia more than the caste hierarchy and inequality between women and men. Today they are betraying the principles of Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia, tomorrow they will also betray the people of India. My thoughts on why those who claim to follow Dr. Lohia have let him down. Do read. https://t.co/gq1srcXwkx — Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 23, 2019 × "But neck deep in vote bank politics, it was parties that dishonestly claim to be Dr Lohia's followers that opposed the NDA government's move to abolish the inhuman practice of triple talaq," he alleged. Hitting out at the Congress, Modi said whenever Lohia spoke, the Congress "trembled with fear". He said Lohia had once claimed that during the Congress regime neither agriculture and industry nor the Army improved. "These words can accurately describe even subsequent Congress regimes, where farmers were harassed, the industry was discouraged (except if they belonged to friends and relatives of Congress leaders) and national security was ignored," the PM wrote. (With inputs from PTI)

Ram Manohar Lohia would have been proud of NDA government: PM Modi

Ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Congress leader and Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that, "free and fair elections may become a thing of the past if Modi&nbsp;gets re-elected in the country".

Also calling PM Modi as a "good actor", Gehlot&nbsp;said the prime minister would do a better job in Bollywood.&nbsp;

"If people re-elect Modi, there will be no certainty on whether elections will be held again in the country or not. Elections will be held in the country and yet not held like it happens in China and Russia, " Gehlot said in an interview to PTI.

"If Modiji was in Bollywood, he would probably have left a different mark in the country and abroad with his mastery in acting, oratory skills and antics,"&nbsp;he said.

Gehlot further attacked PM Modi saying&nbsp;that nobody (including Amit Shah) knows "what's on his mind".&nbsp;

"This man can do anything to win elections...People felt he could even go to war with Pakistan, which is not a good thing....The personality of Modi ji that has emerged before the country is that he can go to any extent before and after elections...To win elections," Gehlot said while attacking Modi and added that "none including Amit Shah knows what is in his mind".

"Modi ji has done very good marketing," he also said, alleging the prime minister is creating a misconception in the minds of people about the Congress.

(With inputs from PTI)

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Congress leader and Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that, "free and fair elections may become a thing of the past if Modi gets re-elected in the country".

Ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Congress leader and Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that, "free and fair elections may become a thing of the past if Modi gets re-elected in the country". Also calling PM Modi as a "good actor", Gehlot said the prime minister would do a better job in Bollywood. "If people re-elect Modi, there will be no certainty on whether elections will be held again in the country or not. Elections will be held in the country and yet not held like it happens in China and Russia, " Gehlot said in an interview to PTI. "If Modiji was in Bollywood, he would probably have left a different mark in the country and abroad with his mastery in acting, oratory skills and antics," he said. Gehlot further attacked PM Modi saying that nobody (including Amit Shah) knows "what's on his mind". "This man can do anything to win elections...People felt he could even go to war with Pakistan, which is not a good thing....The personality of Modi ji that has emerged before the country is that he can go to any extent before and after elections...To win elections," Gehlot said while attacking Modi and added that "none including Amit Shah knows what is in his mind". "Modi ji has done very good marketing," he also said, alleging the prime minister is creating a misconception in the minds of people about the Congress. (With inputs from PTI)

Elections may become thing of past if Modi gets re-elected as prime minister: Ashok Gehlot

Life and times of Manohar Parrikar

NCP chief Sharad Pawar Tuesday said the BJP may emerge as the single largest party in the Lok Sabha elections, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unlikely to get a second term in office. He was talking to reporters on the sidelines of a function here.

"BJP may emerge as the single largest party post parliamentary elections and will have to seek the support of allies (to form the government). In that scenario, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unlikely to get a second term," Pawar said.

The former Union minister said he will meet some regional parties across the country on March 14 and 15 in New Delhi, where the further strategy of 'mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) will be discussed.

When asked about some regional parties going away from the Congress and NCP alliance in Maharashtra, Pawar said, "I appreciate the PWP for extending support to the NCP in the Lok Sabha election.

NCP has also held talks with the Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatna (SSS) for seat-sharing, but the farmers' front has some expectations from the Congress as well. It will be decided by these two parties."

On Monday, Pawar had said he will not contest next month's Lok Sabha election. The 78-year-old veteran politician had said as two members of his family are going to contest the polls, "somebody had to step back."

However, Pawar had earlier announced that his party workers wanted him to contest from Madha constituency in Solapur district, currently represented by NCP leader Vijaysinh Mohite Patil.

Reacting to Pawar's announcement of not contesting the Lok Sabha polls, Fadnavis had said the NCP leader "sensed the change in the air", and decided to rethink on plans to contest Lok Sabha poll from Madha LS seat.

On the chief minister's remarks, Pawar said, "It is childish to call my decision as a defeat as I have won elections 14 times, including the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections that I contested so far. On the other hand, late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and (BJP veteran) L K Advani had tasted defeat."&nbsp;

NCP chief Sharad Pawar Tuesday said the BJP may emerge as the single largest party in the Lok Sabha elections, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unlikely to get a second term in office.

NCP chief Sharad Pawar Tuesday said the BJP may emerge as the single largest party in the Lok Sabha elections, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unlikely to get a second term in office. He was talking to reporters on the sidelines of a function here. "BJP may emerge as the single largest party post parliamentary elections and will have to seek the support of allies (to form the government). In that scenario, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unlikely to get a second term," Pawar said. The former Union minister said he will meet some regional parties across the country on March 14 and 15 in New Delhi, where the further strategy of 'mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) will be discussed. When asked about some regional parties going away from the Congress and NCP alliance in Maharashtra, Pawar said, "I appreciate the PWP for extending support to the NCP in the Lok Sabha election. NCP has also held talks with the Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatna (SSS) for seat-sharing, but the farmers' front has some expectations from the Congress as well. It will be decided by these two parties." On Monday, Pawar had said he will not contest next month's Lok Sabha election. The 78-year-old veteran politician had said as two members of his family are going to contest the polls, "somebody had to step back." However, Pawar had earlier announced that his party workers wanted him to contest from Madha constituency in Solapur district, currently represented by NCP leader Vijaysinh Mohite Patil. Reacting to Pawar's announcement of not contesting the Lok Sabha polls, Fadnavis had said the NCP leader "sensed the change in the air", and decided to rethink on plans to contest Lok Sabha poll from Madha LS seat. On the chief minister's remarks, Pawar said, "It is childish to call my decision as a defeat as I have won elections 14 times, including the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections that I contested so far. On the other hand, late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and (BJP veteran) L K Advani had tasted defeat."

BJP may emerge as single largest party, but second term for PM Modi unlikely: Sharad Pawar

Defence Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/do-not-believe-in-people-who-spread-rumours-nirmala-sitharaman-to-ex-servicemen-201119">Nirmala Sitharaman </a>on Monday alleged that the UPA denied benefits to the "martyrs" of paramilitary forces for years and it was the Modi government which ultimately conferred these benefits.

In a Facebook post, she said that on March 3, 2011, under the UPA II government, a Cabinet note was moved by the Home Ministry for a declaration of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) persons, who died on active duty, as martyrs.

Subsequently, the then prime minister Manmohan Singh's office referred the matter to a Committee of Secretaries (CoS) on March 14 2011.

"Further on, in the CoS meeting which was held on 14th September 2011, the committee could not reach a common consensus on giving shaheed/martyr status to CAPF personnel who died on active duty. Thereafter, the matter was shelved altogether by Government of India and not taken up further," Sitharaman said.

She said after the Pulwama terror attack, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi added a "new dimension" to the public discourse for the paramilitary personnel, who lay down their lives in the line of duty, by demanding that they are given the martyr status which is given to those belonging to the armed forces.

"Mr Gandhi doesn't come from a school of thought wherein it is believed that those who sacrifice their lives for the cause of the nation are indeed martyrs in everyone's eyes, mind, heart and soul," she said.

Sitharaman said the Modi government in 2016 increased the ex-gratia lump sum compensation to families of deceased CAPF jawans from Rs 15 lakh to Rs 35 lakh in case of deaths occurring in border skirmishes and action against militants.

Further, in cases of death attributed to acts of violence, the compensation was increased to Rs 25 lakh. This was in addition to their all other allowances, the minister said.

In 2017, the government further issued guidelines for issuance of 'Operational Casualty Certificate' to the Next of Kin (NoK) of CAPFs, Assam Rifles and CPOs personnel confirming another set of benefits to them.

"They, along with lump sum ex-gratia pension to NoK, now get a liberalised family compensation and death gratuity as per rules. Presently, the compensation payable to our martyrs who have the 'Battle Casualty' status in the case of Indian Armed Forces and those who have the 'Operational Casualty' status in the case of CAPFs is identical," she said.

"The Congress president was expected to be in the aware and informed of these facts and information. The UPA government denied these benefits to the martyrs for years and it was the Modi-led NDA government which ultimately conferred these benefits," she added.

The 88,000 CRPF personnel who are deployed in the Left Wing Extremism-hit areas and Jammu and Kashmir had their 'risk and hardship' allowance increased by 48 per cent in the case of officers and 78 per cent in the case of other ranks.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday alleged that the UPA denied benefits to the "martyrs" of paramilitary forces for years and it was the Modi government which ultimately conferred these benefits.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday alleged that the UPA denied benefits to the "martyrs" of paramilitary forces for years and it was the Modi government which ultimately conferred these benefits. In a Facebook post, she said that on March 3, 2011, under the UPA II government, a Cabinet note was moved by the Home Ministry for a declaration of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) persons, who died on active duty, as martyrs. Subsequently, the then prime minister Manmohan Singh's office referred the matter to a Committee of Secretaries (CoS) on March 14 2011. "Further on, in the CoS meeting which was held on 14th September 2011, the committee could not reach a common consensus on giving shaheed/martyr status to CAPF personnel who died on active duty. Thereafter, the matter was shelved altogether by Government of India and not taken up further," Sitharaman said. She said after the Pulwama terror attack, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi added a "new dimension" to the public discourse for the paramilitary personnel, who lay down their lives in the line of duty, by demanding that they are given the martyr status which is given to those belonging to the armed forces. "Mr Gandhi doesn't come from a school of thought wherein it is believed that those who sacrifice their lives for the cause of the nation are indeed martyrs in everyone's eyes, mind, heart and soul," she said. Sitharaman said the Modi government in 2016 increased the ex-gratia lump sum compensation to families of deceased CAPF jawans from Rs 15 lakh to Rs 35 lakh in case of deaths occurring in border skirmishes and action against militants. Further, in cases of death attributed to acts of violence, the compensation was increased to Rs 25 lakh. This was in addition to their all other allowances, the minister said. In 2017, the government further issued guidelines for issuance of 'Operational Casualty Certificate' to the Next of Kin (NoK) of CAPFs, Assam Rifles and CPOs personnel confirming another set of benefits to them. "They, along with lump sum ex-gratia pension to NoK, now get a liberalised family compensation and death gratuity as per rules. Presently, the compensation payable to our martyrs who have the 'Battle Casualty' status in the case of Indian Armed Forces and those who have the 'Operational Casualty' status in the case of CAPFs is identical," she said. "The Congress president was expected to be in the aware and informed of these facts and information. The UPA government denied these benefits to the martyrs for years and it was the Modi-led NDA government which ultimately conferred these benefits," she added. The 88,000 CRPF personnel who are deployed in the Left Wing Extremism-hit areas and Jammu and Kashmir had their 'risk and hardship' allowance increased by 48 per cent in the case of officers and 78 per cent in the case of other ranks.

UPA denied martyr benefits to paramilitary forces, Modi govt conferred it: Nirmala Sitharaman

With the release of the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/2019-lok-sabha-elections-to-be-held-in-seven-phases-starting-april-11-202362"> election dates for the 2019 Lok Sabha</a> on Sunday, Prime Minister Modi extended best wishes to all political parties and candidates for the upcoming polls.

In a tweet, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/enough-is-enough-india-cannot-suffer-terrorism-till-eternity-pm-modi-202353">PM Modi</a> said, "Wishing all political parties and candidates the very best for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. We may belong to different parties but our aim must be the same- the development of India and empowerment of every Indian!".

He also urged the citizens of the country to come out in large numbers and mark their active participation in the polls.

"The festival of democracy, Elections are here. I urge my fellow Indians to enrich the 2019 Lok Sabha elections with their active participation. I hope this election witnesses a historic turnout. I particularly call upon first time voters to vote in record numbers".

He further praised the Election Commission of the country and extended wishes to the officials and the security personnel who will be on the field.

"Best wishes to the Election Commission, all those officials and security personnel who will be on the field, across the length and breadth of India assuring smooth elections. India is very proud of the EC for assiduously organising elections for several years".

PM Modi also sought blessings for his government and asked the countrymen to contribute to "#PhirEkBaarModiSarkar".

He said, "Guided by ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’, NDA seeks your blessings again. We spent the last five years fulfilling basic necessities that were left unfulfilled for 70 long years. Now, time has come to build on that and create a strong, prosperous &amp; secure India. #PhirEkBaarModiSarkar".

Hitting out at the Congress he said, "In 2014, the people comprehensively rejected the UPA. There was unprecedented anger over the UPA’s corruption, nepotism and policy paralysis. India’s self-confidence was at an all-time low and the people of India wanted to rid the nation of such decay and pessimism".

"The last five years have shown that with the blessings and participation of 130 crore Indians, what was earlier deemed impossible has now become possible," he added.&nbsp;

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Today, the people of India know that it is possible to: 
 
Become the fastest growing economy. 
 
Give a befitting reply to terror. 
 
Eliminate poverty at a record pace. 
 
Make India Swachh. 
 
Remove corruption and punish the corrupt. 
 
Ensure inclusive and extensive development.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1104723568661651461?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India is proud that: 
 
2.5 crore families have electricity for the first time. 
 
7 crore households have smoke-free kitchens. 
 
1.5 crore Indians got their own homes. 
 
These, and many other instances show that with the right approach and futuristic policies, nothing is impossible!
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1104723912867241984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The 2019 Lok Sabha elections are to be held in seven phases starting April from April 11.&nbsp;

The polling dates over the seven phases are April 11, April 18, April 23, May 6, May 12, and May 19. All votes will be counted on May 23.&nbsp;

The announcement was made Sunday by Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora.&nbsp;

With the release of the election dates for the 2019 Lok Sabha on Sunday, Prime Minister Modi extended best wishes to all political parties and candidates for the upcoming polls.

With the release of the election dates for the 2019 Lok Sabha on Sunday, Prime Minister Modi extended best wishes to all political parties and candidates for the upcoming polls. In a tweet, PM Modi said, "Wishing all political parties and candidates the very best for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. We may belong to different parties but our aim must be the same- the development of India and empowerment of every Indian!". He also urged the citizens of the country to come out in large numbers and mark their active participation in the polls. "The festival of democracy, Elections are here. I urge my fellow Indians to enrich the 2019 Lok Sabha elections with their active participation. I hope this election witnesses a historic turnout. I particularly call upon first time voters to vote in record numbers". He further praised the Election Commission of the country and extended wishes to the officials and the security personnel who will be on the field. "Best wishes to the Election Commission, all those officials and security personnel who will be on the field, across the length and breadth of India assuring smooth elections. India is very proud of the EC for assiduously organising elections for several years". PM Modi also sought blessings for his government and asked the countrymen to contribute to "#PhirEkBaarModiSarkar". He said, "Guided by ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’, NDA seeks your blessings again. We spent the last five years fulfilling basic necessities that were left unfulfilled for 70 long years. Now, time has come to build on that and create a strong, prosperous & secure India. #PhirEkBaarModiSarkar". Hitting out at the Congress he said, "In 2014, the people comprehensively rejected the UPA. There was unprecedented anger over the UPA’s corruption, nepotism and policy paralysis. India’s self-confidence was at an all-time low and the people of India wanted to rid the nation of such decay and pessimism". "The last five years have shown that with the blessings and participation of 130 crore Indians, what was earlier deemed impossible has now become possible," he added. Today, the people of India know that it is possible to: Become the fastest growing economy. Give a befitting reply to terror. Eliminate poverty at a record pace. Make India Swachh. Remove corruption and punish the corrupt. Ensure inclusive and extensive development. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 10, 2019 × India is proud that: 2.5 crore families have electricity for the first time. 7 crore households have smoke-free kitchens. 1.5 crore Indians got their own homes. These, and many other instances show that with the right approach and futuristic policies, nothing is impossible! — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 10, 2019 × The 2019 Lok Sabha elections are to be held in seven phases starting April from April 11. The polling dates over the seven phases are April 11, April 18, April 23, May 6, May 12, and May 19. All votes will be counted on May 23. The announcement was made Sunday by Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora.

Urge fellow Indians to enrich 2019 Lok Sabha elections with active participation: PM Modi

The Congress party is happy seeing fugitive billionaire <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-sends-nirav-modi-extradition-request-to-court-enforcement-directorate-202187">Nirav Modi in London</a>, said Union Minister Prakash Javadekar in Jaipur on Saturday.

“The Congress party, which has reared up Nirav Modi, feels happy to see that he is fine in London. It, however, does not know that the Indian government’s efforts are on to bring him back to India,” Javadekar told ANI.

He said that Indian government’s requests for the extradition of economic offenders have been acted upon earlier as well, and gave the example of Rajiv Saxena, Christian Michel, and Deepak Talwar to bring home his point.

“All these economic offenders ran away as soon as the BJP came to power at the Centre under the leadership of Narendra Modi. They knew that they won’t be spared by the BJP government. Till the time Congress was in power, they knew that their loot will continue,” he said.

“I want to ask the Congress leaders—What is their relationship with Nirav Modi? One day Rahul Gandhi goes to a programme organised by Nirav Modi, and next day he gets a loan from the Allahabad Bank,” Javadekar said.

Union Minister Javadekar’s reaction comes in response to the reports in British media that Nirav Modi is living in London.

The British newspaper story reveals that Modi has also started a new diamond business in Soho.

The newspaper headlined its piece—‘Exclusive: India’s most wanted man Nirav Modi—accused of £1.5 billion fraud—living openly in London.’

The video shows Nirav Modi sporting a handle-bar moustache and wearing an expensive jacket, repeatedly saying “no comments” to a series of questions put to him by the newspaper’s reporter, including whether he has sought asylum in the United Kingdom.

Modi is the subject of an extradition request by India, along with an Interpol Red Corner Notice issued for the PNB scam accused.

He is the prime accused in Rs 13,000 crore PNB fraud, along with his uncle Mehul Choksi, who has got the citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda.

Modi and Choksi left India in January last year before the PNB scam was exposed.The duo has not returned to India despite repeated summons from the probe agencies and courts to be put on trial.

“Journalists of The Telegraph managed to track down Nirav Modi. Why was the Modi Govt unable to do so? Who is Modi trying to protect? Himself, Nirav Modi or the people who let him escape?" the Congress tweeted on its official handle.

The Congress party is happy seeing fugitive billionaire Nirav Modi in London, said Union Minister Prakash Javadekar in Jaipur on Saturday. “The Congress party, which has reared up Nirav Modi, feels happy to see that he is fine in London.

The Congress party is happy seeing fugitive billionaire Nirav Modi in London, said Union Minister Prakash Javadekar in Jaipur on Saturday. “The Congress party, which has reared up Nirav Modi, feels happy to see that he is fine in London. It, however, does not know that the Indian government’s efforts are on to bring him back to India,” Javadekar told ANI. He said that Indian government’s requests for the extradition of economic offenders have been acted upon earlier as well, and gave the example of Rajiv Saxena, Christian Michel, and Deepak Talwar to bring home his point. “All these economic offenders ran away as soon as the BJP came to power at the Centre under the leadership of Narendra Modi. They knew that they won’t be spared by the BJP government. Till the time Congress was in power, they knew that their loot will continue,” he said. “I want to ask the Congress leaders—What is their relationship with Nirav Modi? One day Rahul Gandhi goes to a programme organised by Nirav Modi, and next day he gets a loan from the Allahabad Bank,” Javadekar said. Union Minister Javadekar’s reaction comes in response to the reports in British media that Nirav Modi is living in London. The British newspaper story reveals that Modi has also started a new diamond business in Soho. The newspaper headlined its piece—‘Exclusive: India’s most wanted man Nirav Modi—accused of £1.5 billion fraud—living openly in London.’ The video shows Nirav Modi sporting a handle-bar moustache and wearing an expensive jacket, repeatedly saying “no comments” to a series of questions put to him by the newspaper’s reporter, including whether he has sought asylum in the United Kingdom. Modi is the subject of an extradition request by India, along with an Interpol Red Corner Notice issued for the PNB scam accused. He is the prime accused in Rs 13,000 crore PNB fraud, along with his uncle Mehul Choksi, who has got the citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda. Modi and Choksi left India in January last year before the PNB scam was exposed.The duo has not returned to India despite repeated summons from the probe agencies and courts to be put on trial. “Journalists of The Telegraph managed to track down Nirav Modi. Why was the Modi Govt unable to do so? Who is Modi trying to protect? Himself, Nirav Modi or the people who let him escape?" the Congress tweeted on its official handle.

Congress is happy seeing Nirav Modi in London: Prakash Javadekar

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