A radio-collared tigress was found dead in Madhya Pradesh's Panna Tiger Reserve, a senior forest official said on Sunday.&nbsp;

This is the fourth tiger death reported from the state in 10 days.&nbsp;

The carcass of the tigress, identified as P-213 (32), was found on Saturday in Gahrighat range of the Panna Tiger Reserve, located over 350 km from Bhopal, the official said.&nbsp;

The tigress was spotted with swelling in its left leg on May 12, he said, adding the feline was then tranquilised and later released after being provided medical treatment.&nbsp;

On Saturday, forest officials reached the spot after getting information about the carcass. They did not find any illegal activity there, the official said.&nbsp;

The tigress seems to have died of natural causes, he said.&nbsp;

After the autopsy, the carcass was disposed of as per guidelines of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), he added.&nbsp;

Earlier, the decomposed carcass of a tiger was found in a buffer zone of the Bandhavgarh reserve in MP on Friday.&nbsp;

On May 8, a tiger was found dead in the state's Kanha Tiger Reserve.&nbsp;

Besides, a dead sub-adult tiger (aged between 18 and 24 months) was found floating in a canal of an inter-state water project in Balaghat's Waraseoni tehsil on May 7, officials said.&nbsp;

Madhya Pradesh is home to a number of tiger reserves, including Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Pench, Satpura and Panna.&nbsp;

The state had regained the top position in the 2018 census with a population of 526 tigers. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A radio-collared tigress was found dead in Madhya Pradesh's Panna Tiger Reserve, a senior forest official said on Sunday. This is the fourth tiger death reported from the state in 10 days.

A radio-collared tigress was found dead in Madhya Pradesh's Panna Tiger Reserve, a senior forest official said on Sunday. This is the fourth tiger death reported from the state in 10 days. The carcass of the tigress, identified as P-213 (32), was found on Saturday in Gahrighat range of the Panna Tiger Reserve, located over 350 km from Bhopal, the official said. The tigress was spotted with swelling in its left leg on May 12, he said, adding the feline was then tranquilised and later released after being provided medical treatment. On Saturday, forest officials reached the spot after getting information about the carcass. They did not find any illegal activity there, the official said. The tigress seems to have died of natural causes, he said. After the autopsy, the carcass was disposed of as per guidelines of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), he added. Earlier, the decomposed carcass of a tiger was found in a buffer zone of the Bandhavgarh reserve in MP on Friday. On May 8, a tiger was found dead in the state's Kanha Tiger Reserve. Besides, a dead sub-adult tiger (aged between 18 and 24 months) was found floating in a canal of an inter-state water project in Balaghat's Waraseoni tehsil on May 7, officials said. Madhya Pradesh is home to a number of tiger reserves, including Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Pench, Satpura and Panna. The state had regained the top position in the 2018 census with a population of 526 tigers. (With inputs from agencies)

MP: Tigress found dead in Panna reserve; 4th death in 10 days 

In an attention-grabbing gesture after the speaker banned private security guards from all parties, a Tunisian MP took her seat in parliament wearing a motorcycle crash&nbsp;helmet and a bulletproof vest. Some of the guards had been accused of assault. &nbsp;

Abir Moussi is a senior member of the secular Free Destourian party, known by its French acronym PDL. Moussi is a lawyer and supporter of the autocratic former president Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali, who was ousted in Tunisia’s 2011 uprising.&nbsp;

Moussi was seen sitting in parliament with a picture of Ben Ali’s predecessor, Habib Bourguiba.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi said, Tunisia will seek a $4 billion loan programme from the International Monetary Fund, saying politicians faced a 'last opportunity' to save the economy.&nbsp;

Mechichi said he expected talks to last about two months and had 'confidence' Tunisia could secure financial support to help it through an economic crisis that has been aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

"All efforts must be unified in Tunisia because we consider that we have reached the last opportunity and we must use it to save the economy," he said in an interview.&nbsp;

He said he wanted a three-year loan programme and added that details of an agreement with powerful labour unions, seen as vital to unlock foreign funding, were still being finalised.&nbsp;

The finance minister and central bank governor will visit the United States next week to start the negotiations, Mechichi said, and he will also go there when a deal is in place.&nbsp;

He said Tunisia would rationalise rather than cut subsidies and said it was considering sales of minority stock it holds in some businesses to raise funds for investment in the most important publicly owned companies.&nbsp;

(With input from agencies)&nbsp;

In an attention-grabbing gesture after the speaker banned private security guards from all parties, a Tunisian MP took her seat in parliament wearing a motorcycle crash helmet and a bulletproof vest.

In an attention-grabbing gesture after the speaker banned private security guards from all parties, a Tunisian MP took her seat in parliament wearing a motorcycle crash helmet and a bulletproof vest. Some of the guards had been accused of assault. Abir Moussi is a senior member of the secular Free Destourian party, known by its French acronym PDL. Moussi is a lawyer and supporter of the autocratic former president Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali, who was ousted in Tunisia’s 2011 uprising. Moussi was seen sitting in parliament with a picture of Ben Ali’s predecessor, Habib Bourguiba. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi said, Tunisia will seek a $4 billion loan programme from the International Monetary Fund, saying politicians faced a 'last opportunity' to save the economy. Mechichi said he expected talks to last about two months and had 'confidence' Tunisia could secure financial support to help it through an economic crisis that has been aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic. "All efforts must be unified in Tunisia because we consider that we have reached the last opportunity and we must use it to save the economy," he said in an interview. He said he wanted a three-year loan programme and added that details of an agreement with powerful labour unions, seen as vital to unlock foreign funding, were still being finalised. The finance minister and central bank governor will visit the United States next week to start the negotiations, Mechichi said, and he will also go there when a deal is in place. He said Tunisia would rationalise rather than cut subsidies and said it was considering sales of minority stock it holds in some businesses to raise funds for investment in the most important publicly owned companies. (With input from agencies)

After her guards banned, Tunisian MP wears helmet, bulletproof vest in parliament  

As a newborn, Fawzia Koofi was left to die in the sun. As a lawmaker, she survived 2 assassination attempts. Today, she is negotiating peace with the Taliban. This International Women's Day, Palki Sharma brings you an exclusive conversation with Koofi.

The Interview: Story of Fawzia Koofi, Afghan MP and Peace Negotiator

Indian-Canadian MP Ramesh Singh Sangha has hit out at few Sikhs MPs in the Canadian Parliament for protecting pro-Khalistanis, who are spewing venom against India and interfering in the country's internal affairs.&nbsp;

In his virtual speech in Parliament on Wednesday, Sangha said, "I am a proud Sikh by birth. Like Sikhs in Canada, I am not a Khalistani extremist or a sympathiser. However, there are few Sikhs in Canada as well as in this House (Parliament)."&nbsp;

While slamming the extremist elements, Sangha mentioned Canada's Intelligence Report 2018 in which 'Sikh (Khalistani) Extremism' was used initially. The Canadian MP also said, he and other members of the Sikh community were grateful as the government took away the word 'Sikh' from the report but it was shameful on part of some Sikh MPs and ministers that pressurised the government to remove the word 'Khalistan' from the report."&nbsp;

Furthermore, Sangha said that some Sikhs including MPs pressurised to remove the phrase 'Khalistani Extremism', thus compromising the security of Canada.&nbsp;

The 2018 Public Report on the 'Terrorist Threat to Canada' raised serious concerns over the grooming of pro-Khalistani outfits in Canada, who are also indulged in anti-India activities.&nbsp;

The report said, "Some individuals in Canada continue to support violent means to establish an independent state within India. These violent activities have fallen since their height during the 1982-1993 period when individuals and groups conducted numerous terrorist attacks. The 1985 Air India bombing, which killed 331 people, remains the deadliest terrorist plot ever launched in Canada".&nbsp;

"While attacks around the world in support of this movement have declined, support for the extreme ideologies of such groups remains. For example, in Canada, two organisations, Babbar Khalsa International and the International Sikh Youth Federation have been identified as being associated with terrorism and remain listed terrorist entities under the Criminal Code".&nbsp;

Sangha said that Sikh MPs in Canada are working to protect these extremists. "Their hidden agenda was to camouflage all the names from long-time links to the movement, even their own near and dear ones", he said in his virtual speech.&nbsp;

"Shame on them for pandering to extremists in Canada! History will not forgive them," said the Indian-Canadian MP. Ramesh Singh Sangha was serving his second term as a Liberal MP in Canadian Parliament but recently removed from the party due to the blunt criticism of his own government in terms of accommodating 'Khalistani Elements' in the government.&nbsp;

Indian-Canadian MP Ramesh Singh Sangha has hit out at few Sikhs MPs in the Canadian Parliament for protecting pro-Khalistanis, who are spewing venom against India and interfering in the country's internal affairs.

Indian-Canadian MP Ramesh Singh Sangha has hit out at few Sikhs MPs in the Canadian Parliament for protecting pro-Khalistanis, who are spewing venom against India and interfering in the country's internal affairs. In his virtual speech in Parliament on Wednesday, Sangha said, "I am a proud Sikh by birth. Like Sikhs in Canada, I am not a Khalistani extremist or a sympathiser. However, there are few Sikhs in Canada as well as in this House (Parliament)." While slamming the extremist elements, Sangha mentioned Canada's Intelligence Report 2018 in which 'Sikh (Khalistani) Extremism' was used initially. The Canadian MP also said, he and other members of the Sikh community were grateful as the government took away the word 'Sikh' from the report but it was shameful on part of some Sikh MPs and ministers that pressurised the government to remove the word 'Khalistan' from the report." Furthermore, Sangha said that some Sikhs including MPs pressurised to remove the phrase 'Khalistani Extremism', thus compromising the security of Canada. The 2018 Public Report on the 'Terrorist Threat to Canada' raised serious concerns over the grooming of pro-Khalistani outfits in Canada, who are also indulged in anti-India activities. The report said, "Some individuals in Canada continue to support violent means to establish an independent state within India. These violent activities have fallen since their height during the 1982-1993 period when individuals and groups conducted numerous terrorist attacks. The 1985 Air India bombing, which killed 331 people, remains the deadliest terrorist plot ever launched in Canada". "While attacks around the world in support of this movement have declined, support for the extreme ideologies of such groups remains. For example, in Canada, two organisations, Babbar Khalsa International and the International Sikh Youth Federation have been identified as being associated with terrorism and remain listed terrorist entities under the Criminal Code". Sangha said that Sikh MPs in Canada are working to protect these extremists. "Their hidden agenda was to camouflage all the names from long-time links to the movement, even their own near and dear ones", he said in his virtual speech. "Shame on them for pandering to extremists in Canada! History will not forgive them," said the Indian-Canadian MP. Ramesh Singh Sangha was serving his second term as a Liberal MP in Canadian Parliament but recently removed from the party due to the blunt criticism of his own government in terms of accommodating 'Khalistani Elements' in the government.

Sikh MP accuses Canadian Parliament of accommodating Khalistanis

Harsimrat Badal walked out of Lok Sabha this evening when the House was taking up discussion on the Farmers’ Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020,

Indian lawmaker Harsimrat Badal resigns from Union Cabinet in protest against farm Bills

The central government on Monday ruled that in order to fight the epidemic Coronavirus spreading in the country, the salaries of members of parliament and central cabinet ministers for one year will now be cut by 30%. Union Minister Prakash Javadekar informed that the Union Cabinet has approved an Ordinance amending the Members of Parliament Act, 1954 which reduce Members' salary, allowances and pension by 30% w.e.f. April 1 for a year.

India's President, VP, States' Governors voluntarily decide to take a pay cut to fight COVID-19

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath on Friday held a discussion on floor test with Governor Lalji Tandon amid the political turmoil and accused the Bharatiya Janata Party of horse-trading. He also requested the Governor to make efforts for the release of the MLAs allegedly held in captivity in Bengaluru by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/madhya-pradesh-crisis-19-congress-mlas-resign-after-scindia-quits-party-285438">Madhya Pradesh crisis: 19 Congress MLAs resign after Scindia quits party</a>

While speaking to media after the meeting, he said, "Floor test will happen on Governor's address and budget but it is only possible when 22 MLAs are freed from captivity.

"Notably, during the meeting, CM Nath also handed a letter to the Governor on the same and told him that the BJP on March 8, 2020, arranged three chartered aircraft to whisk away 19 MLAs of the Congress Party to Bengaluru and accused the party of horse-trading.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/congress-loses-jyotiraditya-scindia-perhaps-madhya-pradesh-as-well-285795">Congress loses Jyotiraditya Scindia, perhaps Madhya Pradesh as well</a>

"I`m constrained to point out the immoral, unethical and illegal acts of Bharatiya Janta Party in Madhya Pradesh. The very edifice of democracy is in danger," the letter read.

"As a responsible leader of Indian National Congress, I invite and would welcome a Floor Test of my government in the forthcoming session of Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly already notified from 16th March 2020, on a date fixed by the Speaker."

"We assure the people of Madhya Pradesh that we will not leave any stone unturned to ensure the triumph of democracy and the legislative process, to uphold the Constitution and the values enshrined therein," the letter read.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-ridicules-jyotiraditya-scindia-on-twitter-calls-him-a-greedy-politician-285548">Congress ridicules Jyotiraditya Scindia on twitter, calls him a greedy politician</a>

"Since then these 19 MLAs, of whom six MLAs are Cabinet Ministers are incommunicado in a resort arranged by BJP. Nobody is allowed access and/or any sort of communication with the 19 captives MLAs," the letter read.

The Chief Minister also pointed out at the BJP`s act of handing over the resignations of legislatures on behalf of the missing Congress MLAs and called it the "entire conspiracy" and "illegal actions."

"To utter shock, Senior Leaders of BJP reached the Speaker`s residence at about 05:30 p.m. on 10th of March 2020 (day of Holi) to handover 19 resignation letters allegedly of these Congress MIAs.

None of the 19 MLAs were present to tender resignation at Speaker's residence.

&nbsp;In a most unusual act and/or conduct, the resignation of 19 Congress MLAs are submitted by leaders of BJP and not by MLAs themselves. This demonstrates the complicity of BJP leaders in the entire conspiracy and illegal actions."

19 Congress MLAs, including six state ministers from Madhya Pradesh, who were believed to be the&nbsp;supporters of Jyotiraditya Scindia, tendered their resignation from the Assembly on Tuesday after Jyotiraditya Scindhia resigned from the party.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath on Friday held a discussion on floor test with Governor Lalji Tandon amid the political turmoil and accused the Bharatiya Janata Party of horse-trading.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath on Friday held a discussion on floor test with Governor Lalji Tandon amid the political turmoil and accused the Bharatiya Janata Party of horse-trading. He also requested the Governor to make efforts for the release of the MLAs allegedly held in captivity in Bengaluru by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Also read: Madhya Pradesh crisis: 19 Congress MLAs resign after Scindia quits party While speaking to media after the meeting, he said, "Floor test will happen on Governor's address and budget but it is only possible when 22 MLAs are freed from captivity. "Notably, during the meeting, CM Nath also handed a letter to the Governor on the same and told him that the BJP on March 8, 2020, arranged three chartered aircraft to whisk away 19 MLAs of the Congress Party to Bengaluru and accused the party of horse-trading. Also Read: Congress loses Jyotiraditya Scindia, perhaps Madhya Pradesh as well "I`m constrained to point out the immoral, unethical and illegal acts of Bharatiya Janta Party in Madhya Pradesh. The very edifice of democracy is in danger," the letter read. "As a responsible leader of Indian National Congress, I invite and would welcome a Floor Test of my government in the forthcoming session of Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly already notified from 16th March 2020, on a date fixed by the Speaker." "We assure the people of Madhya Pradesh that we will not leave any stone unturned to ensure the triumph of democracy and the legislative process, to uphold the Constitution and the values enshrined therein," the letter read. Also Read: Congress ridicules Jyotiraditya Scindia on twitter, calls him a greedy politician "Since then these 19 MLAs, of whom six MLAs are Cabinet Ministers are incommunicado in a resort arranged by BJP. Nobody is allowed access and/or any sort of communication with the 19 captives MLAs," the letter read. The Chief Minister also pointed out at the BJP`s act of handing over the resignations of legislatures on behalf of the missing Congress MLAs and called it the "entire conspiracy" and "illegal actions." "To utter shock, Senior Leaders of BJP reached the Speaker`s residence at about 05:30 p.m. on 10th of March 2020 (day of Holi) to handover 19 resignation letters allegedly of these Congress MIAs. None of the 19 MLAs were present to tender resignation at Speaker's residence. In a most unusual act and/or conduct, the resignation of 19 Congress MLAs are submitted by leaders of BJP and not by MLAs themselves. This demonstrates the complicity of BJP leaders in the entire conspiracy and illegal actions." 19 Congress MLAs, including six state ministers from Madhya Pradesh, who were believed to be the supporters of Jyotiraditya Scindia, tendered their resignation from the Assembly on Tuesday after Jyotiraditya Scindhia resigned from the party.

Kamal Nath discusses floor test with governor amid MP government crisis

The telltale signs were visible to all, except the Congress leadership which was either unable to read the writing on the wall or lived in a denial mode. Prising out the wicket of Jyotiraditya Scindia is a major victory for the country’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as he was one of the very few leaders within the Congress party who could swing things in the party’s favour as seen during the last elections in Madhya Pradesh about 15 months ago. Scindia had played a key role in snatching the win from the BJP which had a 15-year uninterrupted run in the crucial state.

If Scindia has walked out on the Congress, the blame squarely lies with the party which mysteriously failed to accommodate him, who was a close confidante of Rahul Gandhi, in a manner which was due to him. He had high hopes that the party could reward him with the chief ministership of the state, which ultimately went to Kamal Nath who commanded the support of a larger number of elected legislators in comparison to about two dozen MLAs who were rooting for Scindia. Though a temporary truce was brought about by Rahul Gandhi after days of intense deliberations, Scindia felt sidelined as he was neither given the presidentship of the state unit of the party nor a berth in Rajya Sabha.

The Congress has not only lost Scindia, but there are chances the party losing out the state to the BJP as well. It remains to be seen how many of the 22 Congress legislators who resigned return to the party as not all of them seem to happy with Scindia’s decision to join the BJP. But as things stand today, it is unlikely that the Congress will be able to weather the storm. After netting Scindia, it will not be that difficult for the BJP to catch some small fish who were not part of the Kamal Nath cabinet to switch sides after the fall of the government.

Even though some of the 22 Congress legislators decide to return to the party fold, the strength of the house will get significantly reduced giving an edge to the BJP which has 107 MLAs. The Congress had seven more MLAs than the BJP besides the support of two MLAs of Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and one MLA of Samajwadi Party before the revolt. So, all eyes will be on the rebel Congress MLAs and more importantly the role of the Speaker. The BJP would like the rebel Congress MLAs to tender their resignation to the Speaker first so as to bring down the Kamal Nath government to escape the Anti-Defection Law. 
 
Once the Congress loses power in the truncated assembly following the acceptance of the resignation of the rebel party legislators by the Speaker, the BJP can move fast to stake its claim as it would have the magic number to form the government. The rebel Congress MLAs can be accommodated by the BJP later when they would be allowed to contest fresh elections in bypolls that would have to be held in a few months from now. In any case, it would be naïve to think that BJP strategists would have been eyeing only the disgruntled Scindia.

There is an urgent need of retrospection for the Congress if it fancies any chances of revival, which at present looks very gloomy. In the past, Congress has lost several leaders who went on to chart their independent course after coming out of their parent party and are doing well as regional leaders. And the BJP has been successfully tapping on the performers of the Congress who were denied their rightful due. In the recent memory, one such sulking leader was Himanta Biswa Sarma of Assam who not only plotted the fall of the Congress but helped the BJP to come to power in the state as well as several other states in the North-east. &nbsp;

In Jyotiraditya Scindia, the Congress has lost a performer, an orator and above all a charismatic leader who could steer the ship of the party which is sinking rapidly.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The telltale signs were visible to all, except the Congress leadership which was either unable to read the writing on the wall or lived in a denial mode. Prising out the wicket of Jyotiraditya Scindia is a major victory for the country’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as he was one of the very few leaders within the Congress party who could swing things in the party’s favour as seen during the last elections in Madhya Pradesh about 15 months ago.

The telltale signs were visible to all, except the Congress leadership which was either unable to read the writing on the wall or lived in a denial mode. Prising out the wicket of Jyotiraditya Scindia is a major victory for the country’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as he was one of the very few leaders within the Congress party who could swing things in the party’s favour as seen during the last elections in Madhya Pradesh about 15 months ago. Scindia had played a key role in snatching the win from the BJP which had a 15-year uninterrupted run in the crucial state. If Scindia has walked out on the Congress, the blame squarely lies with the party which mysteriously failed to accommodate him, who was a close confidante of Rahul Gandhi, in a manner which was due to him. He had high hopes that the party could reward him with the chief ministership of the state, which ultimately went to Kamal Nath who commanded the support of a larger number of elected legislators in comparison to about two dozen MLAs who were rooting for Scindia. Though a temporary truce was brought about by Rahul Gandhi after days of intense deliberations, Scindia felt sidelined as he was neither given the presidentship of the state unit of the party nor a berth in Rajya Sabha. The Congress has not only lost Scindia, but there are chances the party losing out the state to the BJP as well. It remains to be seen how many of the 22 Congress legislators who resigned return to the party as not all of them seem to happy with Scindia’s decision to join the BJP. But as things stand today, it is unlikely that the Congress will be able to weather the storm. After netting Scindia, it will not be that difficult for the BJP to catch some small fish who were not part of the Kamal Nath cabinet to switch sides after the fall of the government. Even though some of the 22 Congress legislators decide to return to the party fold, the strength of the house will get significantly reduced giving an edge to the BJP which has 107 MLAs. The Congress had seven more MLAs than the BJP besides the support of two MLAs of Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and one MLA of Samajwadi Party before the revolt. So, all eyes will be on the rebel Congress MLAs and more importantly the role of the Speaker. The BJP would like the rebel Congress MLAs to tender their resignation to the Speaker first so as to bring down the Kamal Nath government to escape the Anti-Defection Law. Once the Congress loses power in the truncated assembly following the acceptance of the resignation of the rebel party legislators by the Speaker, the BJP can move fast to stake its claim as it would have the magic number to form the government. The rebel Congress MLAs can be accommodated by the BJP later when they would be allowed to contest fresh elections in bypolls that would have to be held in a few months from now. In any case, it would be naïve to think that BJP strategists would have been eyeing only the disgruntled Scindia. There is an urgent need of retrospection for the Congress if it fancies any chances of revival, which at present looks very gloomy. In the past, Congress has lost several leaders who went on to chart their independent course after coming out of their parent party and are doing well as regional leaders. And the BJP has been successfully tapping on the performers of the Congress who were denied their rightful due. In the recent memory, one such sulking leader was Himanta Biswa Sarma of Assam who not only plotted the fall of the Congress but helped the BJP to come to power in the state as well as several other states in the North-east. In Jyotiraditya Scindia, the Congress has lost a performer, an orator and above all a charismatic leader who could steer the ship of the party which is sinking rapidly. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Congress loses Jyotiraditya Scindia, perhaps Madhya Pradesh as well

Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson, Raveesh Kumar shared some details of EU MPs visit to J&K.

Raveesh Kumar speaks on EU MPs visit to J&K

Tens of thousands of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-in-the-balance-as-british-members-of-parliament-hold-knife-edge-vote-256892">pro-EU protesters from across Britain</a> wielding banners, placards and flags converged on parliament on Saturday, as MPs debated the government's Brexit deal.

Beneath largely clear blue skies, demonstrators rallied near Hyde Park in central London before marching to Westminster to call for a second referendum on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-boris-johnson-scrambles-to-sell-brexit-deal-to-mps-256702">Britain's planned EU departure</a>.

Walking behind a pink banner proclaiming "together for the final say", they chanted: "What do we want? People's vote! When do we want it? Now."

"The first referendum was jumping on a train without a destination," said Douglas Hill, 35, from Oxford, south-central England, with his Estonian wife and their baby daughter.

"Now that we have a destination, we need to have a second referendum."

Another attendee, Theodor Howe, a 20-year-old student in Dundee, eastern Scotland, conceded another poll could be divisive but insisted it was still necessary.

"People should have a say in what is going to happen," he told AFP, expressing hope that MPs reject Johnson's deal and that he is forced to ask Brussels for another delay.

Politicians including John McDonnell, from the main opposition Labour party, and London Mayor Sadiq Khan, were due to address the crowds.

Organisers from the People's Vote pressure group laid on 172 buses to bring people to the British capital, with the cost covered by supporters from sport, business and entertainment, it said.

Former prime ministers John Major, a Conservative, and Tony Blair, of Labour, feature in a film set to be broadcast to the crowds once they arrive in Parliament Square.

"Whatever is the outcome, no deal or bad deal, it should not pass without the final say resting with the people," they said in a statement Friday.

London Mayor Khan was among those leading the crowd as it snaked its way towards parliament, which was holding its first Saturday sitting since the 1982 Falklands War as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-deal-new-way-forward-for-britain-and-eu-pm-boris-johnson-256870">British prime minister bids</a> to win MPs backing.

The protesters unveiled an effigy depicting Johnson as a puppet operated by his chief advisor Dominic Cummings -- a highly divisive figure who led the 2016 campaign to leave the EU.

A smaller counter-protest by Brexit supporters draped in Britain's union flag was also staged in Westminster, with rival demonstrators verbally sparring with each other in the shadow in parliament.

Tens of thousands of pro-EU protesters from across Britain wielding banners, placards and flags converged on parliament on Saturday, as MPs debated the government's Brexit deal.

Tens of thousands of pro-EU protesters from across Britain wielding banners, placards and flags converged on parliament on Saturday, as MPs debated the government's Brexit deal. Beneath largely clear blue skies, demonstrators rallied near Hyde Park in central London before marching to Westminster to call for a second referendum on Britain's planned EU departure. Walking behind a pink banner proclaiming "together for the final say", they chanted: "What do we want? People's vote! When do we want it? Now." "The first referendum was jumping on a train without a destination," said Douglas Hill, 35, from Oxford, south-central England, with his Estonian wife and their baby daughter. "Now that we have a destination, we need to have a second referendum." Another attendee, Theodor Howe, a 20-year-old student in Dundee, eastern Scotland, conceded another poll could be divisive but insisted it was still necessary. "People should have a say in what is going to happen," he told AFP, expressing hope that MPs reject Johnson's deal and that he is forced to ask Brussels for another delay. Politicians including John McDonnell, from the main opposition Labour party, and London Mayor Sadiq Khan, were due to address the crowds. Organisers from the People's Vote pressure group laid on 172 buses to bring people to the British capital, with the cost covered by supporters from sport, business and entertainment, it said. Former prime ministers John Major, a Conservative, and Tony Blair, of Labour, feature in a film set to be broadcast to the crowds once they arrive in Parliament Square. "Whatever is the outcome, no deal or bad deal, it should not pass without the final say resting with the people," they said in a statement Friday. London Mayor Khan was among those leading the crowd as it snaked its way towards parliament, which was holding its first Saturday sitting since the 1982 Falklands War as the British prime minister bids to win MPs backing. The protesters unveiled an effigy depicting Johnson as a puppet operated by his chief advisor Dominic Cummings -- a highly divisive figure who led the 2016 campaign to leave the EU. A smaller counter-protest by Brexit supporters draped in Britain's union flag was also staged in Westminster, with rival demonstrators verbally sparring with each other in the shadow in parliament.

Anti-Brexit activists march to parliament as Members of Parliament debate deal

In a surprise development, two Bharatiya Janta Party MLAs, Narayan Tripathi and Sharad Kaul on Wednesday backed the Kamal Nath Government during voting on Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly on Wednesday.

The BJP MLAs have now been taken to an undisclosed location and they will attend a dinner with Chief Minister Kamal Nath tonight.

The development comes on a day the Leader of the Opposition in Madhya Pradesh Assembly and senior BJP leader Gopal Bhargava claimed that once they receive direction from their party`s top command, the Congress government would not last 24 hours.

Attacking the BJP after the voting, Chief Minister Kamal Nath said, "Everyday BJP says we are a minority government which could fall any day. In today's voting (on criminal law amendment), two BJP MLAs voted in favour of our Government".

He asserted that Wednesday`s voting proved that the Congress government is a majority government.&nbsp;

"Today`s voting was not just for the bill but it was to prove the majority of the government. Even two BJP MLAs have supported Congress today. I welcome their decision, they listened to their conscience today. The 122 votes polled in favour of the bill proves that the Congress government is a majority government," Nath said.

"Everyday they (BJP) used to say that they have 8-10 MLAs, Where were they today? We have the support of Bahujan Samaj Party, Samajwadi Party and the independent MLAs. Today, BJP`s false propaganda is exposed."CM added.

The MLAs also told the media that it was a sort of "homecoming" for them.

On Wednesday, Congress and BJP got into a scuffle in Madhya Pradesh Assembly after Bhargava claimed that if they receive direction by his party`s top brass, the government would not last even for 24 hours.

The Chief Minister responded by saying that if needed, the Opposition can move a no-confidence motion."Your number 1 and number 2 are intelligent, that`s why they are not giving an order. If you wish, you can move no-confidence motion (Aapke oopar wale number 1 aur 2 samajhdar hain, isliye aadesh nahi de rahe hain. Aap chahen to avishwas prastaav le aayen," Nath retorted.

The Madhya Pradesh political developments come against the backdrop of the defeat suffered by the Congress-JDS government during the trust vote in Karnataka Assembly on Tuesday.

After the trust vote, BJP leaders had claimed that the situation of Madhya Pradesh government was even worse than the recently ousted Congress-JDS government in Karnataka.&nbsp;

In a surprise development, two Bharatiya Janta Party MLAs, Narayan Tripathi and Sharad Kaul on Wednesday backed the Kamal Nath Government during voting on Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly on Wednesday.

In a surprise development, two Bharatiya Janta Party MLAs, Narayan Tripathi and Sharad Kaul on Wednesday backed the Kamal Nath Government during voting on Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly on Wednesday. The BJP MLAs have now been taken to an undisclosed location and they will attend a dinner with Chief Minister Kamal Nath tonight. The development comes on a day the Leader of the Opposition in Madhya Pradesh Assembly and senior BJP leader Gopal Bhargava claimed that once they receive direction from their party`s top command, the Congress government would not last 24 hours. Attacking the BJP after the voting, Chief Minister Kamal Nath said, "Everyday BJP says we are a minority government which could fall any day. In today's voting (on criminal law amendment), two BJP MLAs voted in favour of our Government". He asserted that Wednesday`s voting proved that the Congress government is a majority government. "Today`s voting was not just for the bill but it was to prove the majority of the government. Even two BJP MLAs have supported Congress today. I welcome their decision, they listened to their conscience today. The 122 votes polled in favour of the bill proves that the Congress government is a majority government," Nath said. "Everyday they (BJP) used to say that they have 8-10 MLAs, Where were they today? We have the support of Bahujan Samaj Party, Samajwadi Party and the independent MLAs. Today, BJP`s false propaganda is exposed."CM added. The MLAs also told the media that it was a sort of "homecoming" for them. On Wednesday, Congress and BJP got into a scuffle in Madhya Pradesh Assembly after Bhargava claimed that if they receive direction by his party`s top brass, the government would not last even for 24 hours. The Chief Minister responded by saying that if needed, the Opposition can move a no-confidence motion."Your number 1 and number 2 are intelligent, that`s why they are not giving an order. If you wish, you can move no-confidence motion (Aapke oopar wale number 1 aur 2 samajhdar hain, isliye aadesh nahi de rahe hain. Aap chahen to avishwas prastaav le aayen," Nath retorted. The Madhya Pradesh political developments come against the backdrop of the defeat suffered by the Congress-JDS government during the trust vote in Karnataka Assembly on Tuesday. After the trust vote, BJP leaders had claimed that the situation of Madhya Pradesh government was even worse than the recently ousted Congress-JDS government in Karnataka.

Madhya Pradesh: Two BJP MLAs vote in favour of Congress government on an official bill

BJP MP from Kota, Om Birla has been elected as the Speaker of the 17th Lok Sabha. Prime Minister Narendra Modi a while ago had moved motion to choose Om Birla as Lok Sabha speaker. Watch this video to know more.

Lok Sabha: Om Birla takes over as speaker

The BJP on Monday claimed 95 per cent of the farm loan beneficiaries in Madhya Pradesh have got benefits of up to mere Rs 15,000 and not to the tune of Rs 2 lakh as claimed by the ruling Congress.

The main opposition party said not a single farmer has got loan waiver benefit of Rs 2 lakh as announced under the scheme by the Congress government, which assumed office in December last year.

Addressing a press conference here, BJP leader Narottam Mishra said, "95 per cent farmers covered under the farm loan waiver scheme have got benefits of only up to Rs 15,000.

"Not a single farmer in the state has got the benefit of Rs 2 lakh as announced by the Congress.

"Congress president Rahul Gandhi had announced that he would change the CM if he failed to implement the loan waiver scheme within 10 days of coming to power.

"Now, the states Congress government itself has accepted in advertisements published in newspapers that the second phase of the loan waiver scheme is being launched now," he said.

The state government has failed to implement this scheme even after six months. Now, Rahul should change the chief minister for failing to waive loans within 10 days (as promised earlier), said Mishra, a former minister.

Chief Minister Kamal Nath completed six months in office on Monday. In run up to the November Assembly polls, Gandhi had announced to write-off individual agriculture loans of up to Rs 2 lakh within 10 days of his party assuming power.

In early May, Nath had said crop loans of over 21 lakh farmers have been cleared so far by his government.

Mishra also accused the Nath government of not submitting the complete list of farmers to the Centre for providing them financial assistance of Rs 6,000 per annum under the Kisan Nidhi Yojana.

There are 80 lakh registered farmers in Madhya Pradesh, but the state government has provided the list of only 43,000 farmers to the Centre for providing assistance under the Kisan Nidhi Yojana.

"The state government is anti-farmer and creating hindrances in path of extending benefits to cultivators, the BJP leader said. 
 
He said the Congress government has "failed" on every front, including ensuring power supply, curbing crime against women, maintaining law and order and implementing loan waiver, in the last six months.

Instead, the Nath administration is blaming the opposition for the state's problems, he said.

"They are blaming the opposition for power cuts, crime and other issues. They are in the government, who is stopping them from taking action? Mishra asked.

To a question on the stability of the Nath government, being supported by the MLAs of the SP, the BSP and some independent lawmakers, the BJP leader said it will fall on its own.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The BJP on Monday claimed 95 per cent of the farm loan beneficiaries in Madhya Pradesh have got benefits of up to mere Rs 15,000 and not to the tune of Rs 2 lakh as claimed by the ruling Congress.

The BJP on Monday claimed 95 per cent of the farm loan beneficiaries in Madhya Pradesh have got benefits of up to mere Rs 15,000 and not to the tune of Rs 2 lakh as claimed by the ruling Congress. The main opposition party said not a single farmer has got loan waiver benefit of Rs 2 lakh as announced under the scheme by the Congress government, which assumed office in December last year. Addressing a press conference here, BJP leader Narottam Mishra said, "95 per cent farmers covered under the farm loan waiver scheme have got benefits of only up to Rs 15,000. "Not a single farmer in the state has got the benefit of Rs 2 lakh as announced by the Congress. "Congress president Rahul Gandhi had announced that he would change the CM if he failed to implement the loan waiver scheme within 10 days of coming to power. "Now, the states Congress government itself has accepted in advertisements published in newspapers that the second phase of the loan waiver scheme is being launched now," he said. The state government has failed to implement this scheme even after six months. Now, Rahul should change the chief minister for failing to waive loans within 10 days (as promised earlier), said Mishra, a former minister. Chief Minister Kamal Nath completed six months in office on Monday. In run up to the November Assembly polls, Gandhi had announced to write-off individual agriculture loans of up to Rs 2 lakh within 10 days of his party assuming power. In early May, Nath had said crop loans of over 21 lakh farmers have been cleared so far by his government. Mishra also accused the Nath government of not submitting the complete list of farmers to the Centre for providing them financial assistance of Rs 6,000 per annum under the Kisan Nidhi Yojana. There are 80 lakh registered farmers in Madhya Pradesh, but the state government has provided the list of only 43,000 farmers to the Centre for providing assistance under the Kisan Nidhi Yojana. "The state government is anti-farmer and creating hindrances in path of extending benefits to cultivators, the BJP leader said. He said the Congress government has "failed" on every front, including ensuring power supply, curbing crime against women, maintaining law and order and implementing loan waiver, in the last six months. Instead, the Nath administration is blaming the opposition for the state's problems, he said. "They are blaming the opposition for power cuts, crime and other issues. They are in the government, who is stopping them from taking action? Mishra asked. To a question on the stability of the Nath government, being supported by the MLAs of the SP, the BSP and some independent lawmakers, the BJP leader said it will fall on its own.

Madhya Pradesh farmers got benefits of up to Rs 15,000, not Rs 2 lakh: BJP

Congress president Rahul Gandhi today said the Congress may have just 52 MPs in the Lok Sabha but they are strong enough to take on the BJP [which has 303 members]. Speaking at the Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) meeting, Rahul Gandhi said, "We are 52 MPs. I guarantee you that these 52 MPs will fight against BJP every single inch. We are enough to make BJP jump everyday."

52 Congress Lok Sabha MPs enough to make BJP jump everyday, says Rahul Gandhi

Sector assistant engineer, AK Shrivastav was suspended for allegedly carrying the reserve EVM to his residence here.

"The EVM has been seized and the officer has been suspended, further action will be taken on instructions of the higher-ups," SDM, Shivani Rakwar Garg told media on Saturday.

The Election Commission of India has been informed in this regard.

Polling for Guna Lok Sabha seat is scheduled to be held on Sunday during the sixth phase of the ongoing Lok Sabha polls.

Congress heavyweight Jyotiraditya Scindia is contesting from Guna. He is also the incumbent MP from this seat.BJP has fielded KP Yadav from Guna.

The ongoing Lok Sabha polls were scheduled to be held in seven phases.

The first five phases were held on April 11, 18, 23, 29 and May 6.

The sixth and seventh phases of polling are scheduled to be held on May 12 and May 18. The counting of votes will be done on May 23.&nbsp;

Sector assistant engineer, AK Shrivastav was suspended for allegedly carrying the reserve EVM to his residence here. "The EVM has been seized and the officer has been suspended, further action will be taken on instructions of the higher-ups," SDM, Shivani Rakwar Garg told media on Saturday.

Sector assistant engineer, AK Shrivastav was suspended for allegedly carrying the reserve EVM to his residence here. "The EVM has been seized and the officer has been suspended, further action will be taken on instructions of the higher-ups," SDM, Shivani Rakwar Garg told media on Saturday. The Election Commission of India has been informed in this regard. Polling for Guna Lok Sabha seat is scheduled to be held on Sunday during the sixth phase of the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. Congress heavyweight Jyotiraditya Scindia is contesting from Guna. He is also the incumbent MP from this seat.BJP has fielded KP Yadav from Guna. The ongoing Lok Sabha polls were scheduled to be held in seven phases. The first five phases were held on April 11, 18, 23, 29 and May 6. The sixth and seventh phases of polling are scheduled to be held on May 12 and May 18. The counting of votes will be done on May 23.

Madhya Pradesh: Officer suspended for carrying reserve EVM to his residence

The screening of a short film featuring Bhopal BJP Lok Sabha candidate and Malegaon blast accused Pragya Singh Thakur among others was Monday stopped midway here by a team of the Election Commission and local police.

The film, titled 'Bhagwa Aatankwad Bhramjaal' is centred around the Samjhauta Express, Malegaon, Ajmer Dargah and Mecca Masjid blasts and was being shown to journalists here by an organisation called Bharat Vichar Manch (BVM).

Following a complaint by the Congress, a team of EC officials and personnel from MP Nagar police station stopped the screening, said Inspector Manish Rai.

He said the EC had initially given permission to BVM for the show but recalled it after the Congress complained.

A BVM member, who identified himself as Captain Vikas Pandey, said the Mumbai-based producer-director of the film, Rajiv Pandey, wanted to the launch the short film from MP.

He said the BVM was a social organisation and is not connected&nbsp;to the RSS.

Rajiv Pandey said the film would be uploaded on sites like YouTube soon.

'They are free to show the short film after May 12 when elections for Bhopal Lok Sabha seat gets over.

We lodged a model code of conduct violation with the EC and it promptly took action,' MP Congress spokesperson Bhupendra Gupta said.

'The EC has put off the release of a biopic on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the same yardstick should apply to Pragya Thakur as well,' he added.

The short film contends that Thakur and other 'Hindu personalities' were held on 'cooked up' terror charges by the Congress-led UPA government.

Thakur is pitted against senior Congress leader and former chief minister Digvijaya Singh from Bhopal.

The screening of a short film featuring Bhopal BJP Lok Sabha candidate and Malegaon blast accused Pragya Singh Thakur among others was Monday stopped midway here by a team of the Election Commission and local police.

The screening of a short film featuring Bhopal BJP Lok Sabha candidate and Malegaon blast accused Pragya Singh Thakur among others was Monday stopped midway here by a team of the Election Commission and local police. The film, titled 'Bhagwa Aatankwad Bhramjaal' is centred around the Samjhauta Express, Malegaon, Ajmer Dargah and Mecca Masjid blasts and was being shown to journalists here by an organisation called Bharat Vichar Manch (BVM). Following a complaint by the Congress, a team of EC officials and personnel from MP Nagar police station stopped the screening, said Inspector Manish Rai. He said the EC had initially given permission to BVM for the show but recalled it after the Congress complained. A BVM member, who identified himself as Captain Vikas Pandey, said the Mumbai-based producer-director of the film, Rajiv Pandey, wanted to the launch the short film from MP. He said the BVM was a social organisation and is not connected to the RSS. Rajiv Pandey said the film would be uploaded on sites like YouTube soon. 'They are free to show the short film after May 12 when elections for Bhopal Lok Sabha seat gets over. We lodged a model code of conduct violation with the EC and it promptly took action,' MP Congress spokesperson Bhupendra Gupta said. 'The EC has put off the release of a biopic on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the same yardstick should apply to Pragya Thakur as well,' he added. The short film contends that Thakur and other 'Hindu personalities' were held on 'cooked up' terror charges by the Congress-led UPA government. Thakur is pitted against senior Congress leader and former chief minister Digvijaya Singh from Bhopal.

Screening of short film featuring Pragya stopped by Election Commission in Madhya Pradesh

The Members of Parliament in India earn 1,00,000 month salary. But is that all? In this segment of India Election Watch decode what are the perks a Member of Parliament gets.

IEW: The perks of being an Member of Parliament

Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday that in three terms as a member of parliament from Amethi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi has nothing done for his constituency.&nbsp;

Sitharaman made her comments at Zee News's '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-will-remain-out-of-power-for-at-least-5-years-says-amit-shah-207273">India ka DNA</a>' conclave in Delhi. She was in conversation with Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary. &nbsp;

"Amethi is so backward," she said. Nothing has been done for it.&nbsp;

"Smriti Irani, despite losing, has done something for Amethi," Sitharaman added.&nbsp;

Irani, the union minister for textiles, had lost to Rahul in 2014. She will fight him again from there in 2019.&nbsp;

Sitharaman added that Rahul had asked no questions about Amethi in parliament in his three terms as MP.&nbsp;

Sitharaman went on to say that it was because of this — the lack of development in Amethi — that Rahul had chosen to also fight the Lok Sabha polls from Wayanad in Kerala.&nbsp;

He's gone there for "safety", she said.&nbsp;

Chaudhary reminder her at that point that "over 50%" of Wayanad's population is made up of minorities.&nbsp;

Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday that in three terms as a member of parliament from Amethi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi has nothing done for his constituency.

Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday that in three terms as a member of parliament from Amethi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi has nothing done for his constituency. Sitharaman made her comments at Zee News's 'India ka DNA' conclave in Delhi. She was in conversation with Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary. "Amethi is so backward," she said. Nothing has been done for it. "Smriti Irani, despite losing, has done something for Amethi," Sitharaman added. Irani, the union minister for textiles, had lost to Rahul in 2014. She will fight him again from there in 2019. Sitharaman added that Rahul had asked no questions about Amethi in parliament in his three terms as MP. Sitharaman went on to say that it was because of this — the lack of development in Amethi — that Rahul had chosen to also fight the Lok Sabha polls from Wayanad in Kerala. He's gone there for "safety", she said. Chaudhary reminder her at that point that "over 50%" of Wayanad's population is made up of minorities.

In 3 terms as MP, Rahul Gandhi has done nothing for Amethi: Nirmala Sitharaman at 'India ka DNA' conclave

Brexit: No majority for any options after MPs' votes

British MPs to debate on next Brexit move

British MPs could sit long hours and their February holiday may be scrapped as the government races to pass its Brexit legislation before Britain leaves the EU on March 29, Downing Street said Sunday.

Prime Minister Theresa May's government is looking at making the House of Commons sit on more Fridays — which it does not normally do — and extend debating time well into the evening on some days.

It is also "reviewing" the week-long February recess, a Downing Street spokeswoman said.

There are still eight laws the government wants to pass to prepare the statute books for Brexit, covering areas of trade, fisheries, and agriculture, immigration, the environment, and healthcare.

These include any bill needed to implement a divorce deal with the EU, which MPs have yet to agree to.

"We remain committed to ensuring all necessary legislation is in place for exit day on March 29, 2019, and it is important to stress we are confident of meeting that commitment," the spokeswoman said.

"We are aware this is a challenging timetable, so as a precautionary measure we are in preliminary discussions about extending sitting times -- but only if necessary."

She said MPs would have a chance to debate and vote on any decision, adding that the government recognised the need to balance their constituency and family responsibilities.

Andrea Leadsom, the leader of the House of Commons, suggested this week that Brexit could be delayed if necessary by a few weeks to get the bills through.

"I'm absolutely certain that if we needed a couple of extra weeks or something, that that would be feasible," she told the BBC's "Newsnight" programme.

But she added that "with goodwill and a determination, we can still get the legislation through in time".

Meanwhile, officials are looking at whether they might need sweeping powers, including the introduction of martial law, if there is disorder after Brexit, the Sunday Times newspaper reported.

There has been a discussion about using the Civil Contingencies Act 2004, which allows curfews, travel bans and the deployment of the army to quell any social unrest if Britain leaves the EU with no deal.

A separate Downing Street spokeswoman said: "The prime minister has said that there will be the disruption in the event of no deal."

"But as a responsible government, we are taking the appropriate steps to minimise this disruption and ensure the country is prepared."

British MPs could sit long hours and their February holiday may be scrapped as the government races to pass its Brexit legislation before Britain leaves the EU on March 29, Downing Street said Sunday.

British MPs could sit long hours and their February holiday may be scrapped as the government races to pass its Brexit legislation before Britain leaves the EU on March 29, Downing Street said Sunday. Prime Minister Theresa May's government is looking at making the House of Commons sit on more Fridays — which it does not normally do — and extend debating time well into the evening on some days. It is also "reviewing" the week-long February recess, a Downing Street spokeswoman said. There are still eight laws the government wants to pass to prepare the statute books for Brexit, covering areas of trade, fisheries, and agriculture, immigration, the environment, and healthcare. These include any bill needed to implement a divorce deal with the EU, which MPs have yet to agree to. "We remain committed to ensuring all necessary legislation is in place for exit day on March 29, 2019, and it is important to stress we are confident of meeting that commitment," the spokeswoman said. "We are aware this is a challenging timetable, so as a precautionary measure we are in preliminary discussions about extending sitting times -- but only if necessary." She said MPs would have a chance to debate and vote on any decision, adding that the government recognised the need to balance their constituency and family responsibilities. Andrea Leadsom, the leader of the House of Commons, suggested this week that Brexit could be delayed if necessary by a few weeks to get the bills through. "I'm absolutely certain that if we needed a couple of extra weeks or something, that that would be feasible," she told the BBC's "Newsnight" programme. But she added that "with goodwill and a determination, we can still get the legislation through in time". Meanwhile, officials are looking at whether they might need sweeping powers, including the introduction of martial law, if there is disorder after Brexit, the Sunday Times newspaper reported. There has been a discussion about using the Civil Contingencies Act 2004, which allows curfews, travel bans and the deployment of the army to quell any social unrest if Britain leaves the EU with no deal. A separate Downing Street spokeswoman said: "The prime minister has said that there will be the disruption in the event of no deal." "But as a responsible government, we are taking the appropriate steps to minimise this disruption and ensure the country is prepared."

UK government may scrap MPs' holiday to pass Brexit laws

In a major breakthrough in the Vyapam scam, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) gave a clean chit to former Madhya Pradesh Minister Laxmikant Sharma and seven others on Saturday.

The premier investigation agency said that Sharma and the seven others accused were given a clean chit due to lack of evidence in the case.

Furthermore, the CBI had filed a charge sheet against 26 people in connection to the Vyapam scam.

On December 18 last year, a CBI court in Indore had sentenced Manoj, an accused in the case, to five years in prison.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/vyapam-case-court-orders-fir-against-senior-cong-leaders-167973">Vyapam scam</a> is an admission and recruitment fraudulent scheme, beginning in 1995, involving politicians, senior officials and businessmen in the Madhya Pradesh Professional Examination Board (MPPEB).

The admission and recruitment scam that was unearthed in 2013 pertains to alleged irregularities in the PMT-2013 examination conducted by the MPPEB, popularly known as 'Vyapam' (Vyavsayik Pariksha Mandal).&nbsp;

The CBI had filed a charge sheet against 26 people in connection to the Vyapam scam.

In a major breakthrough in the Vyapam scam, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) gave a clean chit to former Madhya Pradesh Minister Laxmikant Sharma and seven others on Saturday. The premier investigation agency said that Sharma and the seven others accused were given a clean chit due to lack of evidence in the case. Furthermore, the CBI had filed a charge sheet against 26 people in connection to the Vyapam scam. On December 18 last year, a CBI court in Indore had sentenced Manoj, an accused in the case, to five years in prison. The Vyapam scam is an admission and recruitment fraudulent scheme, beginning in 1995, involving politicians, senior officials and businessmen in the Madhya Pradesh Professional Examination Board (MPPEB). The admission and recruitment scam that was unearthed in 2013 pertains to alleged irregularities in the PMT-2013 examination conducted by the MPPEB, popularly known as 'Vyapam' (Vyavsayik Pariksha Mandal).

Vyapam scam: CBI gives clean chit to former MP minister Laxmikant Sharma and seven others

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath distributed portfolios to his cabinet Friday evening, keeping Public Relations, Industrial Policy and Investment Promotion Department and Employment Department among others with himself, an official said.

Tribal MLA Bala Bachchan, who was minister in the previous Digvijay Singh-led Congress government, was given Home and Jail, while another senior MLA, Tulsi Silawat, got Health, the Public Relations department official said.

Govind Rajput was allocated Revenue and Transport department, while Tarun Bhanot was given the Finance department.

Nath also kept Public Service Management department and the Technical Education with him, he said.

MLA Prabhuram Choudhary, who belongs to a Scheduled Caste community, was given School Education, he said.

Another Digvijay Singh cabinet member, Vijaylaxmi Sadho, got Culture and Medical Education Department.

Hukum Singh Karada, also a minister in the previous Congress government, got Water Resources Development.

Another former senior minister Dr Govind Singh was given Cooperatives and Parliamentary Affairs.

Sajjan Singh Verma, who was Urban Administration Minister in Digvijay Singh government, has got the Public Works Department in Kamal Nath's cabinet, the official said.

Arif Aqueel, the lone Muslim minister, got Minorities and Other Backward Class Welfare, besides Bhopal Gas Relief and Rehabilitation.

Jaivardhan Singh, Digvijay Singh's son, was given Urban Administration Department.

Jaivardhan, 32, is the youngest minister in the cabinet.

Sachin Yadav, 36, younger brother of former state Congress chief and ex-Union minister Arun Yadav, was given Agriculture and Food Processing Department.&nbsp;

Woman minister Imarati Devi was given Women and Child Department.

Pradeep Jaiswal, lone independent MLA in the cabinet, was given Mining, he said.

Umang Singhar was given Forest Department, while Jitu Patwari was allocated Sports and Youth Affairs besides Higher Education Department.

Brijendra Singh Rathore got Commercial Tax, Lakhan Singh Yadav Animal Husbandry, Omkar Markam Scheduled Tribes Welfare, Sukhdeo Panse Public Health Engineering, Harsh Yadav New and Renewable Energy and Cottage and Village Industries, Kamleshwar Patel Panchayat and Rural Development, Lakhan Ghanghoriya Social Justice and SC Welfare.

P C Sharma was given Law and Legislative Affairs, Surendra Singh Baghel Narmada Valley Development and Tourism Department, Pradyumn Singh Tomar Food and Civil Supplies, Mahendra Singh Sisodiya Labour Department and Priyavrat Singh Energy Department, the official said.

Nath, who took oath as the 18th chief minister of Madhya Pradesh on December 17, had expanded his cabinet on December 25 by inducting 28 ministers.&nbsp;

The Congress returned to power in the state after a hiatus of 15 years by ousting the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Though the Congress, with 114 seats, depends on the support of the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Samajwadi Party, which have won two seats and one, respectively, no MLA from these two smaller parties has got a berth in the cabinet.

A five-day session of the newly-elected Assembly is slated to begin from January 7.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath distributed portfolios to his cabinet Friday evening, keeping Public Relations, Industrial Policy and Investment Promotion Department and Employment Department among others with himself, an official said.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath distributed portfolios to his cabinet Friday evening, keeping Public Relations, Industrial Policy and Investment Promotion Department and Employment Department among others with himself, an official said. Tribal MLA Bala Bachchan, who was minister in the previous Digvijay Singh-led Congress government, was given Home and Jail, while another senior MLA, Tulsi Silawat, got Health, the Public Relations department official said. Govind Rajput was allocated Revenue and Transport department, while Tarun Bhanot was given the Finance department. Nath also kept Public Service Management department and the Technical Education with him, he said. MLA Prabhuram Choudhary, who belongs to a Scheduled Caste community, was given School Education, he said. Another Digvijay Singh cabinet member, Vijaylaxmi Sadho, got Culture and Medical Education Department. Hukum Singh Karada, also a minister in the previous Congress government, got Water Resources Development. Another former senior minister Dr Govind Singh was given Cooperatives and Parliamentary Affairs. Sajjan Singh Verma, who was Urban Administration Minister in Digvijay Singh government, has got the Public Works Department in Kamal Nath's cabinet, the official said. Arif Aqueel, the lone Muslim minister, got Minorities and Other Backward Class Welfare, besides Bhopal Gas Relief and Rehabilitation. Jaivardhan Singh, Digvijay Singh's son, was given Urban Administration Department. Jaivardhan, 32, is the youngest minister in the cabinet. Sachin Yadav, 36, younger brother of former state Congress chief and ex-Union minister Arun Yadav, was given Agriculture and Food Processing Department. Woman minister Imarati Devi was given Women and Child Department. Pradeep Jaiswal, lone independent MLA in the cabinet, was given Mining, he said. Umang Singhar was given Forest Department, while Jitu Patwari was allocated Sports and Youth Affairs besides Higher Education Department. Brijendra Singh Rathore got Commercial Tax, Lakhan Singh Yadav Animal Husbandry, Omkar Markam Scheduled Tribes Welfare, Sukhdeo Panse Public Health Engineering, Harsh Yadav New and Renewable Energy and Cottage and Village Industries, Kamleshwar Patel Panchayat and Rural Development, Lakhan Ghanghoriya Social Justice and SC Welfare. P C Sharma was given Law and Legislative Affairs, Surendra Singh Baghel Narmada Valley Development and Tourism Department, Pradyumn Singh Tomar Food and Civil Supplies, Mahendra Singh Sisodiya Labour Department and Priyavrat Singh Energy Department, the official said. Nath, who took oath as the 18th chief minister of Madhya Pradesh on December 17, had expanded his cabinet on December 25 by inducting 28 ministers. The Congress returned to power in the state after a hiatus of 15 years by ousting the Bharatiya Janata Party. Though the Congress, with 114 seats, depends on the support of the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Samajwadi Party, which have won two seats and one, respectively, no MLA from these two smaller parties has got a berth in the cabinet. A five-day session of the newly-elected Assembly is slated to begin from January 7.

Madhya Pradesh CM distributes portfolios; Tarun Bhanot gets finance department

Taking a jibe at the functioning of the newly-formed Congress government in Madhya Pradesh, former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan alleged that the delay in the allocation of portfolios to the ministers is a "matter of concern".

Talking to reporters at his residence, Chouhan said, "I extended my wishes to the new government, but it is a matter of concern the way formation of cabinet was delayed and now portfolio distribution is being delayed."&nbsp;

"We are seeing media reports and various Congress leaders are insisting for particular departments causing delay in the allocation. Quota of different camps (of Congress) was fixed. This delay is historic and never happened in the state," he claimed.

Chouhan said, "It is the chief minister's prerogative to allocate portfolios, but Digvijay ji - veteran Congress leader Digvijay Singh - was replying on such issues claiming this work would be done today."

He said, "Senior Congress MLAs like Bisahulal Singh, KP Singh and others, who don't belong to any group in Congress, failed to get berth."

In a reply to a question, he said the Congress should implement farm loan waiver in accordance to their promise.

"There should be no condition in loan waiver. The farm loan up to Rs 2 lakh, as on November this year end, should be waived," he said.

Asked about the Congress' manifesto promise about 'banning' the RSS Shakhas in government premises, Chouhan said, "Nehru ji (Jawaharlal Nehru) and Indira ji (Indira Gandhi) had also banned, but they had to withdraw. The RSS is the biggest organisation of patriots and honest people."&nbsp;

Taking a jibe at the functioning of the newly-formed Congress government in Madhya Pradesh, former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan alleged that the delay in the allocation of portfolios to the ministers is a "matter of concern".

Taking a jibe at the functioning of the newly-formed Congress government in Madhya Pradesh, former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan alleged that the delay in the allocation of portfolios to the ministers is a "matter of concern". Talking to reporters at his residence, Chouhan said, "I extended my wishes to the new government, but it is a matter of concern the way formation of cabinet was delayed and now portfolio distribution is being delayed." "We are seeing media reports and various Congress leaders are insisting for particular departments causing delay in the allocation. Quota of different camps (of Congress) was fixed. This delay is historic and never happened in the state," he claimed. Chouhan said, "It is the chief minister's prerogative to allocate portfolios, but Digvijay ji - veteran Congress leader Digvijay Singh - was replying on such issues claiming this work would be done today." He said, "Senior Congress MLAs like Bisahulal Singh, KP Singh and others, who don't belong to any group in Congress, failed to get berth." In a reply to a question, he said the Congress should implement farm loan waiver in accordance to their promise. "There should be no condition in loan waiver. The farm loan up to Rs 2 lakh, as on November this year end, should be waived," he said. Asked about the Congress' manifesto promise about 'banning' the RSS Shakhas in government premises, Chouhan said, "Nehru ji (Jawaharlal Nehru) and Indira ji (Indira Gandhi) had also banned, but they had to withdraw. The RSS is the biggest organisation of patriots and honest people."

Delay in portfolio allocation in newly-formed govt is matter of concern: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

The war of words between the BJP and the Congress has intensified ahead of the November 28 polling in Madhya Pradesh with both parties raising a range of issues to attack each other.

While the Congress accused the BJP of raking up the issues of Pakistan and Ram temple to ward off an impending electoral defeat, the ruling party said the main opposition outfit is feeling like a "fish out of water" since it lost power in Madhya Pradesh 15 years ago.

Talking to reporters at Indore Friday, Congress national spokesperson Shakeel Ahmad said the BJP starts taking the name of Pakistan whenever it senses defeat in elections.

It also starts doing politics in the name of Lord Rama when elections are just around the corner, he said.

Asked about the Congress' stand on the Ram temple issue, he said, "This matter is being heard at the Supreme Court. We will surely react if Prime Minister Narendra Modi makes any statement about the construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya."

The Congress leader said, "If the BJP government at the Centre wants to build a Ram temple in Ayodhya then why it is not brining an ordinance? &nbsp;This government is only trying to deceive people in the name of Lord Rama."

Ahmad said India's key defence needs were ignored in the controversial Rafale deal.

Meanwhile, Union Minister for Minority Affairs and BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi hit out at the Congress.

Talking to journalists at Mandsaur while accompanying local BJP candidate Yashpal Singh Sisodiya for filing his nomination papers, Naqvi said the Congress feels restless when out of power and flutters like a "fish out of water".

Accusing the Congress of engaging in corruption and running governments in a dictatorial manner, Naqvi said the Rahul Gandhi-led party is spreading canards about Prime Minister Narendra and Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

Taking potshots at Congress and opposition leaders, Naqvi said there are two dozen candidates for the posts of prime minister and Madhya Pradesh chief minister, but there is no vacancy for these top positions.

Union minister and BJP leader Suresh Prabhu said the Congress is running out of ideas in elections and hence it is doing politics on the country's security.

He accompanied local BJP candidate Devendra Verma at Khandwa in a rally to file his nomination papers.

Prabhu said Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has given answers of all questions related to the Rafale fighter jet deal.

There should be no politics on the issue of country's defence and security, Prabhu said.

All the BJP candidates contesting from assembly seats in Bhopal district reached the returning officer's office in a rally to file their nomination papers.

These candidates offered prayers at a temple in Bhopal's Somwara Chowk along with Chief Minister Chouhan before taking out the rally.&nbsp;

The war of words between the BJP and the Congress has intensified ahead of the November 28 polling in Madhya Pradesh with both parties raising a range of issues to attack each other.

The war of words between the BJP and the Congress has intensified ahead of the November 28 polling in Madhya Pradesh with both parties raising a range of issues to attack each other. While the Congress accused the BJP of raking up the issues of Pakistan and Ram temple to ward off an impending electoral defeat, the ruling party said the main opposition outfit is feeling like a "fish out of water" since it lost power in Madhya Pradesh 15 years ago. Talking to reporters at Indore Friday, Congress national spokesperson Shakeel Ahmad said the BJP starts taking the name of Pakistan whenever it senses defeat in elections. It also starts doing politics in the name of Lord Rama when elections are just around the corner, he said. Asked about the Congress' stand on the Ram temple issue, he said, "This matter is being heard at the Supreme Court. We will surely react if Prime Minister Narendra Modi makes any statement about the construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya." The Congress leader said, "If the BJP government at the Centre wants to build a Ram temple in Ayodhya then why it is not brining an ordinance? This government is only trying to deceive people in the name of Lord Rama." Ahmad said India's key defence needs were ignored in the controversial Rafale deal. Meanwhile, Union Minister for Minority Affairs and BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi hit out at the Congress. Talking to journalists at Mandsaur while accompanying local BJP candidate Yashpal Singh Sisodiya for filing his nomination papers, Naqvi said the Congress feels restless when out of power and flutters like a "fish out of water". Accusing the Congress of engaging in corruption and running governments in a dictatorial manner, Naqvi said the Rahul Gandhi-led party is spreading canards about Prime Minister Narendra and Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. Taking potshots at Congress and opposition leaders, Naqvi said there are two dozen candidates for the posts of prime minister and Madhya Pradesh chief minister, but there is no vacancy for these top positions. Union minister and BJP leader Suresh Prabhu said the Congress is running out of ideas in elections and hence it is doing politics on the country's security. He accompanied local BJP candidate Devendra Verma at Khandwa in a rally to file his nomination papers. Prabhu said Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has given answers of all questions related to the Rafale fighter jet deal. There should be no politics on the issue of country's defence and security, Prabhu said. All the BJP candidates contesting from assembly seats in Bhopal district reached the returning officer's office in a rally to file their nomination papers. These candidates offered prayers at a temple in Bhopal's Somwara Chowk along with Chief Minister Chouhan before taking out the rally.

Madhya Pradesh polls: BJP, Congress trade charges ahead of November 28 election

A total of 2,800 nominations have been filed for the 230 seats of the Madhya Pradesh Assembly.

While the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has fielded its candidates from all the assembly seats, Congress announced its candidates only from 229 seats and left a seat for Sharad Yadav`s Loktantrik Janata Dal (LJD) for the upcoming assembly elections in the state.

The filing of nominations for the Madhya Pradesh assembly elections ended on Friday.

A total of 162 nominations were filed from Rewa assembly constituency, while 156 from Satna.

This time, the BJP has fielded Usha Thakur from Mhow assembly constituency. Earlier, party leader Kailash Vijayvargiya used to contest from this seat.

Opposing Thakur`s nomination from the seat, five BJP leaders from the area have filed independent nomination from the seat.

Meanwhile, Congress leaders Nasir Islam and Sajid Ali have also filed nomination as independent candidates.

Madhya Pradesh is slated to go on polls on November 28, while counting of votes will be held on December 11.&nbsp;

A total of 2,800 nominations have been filed for the 230 seats of the Madhya Pradesh Assembly. While the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has fielded its candidates from all the assembly seats, Congress announced its candidates only from 229 seats and left a seat for Sharad Yadav`s Loktantrik Janata Dal (LJD) for the upcoming assembly elections in the state.

A total of 2,800 nominations have been filed for the 230 seats of the Madhya Pradesh Assembly. While the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has fielded its candidates from all the assembly seats, Congress announced its candidates only from 229 seats and left a seat for Sharad Yadav`s Loktantrik Janata Dal (LJD) for the upcoming assembly elections in the state. The filing of nominations for the Madhya Pradesh assembly elections ended on Friday. A total of 162 nominations were filed from Rewa assembly constituency, while 156 from Satna. This time, the BJP has fielded Usha Thakur from Mhow assembly constituency. Earlier, party leader Kailash Vijayvargiya used to contest from this seat. Opposing Thakur`s nomination from the seat, five BJP leaders from the area have filed independent nomination from the seat. Meanwhile, Congress leaders Nasir Islam and Sajid Ali have also filed nomination as independent candidates. Madhya Pradesh is slated to go on polls on November 28, while counting of votes will be held on December 11.

Madhya Pradesh polls: 2,800 nominations filed for 230 seats

Ramkrishna Kusmaria, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and a former minister in the Shivraj Singh Chouhan-led government in Madhya Pradesh, has expressed discontent over the ticket distribution process and claimed that the party does not respect elderly people, similar to the manner in which Mughal ruler Aurangzeb imprisoned his father.

Kusmaria, a former agriculture minister and the president of Bundelkhand Development Corporation, said "I don`t understand what the problem is in giving tickets to the elderly. I believe that BJP is acting like how Aurangzeb had imprisoned his father and ruled. This is what they are doing now. Is this the way how to treat elderly people? The party needs to respect such people."

The BJP leader added that the people wanted him to be elected from Damoh constituency, asserting that the development works would be expedited.

He further alleged that the BJP ignored his demand for a ticket to contest from Damoh, and therefore, filed his nomination papers as an independent candidate on Friday.

"People are demanding that if you win, then the development works, which were stalled previously, would be completed soon. The previous legislator (from Damoh) did not pay heed. I am feeling suffocated now over the ticket distribution issue." Kusmaria said.

He further said that the Congress party was in touch with him, adding that "anything can happen" in the run-up to the polls.

Kusmaria is a five-time Member of Parliament (MP) and has been a Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Damoh thrice.

In the last assembly elections in 2013, the BJP had transferred him from Damoh district to Rajnagar assembly seat in Chhattarpur district, but he lost from there.

Madhya Pradesh is slated to go on polls on November 28, while counting of votes will be held on December 11.

Ramkrishna Kusmaria, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and a former minister in the Shivraj Singh Chouhan-led government in Madhya Pradesh, has expressed discontent over the ticket distribution process and claimed that the party does not respect elderly people, similar to the manner in which Mughal ruler Aurangzeb imprisoned his father.

Ramkrishna Kusmaria, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and a former minister in the Shivraj Singh Chouhan-led government in Madhya Pradesh, has expressed discontent over the ticket distribution process and claimed that the party does not respect elderly people, similar to the manner in which Mughal ruler Aurangzeb imprisoned his father. Kusmaria, a former agriculture minister and the president of Bundelkhand Development Corporation, said "I don`t understand what the problem is in giving tickets to the elderly. I believe that BJP is acting like how Aurangzeb had imprisoned his father and ruled. This is what they are doing now. Is this the way how to treat elderly people? The party needs to respect such people." The BJP leader added that the people wanted him to be elected from Damoh constituency, asserting that the development works would be expedited. He further alleged that the BJP ignored his demand for a ticket to contest from Damoh, and therefore, filed his nomination papers as an independent candidate on Friday. "People are demanding that if you win, then the development works, which were stalled previously, would be completed soon. The previous legislator (from Damoh) did not pay heed. I am feeling suffocated now over the ticket distribution issue." Kusmaria said. He further said that the Congress party was in touch with him, adding that "anything can happen" in the run-up to the polls. Kusmaria is a five-time Member of Parliament (MP) and has been a Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Damoh thrice. In the last assembly elections in 2013, the BJP had transferred him from Damoh district to Rajnagar assembly seat in Chhattarpur district, but he lost from there. Madhya Pradesh is slated to go on polls on November 28, while counting of votes will be held on December 11.

MP: Irked by ticket distribution, BJP leader compares party to Aurangzeb's rule

The Congress party on Sunday submitted evidence to the Election Commission of India (ECI) regarding the alleged irregularities in the voter roll in Madhya Pradesh.

Congress chief for Madhya Pradesh, Kamal Nath said they have provided evidence for approximately 60 lakh fake voters registered in the voting list.

"We have provided evidence to the Election Commission that there are approximately 60 Lakh fake voters registered in the voting list. These names have been deliberately registered in the list. This is not administrative negligence, but administrative misuse," Kamal Nath.

Meanwhile, Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) behind it and said, "This has been done by the BJP. How is it possible that population increased by 24 per cent in 10 years but the number of voters increased by 40 per cent? We scrutinized list in all constituencies, one voter is registered in 26 lists, there are similar cases in other places too."

Earlier in February also, the Congress party had complained to the Election Commission about discrepancies in the Madhya Pradesh voter's list and asking it take steps for ensuring free and fair elections.

In April, State`s chief electoral officer Salina Singh said that six lakh names were removed from Madhya Pradesh voter list.

Talking to ANI, Singh said that the commission is getting the update from the district collectors and the list is being updated. Madhya Pradesh will go to polls this year.

Earlier in February also, the Congress party had complained to the Election Commission about discrepancies in the Madhya Pradesh voter's list and asking it take steps for ensuring free and fair elections

The Congress party on Sunday submitted evidence to the Election Commission of India (ECI) regarding the alleged irregularities in the voter roll in Madhya Pradesh. Congress chief for Madhya Pradesh, Kamal Nath said they have provided evidence for approximately 60 lakh fake voters registered in the voting list. "We have provided evidence to the Election Commission that there are approximately 60 Lakh fake voters registered in the voting list. These names have been deliberately registered in the list. This is not administrative negligence, but administrative misuse," Kamal Nath. Meanwhile, Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) behind it and said, "This has been done by the BJP. How is it possible that population increased by 24 per cent in 10 years but the number of voters increased by 40 per cent? We scrutinized list in all constituencies, one voter is registered in 26 lists, there are similar cases in other places too." Earlier in February also, the Congress party had complained to the Election Commission about discrepancies in the Madhya Pradesh voter's list and asking it take steps for ensuring free and fair elections. In April, State`s chief electoral officer Salina Singh said that six lakh names were removed from Madhya Pradesh voter list. Talking to ANI, Singh said that the commission is getting the update from the district collectors and the list is being updated. Madhya Pradesh will go to polls this year.

MP election: Congress submits 'evidence' of 60 lakh fake voters to EC

The Home Ministry has directed a nationwide advisory to make sure that sufficient security is deployed to ensure that things don't go out of control during the strike-call today&nbsp;against the policy of caste-based reservation in education and jobs.&nbsp;

The bandh(strike) has now spread in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh after eight days in which nine people have lost their lives due to the violence during protests by the Dalit community demanding dilusion of the SC/ST Act.

The strike has not been called by any prominent outfit. The Ministry of Home Affairs has said that the district magistrates and SPs will be personally held responsible for any violence in their area of jurisdiction.&nbsp;

An official of the MHA said the ministry has issued an advisory to all states to take necessary precautionary measures in view of the calls on social media for the shutdown on April 10.&nbsp;

"The MHA has advised the states to beef up security and make appropriate arrangements to prevent any untoward incident, including the issue of prohibitory orders, if necessary," the official said.&nbsp;

The states have been asked to intensify patrolling in all sensitive locations so as to prevent any loss of life or damage to property. There will be no procession, public gathering tomorrow. Range IGs, district SPs, police commissioners have been given clear instructions to take prompt action against any such activity.

Security sources said calls for the so-called anti-quota bandh started circulating through social media, including various WhatsApp groups, after the protest on April 2 against the Supreme Court order mandating stringent safeguards before the SC/ST Act can be invoked.

Prohibitory orders under section 144 of the CrPC have been imposed in Jaipur city. Mobile internet service has also been blocked for 24 hours in Jaipur from tonight as a precautionary measure, the official said. Officials today said that they had been paying particular attention to messages being circulated on social media platforms.

Security across Madhya Pradesh was also beefed up in the wake of a shutdown call. Officials said the call has been a social media-fuelled one and no organisation had come forward so far to claim responsibility for it.

Police are also on alert in Punjab, where anti-riot squads have also been deployed, and Haryana, where last week’s bandh led to clashes in Kaithal town. In Jharkhand, apart from alerts against any rally or procession, police are keeping a watch on various social media platforms to track calls for a bandh.

Deputy Inspector General of Police, Bhopal, Dharmendra Dubey said that social media messages were being monitored and warned that those spreading hate messages would be booked under section 188 (disobedience to order promulgated by public servant) of the Indian Penal Code.

Ajatshatru, Divisional Commissioner of Bhopal said that prohibitory orders under section 144 had been clamped in the city for Tuesday but services including schools, government offices and banks would operate as usual.

In Gujarat, there have been no open calls for a bandh although Dalit leader Jignesh Mevani has already warned of a “counter protest” on April 14.

The Bandh has now heavily spread in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh after eight days where nine people lost their lives due to violence during protests by the Dalit community demanding dilusion of the SC/ST Act

The Home Ministry has directed a nationwide advisory to make sure that sufficient security is deployed to ensure that things don't go out of control during the strike-call today against the policy of caste-based reservation in education and jobs. The bandh(strike) has now spread in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh after eight days in which nine people have lost their lives due to the violence during protests by the Dalit community demanding dilusion of the SC/ST Act. The strike has not been called by any prominent outfit. The Ministry of Home Affairs has said that the district magistrates and SPs will be personally held responsible for any violence in their area of jurisdiction. An official of the MHA said the ministry has issued an advisory to all states to take necessary precautionary measures in view of the calls on social media for the shutdown on April 10. "The MHA has advised the states to beef up security and make appropriate arrangements to prevent any untoward incident, including the issue of prohibitory orders, if necessary," the official said. The states have been asked to intensify patrolling in all sensitive locations so as to prevent any loss of life or damage to property. There will be no procession, public gathering tomorrow. Range IGs, district SPs, police commissioners have been given clear instructions to take prompt action against any such activity. Security sources said calls for the so-called anti-quota bandh started circulating through social media, including various WhatsApp groups, after the protest on April 2 against the Supreme Court order mandating stringent safeguards before the SC/ST Act can be invoked. Prohibitory orders under section 144 of the CrPC have been imposed in Jaipur city. Mobile internet service has also been blocked for 24 hours in Jaipur from tonight as a precautionary measure, the official said. Officials today said that they had been paying particular attention to messages being circulated on social media platforms. Security across Madhya Pradesh was also beefed up in the wake of a shutdown call. Officials said the call has been a social media-fuelled one and no organisation had come forward so far to claim responsibility for it. Police are also on alert in Punjab, where anti-riot squads have also been deployed, and Haryana, where last week’s bandh led to clashes in Kaithal town. In Jharkhand, apart from alerts against any rally or procession, police are keeping a watch on various social media platforms to track calls for a bandh. Deputy Inspector General of Police, Bhopal, Dharmendra Dubey said that social media messages were being monitored and warned that those spreading hate messages would be booked under section 188 (disobedience to order promulgated by public servant) of the Indian Penal Code. Ajatshatru, Divisional Commissioner of Bhopal said that prohibitory orders under section 144 had been clamped in the city for Tuesday but services including schools, government offices and banks would operate as usual. In Gujarat, there have been no open calls for a bandh although Dalit leader Jignesh Mevani has already warned of a “counter protest” on April 14.

'Bharat Bandh': Home ministry issues advisory, security forces on alert nationwide

Ahead of Assembly elections due later this year, the BJP government in Madhya Pradesh today accorded the 'Minister of State' (MoS) status to five Hindu religious leaders, a move which was slammed by opposition Congress.

As per the order of General Administration Department's Additional Secretary K K Katiya, the MoS status has been accorded to Narmadanand Maharaj, Hariharanand Maharaj, Computer Baba, Bhaiyyu Maharaj and Pandit Yogendra Mahant.

On March 31, these five religious leaders were appointed to a committee set up for the conservation of the Narmada river.

As members of the committee, they have been given the MoS status, a GAD official said today.

Assembly elections are due in the state this year, and main opposition Congress dubbed the decision as an attempt by the BJP to exploit the respect these religious leaders enjoy in the society.

"It's a gimmick to score political points. This is also an effort by the chief minister (Shivraj Singh Chouhan) to wash off his sins. He ignored conservation of the Narmada. These saints should inspect where the state government has planted six crore saplings (along the river banks) as claimed by the CM," said Congress spokesperson Pankaj Chaturvedi.

State BJP spokesperson Rajnish Agrawal said the opposition party dislikes anything related to saints.

"Saints and seers were accorded the MoS status to make their work of environment and river conservation easy. The saints were roped in for the Narmada conservation work to ensure public participation," Agrawal said.

On March 31, these five religious leaders were appointed to a committee set up for the conservation of the Narmada river

Ahead of Assembly elections due later this year, the BJP government in Madhya Pradesh today accorded the 'Minister of State' (MoS) status to five Hindu religious leaders, a move which was slammed by opposition Congress. As per the order of General Administration Department's Additional Secretary K K Katiya, the MoS status has been accorded to Narmadanand Maharaj, Hariharanand Maharaj, Computer Baba, Bhaiyyu Maharaj and Pandit Yogendra Mahant. On March 31, these five religious leaders were appointed to a committee set up for the conservation of the Narmada river. As members of the committee, they have been given the MoS status, a GAD official said today. Assembly elections are due in the state this year, and main opposition Congress dubbed the decision as an attempt by the BJP to exploit the respect these religious leaders enjoy in the society. "It's a gimmick to score political points. This is also an effort by the chief minister (Shivraj Singh Chouhan) to wash off his sins. He ignored conservation of the Narmada. These saints should inspect where the state government has planted six crore saplings (along the river banks) as claimed by the CM," said Congress spokesperson Pankaj Chaturvedi. State BJP spokesperson Rajnish Agrawal said the opposition party dislikes anything related to saints. "Saints and seers were accorded the MoS status to make their work of environment and river conservation easy. The saints were roped in for the Narmada conservation work to ensure public participation," Agrawal said.

Madhya Pradesh: Bhaiyyu Maharaj, 4 other religious leaders get 'Minister of State' status

Bharatiya Janata Party MP from Assam's Tezpur RP Sharma on Wednesday sparked controversy when he said that "those who commit heinous crimes like rape must be shot in public".

BJP MP said that capital punishment is the only way to deal with people disrespecting women.

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Those who commit heinous crimes like rape must be shot in public, this is the only way to stop these incidents. People who can't respect women should be dealt with like this: RP Sharma,BJP MP from Tezpur <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Assam?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Assam</a> <a href="https://t.co/dg8oaYNWCB">pic.twitter.com/dg8oaYNWCB</a>
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&nbsp;

"Those who commit heinous crimes like rape must be shot in public this is the only way to stop these incidents," Sharma Said.

Recently, a five-year-old girl died after she was allegedly gang-raped and then set ablaze by five persons at her home in Nagaon's Bordua in Assam.

(With inputs from ANI)

'Those who commit heinous crimes like rape must be shot in public; this is the only way to stop these incidents,' RP Sharma said

Bharatiya Janata Party MP from Assam's Tezpur RP Sharma on Wednesday sparked controversy when he said that "those who commit heinous crimes like rape must be shot in public". BJP MP said that capital punishment is the only way to deal with people disrespecting women. Those who commit heinous crimes like rape must be shot in public, this is the only way to stop these incidents. People who can't respect women should be dealt with like this: RP Sharma,BJP MP from Tezpur #Assam pic.twitter.com/dg8oaYNWCB — ANI (@ANI) March 29, 2018 × "Those who commit heinous crimes like rape must be shot in public this is the only way to stop these incidents," Sharma Said. Recently, a five-year-old girl died after she was allegedly gang-raped and then set ablaze by five persons at her home in Nagaon's Bordua in Assam. (With inputs from ANI)

Rapists should be shot in public: Assam MP

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