Equity markets will track election trends this week as the exit polls showed that the ruling NDA is likely to come back to power.

The results of the seven-phase polls will come out Thursday and experts opined that markets have partly discounted exit poll outcome in the last few days.

Most exit polls Sunday forecast another term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with some of them projecting that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/exit-polls-2019-pm-modi-returning-to-power-with-300-plus-seats-say-pollsters-219927">BJP-led NDA will get more than 300 seats</a> to comfortably cross the majority mark of 272 in the Lok Sabha.

Regulator Sebi and stock exchanges have beefed up their surveillance mechanism to check any manipulative activities in the market this week in view of the high-octane election-related events lined up.

"Most exit polls have predicted NDA to win the Lok Sabha elections with a good margin. This was partly discounted in the markets over the last few days. The street would like it even more if the BJP on its own gets a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lions-share-of-uttar-pradeshs-seats-going-to-bjp-predict-exit-polls-219936">majority in the Lok Sabha</a>.

"However, going by the way the exit polls in the last two elections were off the mark from the actual numbers, the markets would get excited but not super excited," said Deepak Jasani, Head, Retail Research.

Investors should also brace for bouts of volatility in view of the high-octane election-related events, the analysts said.

Experts are of the opinion that bourses may be indecisive till the final election outcome is known.

"This week there is an event that is able to produce long-term trends in the market and is the factor that sets the tone for wealth creation. The political events like election results usually produce trends that last for years. Hence, it becomes very important for the economy and investors," said Mustafa Nadeem, CEO, Epic Research.

There can be sharp movement in the markets but the exit polls bring some decisiveness on the table as well, he added.

"This week is going to be the most happening of the year wherein all eyes would be glued to not 'stock quotes' but 'vote quotes'," said Jimeet Modi, Founder and CEO, SAMCO Securities &amp; StockNote.

Quarterly earnings would also impact trading as some major companies are scheduled to announce their financial report card this week, including Tata Motors, Canara Bank and Cipla.

Besides, the US-China trade-related issues, crude oil prices, rupee movement and foreign funds trend would influence trading sentiment, they added. 
During the last week, the BSE Sensex gained 467.78 points or 1.24 per cent.

On Friday, the 30-share benchmark closed 537.29 points or 1.44 per cent, higher at 37,930.77. Similarly, the broader Nifty rose 150.05 points, or 1.33 per cent, to settle at 11,407.15.

"Indian markets have shown tremendous strength before the long-awaited exit polls, despite the ongoing ambiguity in US-China trade talks," said Jagannadham Thunuguntla, Senior VP and Head of Research (Wealth), Centrum Broking Limited.&nbsp;

Equity markets will track election trends this week as the exit polls showed that the ruling NDA is likely to come back to power. The results of the seven-phase polls will come out Thursday and experts opined that markets have partly discounted exit poll outcome in the last few days.

Equity markets will track election trends this week as the exit polls showed that the ruling NDA is likely to come back to power. The results of the seven-phase polls will come out Thursday and experts opined that markets have partly discounted exit poll outcome in the last few days. Most exit polls Sunday forecast another term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with some of them projecting that BJP-led NDA will get more than 300 seats to comfortably cross the majority mark of 272 in the Lok Sabha. Regulator Sebi and stock exchanges have beefed up their surveillance mechanism to check any manipulative activities in the market this week in view of the high-octane election-related events lined up. "Most exit polls have predicted NDA to win the Lok Sabha elections with a good margin. This was partly discounted in the markets over the last few days. The street would like it even more if the BJP on its own gets a majority in the Lok Sabha. "However, going by the way the exit polls in the last two elections were off the mark from the actual numbers, the markets would get excited but not super excited," said Deepak Jasani, Head, Retail Research. Investors should also brace for bouts of volatility in view of the high-octane election-related events, the analysts said. Experts are of the opinion that bourses may be indecisive till the final election outcome is known. "This week there is an event that is able to produce long-term trends in the market and is the factor that sets the tone for wealth creation. The political events like election results usually produce trends that last for years. Hence, it becomes very important for the economy and investors," said Mustafa Nadeem, CEO, Epic Research. There can be sharp movement in the markets but the exit polls bring some decisiveness on the table as well, he added. "This week is going to be the most happening of the year wherein all eyes would be glued to not 'stock quotes' but 'vote quotes'," said Jimeet Modi, Founder and CEO, SAMCO Securities & StockNote. Quarterly earnings would also impact trading as some major companies are scheduled to announce their financial report card this week, including Tata Motors, Canara Bank and Cipla. Besides, the US-China trade-related issues, crude oil prices, rupee movement and foreign funds trend would influence trading sentiment, they added. During the last week, the BSE Sensex gained 467.78 points or 1.24 per cent. On Friday, the 30-share benchmark closed 537.29 points or 1.44 per cent, higher at 37,930.77. Similarly, the broader Nifty rose 150.05 points, or 1.33 per cent, to settle at 11,407.15. "Indian markets have shown tremendous strength before the long-awaited exit polls, despite the ongoing ambiguity in US-China trade talks," said Jagannadham Thunuguntla, Senior VP and Head of Research (Wealth), Centrum Broking Limited.

Exit polls, election outcome to set tone for markets

The fate of Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with 917 other candidates will be decided on Sunday, the last phase of seven-phased Lok Sabha polls.

The voting will take place for 59 seats including Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh from where <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/water-management-to-be-priority-if-nda-is-re-elected-pm-modi-219658">Modi is seeking re-election</a>, bringing the curtain down on the seven-phased mammoth electoral exercise which began on April 10.

In the last phase of polling, 13 seats each in Uttar Pradesh and Punjab, nine in West Bengal, eight seats each in Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, all four constituencies in Himachal Pradesh, three in Jharkhand and one seat in the Union Territory of Chandigarh will witness the polling.

According to Election Commission of India (ECI), over 10.01 lakh voters will decide the fate of 918 candidates. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

The most keenly watched electoral battle will take place in Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency, where Modi is facing Ajay Rai of Congress party and SP's Shalini Yadav.

Other prominent political figures whose fate will be sealed in the electronic voting machines (EVMs) are Shatrughan Sinha (Congress) and Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad (BJP) from Patna Sahib constituency, Bhojpuri actor Ravi Kishan (BJP), Madhusudhan Tripathi (Congress) and Rambhusal Nishad of SP from Gorakhpur seat, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri of BJP and Congress'&nbsp;Gurjeet Singh Aujla from Amritsar Lok Sabha constituency and actor Sunny Deol, who is pitted against Congress heavyweight Sunil Jakhar from Gurdaspur seat.

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The other leaders whose fortunes will also be decided in the final phase of polling are former Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badal (Ferozepur), his wife and Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal (Bhatinda) and Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh's wife Perneet Kaur in (Patiala), all in Punjab, three-time MP Anurag Thakur in Himachal Pradesh's Hamirpur, former Jharkhand Chief Minister Shibu Soren (Dumka) and former Union Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal, who faces sitting MP Kirron Kher in Chandigarh.

The Election Commission (EC) is deploying 710 companies of security forces to ensure the last phase of Lok Sabha polling in West Bengal on Sunday goes off peacefully.

"710 companies of security personnel will be providing 100 per cent coverage during the seventh phase of elections in West Bengal. This will include 512 quick response teams (QRTs) led by assistant commandants," said the EC in a statement.

Out of these 710 companies, a total of 147 companies will be deployed in constituencies which fall under the police jurisdiction of Kolkata police jurisdiction.

Two QRTs will be deployed in each police station, the EC said. The seats which go to polls on Sunday are Kolkata North, Kolkata South, Dum Dum, Barasat, Basirhat, Jadavpur, Diamond Harbour, Jaynagar (SC) and Mathurapur (SC).

The national poll body on Wednesday decided to cut short the campaign period in the state after violence marred the road show of BJP chief Amit Shah in Kolkata on Tuesday.

BJP and Communist Party of India (Marxist) had complained to the EC over violence and had demanded adequate measures to ensure that polls are held in a free and fair manner.

In the sixth phase of polling on May 12, over 63 per cent polling was recorded, with the highest turnout of 80.35 per cent in West Bengal and a minimum of 59.74 per cent in the city-state of Delhi.

Barring stray incidents of violence in West Bengal, the election on 59 seats spread over eight states remained peaceful. The voting took place from 7 am to 6 pm.

"An estimated 63.43 per cent turnout was recorded on Sunday in the 6th phase of Lok Sabha polls on 59 seats," Deputy Election Commissioner Umesh Sinha had said after the polling finished.

The fate of Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with 917 other candidates will be decided on Sunday, the last phase of seven-phased Lok Sabha polls. The voting will take place for 59 seats including Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh from where Modi is seeking re-election, bringing the curtain down on the seven-phased mammoth electoral exercise which began on April 10.

The fate of Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with 917 other candidates will be decided on Sunday, the last phase of seven-phased Lok Sabha polls. The voting will take place for 59 seats including Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh from where Modi is seeking re-election, bringing the curtain down on the seven-phased mammoth electoral exercise which began on April 10. In the last phase of polling, 13 seats each in Uttar Pradesh and Punjab, nine in West Bengal, eight seats each in Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, all four constituencies in Himachal Pradesh, three in Jharkhand and one seat in the Union Territory of Chandigarh will witness the polling. According to Election Commission of India (ECI), over 10.01 lakh voters will decide the fate of 918 candidates. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. The most keenly watched electoral battle will take place in Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency, where Modi is facing Ajay Rai of Congress party and SP's Shalini Yadav. Other prominent political figures whose fate will be sealed in the electronic voting machines (EVMs) are Shatrughan Sinha (Congress) and Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad (BJP) from Patna Sahib constituency, Bhojpuri actor Ravi Kishan (BJP), Madhusudhan Tripathi (Congress) and Rambhusal Nishad of SP from Gorakhpur seat, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri of BJP and Congress' Gurjeet Singh Aujla from Amritsar Lok Sabha constituency and actor Sunny Deol, who is pitted against Congress heavyweight Sunil Jakhar from Gurdaspur seat. × The other leaders whose fortunes will also be decided in the final phase of polling are former Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badal (Ferozepur), his wife and Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal (Bhatinda) and Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh's wife Perneet Kaur in (Patiala), all in Punjab, three-time MP Anurag Thakur in Himachal Pradesh's Hamirpur, former Jharkhand Chief Minister Shibu Soren (Dumka) and former Union Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal, who faces sitting MP Kirron Kher in Chandigarh. The Election Commission (EC) is deploying 710 companies of security forces to ensure the last phase of Lok Sabha polling in West Bengal on Sunday goes off peacefully. "710 companies of security personnel will be providing 100 per cent coverage during the seventh phase of elections in West Bengal. This will include 512 quick response teams (QRTs) led by assistant commandants," said the EC in a statement. Out of these 710 companies, a total of 147 companies will be deployed in constituencies which fall under the police jurisdiction of Kolkata police jurisdiction. Two QRTs will be deployed in each police station, the EC said. The seats which go to polls on Sunday are Kolkata North, Kolkata South, Dum Dum, Barasat, Basirhat, Jadavpur, Diamond Harbour, Jaynagar (SC) and Mathurapur (SC). The national poll body on Wednesday decided to cut short the campaign period in the state after violence marred the road show of BJP chief Amit Shah in Kolkata on Tuesday. BJP and Communist Party of India (Marxist) had complained to the EC over violence and had demanded adequate measures to ensure that polls are held in a free and fair manner. In the sixth phase of polling on May 12, over 63 per cent polling was recorded, with the highest turnout of 80.35 per cent in West Bengal and a minimum of 59.74 per cent in the city-state of Delhi. Barring stray incidents of violence in West Bengal, the election on 59 seats spread over eight states remained peaceful. The voting took place from 7 am to 6 pm. "An estimated 63.43 per cent turnout was recorded on Sunday in the 6th phase of Lok Sabha polls on 59 seats," Deputy Election Commissioner Umesh Sinha had said after the polling finished.

PM Modi among 918 candidates whose fate to be decided in final phase of Lok Sabha polling on Sunday

In PM Modi's attire in Kedarnath, message to Himachal Pradesh and West Bengal

Varanasi in eastern Uttar Pradesh is gearing up for the battle royale in the seventh and final phase of Lok Sabha polls on May 19. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the sitting Member of Parliament, is seeking re-election from Varanasi.

Modi held a massive roadshow in Varanasi before filling his nomination on April 26 in which he said that he will come to the people again to thank them once the results are out.

In 2014, Modi won the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat, defeating Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal by a huge margin of 3.37 lakh votes. Modi had polled 5,16,593 votes, about half the total votes, while Congress's Ajay Rai finished third.

Rai is the Congress candidate again this time from the constituency that goes to the polls on May 19, while the 'gathbandhan' has fielded a Samajwadi Party candidate Shalini Yadav as its joint nominee.

Ajay Rai had previously been a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Samajwadi Party (SP) before joining the Congress. He has also contested the assembly elections as an Independent candidate from Varanasi. In 2017 Shalini Yadav contested the mayoral election on the Congress ticket and placed second, with 1.14 lakh votes - the highest tally of a Congress candidate in any recent electoral contest in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) bastion.

Apart from Rai and Yadav, there are 23 other candidates contesting against Modi this year.

The other constituencies that will go to the polls on May 19 in UP are Gorakhpur, Maharajganj, Kushi Nagar, Deoria, Bansgaon, Ghosi, Salempur, Ballia, Ghazipur, Chandauli, Mirzapur and Robertsganj.

Varanasi in eastern Uttar Pradesh is gearing up for the battle royale in the seventh and final phase of Lok Sabha polls on May 19. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the sitting Member of Parliament, is seeking re-election from Varanasi.

Varanasi in eastern Uttar Pradesh is gearing up for the battle royale in the seventh and final phase of Lok Sabha polls on May 19. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the sitting Member of Parliament, is seeking re-election from Varanasi. Modi held a massive roadshow in Varanasi before filling his nomination on April 26 in which he said that he will come to the people again to thank them once the results are out. In 2014, Modi won the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat, defeating Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal by a huge margin of 3.37 lakh votes. Modi had polled 5,16,593 votes, about half the total votes, while Congress's Ajay Rai finished third. Rai is the Congress candidate again this time from the constituency that goes to the polls on May 19, while the 'gathbandhan' has fielded a Samajwadi Party candidate Shalini Yadav as its joint nominee. Ajay Rai had previously been a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Samajwadi Party (SP) before joining the Congress. He has also contested the assembly elections as an Independent candidate from Varanasi. In 2017 Shalini Yadav contested the mayoral election on the Congress ticket and placed second, with 1.14 lakh votes - the highest tally of a Congress candidate in any recent electoral contest in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) bastion. Apart from Rai and Yadav, there are 23 other candidates contesting against Modi this year. The other constituencies that will go to the polls on May 19 in UP are Gorakhpur, Maharajganj, Kushi Nagar, Deoria, Bansgaon, Ghosi, Salempur, Ballia, Ghazipur, Chandauli, Mirzapur and Robertsganj.

All eyes on Varanasi in final phase of Lok Sabha polls

At his last election rally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the voters that on Sunday when they go to cast their votes they will be electing a majority government for the second time in a row after decades.

''This Sunday when you go to cast your vote then you will be scripting history as you will elect a majority government for the second time in a row after decades,'' he said.&nbsp;

Modi said he is sure of the BJP-led ruling dispensation winning over 300 seats.

''From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, from Kutch to Kamrup, the whole nation is saying -- Ab ki baar, 300 paar, phir ek baar Modi Sarkar,'' Modi added.&nbsp;

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PM Narendra Modi in Khargone,Madhya Pradesh: From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, from Kutch to Kamrup, the whole nation is saying- Ab ki baar, 300 paar, phir ek baar Modi Sarkar <a href="https://t.co/aD6yvvUtUl">pic.twitter.com/aD6yvvUtUl</a>
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He also assured the tribals that their land will be safe&nbsp;as long as BJP is in power.&nbsp;

''Till Modi and BJP are there, nobody can touch land of those living in forests,'' noted Modi.&nbsp;

At his last election rally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the voters that on Sunday when they go to cast their votes they will be electing a majority government for the second time in a row after decades.

At his last election rally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the voters that on Sunday when they go to cast their votes they will be electing a majority government for the second time in a row after decades. ''This Sunday when you go to cast your vote then you will be scripting history as you will elect a majority government for the second time in a row after decades,'' he said. Modi said he is sure of the BJP-led ruling dispensation winning over 300 seats. ''From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, from Kutch to Kamrup, the whole nation is saying -- Ab ki baar, 300 paar, phir ek baar Modi Sarkar,'' Modi added. PM Narendra Modi in Khargone,Madhya Pradesh: From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, from Kutch to Kamrup, the whole nation is saying- Ab ki baar, 300 paar, phir ek baar Modi Sarkar pic.twitter.com/aD6yvvUtUl — ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2019 × He also assured the tribals that their land will be safe as long as BJP is in power. ''Till Modi and BJP are there, nobody can touch land of those living in forests,'' noted Modi.

After decades you will elect a majority government for second time in a row: PM Modi

BJP president Amit Shah on Thursday appealed to voters to vote for BJP candidate Rampati Ram Tripathi not only for the work done by BJP in the past but also for the security provided to the nation under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Speaking at an election rally here, Shah said, "You may vote for our candidate for the development work done in the past but you should also vote for him because, under the leadership Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the country has become secured from terrorism."

The BJP president accused the UPA government of being soft on the issue of terrorism.

Shah said, "Rahul Gandhi's Guru Sam Pitroda said that attacks like Pulwama happen all the time, why were air strikes required? We said that if you want to appease terrorists, you do it but we would never forgive those who disrupt peace within our borders."

Shah spoke about the development initiatives of the BJP government and praised the former MP Kalraj Mishra for developing "Purvanchal corridor, fertilizers industry in Gorakhpur, research centre in Gorakhpur to fight against Japanese Influenza, Purvanchal expressway, and loan waiver of sugarcane farmers."

After Mishra left the Deoria seat and decided not to participate in the Lok Sabha Polls, the BJP decided to field Ramapati Ram Tripathi from Deoria against Binod Kumar Jaiswal of the BSP and Congress'&nbsp;Niyaz Ahmad Khan.

The remaining 59 seats would go to poll on May 19 in the final phase of the Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

BJP president Amit Shah on Thursday appealed to voters to vote for BJP candidate Rampati Ram Tripathi not only for the work done by BJP in the past but also for the security provided to the nation under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

BJP president Amit Shah on Thursday appealed to voters to vote for BJP candidate Rampati Ram Tripathi not only for the work done by BJP in the past but also for the security provided to the nation under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Speaking at an election rally here, Shah said, "You may vote for our candidate for the development work done in the past but you should also vote for him because, under the leadership Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the country has become secured from terrorism." The BJP president accused the UPA government of being soft on the issue of terrorism. Shah said, "Rahul Gandhi's Guru Sam Pitroda said that attacks like Pulwama happen all the time, why were air strikes required? We said that if you want to appease terrorists, you do it but we would never forgive those who disrupt peace within our borders." Shah spoke about the development initiatives of the BJP government and praised the former MP Kalraj Mishra for developing "Purvanchal corridor, fertilizers industry in Gorakhpur, research centre in Gorakhpur to fight against Japanese Influenza, Purvanchal expressway, and loan waiver of sugarcane farmers." After Mishra left the Deoria seat and decided not to participate in the Lok Sabha Polls, the BJP decided to field Ramapati Ram Tripathi from Deoria against Binod Kumar Jaiswal of the BSP and Congress' Niyaz Ahmad Khan. The remaining 59 seats would go to poll on May 19 in the final phase of the Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Vote for national security, appeals Amit Shah at election rally in Deoria

India's ministry of defence initiated the process to create&nbsp;three new agencies, especially for special operations, cyberspace and space war. These special forces divisions will have nearly 3000 commandos for the country's&nbsp;security.

As its primary step, the government appointed Sri Lanka war veteran Major General AK Dhingra as the first chief of the armed forces special operations division. The Indian tri-services commando unit will have two-star officers from the Indian Army’s parachute force also known as Paras, the marine commandos MARCOS of Navy and the Garuda unit of the Air Force.

This new division of Indian defence will work under the tri-service integrated defence staff and will have it’s headquarter based in the defence ministry. The division is also expected to be the first choice of the government in matters related to the terror attacks in the country and neighbouring South Asia.&nbsp;

For now, the &nbsp;Army’s special unit is combatting terrorists and conducting special anti-terrorist operations in Jammu and Kashmir.

The attempt to set up the armed force special forces division was given final approval by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year during a combined conference of Indian defence forces in Jodhpur, Rajasthan.&nbsp;

India has been facing terror attack threats for decades. After the 2008 terrorist attack in Mumbai and several other terrorist operations in Kashmir, the government felt the need for the special unit.

&nbsp;The three new agencies are a small beginning towards injecting jointness and synergy among the Army, Navy and Indian Air Force. The defence ministry says, in the future, the agencies can grow into full-fledged commands.&nbsp;

A country as large as India certainly needs a much-needed collaboration in logistics, planning, procurement and training among the three forces, who often pull in different directions, as well as to provide "single-point'' fighting advises to the government.

India's ministry of defence initiated the process to create three new agencies, especially for special operations, cyberspace and space war. These special forces divisions will have nearly 3000 commandos for the country's security.

India's ministry of defence initiated the process to create three new agencies, especially for special operations, cyberspace and space war. These special forces divisions will have nearly 3000 commandos for the country's security. As its primary step, the government appointed Sri Lanka war veteran Major General AK Dhingra as the first chief of the armed forces special operations division. The Indian tri-services commando unit will have two-star officers from the Indian Army’s parachute force also known as Paras, the marine commandos MARCOS of Navy and the Garuda unit of the Air Force. This new division of Indian defence will work under the tri-service integrated defence staff and will have it’s headquarter based in the defence ministry. The division is also expected to be the first choice of the government in matters related to the terror attacks in the country and neighbouring South Asia. For now, the Army’s special unit is combatting terrorists and conducting special anti-terrorist operations in Jammu and Kashmir. The attempt to set up the armed force special forces division was given final approval by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year during a combined conference of Indian defence forces in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. India has been facing terror attack threats for decades. After the 2008 terrorist attack in Mumbai and several other terrorist operations in Kashmir, the government felt the need for the special unit. The three new agencies are a small beginning towards injecting jointness and synergy among the Army, Navy and Indian Air Force. The defence ministry says, in the future, the agencies can grow into full-fledged commands. A country as large as India certainly needs a much-needed collaboration in logistics, planning, procurement and training among the three forces, who often pull in different directions, as well as to provide "single-point'' fighting advises to the government.

India’s defence set to form new special forces division

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday claimed that the West Bengal Police, in connivance with the state government, was trying to wipe out <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-will-take-revenge-for-vandalisation-of-vidyasagars-statue-mamata-banerjee-219188">evidence of the desecration of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar's statue</a>.

Addressing a rally here, Modi said Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, "frustrated over her imminent defeat", has threatened to put him behind bars after the general elections.

"TMC goons are spreading violence, and they vandalised the statue of Vidyasagar. The way the state government erased proof of the Narada and Sarada scams, in the same manner, it is trying to remove evidence in this incident," he said.

Those involved in the act of vandalising the statue should be given exemplary punishment, the PM insisted.

Police officers are trying to wipe out the evidence of the incident in order to save the TMC goons, Modi alleged.

"The TMC and their goons have made Bengal a hell. Those involved in this act, in this sin should be given strong punishment," he said.

Kolkata witnessed widespread violence on Tuesday at BJP president Amit Shah's massive roadshow in the city. A bust of 19th century Bengali reformer and polymath Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar was desecrated during clashes.

"Didi has lost her cool in the face of imminent defeat and has become frustrated, and is now threatening to put me behind bars," Modi said.

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Taking a dig at Banerjee's nephew, Abhishek, the prime minister said the "aunt-nephew 'jodi' is only interested in looting Bengal and running the 'tolabaji' syndicate (extortion racket)".

The days of the 'bua-bhatija' (aunt-nephew) government in the state are numbered going by the mood of the people, Modi said, adding, the BJP will win the majority of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state and over 300 seats in the country.

Abhishek Banerjee, who is considered the number two in the TMC, is seeking re-election from the Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha seat.

"Democracy has been maligned by violence in Bengal. The TMC has problem with Durga Puja, Saraswati Puja and even chanting 'Jai Shree Ram' is a crime in Bengal," the PM said.

It is the BJP which is fighting to restore democracy in Bengal, Modi asserted and claimed that the chief minister had even threatened to capture its party offices in the state, he said.

"You and your party are now known for grabbing land. Because of this, people have lost confidence in you and have made up their mind to defeat you," Modi said.

Dubbing Banerjee as "sticker Didi", Modi said she is not interested in the development of Bengal, but keen on putting her own stickers on central projects. 
He said the TMC supremo does not have faith in the country's prime minister, but she doesn't hesitate from praising the prime minister of Pakistan.

In an apparent reference to the recent arrest of BJP youth wing activist Priyanka Sharma, who walked out of jail on Wednesday after being arrested for posting a morphed picture of Banerjee on Facebook, Modi said she puts saffron party workers behind bars, but lets TMC goons out in the open to "torture the masses".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday claimed that the West Bengal Police, in connivance with the state government, was trying to wipe out evidence of the desecration of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar's statue.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday claimed that the West Bengal Police, in connivance with the state government, was trying to wipe out evidence of the desecration of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar's statue. Addressing a rally here, Modi said Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, "frustrated over her imminent defeat", has threatened to put him behind bars after the general elections. "TMC goons are spreading violence, and they vandalised the statue of Vidyasagar. The way the state government erased proof of the Narada and Sarada scams, in the same manner, it is trying to remove evidence in this incident," he said. Those involved in the act of vandalising the statue should be given exemplary punishment, the PM insisted. Police officers are trying to wipe out the evidence of the incident in order to save the TMC goons, Modi alleged. "The TMC and their goons have made Bengal a hell. Those involved in this act, in this sin should be given strong punishment," he said. Kolkata witnessed widespread violence on Tuesday at BJP president Amit Shah's massive roadshow in the city. A bust of 19th century Bengali reformer and polymath Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar was desecrated during clashes. "Didi has lost her cool in the face of imminent defeat and has become frustrated, and is now threatening to put me behind bars," Modi said. × Taking a dig at Banerjee's nephew, Abhishek, the prime minister said the "aunt-nephew 'jodi' is only interested in looting Bengal and running the 'tolabaji' syndicate (extortion racket)". The days of the 'bua-bhatija' (aunt-nephew) government in the state are numbered going by the mood of the people, Modi said, adding, the BJP will win the majority of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state and over 300 seats in the country. Abhishek Banerjee, who is considered the number two in the TMC, is seeking re-election from the Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha seat. "Democracy has been maligned by violence in Bengal. The TMC has problem with Durga Puja, Saraswati Puja and even chanting 'Jai Shree Ram' is a crime in Bengal," the PM said. It is the BJP which is fighting to restore democracy in Bengal, Modi asserted and claimed that the chief minister had even threatened to capture its party offices in the state, he said. "You and your party are now known for grabbing land. Because of this, people have lost confidence in you and have made up their mind to defeat you," Modi said. Dubbing Banerjee as "sticker Didi", Modi said she is not interested in the development of Bengal, but keen on putting her own stickers on central projects. He said the TMC supremo does not have faith in the country's prime minister, but she doesn't hesitate from praising the prime minister of Pakistan. In an apparent reference to the recent arrest of BJP youth wing activist Priyanka Sharma, who walked out of jail on Wednesday after being arrested for posting a morphed picture of Banerjee on Facebook, Modi said she puts saffron party workers behind bars, but lets TMC goons out in the open to "torture the masses".

Police trying to wipe out evidence of statue desecration: Modi

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/police-trying-to-wipe-out-evidence-of-statue-desecration-modi-219198">Narendra Modi has carefully avoided speaking on the issue</a> of corruption during the campaign, but we have not allowed him to escape, Congress President Rahul Gandhi said Thursday, claiming it will be "bye-bye" for him on May 23.

Addressing a rally in the Pataliputra Lok Sabha segment, from where Misa Bharti daughter of RJD supremo Lalu Prasad is in the fray, Gandhi attacked Modi for skirting questions on promises he had made like Rs 15 lakh in bank accounts of all poor and creation of two crore jobs.

Asserting that the ruling BJP was headed for a defeat in the Lok Sabha polls, the Congress chief claimed Modi would get a befitting reply from the people angry over his failure to fulfil promises made five years ago when votes in the current elections are counted on May 23.

In a veiled attack on the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/obama-asks-the-same-says-pm-modi-when-akshay-kumar-asked-how-do-you-sleep-for-just-3-hours-213049"> interviews given by the prime minister, including the one to the Bollywood star Akshay Kumar</a>, Gandhi said questions and answers are choreographed to skirt the issue of his promises. All that we hear from Modi ji these days are inanities like how he eats a mango and why he wears half-sleeved kurtas.

Repeating the slogan of Chowkidar chor hai which has rankled the BJP, Gandhi said Modi must answer the questions we have been raising with regard to the Rafale deal. Why he got the contract awarded to Anil Ambani, why he agreed to pay much more for the fighter aircraft than what earlier had been agreed to and why Rafale would not be manufactured in India. He owes an answer to the nation on these counts.

Modi has travelled the entire country for his campaign, addressing rallies with the help of teleprompters. He has carefully avoided speaking on the issue of corruption. But we have not allowed him to escape. My challenge to him for an open debate on corruption still stands. He has been badly exposed and, on May 23, it will be bye-bye for him, Gandhi said.

Speaking about his proposed NYAY scheme, Gandhi said financial assistance of Rs 72,000 per year to poor families would boost demand, leading to setting up of more industries and in turn fueling production and creation of jobs. It will propel the economy like diesel propels a tractor.

Gandhi also accused Modi of making Bihar a berozgaari (unemployment) ka centre and charged the Nitish Kumar government in the state with failure to provide relief to farmers through measures like a waiver of loans unlike in Congress-ruled states where it has been given top priority.

The Congress president, who toured the state in the first four phases of elections but skipped the next two, urged the people to vote for Misa Bharti, showering praises on her father serving sentences in fodder scam cases for his fight for social justice.

Earlier, Bharti younger brother Tejashwi Yadav, who has emerged as the party's de facto leader in their fathers' absence, called the BJP candidate Ram Kripal Yadav paltu chacha no. 2 (turncoat number two).

Yadav has been using the epithet paltu for Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar whose exit from the Mahagathbandhan two years ago made the RJD lose power in the state and stripped him of the Deputy CMs post.

Ram Kripal Yadav, now a Union minister, was a close aide of Lalu Prasad, who quit the RJD to join BJP ahead of the 2014 parliamentary elections and won from Pataliputra seat defeating Misa.

In a show of unity within the jailed RJD chiefs family, his wife Rabri Devi and elder son Tej Pratap Yadav too attended the rally where other leaders of the opposition alliance like former Union minister and RLSP chief Upendra Kushwaha besides ex-CM and HAM founding president Jitan Ram Manjhi were also present.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has carefully avoided speaking on the issue of corruption during the campaign, but we have not allowed him to escape, Congress President Rahul Gandhi said Thursday, claiming it will be "bye-bye" for him on May 23.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has carefully avoided speaking on the issue of corruption during the campaign, but we have not allowed him to escape, Congress President Rahul Gandhi said Thursday, claiming it will be "bye-bye" for him on May 23. Addressing a rally in the Pataliputra Lok Sabha segment, from where Misa Bharti daughter of RJD supremo Lalu Prasad is in the fray, Gandhi attacked Modi for skirting questions on promises he had made like Rs 15 lakh in bank accounts of all poor and creation of two crore jobs. Asserting that the ruling BJP was headed for a defeat in the Lok Sabha polls, the Congress chief claimed Modi would get a befitting reply from the people angry over his failure to fulfil promises made five years ago when votes in the current elections are counted on May 23. In a veiled attack on the interviews given by the prime minister, including the one to the Bollywood star Akshay Kumar, Gandhi said questions and answers are choreographed to skirt the issue of his promises. All that we hear from Modi ji these days are inanities like how he eats a mango and why he wears half-sleeved kurtas. Repeating the slogan of Chowkidar chor hai which has rankled the BJP, Gandhi said Modi must answer the questions we have been raising with regard to the Rafale deal. Why he got the contract awarded to Anil Ambani, why he agreed to pay much more for the fighter aircraft than what earlier had been agreed to and why Rafale would not be manufactured in India. He owes an answer to the nation on these counts. Modi has travelled the entire country for his campaign, addressing rallies with the help of teleprompters. He has carefully avoided speaking on the issue of corruption. But we have not allowed him to escape. My challenge to him for an open debate on corruption still stands. He has been badly exposed and, on May 23, it will be bye-bye for him, Gandhi said. Speaking about his proposed NYAY scheme, Gandhi said financial assistance of Rs 72,000 per year to poor families would boost demand, leading to setting up of more industries and in turn fueling production and creation of jobs. It will propel the economy like diesel propels a tractor. Gandhi also accused Modi of making Bihar a berozgaari (unemployment) ka centre and charged the Nitish Kumar government in the state with failure to provide relief to farmers through measures like a waiver of loans unlike in Congress-ruled states where it has been given top priority. The Congress president, who toured the state in the first four phases of elections but skipped the next two, urged the people to vote for Misa Bharti, showering praises on her father serving sentences in fodder scam cases for his fight for social justice. Earlier, Bharti younger brother Tejashwi Yadav, who has emerged as the party's de facto leader in their fathers' absence, called the BJP candidate Ram Kripal Yadav paltu chacha no. 2 (turncoat number two). Yadav has been using the epithet paltu for Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar whose exit from the Mahagathbandhan two years ago made the RJD lose power in the state and stripped him of the Deputy CMs post. Ram Kripal Yadav, now a Union minister, was a close aide of Lalu Prasad, who quit the RJD to join BJP ahead of the 2014 parliamentary elections and won from Pataliputra seat defeating Misa. In a show of unity within the jailed RJD chiefs family, his wife Rabri Devi and elder son Tej Pratap Yadav too attended the rally where other leaders of the opposition alliance like former Union minister and RLSP chief Upendra Kushwaha besides ex-CM and HAM founding president Jitan Ram Manjhi were also present.

On May 23 it will be 'bye-bye' for Modi, claims Rahul at Bihar rally

The war of words over the vandalisation of the bust of Bengal Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar escalated on Thursday with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi a liar and rejecting his offer to build a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tmc-goons-vandalised-vidyasagars-statue-committed-to-grand-statue-at-same-spot-pm-modi-219098">grand statue of the late social reformer</a>.

She asserted that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/bengal-has-money-to-make-vidyasagars-statue-mamata-hits-back-at-modi-219155">West Bengal government had enough money to build it</a>.

She also said that she has never come across a prime minister who kept saying so many lies. Banerjee took a jibe at the BJP which she said could not build a Ram Temple in the last five years and now was making the promise of building a new statue of Vidyasagar, which was vandalised in clashes during BJP president Amit Shah's roadshow in Kolkata earlier this week.

"In the last five years, you (Modi) could not build a Ram Temple and you want to make Vidyasagar's statue? People of Bengal won't beg before you. We have enough money to build it. Your goons came here and said 'Bengal kangal hai'. Are Bengalis kangal?" a vociferous TMC supremo said making a veiled reference to BJP President Amit Shah who had attacked Banerjee a couple of days.

Banerjee was addressing a public meeting while campaigning for her nephew and sitting MP Abhishek.

Earlier, addressing a meeting in the state Modi attacked the TMC and offered to build a grand statute of Vidyasagar.

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Scoffing at BJP over the promise of making Vidyasagar's statue, Banerjee said, "BJP goons broke Vidyasagar's statue because they did not know him. He has contributed a lot to our society. You (BJP) broke the statue and you are saying we will make another one. Will the old heritage return or what? We do not need your money."

In an unprecedented action in India's electoral history, the EC on Wednesday invoked Article 324 of the Constitution to cut short the last phase of campaigning in West Bengal by a day after violence and clashes between BJP and TMC workers during Shah's roadshow in the state capital on Tuesday.

During the mayhem, Vidyasagar's bust was also vandalised at a college named after him. Since then, both <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-bjp-tmc-row-heats-up-in-west-bengal-as-amit-shah-pm-modi-attack-mamata-219015">TMC and BJP have been trading accusations</a> against each other.

Vidyasagar, a renowned figure in West Bengal's history, devoted his life to women-centric reforms. He is also credited with bringing more order to the Bengali education system.

Asking the crowd to say 'Chowkidar Chor Hai' (guard is the thief), Banerjee said, "You have to bid him (Modi) goodbye. First, he called himself a 'chaiwala', now he claims himself to be a 'chowkidar'."

"Will you vote for this 'chowkidar'? We will take revenge for the vandalisation of Vidyasagar's statue. The people of Bengal will give you a befitting reply," she added.

Launching a scathing attack on Modi, the TMC supremo claimed that she never saw a "liar" occupying the top post.

"I have never heard any Prime Minister telling so many lies. How on earth did he become the Prime Minister? He does not have any idea how to run the country," Banerjee said.

She claimed that she had video evidence of BJP supporters disguising themselves as CRPF personnel and threatening the people to vote for the saffron party.

"I have video evidence of BJP supporters wearing CRPF uniforms. They go to the polling booths and threaten people to vote for BJP. They even said that they will change the EVMs in the middle of the night. But we will not keep quiet, we will fight," Banerjee said.

Snapping back at BJP over their claims that the state's democracy is under attack, the TMC supremo said, "Modi babu is so scared of Bengal. Just see, he is so scared of TMC."

Urging the people to vote in huge numbers to oust BJP, Banerjee asserted that the people of the country did not want the "dangerous" saffron party in power "anymore."

"On May 23, we will throw you out. You are here for just a few days only. Vote for TMC and defeat BJP. We do not want any more atrocities. The more quickly you will go, the better it would be," she said.

Elections to 33 seats have taken place in West Bengal in the first six phases of elections. The remaining nine seats will go to polls on May 19 in the last round with the counting set to take place on May 23.&nbsp;

The war of words over the vandalisation of the bust of Bengal Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar escalated on Thursday with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi a liar and rejecting his offer to build a grand statue of the late social reformer.

The war of words over the vandalisation of the bust of Bengal Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar escalated on Thursday with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi a liar and rejecting his offer to build a grand statue of the late social reformer. She asserted that the West Bengal government had enough money to build it. She also said that she has never come across a prime minister who kept saying so many lies. Banerjee took a jibe at the BJP which she said could not build a Ram Temple in the last five years and now was making the promise of building a new statue of Vidyasagar, which was vandalised in clashes during BJP president Amit Shah's roadshow in Kolkata earlier this week. "In the last five years, you (Modi) could not build a Ram Temple and you want to make Vidyasagar's statue? People of Bengal won't beg before you. We have enough money to build it. Your goons came here and said 'Bengal kangal hai'. Are Bengalis kangal?" a vociferous TMC supremo said making a veiled reference to BJP President Amit Shah who had attacked Banerjee a couple of days. Banerjee was addressing a public meeting while campaigning for her nephew and sitting MP Abhishek. Earlier, addressing a meeting in the state Modi attacked the TMC and offered to build a grand statute of Vidyasagar. × Scoffing at BJP over the promise of making Vidyasagar's statue, Banerjee said, "BJP goons broke Vidyasagar's statue because they did not know him. He has contributed a lot to our society. You (BJP) broke the statue and you are saying we will make another one. Will the old heritage return or what? We do not need your money." In an unprecedented action in India's electoral history, the EC on Wednesday invoked Article 324 of the Constitution to cut short the last phase of campaigning in West Bengal by a day after violence and clashes between BJP and TMC workers during Shah's roadshow in the state capital on Tuesday. During the mayhem, Vidyasagar's bust was also vandalised at a college named after him. Since then, both TMC and BJP have been trading accusations against each other. Vidyasagar, a renowned figure in West Bengal's history, devoted his life to women-centric reforms. He is also credited with bringing more order to the Bengali education system. Asking the crowd to say 'Chowkidar Chor Hai' (guard is the thief), Banerjee said, "You have to bid him (Modi) goodbye. First, he called himself a 'chaiwala', now he claims himself to be a 'chowkidar'." "Will you vote for this 'chowkidar'? We will take revenge for the vandalisation of Vidyasagar's statue. The people of Bengal will give you a befitting reply," she added. Launching a scathing attack on Modi, the TMC supremo claimed that she never saw a "liar" occupying the top post. "I have never heard any Prime Minister telling so many lies. How on earth did he become the Prime Minister? He does not have any idea how to run the country," Banerjee said. She claimed that she had video evidence of BJP supporters disguising themselves as CRPF personnel and threatening the people to vote for the saffron party. "I have video evidence of BJP supporters wearing CRPF uniforms. They go to the polling booths and threaten people to vote for BJP. They even said that they will change the EVMs in the middle of the night. But we will not keep quiet, we will fight," Banerjee said. Snapping back at BJP over their claims that the state's democracy is under attack, the TMC supremo said, "Modi babu is so scared of Bengal. Just see, he is so scared of TMC." Urging the people to vote in huge numbers to oust BJP, Banerjee asserted that the people of the country did not want the "dangerous" saffron party in power "anymore." "On May 23, we will throw you out. You are here for just a few days only. Vote for TMC and defeat BJP. We do not want any more atrocities. The more quickly you will go, the better it would be," she said. Elections to 33 seats have taken place in West Bengal in the first six phases of elections. The remaining nine seats will go to polls on May 19 in the last round with the counting set to take place on May 23.

We will take revenge for vandalisation of Vidyasagar's statue: Mamata Banerjee

Hours after Narendra Modi promised a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tmc-goons-vandalised-vidyasagars-statue-committed-to-grand-statue-at-same-spot-pm-modi-219098">grand statue of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar at the same spot</a> where the old one stood before being vandalised, Mamata Banerjee shot back and asserted that West Bengal has the money required for the polymath's structure and asked if the Prime Minister can return the 200-year-old heritage.

Terming him a "liar", the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-bjp-tmc-row-heats-up-in-west-bengal-as-amit-shah-pm-modi-attack-mamata-219015">Chief Minister urged Modi to prove allegations against TMC</a> of vandalising Vidyasagar's statue and threatened to drag him to the jail otherwise.

"He (PM) said he will make Vidyasagar statue. Bengal has money to make the statue. Can he give back the 200 years old heritage? We have proof and you say that TMC has done. Are not you ashamed? He should do sit-ups for lying so much. Liar. Prove allegations otherwise we will drag you to jail," Mamata lashed out.

Vidyasagar, a renowned figure in West Bengal's history, devoted his life to women-centric reforms. He is also credited with bringing more order to the Bengali education system.

The TMC chief also came down heavily on the Election Commission over its unprecedented move of cutting the campaigning in the nine parliamentary constituencies of the state by a day.

Asserting that she is ready to go to prison for her remarks, Banerjee claimed that the poll body is BJP's "brother" and has been sold out to the party.

"Last night we came to know that BJP had filed a complaint with EC so that we cannot hold any meeting after Narendra Modi's meeting. The EC is the brother of BJP, earlier it was an impartial body now everyone in the country says EC has sold out to BJP. I feel sad but I do not have anything to say, I am ready to go to jail for saying this. I am not scared to say the truth," she said.

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Modi is also scheduled to address two rallies in West Bengal's Mathurapur and Dum Dum Lok Sabha seats later in the day.

In an unprecedented move for India's electoral history, the poll commission on Wednesday invoked Article 324 of the Constitution to cut short the last phase campaigning in the state by a day after violence and clashes between BJP and Trinamool Congress workers at BJP president Amit Shah's roadshow Kolkata on Tuesday.

During the mayhem, the bust Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar was also vandalised, both the TMC and BJP are trading blame over the matter.

Elections to 33 seats have taken place in West Bengal in the first six phases of elections.

The remaining nine seats will go to polls on May 19 in the last round with the counting set to take place on May 23.

Hours after Narendra Modi promised a grand statue of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar at the same spot where the old one stood before being vandalised, Mamata Banerjee shot back and asserted that West Bengal has the money required for the polymath's structure and asked if the Prime Minister can return the 200-year-old heritage.

Hours after Narendra Modi promised a grand statue of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar at the same spot where the old one stood before being vandalised, Mamata Banerjee shot back and asserted that West Bengal has the money required for the polymath's structure and asked if the Prime Minister can return the 200-year-old heritage. Terming him a "liar", the Chief Minister urged Modi to prove allegations against TMC of vandalising Vidyasagar's statue and threatened to drag him to the jail otherwise. "He (PM) said he will make Vidyasagar statue. Bengal has money to make the statue. Can he give back the 200 years old heritage? We have proof and you say that TMC has done. Are not you ashamed? He should do sit-ups for lying so much. Liar. Prove allegations otherwise we will drag you to jail," Mamata lashed out. Vidyasagar, a renowned figure in West Bengal's history, devoted his life to women-centric reforms. He is also credited with bringing more order to the Bengali education system. The TMC chief also came down heavily on the Election Commission over its unprecedented move of cutting the campaigning in the nine parliamentary constituencies of the state by a day. Asserting that she is ready to go to prison for her remarks, Banerjee claimed that the poll body is BJP's "brother" and has been sold out to the party. "Last night we came to know that BJP had filed a complaint with EC so that we cannot hold any meeting after Narendra Modi's meeting. The EC is the brother of BJP, earlier it was an impartial body now everyone in the country says EC has sold out to BJP. I feel sad but I do not have anything to say, I am ready to go to jail for saying this. I am not scared to say the truth," she said. × Modi is also scheduled to address two rallies in West Bengal's Mathurapur and Dum Dum Lok Sabha seats later in the day. In an unprecedented move for India's electoral history, the poll commission on Wednesday invoked Article 324 of the Constitution to cut short the last phase campaigning in the state by a day after violence and clashes between BJP and Trinamool Congress workers at BJP president Amit Shah's roadshow Kolkata on Tuesday. During the mayhem, the bust Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar was also vandalised, both the TMC and BJP are trading blame over the matter. Elections to 33 seats have taken place in West Bengal in the first six phases of elections. The remaining nine seats will go to polls on May 19 in the last round with the counting set to take place on May 23.

Bengal has money to make Vidyasagar's statue: Mamata Banerjee hits back at Modi

Look across the political and electoral spectrum in India, and try to identify mass leaders. By definition, they should be strong, stand alone types, capable of rousing people with stirring speeches, which could include filling up New Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan, Patna’s Gandhi Maidan, the Marina in Chennai, Azad Park in Mumbai or the numerous grounds that are used for political rallies throughout the land. &nbsp;

It comes as sobering realisation that beyond a clutch of leading politicians –and they can be counted on the fingers –the breed of mass leaders have virtually disappeared in this country.&nbsp;

Outside of Narendra Modi, Mamata Banerjee, Lalu Yadav, Mulayam Singh Yadav of the old, and Navin Patnaik, there are not many who qualify for this distinction. &nbsp;

To be sure, south India has its quota of mass leaders in Chandrababu Naidu, K Chandrasekar Rao and VS Achuthanandan, who represents the once-hoary Left tradition, but beyond their own bailiffs and states, they rarely so much as venture out even in peak election time.&nbsp;

In other words, the mass leaders of the yesteryears - the Nehrus, Lohias, Vajpayees, the Left stalwarts, MGR and Karunanidhis and several others before them, are now a thing of the past.&nbsp;

It is revealing to ask why it has panned out this way. After all, a vibrant multi-party democracy like India should have been brimming with orators, flamboyant mass leaders and stalwarts who could have generally made a difference. Remember, there are a total of 1,841 parties registered with the Election Commission of India, of which seven are national parties, as many as 52 state parties and incredibly, 1,785 unrecognised parties, making India a democracy without a parallel.&nbsp;

Yet, there are not more than a dozen politicians who can stand up and hold the attention of a million people for an hour, in a country of 900- million plus voters. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The roots of this anomaly lie in the country’s deep-seated feudal politics, never mind the copious lip service to democracy and other such western concepts. &nbsp;

The Congress, which could boast of several mass leaders in the course of the freedom struggle, who could and did sway people towards non-cooperation and other forms of protest against British rule, slowly started to disappear from public life as it gradually settled into the role of the ruling party.

Jawaharlal Nehru’s period was not bereft of such stalwarts. BC Roy in Bengal, Pratap Singh Kairon in Punjab, SK Sinha in Bihar and Gobind Ballabh Pant in UP, were among the leaders who dominated the political spectrum in the provinces, along with several other independence-era stalwarts like Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, CD Deshmukh and Jagjivan Ram, who held fort at the Centre.

The rot can be traced to the Indira Gandhi period in the late 1960s and early 1970s, when every single leader of any consequence, beginning with K Kamaraj, was shafted out of the Congress system and the political networks, quite systematically and ruthlessly.&nbsp;

Things reached such a pass by the late 1970s that there was little scope for any mass leader to have any place in a political system dominated by the Congress. Stalwart chief ministers were replaced by family minions, who had no mass base nor any support among state MLAs, which until then was the principle criterion for selecting chief ministers.&nbsp;

In fact, it became a liability to be a mass leader and an asset to be a political lightweight, as it opened the doors of political office. &nbsp;

Even today, the Congress is paying the price. One of the main reasons for their political decimation is the absence of any popular leader outside of the Gandhi-Nehru family, whose fading aura has coincided with the corresponding rise of the BJP.&nbsp;

The all powerful, overbearing and dominant Congress culture took its toll across the political spectrum. Political parties, as a rule, began to look for ways to whittle down any leader of promise, who could become a potential challenger, making sure that he or she was sent to oblivion.

So by the 1980s and 1990s, the leaders who did manage to build a bridge with the masses, did so by default and through sheer happenstance. Mamata Banerjee, for instance, fought her way up the Youth Congress ladder because she got the opportunities and was willing to take her chances, and not because of any encouragement provided to her from any political quarter. &nbsp;

Similarly, Lalu Yadav, Mulayam Singh Yadav and Nitish Kumar found the JP movement in the mid-1970s as their ladder to establish themselves as leaders of consequence. There was no question of anyone encouraging them to reach where they did, except their own reflexes, instincts and guile.&nbsp;

Down south in Tamil Nadu, the likes of MGR, Karunanidhi and Jayalalitha used the powerful Tamil film movement to make their presence felt and gradually but steadily, expanded their mass base.&nbsp;

But having reached the positions that they did, these politicians turned out to be no different. Parties that they headed became family enterprises (save Nitish), where no outsider, let alone a mass leader, was ever going to be encouraged.&nbsp;

Things have remained that way. Why, even today, the country’s most important political entity, the BJP, cannot boast of one single popular national leader outside of Narendra Modi. While the dynamics of a cadre-based party like the BJP or the Left are entirely different, for one reason or the other, they too have failed to produce a leader, whose writ runs large through the length and breadth of the Indian republic.&nbsp;

&nbsp;(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the<a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-only-followers-needed-here-please-2749305"> original article)</a>

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Look across the political and electoral spectrum in India, and try to identify mass leaders. By definition, they should be strong, stand alone types, capable of rousing people with stirring speeches, which could include filling up New Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan, Patna’s Gandhi Maidan, the Marina in Chennai, Azad Park in Mumbai or the numerous grounds that are used for political rallies throughout the land.

Look across the political and electoral spectrum in India, and try to identify mass leaders. By definition, they should be strong, stand alone types, capable of rousing people with stirring speeches, which could include filling up New Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan, Patna’s Gandhi Maidan, the Marina in Chennai, Azad Park in Mumbai or the numerous grounds that are used for political rallies throughout the land. It comes as sobering realisation that beyond a clutch of leading politicians –and they can be counted on the fingers –the breed of mass leaders have virtually disappeared in this country. Outside of Narendra Modi, Mamata Banerjee, Lalu Yadav, Mulayam Singh Yadav of the old, and Navin Patnaik, there are not many who qualify for this distinction. To be sure, south India has its quota of mass leaders in Chandrababu Naidu, K Chandrasekar Rao and VS Achuthanandan, who represents the once-hoary Left tradition, but beyond their own bailiffs and states, they rarely so much as venture out even in peak election time. In other words, the mass leaders of the yesteryears - the Nehrus, Lohias, Vajpayees, the Left stalwarts, MGR and Karunanidhis and several others before them, are now a thing of the past. It is revealing to ask why it has panned out this way. After all, a vibrant multi-party democracy like India should have been brimming with orators, flamboyant mass leaders and stalwarts who could have generally made a difference. Remember, there are a total of 1,841 parties registered with the Election Commission of India, of which seven are national parties, as many as 52 state parties and incredibly, 1,785 unrecognised parties, making India a democracy without a parallel. Yet, there are not more than a dozen politicians who can stand up and hold the attention of a million people for an hour, in a country of 900- million plus voters. The roots of this anomaly lie in the country’s deep-seated feudal politics, never mind the copious lip service to democracy and other such western concepts. The Congress, which could boast of several mass leaders in the course of the freedom struggle, who could and did sway people towards non-cooperation and other forms of protest against British rule, slowly started to disappear from public life as it gradually settled into the role of the ruling party. Jawaharlal Nehru’s period was not bereft of such stalwarts. BC Roy in Bengal, Pratap Singh Kairon in Punjab, SK Sinha in Bihar and Gobind Ballabh Pant in UP, were among the leaders who dominated the political spectrum in the provinces, along with several other independence-era stalwarts like Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, CD Deshmukh and Jagjivan Ram, who held fort at the Centre. The rot can be traced to the Indira Gandhi period in the late 1960s and early 1970s, when every single leader of any consequence, beginning with K Kamaraj, was shafted out of the Congress system and the political networks, quite systematically and ruthlessly. Things reached such a pass by the late 1970s that there was little scope for any mass leader to have any place in a political system dominated by the Congress. Stalwart chief ministers were replaced by family minions, who had no mass base nor any support among state MLAs, which until then was the principle criterion for selecting chief ministers. In fact, it became a liability to be a mass leader and an asset to be a political lightweight, as it opened the doors of political office. Even today, the Congress is paying the price. One of the main reasons for their political decimation is the absence of any popular leader outside of the Gandhi-Nehru family, whose fading aura has coincided with the corresponding rise of the BJP. The all powerful, overbearing and dominant Congress culture took its toll across the political spectrum. Political parties, as a rule, began to look for ways to whittle down any leader of promise, who could become a potential challenger, making sure that he or she was sent to oblivion. So by the 1980s and 1990s, the leaders who did manage to build a bridge with the masses, did so by default and through sheer happenstance. Mamata Banerjee, for instance, fought her way up the Youth Congress ladder because she got the opportunities and was willing to take her chances, and not because of any encouragement provided to her from any political quarter. Similarly, Lalu Yadav, Mulayam Singh Yadav and Nitish Kumar found the JP movement in the mid-1970s as their ladder to establish themselves as leaders of consequence. There was no question of anyone encouraging them to reach where they did, except their own reflexes, instincts and guile. Down south in Tamil Nadu, the likes of MGR, Karunanidhi and Jayalalitha used the powerful Tamil film movement to make their presence felt and gradually but steadily, expanded their mass base. But having reached the positions that they did, these politicians turned out to be no different. Parties that they headed became family enterprises (save Nitish), where no outsider, let alone a mass leader, was ever going to be encouraged. Things have remained that way. Why, even today, the country’s most important political entity, the BJP, cannot boast of one single popular national leader outside of Narendra Modi. While the dynamics of a cadre-based party like the BJP or the Left are entirely different, for one reason or the other, they too have failed to produce a leader, whose writ runs large through the length and breadth of the Indian republic. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

India only has a few politicians who can be called mass leaders

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Though all of India is waiting to see who wins the ongoing 2019 Lok Sabha elections, or better still, who will form the next government, it is pretty certain to me that whoever wins will have a challenge on hands to run the administration, because the economy is in a strange shape.

It is fashionable for any new government to blame its predecessor and also try to come out with new policies, and we saw a lot of it when Prime Minister Narendra Modi's NDA government did and said things that fixed responsibility on the previous UPA rule. It is true that the BJP-led government ended what was perceived to be a policy paralysis on several fronts and took measures to revive the power sector, fix a controversial spectrum allocation scheme in telecommunications and did a lot to make investing in India easier. Steps like the MUDRA loan scheme for entrepreneurs and brand-name schemes like Digital India and Startup India gave (at least in the eyes of the government itself) a fancy packaging edge to the economy.

But then, I ask myself, what if Modi leads the new government formed over the next few weeks? My view is that this time, it would be difficult for him to go back seven years or 70 to buy himself more time. Democracy works on the principle that if you have five years to rule, you do your best in those five years in a manner that those who voted for you get a good enough impression to elect you for another five. In the case of Modi, given his decisive steps on several fronts and his incredible capacity to articulate things, where he seemed to lack in the outcome, he made up in persuasion to buy more time. However, a second chance in politics is like a second inning. It gives elbow room to score runs but getting a second chance on a second chance is no option.

The strange thing about the Indian economy now is that there are two narratives that do not seem to intersect. One is that of investors, industries and infrastructure seekers. The other is of farmers and job seekers. To please the former you need good, clean policies and spending to boost the things that help industries. However, there is no guarantee that the investment that flows in generates jobs for tens of millions of youths in the short run. Any government that comes to power will have to make its choice carefully.

The Modi government reined in the fiscal deficit, but Rahul Gandhi-led Congress has made a big deal out of a shortage of jobs, an agrarian crisis and the goods and services tax (GST). Demonetisation of high-value notes by Modi has not really yielded fruits. All this leaves a big challenge to him if he gets re-elected. His current campaign has focused primarily on his being the leading "Chowkidar" of the nation with the Balakot air strikes and decisive promises to check terrorism. But, with 125 crore people in the world's fastest-growing major economy, the focus has to come back to investment, inflation management and jobs.

There is a controversy now that GDP growth may have been slower than estimated in recent years because the government's data estimates took into account a large chunk of shell companies that showed no real activity. Meanwhile, the NDA government's plan to introduce the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code has run into rough weather. What this means is that it is taking longer for banks to get money out of companies that need to pay them back. The Supreme Court has got involved in the matter, adding obstacles in the administrative process. Indian businessmen love to fight in courts and particularly fight the government. Groups with state blessings, such as IL&amp;FS are in deep trouble, while a slew of brand name companies are in various states of crisis, such as Essar Steel, builder groups Jaypee and Amrapali, and, of course, the high-profile Jet Airways. These names are only symbolic of a deeper crisis in the economy in which too many people took too big bets on money taken from state-run banks in a manner that hurt both growth and jobs.

India's economic growth slowed down in 2018-19 due to declining growth in private consumption, slow growth in fixed investment, and muted exports. This happened even as agriculture suffered. Unemployment, meanwhile rose to 7.6 &nbsp;per cent in April, up from 6.7 per cent in March.&nbsp;

Loans that either did not yield interest or not paid back, called non-performing assets (NPAs), added up to more than Rs 10 lakh crore at the end of March. As much as 86 per cent of this was in public sector banks.

The next government needs to spend more taxpayer money to revive its banks so they can lend to help industries and agriculture. But fiscal deficit ran out of control this year after what seemed like a fine period of fiscal consolidation. Fiscal deficit crossed 134 per cent of the government's budget estimate for 2018/19 by the end of February, against 120 per cent a year earlier and the Centre upped its fiscal deficit target to 3.4 per cent from 3.3 per cent.

If Congress comes anywhere near power - either as the leader of a coalition or as part of it - it has to deliver on agriculture and jobs, and that requires fiscal spending muscle. If Modi comes back to power, he has to revive banking and industry and hope that translates into well-being for common Indians in rural areas.&nbsp;

While all that happens, China is having a trade war with the US, which is also pressuring India to follow its sanctions on Iranian oil, which is key for India. The US has prohibited India from importing oil from Iran after the waiver for India ran out on May 1.

Neither the fiscal situation nor the international trade environment is easy for the next government -- whoever that is. As they say in cricket, it would be a tough wicket to bat on, especially for any government that wants to keep both farmers and unemployed youths happy.

&nbsp;(This article was originally published on The ZeeNews. Read the <a href="https://zeenews.india.com/blogs/paisa-paisa-paisa-whoever-wins-the-2019-lok-sabha-elections-the-economy-will-be-their-biggest-challenge-2203594.html">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Though all of India is waiting to see who wins the ongoing 2019 Lok Sabha elections, or better still, who will form the next government, it is pretty certain to me that whoever wins will have a challenge on hands to run the administration, because the economy is in a strange shape.

Though all of India is waiting to see who wins the ongoing 2019 Lok Sabha elections, or better still, who will form the next government, it is pretty certain to me that whoever wins will have a challenge on hands to run the administration, because the economy is in a strange shape. It is fashionable for any new government to blame its predecessor and also try to come out with new policies, and we saw a lot of it when Prime Minister Narendra Modi's NDA government did and said things that fixed responsibility on the previous UPA rule. It is true that the BJP-led government ended what was perceived to be a policy paralysis on several fronts and took measures to revive the power sector, fix a controversial spectrum allocation scheme in telecommunications and did a lot to make investing in India easier. Steps like the MUDRA loan scheme for entrepreneurs and brand-name schemes like Digital India and Startup India gave (at least in the eyes of the government itself) a fancy packaging edge to the economy. But then, I ask myself, what if Modi leads the new government formed over the next few weeks? My view is that this time, it would be difficult for him to go back seven years or 70 to buy himself more time. Democracy works on the principle that if you have five years to rule, you do your best in those five years in a manner that those who voted for you get a good enough impression to elect you for another five. In the case of Modi, given his decisive steps on several fronts and his incredible capacity to articulate things, where he seemed to lack in the outcome, he made up in persuasion to buy more time. However, a second chance in politics is like a second inning. It gives elbow room to score runs but getting a second chance on a second chance is no option. The strange thing about the Indian economy now is that there are two narratives that do not seem to intersect. One is that of investors, industries and infrastructure seekers. The other is of farmers and job seekers. To please the former you need good, clean policies and spending to boost the things that help industries. However, there is no guarantee that the investment that flows in generates jobs for tens of millions of youths in the short run. Any government that comes to power will have to make its choice carefully. The Modi government reined in the fiscal deficit, but Rahul Gandhi-led Congress has made a big deal out of a shortage of jobs, an agrarian crisis and the goods and services tax (GST). Demonetisation of high-value notes by Modi has not really yielded fruits. All this leaves a big challenge to him if he gets re-elected. His current campaign has focused primarily on his being the leading "Chowkidar" of the nation with the Balakot air strikes and decisive promises to check terrorism. But, with 125 crore people in the world's fastest-growing major economy, the focus has to come back to investment, inflation management and jobs. There is a controversy now that GDP growth may have been slower than estimated in recent years because the government's data estimates took into account a large chunk of shell companies that showed no real activity. Meanwhile, the NDA government's plan to introduce the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code has run into rough weather. What this means is that it is taking longer for banks to get money out of companies that need to pay them back. The Supreme Court has got involved in the matter, adding obstacles in the administrative process. Indian businessmen love to fight in courts and particularly fight the government. Groups with state blessings, such as IL&FS are in deep trouble, while a slew of brand name companies are in various states of crisis, such as Essar Steel, builder groups Jaypee and Amrapali, and, of course, the high-profile Jet Airways. These names are only symbolic of a deeper crisis in the economy in which too many people took too big bets on money taken from state-run banks in a manner that hurt both growth and jobs. India's economic growth slowed down in 2018-19 due to declining growth in private consumption, slow growth in fixed investment, and muted exports. This happened even as agriculture suffered. Unemployment, meanwhile rose to 7.6 per cent in April, up from 6.7 per cent in March. Loans that either did not yield interest or not paid back, called non-performing assets (NPAs), added up to more than Rs 10 lakh crore at the end of March. As much as 86 per cent of this was in public sector banks. The next government needs to spend more taxpayer money to revive its banks so they can lend to help industries and agriculture. But fiscal deficit ran out of control this year after what seemed like a fine period of fiscal consolidation. Fiscal deficit crossed 134 per cent of the government's budget estimate for 2018/19 by the end of February, against 120 per cent a year earlier and the Centre upped its fiscal deficit target to 3.4 per cent from 3.3 per cent. If Congress comes anywhere near power - either as the leader of a coalition or as part of it - it has to deliver on agriculture and jobs, and that requires fiscal spending muscle. If Modi comes back to power, he has to revive banking and industry and hope that translates into well-being for common Indians in rural areas. While all that happens, China is having a trade war with the US, which is also pressuring India to follow its sanctions on Iranian oil, which is key for India. The US has prohibited India from importing oil from Iran after the waiver for India ran out on May 1. Neither the fiscal situation nor the international trade environment is easy for the next government -- whoever that is. As they say in cricket, it would be a tough wicket to bat on, especially for any government that wants to keep both farmers and unemployed youths happy. (This article was originally published on The ZeeNews. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Whoever wins the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the economy will be their biggest challenge

Six out of seven phases are over for Lok Sabha elections, 2019. The fate of candidates in 90 per cent of the Parliament strength has been sealed.&nbsp;

Ground feedback, journalists and commentators differ in opinions on who is leading at the end of Phase six.

Some opinions are also coloured by their respective ideologies. Many experts claim there is a significant undercurrent, but are hesitant to call out the election outcome. The Indian voter is smart and is likely to have the last laugh on May 23, the day of the results. &nbsp;

While this election is being touted as wave-less, the 2014 verdict was clear from the onset. UPA-2, reeling under scams and a mega onslaught by Narendra Modi, was predicted to lose.&nbsp;

A year ago (in 2018), 2019 elections was a done deal. Rahul and Congress were preparing for 2024. A setback in Karnataka and losses in three Hindi heartland states put the BJP on the back foot.&nbsp;

Most opinion polls predicted a hung assembly in December 2018 and January 2019. Then in the aftermath of Pulwama and air strike 2.0, NDA’s fortunes revived. &nbsp;

The last of the polls showed NDA a few seats short of majority in April 2019. The fortunes of alliances have been swinging like a pendulum with NDA clearly ahead of others. While the BJP-led alliance is aiming to get to a majority, UPA and others are aiming to beat the NDA.&nbsp;

Many factors affect the voting behaviour of an individual. For some voters, issues are very important while for others, leadership matters; there are also those who back a particular candidate, caste, performance of government, ideology and whether he/she is a beneficiary of government scheme or not, among other motivating factors. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also, it may not just be one factor but a combination of factors that affects voting behaviour.&nbsp;

Unemployment, corruption, price rise, farm distress and development are subjects, which feature regularly in the top 5 issues across elections in India.

While during the 2014 elections, price rise and corruption were the top 2 issues, in 2009 it was unemployment and price rise. Issues alone may not be the sole determinant of election outcomes.&nbsp;

As I travel across the country in my profession as a political consultant, many people ask me who will win the 2019 elections. For me the biggest question of 2019 election is, when one goes to vote, is he/she voting to elect a Prime Minister or elect a Member of Parliament?

In India, elections are increasingly becoming a presidential style. If more and more people go out and vote to elect a PM, BJP has the advantage. If more and more people go out and vote to elect their local representative, then it is advantage opposition, as BJP has most MPs and will have to bear the brunt of non-performance of some of them.&nbsp;

Modi’s persona has helped BJP attain a simple majority on its own, in 2014, a feat accomplished after 30 years.&nbsp;

The Centre for Study of Developing Societies (CSDS) carried out a National Election Study 2014, which asked respondents, “While voting some people give importance to the local candidate, others to the state-level leadership of the party and some others to the prime ministerial candidate. How would you describe yourself?”&nbsp;

About 28 per cent voters gave importance to PM candidate and 26 per cent to the local candidate. The PM candidate was the topmost issue. What is this percentage likely to be in 2019, will determine the end results.&nbsp;

Modi’s popularity is still intact and this is even acknowledged by his detractors.&nbsp;

A middle-aged Uber driver in Delhi tells me he has a voter ID in Aligarh. He voted and believes that BJP is winning from there. The vote is not for the candidate, but for Modi.

From relatives in Bihar to voters in Bhubaneswar to cab drivers in Shimla, most people believe Modi is the panacea of most ills: from taking on poverty to teaching Pakistan a lesson. They also believe that while state governments could be different, at the Centre there is only Modi who can deliver the goods. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On Facebook live of Lallan Top, a popular online news portal, whose reporters are travelling through the length and breadth of Uttar Pradesh, many people on camera have been heard saying, “If there was no Modi, the BJP candidates would have lost their security deposits.”

These elections are turning out to be a vote either for Modi or against Modi. Whatever seats BJP and its allies get will be primarily because of him. The party realises this and that is why it has coined slogans like ‘Modi hai to mumkin hai’, ‘Phir ek baar Modi sarkar’. Everybody, obviously, is eagerly waiting for May 23. That clearly is the D-Day.&nbsp;

&nbsp;(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-the-prime-minister-as-president-2748978">original article)</a>

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Six out of seven phases are over for Lok Sabha elections, 2019. The fate of candidates in 90 per cent of the Parliament strength has been sealed. Ground feedback, journalists and commentators differ in opinions on who is leading at the end of Phase six.

Six out of seven phases are over for Lok Sabha elections, 2019. The fate of candidates in 90 per cent of the Parliament strength has been sealed. Ground feedback, journalists and commentators differ in opinions on who is leading at the end of Phase six. Some opinions are also coloured by their respective ideologies. Many experts claim there is a significant undercurrent, but are hesitant to call out the election outcome. The Indian voter is smart and is likely to have the last laugh on May 23, the day of the results. While this election is being touted as wave-less, the 2014 verdict was clear from the onset. UPA-2, reeling under scams and a mega onslaught by Narendra Modi, was predicted to lose. A year ago (in 2018), 2019 elections was a done deal. Rahul and Congress were preparing for 2024. A setback in Karnataka and losses in three Hindi heartland states put the BJP on the back foot. Most opinion polls predicted a hung assembly in December 2018 and January 2019. Then in the aftermath of Pulwama and air strike 2.0, NDA’s fortunes revived. The last of the polls showed NDA a few seats short of majority in April 2019. The fortunes of alliances have been swinging like a pendulum with NDA clearly ahead of others. While the BJP-led alliance is aiming to get to a majority, UPA and others are aiming to beat the NDA. Many factors affect the voting behaviour of an individual. For some voters, issues are very important while for others, leadership matters; there are also those who back a particular candidate, caste, performance of government, ideology and whether he/she is a beneficiary of government scheme or not, among other motivating factors. Also, it may not just be one factor but a combination of factors that affects voting behaviour. Unemployment, corruption, price rise, farm distress and development are subjects, which feature regularly in the top 5 issues across elections in India. While during the 2014 elections, price rise and corruption were the top 2 issues, in 2009 it was unemployment and price rise. Issues alone may not be the sole determinant of election outcomes. As I travel across the country in my profession as a political consultant, many people ask me who will win the 2019 elections. For me the biggest question of 2019 election is, when one goes to vote, is he/she voting to elect a Prime Minister or elect a Member of Parliament? In India, elections are increasingly becoming a presidential style. If more and more people go out and vote to elect a PM, BJP has the advantage. If more and more people go out and vote to elect their local representative, then it is advantage opposition, as BJP has most MPs and will have to bear the brunt of non-performance of some of them. Modi’s persona has helped BJP attain a simple majority on its own, in 2014, a feat accomplished after 30 years. The Centre for Study of Developing Societies (CSDS) carried out a National Election Study 2014, which asked respondents, “While voting some people give importance to the local candidate, others to the state-level leadership of the party and some others to the prime ministerial candidate. How would you describe yourself?” About 28 per cent voters gave importance to PM candidate and 26 per cent to the local candidate. The PM candidate was the topmost issue. What is this percentage likely to be in 2019, will determine the end results. Modi’s popularity is still intact and this is even acknowledged by his detractors. A middle-aged Uber driver in Delhi tells me he has a voter ID in Aligarh. He voted and believes that BJP is winning from there. The vote is not for the candidate, but for Modi. From relatives in Bihar to voters in Bhubaneswar to cab drivers in Shimla, most people believe Modi is the panacea of most ills: from taking on poverty to teaching Pakistan a lesson. They also believe that while state governments could be different, at the Centre there is only Modi who can deliver the goods. On Facebook live of Lallan Top, a popular online news portal, whose reporters are travelling through the length and breadth of Uttar Pradesh, many people on camera have been heard saying, “If there was no Modi, the BJP candidates would have lost their security deposits.” These elections are turning out to be a vote either for Modi or against Modi. Whatever seats BJP and its allies get will be primarily because of him. The party realises this and that is why it has coined slogans like ‘Modi hai to mumkin hai’, ‘Phir ek baar Modi sarkar’. Everybody, obviously, is eagerly waiting for May 23. That clearly is the D-Day. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Narendra Modi’s popularity is still intact and this is even acknowledged by his detractors

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/police-imposes-night-curfew-in-sri-lanka-again-amid-violence-218754">Police imposes night curfew in Sri Lanka again amid violence</a>

Sri Lankan authorities on Tuesday imposed another night of curfew amid violence in the North-Western Province (NWP).

Police spokesman Ruwan Gunasekera said the night curfew will go into effect from 9:00 pm. Gunasekera added that NWP will be shutdown longer.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-someone-attacks-us-on-our-doorstep-we-will-fight-to-the-finish-china-on-trade-war-with-us-218705">If someone attacks us on our doorstep, we will fight to the finish: China on trade war with US</a>

A day after China retaliated with imposing $60 billion tariffs on US goods, the foreign ministry said it will remain calm and level-headed in the face of flip-flops and maximum pressure from the US side.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/after-cfo-jet-airways-ceo-vinay-dube-resigns-218733">After CFO, Jet Airways CEO Vinay Dube resigns</a>

Jet Airways said on Tuesday that Chief Executive Officer Vinay Dube had resigned with immediate effect.

Earlier today, Jet Airways' Deputy Chief Executive and Chief Financial Officer Amit Agarwal had also resigned.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-to-move-air-defence-units-closer-to-pakistan-border-post-balakot-strikes-218676">Indian Army to move air defence units closer to Pakistan border post-Balakot strikes</a>

After a deep internal review of the recent conflict with Pakistan, the Indian Army is planning to deploy a number of its air defence units close to the border to thwart aerial threats emanating from Pakistan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/pm-modi-challenges-opposition-to-prove-if-he-amassed-assets-kept-money-in-foreign-bank-218697">Prove I have benami property, money in foreign bank: PM Modi challenges Opposition</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday threw an open challenge to the Opposition to prove if he had amassed any assets or kept money in any foreign bank.

Police imposes night curfew in Sri Lanka again amid violence Sri Lankan authorities on Tuesday imposed another night of curfew amid violence in the North-Western Province (NWP).

Police imposes night curfew in Sri Lanka again amid violence Sri Lankan authorities on Tuesday imposed another night of curfew amid violence in the North-Western Province (NWP). Police spokesman Ruwan Gunasekera said the night curfew will go into effect from 9:00 pm. Gunasekera added that NWP will be shutdown longer. If someone attacks us on our doorstep, we will fight to the finish: China on trade war with US A day after China retaliated with imposing $60 billion tariffs on US goods, the foreign ministry said it will remain calm and level-headed in the face of flip-flops and maximum pressure from the US side. After CFO, Jet Airways CEO Vinay Dube resigns Jet Airways said on Tuesday that Chief Executive Officer Vinay Dube had resigned with immediate effect. Earlier today, Jet Airways' Deputy Chief Executive and Chief Financial Officer Amit Agarwal had also resigned. Indian Army to move air defence units closer to Pakistan border post-Balakot strikes After a deep internal review of the recent conflict with Pakistan, the Indian Army is planning to deploy a number of its air defence units close to the border to thwart aerial threats emanating from Pakistan. Prove I have benami property, money in foreign bank: PM Modi challenges Opposition Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday threw an open challenge to the Opposition to prove if he had amassed any assets or kept money in any foreign bank.

News brief: Big stories of the day

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/pm-modi-challenges-opposition-to-prove-if-he-amassed-assets-kept-money-in-foreign-bank-218697">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Tuesday congratulated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cyril-ramaphosas-anc-win-closely-watched-south-africa-poll-with-absolute-majority-217627">South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on being&nbsp;re-elected</a>, and also said that the relationship between the two countries will continue to grow deeper and stronger.

"Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to President @CyrilRamaphosa on his re-election. India and South Africa are close partners with many shared values and common interests. I am confident that our relationship will continue to grow deeper and stronger," Modi tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to President <a href="https://twitter.com/CyrilRamaphosa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CyrilRamaphosa</a> on his re-election. India and South Africa are close partners with many shared values and common interests. I am confident that our relationship will continue to grow deeper and stronger.
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1128239437836455937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Ramaphosa's ruling ANC won re-election last week with an absolute majority in parliament, results showed, but with diminished support, complicating economic revival and anti-corruption efforts.

The African National Congress (ANC) held a comfortable lead with 57.73 per cent after 95 per cent of voting districts were officially tallied following Wednesday's vote.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-election-ramaphosa-celebrates-election-victory-218237/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

President Ramaphosa, 66, took over last year when the ANC forced then-president Jacob Zuma to resign after nine years dominated by corruption allegations and economic decline.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday congratulated South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on being re-elected, and also said that the relationship between the two countries will continue to grow deeper and stronger.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday congratulated South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on being re-elected, and also said that the relationship between the two countries will continue to grow deeper and stronger. "Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to President @CyrilRamaphosa on his re-election. India and South Africa are close partners with many shared values and common interests. I am confident that our relationship will continue to grow deeper and stronger," Modi tweeted. Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to President @CyrilRamaphosa on his re-election. India and South Africa are close partners with many shared values and common interests. I am confident that our relationship will continue to grow deeper and stronger. — Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 14, 2019 × Ramaphosa's ruling ANC won re-election last week with an absolute majority in parliament, results showed, but with diminished support, complicating economic revival and anti-corruption efforts. The African National Congress (ANC) held a comfortable lead with 57.73 per cent after 95 per cent of voting districts were officially tallied following Wednesday's vote. President Ramaphosa, 66, took over last year when the ANC forced then-president Jacob Zuma to resign after nine years dominated by corruption allegations and economic decline.

PM Modi congratulates South African President Ramaphosa on being re-elected

Lashing out at the opposition parties, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/election-commission-swayed-by-pm-modi-alleges-national-congress-party-216713">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> said Tuesday the Congress and the RJD will push 21st century India into darkness if voted to power.

Addressing a rally here, Modi also claimed that it was just the "BJP-led NDA dispensation that could lead the nation towards the light".

"Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas (Development for all) is our mantra and we strive to ensure security and respect for all. The Mahamilawatis (opposition), on the other hand, think some castes are beholden to them," he said.

Iterating that it was his government that took on the terrorists and the trouble-mongers on both sides of the India-Pakistan border, Modi said, "The mahamilawatis, if elected to power, will give free licenses to stone-pelters, naxals and the tukde-tukde gang."

The opposition leaders will get a befitting reply from people after May 23, when the general election results are declared, he stated.

"Going by the response of people in the six phases of elections, it is clear&nbsp;that the opposition parties will face a humiliating defeat. Their anger has touched the seventh heaven now. They are trying to draw satisfaction from hurling abuses," he asserted.

The PM also insisted that he has always lived and worked for the country, without taking any break.

"Not for once have I lived for myself or my relatives during my tenure as the Gujarat chief minister or the prime minister. People of this country are my family," he added.

Lashing out at the opposition parties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Tuesday the Congress and the RJD will push 21st century India into darkness if voted to power.

Lashing out at the opposition parties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Tuesday the Congress and the RJD will push 21st century India into darkness if voted to power. Addressing a rally here, Modi also claimed that it was just the "BJP-led NDA dispensation that could lead the nation towards the light". "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas (Development for all) is our mantra and we strive to ensure security and respect for all. The Mahamilawatis (opposition), on the other hand, think some castes are beholden to them," he said. Iterating that it was his government that took on the terrorists and the trouble-mongers on both sides of the India-Pakistan border, Modi said, "The mahamilawatis, if elected to power, will give free licenses to stone-pelters, naxals and the tukde-tukde gang." The opposition leaders will get a befitting reply from people after May 23, when the general election results are declared, he stated. "Going by the response of people in the six phases of elections, it is clear that the opposition parties will face a humiliating defeat. Their anger has touched the seventh heaven now. They are trying to draw satisfaction from hurling abuses," he asserted. The PM also insisted that he has always lived and worked for the country, without taking any break. "Not for once have I lived for myself or my relatives during my tenure as the Gujarat chief minister or the prime minister. People of this country are my family," he added.

Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal will push 21st century India into darkness: PM Modi in Bihar

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/every-resident-contesting-on-my-behalf-pm-modis-emotional-message-to-varanasi-218651">Prime Minister Narendra Modi </a>on Tuesday threw an open challenge to the Opposition to prove if he had amassed any assets or kept money in any foreign bank.

Addressing an election meeting here, Modi said: "I throw an open challenge to these 'mahamilavati' (highly-adulterated) people to show if I have any benami property, farmhouse, shopping complex or money in any foreign bank, or whether I have purchased any property abroad or bought a luxury car."

The prime minister was here to seek support for BJP and NDA ally candidates in eastern Uttar Pradesh that go to polls in the seventh and last phase on Sunday.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-election-watch-pm-modi-slams-entire-opposition-218481/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The people will give a befitting reply through votes to the abuses hurled at me by these 'mahamilavati' parties," Modi said. "These 'mahamilavati' people dabble in caste politics and replenish their coffers, build bungalows and palaces for themselves and their relatives."

On the alliance between the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party, the prime minister claimed that the parties, which he said used to abuse each other, will again be at each other's throats the moment results are out.

"I have been the CM of Gujarat for more than the terms of Mayawati and Akhilesh Yadav combined (as Uttar Pradesh chief ministers).

"I have contested elections and made others contest, but never took the help of my caste (to garner votes)," Modi added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday threw an open challenge to the Opposition to prove if he had amassed any assets or kept money in any foreign bank. Addressing an election meeting here, Modi said: "I throw an open challenge to these 'mahamilavati' (highly-adulterated) people to show if I have any benami property, farmhouse, shopping complex or money in any foreign bank, or whether I have purchased any property abroad or bought a luxury car.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday threw an open challenge to the Opposition to prove if he had amassed any assets or kept money in any foreign bank. Addressing an election meeting here, Modi said: "I throw an open challenge to these 'mahamilavati' (highly-adulterated) people to show if I have any benami property, farmhouse, shopping complex or money in any foreign bank, or whether I have purchased any property abroad or bought a luxury car." The prime minister was here to seek support for BJP and NDA ally candidates in eastern Uttar Pradesh that go to polls in the seventh and last phase on Sunday. "The people will give a befitting reply through votes to the abuses hurled at me by these 'mahamilavati' parties," Modi said. "These 'mahamilavati' people dabble in caste politics and replenish their coffers, build bungalows and palaces for themselves and their relatives." On the alliance between the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party, the prime minister claimed that the parties, which he said used to abuse each other, will again be at each other's throats the moment results are out. "I have been the CM of Gujarat for more than the terms of Mayawati and Akhilesh Yadav combined (as Uttar Pradesh chief ministers). "I have contested elections and made others contest, but never took the help of my caste (to garner votes)," Modi added.

Prove I have benami property, money in foreign bank: PM Modi challenges Opposition

&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday took a dig out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his 'cloud-radar' remark, questioning him that whether all aircraft will disappear from the radar whenever it rains in India.

"Narendra Modi told officers and Air Chief of Air Force that 'it will be beneficial as radar will not be able to track aircraft in bad weather'.&nbsp;Narendra Modi ji, whenever it rains in India, do all the aircraft disappear from the radar?" Rahul said at a public rally Madhya Pradesh.

In a recent TV interview, Modi had said that a rainy was a better pick for Balakot strikes as the clouds could help IAF fighter jets evade detection by the Pakistani radar during the operation.

Raking up the issues of GST and demonetisation, Rahul claimed that the move by BJP "destroyed" the country's economy and snatched the jobs of 27,000 youth in 24 hours.

"Unemployment is at a 45-year high. When demonetisation and Gabbar Singh Tax came, the economy of our country got destroyed. About 27,000 youth lost their jobs in 24 hours," the Congress president said.

Commenting on the Mandsaur police firing case, in which six farmers had died in June 2017, Rahul alleged, "In Mandsaur, farmers were shot. They were crying for help. Modi ji had promised that he would be there for them.&nbsp;But when farmers were attacked he was nowhere to be seen."

Continuing his tirade against BJP, Rahul accused the ruling party of backtracking from their promise of assisting the farmers and instead waiving off crores of loans of businessmen like Anil Ambani and Nirav Modi.

"In Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, farmers requested you (Modi) to waive off their loans. But you said no. You said that I will waive off loans of thieves like Anil Ambani, Nirav Modi, Lalit Modi and Vijay Mallya," he said.

Rahul said that the promise of farm loan waiver was Modi's 'mann ki baat' and not of Congress.

"It was neither mine nor Kamal Nath's 'mann ki baat'. The farm loan waiver was Prime Minister's 'mann ki baat'. When a farmer is not able to repay a loan of Rs 20,000 crore to the bank, he is put behind bars. Is this correct? Nirav Modi took Rs 35,000 crore and fled to London. But he is not in jail. Not even Vijay Mallya and Lalit Modi," the Congress president said.

Rahul said that the Congress' NYAY scheme will not only help the poor, but&nbsp;will jumpstart the country's economy.

"Economists told me that without NYAY, economy cannot be back on track. They told me that it is not an option, you have to do it. So, I pushed forward this scheme which will ensure that every poor family will get Rs 3,60,000 in their bank accounts in five years," he further said.

Eight Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh will go to polls on May 19, which is the last phase of general elections. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday took a dig out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his 'cloud-radar' remark, questioning him that whether all aircraft will disappear from the radar whenever it rains in India.

Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday took a dig out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his 'cloud-radar' remark, questioning him that whether all aircraft will disappear from the radar whenever it rains in India. "Narendra Modi told officers and Air Chief of Air Force that 'it will be beneficial as radar will not be able to track aircraft in bad weather'. Narendra Modi ji, whenever it rains in India, do all the aircraft disappear from the radar?" Rahul said at a public rally Madhya Pradesh. In a recent TV interview, Modi had said that a rainy was a better pick for Balakot strikes as the clouds could help IAF fighter jets evade detection by the Pakistani radar during the operation. Raking up the issues of GST and demonetisation, Rahul claimed that the move by BJP "destroyed" the country's economy and snatched the jobs of 27,000 youth in 24 hours. "Unemployment is at a 45-year high. When demonetisation and Gabbar Singh Tax came, the economy of our country got destroyed. About 27,000 youth lost their jobs in 24 hours," the Congress president said. Commenting on the Mandsaur police firing case, in which six farmers had died in June 2017, Rahul alleged, "In Mandsaur, farmers were shot. They were crying for help. Modi ji had promised that he would be there for them. But when farmers were attacked he was nowhere to be seen." Continuing his tirade against BJP, Rahul accused the ruling party of backtracking from their promise of assisting the farmers and instead waiving off crores of loans of businessmen like Anil Ambani and Nirav Modi. "In Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, farmers requested you (Modi) to waive off their loans. But you said no. You said that I will waive off loans of thieves like Anil Ambani, Nirav Modi, Lalit Modi and Vijay Mallya," he said. Rahul said that the promise of farm loan waiver was Modi's 'mann ki baat' and not of Congress. "It was neither mine nor Kamal Nath's 'mann ki baat'. The farm loan waiver was Prime Minister's 'mann ki baat'. When a farmer is not able to repay a loan of Rs 20,000 crore to the bank, he is put behind bars. Is this correct? Nirav Modi took Rs 35,000 crore and fled to London. But he is not in jail. Not even Vijay Mallya and Lalit Modi," the Congress president said. Rahul said that the Congress' NYAY scheme will not only help the poor, but will jumpstart the country's economy. "Economists told me that without NYAY, economy cannot be back on track. They told me that it is not an option, you have to do it. So, I pushed forward this scheme which will ensure that every poor family will get Rs 3,60,000 in their bank accounts in five years," he further said. Eight Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh will go to polls on May 19, which is the last phase of general elections. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Will rain make aircraft disappear in India: Rahul Gandhi's dig at PM Modi

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-china-imposes-tariffs-on-60-billion-worth-of-us-goods-218421">Now, China imposes tariffs on $60 billion worth of US goods</a>

Shortly after Donald Trump said China should not impose tariffs against the US, China on Monday said it will impose tariffs on $60 billion worth of US goods from June 1.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-warns-of-conflict-by-accident-in-gulf-218331">Worried about risk of conflict happening by accident in Gulf region: UK foreign minister Jeremy Hunt</a>

British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt on Monday issued a stark warning of the dangers of conflict erupting "by accident" in the Gulf, as tensions between the United States and Iran soar.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swedish-rape-probe-against-assange-to-be-reopened-prosecutors-218320">Swedish rape probe against Julian Assange to be reopened: Prosecutors</a>

Swedish prosecutors on Monday announced that they will re-open the investigation into a rape allegation against WikiLeaks co-founder Julian Assange, who is as of now stopped at a high-security jail in the UK, the Swedish Prosecution Authority said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/you-should-be-ashamed-rahul-gandhi-hits-out-at-sam-pitroda-for-remarks-on-1984-riots-218338">You should be ashamed: Rahul Gandhi hits out at Sam Pitroda for remarks on 1984 riots</a>

With Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP continuing their attack on the Congress over Sam Pitroda's remarks on the 1984 riots, party chief Rahul Gandhi Monday said the leader should be ashamed of himself and seek apology from the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-intelligence-chief-caught-by-afghan-and-us-forces-in-baghlan-218333">Afghan Taliban intelligence chief caught in Baghlan</a>

US defence ministry said today that Afghan and US forces had caught Haji Mohammad Ramin, the intelligence chief of Taliban for northern Baghlan province.

Now, China imposes tariffs on $60 billion worth of US goods Shortly after Donald Trump said China should not impose tariffs against the US, China on Monday said it will impose tariffs on $60 billion worth of US goods from June 1.

Now, China imposes tariffs on $60 billion worth of US goods Shortly after Donald Trump said China should not impose tariffs against the US, China on Monday said it will impose tariffs on $60 billion worth of US goods from June 1. Worried about risk of conflict happening by accident in Gulf region: UK foreign minister Jeremy Hunt British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt on Monday issued a stark warning of the dangers of conflict erupting "by accident" in the Gulf, as tensions between the United States and Iran soar. Swedish rape probe against Julian Assange to be reopened: Prosecutors Swedish prosecutors on Monday announced that they will re-open the investigation into a rape allegation against WikiLeaks co-founder Julian Assange, who is as of now stopped at a high-security jail in the UK, the Swedish Prosecution Authority said in a statement. You should be ashamed: Rahul Gandhi hits out at Sam Pitroda for remarks on 1984 riots With Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP continuing their attack on the Congress over Sam Pitroda's remarks on the 1984 riots, party chief Rahul Gandhi Monday said the leader should be ashamed of himself and seek apology from the country. Afghan Taliban intelligence chief caught in Baghlan US defence ministry said today that Afghan and US forces had caught Haji Mohammad Ramin, the intelligence chief of Taliban for northern Baghlan province.

In the last leg of General Election campaign, Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-bjp-slam-pitroda-over-remarks-on-1984-anti-sikh-riots-congress-distances-itself-217586">Modi stepped up his attack on opposition parties</a> while addressing a rally in Madhya Pradesh's Ratlam city on Monday.

During his speech PM Modi said, the country is saying 'enough is enough to to the&nbsp;''mahamilavati'' <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/sp-bsp-incapable-of-handling-goons-how-will-they-combat-terrorism-pm-modi-218043">(highly adultered) people</a>&nbsp;while referring to Congress leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sam-pitroda-was-out-of-line-he-should-apologise-rahul-gandhi-on-remark-on-1984-anti-sikh-riots-217630">Sam Pitroda's 'hua to hua' remark</a> on 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

"These 'Mahamilavati' (highly adultered) people are saying 'hua toh hua'(happened, so what?), but the country is now saying 'mahamilavati logon ab bohot hua', (highly adultered people, enough is enough!)."

"Poor people who never got pucca houses, electricity, LPG, toilets during Congress era due to its hua to hua casual approach are now saying enough is enough,"&nbsp;he said.

"These three words, 'Hua to hua' (happened, so what?) are not just three words, they reflect the arrogance of Congress," PM Modi added.

Last week on Thursday, BJP, citing the Nanavati Commission report had said that "instructions to kill" came directly from then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's office.

In response to that, Pitroda, while rubbishing the allegations, had said, "I don't think so, this is also another lie, and what about 1984? You speak about what you have done in five years. It happened in 1984, so what? (1984 hua toh hua). &nbsp;PM Modi' comments were in reference to that.

Targeting the Kamal Nath government in MP over its alleged failure to implement its loan waiver promise in the state, Modi likened people to God and said, "The Congress cheated God."

He said the Congress had a problem saying 'Bharat Mata ki Jai', but was happily abusing him.

Modi also took a jibe at Congress veteran Digvijay Singh, who is contesting the Lok Sabha polls from Bhopal, for not casting his vote.

The last phase of Lok Sabha polls in the state will be held on May 19 and the counting will be done on May 23. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In the last leg of General Election campaign, Prime Minister Modi stepped up his attack on opposition parties while addressing a rally in Madhya Pradesh's Ratlam city on Monday.

In the last leg of General Election campaign, Prime Minister Modi stepped up his attack on opposition parties while addressing a rally in Madhya Pradesh's Ratlam city on Monday. During his speech PM Modi said, the country is saying 'enough is enough to to the ''mahamilavati'' (highly adultered) people while referring to Congress leader Sam Pitroda's 'hua to hua' remark on 1984 anti-Sikh riots. "These 'Mahamilavati' (highly adultered) people are saying 'hua toh hua'(happened, so what?), but the country is now saying 'mahamilavati logon ab bohot hua', (highly adultered people, enough is enough!)." "Poor people who never got pucca houses, electricity, LPG, toilets during Congress era due to its hua to hua casual approach are now saying enough is enough," he said. "These three words, 'Hua to hua' (happened, so what?) are not just three words, they reflect the arrogance of Congress," PM Modi added. Last week on Thursday, BJP, citing the Nanavati Commission report had said that "instructions to kill" came directly from then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's office. In response to that, Pitroda, while rubbishing the allegations, had said, "I don't think so, this is also another lie, and what about 1984? You speak about what you have done in five years. It happened in 1984, so what? (1984 hua toh hua). PM Modi' comments were in reference to that. Targeting the Kamal Nath government in MP over its alleged failure to implement its loan waiver promise in the state, Modi likened people to God and said, "The Congress cheated God." He said the Congress had a problem saying 'Bharat Mata ki Jai', but was happily abusing him. Modi also took a jibe at Congress veteran Digvijay Singh, who is contesting the Lok Sabha polls from Bhopal, for not casting his vote. The last phase of Lok Sabha polls in the state will be held on May 19 and the counting will be done on May 23. (With inputs from agencies)

Poor people are saying 'enough is enough' to Congress due to its casual approach: PM Modi in Madhya Pradesh rally

The elections are almost over. After exhaustive campaigning of more than seven weeks, the D-Day is approaching fast for all the political parties. So how did this election pan out? What's at stake? And which issues dominated the campaign? Here are the big takeaways from the seven-phase-long marathon election exercise:

Unabashed Hindutva

Unlike 2014, when the punch line was 'Gujarat model' and 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas'. 2019 election was untamed and unabashed Hindutva. The ruling party crossed certain lines which were not to be seen post-Babri Masjid demolition.&nbsp;

Most politicians, accused in the demolition row, went on to enjoy successful careers but none of them was charged under terror laws. The Ayodhya agitation remained a matter of faith and criminal cases revolved around the issue of law and order. Meanwhile, Pragya Singh was charged under terror laws and even then BJP gave her the ticket. The idea was to send a clear message that &nbsp;BJP’s first commitment remains the idea of undivided Hindu vote. It is for this reason, BJP by giving a ticket to Pragya Singh Thakur crossed the Rubicon where the idea of Hindu victimhood was enshrined on Pragya's living body.

This a big change from Vajpayee’s politics which looked for moderation once BJP acquired power. Throughout elections, BJP ensured that core voter remains mobilised on Hindutva even if a section of the middle class feels alienated. The question is whether mobilisation on the line of hard Hindutva ends up creating a stronger counter mobilisation or not? If the former stays strong then, BJP will be unaffected in Uttar Pradesh and if latter is the truth then BJP’s number, overall, will come down substantially in Lok Sabha.

For Modi or Against Modi but Only Modi

This is the first election which, in a small way, mimics 1989 election when Congress projected Rajiv Gandhi as the tallest leader and every other Opposition leader as an opportunist who by coming together wanted to defeat Congress party.&nbsp;

Well, Congress lost the election and rest remains history. The fact is that this election has only revolved around Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Even the major Opposition party, Congress, has not once said that Rahul Gandhi is the Prime Ministerial candidate. In almost all the interview, he has given, Rahul Gandhi has only spoken about ways to stop Modi but not once, he or his party has claimed that they have the capacity to cross 200 plus seats. The best bet for the Congress is to break into triple digits and ensure that Modi does not become the Prime Minister. The bottom line of the political discourse through the month has been that you can love Modi or hate Modi, but you cannot ignore Modi. So, people will either vote for Modi or against Modi, but he remains the cornerstone of the discourse.

Harvest Areas

Many political pundits ignore this aspect of politics. Generally, the focus remains on constituencies which a party can win. BJP, like Congress in past, has focused on constituencies it has not won before and has drawn a list of 150 such seats. Not only BJP has focused on the non-traditional seats, but it has also doubled its efforts in non-traditional areas like Kerala, West Bengal and Odisha, this time around. In case, BJP gets a simple majority on its own, the performance in these areas would require closer examination.&nbsp;

Congress surge in 2009 also took place on similar lines. Congress was able to win seats which they had not won in the past 20 years in both Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Mandsaur Lok Sabha constituency in Madhya Pradesh and constituencies like Ballia and Maharajganj in Uttar Pradesh are examples in case.&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi too made an attempt to repeat the same in 2012 assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh by identifying tough seats but failed for the lack of clear leadership in the state. Congress has failed to reinvent its self in states which it has lost to regional parties. The latest example is that of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. BJP, on the other hand, has organisationally expanded into unchartered waters like North East and swept states like Tripura and Assam

Priyanka’s Launch

She was the surprise package and help for much occupied Rahul Gandhi. It is difficult to say as to how much impact she has had on the electorate, but she definitely chewed into the media space of BJP. My personal opinion is that her campaign had no impact in the Eastern Uttar Pradesh, but she did provide much-required publicity to the Congress Party. She was able to enthuse party workers in Uttar Pradesh and create a positive during her campaign. In fact, she generated more publicity than Rahul Gandhi during her tours in Uttar Pradesh.

Agriculture is Back

After two long decades, agriculture as an electoral issue is back on the drawing table. From 1991 onwards, agriculture faded away from active public discourse with the emerging middle class and economic liberalisation. Even the tag lines reflected the new mood which ranged from Shining India to 'Congress ka Hath Aam Aadmi Ke Saath' to 'Singh is King' to 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas'. After shocking defeat in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, BJP had to go back to the drawing room and ended up announcing massive subsidies to counter Congress whose campaign was only around waiver of farmers debt. It led to a large number of editorials being written on the farming community and new policy, required to end the agricultural crisis.

Regional Parties: Restoration of Balance?

For the first time after 1996, regional parties can play a big role in making of the new government. In likely hood, NDA++ is expected to form the government but regional players will have a strong say. DMK, TMC, YSRCP, TRS, BJD and SP-BSP alliance will play an important role in the formation of the government in New Delhi. SP-BSP can be a deal breaker and YSRCP and TRS may end up providing oxygen to NDA, if it falls short of majority though, as of now, TRS is campaigning for a Federal Front. 
 
This list can grow if&nbsp;BJD also decides to support BJP but the fact remains that regional parties will have a lot say in this election.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

The elections are almost over. After exhaustive campaigning of more than seven weeks, the D-Day is approaching fast for all the political parties. So how did this election pan out?

The elections are almost over. After exhaustive campaigning of more than seven weeks, the D-Day is approaching fast for all the political parties. So how did this election pan out? What's at stake? And which issues dominated the campaign? Here are the big takeaways from the seven-phase-long marathon election exercise: Unabashed Hindutva Unlike 2014, when the punch line was 'Gujarat model' and 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas'. 2019 election was untamed and unabashed Hindutva. The ruling party crossed certain lines which were not to be seen post-Babri Masjid demolition. Most politicians, accused in the demolition row, went on to enjoy successful careers but none of them was charged under terror laws. The Ayodhya agitation remained a matter of faith and criminal cases revolved around the issue of law and order. Meanwhile, Pragya Singh was charged under terror laws and even then BJP gave her the ticket. The idea was to send a clear message that BJP’s first commitment remains the idea of undivided Hindu vote. It is for this reason, BJP by giving a ticket to Pragya Singh Thakur crossed the Rubicon where the idea of Hindu victimhood was enshrined on Pragya's living body. This a big change from Vajpayee’s politics which looked for moderation once BJP acquired power. Throughout elections, BJP ensured that core voter remains mobilised on Hindutva even if a section of the middle class feels alienated. The question is whether mobilisation on the line of hard Hindutva ends up creating a stronger counter mobilisation or not? If the former stays strong then, BJP will be unaffected in Uttar Pradesh and if latter is the truth then BJP’s number, overall, will come down substantially in Lok Sabha. For Modi or Against Modi but Only Modi This is the first election which, in a small way, mimics 1989 election when Congress projected Rajiv Gandhi as the tallest leader and every other Opposition leader as an opportunist who by coming together wanted to defeat Congress party. Well, Congress lost the election and rest remains history. The fact is that this election has only revolved around Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Even the major Opposition party, Congress, has not once said that Rahul Gandhi is the Prime Ministerial candidate. In almost all the interview, he has given, Rahul Gandhi has only spoken about ways to stop Modi but not once, he or his party has claimed that they have the capacity to cross 200 plus seats. The best bet for the Congress is to break into triple digits and ensure that Modi does not become the Prime Minister. The bottom line of the political discourse through the month has been that you can love Modi or hate Modi, but you cannot ignore Modi. So, people will either vote for Modi or against Modi, but he remains the cornerstone of the discourse. Harvest Areas Many political pundits ignore this aspect of politics. Generally, the focus remains on constituencies which a party can win. BJP, like Congress in past, has focused on constituencies it has not won before and has drawn a list of 150 such seats. Not only BJP has focused on the non-traditional seats, but it has also doubled its efforts in non-traditional areas like Kerala, West Bengal and Odisha, this time around. In case, BJP gets a simple majority on its own, the performance in these areas would require closer examination. Congress surge in 2009 also took place on similar lines. Congress was able to win seats which they had not won in the past 20 years in both Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Mandsaur Lok Sabha constituency in Madhya Pradesh and constituencies like Ballia and Maharajganj in Uttar Pradesh are examples in case. Congress president Rahul Gandhi too made an attempt to repeat the same in 2012 assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh by identifying tough seats but failed for the lack of clear leadership in the state. Congress has failed to reinvent its self in states which it has lost to regional parties. The latest example is that of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. BJP, on the other hand, has organisationally expanded into unchartered waters like North East and swept states like Tripura and Assam Priyanka’s Launch She was the surprise package and help for much occupied Rahul Gandhi. It is difficult to say as to how much impact she has had on the electorate, but she definitely chewed into the media space of BJP. My personal opinion is that her campaign had no impact in the Eastern Uttar Pradesh, but she did provide much-required publicity to the Congress Party. She was able to enthuse party workers in Uttar Pradesh and create a positive during her campaign. In fact, she generated more publicity than Rahul Gandhi during her tours in Uttar Pradesh. Agriculture is Back After two long decades, agriculture as an electoral issue is back on the drawing table. From 1991 onwards, agriculture faded away from active public discourse with the emerging middle class and economic liberalisation. Even the tag lines reflected the new mood which ranged from Shining India to 'Congress ka Hath Aam Aadmi Ke Saath' to 'Singh is King' to 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas'. After shocking defeat in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, BJP had to go back to the drawing room and ended up announcing massive subsidies to counter Congress whose campaign was only around waiver of farmers debt. It led to a large number of editorials being written on the farming community and new policy, required to end the agricultural crisis. Regional Parties: Restoration of Balance? For the first time after 1996, regional parties can play a big role in making of the new government. In likely hood, NDA++ is expected to form the government but regional players will have a strong say. DMK, TMC, YSRCP, TRS, BJD and SP-BSP alliance will play an important role in the formation of the government in New Delhi. SP-BSP can be a deal breaker and YSRCP and TRS may end up providing oxygen to NDA, if it falls short of majority though, as of now, TRS is campaigning for a Federal Front. This list can grow if BJD also decides to support BJP but the fact remains that regional parties will have a lot say in this election. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Five key takeaways

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

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

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

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

In pics: Key constituencies in Phase 6 of Lok Sabha polls

Union Minister Smriti Irani took a veiled jibe at Congress president Rahul Gandhi and its general secretary Priyanka Gandhi saying that they are people who wear "janeu" once in five years and come for "Ganga-darshan" only during elections.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi served nation and hypocrites, mahamilawati (&nbsp;(highly adulterated))&nbsp;people and corrupt Congress didn't give him anything else except insults. They are people who wear a 'janeu' (scared thread)&nbsp;once in 5 years, who go on foreign tours for 5 years and come for 'darshan'&nbsp;of Ganga at the time of elections," she said without naming anyone while addressing an election rally here on Friday.

The Union Minister also criticised Priyanka for choosing not to contest from Varanasi Lok Sabha seat.

"They go to Ayodhya but don't bow their heads before Ram Lalla as they remember their vote bank. They're people who ask in Amethi if they should contest from Varanasi but when it is time to draw swords in the battlefield, they leave not only Varanasi and Amethi but go to Wayanad," said Smriti Irani.

It was widely speculated that Congress might field Priyanka Gandhi from Varanasi. Priyanka had also expressed her desire to contest from Varanasi.

However, Congress party chose to field Ajay Rai from Varanasi.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi is contesting from two Lok Sabha seats-- Amethi and Wayanad.

Varanasi will go to polls in the last phase on May 7.&nbsp; The counting of votes will be done on May 23.&nbsp;

Union Minister Smriti Irani took a veiled jibe at Congress president Rahul Gandhi and its general secretary Priyanka Gandhi saying that they are people who wear "janeu" once in five years and come for "Ganga-darshan" only during elections.

Union Minister Smriti Irani took a veiled jibe at Congress president Rahul Gandhi and its general secretary Priyanka Gandhi saying that they are people who wear "janeu" once in five years and come for "Ganga-darshan" only during elections. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi served nation and hypocrites, mahamilawati ( (highly adulterated)) people and corrupt Congress didn't give him anything else except insults. They are people who wear a 'janeu' (scared thread) once in 5 years, who go on foreign tours for 5 years and come for 'darshan' of Ganga at the time of elections," she said without naming anyone while addressing an election rally here on Friday. The Union Minister also criticised Priyanka for choosing not to contest from Varanasi Lok Sabha seat. "They go to Ayodhya but don't bow their heads before Ram Lalla as they remember their vote bank. They're people who ask in Amethi if they should contest from Varanasi but when it is time to draw swords in the battlefield, they leave not only Varanasi and Amethi but go to Wayanad," said Smriti Irani. It was widely speculated that Congress might field Priyanka Gandhi from Varanasi. Priyanka had also expressed her desire to contest from Varanasi. However, Congress party chose to field Ajay Rai from Varanasi. Congress president Rahul Gandhi is contesting from two Lok Sabha seats-- Amethi and Wayanad. Varanasi will go to polls in the last phase on May 7. The counting of votes will be done on May 23.

They're people who wear 'janeu' once in 5 years: Smriti Irani takes dig at Rahul Gandhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi renewed his attack on Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy over the latter's comment on soldiers that "only people who cannot make a livelihood, join Army".

"Congress made a person Chief Minister whose father was the Prime Minister. A few days ago, he said that only those who die of hunger, join the Army," PM Modi said at a rally here on Friday.

He said, "You tell me - do mothers of Himachal Pradesh send their sons to Army because they cannot feed their sons? Is it not an insult to the mothers and brave men of Himachal?"

While addressing a public rally in Madduru on April 11, Kumaraswamy had said, "Those who safeguard the borders are not children of rich people. They are children from poor families who cannot afford two square meals. However, here is a Prime Minister who politicises their ultimate sacrifice."

A video clip of Kumaraswamy's remark was later tweeted from the official handle of Karnataka BJP.

The Chief Minister, however, denied having made any such comment and accused the BJP of distorting the original video.

"BJP is up to their old tricks again. They posted another edited video with false interpretation to malign me. I had said that not all who join defence forces are rich. The PM should not play with the lives of jawans to get votes. I never said that jawans are in the army just for livelihood," he had tweeted.

The same video clip was referred by Prime Minister Modi at a rally on April 12.

PM Modi had said,&nbsp;"You (Kumaraswamy) can't escape saying your statement was misinterpreted. You said what was there in your heart. It is such an insult to the armed forces of the country."

PM Modi at his rally in Mandi alleged that Congress does not take pride in brave acts carried out by the armed forces personnel.

"Entire country is proud of India`s prowess but Congress cannot digest it. They do not trust our brave sons," he said.

Modi accused the grand old party of abusing him for allowing the armed forces to conduct cross border operations.

He said,&nbsp;"In 2016, when brave sons of India carried out a surgical strike, Congress namdar started abusing me, instead of Pakistan. After (Balakot) air strike, Congress namdar and his courtiers are engaged in abusing Modi."

"Do not forget that Congress and its 'mahamilavati'&nbsp;(highly adulterated) allies publicly called the Army chief a 'gali ka gunda'. They call IAF chief a 'liar'," Modi added.

He also raised the 1984 Sikh riots issue to attack the Congress.

All four Lok Sabha seats of Himachal Pradesh will go to polls in the last phase of seven-phase elections on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi renewed his attack on Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy over the latter's comment on soldiers that "only people who cannot make a livelihood, join Army".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi renewed his attack on Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy over the latter's comment on soldiers that "only people who cannot make a livelihood, join Army". "Congress made a person Chief Minister whose father was the Prime Minister. A few days ago, he said that only those who die of hunger, join the Army," PM Modi said at a rally here on Friday. He said, "You tell me - do mothers of Himachal Pradesh send their sons to Army because they cannot feed their sons? Is it not an insult to the mothers and brave men of Himachal?" While addressing a public rally in Madduru on April 11, Kumaraswamy had said, "Those who safeguard the borders are not children of rich people. They are children from poor families who cannot afford two square meals. However, here is a Prime Minister who politicises their ultimate sacrifice." A video clip of Kumaraswamy's remark was later tweeted from the official handle of Karnataka BJP. The Chief Minister, however, denied having made any such comment and accused the BJP of distorting the original video. "BJP is up to their old tricks again. They posted another edited video with false interpretation to malign me. I had said that not all who join defence forces are rich. The PM should not play with the lives of jawans to get votes. I never said that jawans are in the army just for livelihood," he had tweeted. The same video clip was referred by Prime Minister Modi at a rally on April 12. PM Modi had said, "You (Kumaraswamy) can't escape saying your statement was misinterpreted. You said what was there in your heart. It is such an insult to the armed forces of the country." PM Modi at his rally in Mandi alleged that Congress does not take pride in brave acts carried out by the armed forces personnel. "Entire country is proud of India`s prowess but Congress cannot digest it. They do not trust our brave sons," he said. Modi accused the grand old party of abusing him for allowing the armed forces to conduct cross border operations. He said, "In 2016, when brave sons of India carried out a surgical strike, Congress namdar started abusing me, instead of Pakistan. After (Balakot) air strike, Congress namdar and his courtiers are engaged in abusing Modi." "Do not forget that Congress and its 'mahamilavati' (highly adulterated) allies publicly called the Army chief a 'gali ka gunda'. They call IAF chief a 'liar'," Modi added. He also raised the 1984 Sikh riots issue to attack the Congress. All four Lok Sabha seats of Himachal Pradesh will go to polls in the last phase of seven-phase elections on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

PM Modi renews attack on Karnataka CM Kumaraswamy over his comment on Army

The Election Commission (EC) issued a fresh notice to Punjab minister Navjot Singh Sidhu on Friday over his "objectionable comments" against Prime Minister Narendra Modi which, it said, prima facie violated the Model Code of Conduct.

Sidhu has been given 24 hours time to respond to the notice.

"The Commission, after considering the available material and extant provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and instructions in the matter, has decided to provide an opportunity to Shri Navjot Singh Sidhu, the star campaigner, Indian National Congress to submit his explanation, if any, in the matter within 24 hours of receipt of this notice failing which the Commission shall take a decision without further reference to him," the EC said in the notice.

The poll body had received a complaint from the BJP alleging that the Congress leader made disparaging remarks about PM Modi at a rally in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, on April 29.

The notice said, "A complaint dated April 30 was received in the commission from Shri Neeraj, member, Election Commission Committee, Bharatiya Janata Party, alleging that Shri Navjot Singh Sidhu, has made the objectionable statement against Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at a public meeting on April 29 at Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.

"The Congress leader had accused Prime Minister Modi of "benefitting businessman Anil Ambani and making money in the Rafale jet deal" and "doing politics on the corpses of martyrs".

He had also termed Modi as the "biggest traitor" of the country.

The Congress leader was barred from campaigning for 72 hours last month for allegedly warning Muslims in Bihar not to let their votes split and defeat the BJP by voting against it unitedly.

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The Election Commission (EC) issued a fresh notice to Punjab minister Navjot Singh Sidhu on Friday over his "objectionable comments" against Prime Minister Narendra Modi which, it said, prima facie violated the Model Code of Conduct.

The Election Commission (EC) issued a fresh notice to Punjab minister Navjot Singh Sidhu on Friday over his "objectionable comments" against Prime Minister Narendra Modi which, it said, prima facie violated the Model Code of Conduct. Sidhu has been given 24 hours time to respond to the notice. "The Commission, after considering the available material and extant provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and instructions in the matter, has decided to provide an opportunity to Shri Navjot Singh Sidhu, the star campaigner, Indian National Congress to submit his explanation, if any, in the matter within 24 hours of receipt of this notice failing which the Commission shall take a decision without further reference to him," the EC said in the notice. The poll body had received a complaint from the BJP alleging that the Congress leader made disparaging remarks about PM Modi at a rally in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, on April 29. The notice said, "A complaint dated April 30 was received in the commission from Shri Neeraj, member, Election Commission Committee, Bharatiya Janata Party, alleging that Shri Navjot Singh Sidhu, has made the objectionable statement against Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at a public meeting on April 29 at Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. "The Congress leader had accused Prime Minister Modi of "benefitting businessman Anil Ambani and making money in the Rafale jet deal" and "doing politics on the corpses of martyrs". He had also termed Modi as the "biggest traitor" of the country. The Congress leader was barred from campaigning for 72 hours last month for allegedly warning Muslims in Bihar not to let their votes split and defeat the BJP by voting against it unitedly. ×

Election Commission issues fresh notice to Sidhu over 'objectionable comments' against PM Modi

India and the United Kingdom on Friday agreed to increase their collaboration in the fields of Indo-Pacific cooperation, climate change, disaster resilience, development in third world countries amongst other areas.

The two countries held Foreign Office consultations, where the Indian side was led by Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale and the UK side was represented by Sir Simon McDonald, Permanent Under-Secretary, Foreign and Commonwealth Office of British Government, according to a statement by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

"The consultations provided an opportunity to review the entire range of bilateral relations, including political, economic, commercial, scientific, regional and international cooperation, including Commonwealth," it added.

Both sides expressed satisfaction on the level of political exchanges and decided to further intensify them in the coming months, the statement noted.

The instrument of ratification of the UK joining the International Solar Alliance was formally handed over during the consultations. 
&nbsp;

India and the United Kingdom on Friday agreed to increase their collaboration in the fields of Indo-Pacific cooperation, climate change, disaster resilience, development in third world countries amongst other areas.

India and the United Kingdom on Friday agreed to increase their collaboration in the fields of Indo-Pacific cooperation, climate change, disaster resilience, development in third world countries amongst other areas. The two countries held Foreign Office consultations, where the Indian side was led by Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale and the UK side was represented by Sir Simon McDonald, Permanent Under-Secretary, Foreign and Commonwealth Office of British Government, according to a statement by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). "The consultations provided an opportunity to review the entire range of bilateral relations, including political, economic, commercial, scientific, regional and international cooperation, including Commonwealth," it added. Both sides expressed satisfaction on the level of political exchanges and decided to further intensify them in the coming months, the statement noted. The instrument of ratification of the UK joining the International Solar Alliance was formally handed over during the consultations.

India, UK agree to boost Indo-Pacific cooperation

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/vajpayee-government-conducted-nuclear-tests-20-years-back-other-governments-never-had-similar-courage-pm-modi-217767">Vajpayee govt conducted nuclear tests 20 years ago, other governments never had similar courage: PM Modi&nbsp;</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India was able to successfully carry out nuclear test - Operation Shakti - over two decades ago on this very day because the government was courageous enough to undertake such a task.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-journalist-shot-dead-by-unidentified-gunmen-217785">Afghanistan: Journalist shot dead by unidentified gunmen</a>

An Afghani journalist and a cultural adviser to the Parliament was shot dead by unidentified gunmen in the eastern part of Kabul on Sunday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemen-government-accuses-rebels-of-ploy-over-ports-pullout-217817">Yemen government accuses rebels of 'ploy' over ports pullout</a>

A senior pro-government official accused Yemen's Huthi rebels of faking an announced pullout from three strategic ports in Hodeida province on Saturday.

"The Huthis are staging a new ploy by handing over the ports of Hodeida, Saleef and Ras Issa to themselves without any monitoring by the United Nations and the government side," provincial governor Al-Hasan Taher told AFP.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/5-ttp-terrorists-killed-in-us-drone-attack-on-afghanistan-pakistan-border-217753">5 TTP terrorists killed in US drone attack on Afghanistan-Pakistan border</a>

At least five terrorists belong to Hafiz Gul Bahadur group of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) killed following a US drone attack on &nbsp;Afghanistan-Pakistan border.

The drone attack took place at Laman, in the Afghanistan territory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ib-issues-alert-of-fidayeen-attack-on-buddha-purnima-in-west-bengal-bangladesh-security-beefed-up-217640">IB issues alert of fidayeen attack on Buddha Purnima in West Bengal, Bangladesh; security beefs up</a>

The Central Intelligence Bureau (IB) has issued an alert, warning of a fidayeen attack by Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) or Islamic State (IS) on the occasion of Buddha Purnima at West Bengal or Bangladesh, according to the sources in Intelligence Bureau.

Vajpayee govt conducted nuclear tests 20 years ago, other governments never had similar courage: PM Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India was able to successfully carry out nuclear test - Operation Shakti - over two decades ago on this very day because the government was courageous enough to undertake such a task.

Vajpayee govt conducted nuclear tests 20 years ago, other governments never had similar courage: PM Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India was able to successfully carry out nuclear test - Operation Shakti - over two decades ago on this very day because the government was courageous enough to undertake such a task. Afghanistan: Journalist shot dead by unidentified gunmen An Afghani journalist and a cultural adviser to the Parliament was shot dead by unidentified gunmen in the eastern part of Kabul on Sunday. Yemen government accuses rebels of 'ploy' over ports pullout A senior pro-government official accused Yemen's Huthi rebels of faking an announced pullout from three strategic ports in Hodeida province on Saturday. "The Huthis are staging a new ploy by handing over the ports of Hodeida, Saleef and Ras Issa to themselves without any monitoring by the United Nations and the government side," provincial governor Al-Hasan Taher told AFP. 5 TTP terrorists killed in US drone attack on Afghanistan-Pakistan border At least five terrorists belong to Hafiz Gul Bahadur group of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) killed following a US drone attack on Afghanistan-Pakistan border. The drone attack took place at Laman, in the Afghanistan territory. IB issues alert of fidayeen attack on Buddha Purnima in West Bengal, Bangladesh; security beefs up The Central Intelligence Bureau (IB) has issued an alert, warning of a fidayeen attack by Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) or Islamic State (IS) on the occasion of Buddha Purnima at West Bengal or Bangladesh, according to the sources in Intelligence Bureau.

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