The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notice to Election Commission of India after hearing Congress MP Sushmita Dev's petition against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah for allegedly violating model code of conduct which is in place due to ongoing Lok Sabha polls in the country. 
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Dev, Congress MP and president of the party's women's wing, had moved Supreme Court alleging PM Modi and Shah violated model code of conduct through their campaigning for elections. Dev also sought direction from the court to the Election Commission to decide without any "demur" the complaints against PM Modi and Amit Shah. 
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Dev alleged in her petition that "inaction" by EC on complaints against top BJP leaders was "a sign of invidious discrimination" and was "arbitrary, capricious and impermissible" as it was destructive of the integrity of electoral process. 
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"It is in public domain that they have indulged in hate speeches, repeatedly used the armed forces for political propaganda, despite a clear prohibition on the same by the EC," Dev said in her petition. 
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"The lack of decision despite cogent evidences, representations and exhortations to the Respondent/ECI demonstrates abdication and indecision and a complete absence of justice, in ensuring a level playing field in ensuing general elections for the Lok Sabha. The inactions, omissions and commissions by the Respondent/ECI are in complete and direct violation of Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution and which are impeding free, fair and unbiased general elections," the petition said. 
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The plea further said that under the Constitution, the poll panel is the "watchdog of free and fair elections and is duty-bound to circumvent the pressure and ascertain that ensuing elections are free from any impediments in order to uphold the democratic sanctity and fundamental rights of the voter". 
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The court has posted the case for hearing on May 2.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notice to Election Commission of India after hearing Congress MP Sushmita Dev's petition against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah for allegedly violating model code of conduct which is in place due to ongoing Lok Sabha polls in the country.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notice to Election Commission of India after hearing Congress MP Sushmita Dev's petition against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah for allegedly violating model code of conduct which is in place due to ongoing Lok Sabha polls in the country. Dev, Congress MP and president of the party's women's wing, had moved Supreme Court alleging PM Modi and Shah violated model code of conduct through their campaigning for elections. Dev also sought direction from the court to the Election Commission to decide without any "demur" the complaints against PM Modi and Amit Shah. Dev alleged in her petition that "inaction" by EC on complaints against top BJP leaders was "a sign of invidious discrimination" and was "arbitrary, capricious and impermissible" as it was destructive of the integrity of electoral process. "It is in public domain that they have indulged in hate speeches, repeatedly used the armed forces for political propaganda, despite a clear prohibition on the same by the EC," Dev said in her petition. "The lack of decision despite cogent evidences, representations and exhortations to the Respondent/ECI demonstrates abdication and indecision and a complete absence of justice, in ensuring a level playing field in ensuing general elections for the Lok Sabha. The inactions, omissions and commissions by the Respondent/ECI are in complete and direct violation of Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution and which are impeding free, fair and unbiased general elections," the petition said. The plea further said that under the Constitution, the poll panel is the "watchdog of free and fair elections and is duty-bound to circumvent the pressure and ascertain that ensuing elections are free from any impediments in order to uphold the democratic sanctity and fundamental rights of the voter". The court has posted the case for hearing on May 2.

Supreme Court issues notice to Election Commission on complaint against PM Modi, Amit Shah

The Supreme Court on Tuesday lashed out at Rahul Gandhi on the affidavit that the Congress president has filed in connection with the court's April 10 verdict on Rafale case.

"You took 22 pages in the affidavit to express regret? We refrained from saying anything further in the last hearing but this is your second affidavit. You attributed the comment to us and now you are trying to justify?" the bench headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi said.

The bench asked Gandhi to file another affidavit and posted the matter for hearing on May 6.

Gandhi filed a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-counter-affidavit-in-supreme-court-rahul-gandhi-again-regrets-chowkidar-chor-hai-comment-214344">second affidavit in the court</a> on Monday reiterating his stand and again expressing regret on his remarks on the Rafale verdict. Gandhi said that unfortunate references to the court order and juxtaposition of the political slogan in the same breath ought not to be construed as suggesting that the court had given any finding or conclusion on that issue.

"It is unfortunate that this slogan got intermingled with my comments on and references to the apex court's order. My statement was made in the heat of political campaigning," he said in his affidavit.

After the court rap today, Gandhi's lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi - appearing on his behalf - told the bench, "There's nothing wrong in the affidavit but allow me to rectify. I will apologise. I made error. For 18 months I have been trying to say that the PM and other party workers are complicit, hence the comment (chowkidar chor hai)."

During the course of the hearing, lawyer Mukul Rohatgi said, "He says he is a literate person and then doesn't read the Rafale order copy. He has deliberately put words in the mouth of Supreme Court for political gains, to say 'look the Supreme Court said this'. It's deliberate and completely irresponsible."

Rohatgi is representing BJP MP Meenakshi Lekhi who has filed the petition against Gandhi for calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi a thief and attributing his remark to Supreme Court's judgement.

The Congress president had claimed that the apex court has made it "clear" that Prime Minister Narendra Modi "committed a theft". He had made the statement while interacting with reporters in Amethi after filing his nomination papers.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday lashed out at Rahul Gandhi on the affidavit that the Congress president has filed in connection with the court's April 10 verdict on Rafale case.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday lashed out at Rahul Gandhi on the affidavit that the Congress president has filed in connection with the court's April 10 verdict on Rafale case. "You took 22 pages in the affidavit to express regret? We refrained from saying anything further in the last hearing but this is your second affidavit. You attributed the comment to us and now you are trying to justify?" the bench headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi said. The bench asked Gandhi to file another affidavit and posted the matter for hearing on May 6. Gandhi filed a second affidavit in the court on Monday reiterating his stand and again expressing regret on his remarks on the Rafale verdict. Gandhi said that unfortunate references to the court order and juxtaposition of the political slogan in the same breath ought not to be construed as suggesting that the court had given any finding or conclusion on that issue. "It is unfortunate that this slogan got intermingled with my comments on and references to the apex court's order. My statement was made in the heat of political campaigning," he said in his affidavit. After the court rap today, Gandhi's lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi - appearing on his behalf - told the bench, "There's nothing wrong in the affidavit but allow me to rectify. I will apologise. I made error. For 18 months I have been trying to say that the PM and other party workers are complicit, hence the comment (chowkidar chor hai)." During the course of the hearing, lawyer Mukul Rohatgi said, "He says he is a literate person and then doesn't read the Rafale order copy. He has deliberately put words in the mouth of Supreme Court for political gains, to say 'look the Supreme Court said this'. It's deliberate and completely irresponsible." Rohatgi is representing BJP MP Meenakshi Lekhi who has filed the petition against Gandhi for calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi a thief and attributing his remark to Supreme Court's judgement. The Congress president had claimed that the apex court has made it "clear" that Prime Minister Narendra Modi "committed a theft". He had made the statement while interacting with reporters in Amethi after filing his nomination papers.

Made error, will apologise for 'chowkidar chor hai' comment: Rahul Gandhi to Supreme Court

Expressing concern over the situation arising due to Cyclone Fani, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he had spoken to officials to take preventive measure and provide assistance.&nbsp;

Cyclone Fani, that has been gaining strength in the south-east Bay of Bengal, is likely to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm in the next 24 hours, the weather department said on Sunday.&nbsp;

It is likely to bring light to moderate rain across Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh over the next two days.

"Spoke to officials regarding the situation arising due to Cyclone Fani. Asked them to take preventive measures and be prepared to provide all possible assistance. Also urged them to work closely with Governments of the affected states. Praying for everyone's safety and wellbeing," Modi tweeted.&nbsp;

Expressing concern over the situation arising due to Cyclone Fani, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he had spoken to officials to take preventive measure and provide assistance.

Expressing concern over the situation arising due to Cyclone Fani, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he had spoken to officials to take preventive measure and provide assistance. Cyclone Fani, that has been gaining strength in the south-east Bay of Bengal, is likely to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm in the next 24 hours, the weather department said on Sunday. It is likely to bring light to moderate rain across Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh over the next two days. "Spoke to officials regarding the situation arising due to Cyclone Fani. Asked them to take preventive measures and be prepared to provide all possible assistance. Also urged them to work closely with Governments of the affected states. Praying for everyone's safety and wellbeing," Modi tweeted.

Cyclone Fani: PM asks officials to take preventive measures

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-2019-40-trinamool-congress-mlas-ready-to-join-once-bjp-wins-polls-says-pm-narendra-modi-214436">Lok Sabha polls 2019: 40 Trinamool Congress MLAs ready to join once BJP wins polls, says PM Narendra Modi</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday claimed that 40 TMC MLAs are in touch with him, and ready to desert the party once the BJP wins the polls.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/pakistan-says-its-on-the-road-to-major-change-but-the-world-is-sceptical-214485">Pakistan says it's on the road to major change, but the world is sceptical</a>

Something very significant is underway in Pakistan, the government in Islamabad would like you to believe.

A small group of foreign journalists, Reuters correspondents included, was given Pakistan's new narrative by Prime Minister Imran Khan, its army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, and other top government officials and generals during a visit to the country earlier this month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-india-vietnam-charged-us-big-tariffs-trump-at-wisconsin-rally-214388">China, India, Vietnam charged us big tariffs: Trump at Wisconsin rally</a>

President Trump has criticised India's "big tariffs" on American paper products and the iconic Harley-Davidson bikes once again, saying the US has been losing billions of dollars to countries like India, China and Japan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-on-alert-for-attacks-by-militants-dressed-in-uniforms-214411">Sri Lanka on alert for attacks by militants dressed in uniforms</a>

Sri Lankan security officials have warned that Islamist militants behind Easter Sunday's suicide bombings are planning imminent attacks and could be dressed in military uniforms.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/38-killed-as-floods-worsen-in-mozambique-after-second-cyclone-214495">38 killed as floods worsen in Mozambique after second cyclone</a>

Heavy rain battered northern Mozambique on Monday as residents and relief workers confronted the widespread devastation wrought by Cyclone Kenneth, the strongest cyclone to ever hit Africa, which killed 38 people and destroyed thousands of homes.

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Lok Sabha polls 2019: 40 Trinamool Congress MLAs ready to join once BJP wins polls, says PM Narendra Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday claimed that 40 TMC MLAs are in touch with him, and ready to desert the party once the BJP wins the polls.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: 40 Trinamool Congress MLAs ready to join once BJP wins polls, says PM Narendra Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday claimed that 40 TMC MLAs are in touch with him, and ready to desert the party once the BJP wins the polls. Pakistan says it's on the road to major change, but the world is sceptical Something very significant is underway in Pakistan, the government in Islamabad would like you to believe. A small group of foreign journalists, Reuters correspondents included, was given Pakistan's new narrative by Prime Minister Imran Khan, its army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, and other top government officials and generals during a visit to the country earlier this month. China, India, Vietnam charged us big tariffs: Trump at Wisconsin rally President Trump has criticised India's "big tariffs" on American paper products and the iconic Harley-Davidson bikes once again, saying the US has been losing billions of dollars to countries like India, China and Japan. Sri Lanka on alert for attacks by militants dressed in uniforms Sri Lankan security officials have warned that Islamist militants behind Easter Sunday's suicide bombings are planning imminent attacks and could be dressed in military uniforms. 38 killed as floods worsen in Mozambique after second cyclone Heavy rain battered northern Mozambique on Monday as residents and relief workers confronted the widespread devastation wrought by Cyclone Kenneth, the strongest cyclone to ever hit Africa, which killed 38 people and destroyed thousands of homes.

News brief: Big stories of the day

In a surprise move,&nbsp;the Samajwadi Party on Monday changed its candidate in the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat and fielded ex-BSF trooper Tej Bahadur Yadav against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The SP, which is in an alliance with the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Rashtriya Lok Dal, had earlier declared Shalini Yadav as its candidate from Varanasi, while the Congress has renominated Ajai Rai.

"I was sacked for raising the issue of corruption. My sole objective will be to strengthen and eliminate corruption in the forces," Yadav told reporters when asked about the SP decision to field him.

Yadav will be challenging Modi in Varanasi constituency of Uttar Pradesh, an SP leader said.

The former Border Security Force (BSF) soldier had uploaded a video on social media in 2017, complaining that poor quality food was being served to the troops in the icy, mountainous region along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir. He was later dismissed on the charge of indiscipline.

The SP is contesting the Lok Sabha polls in alliance with the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Rashtriya Lok Dal in Uttar Pradesh to defeat the BJP. As per the seat-sharing pact, the SP is contesting 37 Lok Sabha seats, while Mayawati-led BSP and Ajit Singh's RLD have been allocated 38 and three seats respectively.&nbsp;

The election in Varanasi is slated to take place in the last phase of seven-phased Lok Sabha elections on May 19. The counting of votes will begin on May 23.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a surprise move, the Samajwadi Party on Monday changed its candidate in the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat and fielded ex-BSF trooper Tej Bahadur Yadav against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In a surprise move, the Samajwadi Party on Monday changed its candidate in the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat and fielded ex-BSF trooper Tej Bahadur Yadav against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The SP, which is in an alliance with the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Rashtriya Lok Dal, had earlier declared Shalini Yadav as its candidate from Varanasi, while the Congress has renominated Ajai Rai. "I was sacked for raising the issue of corruption. My sole objective will be to strengthen and eliminate corruption in the forces," Yadav told reporters when asked about the SP decision to field him. Yadav will be challenging Modi in Varanasi constituency of Uttar Pradesh, an SP leader said. The former Border Security Force (BSF) soldier had uploaded a video on social media in 2017, complaining that poor quality food was being served to the troops in the icy, mountainous region along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir. He was later dismissed on the charge of indiscipline. The SP is contesting the Lok Sabha polls in alliance with the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Rashtriya Lok Dal in Uttar Pradesh to defeat the BJP. As per the seat-sharing pact, the SP is contesting 37 Lok Sabha seats, while Mayawati-led BSP and Ajit Singh's RLD have been allocated 38 and three seats respectively. The election in Varanasi is slated to take place in the last phase of seven-phased Lok Sabha elections on May 19. The counting of votes will begin on May 23. (With inputs from agencies)

Samajwadi Party changes Varanasi candidate, fields ex-BSF constable Tej Bahadur Yadav against PM Modi

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/curbing-insurgency-in-northeast-my-biggest-achievement-as-home-minister-rajnath-singh-213723">Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh</a> Saturday asserted that the BJP is in politics for building the nation.

"We do not indulge in politics for the pleasures of being in power, but to build the nation. After Narendra Modi became the Prime Minister in 2014, our country has surged ahead with a fast pace," he said.

"The International Monetary Fund has also accepted that if there is any country which is growing at a fast pace, then it is India," Singh said here, addressing a meeting.

The Union minister, who represents the state capital in Lok Sabha, said it is his dream to see Lucknow become the most beautiful city not only in India but also in the world.

"I do not claim that poverty has been eradicated from the country but we have shown in the past five years, what did not happen in 65 years," he said.

Singh also called upon Samajwadi Party patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadav to inquire about his health, a statement issued by the BJP said.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Saturday asserted that the BJP is in politics for building the nation. "We do not indulge in politics for the pleasures of being in power, but to build the nation.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Saturday asserted that the BJP is in politics for building the nation. "We do not indulge in politics for the pleasures of being in power, but to build the nation. After Narendra Modi became the Prime Minister in 2014, our country has surged ahead with a fast pace," he said. "The International Monetary Fund has also accepted that if there is any country which is growing at a fast pace, then it is India," Singh said here, addressing a meeting. The Union minister, who represents the state capital in Lok Sabha, said it is his dream to see Lucknow become the most beautiful city not only in India but also in the world. "I do not claim that poverty has been eradicated from the country but we have shown in the past five years, what did not happen in 65 years," he said. Singh also called upon Samajwadi Party patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadav to inquire about his health, a statement issued by the BJP said.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: BJP is in politics for building nation, says Rajnath Singh

BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday said that Article 370 will be withdrawn from Jammu and Kashmir, if the saffron party is voted to power again.

"We will remove Article 370 if you make Narendra Modi the prime minister again," Shah said at a public rally here in Palamau district in Jharkhand.

Shah said during the Congress-led UPA government, terror groups from Pakistan used to target India continuously.

Jawans were beheaded by terrorists also, Shah&nbsp;said.

"We cannot compromise with the security of the nation. Pakistan wants to separate Kashmir from India. We will not allow it.

"Pakistan se goli aayegi to yahan se gola jayaga (if a bullet comes here, a shell lands there)," the BJP president said.

Launching a scathing attack on National conference leader Omar Abdullah for his remarks on having a separate prime minister for Kashmir, the BJP president said Kashmir is an inseparable part of India.

"Should there be two prime ministers for one country?" Shah asked the people.

The BJP has given the nation Modi as prime minister and the security of the country has been strengthened ever since, he said.

"When the nation rejoiced with sweets following the February 26 Balakot air strike, a pall of gloom descended on the Congress and Pakistan," Shah said.

He ridiculed Congress leader Sam Pitroda for saying that "some boys" had committed mistake and dropped bombs, and there should be talks.&nbsp;

BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday said that Article 370 will be withdrawn from Jammu and Kashmir, if the saffron party is voted to power again. "We will remove Article 370 if you make Narendra Modi the prime minister again," Shah said at a public rally here in Palamau district in Jharkhand.

BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday said that Article 370 will be withdrawn from Jammu and Kashmir, if the saffron party is voted to power again. "We will remove Article 370 if you make Narendra Modi the prime minister again," Shah said at a public rally here in Palamau district in Jharkhand. Shah said during the Congress-led UPA government, terror groups from Pakistan used to target India continuously. Jawans were beheaded by terrorists also, Shah said. "We cannot compromise with the security of the nation. Pakistan wants to separate Kashmir from India. We will not allow it. "Pakistan se goli aayegi to yahan se gola jayaga (if a bullet comes here, a shell lands there)," the BJP president said. Launching a scathing attack on National conference leader Omar Abdullah for his remarks on having a separate prime minister for Kashmir, the BJP president said Kashmir is an inseparable part of India. "Should there be two prime ministers for one country?" Shah asked the people. The BJP has given the nation Modi as prime minister and the security of the country has been strengthened ever since, he said. "When the nation rejoiced with sweets following the February 26 Balakot air strike, a pall of gloom descended on the Congress and Pakistan," Shah said. He ridiculed Congress leader Sam Pitroda for saying that "some boys" had committed mistake and dropped bombs, and there should be talks.

Article 370 to be withdrawn from J&K if voted to power: Amit Shah

<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/poll-scam-money-used-for-naamdars-campaign-pm-modi-targets-rahul-gandhi-213678&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj4kYrc0e_hAhWKinAKHV5kBvUQFjAEegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw00WwceawnX5XDEzIFNFi8z">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> Friday claimed that the Congress won't get even 50 seats in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

He addressed a rally at BKC ground here with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray ahead of April 29 polling for six seats in Mumbai and 11 seats elsewhere in Maharashtra.

"This election is not to find an alternative but to be decisive, to empower the poor and end terrorism. All opinion polls and surveys are unanimous in their finding that the BJP led NDA will return to power. The only point of discussion is the number of seats," Modi said.

"They (Opposition) are wondering why first-time voters and those who were born at the end of the 20th century are supporting Modi. It is because Modi is giving expression to their (new generation's) aspirations. They are looking forward to 2047 when India will celebrate its centenary of independence, but some people are stuck in the 20th century. They can't understand what the youth want," he said.

"Confusion is the other name of the Congress. If 2014 saw the worst performance of the Congress, in 2019 the party is going to create another record of contesting the least number of seats," the prime minister said.

"The situation for Congress is such that it remains to be seen whether it crosses the 50 mark," he said.

Congress governments neglected the police force and turned it into a "punching bag", he said, adding that had it not been for the alertness of Mumbai Police, who paid a heavy price including martyrdom, the city would have paid a greater price due to terror activities.

Modi's praise for police comes after BJP candidate and Malegaon blast accused Pragya Thakur's controversial statement about slain IPS officer Hemant Karkare.

"The Congress' attitude has been to change chief ministers and home ministers following terror attacks; we have changed that culture," he said.

Seeking to woo the middle class and Mumbai's working classes, Modi said fisherfolk, dabbawallahs (tiffin carriers), and drivers of "kali-pili" (black and yellow) taxies who ensure that Mumbai's speed never slackens need to be commended.

"It is because of the middle class and genuine taxpayers that this government has been able to work on infrastructure upgradation, Ayushman Bharat medical (insurance) scheme, and housing for all by 2022," he said.

The Congress manifesto has no mention of the middle class and some Congress leaders describe the middle class as selfish and greedy, the prime minister alleged.

"Telephone bills were once a huge part of expenses of the middle class. Due to efforts of our government, calling is almost free now and data is also among the cheapest in the world," Modi said.

The government works with 'Mumbai first' agenda, he said, mentioning bullet train project and promising that in the next few years, Mumbai will have 275 km of the metro network.

"During our rule, corruption has been dealt with severely, some people are in jail and some on bail. After the elections, they will be sent to jail. We have increased the number of taxpayers, not the taxes.

We have also increased the income tax (exemption) limit up to Rs five lakh. Today the middle class is saving more," the prime minister said.

Unlike in 2014, the price rise was not an election issue this time, Modi pointed out, saying that "inflation has been controlled at 4 per cent". "Development is high and inflation is low. This is a healthy condition," he added.

His government did a good job of financial management of the country while the Congress was concerned with its own finances and that of "one family", Modi said.

Referring to the Mumbai terror attacks, he also said that "terrorists now know that he (Modi) will find them even from hell and kill them if they attempt any such attack".

"I am Shivaji's `mavla' (soldier)," Modi said, invoking the Maratha warrior king. "Terrorists know that I will enter their homes and kill them," he added. 
Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, who addressed the rally earlier, said this was the third time he and Modi were campaigning together, while Congress president Rahul Gandhi and his ally, NCP chief Sharad Pawar had not come together.

"Rahul Gandhi doesn't feel the need to come here and Pawar doesn't want to share&nbsp;dais with him," Thackeray said.

Sena was with the Modi because only he can deal firmly with Pakistan, Uddhav said, adding that the Sena-BJP alliance was based on "a common maximum programme" of Ram temple, the abolition of Article 370 and development.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described the opposition as "bears and wolves" who have taken along a "parrot" to defeat "the lion and the tiger".&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday claimed that the Congress won't get even 50 seats in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. He addressed a rally at BKC ground here with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray ahead of April 29 polling for six seats in Mumbai and 11 seats elsewhere in Maharashtra.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday claimed that the Congress won't get even 50 seats in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. He addressed a rally at BKC ground here with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray ahead of April 29 polling for six seats in Mumbai and 11 seats elsewhere in Maharashtra. "This election is not to find an alternative but to be decisive, to empower the poor and end terrorism. All opinion polls and surveys are unanimous in their finding that the BJP led NDA will return to power. The only point of discussion is the number of seats," Modi said. "They (Opposition) are wondering why first-time voters and those who were born at the end of the 20th century are supporting Modi. It is because Modi is giving expression to their (new generation's) aspirations. They are looking forward to 2047 when India will celebrate its centenary of independence, but some people are stuck in the 20th century. They can't understand what the youth want," he said. "Confusion is the other name of the Congress. If 2014 saw the worst performance of the Congress, in 2019 the party is going to create another record of contesting the least number of seats," the prime minister said. "The situation for Congress is such that it remains to be seen whether it crosses the 50 mark," he said. Congress governments neglected the police force and turned it into a "punching bag", he said, adding that had it not been for the alertness of Mumbai Police, who paid a heavy price including martyrdom, the city would have paid a greater price due to terror activities. Modi's praise for police comes after BJP candidate and Malegaon blast accused Pragya Thakur's controversial statement about slain IPS officer Hemant Karkare. "The Congress' attitude has been to change chief ministers and home ministers following terror attacks; we have changed that culture," he said. Seeking to woo the middle class and Mumbai's working classes, Modi said fisherfolk, dabbawallahs (tiffin carriers), and drivers of "kali-pili" (black and yellow) taxies who ensure that Mumbai's speed never slackens need to be commended. "It is because of the middle class and genuine taxpayers that this government has been able to work on infrastructure upgradation, Ayushman Bharat medical (insurance) scheme, and housing for all by 2022," he said. The Congress manifesto has no mention of the middle class and some Congress leaders describe the middle class as selfish and greedy, the prime minister alleged. "Telephone bills were once a huge part of expenses of the middle class. Due to efforts of our government, calling is almost free now and data is also among the cheapest in the world," Modi said. The government works with 'Mumbai first' agenda, he said, mentioning bullet train project and promising that in the next few years, Mumbai will have 275 km of the metro network. "During our rule, corruption has been dealt with severely, some people are in jail and some on bail. After the elections, they will be sent to jail. We have increased the number of taxpayers, not the taxes. We have also increased the income tax (exemption) limit up to Rs five lakh. Today the middle class is saving more," the prime minister said. Unlike in 2014, the price rise was not an election issue this time, Modi pointed out, saying that "inflation has been controlled at 4 per cent". "Development is high and inflation is low. This is a healthy condition," he added. His government did a good job of financial management of the country while the Congress was concerned with its own finances and that of "one family", Modi said. Referring to the Mumbai terror attacks, he also said that "terrorists now know that he (Modi) will find them even from hell and kill them if they attempt any such attack". "I am Shivaji's `mavla' (soldier)," Modi said, invoking the Maratha warrior king. "Terrorists know that I will enter their homes and kill them," he added. Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, who addressed the rally earlier, said this was the third time he and Modi were campaigning together, while Congress president Rahul Gandhi and his ally, NCP chief Sharad Pawar had not come together. "Rahul Gandhi doesn't feel the need to come here and Pawar doesn't want to share dais with him," Thackeray said. Sena was with the Modi because only he can deal firmly with Pakistan, Uddhav said, adding that the Sena-BJP alliance was based on "a common maximum programme" of Ram temple, the abolition of Article 370 and development. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described the opposition as "bears and wolves" who have taken along a "parrot" to defeat "the lion and the tiger".

Congress may not get even 50 seats: PM Modi

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-rajnath-slams-cong-over-balakot-air-strikes-chowkidar-jibe-213358">Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh</a> said on Friday that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will get a two-third majority in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

"The NDA will get two-third majority in the country," Singh, who was in Varanasi, told ANI.

Apna Dal (S) convener and Union Minister of State Anupriya Patel said that the enthusiasm of the people shows that the NDA is headed towards an absolute majority in Lok Sabha and will form the government again under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"The NDA&nbsp;is coming to power again. There is no doubt that it will be under the leadership of Narendra Modi. The way people greeted and welcomed Modi ji on streets of Varanasi shows that people want to see Modi ji again as the Prime Minister. We will break all records in Uttar Pradesh," she noted.

Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister and BJP leader Sushma Swaraj told ANI, "The people of Varanasi are very lucky as they are choosing the Prime Minister of India, while people of other constituencies are choosing their MPs."

Modi will file his nomination today from the Varanasi parliamentary constituency, the seat from where he won the 2014 general election by a huge margin.&nbsp;BJP had secured 282 seats in Lok Sabha, crossing the half-way mark of 272.

Modi had then contested and won from Vadodara in Gujarat as well but chose to retain Varanasi.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said on Friday that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will get a two-third majority in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. "The NDA will get two-third majority in the country," Singh, who was in Varanasi, told ANI.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said on Friday that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will get a two-third majority in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. "The NDA will get two-third majority in the country," Singh, who was in Varanasi, told ANI. Apna Dal (S) convener and Union Minister of State Anupriya Patel said that the enthusiasm of the people shows that the NDA is headed towards an absolute majority in Lok Sabha and will form the government again under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "The NDA is coming to power again. There is no doubt that it will be under the leadership of Narendra Modi. The way people greeted and welcomed Modi ji on streets of Varanasi shows that people want to see Modi ji again as the Prime Minister. We will break all records in Uttar Pradesh," she noted. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister and BJP leader Sushma Swaraj told ANI, "The people of Varanasi are very lucky as they are choosing the Prime Minister of India, while people of other constituencies are choosing their MPs." Modi will file his nomination today from the Varanasi parliamentary constituency, the seat from where he won the 2014 general election by a huge margin. BJP had secured 282 seats in Lok Sabha, crossing the half-way mark of 272. Modi had then contested and won from Vadodara in Gujarat as well but chose to retain Varanasi.

NDA to get two-third majority in Lok Sabha: Rajnath Singh

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-president-xi-defends-belt-and-road-says-not-exclusive-club-213575">Chinese President Xi defends Belt and Road, says 'not exclusive club'</a>

Chinese President Xi Jinping sought Friday to ease growing concerns about his ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, vowing to prevent debt risks and saying his global infrastructure project "is not an exclusive club".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macrons-main-measures-in-response-to-yellow-vest-protests-213552">French President Macron outlines response including tax cuts to months of 'yellow vest' protests</a>

At the first major news conference on domestic policy of his presidency, Emmanuel Macron pledged to cut taxes on Thursday and said the French would have to work longer as he outlined his response to months of anti-government protests that have shaken his authority.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-referendum-firms-up-sisi-rule-as-regional-unrest-flares-213558">Egypt referendum firms up Sisi rule as regional unrest flares&nbsp;</a>

As mass protests rock other Arab countries, a snap referendum in Egypt has gone against the grain and cemented President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi's rule for years to come.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cyclone-kenneth-hits-mozambique-after-lashing-comoros-213569">Cyclone Kenneth hits Mozambique after lashing Comoros</a>

Cyclone Kenneth battered northern Mozambique on Thursday with gusts of up to 280 km per hour (174 miles per hour) after killing three people on the island nation of Comoros overnight.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-pm-modi-to-file-his-nomination-from-varanasi-parliamentary-seat-today-213557">Lok Sabha polls 2019: PM Modi to file nomination from Varanasi today</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will file his nomination for Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency in Varanasi on Friday.

All senior leaders of the BJP, NDA and North East Democratic Alliance are expected to be present in the city to mark the occasion. For today, the Prime Minister is expected to begin his schedule with prayers at the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

Chinese President Xi defends Belt and Road, says 'not exclusive club' Chinese President Xi Jinping sought Friday to ease growing concerns about his ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, vowing to prevent debt risks and saying his global infrastructure project "is not an exclusive club".

Chinese President Xi defends Belt and Road, says 'not exclusive club' Chinese President Xi Jinping sought Friday to ease growing concerns about his ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, vowing to prevent debt risks and saying his global infrastructure project "is not an exclusive club". French President Macron outlines response including tax cuts to months of 'yellow vest' protests At the first major news conference on domestic policy of his presidency, Emmanuel Macron pledged to cut taxes on Thursday and said the French would have to work longer as he outlined his response to months of anti-government protests that have shaken his authority. Egypt referendum firms up Sisi rule as regional unrest flares As mass protests rock other Arab countries, a snap referendum in Egypt has gone against the grain and cemented President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi's rule for years to come. Cyclone Kenneth hits Mozambique after lashing Comoros Cyclone Kenneth battered northern Mozambique on Thursday with gusts of up to 280 km per hour (174 miles per hour) after killing three people on the island nation of Comoros overnight. Lok Sabha polls 2019: PM Modi to file nomination from Varanasi today Prime Minister Narendra Modi will file his nomination for Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency in Varanasi on Friday. All senior leaders of the BJP, NDA and North East Democratic Alliance are expected to be present in the city to mark the occasion. For today, the Prime Minister is expected to begin his schedule with prayers at the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

Prime Minister<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/poll-scam-money-used-for-naamdars-campaign-pm-modi-targets-rahul-gandhi-213678"> Narendra Modi</a> Friday said opposition leaders are in a race to support Pakistan on the issue of military operations against terror camps in the neighbouring country.

Addressing an election rally in Jabalpur, he said after completion of voting in more than 300 Lok Sabha seats, his opponents have accepted that there is a (Modi) "wave" and have knelt before it.

Modi told the gathering that their votes in favour of the BJP in 2014 made India strong and forced the world to look at the country with a different perspective.

"Your one vote has made the country strong and changed the outlook of the world towards India in the last five years," Modi said.

The PM said the opposition has always stood against India's stance on key issues with other countries.

"They always stood in opposition to the countrys stand. Opposition leaders are in a race to support Pakistan on the issue of surgical strike, air strike or Doklam dispute (with China in 2017)," he said.

Speaking on the issue of terrorism, Modi said military operations against terror camps launched under his watch were just "trailer"".

"India is changing now. We have killed them (terrorists) by entering into their den. And whatever we have done is just a trailer, a sample. We have to wipe out terrorism from its roots," the prime minister said.

Modi said after the end of three phases of Lok Sabha polls, covering 303 seats, it is clear which way people have voted.

"The mandate for 300 seats is in. Those who were saying there was no wave, have now realised (that public opinion in favour of the BJP) and have now knelt before it," the prime minister said.

"A sea of people undeterred by the scorching heat have gathered here...This shows they have joined hands for a building a new India," he said, pointing to the large crowd gathered at the rally.

Modi said his government implemented the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in larger public interest and to boost the nations tax collection.

"The Congress mentioned about implementing the GST regime three times its manifesto but couldn't do so as it lacked (political) will," he added.

The rally was organised in support of BJP Lok Sabha candidate from Jabalpur Rakesh Singh, who is the sitting MP from the seat. Singh is also Madhya Pradesh BJP president.

Madhya Pradesh, which has 29 Lok Sabha seats, will vote in four phases starting from April 29.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday said opposition leaders are in a race to support Pakistan on the issue of military operations against terror camps in the neighbouring country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday said opposition leaders are in a race to support Pakistan on the issue of military operations against terror camps in the neighbouring country. Addressing an election rally in Jabalpur, he said after completion of voting in more than 300 Lok Sabha seats, his opponents have accepted that there is a (Modi) "wave" and have knelt before it. Modi told the gathering that their votes in favour of the BJP in 2014 made India strong and forced the world to look at the country with a different perspective. "Your one vote has made the country strong and changed the outlook of the world towards India in the last five years," Modi said. The PM said the opposition has always stood against India's stance on key issues with other countries. "They always stood in opposition to the countrys stand. Opposition leaders are in a race to support Pakistan on the issue of surgical strike, air strike or Doklam dispute (with China in 2017)," he said. Speaking on the issue of terrorism, Modi said military operations against terror camps launched under his watch were just "trailer"". "India is changing now. We have killed them (terrorists) by entering into their den. And whatever we have done is just a trailer, a sample. We have to wipe out terrorism from its roots," the prime minister said. Modi said after the end of three phases of Lok Sabha polls, covering 303 seats, it is clear which way people have voted. "The mandate for 300 seats is in. Those who were saying there was no wave, have now realised (that public opinion in favour of the BJP) and have now knelt before it," the prime minister said. "A sea of people undeterred by the scorching heat have gathered here...This shows they have joined hands for a building a new India," he said, pointing to the large crowd gathered at the rally. Modi said his government implemented the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in larger public interest and to boost the nations tax collection. "The Congress mentioned about implementing the GST regime three times its manifesto but couldn't do so as it lacked (political) will," he added. The rally was organised in support of BJP Lok Sabha candidate from Jabalpur Rakesh Singh, who is the sitting MP from the seat. Singh is also Madhya Pradesh BJP president. Madhya Pradesh, which has 29 Lok Sabha seats, will vote in four phases starting from April 29.

Those who said there is no 'wave' have now knelt before it: PM Modi

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-india-gives-befitting-reply-to-terror-pm-modi-213515">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> will file his nomination for Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency in Varanasi on Friday.

All senior leaders of the BJP, NDA and North East Democratic Alliance are expected to be present in the city to mark the occasion. For today, the Prime Minister is expected to begin his schedule with prayers at the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

According to sources, BJP workers are giving final touches to the itinerary of the day, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-holds-mega-roadshow-in-varanasi-213438">which includes another road show</a> as Prime Minister proceeds to file his nomination. He may also hold media interaction.

A day before, the Prime Minister held a grand roadshow in Varanasi along with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Union Minister JP Nadda, UP and Delhi BJP chiefs, Mahendra Nath Pandey and Manoj Tiwari.

The roadshow began after paying his tributes at Pt Madan Mohan Malviya's statue outside Banaras Hindu University. The rally, stretching over 6km, had passed through Lanka and Madanpura areas of the city and end at the famed Dashashwamedh Ghat.

Before embarking on the roadshow, PM Modi had said that his scheduled programmes in "beloved Kashi" would give him an opportunity to interact with his “sisters and brothers” of the town.

"After bumper rallies in Darbhanga and Banda, I am heading to beloved Kashi. There are a series of programmes lined up, which would give me another excellent opportunity to interact with my sisters and brothers of Kashi. Har Har Mahadev!" Modi had tweeted.

Later in the evening, PM Modi also participated in the Ganga Aarti on the banks of the holy river. After that, he had an interaction with select intellectuals at Hotel De Paris.

PM Modi is contesting against Congress' Ajay Rai and SP leader Shalini Yadav. Congress on Thursday had announced that it would field Rai as its candidate from the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat, putting to rest speculation regarding Priyanka GandhiVadra contesting the general elections against Prime Minister Modi. This would be the second time&nbsp;Prime Minister&nbsp;Modi and&nbsp;&nbsp;Rai&nbsp;will battle from&nbsp;Varanasi&nbsp;seat.

PM Modi held similar mega road shows in 2014 - both before and after winning the constituency in the 16th Lok Sabha elections. Three years later, the Prime Minister hit the streets of Varanasi for campaigning during the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Modi won from Varanasi by a margin of 3.37 lakh votes. AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal and Rai were among the candidates from the seat. While Kejriwal came in the second place, Rai stood third in the vote tally.

Varanasi will go to polls on May 19 in the last phase of the Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will file his nomination for Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency in Varanasi on Friday. All senior leaders of the BJP, NDA and North East Democratic Alliance are expected to be present in the city to mark the occasion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will file his nomination for Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency in Varanasi on Friday. All senior leaders of the BJP, NDA and North East Democratic Alliance are expected to be present in the city to mark the occasion. For today, the Prime Minister is expected to begin his schedule with prayers at the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple. According to sources, BJP workers are giving final touches to the itinerary of the day, which includes another road show as Prime Minister proceeds to file his nomination. He may also hold media interaction. A day before, the Prime Minister held a grand roadshow in Varanasi along with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Union Minister JP Nadda, UP and Delhi BJP chiefs, Mahendra Nath Pandey and Manoj Tiwari. The roadshow began after paying his tributes at Pt Madan Mohan Malviya's statue outside Banaras Hindu University. The rally, stretching over 6km, had passed through Lanka and Madanpura areas of the city and end at the famed Dashashwamedh Ghat. Before embarking on the roadshow, PM Modi had said that his scheduled programmes in "beloved Kashi" would give him an opportunity to interact with his “sisters and brothers” of the town. "After bumper rallies in Darbhanga and Banda, I am heading to beloved Kashi. There are a series of programmes lined up, which would give me another excellent opportunity to interact with my sisters and brothers of Kashi. Har Har Mahadev!" Modi had tweeted. Later in the evening, PM Modi also participated in the Ganga Aarti on the banks of the holy river. After that, he had an interaction with select intellectuals at Hotel De Paris. PM Modi is contesting against Congress' Ajay Rai and SP leader Shalini Yadav. Congress on Thursday had announced that it would field Rai as its candidate from the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat, putting to rest speculation regarding Priyanka GandhiVadra contesting the general elections against Prime Minister Modi. This would be the second time Prime Minister Modi and Rai will battle from Varanasi seat. PM Modi held similar mega road shows in 2014 - both before and after winning the constituency in the 16th Lok Sabha elections. Three years later, the Prime Minister hit the streets of Varanasi for campaigning during the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls. In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Modi won from Varanasi by a margin of 3.37 lakh votes. AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal and Rai were among the candidates from the seat. While Kejriwal came in the second place, Rai stood third in the vote tally. Varanasi will go to polls on May 19 in the last phase of the Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: PM Modi to file nomination from Varanasi today

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wanted-a-pm-who-can-attack-pakistan-uddhav-thackeray-on-alliance-with-bjp-211968">Shiv Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray</a> said Thursday that Opposition parties, which do not even have a prime ministerial candidate, are making tall promises.

He was addressing a rally at Chakan near Pune for Shiv Sena MP and candidate from Shirur Lok Sabha seat Shivajirao Adhalrao Patil.

"We have a strong PM candidate in Narendra Modi. But if you ask them (Opposition) who is your PM candidate, they say first give us votes and we will see later.

"Today they do not have PM candidate and these people talk about improving the condition of the country...First go and search for a leader," the Sena chief said.

"Everyone in Opposition's alliance wants to sit in the PM's chair, but this is not a game of musical chairs," he quipped.

Adhalrao Patil has a connection with the people of his constituency and he will win a fourth term with a bigger margin, Thackeray said.

In a dig at actor Dr Amol Kolhe, who quit the Sena ahead of the polls and has been fielded by the NCP in Shirur, Thackeray asked people whether they wanted an MP who works for the constituency or someone who works in TV serials.

On the bickering between the BJP and Shiv Sena, who are nevertheless contesting the elections together, Thackeray said he formed the alliance with the BJP for the sake of well-being of farmers and other sections of society.

"The tiffs between the Sena and BJP were sour and sweet," he said.

The Sena chief also said that "one should not make capital out of the valour of our Armed Forces", nor should anyone question the surgical strike and the air strike conducted by the forces after the Uri and Pulwama terror attacks.&nbsp;

Shiv Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray said Thursday that Opposition parties, which do not even have a prime ministerial candidate, are making tall promises. He was addressing a rally at Chakan near Pune for Shiv Sena MP and candidate from Shirur Lok Sabha seat Shivajirao Adhalrao Patil.

Shiv Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray said Thursday that Opposition parties, which do not even have a prime ministerial candidate, are making tall promises. He was addressing a rally at Chakan near Pune for Shiv Sena MP and candidate from Shirur Lok Sabha seat Shivajirao Adhalrao Patil. "We have a strong PM candidate in Narendra Modi. But if you ask them (Opposition) who is your PM candidate, they say first give us votes and we will see later. "Today they do not have PM candidate and these people talk about improving the condition of the country...First go and search for a leader," the Sena chief said. "Everyone in Opposition's alliance wants to sit in the PM's chair, but this is not a game of musical chairs," he quipped. Adhalrao Patil has a connection with the people of his constituency and he will win a fourth term with a bigger margin, Thackeray said. In a dig at actor Dr Amol Kolhe, who quit the Sena ahead of the polls and has been fielded by the NCP in Shirur, Thackeray asked people whether they wanted an MP who works for the constituency or someone who works in TV serials. On the bickering between the BJP and Shiv Sena, who are nevertheless contesting the elections together, Thackeray said he formed the alliance with the BJP for the sake of well-being of farmers and other sections of society. "The tiffs between the Sena and BJP were sour and sweet," he said. The Sena chief also said that "one should not make capital out of the valour of our Armed Forces", nor should anyone question the surgical strike and the air strike conducted by the forces after the Uri and Pulwama terror attacks.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Opposition parties should find a leader first, says Uddhav Thackeray

Maharashtra <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/strap-sceptical-opposition-leaders-on-rockets-to-balakot-fadnavis-212819">Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis</a> Thursday said the voters in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections have to choose between the BJP's development agenda and "anarchy" represented by the Congress-led opposition.

Fadnavis said the Congress-led UPA government had no guts to act when Mumbai was attacked by terrorists in 2008.

Addressing an election rally in support of BJP-Sena alliance's Lok Sabha candidate from Bhiwandi Kapil Patil, Fadnavis&nbsp;said the voters should give a second term to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-india-gives-befitting-reply-to-terror-pm-modi-213515">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>.

Fadnavis came down heavily on the Congress for its string of "failures" during its decades-long rule in the country.

During his almost half an hour speech, the BJP leader listed the achievements of the Modi government.

"What the Congress gave to the common man during its 60-year rule was nothing but 'anachar' (misrule), 'brashtachar' (corruption), Fadnavis said.

Fadnavis said speeches of Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and other party leaders were "entertaining" as they are bereft of substance.

The Congress government did not take any action after the 2008 terror strikes in Mumbai, Fadnavis said, adding the then Prime Minister had no guts to punish Pakistan, from where the attackers had come.

Attacking the Congress further, Fadnavis said only Pakistan and the Rahul Gandhi-led party wanted proof of the causalities in the Balakot air strikes.

Seeking support of electors for the BJP, Fadnavis said these polls offer to the voters a choice between "those who are for development and those who are for anarchy".

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis Thursday said the voters in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections have to choose between the BJP's development agenda and "anarchy" represented by the Congress-led opposition.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis Thursday said the voters in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections have to choose between the BJP's development agenda and "anarchy" represented by the Congress-led opposition. Fadnavis said the Congress-led UPA government had no guts to act when Mumbai was attacked by terrorists in 2008. Addressing an election rally in support of BJP-Sena alliance's Lok Sabha candidate from Bhiwandi Kapil Patil, Fadnavis said the voters should give a second term to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Fadnavis came down heavily on the Congress for its string of "failures" during its decades-long rule in the country. During his almost half an hour speech, the BJP leader listed the achievements of the Modi government. "What the Congress gave to the common man during its 60-year rule was nothing but 'anachar' (misrule), 'brashtachar' (corruption), Fadnavis said. Fadnavis said speeches of Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and other party leaders were "entertaining" as they are bereft of substance. The Congress government did not take any action after the 2008 terror strikes in Mumbai, Fadnavis said, adding the then Prime Minister had no guts to punish Pakistan, from where the attackers had come. Attacking the Congress further, Fadnavis said only Pakistan and the Rahul Gandhi-led party wanted proof of the causalities in the Balakot air strikes. Seeking support of electors for the BJP, Fadnavis said these polls offer to the voters a choice between "those who are for development and those who are for anarchy".

Polls offer choice between development, anarchy: Devendra Fadnavis

Curbing insurgency in the Northeast has been his biggest achievement as home minister, according to Rajnath Singh who says Naxal violence in the country is also on the wane.

The Union home minister asserts that BJP will come back to power with a thumping majority as people want the good governance of the Narendra Modi dispensation to continue.

"The way Modiji has led the country at national and international levels in the last five years, there is not an iota of doubt about our win with a three-fourths majority in these polls," he claims.

Singh says as home minister, he worked, among other things, towards curbing insurgency in the Northeast and Naxalism in parts of the country.&nbsp;

"Insurgency in Northeast is almost finished," he told PTI in an interview.

On Naxalism, he says, "We are now in the most favourable position since 1971, when more security personnel used to get killed than Naxals. Now the trend has reversed... Our security forces have been giving a befitting reply and eliminating Naxals."

Earlier Naxals operated in 126 districts, but now their activities are limited to just six-seven districts, he says.&nbsp;

"We are quite sure that in coming days, we will root them out. The elimination of insurgency in the Northeast has been my biggest achievement as home minister...Even beyond my expectations," the former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh says.

He also says that as home minister, he made a maximum number of visits to Jammu and Kashmir and tried to find a long-term solution to the region's problems, though it could not yield the desired results.

"Now, the time has come to review articles 35A and 370 of the Constitution (providing special status and rights to the state and its citizens) and assess what Jammu and Kashmir got and what is lost due to these two provisions," he says.

"My ministry also revoked the registration of 20,000 organisations which used to get money from overseas, under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, and were involved in activities which were not in the interest of our country," he says.

Singh, who is contesting Lok Sabha polls from Lucknow, says he does not believe that Modi's persona is overshadowing the work of other lawmakers and ministers.&nbsp; 
"Whatever ministers or MPs do, they do it after getting the team leader's consent, it is but natural. All policy decisions are taken under the chairmanship of the prime minister. So, saying that the work of other ministers or MPs is overshadowed is not right," he says.

"People are smart enough and politically aware. They have their own parameters to gauge public representatives' records and performances," he adds.

To a query why the BJP's campaign has no mention of demonetisation and GST, Singh, who headed the party's manifesto committee, says they are no longer poll issues.

"Their (positive and expected) results have started surfacing. GST has been simplified several times and we have made it abundantly clear that whenever there is a need, we will come up with more simplifications so that the business class does not suffer," he says.

Asked why the BJP has 'imported' candidates from outside the party, like Bhojpuri film actors Nirahua and Ravi Kishan, Bollywood star Sunny Deol and Pragya Thakur, he says it shows the party's "inclusive and pluralistic" character.

"Let me clarify that the BJP's core cadre is quite strong and we have no dearth of candidates. But there are some people in every society who have a large fan following and have some intrinsic political acumen.&nbsp;

"When we get these people in our party, they become an integral part of the BJP family and by this way, our party becomes more inclusive and pluralistic," he reasons.

Asked about the BJP fielded only a few Muslim candidates, he says though he was not in a position to tell the exact number, the party has given tickets to members from the community.&nbsp;

"We are very careful about our core principal - 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas'. Unfortunately, the opposition parties are unsuccessfully trying to create a fear factor. But we have built a sense of confidence and I am quite sure that we will get their (Muslims) bigger support this time than what we got in the previous Lok Sabha election," he claims.

Singh says North Indians living in Maharashtra always supported the BJP ever since this party came to existence.

He also dubs the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance as an "unbreakable bond".

"The coming together of two parties with same nationalist ideology is very rare. But this is possible only here in Maharashtra. Though we had some differences, but they have been resolved. The BJP-Shiv Sena have an unbreakable bond and we have proved it," he adds.&nbsp;

Curbing insurgency in the Northeast has been his biggest achievement as home minister, according to Rajnath Singh who says Naxal violence in the country is also on the wane.

Curbing insurgency in the Northeast has been his biggest achievement as home minister, according to Rajnath Singh who says Naxal violence in the country is also on the wane. The Union home minister asserts that BJP will come back to power with a thumping majority as people want the good governance of the Narendra Modi dispensation to continue. "The way Modiji has led the country at national and international levels in the last five years, there is not an iota of doubt about our win with a three-fourths majority in these polls," he claims. Singh says as home minister, he worked, among other things, towards curbing insurgency in the Northeast and Naxalism in parts of the country. "Insurgency in Northeast is almost finished," he told PTI in an interview. On Naxalism, he says, "We are now in the most favourable position since 1971, when more security personnel used to get killed than Naxals. Now the trend has reversed... Our security forces have been giving a befitting reply and eliminating Naxals." Earlier Naxals operated in 126 districts, but now their activities are limited to just six-seven districts, he says. "We are quite sure that in coming days, we will root them out. The elimination of insurgency in the Northeast has been my biggest achievement as home minister...Even beyond my expectations," the former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh says. He also says that as home minister, he made a maximum number of visits to Jammu and Kashmir and tried to find a long-term solution to the region's problems, though it could not yield the desired results. "Now, the time has come to review articles 35A and 370 of the Constitution (providing special status and rights to the state and its citizens) and assess what Jammu and Kashmir got and what is lost due to these two provisions," he says. "My ministry also revoked the registration of 20,000 organisations which used to get money from overseas, under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, and were involved in activities which were not in the interest of our country," he says. Singh, who is contesting Lok Sabha polls from Lucknow, says he does not believe that Modi's persona is overshadowing the work of other lawmakers and ministers. "Whatever ministers or MPs do, they do it after getting the team leader's consent, it is but natural. All policy decisions are taken under the chairmanship of the prime minister. So, saying that the work of other ministers or MPs is overshadowed is not right," he says. "People are smart enough and politically aware. They have their own parameters to gauge public representatives' records and performances," he adds. To a query why the BJP's campaign has no mention of demonetisation and GST, Singh, who headed the party's manifesto committee, says they are no longer poll issues. "Their (positive and expected) results have started surfacing. GST has been simplified several times and we have made it abundantly clear that whenever there is a need, we will come up with more simplifications so that the business class does not suffer," he says. Asked why the BJP has 'imported' candidates from outside the party, like Bhojpuri film actors Nirahua and Ravi Kishan, Bollywood star Sunny Deol and Pragya Thakur, he says it shows the party's "inclusive and pluralistic" character. "Let me clarify that the BJP's core cadre is quite strong and we have no dearth of candidates. But there are some people in every society who have a large fan following and have some intrinsic political acumen. "When we get these people in our party, they become an integral part of the BJP family and by this way, our party becomes more inclusive and pluralistic," he reasons. Asked about the BJP fielded only a few Muslim candidates, he says though he was not in a position to tell the exact number, the party has given tickets to members from the community. "We are very careful about our core principal - 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas'. Unfortunately, the opposition parties are unsuccessfully trying to create a fear factor. But we have built a sense of confidence and I am quite sure that we will get their (Muslims) bigger support this time than what we got in the previous Lok Sabha election," he claims. Singh says North Indians living in Maharashtra always supported the BJP ever since this party came to existence. He also dubs the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance as an "unbreakable bond". "The coming together of two parties with same nationalist ideology is very rare. But this is possible only here in Maharashtra. Though we had some differences, but they have been resolved. The BJP-Shiv Sena have an unbreakable bond and we have proved it," he adds.

Curbing insurgency in Northeast my biggest achievement as home minister: Rajnath Singh

Famous Punjabi singer Daler Mehndi Friday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party at its Delhi office here in the presence of Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari and Union minister Vijay Goel.

BJP's candidate from northwest Delhi constituency Hans Raj Hans, Union minister and Chandni Chowk candidate Harsh Vardhan and other parties&nbsp; 
leaders were also present.

Mehndi's daughter is married to a son of Hans.&nbsp;

Famous Punjabi singer Daler Mehndi Friday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party at its Delhi office here in the presence of Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari and Union minister Vijay Goel.

Famous Punjabi singer Daler Mehndi Friday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party at its Delhi office here in the presence of Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari and Union minister Vijay Goel. BJP's candidate from northwest Delhi constituency Hans Raj Hans, Union minister and Chandni Chowk candidate Harsh Vardhan and other parties leaders were also present. Mehndi's daughter is married to a son of Hans.

Daler Mehndi joins Bharatiya Janata Party

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Friday said the Congress game plan was not to stop the BJP from forming the government at the Centre, but to come to power in Uttar Pradesh in 2022.

Akhilesh Yadav also said that his party and the BSP have sacrificed seats in the national interest.

"Our intention is clear right from the word go. We formed an alliance (with BSP and RLD) to stop the communal party and in the process, we in the SP and also the BSP had to sacrifice seats in the national interest," said Akhilesh.

But, the Congress' agenda in the ongoing parliamentary polls is not to stop the BJP from forming the next government at the Centre.

They are working for making the next UP chief minister in 2022 (when the next assembly polls are due), Akhilesh&nbsp;added.

His no holds barred attack came days after he lashed out at the Congress for its "too big ego".

The SP chief's remarks assume significance against the backdrop of Congress president Rahul Gandhi himself asserting that his party will form the government at the Centre and that "after the Lok Sabha polls, the next target was (UP) assembly elections (in 2022) to ensure that the state is at the top in education, health and employment as before."

Maintaining that his alliance with the BSP and the RLD is "strong", Akhilesh said, "Both the parties have sacrificed for the sake of the country.

''We have given up half of our seats only to ensure the communal BJP did not return to power again", Akhilesh said.

When asked about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's prediction that the SP-BSP alliance will crack the moment election results are out on May 23, Akhilesh said, "What has the BJP got to do with it? Why are they bothered? In UP we are strong and the BJP is nowhere. And this is the ground reality. They are trailing far behind the alliance."

Asked to comment on Modi terming the alliance as "maha milawat", Akhilesh retorted, "What should we call their (BJP) alliance with 38 parties? We are contesting on core issues and people have seen hope in our alliance."

Trashing Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya's statement that complaints about EVM malfunctioning across the state by the SP show that it has sensed defeat after the third phase of polls, Akhilesh said, "He could not become CM.

''He is still under training. He did not get a helicopter for campaigning for three days. He is nobody in the party", Akhilesh&nbsp;added.

"There are large scale discrepancies in EVM machines in Rampur, Badaun and Mainpuri too. Hundreds of EVMs malfunctioned. Is this not serious?" the former UP CM shot back.

About BJP's campaign targeting corruption during previous SP and BSP regimes, Akhilesh said, "They (BJP) did not have any development issues to raise. Why are they not taking action if there is an anomaly in previous regime works? Who is stopping them?"

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Friday said the Congress game plan was not to stop the BJP from forming the government at the Centre, but to come to power in Uttar Pradesh in 2022.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Friday said the Congress game plan was not to stop the BJP from forming the government at the Centre, but to come to power in Uttar Pradesh in 2022. Akhilesh Yadav also said that his party and the BSP have sacrificed seats in the national interest. "Our intention is clear right from the word go. We formed an alliance (with BSP and RLD) to stop the communal party and in the process, we in the SP and also the BSP had to sacrifice seats in the national interest," said Akhilesh. But, the Congress' agenda in the ongoing parliamentary polls is not to stop the BJP from forming the next government at the Centre. They are working for making the next UP chief minister in 2022 (when the next assembly polls are due), Akhilesh added. His no holds barred attack came days after he lashed out at the Congress for its "too big ego". The SP chief's remarks assume significance against the backdrop of Congress president Rahul Gandhi himself asserting that his party will form the government at the Centre and that "after the Lok Sabha polls, the next target was (UP) assembly elections (in 2022) to ensure that the state is at the top in education, health and employment as before." Maintaining that his alliance with the BSP and the RLD is "strong", Akhilesh said, "Both the parties have sacrificed for the sake of the country. ''We have given up half of our seats only to ensure the communal BJP did not return to power again", Akhilesh said. When asked about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's prediction that the SP-BSP alliance will crack the moment election results are out on May 23, Akhilesh said, "What has the BJP got to do with it? Why are they bothered? In UP we are strong and the BJP is nowhere. And this is the ground reality. They are trailing far behind the alliance." Asked to comment on Modi terming the alliance as "maha milawat", Akhilesh retorted, "What should we call their (BJP) alliance with 38 parties? We are contesting on core issues and people have seen hope in our alliance." Trashing Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya's statement that complaints about EVM malfunctioning across the state by the SP show that it has sensed defeat after the third phase of polls, Akhilesh said, "He could not become CM. ''He is still under training. He did not get a helicopter for campaigning for three days. He is nobody in the party", Akhilesh added. "There are large scale discrepancies in EVM machines in Rampur, Badaun and Mainpuri too. Hundreds of EVMs malfunctioned. Is this not serious?" the former UP CM shot back. About BJP's campaign targeting corruption during previous SP and BSP regimes, Akhilesh said, "They (BJP) did not have any development issues to raise. Why are they not taking action if there is an anomaly in previous regime works? Who is stopping them?"

Congress more keen on forming government in UP in 2022, rather than halting BJP: Akhilesh Yadav

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pro-incumbency-wave-for-the-first-time-in-country-pm-modi-213600">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> has filed his nomination from Varanasi for Lok Sabha constituency on Friday.

Besides BJP chief Amit Shah, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, top NDA leaders such as Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, SAD leader Prakash Singh Badal and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray were also present to mark the occasion.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a> : PM Narendra Modi files nomination from Varanasi parliamentary constituency. <a href="https://t.co/V0RX2otJUv">pic.twitter.com/V0RX2otJUv</a>
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Before filing for his nomination, Modi addressed the party workers. He also&nbsp;visited the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

A day before filing his nomination, the&nbsp;Prime Minister held a grand roadshow in Varanasi along with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Union Minister JP Nadda, UP and Delhi BJP chiefs, Mahendra Nath Pandey and Manoj Tiwari on Thursday.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lok-sabha-polls-2019-pm-modi-files-nomination-from-varanasi-213634/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Congress' Ajay Rai and SP leader Shalini Yadav are the other key candidates from Varanasi.&nbsp;

In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Modi won from Varanasi by a margin of 3.37 lakh votes.&nbsp;

Varanasi will go to polls on May 19 in the last phase of the Lok Sabha elections.

The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

(With inputs from ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has filed his nomination from Varanasi for Lok Sabha constituency on Friday. Besides BJP chief Amit Shah, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, top NDA leaders such as Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, SAD leader Prakash Singh Badal and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray were also present to mark the occasion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has filed his nomination from Varanasi for Lok Sabha constituency on Friday. Besides BJP chief Amit Shah, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, top NDA leaders such as Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, SAD leader Prakash Singh Badal and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray were also present to mark the occasion. #LokSabhaElections2019 : PM Narendra Modi files nomination from Varanasi parliamentary constituency. pic.twitter.com/V0RX2otJUv — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 26, 2019 × Before filing for his nomination, Modi addressed the party workers. He also visited the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple. A day before filing his nomination, the Prime Minister held a grand roadshow in Varanasi along with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Union Minister JP Nadda, UP and Delhi BJP chiefs, Mahendra Nath Pandey and Manoj Tiwari on Thursday. Congress' Ajay Rai and SP leader Shalini Yadav are the other key candidates from Varanasi. In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Modi won from Varanasi by a margin of 3.37 lakh votes. Varanasi will go to polls on May 19 in the last phase of the Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. (With inputs from ANI)

Lok Sabha polls 2019: PM Modi files nomination from Varanasi

The Congress on Thursday fielded Ajay Rai to contest polls against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ending speculation on Priyanka Gandhi Vadra fighting polls from the UP town.

Speculation on Priyanka Gandhi making her political debut from Varanasi was fuelled after Congress president Rahul Gandhi, to a question on whether he planned to field his sister against PM Modi, said last week, "I will leave you in suspense. Suspense is not always a bad thing."

In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, PM Modi had won from Varanasi with 5,81,022 votes.

Aam Aadmi Party’s Arvind Kejriwal, Ajay Rai, BSP's Vijay Prakash Jaiswal and Samajwadi Party’s Kailash Chaurasia had polled 2,09,238, 75,614, 60,579 and 45,291 votes respectively.

The combined votes polled by these opposition candidates was 3,90,722, still 1,90,300 short of what Modi got.&nbsp;

The Congress also fielded Madhusudan Tiwari from Gorakhpur against BJP's actor-turned-politician Ravi Kishan.

(With inputs from PTI)

The Congress on Thursday fielded Ajay Rai to contest polls against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ending speculation on Priyanka Gandhi Vadra fighting polls from the UP town.

The Congress on Thursday fielded Ajay Rai to contest polls against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ending speculation on Priyanka Gandhi Vadra fighting polls from the UP town. Speculation on Priyanka Gandhi making her political debut from Varanasi was fuelled after Congress president Rahul Gandhi, to a question on whether he planned to field his sister against PM Modi, said last week, "I will leave you in suspense. Suspense is not always a bad thing." In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, PM Modi had won from Varanasi with 5,81,022 votes. Aam Aadmi Party’s Arvind Kejriwal, Ajay Rai, BSP's Vijay Prakash Jaiswal and Samajwadi Party’s Kailash Chaurasia had polled 2,09,238, 75,614, 60,579 and 45,291 votes respectively. The combined votes polled by these opposition candidates was 3,90,722, still 1,90,300 short of what Modi got. The Congress also fielded Madhusudan Tiwari from Gorakhpur against BJP's actor-turned-politician Ravi Kishan. (With inputs from PTI)

Congress fields Ajay Rai, not Priyanka Gandhi from Varanasi against PM Narendra Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a swipe at opposition leaders saying people who are contesting only 40, 20 or even eight seats are standing in the queue waiting for their turn to become the prime minister.&nbsp;

Addressing a public rally at Darbhanga in Bihar, Modi asked the people to vote for him as he needs their vote to fight terror.

''Modi cannot fight terror on his own. The chowkidar needs your votes to win this fight,'' Modi said.&nbsp;

The opposition is jittery after three phases of General elections and hence they have given up demanding proof of air strikes and started finding faults with EVMs, Modi said taking a jibe at several party leaders including Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu who on Tuesday questioned the credibility of the EVMs and claimed that there are rumours that people from Russia are hacking EVMs for crores.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Modi also attacked the opposition for not giving national security its due importance.

''For the 'Mahamilavat' gang, national security may not be an issue. But this is new India. Those involved in or abetting terror would be chased to their homes and finished off, says PM Modi,'' he said.

Terrorism must be rooted out for the benefit of the poor so that the money now spent on security could be spent on their well-being, he said.

Some people have a problem with 'Bharat mata ki Jai' &amp; 'Vande mataram', should such people lose their deposits or not? Modi asked. These are same people who complain when I talk about Bharat, the PM said and added they also say 'why is Modi talking about terrorism, it is not an issue'

The prime minister also congratulated Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar and BJP leader Sushil Modi for having brought the days of lantern to an end in Bihar and bringing electricity. &nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a swipe at opposition leaders saying people who are contesting only 40, 20 or even eight seats are standing in the queue waiting for their turn to become the prime minister.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a swipe at opposition leaders saying people who are contesting only 40, 20 or even eight seats are standing in the queue waiting for their turn to become the prime minister. Addressing a public rally at Darbhanga in Bihar, Modi asked the people to vote for him as he needs their vote to fight terror. ''Modi cannot fight terror on his own. The chowkidar needs your votes to win this fight,'' Modi said. The opposition is jittery after three phases of General elections and hence they have given up demanding proof of air strikes and started finding faults with EVMs, Modi said taking a jibe at several party leaders including Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu who on Tuesday questioned the credibility of the EVMs and claimed that there are rumours that people from Russia are hacking EVMs for crores. Modi also attacked the opposition for not giving national security its due importance. ''For the 'Mahamilavat' gang, national security may not be an issue. But this is new India. Those involved in or abetting terror would be chased to their homes and finished off, says PM Modi,'' he said. Terrorism must be rooted out for the benefit of the poor so that the money now spent on security could be spent on their well-being, he said. Some people have a problem with 'Bharat mata ki Jai' & 'Vande mataram', should such people lose their deposits or not? Modi asked. These are same people who complain when I talk about Bharat, the PM said and added they also say 'why is Modi talking about terrorism, it is not an issue' The prime minister also congratulated Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar and BJP leader Sushil Modi for having brought the days of lantern to an end in Bihar and bringing electricity.

People contesting in 40, 20 or even eight seats standing in queue to be PM: Modi  

The Delhi CEO Office has received 365 applications till date on pre-certification of political advertisements by various political parties with the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-file-nomination-on-april-26-security-beefed-up-in-wake-of-roadshow-today-213354&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjQm4LzzOrhAhUHMY8KHVN0B80QFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2sqTG-HQ6-0UIqHplmE_Kb">BJP</a> filing a maximum of 244 applications, according to data shared by the poll body here on Wednesday.

These advertisements to be played on TV or social media, among other platforms are to be pre-certified by the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC) of the Election Commission constituted at state and district levels.

According to the data shared by the Delhi CEO office, the BJP has sent 244 applications, Congress 98 and the AAP 20, till date for MCMC certifications.

As many as 330 certificates have been issued and 11 are pending till date, while 24 were rejected, it said.

The CEO office also said that as many as 179 FIRs and daily diary (DD) entries were filed against political parties and others here for a violation of the model code of conduct, till date.

The statistics surveillance team of Delhi's Chief Electoral Office constituted to keep an eye on the expenses of political parties, has seized Rs 2.88 crore in cash and 1378 kg of narcotics and drugs.

"A total of 179 FIRs or DD entries have been lodged till date in connection with the violation of the model code of conduct," the office of the Delhi Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) said in a statement.

"Out of these, 21 are against the Aam Aadmi Party (13 FIRs and eight DD entries), 28 against the Bhartiya Janata Party (14 FIRs and 14 DD entries), nine against the Congress (three FIRs and six DD entries), one against the Bahujan Samaj Party (an FIR), Samajwadi Party (one DD entry), four against CPI (M) (two FIRs and two DD entries) and 115 (111 FIRs and four DD entries) are against others or non-political (entities)," it said.

The office of the Delhi CEO said over 3.25 lakh posters, banners and hoardings have been removed since March 10, when the poll code came into force.&nbsp;

The Delhi CEO Office has received 365 applications till date on pre-certification of political advertisements by various political parties with the BJP filing a maximum of 244 applications, according to data shared by the poll body here on Wednesday.

The Delhi CEO Office has received 365 applications till date on pre-certification of political advertisements by various political parties with the BJP filing a maximum of 244 applications, according to data shared by the poll body here on Wednesday. These advertisements to be played on TV or social media, among other platforms are to be pre-certified by the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC) of the Election Commission constituted at state and district levels. According to the data shared by the Delhi CEO office, the BJP has sent 244 applications, Congress 98 and the AAP 20, till date for MCMC certifications. As many as 330 certificates have been issued and 11 are pending till date, while 24 were rejected, it said. The CEO office also said that as many as 179 FIRs and daily diary (DD) entries were filed against political parties and others here for a violation of the model code of conduct, till date. The statistics surveillance team of Delhi's Chief Electoral Office constituted to keep an eye on the expenses of political parties, has seized Rs 2.88 crore in cash and 1378 kg of narcotics and drugs. "A total of 179 FIRs or DD entries have been lodged till date in connection with the violation of the model code of conduct," the office of the Delhi Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) said in a statement. "Out of these, 21 are against the Aam Aadmi Party (13 FIRs and eight DD entries), 28 against the Bhartiya Janata Party (14 FIRs and 14 DD entries), nine against the Congress (three FIRs and six DD entries), one against the Bahujan Samaj Party (an FIR), Samajwadi Party (one DD entry), four against CPI (M) (two FIRs and two DD entries) and 115 (111 FIRs and four DD entries) are against others or non-political (entities)," it said. The office of the Delhi CEO said over 3.25 lakh posters, banners and hoardings have been removed since March 10, when the poll code came into force.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: BJP filed nearly 67% of total applications sent to MCMC

Union Home Minister and senior BJP leader <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-by-2030-india-will-replace-one-of-the-top-3-superpowers-says-rajnath-singh-213156&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjw1sbAyerhAhWIro8KHX0jDV8QFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3bCmGfhf65yagMtWyAMViK">Rajnath Singh</a> Wednesday said the number of terrorists killed in the Balakot air strikes was "high", and accused the Congress of politicising the anti-terror operation by the IAF.

He hit out at Congress president Rahul Gandhi for using "foul language" against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Claiming the BJP would get a clear mandate in the Lok Sabha elections, Singh said he has no doubt in his mind that NDA allies will retain power with a three-fourths majority.

He said the Congress is politicising the Balakot air strikes and dismissed its demand of proof of casualties in the operation as "uncalled for".

The IAF had struck a Jaish-e-Mohammad terror training camp in Pakistan on February 26 in response to the February 14 Pulwama attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed.

"Should our forces have stopped there to count the dead bodies? Brave jawans do not count the dead bodies, they keep marching ahead... Eagles count bodies," he said.

"Had there been 1, 2, 3 or 4 casualties, then we could have given a figure, but how can we tell (the exact casualties) when this figure was so high. I head the intelligence agencies. I would like to say we carried out the air strikes on the basis of credible and actionable inputs, and without violating Pakistan's sovereignty," the home minister said.

Singh said if the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was hailed for splitting Pakistan in 1971, then why can't Modi be lauded for the Balakot air strikes.

He addressed two election rallies in neighbouring Palghar district in support of Shiv Sena candidates from Thane and Palghar Lok Sabha constituencies.

Lashing out at the opposition for pointing fingers at electronic voting machines, he said, "The (voting) trend in the first phase of elections suggested the NDA would get a two-thirds majority. Soon the opposition launched an attack on EMVs.''

"When these people (Congress) won (assembly polls) in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh last year, then EVMs were right, but when they saw we are inching towards victory, they again started crying foul on EVMs", he said.

Singh strongly defended the alliance between the BJP and the Shiv Sena, saying it is based on their shared ideology of nationalism.

''No one can break the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance in the state'', Singh asserted.

He said NCP chief Sharad Pawar had sensed his defeat in the Lok Sabha elections and hence decided to stay away from the poll fray.

Singh, contesting from the Lucknow Lok Sabha seat, lauded the government of Prime Minister Modi and said under his watch India saw a quantum jump in its economic ranking.

"We were languishing at the 9th position among the top 10 countries (before 2014). But since the Modi-led government took charge, our country witnessed a quantum jump and we secured the 6th position among the top 10 countries," the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said.

"And I would like to say...In the coming years, we are going to attain the 5th position," Singh said.

The home minister said India is no more a country of the poor people and "we are now one of the fastest-growing economies in the world".

It is unfortunate that Congress president Rahul Gandhi is "using foul" language against the prime minister of the country, Singh said.

''To say `chowkidar chor hai' (Rahul's jibe at the PM over the Rafale deal) is stooping too low. I was shocked when I first heard such a language for our prime minister'', he said.

"The Congress government did not buy a single next-generation fighter plane in the last 30 years. Had we got Rafale jets, we could have destroyed Pakistan-based (terror) camps while sitting in India," Singh said.

Instead of attacking the PM, the Congress should introspect why it is losing base, he said.

The BJP veteran said the Congress governments under Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi made "failed" efforts to eliminate poverty and Rahul Gandhi is now going on the same path (with his Nyay scheme).

He said the Congress-led UPA government built 25 lakh housing units from 2008 to 2014, while the BJP-headed NDA government constructed 1.30 crore houses between 2014-2018.

Nowhere in the world you will see the "karishma" (miracle) of 34 crore bank accounts being opened in such a short time (under Jan Dhan Yojana), he said, adding this could happen only due to Modi's leadership.

Singh said only five crore people are left in the extremely poor category and added "we will abolish this poverty in the coming five to seven years".

Thane and Palghar are among the 17 Lok Sabha seats that will vote in the fourth and final phase in Maharashtra on April 29

Union Home Minister and senior BJP leader Rajnath Singh Wednesday said the number of terrorists killed in the Balakot air strikes was "high", and accused the Congress of politicising the anti-terror operation by the IAF.

Union Home Minister and senior BJP leader Rajnath Singh Wednesday said the number of terrorists killed in the Balakot air strikes was "high", and accused the Congress of politicising the anti-terror operation by the IAF. He hit out at Congress president Rahul Gandhi for using "foul language" against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Claiming the BJP would get a clear mandate in the Lok Sabha elections, Singh said he has no doubt in his mind that NDA allies will retain power with a three-fourths majority. He said the Congress is politicising the Balakot air strikes and dismissed its demand of proof of casualties in the operation as "uncalled for". The IAF had struck a Jaish-e-Mohammad terror training camp in Pakistan on February 26 in response to the February 14 Pulwama attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. "Should our forces have stopped there to count the dead bodies? Brave jawans do not count the dead bodies, they keep marching ahead... Eagles count bodies," he said. "Had there been 1, 2, 3 or 4 casualties, then we could have given a figure, but how can we tell (the exact casualties) when this figure was so high. I head the intelligence agencies. I would like to say we carried out the air strikes on the basis of credible and actionable inputs, and without violating Pakistan's sovereignty," the home minister said. Singh said if the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was hailed for splitting Pakistan in 1971, then why can't Modi be lauded for the Balakot air strikes. He addressed two election rallies in neighbouring Palghar district in support of Shiv Sena candidates from Thane and Palghar Lok Sabha constituencies. Lashing out at the opposition for pointing fingers at electronic voting machines, he said, "The (voting) trend in the first phase of elections suggested the NDA would get a two-thirds majority. Soon the opposition launched an attack on EMVs.'' "When these people (Congress) won (assembly polls) in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh last year, then EVMs were right, but when they saw we are inching towards victory, they again started crying foul on EVMs", he said. Singh strongly defended the alliance between the BJP and the Shiv Sena, saying it is based on their shared ideology of nationalism. ''No one can break the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance in the state'', Singh asserted. He said NCP chief Sharad Pawar had sensed his defeat in the Lok Sabha elections and hence decided to stay away from the poll fray. Singh, contesting from the Lucknow Lok Sabha seat, lauded the government of Prime Minister Modi and said under his watch India saw a quantum jump in its economic ranking. "We were languishing at the 9th position among the top 10 countries (before 2014). But since the Modi-led government took charge, our country witnessed a quantum jump and we secured the 6th position among the top 10 countries," the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said. "And I would like to say...In the coming years, we are going to attain the 5th position," Singh said. The home minister said India is no more a country of the poor people and "we are now one of the fastest-growing economies in the world". It is unfortunate that Congress president Rahul Gandhi is "using foul" language against the prime minister of the country, Singh said. ''To say `chowkidar chor hai' (Rahul's jibe at the PM over the Rafale deal) is stooping too low. I was shocked when I first heard such a language for our prime minister'', he said. "The Congress government did not buy a single next-generation fighter plane in the last 30 years. Had we got Rafale jets, we could have destroyed Pakistan-based (terror) camps while sitting in India," Singh said. Instead of attacking the PM, the Congress should introspect why it is losing base, he said. The BJP veteran said the Congress governments under Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi made "failed" efforts to eliminate poverty and Rahul Gandhi is now going on the same path (with his Nyay scheme). He said the Congress-led UPA government built 25 lakh housing units from 2008 to 2014, while the BJP-headed NDA government constructed 1.30 crore houses between 2014-2018. Nowhere in the world you will see the "karishma" (miracle) of 34 crore bank accounts being opened in such a short time (under Jan Dhan Yojana), he said, adding this could happen only due to Modi's leadership. Singh said only five crore people are left in the extremely poor category and added "we will abolish this poverty in the coming five to seven years". Thane and Palghar are among the 17 Lok Sabha seats that will vote in the fourth and final phase in Maharashtra on April 29

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Rajnath Singh slams Congress over Balakot air strikes, 'chowkidar' jibe

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/people-contesting-in-40-20-or-even-eight-seats-are-standing-in-queue-to-be-pm-modi-213371">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>&nbsp;on Thursday undertook a mega roadshow in his Lok Sabha constituency Varanasi with&nbsp;thousands in attendance chanting the prime minister's name.

The roadshow was&nbsp;scheduled for a day before PM Modi sets out to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-file-nomination-on-april-26-security-beefed-up-in-wake-of-roadshow-today-213354">file his nomination paper</a> on Friday.

The PM's roadshow passed through the main areas of the temple town before culminating at Dashashwamedh Ghat where he participated in "Ganga Aarti".

After arriving at Varanasi's Babatpur airport, PM Modi headed to the helipad at Banaras Hindu University and took a car to reach Lanka, a place in the BHU.

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The roadshow began from Lanka and moved to Dashashwamedh Ghat.

The authorities had&nbsp;deployed small drones to keep an eye on the ongoing activities in the roadshow.

The roadshow is expected to have&nbsp;stretched over 7 km.&nbsp;

Before embarking on the roadshow PM Modi first paid respect to the statue of Madan Mohan Malviya at the location.
<img alt="Road show in Varanasi" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="98b32554-2007-46bd-8003-6308e81fbb39" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/modi%202.JPG" />
&nbsp;

PM Modi was accompanied by several senior leaders of the party including union ministers Nitin Gadkari, Sushma Swaraj, Piyush Goyal and others.

Varanasi will go the polls on May 19th in the seventh phase.

&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday undertook a mega roadshow in his Lok Sabha constituency Varanasi with thousands in attendance chanting the prime minister's name.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday undertook a mega roadshow in his Lok Sabha constituency Varanasi with thousands in attendance chanting the prime minister's name. The roadshow was scheduled for a day before PM Modi sets out to file his nomination paper on Friday. The PM's roadshow passed through the main areas of the temple town before culminating at Dashashwamedh Ghat where he participated in "Ganga Aarti". After arriving at Varanasi's Babatpur airport, PM Modi headed to the helipad at Banaras Hindu University and took a car to reach Lanka, a place in the BHU. × The roadshow began from Lanka and moved to Dashashwamedh Ghat. The authorities had deployed small drones to keep an eye on the ongoing activities in the roadshow. The roadshow is expected to have stretched over 7 km. Before embarking on the roadshow PM Modi first paid respect to the statue of Madan Mohan Malviya at the location. PM Modi was accompanied by several senior leaders of the party including union ministers Nitin Gadkari, Sushma Swaraj, Piyush Goyal and others. Varanasi will go the polls on May 19th in the seventh phase. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi performs Ganga aarti after roadshow in Varanasi

India’s first Union cabinet under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru embraced the idea of lateral talent. Among the 15 members of the cabinet in 1947 was John Mathai, an economist who served as Railways Minister and then Finance Minister before leaving the government in 1950. &nbsp;

Over the years, inducting such lateral professional talent into the Union cabinet from outside party politics has grown rarer.&nbsp;

In welcome contrast, none of the nine professionals recently selected under the aegis of the UPSC to serve the government as joint secretaries, belong to a political party. All have specialised domain knowledge.&nbsp;

Amber Dubey, for example, was head of aerospace and defence at KPMG. He has been selected to join the civil aviation ministry where his experience of over 26 years in the aviation and defence domain will be useful as India reforms its aviation, space and defence technology sectors.&nbsp;

The selection of Dubey, an IIT Bombay and IIM Ahmedabad alumni, who has spent his entire career in the private sector, reflects the winds of change blowing over a critical area of Indian governance: technocratic talent. &nbsp;

The country is run at four levels. One, the Prime Minister-led Union cabinet and the Chief Minister-led state cabinets where specialised domain talent is slender. Two, the central and state bureaucracies which are largely filled with generalists, not specialists.&nbsp;

Three, local civic municipalities where again political affiliations often carry more weight than competence. Four, village panchayats and local bodies where caste and religion cast a long shadow.&nbsp;

In the United States, the cabinet is small (16 members) and mostly technocratic, drawn from the private sector, the professions and academia. The Narendra Modi cabinet is large (over 70 ministers and ministers of state) and apart from some honourable exceptions, does not exactly overflow with talent.&nbsp;

That is why the lateral selection of nine professionals as joint secretaries is a welcome development.&nbsp;

Consider the core competencies of some of the new lateral recruits: Dinesh Jagdale, CEO of Panama Renewable Energy Group, will join the renewable energy ministry. Kakoli Ghosh, who has deep knowledge of the multilateral farm sector, will join the agriculture ministry. Most of the others have been placed in ministries where their professional experience and knowledge will be put to good use.&nbsp;

These infusions are just the beginning. Indian bureaucracies, central and state, must absorb UPSC-selected lateral appointments of technocrats with ever-greater urgency.&nbsp;

In a technology-enabled world, specialisation is mandatory. IAS officers, however competent and dedicated, have two handicaps, First, they are generalists with little specialised domain expertise. Second, they are transferred so often across the country – for example, from animal husbandry to defence acquisitions – that focus is lost.&nbsp; 
 
The certainty of tenure among civil servants also engenders a sense of complacency. Over the years, the ministries of finance and defence, in particular, have developed a reputation for cronyism and corruption.&nbsp;

Leaks to the media in the Rafale fighter jet case and examples of department officers surreptitiously encouraging arms dealers (though they were explicitly banned in 2014) have damaged the national interest.&nbsp;

The introduction of fresh professional blood should act as a deterrent when the minister in charge of a particular portfolio has not been able to impose his or her will with sufficient authority on department officers.&nbsp;

If Prime Minister Narendra Modi does win a second term, it’s possible the BJP’s majority in Parliament will be significantly reduced. That is not a bad thing. Modi was used to running a compact state like Gujarat with a group of loyal and competent bureaucrats who dared not defy his authority or miss deadlines on projects.&nbsp;

The same modus operandi has not worked in the Byzantine culture of Delhi. Days after he took office as prime minister, Modi called more than 70 senior bureaucrats to meet him. As they stood in a line before him, he told them to work without fear or favour. They could come to him with any problems they had, he said.&nbsp;

The senior IAS officers, still standing in a parabolic line, nodded silently. But every one of them must have thought cynically to himself or herself that fear and favour were the time-honoured way bureaucracy worked. How would Modi break that habit? He hasn’t.&nbsp;

The series of legal setbacks in the 2G, Rafale and other cases has exposed the government’s poor selection of its law officers.&nbsp;

Equally lacklustre has been its communications strategy. Instead of being proactive over a range of contentious issues – from Rafale to electoral bonds – the government has been slow and reactive when perception damage has already been done.&nbsp;

In a 24x7 news cycle, every major government holds briefings in near real-time. The Chinese and American administrations respond to any issue concerning their government promptly and clearly. 
 
Even Pakistan’s information ministry reacts rapidly to events though in its case it is to add a positive spin to negative stories about, for example, Islamabad’s likely blacklisting by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) for terror financing and money laundering.&nbsp;

The under-utilisation by the Indian government of an articulate and credible Information &amp; Broadcasting (I&amp;B) minister Rajyavardhan Rathore, an Olympian and a former soldier, in delivering daily media briefings underscores how unprofessionally the government has communicated its agenda to voters. They will now deliver their verdict. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-lateral-hiring-in-govt-bridging-the-talent-deficit-2742935">original article)</a>

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

India’s first Union cabinet under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru embraced the idea of lateral talent. Among the 15 members of the cabinet in 1947 was John Mathai, an economist who served as Railways Minister and then Finance Minister before leaving the government in 1950.

India’s first Union cabinet under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru embraced the idea of lateral talent. Among the 15 members of the cabinet in 1947 was John Mathai, an economist who served as Railways Minister and then Finance Minister before leaving the government in 1950. Over the years, inducting such lateral professional talent into the Union cabinet from outside party politics has grown rarer. In welcome contrast, none of the nine professionals recently selected under the aegis of the UPSC to serve the government as joint secretaries, belong to a political party. All have specialised domain knowledge. Amber Dubey, for example, was head of aerospace and defence at KPMG. He has been selected to join the civil aviation ministry where his experience of over 26 years in the aviation and defence domain will be useful as India reforms its aviation, space and defence technology sectors. The selection of Dubey, an IIT Bombay and IIM Ahmedabad alumni, who has spent his entire career in the private sector, reflects the winds of change blowing over a critical area of Indian governance: technocratic talent. The country is run at four levels. One, the Prime Minister-led Union cabinet and the Chief Minister-led state cabinets where specialised domain talent is slender. Two, the central and state bureaucracies which are largely filled with generalists, not specialists. Three, local civic municipalities where again political affiliations often carry more weight than competence. Four, village panchayats and local bodies where caste and religion cast a long shadow. In the United States, the cabinet is small (16 members) and mostly technocratic, drawn from the private sector, the professions and academia. The Narendra Modi cabinet is large (over 70 ministers and ministers of state) and apart from some honourable exceptions, does not exactly overflow with talent. That is why the lateral selection of nine professionals as joint secretaries is a welcome development. Consider the core competencies of some of the new lateral recruits: Dinesh Jagdale, CEO of Panama Renewable Energy Group, will join the renewable energy ministry. Kakoli Ghosh, who has deep knowledge of the multilateral farm sector, will join the agriculture ministry. Most of the others have been placed in ministries where their professional experience and knowledge will be put to good use. These infusions are just the beginning. Indian bureaucracies, central and state, must absorb UPSC-selected lateral appointments of technocrats with ever-greater urgency. In a technology-enabled world, specialisation is mandatory. IAS officers, however competent and dedicated, have two handicaps, First, they are generalists with little specialised domain expertise. Second, they are transferred so often across the country – for example, from animal husbandry to defence acquisitions – that focus is lost. The certainty of tenure among civil servants also engenders a sense of complacency. Over the years, the ministries of finance and defence, in particular, have developed a reputation for cronyism and corruption. Leaks to the media in the Rafale fighter jet case and examples of department officers surreptitiously encouraging arms dealers (though they were explicitly banned in 2014) have damaged the national interest. The introduction of fresh professional blood should act as a deterrent when the minister in charge of a particular portfolio has not been able to impose his or her will with sufficient authority on department officers. If Prime Minister Narendra Modi does win a second term, it’s possible the BJP’s majority in Parliament will be significantly reduced. That is not a bad thing. Modi was used to running a compact state like Gujarat with a group of loyal and competent bureaucrats who dared not defy his authority or miss deadlines on projects. The same modus operandi has not worked in the Byzantine culture of Delhi. Days after he took office as prime minister, Modi called more than 70 senior bureaucrats to meet him. As they stood in a line before him, he told them to work without fear or favour. They could come to him with any problems they had, he said. The senior IAS officers, still standing in a parabolic line, nodded silently. But every one of them must have thought cynically to himself or herself that fear and favour were the time-honoured way bureaucracy worked. How would Modi break that habit? He hasn’t. The series of legal setbacks in the 2G, Rafale and other cases has exposed the government’s poor selection of its law officers. Equally lacklustre has been its communications strategy. Instead of being proactive over a range of contentious issues – from Rafale to electoral bonds – the government has been slow and reactive when perception damage has already been done. In a 24x7 news cycle, every major government holds briefings in near real-time. The Chinese and American administrations respond to any issue concerning their government promptly and clearly. Even Pakistan’s information ministry reacts rapidly to events though in its case it is to add a positive spin to negative stories about, for example, Islamabad’s likely blacklisting by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) for terror financing and money laundering. The under-utilisation by the Indian government of an articulate and credible Information & Broadcasting (I&B) minister Rajyavardhan Rathore, an Olympian and a former soldier, in delivering daily media briefings underscores how unprofessionally the government has communicated its agenda to voters. They will now deliver their verdict. (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.)

Inducting lateral professional skills into the cabinet by Narendra Modi government is a welcome step

BJP chief<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-is-in-confusion-not-us-amit-shah-on-reports-of-priyanka-gandhi-vadra-contesting-from-varanasi-213070&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjk7tXBkujhAhXX63MBHdyGDPcQFggOMAM&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2XT3XNbghOU6QzFF3SDOBh"> Amit Shah</a> Tuesday said that after three phases of voting in the Lok Sabha polls he is confident that his party will win the elections with a huge margin and form a government with full majority.

Shah visited Varanasi, the parliamentary constituency represented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and inaugurated a media centre of the party. He also opened the election office of PM Modi at Mehmoorganj.

&nbsp;"Looking at the voting in the first three phases, I believe that the BJP is going to form the next government with full majority," Shah told reporters at the launch of the media centre.

In Uttar Pradesh, the BJP and its ally will perform far better than the SP-BSP alliance and would win most of the seats of the state, he said.

He said the BJP's tally would be even better than the 2014 Lok Sabha election's.

On the question of the possibility of <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-is-in-confusion-not-us-amit-shah-on-reports-of-priyanka-gandhi-vadra-contesting-from-varanasi-213070&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjk7tXBkujhAhXX63MBHdyGDPcQFggOMAM&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2XT3XNbghOU6QzFF3SDOBh">Congress Priyanka Gandhi Vadra</a> contesting the Lok Sabha elections against Modi from Varanasi, Shah said that in a democracy, anyone can contest polls from anywhere in the country.

"We have declared our candidate and PM Modi is contesting elections again from Varanasi," he said.

He said Modi will hold a grand roadshow in the city on April 25 and file his nomination papers the next day.

He said senior BJP leaders, parliamentary board members and NDA allies, including Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Shiromani Akali Dal leaders, LJP president Ram Vilas Paswan, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will be present, among others, during the filing of the nomination papers.

On the question of giving Lok Sabha ticket to 2008 Malegaon blast accused Pragya Thakur, Shah said she was jailed on "false" charges "fabricated" by the Congress party.

Shah said Congress president Rahul Gandhi should apologise for "Hindu terror" and "Bhagwa terror" phrases.

Shah said the Congress released LeT terrorists from jail for vote bank politics and alleged that it jailed innocent people on false terror cases. It accused the party of sidestepping national security for vote bank politics.

He also said those who carried out corruption to the tune of Rs "12 lakh crore", would not be spared and their place is in jail.

"When did you meet Rahul Gandhi, why are you speaking his language?" Shah said when he was asked about the PM's 'nuclear-button' statement, and also a question on alleged "harassment" of political opponents by the BJP.

"In 2014, PM Modi had said that those who carried out corruption and scams to the tune of Rs 12 lakh crore, they will not be spared and their place is in jails," Shah told the press conference.

"Will they be spared and not be sent in jail? It's the public money and the public wants to know about each penny", he said.

He said the BJP never indulged in "politically motivated" harassment of its political opponents.

BJP chief Amit Shah Tuesday said that after three phases of voting in the Lok Sabha polls he is confident that his party will win the elections with a huge margin and form a government with full majority.

BJP chief Amit Shah Tuesday said that after three phases of voting in the Lok Sabha polls he is confident that his party will win the elections with a huge margin and form a government with full majority. Shah visited Varanasi, the parliamentary constituency represented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and inaugurated a media centre of the party. He also opened the election office of PM Modi at Mehmoorganj. "Looking at the voting in the first three phases, I believe that the BJP is going to form the next government with full majority," Shah told reporters at the launch of the media centre. In Uttar Pradesh, the BJP and its ally will perform far better than the SP-BSP alliance and would win most of the seats of the state, he said. He said the BJP's tally would be even better than the 2014 Lok Sabha election's. On the question of the possibility of Congress Priyanka Gandhi Vadra contesting the Lok Sabha elections against Modi from Varanasi, Shah said that in a democracy, anyone can contest polls from anywhere in the country. "We have declared our candidate and PM Modi is contesting elections again from Varanasi," he said. He said Modi will hold a grand roadshow in the city on April 25 and file his nomination papers the next day. He said senior BJP leaders, parliamentary board members and NDA allies, including Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Shiromani Akali Dal leaders, LJP president Ram Vilas Paswan, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will be present, among others, during the filing of the nomination papers. On the question of giving Lok Sabha ticket to 2008 Malegaon blast accused Pragya Thakur, Shah said she was jailed on "false" charges "fabricated" by the Congress party. Shah said Congress president Rahul Gandhi should apologise for "Hindu terror" and "Bhagwa terror" phrases. Shah said the Congress released LeT terrorists from jail for vote bank politics and alleged that it jailed innocent people on false terror cases. It accused the party of sidestepping national security for vote bank politics. He also said those who carried out corruption to the tune of Rs "12 lakh crore", would not be spared and their place is in jail. "When did you meet Rahul Gandhi, why are you speaking his language?" Shah said when he was asked about the PM's 'nuclear-button' statement, and also a question on alleged "harassment" of political opponents by the BJP. "In 2014, PM Modi had said that those who carried out corruption and scams to the tune of Rs 12 lakh crore, they will not be spared and their place is in jails," Shah told the press conference. "Will they be spared and not be sent in jail? It's the public money and the public wants to know about each penny", he said. He said the BJP never indulged in "politically motivated" harassment of its political opponents.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Looking at voting in first three phases, I'm confident BJP will win, says Amit Shah

Union Home Minister <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-rajnath-singh-files-nomination-from-lucknow-210886&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiYyOLXjOjhAhVr6nMBHR_MCLEQFggOMAM&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1D8RizZQlIkCEDFGqb-e7C">Rajnath Singh</a> on Tuesday said that by the year 2030 India could replace any one of the three world superpowers (Russia, China and America).

"By 2030 or 2031 Bharat will replace any one of the three superpowers, either Russia, China or America from the list of top three countries of the world in terms of economy and strength," said Rajnath Singh while addressing an election rally at Chatra.

He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi led government has provided an immense boost to the economy of India.

"In 2014 we were at ninth place among the top 10 countries in terms of the size of the economy. After four years of governance led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in 2018 we jumped to the sixth position," he said.

"And I say it with confidence that not in few years but in few months we will be at the fifth place," said Rajnath.

The Home Minister also said that the Prime Minister had assured that every paise earmarked for the welfare of the people reaches the common man.

"Rajiv Gandhi helplessly said that out of 100 Paise given by him only 16 Paise manages to reach the people but Prime Minister Narendra Modi has overcome this and now when 100 paise is sent, 100 paise reaches your pocket," said Singh.

Rajnath Singh also gave an assurance of completely wiping out Naxalism.

"Naxalism which was spread across 126 districts of the country is now restricted to only seven to eight districts. I assure you it will be entirely uprooted from India in the next three to four years," he said.

Jharkhand has 14 Lok Sabha constituencies which will go for polls on 29 April, 6 May, 12 May and 19 May for its 3, 4, 4 and 3 seats respectively.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said that by the year 2030 India could replace any one of the three world superpowers (Russia, China and America). "By 2030 or 2031 Bharat will replace any one of the three superpowers, either Russia, China or America from the list of top three countries of the world in terms of economy and strength," said Rajnath Singh while addressing an election rally at Chatra.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said that by the year 2030 India could replace any one of the three world superpowers (Russia, China and America). "By 2030 or 2031 Bharat will replace any one of the three superpowers, either Russia, China or America from the list of top three countries of the world in terms of economy and strength," said Rajnath Singh while addressing an election rally at Chatra. He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi led government has provided an immense boost to the economy of India. "In 2014 we were at ninth place among the top 10 countries in terms of the size of the economy. After four years of governance led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in 2018 we jumped to the sixth position," he said. "And I say it with confidence that not in few years but in few months we will be at the fifth place," said Rajnath. The Home Minister also said that the Prime Minister had assured that every paise earmarked for the welfare of the people reaches the common man. "Rajiv Gandhi helplessly said that out of 100 Paise given by him only 16 Paise manages to reach the people but Prime Minister Narendra Modi has overcome this and now when 100 paise is sent, 100 paise reaches your pocket," said Singh. Rajnath Singh also gave an assurance of completely wiping out Naxalism. "Naxalism which was spread across 126 districts of the country is now restricted to only seven to eight districts. I assure you it will be entirely uprooted from India in the next three to four years," he said. Jharkhand has 14 Lok Sabha constituencies which will go for polls on 29 April, 6 May, 12 May and 19 May for its 3, 4, 4 and 3 seats respectively.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: By 2030 India will replace one of the top 3 superpowers, says Rajnath Singh

Upset over the refusal of ticket for the Lok Sabha polls, BJP sitting MP from North West Delhi Udit Raj Tuesday said the party might have decided to drop him for protesting against the apex court's order that nullified the stringent provisions of the Dalit protection law.

The <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-gautam-gambhir-richest-among-lok-sabha-candidates-in-delhi-213169&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjAso6Jn-jhAhVLqI8KHblqDXQQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw32x_HeZbVEMD9LKhv7JBud">BJP</a> has replaced Raj from the North West Lok Sabha constituency with Punjabi Sufi singer Hans Raj Hans.

Raj, who had earlier said he would contest as an independent candidate if the party did not announce his candidature, said he will decide his future course of action after consulting his supporters.

"I will not contest as an independent candidate. They (BJP) are forcing me to leave the party but I have not taken a decision on quitting. I will consult my supporters from across the country," he said.

Talking about the possible reasons why he was denied a ticket, Raj said, "When there was bandh in 2018 on SC-ST amendment, I protested, that's why the party leadership seemed to be unhappy with me.

When there was no government recruitment happening, was I not supposed to raise the issue? I will continue to raise the issues of Dalits", he said.

In 2018, the Supreme Court had issued a slew of guidelines to protect public servants and private employees from arbitrary arrests under the Atrocities Act.

The court directed that public servants can only be arrested with the written permission of their appointing authority.

This was seen as a dilution of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, which led to protests across the country.

The government later brought in an amendment to nullify the apex court's order.&nbsp;

Raj claimed that Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, three to four months ago, had told him that he would not be given a ticket.

"I am the best performer in the BJP's internal survey. Nobody talked to me on denial of ticket", he said.

''If I have faith in Modi and Shah, they should have told me that I would not be given the ticket. I have not resigned yet. Showing faith in Modi, we had merged our party with the BJP. Why am I being punished?" he asked.

On the intervening night of Monday and Tuesday, supporters of Raj and Hans had raised slogans at the Delhi BJP office on Pandit Pant Marg.

Raj, along with supporters, had reached the office after hearing about Hans being considered by the party for the North West Delhi seat.

The former Indian Revenue Service officer had merged his Indian Justice Party (IJP) with the BJP and contested the Lok Sabha election from North West Delhi in 2014.

Raj claimed Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari had assured him of a ticket from North West Delhi.

He said he is in contact with senior party leaders Nirmala Sitharaman and Arun Jaitley in this regard.

The BJP MP has often held views contrary to the party's stand, especially during the Sabarimala issue and 'Bharat Bandh' called by Dalit organisations last year.

Earlier this month, he was at the centre of controversy after being caught in a sting done on several MPs, including Raj, which purportedly showed lawmakers accepting the use of black money for contesting polls.

Upset over the refusal of ticket for the Lok Sabha polls, BJP sitting MP from North West Delhi Udit Raj Tuesday said the party might have decided to drop him for protesting against the apex court's order that nullified the stringent provisions of the Dalit protection law.

Upset over the refusal of ticket for the Lok Sabha polls, BJP sitting MP from North West Delhi Udit Raj Tuesday said the party might have decided to drop him for protesting against the apex court's order that nullified the stringent provisions of the Dalit protection law. The BJP has replaced Raj from the North West Lok Sabha constituency with Punjabi Sufi singer Hans Raj Hans. Raj, who had earlier said he would contest as an independent candidate if the party did not announce his candidature, said he will decide his future course of action after consulting his supporters. "I will not contest as an independent candidate. They (BJP) are forcing me to leave the party but I have not taken a decision on quitting. I will consult my supporters from across the country," he said. Talking about the possible reasons why he was denied a ticket, Raj said, "When there was bandh in 2018 on SC-ST amendment, I protested, that's why the party leadership seemed to be unhappy with me. When there was no government recruitment happening, was I not supposed to raise the issue? I will continue to raise the issues of Dalits", he said. In 2018, the Supreme Court had issued a slew of guidelines to protect public servants and private employees from arbitrary arrests under the Atrocities Act. The court directed that public servants can only be arrested with the written permission of their appointing authority. This was seen as a dilution of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, which led to protests across the country. The government later brought in an amendment to nullify the apex court's order. Raj claimed that Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, three to four months ago, had told him that he would not be given a ticket. "I am the best performer in the BJP's internal survey. Nobody talked to me on denial of ticket", he said. ''If I have faith in Modi and Shah, they should have told me that I would not be given the ticket. I have not resigned yet. Showing faith in Modi, we had merged our party with the BJP. Why am I being punished?" he asked. On the intervening night of Monday and Tuesday, supporters of Raj and Hans had raised slogans at the Delhi BJP office on Pandit Pant Marg. Raj, along with supporters, had reached the office after hearing about Hans being considered by the party for the North West Delhi seat. The former Indian Revenue Service officer had merged his Indian Justice Party (IJP) with the BJP and contested the Lok Sabha election from North West Delhi in 2014. Raj claimed Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari had assured him of a ticket from North West Delhi. He said he is in contact with senior party leaders Nirmala Sitharaman and Arun Jaitley in this regard. The BJP MP has often held views contrary to the party's stand, especially during the Sabarimala issue and 'Bharat Bandh' called by Dalit organisations last year. Earlier this month, he was at the centre of controversy after being caught in a sting done on several MPs, including Raj, which purportedly showed lawmakers accepting the use of black money for contesting polls.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Might have been denied ticket as I protested against Supreme Court order on Dalit law says Udit Raj

Akshay Kumar interviewed Narendra Modi on Wednesday that was watched by the entire nation. In a strictly 'non-political' chat, Kumar asked the Prime Minister about myriad topics, including his lifestyle, his sense of dressing, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-have-many-friends-in-opposition-mamata-banerjee-sends-kurtas-sweets-to-me-pm-narendra-modi-to-akshay-kumar-213161">his friends in the opposition</a> and his keen interest in social media. Perhaps the answer that stumped the actor most was Modi's comment on his wife Twinkle Khanna.&nbsp;

The former actress is now a well-known columnist and author and has been known to be critical about the PM and has expressed the same in many of her columns. Turns out the PM Modi has been following her work.&nbsp;

While mentioning how he followed Kumar and his wife on Twitter, Modi said, "I follow you (Akshay Kumar) and Twinkle Khanna Ji on Twitter. From the way she targets me, I understand there must be peace in your family life," and Akshay Kumar looked bemused. "All her anger must have been spent on me, and so you must be feeling at peace,” he added.

The Prime Minister then went on to share a small incident where he had mat Twinkle Khanna's maternal grandfather, Chunnibhai Kapadia many years back during a fundraiser.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> PM Narendra Modi speaks on Akshay Kumar &amp; Twinkle Khanna <a href="https://t.co/r0Y2fCjaK0">pic.twitter.com/r0Y2fCjaK0</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1120914330025730049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Soon after the interview was aired, Twinkle Khanna took to Twitter to respond to PM's comment. The actress took Modi's observation in her stride and tweeted, "I have a rather positive way of looking at this - Not only is the Prime Minister aware that I exist but he actually reads my work."

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I have a rather positive way of looking at this-Not only is the Prime Minister aware that I exist but he actually reads my work :) 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/Pkk4tKEVHm">https://t.co/Pkk4tKEVHm</a>
— Twinkle Khanna (@mrsfunnybones) <a href="https://twitter.com/mrsfunnybones/status/1120918027002712065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/watch-pm-narendra-modis-non-political-interview-with-bollywood-actor-akshay-kumar-213154">In the interview,</a> Modi opened up about his family life, his childhood spent in Gujarat, and how he had aspired to join the army initially.

Akshay Kumar interviewed Narendra Modi on Wednesday that was watched by the entire nation. In a strictly 'non-political' chat, Kumar asked the Prime Minister about myriad topics, including his lifestyle, his sense of dressing, his friends in the opposition and his keen interest in social media.

Akshay Kumar interviewed Narendra Modi on Wednesday that was watched by the entire nation. In a strictly 'non-political' chat, Kumar asked the Prime Minister about myriad topics, including his lifestyle, his sense of dressing, his friends in the opposition and his keen interest in social media. Perhaps the answer that stumped the actor most was Modi's comment on his wife Twinkle Khanna. The former actress is now a well-known columnist and author and has been known to be critical about the PM and has expressed the same in many of her columns. Turns out the PM Modi has been following her work. While mentioning how he followed Kumar and his wife on Twitter, Modi said, "I follow you (Akshay Kumar) and Twinkle Khanna Ji on Twitter. From the way she targets me, I understand there must be peace in your family life," and Akshay Kumar looked bemused. "All her anger must have been spent on me, and so you must be feeling at peace,” he added. The Prime Minister then went on to share a small incident where he had mat Twinkle Khanna's maternal grandfather, Chunnibhai Kapadia many years back during a fundraiser. #WATCH PM Narendra Modi speaks on Akshay Kumar & Twinkle Khanna pic.twitter.com/r0Y2fCjaK0 — ANI (@ANI) April 24, 2019 × Soon after the interview was aired, Twinkle Khanna took to Twitter to respond to PM's comment. The actress took Modi's observation in her stride and tweeted, "I have a rather positive way of looking at this - Not only is the Prime Minister aware that I exist but he actually reads my work." I have a rather positive way of looking at this-Not only is the Prime Minister aware that I exist but he actually reads my work :) 🙏 https://t.co/Pkk4tKEVHm — Twinkle Khanna (@mrsfunnybones) April 24, 2019 × In the interview, Modi opened up about his family life, his childhood spent in Gujarat, and how he had aspired to join the army initially.

Narendra Modi mentions Twinkle Khanna to Akshay Kumar; the actress has this to say

Former Indian opener <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gautam-gambhir-the-new-bjp-lok-sabha-candidate-holds-roadshow-in-delhi-212847&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwj1t-PhmejhAhWj6nMBHV3DC-YQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw06HklgbCthk5Ck8wFg01eC">Gautam Gambhir</a> is the richest among all the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-sheila-dikshit-gautam-gambhir-vijender-singh-file-nominations-212991&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwj1t-PhmejhAhWj6nMBHV3DC-YQFggLMAI&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1egO5VJX1iiXEuFRKapdiT">candidates in fray for the Lok Sabha elections in Delhi</a> with total assets worth Rs 147 crores.

The cricketer-turned-politician, who will be making his electoral debut from East Delhi, has shown an income of nearly Rs 12.40 crores in the income tax returns filed for 2017-18.

His wife Natasha Gambhir declared an income of Rs 6.15 lakhs&nbsp;in the IT returns filed during the same period.

Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari has a total of movable and immovable assets worth over Rs 24 crores, an increase of over Rs 4.33 crores from 2014, according to his poll affidavit.

He has shown an income of Rs 48.03 lakhs in the income tax return for 2017-18 while in the affidavit filed in 2014, he had declared an income of over Rs 85 lakhs.

BJP MP from South Delhi Ramesh Bidhuri has movable and immovable assets worth Rs 18 crore, an increase of close to Rs 3.5 crore in the last five years, according to his affidavit.

Bidhuri, his wife and dependent Himanshu have shown an income of over Rs 16.72 lakhs, Rs 3.09 lakhs and Rs 3.18 lakhs respectively in the IT returns filed in 2017-18.

The 57-year-old leader, who is pitted against debutants Vijender Singh from Congress and Aam Aadmi Party's Raghav Chadha for the South Delhi seat, declared movable assets worth over Rs 1.37 crores while his wife has cash and jewellery worth over Rs 13.21 lakhs.&nbsp;

He has declared immovable assets worth Rs 11.80 crores while his wife has properties worth 4.57 crores.

He has shown liabilities of over Rs 20.38 lakhs.

Bidhuri completed his graduation from the Delhi University's Shaheed Bhagat Singh College and LLB from Chaudhary Charan Singh University from Meerut.

Congress candidate for South Delhi Vijender Singh has declared movable and immovable assets worth Rs 3.57 crores and Rs 5.05 crores respectively.

The former chief minister and Congress candidate Sheila Dikshit, who filed her nomination from the North-East Delhi Lok Sabha constituency on Tuesday, declared personal assets worth over Rs 4.92 crores.

According to an affidavit filed by Dikshit, the 81-year-old Congress veteran has an apartment in Nizamuddin area which has a market value of around Rs 1.88 crore.

Former Indian opener Gambhir (37) has declared immovable and movable assets worth over Rs 147 crores.

He has a criminal case of cheating pending against him.

He declared movable assets estimated to be worth over Rs 116 crores and immovable assets worth Rs 28 crores and liabilities nearly Rs 34.20 crores in his poll affidavit.

He completed his schooling from Modern School, Barakhamba Road and did his graduation from Delhi University's Hindu College.

Punjabi singer Hans Raj Hans, who will be contesting from the North West Delhi, showed an income of nearly Rs 9.28 lakhs in the income tax returns filed in 2017-18.

In the 2013-14 financial year, he had declared an income of nearly Rs 22.64 lakhs.

He and his wife have declared movable assets worth Rs 1.44 crores and Rs 18.50 lakhs respectively. His immovable assets are worth Rs 11.48 crore.

He owns a Toyota Innova, Ford Endeavour and Maruti Gypsy. He has declared liabilities of over Rs 23.89 lakhs.

Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir is the richest among all the candidates in fray for the Lok Sabha elections in Delhi with total assets worth Rs 147 crores. The cricketer-turned-politician, who will be making his electoral debut from East Delhi, has shown an income of nearly Rs 12.

Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir is the richest among all the candidates in fray for the Lok Sabha elections in Delhi with total assets worth Rs 147 crores. The cricketer-turned-politician, who will be making his electoral debut from East Delhi, has shown an income of nearly Rs 12.40 crores in the income tax returns filed for 2017-18. His wife Natasha Gambhir declared an income of Rs 6.15 lakhs in the IT returns filed during the same period. Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari has a total of movable and immovable assets worth over Rs 24 crores, an increase of over Rs 4.33 crores from 2014, according to his poll affidavit. He has shown an income of Rs 48.03 lakhs in the income tax return for 2017-18 while in the affidavit filed in 2014, he had declared an income of over Rs 85 lakhs. BJP MP from South Delhi Ramesh Bidhuri has movable and immovable assets worth Rs 18 crore, an increase of close to Rs 3.5 crore in the last five years, according to his affidavit. Bidhuri, his wife and dependent Himanshu have shown an income of over Rs 16.72 lakhs, Rs 3.09 lakhs and Rs 3.18 lakhs respectively in the IT returns filed in 2017-18. The 57-year-old leader, who is pitted against debutants Vijender Singh from Congress and Aam Aadmi Party's Raghav Chadha for the South Delhi seat, declared movable assets worth over Rs 1.37 crores while his wife has cash and jewellery worth over Rs 13.21 lakhs. He has declared immovable assets worth Rs 11.80 crores while his wife has properties worth 4.57 crores. He has shown liabilities of over Rs 20.38 lakhs. Bidhuri completed his graduation from the Delhi University's Shaheed Bhagat Singh College and LLB from Chaudhary Charan Singh University from Meerut. Congress candidate for South Delhi Vijender Singh has declared movable and immovable assets worth Rs 3.57 crores and Rs 5.05 crores respectively. The former chief minister and Congress candidate Sheila Dikshit, who filed her nomination from the North-East Delhi Lok Sabha constituency on Tuesday, declared personal assets worth over Rs 4.92 crores. According to an affidavit filed by Dikshit, the 81-year-old Congress veteran has an apartment in Nizamuddin area which has a market value of around Rs 1.88 crore. Former Indian opener Gambhir (37) has declared immovable and movable assets worth over Rs 147 crores. He has a criminal case of cheating pending against him. He declared movable assets estimated to be worth over Rs 116 crores and immovable assets worth Rs 28 crores and liabilities nearly Rs 34.20 crores in his poll affidavit. He completed his schooling from Modern School, Barakhamba Road and did his graduation from Delhi University's Hindu College. Punjabi singer Hans Raj Hans, who will be contesting from the North West Delhi, showed an income of nearly Rs 9.28 lakhs in the income tax returns filed in 2017-18. In the 2013-14 financial year, he had declared an income of nearly Rs 22.64 lakhs. He and his wife have declared movable assets worth Rs 1.44 crores and Rs 18.50 lakhs respectively. His immovable assets are worth Rs 11.48 crore. He owns a Toyota Innova, Ford Endeavour and Maruti Gypsy. He has declared liabilities of over Rs 23.89 lakhs.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Gautam Gambhir richest among Lok Sabha candidates in Delhi

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued a contempt notice to Congress president Rahul Gandhi for his remarks on the court's verdict in Rafale case. Gandhi had called Prime Minister Narendra Modi a thief attributing his remark to the court's judgement.

In a criminal contempt case, when the court issues a notice, the person to whom the notice is served must appear in person unless exempted by the court itself. So far, the Supreme Court hasn't exempted Rahul Gandhi, so he will have to appear in person.

The Congress president had on April 10 claimed that the apex court has made it "clear" that Prime Minister Narendra Modi "committed a theft". He had made the statement while interacting with reporters in Amethi after filing his nomination papers.

BJP MP Meenakshi Lekhi had moved court against Rahul Gandhi's remark. "The words used and attributed by him to Supreme Court in the Rafale case has been made to appear something else. He is replacing his personal statement as Supreme Court's order and trying to create prejudice," Lekhi said in her petition.

The court asked the Congress president to explain his remark and in his reply yesterday, Gandhi said he <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/regret-chowkidar-chor-hai-remark-against-pm-modi-in-rafale-deal-rahul-gandhi-in-response-to-supreme-court-notice-212506">"regrets" the remarks</a>. In his affidavit, the Congress president said the remark that the Supreme Court has agreed that PM Modi indulged in corruption in Rafale deal was "incorrectly attributed" to the court. Gandhi further said in the affidavit that he had made the statements in the heat of political campaigning which have been misused by his opponents.

"Rahul says he made wrong statements, he did not read the order. It was not clear to him and he holds SC in highest esteem. There is no apology from him in the affidavit. It only mentions the word regret," senior lawyer Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for Lekhi, told the bench headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi.

Rahul Gandhi's response is mere lip service, Rohatgi added.

Countering the argument, Gandhi's lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi said, "For the last 18 months it (chowkidaar chor hai) is a political slogan and he (Rahul Gandhi) stands by it. If you want a political flog, then be it. There are 12 statements from the ruling party saying they got a clean chit from Supreme Court; even I can file contempt against such remarks."

He urged the top court to dismiss the plea, but CJI Gogoi issued contempt notice to Gandhi and posted the matter for further hearing on April 30.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued a contempt notice to Congress president Rahul Gandhi for his remarks on the court's verdict in Rafale case. Gandhi had called Prime Minister Narendra Modi a thief attributing his remark to the court's judgement.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued a contempt notice to Congress president Rahul Gandhi for his remarks on the court's verdict in Rafale case. Gandhi had called Prime Minister Narendra Modi a thief attributing his remark to the court's judgement. In a criminal contempt case, when the court issues a notice, the person to whom the notice is served must appear in person unless exempted by the court itself. So far, the Supreme Court hasn't exempted Rahul Gandhi, so he will have to appear in person. The Congress president had on April 10 claimed that the apex court has made it "clear" that Prime Minister Narendra Modi "committed a theft". He had made the statement while interacting with reporters in Amethi after filing his nomination papers. BJP MP Meenakshi Lekhi had moved court against Rahul Gandhi's remark. "The words used and attributed by him to Supreme Court in the Rafale case has been made to appear something else. He is replacing his personal statement as Supreme Court's order and trying to create prejudice," Lekhi said in her petition. The court asked the Congress president to explain his remark and in his reply yesterday, Gandhi said he "regrets" the remarks. In his affidavit, the Congress president said the remark that the Supreme Court has agreed that PM Modi indulged in corruption in Rafale deal was "incorrectly attributed" to the court. Gandhi further said in the affidavit that he had made the statements in the heat of political campaigning which have been misused by his opponents. "Rahul says he made wrong statements, he did not read the order. It was not clear to him and he holds SC in highest esteem. There is no apology from him in the affidavit. It only mentions the word regret," senior lawyer Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for Lekhi, told the bench headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi. Rahul Gandhi's response is mere lip service, Rohatgi added. Countering the argument, Gandhi's lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi said, "For the last 18 months it (chowkidaar chor hai) is a political slogan and he (Rahul Gandhi) stands by it. If you want a political flog, then be it. There are 12 statements from the ruling party saying they got a clean chit from Supreme Court; even I can file contempt against such remarks." He urged the top court to dismiss the plea, but CJI Gogoi issued contempt notice to Gandhi and posted the matter for further hearing on April 30.

Supreme Court issues contempt notice to Rahul Gandhi for attributing 'chowkidar chor hai' remark to its order

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-phase-3-voting-on-april-23-212719">Lok Sabha polls 2019 live: Voting underway for phase 3; Rahul Gandhi, Amit Shah in fray</a>

PM Modi cast his vote at a polling booth in Nishan Higher Secondary School in Ranip, Ahmedabad. Drawing an analogy between voting and Kumbh, Modi said him exercising his franchise is like taking a holy dip in Kumbh.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorists-power-is-ied-peoples-power-is-voter-id-says-pm-modi-after-casting-his-vote-212771">Weapon of terrorism is IED, strength of democracy is voter ID, says PM Modi after casting his vote</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday cast his vote in the third phase of Lok Sabha elections and appealed to first-time voters to cast their votes.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his mother Heeraben in Ahmedabad before casting his vote. Modi sought his mother's blessings and then reached the polling booth in an open-top jeep.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-imposes-state-of-emergency-after-attacks-blamed-on-islamists-212724">Sri Lanka imposes state of emergency after attacks blamed on Islamists</a>

Sri Lanka on Tuesday imposed a state of emergency hours after the government blamed a local Islamist group for a series of suicide bomb blasts that killed at least 290 people, including dozens of foreigners.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/amazon-to-close-online-store-in-china-by-july-18-212735">Amazon to shut its online store in China by July 18</a>

Amazon announced last Thursday that it will shut its China online store by July 18 and will no longer operate a marketplace, nor provide seller services on Amazon.cn.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tesla-says-robotaxis-with-no-human-drivers-coming-to-us-roads-next-year-212733">Tesla says robotaxis with no human drivers coming to US roads next year&nbsp;</a>

Chief Executive Elon Musk said Tesla Inc robotaxis with no human drivers would be available in some US markets next year, continuing a habit of bold pronouncements that have excited many investors while often missing deadlines.

Lok Sabha polls 2019 live: Voting underway for phase 3; Rahul Gandhi, Amit Shah in fray PM Modi cast his vote at a polling booth in Nishan Higher Secondary School in Ranip, Ahmedabad.

Lok Sabha polls 2019 live: Voting underway for phase 3; Rahul Gandhi, Amit Shah in fray PM Modi cast his vote at a polling booth in Nishan Higher Secondary School in Ranip, Ahmedabad. Drawing an analogy between voting and Kumbh, Modi said him exercising his franchise is like taking a holy dip in Kumbh. Weapon of terrorism is IED, strength of democracy is voter ID, says PM Modi after casting his vote Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday cast his vote in the third phase of Lok Sabha elections and appealed to first-time voters to cast their votes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his mother Heeraben in Ahmedabad before casting his vote. Modi sought his mother's blessings and then reached the polling booth in an open-top jeep. Sri Lanka imposes state of emergency after attacks blamed on Islamists Sri Lanka on Tuesday imposed a state of emergency hours after the government blamed a local Islamist group for a series of suicide bomb blasts that killed at least 290 people, including dozens of foreigners. Amazon to shut its online store in China by July 18 Amazon announced last Thursday that it will shut its China online store by July 18 and will no longer operate a marketplace, nor provide seller services on Amazon.cn. Tesla says robotaxis with no human drivers coming to US roads next year Chief Executive Elon Musk said Tesla Inc robotaxis with no human drivers would be available in some US markets next year, continuing a habit of bold pronouncements that have excited many investors while often missing deadlines.

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