The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday (August 17) named Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan as the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) candidate for the Vice President’s post. The decision was taken at the BJP Parliamentary Board meeting to finalise the party’s nominee. If elected, Radhakrishnan will replace former India's President Jagdeep Dhankhar, who stepped down last month due to some health concerns. According to some sources, Radhakrishnan is also likely to attend the NDA Parliamentary Party meeting on Tuesday (August 19).&nbsp; The Election Commission has also announced that the voting for the new Vice President will be held on September 9. The last date for filing nomination forms is August 21 and scrutiny of documents will take place on August 22.On Radhakrishnan's announcement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated him on X, writing, “In his long years in public life, Thiru CP Radhakrishnan Ji has distinguished himself with his dedication, humility and intellect. During the various positions he has held, he has always focused on community service and empowering the marginalised. He has done extensive work at the grassroots in Tamil Nadu. I am glad that the NDA family has decided to nominate him as the Vice Presidential candidate of our alliance.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">In his long years in public life, Thiru CP Radhakrishnan Ji has distinguished himself with his dedication, humility and intellect. During the various positions he has held, he has always focused on community service and empowering the marginalised. He has done extensive work at… <a href="https://t.co/WrbKl4LB9S">pic.twitter.com/WrbKl4LB9S</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1957098105054417214?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Who is CP Radhakrishnan?</h2>Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan was born on 20 October, 1957 in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu and he holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration.&nbsp;He is a long-time member of the RSS and was also a part of the Bharatiya Janasangh’s State Executive Committee in 1974. In the year 2004 to 2007, he served as the BJP’s Tamil Nadu State President. Radhakrishnan further took charge as Maharashtra Governor on 31 July, 2024. Before becoming the governor of the Maharashtra, earlier he served as Jharkhand Governor for nearly one and a half years.Apart from the politics, Radhakrishnan has a keen interest in sports, as he was a college-level table tennis champion and a long-distance runner. He also enjoys playing cricket and volleyball, according to the Maharashtra Raj Bhavan website.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday (Aug 17) announced Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan as the NDA's candidate for the Vice-President election, scheduled for September 9.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday (August 17) named Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan as the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) candidate for the Vice President’s post. The decision was taken at the BJP Parliamentary Board meeting to finalise the party’s nominee. If elected, Radhakrishnan will replace former India's President Jagdeep Dhankhar, who stepped down last month due to some health concerns. According to some sources, Radhakrishnan is also likely to attend the NDA Parliamentary Party meeting on Tuesday (August 19). The Election Commission has also announced that the voting for the new Vice President will be held on September 9. The last date for filing nomination forms is August 21 and scrutiny of documents will take place on August 22. On Radhakrishnan's announcement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated him on X, writing, “In his long years in public life, Thiru CP Radhakrishnan Ji has distinguished himself with his dedication, humility and intellect. During the various positions he has held, he has always focused on community service and empowering the marginalised. He has done extensive work at the grassroots in Tamil Nadu. I am glad that the NDA family has decided to nominate him as the Vice Presidential candidate of our alliance.”

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday (Aug 17) announced Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan as the NDA's candidate for the Vice-President election, scheduled for September 9.

Who is CP Radhakrishnan? NDA's candidate for Vice President elections

Narendra Modi will take oath for a third term as India's prime minister at a ceremony in New Delhi on Sunday (June 9). 
 
India general&nbsp;elections, the world's largest election exercise, has wrapped up with Narendra Modi-led NDA registering a win. Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) individually won 240 seats. The alliance was targeting "400 paar" i.e., over 400 seats, this time. However, it had to settle for 292. This helped pave the way for a coalition NDA government that on Wednesday (Jun 5) formally elected Modi as the bloc's leader.&nbsp;

Modi meets President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan

Narendra Modi meets President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan and stakes claim to form the government. He was chosen as the leader of the NDA Parliamentary Party today.

Modi meets veteran BJP leaders

PM Modi meets veteran leader LK Advani at the latter's residence in New Delhi on Friday.&nbsp;PM later headed to&nbsp;meets veteran BJP leader Murli Manohar at his residence.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Watch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Watch</a> | Indian <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PMModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PMModi</a> meets veteran leader <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LKAdvani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LKAdvani</a> at the latter's residence in New Delhi. 
 
PM Modi won a third-term in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2024</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ElectionsOnWION?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ElectionsOnWION</a> 
 
(Source: ANI) <a href="https://t.co/DF43LTiQHD">pic.twitter.com/DF43LTiQHD</a>
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Chirag Paswan elected as LJP (Ram Vilas) Parliamentary Party leader

Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) chief Chirag Paswan has been&nbsp;elected as the LJP (Ram Vilas) Parliamentary Party leader after a meeting in Delhi. As per reports all five MPs of the party namely Veena Devi, Arun Bharti, Shambhavi Choudhary and Rajesh Verma along with LJP President Chirag Paswan were present in the meeting.

Chirag Paswan dismissed rumours of demands by his party, and said, "LJP is completely dedicated to our leader Narendra Modi. There is no doubt about it. In the NDA meeting held the day before yesterday, LJP extended the support to the leadership of PM Modi without any conditions."

"So, the party has no demands. I can say on behalf of the NDA that no party presented any demands that day. Everyone extended the support unconditionally. Today, NDA will probably submit the letter of support to PM Modi’s leadership to the President today," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Narendra Modi will take oath for a third term as India's prime minister at a ceremony in New Delhi on Sunday (June 9). India general elections, the world's largest election exercise, has wrapped up with Narendra Modi-led NDA registering a win.

Narendra Modi will take oath for a third term as India's prime minister at a ceremony in New Delhi on Sunday (June 9). India general elections, the world's largest election exercise, has wrapped up with Narendra Modi-led NDA registering a win. Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) individually won 240 seats. The alliance was targeting "400 paar" i.e., over 400 seats, this time. However, it had to settle for 292. This helped pave the way for a coalition NDA government that on Wednesday (Jun 5) formally elected Modi as the bloc's leader. Modi meets President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Narendra Modi meets President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan and stakes claim to form the government. He was chosen as the leader of the NDA Parliamentary Party today. Modi meets veteran BJP leaders PM Modi meets veteran leader LK Advani at the latter's residence in New Delhi on Friday. PM later headed to meets veteran BJP leader Murli Manohar at his residence. #Watch | Indian #PMModi meets veteran leader #LKAdvani at the latter's residence in New Delhi. PM Modi won a third-term in the #LokSabhaElections2024 #ElectionsOnWION (Source: ANI) pic.twitter.com/DF43LTiQHD — WION (@WIONews) June 7, 2024 × Chirag Paswan elected as LJP (Ram Vilas) Parliamentary Party leader Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) chief Chirag Paswan has been elected as the LJP (Ram Vilas) Parliamentary Party leader after a meeting in Delhi. As per reports all five MPs of the party namely Veena Devi, Arun Bharti, Shambhavi Choudhary and Rajesh Verma along with LJP President Chirag Paswan were present in the meeting. Chirag Paswan dismissed rumours of demands by his party, and said, "LJP is completely dedicated to our leader Narendra Modi. There is no doubt about it. In the NDA meeting held the day before yesterday, LJP extended the support to the leadership of PM Modi without any conditions." "So, the party has no demands. I can say on behalf of the NDA that no party presented any demands that day. Everyone extended the support unconditionally. Today, NDA will probably submit the letter of support to PM Modi’s leadership to the President today," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Modi to take oath as prime minister of India on June 9

The leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) on Wednesday (Jun 5) formally elected Narendra Modi as the bloc's leader at the meeting.&nbsp;

NDA leaders have also passed a resolution underlining the alliance government's commitment to serving the poor, women, youth, farmers and deprived sections of society.&nbsp;

The ruling coalition won a majority in the Lok Sabha election, paving the way for a third term for Modi. A day after the mandate, senior leaders of the NDA deliberated on the details of government formation at a meeting.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rjds-tejashwi-yadav-reacts-to-his-viral-photos-with-former-ally-nitish-kumar-heres-what-he-said-729090">RJD's Tejashwi Yadav reacts to his viral photos with former ally Nitish Kumar. Here's what he said</a>&nbsp;

NDA won 293 seats in the 2024 Lok Sabha election, crossing 272-mark which was needed to form the government. The number turned out to be a major shock to the NDA bloc as it was expecting 400+ seats. The side not only failed to cross 300 but also suffered big losses such as Smriti Irani from Amethi and the unbelievable Ayodhya shocker.&nbsp;

BJP alone doesn't have a majority, making allies including, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Janata Dal (JD(U)) kingmakers for the government formation. TDP and JD(U)&nbsp;have won a combined 28 seats, which are essential for BJP's coalition to form government.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/naidu-to-exact-his-pound-of-flesh-as-his-tdp-puts-five-key-demands-before-nda-reports-729059">Naidu to exact his pound of flesh as TDP puts five key demands before NDA: Reports</a>&nbsp;

The leaders of both parties, Chandrababu Naidu and Nitish Kumar, were present at the meeting, and reportedly have extended support in writing, but the conundrum continues as the opposition INDIA alliance also held a meeting with speculations that they are planning to form a government.&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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Notably, source-based media reports said that Nitish wants to hurry the process of government formation and wants Modi to "act fast".&nbsp;

"Jaldi kijiye (act fast)," he reportedly told Modi during the NDA meet. "There should not be any delay in forming the government. We should do it as soon as possible," sources quoted Nitish Kumar as saying.&nbsp;

On being asked about being a part of the NDA, TDP chief Naidu said, "How can we contest elections if we are not a part of NDA? We fought this collectively. The meeting was good."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, NDA leaders will meet Indian President Droupadi Murmu on June 7 and stake claim to form a government under Modi's leadership, the news agency ANI reported citing sources.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) on Wednesday (Jun 5) formally elected Narendra Modi as the bloc's leader at the meeting.

The leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) on Wednesday (Jun 5) formally elected Narendra Modi as the bloc's leader at the meeting. NDA leaders have also passed a resolution underlining the alliance government's commitment to serving the poor, women, youth, farmers and deprived sections of society. The ruling coalition won a majority in the Lok Sabha election, paving the way for a third term for Modi. A day after the mandate, senior leaders of the NDA deliberated on the details of government formation at a meeting. Also read: RJD's Tejashwi Yadav reacts to his viral photos with former ally Nitish Kumar. Here's what he said NDA won 293 seats in the 2024 Lok Sabha election, crossing 272-mark which was needed to form the government. The number turned out to be a major shock to the NDA bloc as it was expecting 400+ seats. The side not only failed to cross 300 but also suffered big losses such as Smriti Irani from Amethi and the unbelievable Ayodhya shocker. BJP alone doesn't have a majority, making allies including, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Janata Dal (JD(U)) kingmakers for the government formation. TDP and JD(U) have won a combined 28 seats, which are essential for BJP's coalition to form government. Also read: Naidu to exact his pound of flesh as TDP puts five key demands before NDA: Reports The leaders of both parties, Chandrababu Naidu and Nitish Kumar, were present at the meeting, and reportedly have extended support in writing, but the conundrum continues as the opposition INDIA alliance also held a meeting with speculations that they are planning to form a government. Watch this report: × Notably, source-based media reports said that Nitish wants to hurry the process of government formation and wants Modi to "act fast". "Jaldi kijiye (act fast)," he reportedly told Modi during the NDA meet. "There should not be any delay in forming the government. We should do it as soon as possible," sources quoted Nitish Kumar as saying. On being asked about being a part of the NDA, TDP chief Naidu said, "How can we contest elections if we are not a part of NDA? We fought this collectively. The meeting was good." Meanwhile, NDA leaders will meet Indian President Droupadi Murmu on June 7 and stake claim to form a government under Modi's leadership, the news agency ANI reported citing sources. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Polls: Modi formally elected as alliance leader by all NDA partners

National Democratic Alliance partners are announcing seat-sharing for the upcoming General Elections.

India elections: Battle for Bihar's 40 Lok Sabha seats

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday (Feb 13), a day after leaving the Congress party, but his gaffe during the presser grabbed more headlines than what he said.&nbsp;

Chavan said in the afternoon "today around 12-12:30, I am going to start a new journey of my political career, I am going to join BJP" which came as a big setback to his former party ahead of the upcoming general elections in the country.&nbsp;

During the press conference, Chavan mistakenly addressed Mumbai BJP chief Ashish Shelar as Mumbai Congress chief, which led to laughter from Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis and others present there. Fadnavis then rectified the error.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-protest-kejriwal-government-declines-centres-appeal-to-turn-stadium-into-jail-689760">Farmers protest: Kejriwal government declines Centre's appeal to turn stadium into jail</a>

Watch the video here:&nbsp;&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Former Maharashtra CM Ashok Chavan joins the BJP at the party's office in Mumbai. He recently quit Congress. 
 
Former Congress MLC Amar Rajurkar also joined the BJP. <a href="https://t.co/2833wY76am">pic.twitter.com/2833wY76am</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1757311531455222012?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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After the error, Chavan acknowledged the mistake and said it happened because of his long-standing allegiance to the Congress party. The 65-year-old leader hails from Nanded district.&nbsp;

He remarked, "It's a slip of the tongue. This marks my inaugural day at the BJP headquarters, and I request you to excuse me."&nbsp;

Chavan, who served as the chief minister of Maharashtra twice earlier, quit the Congress on Monday, in a jolt to the grand old party ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-protest-kejriwal-government-declines-centres-appeal-to-turn-stadium-into-jail-689760">Farmers protest: Kejriwal government declines Centre's appeal to turn stadium into jail</a>&nbsp;

Chavan, who is the son of the former Maharashtra chief minister and union home minister SB Chavan, has spent nearly four decades in Congress. He said that today signifies the commencement of his fresh political journey.&nbsp;

The move to join BJP came amidst speculation that he might be given the Rajya Sabha nomination.&nbsp;

He also addressed the issue raised by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut regarding the Adarsh scam as he defended himself, stating, "The Bombay High Court's decision favoured me. I view it as a political mishap. Although certain agencies have contested the court's ruling, I have endured enough and consider it a non-issue now."&nbsp;

The former CM and Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray has also raked up the Adarsh housing scam to target Chavan and said on Monday that if the BJP sends him to the Rajya Sabha, it will amount to disrespecting martyred soldiers.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday (Feb 13), a day after leaving the Congress party, but his gaffe during the presser grabbed more headlines than what he said.

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday (Feb 13), a day after leaving the Congress party, but his gaffe during the presser grabbed more headlines than what he said. Chavan said in the afternoon "today around 12-12:30, I am going to start a new journey of my political career, I am going to join BJP" which came as a big setback to his former party ahead of the upcoming general elections in the country. During the press conference, Chavan mistakenly addressed Mumbai BJP chief Ashish Shelar as Mumbai Congress chief, which led to laughter from Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis and others present there. Fadnavis then rectified the error. Also read: Farmers protest: Kejriwal government declines Centre's appeal to turn stadium into jail Watch the video here: #WATCH | Former Maharashtra CM Ashok Chavan joins the BJP at the party's office in Mumbai. He recently quit Congress. Former Congress MLC Amar Rajurkar also joined the BJP. pic.twitter.com/2833wY76am — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2024 × After the error, Chavan acknowledged the mistake and said it happened because of his long-standing allegiance to the Congress party. The 65-year-old leader hails from Nanded district. He remarked, "It's a slip of the tongue. This marks my inaugural day at the BJP headquarters, and I request you to excuse me." Chavan, who served as the chief minister of Maharashtra twice earlier, quit the Congress on Monday, in a jolt to the grand old party ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. Also read: Farmers protest: Kejriwal government declines Centre's appeal to turn stadium into jail Chavan, who is the son of the former Maharashtra chief minister and union home minister SB Chavan, has spent nearly four decades in Congress. He said that today signifies the commencement of his fresh political journey. The move to join BJP came amidst speculation that he might be given the Rajya Sabha nomination. He also addressed the issue raised by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut regarding the Adarsh scam as he defended himself, stating, "The Bombay High Court's decision favoured me. I view it as a political mishap. Although certain agencies have contested the court's ruling, I have endured enough and consider it a non-issue now." The former CM and Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray has also raked up the Adarsh housing scam to target Chavan and said on Monday that if the BJP sends him to the Rajya Sabha, it will amount to disrespecting martyred soldiers. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: Maharashtra ex-CM Ashok Chavan’s slip of tongue after joining BJP; promptly corrected

In a major setback for I.N.D.I.A bloc, the&nbsp;Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) chief Jayant Chaudhary confirmed on Monday (Feb 12 that his party will contest the upcoming Indian General Election in alliance with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).&nbsp;

RLD is a regional political party based in the Indian states of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan and was part of the I.N.D.I.A bloc. The shift comes days after the Narendra Modi government announced the highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, for&nbsp;former prime minister of India, Charan Singh, the grandfather&nbsp;of RLD&nbsp;chief Jayant Chaudhary.

While speaking to the media after the move, Chaudhary said that the party has taken this "decision in a short period of time, considering the situation". He added that there had been no "big planning" behind the decision.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-former-maharashtra-cm-ashok-chavan-quits-congress-reports-suggest-may-join-bjp-party-reacts-689510">Former Maharashtra CM Ashok Chavan quits Congress, party reacts; reports suggest may join BJP</a>&nbsp;

RLD was founded by Ajit Singh, the son of former prime minister of India, Charan Singh in 1996. It was a breakaway faction of the Janata Dal. The decision was announced on the birth anniversary of the party's founder.&nbsp;

With this latest move, RLD has become the second party to walk out of the I.N.D.I.A alliance in the last one month after Nitish Kumar-led JD(U) in Bihar state.&nbsp;

Political experts have said that RLD's addition to NDA will boost NDA chances in the Lok Sabha elections in the western regions of Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had recently asserted in Parliament that his party will win 370 seats and the NDA will cross 400 in the polls to the 543-member House.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;More than 200 farmers' union announce March on Feb 13, police impose precautionary measures

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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bihar-cm-nitish-kumar-wins-trust-vote-in-a-major-setback-for-opposition-india-bloc-689530">Bihar CM Nitish Kumar wins trust vote in a major setback for opposition INDIA bloc</a>&nbsp;

<h2>TDP to join NDA again?&nbsp;</h2>

In another major development, reports have emerged that the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) might join NDA as the Indian politician Nara Chandrababu Naidu, who is the president of TDP, recently met Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP president JP Nadda.&nbsp;

After the meeting, speculations are rife that the political parties may join hands in Andhra Pradesh for the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly polls to be held simultaneously in the South Indian state.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a major setback for I.N.D.I.A bloc, the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) chief Jayant Chaudhary confirmed on Monday (Feb 12 that his party will contest the upcoming Indian General Election in alliance with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

In a major setback for I.N.D.I.A bloc, the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) chief Jayant Chaudhary confirmed on Monday (Feb 12 that his party will contest the upcoming Indian General Election in alliance with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). RLD is a regional political party based in the Indian states of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan and was part of the I.N.D.I.A bloc. The shift comes days after the Narendra Modi government announced the highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, for former prime minister of India, Charan Singh, the grandfather of RLD chief Jayant Chaudhary. While speaking to the media after the move, Chaudhary said that the party has taken this "decision in a short period of time, considering the situation". He added that there had been no "big planning" behind the decision. Also read: Former Maharashtra CM Ashok Chavan quits Congress, party reacts; reports suggest may join BJP RLD was founded by Ajit Singh, the son of former prime minister of India, Charan Singh in 1996. It was a breakaway faction of the Janata Dal. The decision was announced on the birth anniversary of the party's founder. With this latest move, RLD has become the second party to walk out of the I.N.D.I.A alliance in the last one month after Nitish Kumar-led JD(U) in Bihar state. Political experts have said that RLD's addition to NDA will boost NDA chances in the Lok Sabha elections in the western regions of Uttar Pradesh. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had recently asserted in Parliament that his party will win 370 seats and the NDA will cross 400 in the polls to the 543-member House. Watch: More than 200 farmers' union announce March on Feb 13, police impose precautionary measures × Also read: Bihar CM Nitish Kumar wins trust vote in a major setback for opposition INDIA bloc TDP to join NDA again? In another major development, reports have emerged that the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) might join NDA as the Indian politician Nara Chandrababu Naidu, who is the president of TDP, recently met Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP president JP Nadda. After the meeting, speculations are rife that the political parties may join hands in Andhra Pradesh for the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly polls to be held simultaneously in the South Indian state. (With inputs from agencies)

Rashtriya Lok Dal joins NDA ahead of general election in major setback to I.N.D.I.A bloc

Indian politician Nara Chandrababu Naidu, who is the president of Telugu Desam Party (TDP), met Home Minister Amit Shah and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president JP Nadda late Wednesday night.&nbsp;

After the meeting, speculations are rife that the political parties may join hands in Andhra Pradesh for the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly polls to&nbsp;be held simultaneously in the South Indian state.&nbsp;

The news agency PTI reported that Naidu met Shah at the home minister's residence, with sources saying that Nadda was also present in the meeting. BJP reportedly believes that an alliance with Naidu will help the NDA do well in the state.&nbsp;

Citing sources, the news agency said that Naidu is keen on joining forces with the BJP party. If this happens, then it will be a major boost for the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance in Andhra Pradesh and the upcoming general elections.

This comes after Janata Dal (United) president and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar joined NDA last month, snapping ties with the opposition.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-nirmala-sitharaman-presents-white-paper-on-indian-economy-in-lok-sabha-688314">Nirmala Sitharaman presents 'White paper' on Indian economy in Lok Sabha</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Lok Sabha Polls 2024</h2>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had recently asserted in Parliament that his party will get 370 seats and the NDA will cross 400 in the polls to the 543-member House.&nbsp;

While talking about TDP, a senior BJP leader said his party is open to an alliance but it will all depend on how many seats the TDP, the main opposition party in the state, agrees to give it, especially for the Lok Sabha polls.

Both had fought the 2014 Lok Sabha polls together when Telangana was yet to be formally separated from Andhra Pradesh. The BJP had then fought three seats and won all of them out of the 42 seats in the united state.&nbsp;

Following Telangana's creation, Andhra Pradesh has 25 seats and the BJP is keen to contest on anywhere between six to eight seats, sources said.

The TDP had walked out of the NDA in 2018 but suffered majorly in the 2019 polls when it managed to win only three Lok Sabha seats and lost power in the state to the YSR Congress.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;New Delhi hosts India-EU roundtable on countering terrorist exploitation of drones&nbsp;

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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bmw-seized-from-ex-jharkhand-cm-hemant-sorens-residence-not-his-say-reports-688243">BMW seized from ex-Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren's residence not his, say reports</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Rumours of RLD joining NDA&nbsp;</h2>

There are also speculations that Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) chief Jayant Chaudhary is joining hands with the BJP. However, there is no confirmation on it yet.

The&nbsp;Samajwadi Party (SP) an alliance partner of the&nbsp;RLD does not seem happy with the rumours.

The RLD and the SP announced their alliance for the Lok Sabha polls on January 19 with the former stating that the latter will leave seven seats in western Uttar Pradesh for its nominees.&nbsp;

Both the parties had contested the 2022 assembly elections in&nbsp;alliance as well in which the SP had won 111 seats while the RLD bagged eight seats. In the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, the RLD was part of the SP-BSP alliance.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Indian politician Nara Chandrababu Naidu, who is the president of Telugu Desam Party (TDP), met Home Minister Amit Shah and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president JP Nadda late Wednesday night.

Indian politician Nara Chandrababu Naidu, who is the president of Telugu Desam Party (TDP), met Home Minister Amit Shah and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president JP Nadda late Wednesday night. After the meeting, speculations are rife that the political parties may join hands in Andhra Pradesh for the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly polls to be held simultaneously in the South Indian state. The news agency PTI reported that Naidu met Shah at the home minister's residence, with sources saying that Nadda was also present in the meeting. BJP reportedly believes that an alliance with Naidu will help the NDA do well in the state. Citing sources, the news agency said that Naidu is keen on joining forces with the BJP party. If this happens, then it will be a major boost for the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance in Andhra Pradesh and the upcoming general elections. This comes after Janata Dal (United) president and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar joined NDA last month, snapping ties with the opposition. Also read: Nirmala Sitharaman presents 'White paper' on Indian economy in Lok Sabha Lok Sabha Polls 2024 Prime Minister Narendra Modi had recently asserted in Parliament that his party will get 370 seats and the NDA will cross 400 in the polls to the 543-member House. While talking about TDP, a senior BJP leader said his party is open to an alliance but it will all depend on how many seats the TDP, the main opposition party in the state, agrees to give it, especially for the Lok Sabha polls. Both had fought the 2014 Lok Sabha polls together when Telangana was yet to be formally separated from Andhra Pradesh. The BJP had then fought three seats and won all of them out of the 42 seats in the united state. Following Telangana's creation, Andhra Pradesh has 25 seats and the BJP is keen to contest on anywhere between six to eight seats, sources said. The TDP had walked out of the NDA in 2018 but suffered majorly in the 2019 polls when it managed to win only three Lok Sabha seats and lost power in the state to the YSR Congress. Watch: New Delhi hosts India-EU roundtable on countering terrorist exploitation of drones × Also read: BMW seized from ex-Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren's residence not his, say reports Rumours of RLD joining NDA There are also speculations that Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) chief Jayant Chaudhary is joining hands with the BJP. However, there is no confirmation on it yet. The Samajwadi Party (SP) an alliance partner of the RLD does not seem happy with the rumours. The RLD and the SP announced their alliance for the Lok Sabha polls on January 19 with the former stating that the latter will leave seven seats in western Uttar Pradesh for its nominees. Both the parties had contested the 2022 assembly elections in alliance as well in which the SP had won 111 seats while the RLD bagged eight seats. In the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, the RLD was part of the SP-BSP alliance. (With inputs from agencies)

TDP to join NDA again? Chandrababu Naidu meets Amit Shah, JP Nadda in New Delhi

Nitish Kumar took oath as the chief minister of Bihar for a record ninth time on Sunday (Jan 28), flipping from the opposition INDIA alliance to the Bharatiya Janata Party-led NDA (National Democratic Alliance). "Now I am back where I was before (in NDA) and now there is no question of going anywhere," the CM assured BJP supporters.&nbsp;

Nitish Kumar hails from the Janata Dal (United) (JDU) party and after his last flip-flop, his now erstwhile government was supported by the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). Both parties were a part of the INDIA alliance, largely led by the opposition Congress party.&nbsp;

Nitish Kumar earlier submitted his resignation to the Bihar governor and snapped ties with RJD. Then he again staked a claim for the CM seat with the support of BJP, the second-largest party in the Bihar assembly.

<h2>Bihar Assembly seat composition</h2>

The Bihar Assembly boasts 243 members in total, where the RJD holds the largest ground with 79 MLAs.

The BJP has 78 MLAs&nbsp;

The JD(U) has 45 MLAs

The CPI(M-L)(L) has 12 MLAs

The Congress has 19 MLAs

The HAM (S) has 4 MLAs

The AIMIM has 1 MLA

The CPI(M) has 2 MLAs

The CPI has 2 MLAs

There's one Independent MLA

A political party or alliance needs the support of at least 122 members (more than half) to form the government. The ruling&nbsp;Mahagathbandhan&nbsp;(literally translated as Great Alliance) had 159 MLAs in total, which JDU was a part of.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw0JnykUT7TBAuvxBX1hhk_e" data-ved="2ahUKEwihjYucoICEAxUla2wGHfaUByQQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bihars-nitish-kumar-ends-his-18-month-long-alliance-with-rjd-congress-to-join-bjp-684558" jsname="YKoRaf">Bihar's Nitish Kumar ends his 18-month-long alliance with RJD &amp; Congress to join BJP</a>

Since JDU has now joined hands with BJP, both of them have 123 MLAs in total, just one above the halfway mark. Moreover, the NDA is also backed by the Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM [S]), which has 4 MLAs. This puts the NDA government in Bihar in a comfortable position.

Watch:&nbsp;Nitish Kumar stakes claim to form a new government in Bihar with BJP

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On the other hand, the opposition&nbsp;Mahagathbandhan&nbsp;is left with just 114 MLAs, which is eight short of the halfway mark.&nbsp;

<h2>Nitish Kumar attacks&nbsp;Mahagathbandhan</h2>

After taking oath for the record ninth time, Nitish Kumar took on&nbsp;the&nbsp;Mahagathbandhan&nbsp;and said the alliance was “not alright” and became so messed up that he had to quit.&nbsp;

"I have not been commenting about anything for long now because things were not right (in the Mahagathbandhan). I was getting opinions and suggestions from everyone, including my party workers. I listened to all of them and resigned today, and ended the current government,” CM Kumar said to reporters.

(With inputs from agencies)

Nitish Kumar took oath as the chief minister of Bihar for a record ninth time on Sunday (Jan 28), flipping from the opposition INDIA alliance to the Bharatiya Janata Party-led NDA (National Democratic Alliance).

Nitish Kumar took oath as the chief minister of Bihar for a record ninth time on Sunday (Jan 28), flipping from the opposition INDIA alliance to the Bharatiya Janata Party-led NDA (National Democratic Alliance). "Now I am back where I was before (in NDA) and now there is no question of going anywhere," the CM assured BJP supporters. Nitish Kumar hails from the Janata Dal (United) (JDU) party and after his last flip-flop, his now erstwhile government was supported by the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). Both parties were a part of the INDIA alliance, largely led by the opposition Congress party. Nitish Kumar earlier submitted his resignation to the Bihar governor and snapped ties with RJD. Then he again staked a claim for the CM seat with the support of BJP, the second-largest party in the Bihar assembly. Bihar Assembly seat composition The Bihar Assembly boasts 243 members in total, where the RJD holds the largest ground with 79 MLAs. The BJP has 78 MLAs The JD(U) has 45 MLAs The CPI(M-L)(L) has 12 MLAs The Congress has 19 MLAs The HAM (S) has 4 MLAs The AIMIM has 1 MLA The CPI(M) has 2 MLAs The CPI has 2 MLAs There's one Independent MLA A political party or alliance needs the support of at least 122 members (more than half) to form the government. The ruling Mahagathbandhan (literally translated as Great Alliance) had 159 MLAs in total, which JDU was a part of. Also read: Bihar's Nitish Kumar ends his 18-month-long alliance with RJD & Congress to join BJP Since JDU has now joined hands with BJP, both of them have 123 MLAs in total, just one above the halfway mark. Moreover, the NDA is also backed by the Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM [S]), which has 4 MLAs. This puts the NDA government in Bihar in a comfortable position. Watch: Nitish Kumar stakes claim to form a new government in Bihar with BJP × On the other hand, the opposition Mahagathbandhan is left with just 114 MLAs, which is eight short of the halfway mark. Nitish Kumar attacks Mahagathbandhan After taking oath for the record ninth time, Nitish Kumar took on the Mahagathbandhan and said the alliance was “not alright” and became so messed up that he had to quit. "I have not been commenting about anything for long now because things were not right (in the Mahagathbandhan). I was getting opinions and suggestions from everyone, including my party workers. I listened to all of them and resigned today, and ended the current government,” CM Kumar said to reporters. (With inputs from agencies)

Bihar Assembly in numbers: NDA now backed by 127 MLAs as ‘Mahagathbandhan’ collapses

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that he was inspired by the motto of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas'&nbsp;and continues to work towards developing India.

Taking to Twitter to mark the six-month completion of the second term of NDA government, PM Modi wrote, "Inspired by the motto of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas'&nbsp;and with the blessings of 130 crore Indians, the NDA Government has continued working towards developing India and empowering the lives of 130 crore Indians with renewed vigour".

He also outlined the achievements of the last six months and added, "During the last six months, we have taken numerous decisions that have furthered development, accelerated social empowerment and enhanced India's unity. We aspire to do even more in the times to come, so that we create a prosperous and progressive New India".

Prime Minister Modi started his second tenure after his swearing-in as the 16th Prime Minister of India on May 30.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that he was inspired by the motto of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas' and continues to work towards developing India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that he was inspired by the motto of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas' and continues to work towards developing India. Taking to Twitter to mark the six-month completion of the second term of NDA government, PM Modi wrote, "Inspired by the motto of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas' and with the blessings of 130 crore Indians, the NDA Government has continued working towards developing India and empowering the lives of 130 crore Indians with renewed vigour". He also outlined the achievements of the last six months and added, "During the last six months, we have taken numerous decisions that have furthered development, accelerated social empowerment and enhanced India's unity. We aspire to do even more in the times to come, so that we create a prosperous and progressive New India". Prime Minister Modi started his second tenure after his swearing-in as the 16th Prime Minister of India on May 30.

NDA working towards developing India, empowering lives of 130 crore Indians: PM Modi

BJP MP Om Birla is likely to be NDA's nominee for Lok Sabha speaker's post, sources said on Tuesday.

Once nominated, Birla, who won from Kota-Bundi parliamentary seat in Rajasthan, will easily become the speaker as the National Democratic Alliance has a clear majority in the House. 
&nbsp; 
On being asked about the report of him being chosen for speaker post, Birla said, ''I have no information, I had just went to meet the Working President as a 'karyakarta'.''

Birla's wife Amita Birla said, ''It is a very proud and a happy moment for us. We are very thankful to the cabinet for choosing him.''

If necessary, the election for the post may be held on Wednesday.&nbsp;

BJP MP Om Birla is likely to be NDA's nominee for Lok Sabha speaker's post, sources said on Tuesday. Once nominated, Birla, who won from Kota-Bundi parliamentary seat in Rajasthan, will easily become the speaker as the National Democratic Alliance has a clear majority in the House.

BJP MP Om Birla is likely to be NDA's nominee for Lok Sabha speaker's post, sources said on Tuesday. Once nominated, Birla, who won from Kota-Bundi parliamentary seat in Rajasthan, will easily become the speaker as the National Democratic Alliance has a clear majority in the House. On being asked about the report of him being chosen for speaker post, Birla said, ''I have no information, I had just went to meet the Working President as a 'karyakarta'.'' Birla's wife Amita Birla said, ''It is a very proud and a happy moment for us. We are very thankful to the cabinet for choosing him.'' If necessary, the election for the post may be held on Wednesday.

Om Birla to be NDA's nominee for Lok Sabha speaker's post: Sources

BJP President Amit Shah will host a dinner for NDA allies tomorrow, ahead of results for the national election on Thursday. The dinner-cum-meet comes after exit polls predictions of a comfortable win for the NDA. Mr Shah will host the NDA leaders at Delhi's 'The Ashok' hotel, where the BJP chief is expected to discuss alliance's strategy with them.

BJP President Amit Shah hosts dinner for NDA allies ahead of LS polls results

Maharashtra BJP president Raosaheb Danve said the NDA would improve its 2014 tally in the state by winning 45 out of total 48 Lok Sabha seats.

The BJP and the Shiv Sena had jointly won 42 constituencies in 2014 elections.

"The BJP and the Shiv Sena had jointly won 42 seats in 2014 elections, but this time we will win 45 seats. Not a single seat we are going to lose which we had won in 2014," Danve said, adding that the Opposition parties would have to accept this fact.

He dismissed the exit poll prediction of the Sena facing any backlash in elections.

"Sena had won 18 seats in 2014 and was the biggest partner of BJP in the Centre. I do not think Sena will face any problem," he added.

The seven-phase elections to 542 seats of 543-member Lok Sabha ended Sunday. Counting of votes is scheduled for Thursday.

Most exit polls have forecast another term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with some of them projecting that the BJP-led NDA would get over 300 seats to comfortably cross the majority mark of 272 in the Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

Maharashtra BJP president Raosaheb Danve said the NDA would improve its 2014 tally in the state by winning 45 out of total 48 Lok Sabha seats. The BJP and the Shiv Sena had jointly won 42 constituencies in 2014 elections.

Maharashtra BJP president Raosaheb Danve said the NDA would improve its 2014 tally in the state by winning 45 out of total 48 Lok Sabha seats. The BJP and the Shiv Sena had jointly won 42 constituencies in 2014 elections. "The BJP and the Shiv Sena had jointly won 42 seats in 2014 elections, but this time we will win 45 seats. Not a single seat we are going to lose which we had won in 2014," Danve said, adding that the Opposition parties would have to accept this fact. He dismissed the exit poll prediction of the Sena facing any backlash in elections. "Sena had won 18 seats in 2014 and was the biggest partner of BJP in the Centre. I do not think Sena will face any problem," he added. The seven-phase elections to 542 seats of 543-member Lok Sabha ended Sunday. Counting of votes is scheduled for Thursday. Most exit polls have forecast another term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with some of them projecting that the BJP-led NDA would get over 300 seats to comfortably cross the majority mark of 272 in the Lok Sabha.

National Democratic Alliance will win 45 seats in Maharashtra, says state BJP chief

With exit polls forecasting NDA's return to power, top leaders of the BJP-led alliance will meet Today over dinner to be hosted by party president Amit Shah where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to be present, party sources said.

Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and Lok Janshakti Party head Ram Vilas Paswan are likely to attend the meeting, which will take place two days before the counting of votes for the Lok Sabha polls on May 23.

A meeting of key BJP leaders, including Union Ministers and Modi, is also scheduled to be held in the party headquarters before the dinner meeting with allies.

The BJP's decision to host the dinner comes following the exit polls which have been unanimous in projecting another term for Modi.

Modi and Shah at a press conference on May 17 had exuded confidence that the saffron party-led alliance will return to power, and exit polls have furthered boosted their hopes.

Exit polls telecast by almost all major news channels have forecast that the BJP-led NDA will cross the majority mark of 272 in the 543-member Lok Sabha.

Polls have been held for 542 seats as the Election Commission had deferred the election for Vellore seat due to allegations of the use of money to influence the voting.

Several BJP leaders asserted on Monday that the party will get a majority on its own, repeating the unprecedented feat it achieved in 2014 by winning 282 seats.

With exit polls forecasting NDA's return to power, top leaders of the BJP-led alliance will meet Today over dinner to be hosted by party president Amit Shah where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to be present, party sources said.

With exit polls forecasting NDA's return to power, top leaders of the BJP-led alliance will meet Today over dinner to be hosted by party president Amit Shah where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to be present, party sources said. Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and Lok Janshakti Party head Ram Vilas Paswan are likely to attend the meeting, which will take place two days before the counting of votes for the Lok Sabha polls on May 23. A meeting of key BJP leaders, including Union Ministers and Modi, is also scheduled to be held in the party headquarters before the dinner meeting with allies. The BJP's decision to host the dinner comes following the exit polls which have been unanimous in projecting another term for Modi. Modi and Shah at a press conference on May 17 had exuded confidence that the saffron party-led alliance will return to power, and exit polls have furthered boosted their hopes. Exit polls telecast by almost all major news channels have forecast that the BJP-led NDA will cross the majority mark of 272 in the 543-member Lok Sabha. Polls have been held for 542 seats as the Election Commission had deferred the election for Vellore seat due to allegations of the use of money to influence the voting. Several BJP leaders asserted on Monday that the party will get a majority on its own, repeating the unprecedented feat it achieved in 2014 by winning 282 seats.

National Democratic Alliance leaders to meet today to chalk out strategy on outcome of polls

NDA Meeting has been started at BJP Headquarters in New Delhi. Watch this video for more information.

NDA meeting underway at BJP Headquarters, News Delhi

Superstar Rajinikanth on Tuesday clarified his stance over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/national-security-is-bjps-sankalp-as-party-manifesto-vows-to-repeal-articles-370-35a-and-end-left-wing-extremism-208930">Bharatiya Janata Party's election manifesto</a> that was released yesterday.

Speaking to reporters outside his Chennai residence, Rajinikanth termed the mention of linking rivers in the manifesto as a "welcome move".

"In the manifesto that the BJP released yesterday they have said that they would link the country’s rivers and they would appoint a committee for the same, that is a welcome move. With God’s blessings and people’s support, (we don’t know what result they will give) if the NDA front forms a government at the central level, they should first link all the rivers in the country, " he said.

Rajini also added that, if that (river-linking) alone is done half the poverty in the country can be eradicated, crores of people can be employed, farmers lives and condition can be improved. "Hence, I request them to implement it".&nbsp;

He, however, ended on a cautious note, and said, “Please don’t mistake me, this a very sensitive time (election season), I don’t wish to speak anything further.”

Rajinikanth who was to leave for Mumbai, where his latest film ‘Darbar’ is to go on floors from tomorrow, further recollected that he had been a long time supporter of the project to link India’s rivers.&nbsp;

“It was the dream of our Late Prime Minister AB Vajpayee. When he was the prime minister I had met him once and discussed with him about the same. Since it was a big project I also requested him to name it Bhageeratha Yojana, which he liked very much and smiled. Bhageeratham means making the impossible possible, he said.

When asked about his political stance, Rajini said that it was as mentioned earlier and it remains unchanged.

In a statement issued in February this year, Rajini had mentioned that he or his party will not contest the Lok Sabha polls and that their party’s aim would be the Tamil Nadu Assembly Polls that are slated for 2021.&nbsp;

Responding to questions about him backing fellow veteran actor Kamal Hassan’s political party Makkal Needhi Maiam, Rajini said, “I don’t wish to speak anything about this anymore. Kindly don’t blow up this issue and spoil our friendship”.&nbsp;

While he ducked the question pertaining to Kamal Hassan’s party and his support for it, Rajini spoke at length about his admiration for the project to link India’s rivers.&nbsp;

But there seems to be a larger context to what Rajini has spoken. In the statement that he issued on February 17, he had mentioned that “Water shortage is the main issue that Tamil Nadu faces. Ahead of the upcoming polls I lovingly request you to analyse, think and vote for a decisive majority at the national level, which you think could solve the water woes of Tamil Nadu and introduce adequate schemes to bring a permanent solution.”

Despite Rajini not contesting in the upcoming polls, his words could certainly be of significance for millions of his fans who are to cast their vote.

Superstar Rajinikanth on Tuesday clarified his stance over Bharatiya Janata Party's election manifesto that was released yesterday. Speaking to reporters outside his Chennai residence, Rajinikanth termed the mention of linking rivers in the manifesto as a "welcome move".

Superstar Rajinikanth on Tuesday clarified his stance over Bharatiya Janata Party's election manifesto that was released yesterday. Speaking to reporters outside his Chennai residence, Rajinikanth termed the mention of linking rivers in the manifesto as a "welcome move". "In the manifesto that the BJP released yesterday they have said that they would link the country’s rivers and they would appoint a committee for the same, that is a welcome move. With God’s blessings and people’s support, (we don’t know what result they will give) if the NDA front forms a government at the central level, they should first link all the rivers in the country, " he said. Rajini also added that, if that (river-linking) alone is done half the poverty in the country can be eradicated, crores of people can be employed, farmers lives and condition can be improved. "Hence, I request them to implement it". He, however, ended on a cautious note, and said, “Please don’t mistake me, this a very sensitive time (election season), I don’t wish to speak anything further.” Rajinikanth who was to leave for Mumbai, where his latest film ‘Darbar’ is to go on floors from tomorrow, further recollected that he had been a long time supporter of the project to link India’s rivers. “It was the dream of our Late Prime Minister AB Vajpayee. When he was the prime minister I had met him once and discussed with him about the same. Since it was a big project I also requested him to name it Bhageeratha Yojana, which he liked very much and smiled. Bhageeratham means making the impossible possible, he said. When asked about his political stance, Rajini said that it was as mentioned earlier and it remains unchanged. In a statement issued in February this year, Rajini had mentioned that he or his party will not contest the Lok Sabha polls and that their party’s aim would be the Tamil Nadu Assembly Polls that are slated for 2021. Responding to questions about him backing fellow veteran actor Kamal Hassan’s political party Makkal Needhi Maiam, Rajini said, “I don’t wish to speak anything about this anymore. Kindly don’t blow up this issue and spoil our friendship”. While he ducked the question pertaining to Kamal Hassan’s party and his support for it, Rajini spoke at length about his admiration for the project to link India’s rivers. But there seems to be a larger context to what Rajini has spoken. In the statement that he issued on February 17, he had mentioned that “Water shortage is the main issue that Tamil Nadu faces. Ahead of the upcoming polls I lovingly request you to analyse, think and vote for a decisive majority at the national level, which you think could solve the water woes of Tamil Nadu and introduce adequate schemes to bring a permanent solution.” Despite Rajini not contesting in the upcoming polls, his words could certainly be of significance for millions of his fans who are to cast their vote.

If NDA wins they should first implement river-linking project: Rajinikanth

Lok Sabha polls: A closer look at the key constituents of the National Democratic Alliance

Three powerful women politicians, each from a very different section of Indian society, may pose a big threat to the chances of Prime Minister Narendra Modi winning a second term in a general election due by May.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, part of the Nehru-Gandhi dynasty that has ruled India for much of the time since its independence from the British in 1947, joined the struggle in January, when the opposition Congress party made her its face in the nation's most populous state, Uttar Pradesh.

Two other senior female politicians - the firebrand chief minister of West Bengal state, Mamata Banerjee, and Mayawati, a former Uttar Pradesh chief minister - are also plotting to unseat Modi's ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) coalition by forming big opposition groupings, though there is no firm agreement between them as yet.

"The opposition has more powerful women leaders than the NDA, and therefore they will be able to carry conviction with voters generally, and with women voters, in particular," said Yashwant Sinha, 81, a former finance minister who quit Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which dominates the NDA, last year.

"They should be very worried, especially after the defeat in the three major Hindi heartland states," he said, referring to BJP's losses in recent state elections.

The entry of Priyanka - she is usually referred to by just her first name - into the political fray drew a gushing reaction from much of the Indian media.

There were pictures of elated supporters dancing, a lot of talk of the 47-year-old's resemblance to her grandmother, former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, and comments about her gifts as a speaker able to connect with voters. That contrasts with her brother, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who in the past has been criticized for lacking the common touch.

Triple challenge

The other two women seen threatening Modi's grip on power have a lot more experience than Priyanka, and both could be seen as potential prime ministerial candidates in a coalition government.

Mayawati, a 63-year-old former teacher who goes by just the one name, last month formed an alliance between her Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) – which mainly represents&nbsp;the Dalits - and its once bitter foes, the Samajwadi Party that tends to draw support from other lower castes and Muslims.

Then there is 64-year-old Banerjee, who has twice been railways minister in federal governments. Last month, Banerjee – who built her All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) party after leaving Congress in 1997 - organised an anti-BJP rally in Kolkata that attracted hundreds of thousands.

Party colleagues of the three women leaders said they were not available for comment.

To be sure, Modi remains, for now, the most popular leader in the country, opinion polls show.

Modi also cannot be accused of ignoring women's issues during his first term. He has launched a government campaign - Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, or "Save the Daughter, Educate the Daughter" - and called for the eradication of female foeticide. His campaigns to provide toilets and subsidised gas cylinders for poorer Indians are often promoted as ways to empower women.

He has six women in his 26-strong cabinet, though a lot of power is centralised with Modi and a couple of senior male lieutenants.

The BJP said it would seek votes on the basis of achievements under Modi and the opposition did not have a "positive alternative to the government and its activities".

Personal Ties

Congress has said it wants to form a post-poll partnership with Mayawati's BSP and SP alliance, though it will be fighting against it in 78 seats. The alliance will not contest two Gandhi strongholds won multiple times by Rahul and his mother Sonia.

Mayawati told a press conference announcing the alliance with the SP that Congress was not part of it because they did not think "there would be much benefit in having them with us before the election".

The BSP, however, backs Congress-led governments in the northern states of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

There is no formal alliance between Banerjee and Congress, though she does know Rahul and Priyanka.

Dinesh Trivedi, a former federal minister and a close aide to Banerjee, said she enjoys a good personal relationship with Sonia Gandhi, the matriarch of the dynasty and a former Congress president, and so working with her two children would not be a problem.

"In terms of experience, Mamata Banerjee is far ahead," Trivedi said. "I wouldn't be surprised if Rahul Gandhi or Priyanka Gandhi would look at Mamata Banerjee as somebody who could really inspire them."

The strength of Priyanka, Mayawati and Banerjee as a potential opposition alliance is that they can appeal to different parts of the electorate.

Two Congress sources said the formal entry into politics of Priyanka could help rejuvenate the party in Uttar Pradesh, where it is a marginal player.

Coming from what is India's first family, they said she could appeal to upper caste voters in the state who typically vote for the pro-business BJP.

A Congress leader close to the Gandhis said she would attract women, young people, and floating voters.

Priyanka is far from a political neophyte, having supported her brother and mother during previous election campaigns. She has also experienced political and personal tragedy, as Rahul Gandhi stressed in a speech last week.

"You have to understand my relationship with my sister – we have been through a hell of a lot together," he said.

"Everybody is like 'look, you come from this illustrious family, and everything is easy'. Actually, it's not so easy. My father was assassinated, my grandmother was assassinated, huge political battles, wins in political battles, losses in political battles."

'National leader'

BSP spokesman Sudhindra Bhadoria said Mayawati's gender did not matter.

"She has managed a party from scratch to this level. The important fact is that she has organised large numbers, both men and women, Dalits, other backward castes, the poor, minorities," Bhadoria said. "I don't fit them in the straightjacket of male-female. I think she's a national leader."

She is regarded as ambitious. A US&nbsp;diplomatic cable in 2008, among many thousands leaked by Wikileaks two years later, described her as "first-rate egomaniac" who "is obsessed with becoming prime minister".

But Mayawati has also been credited with empowering oppressed lower caste Hindus.

Banerjee, who defeated a 34-year-old communist government in West Bengal in an election in 2011, is known for her streetwise political skills and portrays herself as a secular leader in a country polarised under the BJP.

Three powerful women politicians, each from a very different section of Indian society, may pose a big threat to the chances of Prime Minister Narendra Modi winning a second term in a general election due by May.

Three powerful women politicians, each from a very different section of Indian society, may pose a big threat to the chances of Prime Minister Narendra Modi winning a second term in a general election due by May. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, part of the Nehru-Gandhi dynasty that has ruled India for much of the time since its independence from the British in 1947, joined the struggle in January, when the opposition Congress party made her its face in the nation's most populous state, Uttar Pradesh. Two other senior female politicians - the firebrand chief minister of West Bengal state, Mamata Banerjee, and Mayawati, a former Uttar Pradesh chief minister - are also plotting to unseat Modi's ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) coalition by forming big opposition groupings, though there is no firm agreement between them as yet. "The opposition has more powerful women leaders than the NDA, and therefore they will be able to carry conviction with voters generally, and with women voters, in particular," said Yashwant Sinha, 81, a former finance minister who quit Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which dominates the NDA, last year. "They should be very worried, especially after the defeat in the three major Hindi heartland states," he said, referring to BJP's losses in recent state elections. The entry of Priyanka - she is usually referred to by just her first name - into the political fray drew a gushing reaction from much of the Indian media. There were pictures of elated supporters dancing, a lot of talk of the 47-year-old's resemblance to her grandmother, former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, and comments about her gifts as a speaker able to connect with voters. That contrasts with her brother, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who in the past has been criticized for lacking the common touch. Triple challenge The other two women seen threatening Modi's grip on power have a lot more experience than Priyanka, and both could be seen as potential prime ministerial candidates in a coalition government. Mayawati, a 63-year-old former teacher who goes by just the one name, last month formed an alliance between her Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) – which mainly represents the Dalits - and its once bitter foes, the Samajwadi Party that tends to draw support from other lower castes and Muslims. Then there is 64-year-old Banerjee, who has twice been railways minister in federal governments. Last month, Banerjee – who built her All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) party after leaving Congress in 1997 - organised an anti-BJP rally in Kolkata that attracted hundreds of thousands. Party colleagues of the three women leaders said they were not available for comment. To be sure, Modi remains, for now, the most popular leader in the country, opinion polls show. Modi also cannot be accused of ignoring women's issues during his first term. He has launched a government campaign - Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, or "Save the Daughter, Educate the Daughter" - and called for the eradication of female foeticide. His campaigns to provide toilets and subsidised gas cylinders for poorer Indians are often promoted as ways to empower women. He has six women in his 26-strong cabinet, though a lot of power is centralised with Modi and a couple of senior male lieutenants. The BJP said it would seek votes on the basis of achievements under Modi and the opposition did not have a "positive alternative to the government and its activities". Personal Ties Congress has said it wants to form a post-poll partnership with Mayawati's BSP and SP alliance, though it will be fighting against it in 78 seats. The alliance will not contest two Gandhi strongholds won multiple times by Rahul and his mother Sonia. Mayawati told a press conference announcing the alliance with the SP that Congress was not part of it because they did not think "there would be much benefit in having them with us before the election". The BSP, however, backs Congress-led governments in the northern states of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. There is no formal alliance between Banerjee and Congress, though she does know Rahul and Priyanka. Dinesh Trivedi, a former federal minister and a close aide to Banerjee, said she enjoys a good personal relationship with Sonia Gandhi, the matriarch of the dynasty and a former Congress president, and so working with her two children would not be a problem. "In terms of experience, Mamata Banerjee is far ahead," Trivedi said. "I wouldn't be surprised if Rahul Gandhi or Priyanka Gandhi would look at Mamata Banerjee as somebody who could really inspire them." The strength of Priyanka, Mayawati and Banerjee as a potential opposition alliance is that they can appeal to different parts of the electorate. Two Congress sources said the formal entry into politics of Priyanka could help rejuvenate the party in Uttar Pradesh, where it is a marginal player. Coming from what is India's first family, they said she could appeal to upper caste voters in the state who typically vote for the pro-business BJP. A Congress leader close to the Gandhis said she would attract women, young people, and floating voters. Priyanka is far from a political neophyte, having supported her brother and mother during previous election campaigns. She has also experienced political and personal tragedy, as Rahul Gandhi stressed in a speech last week. "You have to understand my relationship with my sister – we have been through a hell of a lot together," he said. "Everybody is like 'look, you come from this illustrious family, and everything is easy'. Actually, it's not so easy. My father was assassinated, my grandmother was assassinated, huge political battles, wins in political battles, losses in political battles." 'National leader' BSP spokesman Sudhindra Bhadoria said Mayawati's gender did not matter. "She has managed a party from scratch to this level. The important fact is that she has organised large numbers, both men and women, Dalits, other backward castes, the poor, minorities," Bhadoria said. "I don't fit them in the straightjacket of male-female. I think she's a national leader." She is regarded as ambitious. A US diplomatic cable in 2008, among many thousands leaked by Wikileaks two years later, described her as "first-rate egomaniac" who "is obsessed with becoming prime minister". But Mayawati has also been credited with empowering oppressed lower caste Hindus. Banerjee, who defeated a 34-year-old communist government in West Bengal in an election in 2011, is known for her streetwise political skills and portrays herself as a secular leader in a country polarised under the BJP.

Three women who could be Modi's biggest nightmare in upcoming general election

Union minister and Rashtriya Lok Samta Party chief Upendra Kushwaha has dismissed speculation he would exit the ruling NDA, asserting his party stands committed to the alliance and is working to ensure a second five-year term for Narendra Modi as prime minister.

Kushwaha emphasized his party will take forward its "Halla Bol, Darwaza Khol" campaign with full determination to ensure representation of every section of society in higher judiciary.

In an interview to PTI-Bhasha, he said, "The NDA alliance is moving forward strongly, we are and we will remain committed to making it even stronger."

Asked about his remark that milk from Yadavs and rice from Kushwahas can help prepare delicious "kheer" (rice pudding), the minister of state for human resource development said, "The remark was taken out of context. The message was for society, this was not a political comment".

He said if every section of society contributes some ingredients to prepare kheer, it will help cement the social fabric and the country will together move ahead.

He said if a Yaduvanshi contributes milk, a Brahmin sends sugar, a person from the backward community gives dry fruits, Tulsi leaves come from the home of a Dalit person, the kheer prepared by this method and savoured on a dastarkhan of a Muslim brother will make the country stronger.

"And this is also the intent of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas," Kushwaha said, referring to Prime Minister Modi's slogan about collective effort for inclusive growth. 
The Rashtriya Lok Samta Party chief said his previous kheer remark had no political context but people are free to speculate.

Asked about the indication by Tejaswi Yadav and other RJD leaders that he will join the Mahagathbandhan in Bihar, Kushwaha said, "They will be disappointed".

On seat-sharing arrangement with the BJP, he said talks are on and all discussions will happen on the right forum.

He said his party's objective is to ensure all-round development, education for all and protecting the interests of the Scheduled Castes, the Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes.

For social justice, Kushwaha stressed, the biggest issue was ensuring representation of every section of society in higher judiciary which is difficult to achieve through the existing collegium system.

The collegium system of appointing judges is undemocratic and his party has launched the "Halla Bol, Darwaza Khol" campaign to open the doors of higher judiciary to common people, he said.

In the coming days, he said, his party will take the campaign forward strongly.

The Union minister from Bihar also raised questions on the law and order situation in the state and said he was not the only one worried, but Chief Minister Nitish Kumar too has expressed concern on the matter during a meeting with senior police officers.

The situation is not satisfactory and this cannot be denied, Kushwaha said.

Union minister and Rashtriya Lok Samta Party chief Upendra Kushwaha has dismissed speculation he would exit the ruling NDA, asserting his party stands committed to the alliance and is working to ensure a second five-year term for Narendra Modi as prime minister.

Union minister and Rashtriya Lok Samta Party chief Upendra Kushwaha has dismissed speculation he would exit the ruling NDA, asserting his party stands committed to the alliance and is working to ensure a second five-year term for Narendra Modi as prime minister. Kushwaha emphasized his party will take forward its "Halla Bol, Darwaza Khol" campaign with full determination to ensure representation of every section of society in higher judiciary. In an interview to PTI-Bhasha, he said, "The NDA alliance is moving forward strongly, we are and we will remain committed to making it even stronger." Asked about his remark that milk from Yadavs and rice from Kushwahas can help prepare delicious "kheer" (rice pudding), the minister of state for human resource development said, "The remark was taken out of context. The message was for society, this was not a political comment". He said if every section of society contributes some ingredients to prepare kheer, it will help cement the social fabric and the country will together move ahead. He said if a Yaduvanshi contributes milk, a Brahmin sends sugar, a person from the backward community gives dry fruits, Tulsi leaves come from the home of a Dalit person, the kheer prepared by this method and savoured on a dastarkhan of a Muslim brother will make the country stronger. "And this is also the intent of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas," Kushwaha said, referring to Prime Minister Modi's slogan about collective effort for inclusive growth. The Rashtriya Lok Samta Party chief said his previous kheer remark had no political context but people are free to speculate. Asked about the indication by Tejaswi Yadav and other RJD leaders that he will join the Mahagathbandhan in Bihar, Kushwaha said, "They will be disappointed". On seat-sharing arrangement with the BJP, he said talks are on and all discussions will happen on the right forum. He said his party's objective is to ensure all-round development, education for all and protecting the interests of the Scheduled Castes, the Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes. For social justice, Kushwaha stressed, the biggest issue was ensuring representation of every section of society in higher judiciary which is difficult to achieve through the existing collegium system. The collegium system of appointing judges is undemocratic and his party has launched the "Halla Bol, Darwaza Khol" campaign to open the doors of higher judiciary to common people, he said. In the coming days, he said, his party will take the campaign forward strongly. The Union minister from Bihar also raised questions on the law and order situation in the state and said he was not the only one worried, but Chief Minister Nitish Kumar too has expressed concern on the matter during a meeting with senior police officers. The situation is not satisfactory and this cannot be denied, Kushwaha said.

RLSP stands with NDA, committed to make Modi PM again: Upendra Kushwaha

The JD(U) core committee met&nbspahead of a meeting of the National Democratic Alliance scheduled later this week, after which a senior party leader said Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is the face of the NDA in Bihar. 
Kumar, also the JD(U) national president, held the core committee meeting at his residence.

JD(U) national general secretaries K C Tyagi and Pavan Varma, who arrived from New Delhi, poll strategist Prashant Kishor and a few other state leaders took part in the meeting.

The meeting assumes significance as the BJP-led NDA, which the JD(U) joined in August last year, is scheduled to hold a meeting in Bihar on June 7. During the NDA meeting, to be attended by Kumar, the coalition partners are likely to discuss their strategy in the state for the next Lok Sabha polls.

Emerging out of the chief minister's residence after the meeting, Varma told reporters that Kumar "is the face of the NDA in Bihar, that is why he is the chief minister. JD(U) is the largest constituent of the coalition".

Varma's remark assumes significance amidst speculation in political circles here that the JD(U), which has only two Lok Sabha members, might press for a seat-sharing arrangement commensurate with its strength in the Bihar assembly where it has about 70 MLAs against nearly 50 of the BJP.

Besides the JD(U) and the BJP, the NDA in Bihar comprises Ram Vilas Paswan's Lok Janshakti Party and Upendra Kushwaha's Rashtriya Lok Samata Party.

The BJP had bagged 22 out of the 40 Lok Sabha seats in the state in 2014, when the JD(U) had fought separately.

However, in the wake of the poor show by the BJP in a number of bypolls recently, its allies have started voicing the need for better coordination within the NDA instead of a "big brotherly attitude" displayed by the senior coalition partner.

Asked about Kumar's renewed demand for special status to Bihar, Varma said "the party had never given up the demand. To fight for this legitimate right of the state is the JD(U)'s commitment".

He, however, declined to divulge the details of the consultations held with Kumar.

JD(U) national general secretaries K C Tyagi and Pavan Varma, who arrived from New Delhi, poll strategist Prashant Kishor and a few other state leaders took part in the meeting

The JD(U) core committee met&nbspahead of a meeting of the National Democratic Alliance scheduled later this week, after which a senior party leader said Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is the face of the NDA in Bihar. Kumar, also the JD(U) national president, held the core committee meeting at his residence. JD(U) national general secretaries K C Tyagi and Pavan Varma, who arrived from New Delhi, poll strategist Prashant Kishor and a few other state leaders took part in the meeting. The meeting assumes significance as the BJP-led NDA, which the JD(U) joined in August last year, is scheduled to hold a meeting in Bihar on June 7. During the NDA meeting, to be attended by Kumar, the coalition partners are likely to discuss their strategy in the state for the next Lok Sabha polls. Emerging out of the chief minister's residence after the meeting, Varma told reporters that Kumar "is the face of the NDA in Bihar, that is why he is the chief minister. JD(U) is the largest constituent of the coalition". Varma's remark assumes significance amidst speculation in political circles here that the JD(U), which has only two Lok Sabha members, might press for a seat-sharing arrangement commensurate with its strength in the Bihar assembly where it has about 70 MLAs against nearly 50 of the BJP. Besides the JD(U) and the BJP, the NDA in Bihar comprises Ram Vilas Paswan's Lok Janshakti Party and Upendra Kushwaha's Rashtriya Lok Samata Party. The BJP had bagged 22 out of the 40 Lok Sabha seats in the state in 2014, when the JD(U) had fought separately. However, in the wake of the poor show by the BJP in a number of bypolls recently, its allies have started voicing the need for better coordination within the NDA instead of a "big brotherly attitude" displayed by the senior coalition partner. Asked about Kumar's renewed demand for special status to Bihar, Varma said "the party had never given up the demand. To fight for this legitimate right of the state is the JD(U)'s commitment". He, however, declined to divulge the details of the consultations held with Kumar.

Nitish face of NDA in Bihar, says JD(U) leader after core committee meeting

Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu will sit on a day-long hunger strike on April 20 for the&nbsp;demand of Special status for their state.

The hunger strike will be organised against the Central government.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/snap-ties-with-tdp-if-required-andhra-pradesh-bjp-to-central-leadership-33432">conflict between the BJP and the Telugu Desam Party (TDP </a>) began after the centre&nbsp;failed to fulfil Karnataka's demand of special status.

The row between the two parties also led to the exit of TDP from NDA, the BJP led alliance.

Also, two TDP ministers Ashok Gajapathi and YS Chowdary resigned from the Modi cabinet.

Besides the resignation of the two TDP ministers from Modi cabinet, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/5-ysrcp-mps-to-submit-their-resignation-from-lok-sabha-to-speaker-sumitra-mahajan-today--128691">five YSRCP MPs also submitted their resignations </a>to Lok Sabha speaker Sumitra Mahajan on April 6.

The special status to Andhra Pradesh would give the state a central funding in a 90:10 ratio, with the Centre paying the larger share.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AndhraPradesh?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AndhraPradesh</a> Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu to sit on a day long hunger strike on 20th April against Central Government over demand of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpecialStatus?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpecialStatus</a> for the state (File pic) <a href="https://t.co/fjKWOuYMbX">pic.twitter.com/fjKWOuYMbX</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/985088641105047552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The hunger strike will be organised against the Central government for the demand of special status to Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu will sit on a day-long hunger strike on April 20 for the demand of Special status for their state. The hunger strike will be organised against the Central government. The conflict between the BJP and the Telugu Desam Party (TDP ) began after the centre failed to fulfil Karnataka's demand of special status. The row between the two parties also led to the exit of TDP from NDA, the BJP led alliance. Also, two TDP ministers Ashok Gajapathi and YS Chowdary resigned from the Modi cabinet. Besides the resignation of the two TDP ministers from Modi cabinet, five YSRCP MPs also submitted their resignations to Lok Sabha speaker Sumitra Mahajan on April 6. The special status to Andhra Pradesh would give the state a central funding in a 90:10 ratio, with the Centre paying the larger share. #AndhraPradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu to sit on a day long hunger strike on 20th April against Central Government over demand of #SpecialStatus for the state (File pic) pic.twitter.com/fjKWOuYMbX — ANI (@ANI) April 14, 2018 ×

Now, Chandrababu Naidu to sit on day-long fast on April 20

Addressing the Karnataka assembly on Friday Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu said his decision to quit the NDA was for the interest of the state.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrababu-naidu-led-tdp-pulls-out-of-nda-35990" target="_blank">Chandrababu Naidu-led TDP pulls out of NDA, supports &#39;no-confidence&#39; motion in Lok Sabha</a>

He added that he withdrew the support of his ministers from the party because the last budget of the NDA&nbsp;did not have anything for Karnataka.

He said,&nbsp;&quot;We&#39;ve quit NDA. I took the decision, not for selfish reasons, but for interests of Andhra Pradesh. For 4-years I made all efforts, went to Delhi 29 times, asked many times. This was centre&#39;s last budget and there was no mention of Andhra Pradesh, we had to pull our ministers out of cabinet&quot;.

He said that the government did not fulfil the &quot;bifurcation promises&quot;.

He said &quot;Bifurcation promises are not yet fulfilled. Had special status been included in the Act in the Lok Sabha then, this situation would not have arisen&quot;.

Accusing Union Minister Arun Jaitley of doing injustice with the state he said &quot;Sentiment is very powerful and Telangana was also carved out for sentiment&quot;.

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Arun Jaitley said, sentiment cannot increase quantum of funds. What a reckless statement. Telangana was carved for sentiment. Sentiment is very powerful. Even now you are doing injustice: AP CM N Chandrababu Naidu in Assembly <a href="https://t.co/yNqNzit2YS">pic.twitter.com/yNqNzit2YS</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/974570333700227072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He said his party has survived many crises and will survive this too. He added that he had written many letters to the centre, but nothing materialised.

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TDP has survived many crises and we can sail through this situation. I wrote many letters to the Centre. Recently also I gave a letter to PM but nothing materialised: Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu in Assembly
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/974572247439593472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He added that he withdrew the support of his ministers from the party because the last budget of the NDA did not have anything for Karnataka

Addressing the Karnataka assembly on Friday Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu said his decision to quit the NDA was for the interest of the state. Also read: Chandrababu Naidu-led TDP pulls out of NDA, supports 'no-confidence' motion in Lok Sabha He added that he withdrew the support of his ministers from the party because the last budget of the NDA did not have anything for Karnataka. He said, "We've quit NDA. I took the decision, not for selfish reasons, but for interests of Andhra Pradesh. For 4-years I made all efforts, went to Delhi 29 times, asked many times. This was centre's last budget and there was no mention of Andhra Pradesh, we had to pull our ministers out of cabinet". He said that the government did not fulfil the "bifurcation promises". He said "Bifurcation promises are not yet fulfilled. Had special status been included in the Act in the Lok Sabha then, this situation would not have arisen". Accusing Union Minister Arun Jaitley of doing injustice with the state he said "Sentiment is very powerful and Telangana was also carved out for sentiment". Arun Jaitley said, sentiment cannot increase quantum of funds. What a reckless statement. Telangana was carved for sentiment. Sentiment is very powerful. Even now you are doing injustice: AP CM N Chandrababu Naidu in Assembly pic.twitter.com/yNqNzit2YS — ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2018 × He said his party has survived many crises and will survive this too. He added that he had written many letters to the centre, but nothing materialised. TDP has survived many crises and we can sail through this situation. I wrote many letters to the Centre. Recently also I gave a letter to PM but nothing materialised: Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu in Assembly — ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2018 ×

Decision to quit NDA is for interest of Karnataka: Chandrababu Naidu

Responding to the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrababu-naidu-led-tdp-pulls-out-of-nda-35990" target="_blank">exit of Telugu Desam Party (TDP) from NDA coalition</a>, BJP leader Narasimha Rao has said that the Chandrababu Naidu led TDP was seeing a defeat for themselves in 2019 and they were using this as an excuse to&nbsp;retrieve lost political ground.

He further asked why CM Naidu took four years to realise that the coalition with NDA was not working.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-lok-sabha-no-confidence-motion-against-nda-congress-to-support-ysr-tdp-35999" target="_blank">Live Lok Sabha &#39;no-confidence&#39; motion against NDA: Congress to support YSR, TDP</a>

He said &quot;We believe TDP is finding the going tough in Andhra Pradesh, they are seeing a defeat for themselves in 2019 and they want to use this as an alibi to really retrieve lost political ground.Questions being asked in Andhra Pradesh as to why AP CM took 4 yrs to realise that this is not working&quot;.

He further said &quot;The state govt and TDP are feeling the pinch of the public opinion going against them and BJP will use this as an opportunity to grow as a political party and emerge as a dominant political force in Andhra Pradesh. For us, it will prove to be the next Tripura&quot;.

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We believe TDP is finding the going tough in AP, they are seeing a defeat for themselves in 2019&amp;they want to use this as an alibi to really retrieve lost political ground.Ques being asked in AP as to why AP CM took 4 yrs to realise that this is not working: GVL Narasimha Rao,BJP <a href="https://t.co/KijVUvxPpV">pic.twitter.com/KijVUvxPpV</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/974526562652467200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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While KC Tyagi from BJP&#39;s another coalition partner JDU has said that there was no danger to the NDA government from the break up of TDP alliance.&nbsp;

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In a big alliance, small difference of opinions happen. There is no danger to NDA government. But, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TDP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TDP</a> withdrawing from NDA is unfortunate: KC Tyagi, JDU <a href="https://t.co/83C8XDRS5I">pic.twitter.com/83C8XDRS5I</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/974535275937349632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Andhra Pradesh chief minister&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrababu-naidu-led-tdp-pulls-out-of-nda-35990">Chandrababu Naidu-led TDP exited</a>&nbsp;the NDA coalition government at the Centre over its refusal to grant &quot;special status&quot;&nbsp;to Andhra Pradesh on Friday.&nbsp;

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The Chandrababu Naidu led TDP was seeing a defeat for themselves in 2019 and they were using this as an excuse to retrieve lost political ground

Responding to the exit of Telugu Desam Party (TDP) from NDA coalition, BJP leader Narasimha Rao has said that the Chandrababu Naidu led TDP was seeing a defeat for themselves in 2019 and they were using this as an excuse to retrieve lost political ground. He further asked why CM Naidu took four years to realise that the coalition with NDA was not working. Also read: Live Lok Sabha 'no-confidence' motion against NDA: Congress to support YSR, TDP He said "We believe TDP is finding the going tough in Andhra Pradesh, they are seeing a defeat for themselves in 2019 and they want to use this as an alibi to really retrieve lost political ground.Questions being asked in Andhra Pradesh as to why AP CM took 4 yrs to realise that this is not working". He further said "The state govt and TDP are feeling the pinch of the public opinion going against them and BJP will use this as an opportunity to grow as a political party and emerge as a dominant political force in Andhra Pradesh. For us, it will prove to be the next Tripura". We believe TDP is finding the going tough in AP, they are seeing a defeat for themselves in 2019&they want to use this as an alibi to really retrieve lost political ground.Ques being asked in AP as to why AP CM took 4 yrs to realise that this is not working: GVL Narasimha Rao,BJP pic.twitter.com/KijVUvxPpV — ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2018 × While KC Tyagi from BJP's another coalition partner JDU has said that there was no danger to the NDA government from the break up of TDP alliance. In a big alliance, small difference of opinions happen. There is no danger to NDA government. But, #TDP withdrawing from NDA is unfortunate: KC Tyagi, JDU pic.twitter.com/83C8XDRS5I — ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2018 × Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu-led TDP exited the NDA coalition government at the Centre over its refusal to grant "special status" to Andhra Pradesh on Friday.

TDP's excuse to retrieve lost political ground in Andhra Pradesh: BJP leader Narasimha Rao on breakup from NDA

All Indian villages will be electrified by May 2017, India&#39;s Union minister Piyush Goyal said.&nbsp;

He also announced disbursal of soft loans to states for providing electricity to every household.

If the government provides electricity to all villages by May 2017, it will attain its goals a year before the 1,000-day deadline initially set by the Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) dispensation.

&quot;The states would get soft loans to achieve 100 per cent target of household electrification,&quot; he said during a conference in India&#39;s western state of Gujarat.

(WION with inputs from PTI)

The minister said they want to complete the electrification project a year ahead of the original deadline

All Indian villages will be electrified by May 2017, India's Union minister Piyush Goyal said. He also announced disbursal of soft loans to states for providing electricity to every household. If the government provides electricity to all villages by May 2017, it will attain its goals a year before the 1,000-day deadline initially set by the Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) dispensation. "The states would get soft loans to achieve 100 per cent target of household electrification," he said during a conference in India's western state of Gujarat. (WION with inputs from PTI)

All villages to be electrified by 2017, says Indian minister

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