Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared the stage with TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu during a public meeting in Palnadu, Andhra Pradesh. Watch in for more details!

India Elections 2024: NDA partners share the stage after 10 years in Andhra Pradesh

India, the world’s largest democracy is set to hold its general elections, with around 970 million registered voters heading to the polls to choose who will lead the country for the next five years.&nbsp;

In the upcoming election, the incumbent Prime Minister Narendra Modi from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with his National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has sought a third consecutive term in office.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, 26 opposition parties in the country, last year, formed an alliance called the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) to stop the PM Modi-led NDA from winning in the upcoming elections.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;India: PM Modi addresses rally in Telangana, pushes big in South Indian states

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Currently, there are two main alliances – NDA and INDIA – which include several parties.&nbsp;

<h2>NDA alliance</h2>

The BJP-led NDA is an alliance of right-wing conservative parties in India formed in 1998 to keep Congress out of power. The NDA alliance won in 1999 under the leadership of former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee and has been in power since 2014 with PM Modi at the helm.&nbsp;

Prominent parties in the NDA alliance include the National People’s Party (NPP), Shiv Sena, Janata Dal (United), Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD), Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Janata Dal (Secular) and Rashtriya Lok Janshakti Party (RLJP).&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-all-you-need-to-know-about-top-20-candidates-of-mega-polls-700743">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: All you need to know about top 20 candidates of mega polls</a>

The prime ministerial candidate of the alliance in the upcoming election is the incumbent PM Narendra Modi who has claimed that the NDA will win more than 400 seats in the lower house of parliament (Lok Sabha).&nbsp;

<h2>INDIA Bloc</h2>

In 2023, 26 opposition parties in the country came together to form the INDIA bloc. Currently, the alliance is being led by Mallikarjun Kharge who is also the president of the Congress party since 2022 and has been the leader of the opposition in the upper house of the parliament (Rajya Sabha), since the year before that.&nbsp;

Prominent parties in the INDIA alliance include All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), Aam Aadmi Party, Samajwadi Party, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), Communist Party of India (Marxist), and Rashtriya Janata Dal.&nbsp;

While the incumbent PM has claimed that their alliance will win more than 400 seats, the INDIA alliance is yet to choose their prime ministerial candidate with many politicians in the bloc vying for the role.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-2024-date-announced-check-full-schedule-voting-and-result-of-india-general-elections-700677">Lok Sabha Election 2024: Voting from April 11 in seven phases: Check full schedule here</a>

Speaking about the uncertainty, the alliance’s PM candidate, senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, last week downplaying the issue said party ideology and campaigning are more important.&nbsp;

“In our country, elections are not beauty contests. In our country, competition is held between the parties, its ideology, its symbol, its campaigning,” Ramesh told news agency ANI.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

India, the world’s largest democracy is set to hold its general elections, with around 970 million registered voters heading to the polls to choose who will lead the country for the next five years.

India, the world’s largest democracy is set to hold its general elections, with around 970 million registered voters heading to the polls to choose who will lead the country for the next five years. In the upcoming election, the incumbent Prime Minister Narendra Modi from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with his National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has sought a third consecutive term in office. Meanwhile, 26 opposition parties in the country, last year, formed an alliance called the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) to stop the PM Modi-led NDA from winning in the upcoming elections. WATCH | India: PM Modi addresses rally in Telangana, pushes big in South Indian states Currently, there are two main alliances – NDA and INDIA – which include several parties. NDA alliance The BJP-led NDA is an alliance of right-wing conservative parties in India formed in 1998 to keep Congress out of power. The NDA alliance won in 1999 under the leadership of former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee and has been in power since 2014 with PM Modi at the helm. Prominent parties in the NDA alliance include the National People’s Party (NPP), Shiv Sena, Janata Dal (United), Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD), Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Janata Dal (Secular) and Rashtriya Lok Janshakti Party (RLJP). Also Read | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: All you need to know about top 20 candidates of mega polls The prime ministerial candidate of the alliance in the upcoming election is the incumbent PM Narendra Modi who has claimed that the NDA will win more than 400 seats in the lower house of parliament (Lok Sabha). INDIA Bloc In 2023, 26 opposition parties in the country came together to form the INDIA bloc. Currently, the alliance is being led by Mallikarjun Kharge who is also the president of the Congress party since 2022 and has been the leader of the opposition in the upper house of the parliament (Rajya Sabha), since the year before that. Prominent parties in the INDIA alliance include All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), Aam Aadmi Party, Samajwadi Party, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), Communist Party of India (Marxist), and Rashtriya Janata Dal. While the incumbent PM has claimed that their alliance will win more than 400 seats, the INDIA alliance is yet to choose their prime ministerial candidate with many politicians in the bloc vying for the role. Also Read | Lok Sabha Election 2024: Voting from April 11 in seven phases: Check full schedule here Speaking about the uncertainty, the alliance’s PM candidate, senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, last week downplaying the issue said party ideology and campaigning are more important. “In our country, elections are not beauty contests. In our country, competition is held between the parties, its ideology, its symbol, its campaigning,” Ramesh told news agency ANI. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: List of parties competing in the upcoming polls

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is likely to contest one seat more than its alliance partner, the Janata Dal (United) — 17 and 16 Lok Sabha seats respectively, as part of the seat-sharing formula worked out by the partners of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Bihar.

India Elections 2024: BJP takes the lead in Bihar seat-sharing deal with 17 seats

Allies old and new are gravitating towards the Bharatiya Janata Party boosting the ruling party's bid to meet its target in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls a new National Democratic Alliance is taking shape.

Indian elections 2024: Allies, old and new gravitate towards BJP

Odisha's ruling Biju Janata Dal, led by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, has hinted at rekindling ties with the BJP for the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls and the assembly elections, 15 years after quitting the NDA.

India Elections 2024: 'Popular' Patnaik to return to NDA fold?

A few weeks after returning to the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) camp, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is set to face the floor test in the state Assembly today (Monday). This is the final hurdle for the renewed Nitish Kumar-BJP alliance government in the state. The trust vote will kick off the budget session of the state assembly.

Nitish Kumar-led new Bihar government to face floor test today

Ahead of the concurrent Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh, Telugu Desam Party chairman N Chandrababu Naidu landed in New Delhi on Wednesday, amid much speculation that his party would rejoin the NDA.

Chandrababu Naidu in Delhi amid talk of TDP-BJP tie-up | Will TDP join NDA?

What are the political ramifications of the ongoing troubles within the India alliance? Vikram Chandra speaks with senior political analysts, Neerja Chowdhury and Yashwant Deshmukh, founder and director, CVoter.

Election Countdown: Neerja Chowdhury & Yashwant Deshmukh on NDA vs Oppn bloc

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's party&nbsp;Janata Dal (United)&nbsp;on Friday (Jan 26), shunned&nbsp;rumours of&nbsp;return to BJP-led NDA stating&nbsp;that the party was "firmly with the I.N.D.I.A coalition".&nbsp;

However, the state JD(U) president Umesh Singh Kushwaha in his statement said that the party wanted the Congress to introspect regarding alliance partners and the sharing of seats.

"All is well in Bihar's ruling Mahagathbandhan and the media speculations are driven by some agenda," Kushwaha told reporters.

He also said, "I met the CM yesterday as well as today. It is a routine affair. There is no truth in the rumours doing the rounds. We also reject the rumours that party MLAs have been asked to rush to Patna".

He then said that Kumar and his deputy Tejashwi Yadav were " firmly with INDIA coalition".

Kushwaha, however, urged the Congress to do some introspection and said, "We want the Congress, which is our alliance partner, to do some introspection with regard to its stance towards other constituents and sharing of seats. Our leader Nitish Kumar has for long been stressing on the need for early finalisation of seat-sharing deal so that we could concentrate on Lok Sabha polls".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trouble-in-india-paradise-bihar-cm-nitish-kumar-may-return-to-bjp-led-nda-fold-sources-683841">Trouble in INDIA paradise? Bihar CM Nitish Kumar may return to BJP-led NDA fold: Reports</a>

<h2>Kushwaha calls reports of Kumar going back to NDA rumours</h2>

On being asked about the party's return to the NDA, the JD(U) leader said, "These are rumours spread by those with some agenda".

"Nitish Kumar is our leader in Bihar. I have no idea from where rumours of his going back to NDA have emanated," he further said.

During a press briefing, Kushwaha was also asked about Rohini Acharya's social media posts, who is the daughter of RJD - coalition partner -&nbsp;chief Lalu Prasad, where she supposedly took a jibe at Kumar.

The JD(U) leader replied, "We take no notice of that because Rohini Acharya is not an RJD office-bearer". 
Meanwhile, when asked about the delay in seat-sharing in the opposition bloc INDIA, state Congress president Akhilesh Prasad Singh asked, "why nobody asks about the BJP-led NDA? They, too are yet to sort out sharing of seats with allies".

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's party Janata Dal (United) on Friday (Jan 26), shunned rumours of return to BJP-led NDA stating that the party was "firmly with the I.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's party Janata Dal (United) on Friday (Jan 26), shunned rumours of return to BJP-led NDA stating that the party was "firmly with the I.N.D.I.A coalition". However, the state JD(U) president Umesh Singh Kushwaha in his statement said that the party wanted the Congress to introspect regarding alliance partners and the sharing of seats. "All is well in Bihar's ruling Mahagathbandhan and the media speculations are driven by some agenda," Kushwaha told reporters. He also said, "I met the CM yesterday as well as today. It is a routine affair. There is no truth in the rumours doing the rounds. We also reject the rumours that party MLAs have been asked to rush to Patna". He then said that Kumar and his deputy Tejashwi Yadav were " firmly with INDIA coalition". Kushwaha, however, urged the Congress to do some introspection and said, "We want the Congress, which is our alliance partner, to do some introspection with regard to its stance towards other constituents and sharing of seats. Our leader Nitish Kumar has for long been stressing on the need for early finalisation of seat-sharing deal so that we could concentrate on Lok Sabha polls". Also read: Trouble in INDIA paradise? Bihar CM Nitish Kumar may return to BJP-led NDA fold: Reports Kushwaha calls reports of Kumar going back to NDA rumours On being asked about the party's return to the NDA, the JD(U) leader said, "These are rumours spread by those with some agenda". "Nitish Kumar is our leader in Bihar. I have no idea from where rumours of his going back to NDA have emanated," he further said. During a press briefing, Kushwaha was also asked about Rohini Acharya's social media posts, who is the daughter of RJD - coalition partner - chief Lalu Prasad, where she supposedly took a jibe at Kumar. The JD(U) leader replied, "We take no notice of that because Rohini Acharya is not an RJD office-bearer". Meanwhile, when asked about the delay in seat-sharing in the opposition bloc INDIA, state Congress president Akhilesh Prasad Singh asked, "why nobody asks about the BJP-led NDA? They, too are yet to sort out sharing of seats with allies". (With inputs from agencies)

India: Nitish Kumar's JD (U) says 'firmly with INDIA bloc, want Congress to do introspection'

Janata Dal-United&nbsp;leader Nitish Kumar took oath as chief minister of the east Indian state of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28) for the record ninth time at Raj Bhawan in Patna after cutting ties with the combined opposition's INDIA alliance.

Samrat Chaudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, both from Bharatiya Janata Part (BJP), took the oath as deputy chief ministers.

After days of speculation, Kumar resigned as the chief minister of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28). The resignation came within 18 months of the JD(U) leader ditching the BJP and going with RJD.&nbsp;

Hours later, he took the oath as Bihar CM for the ninth time and formed a new state government with BJP's support.

<h2>‘We will stay together,’&nbsp;says Kumar in his first response after taking oath</h2>

The Bihar chief minister, after taking the oath, affirmed, "We are going to stay together now."

"I was with them (NDA) earlier too. We went on different paths, but now we are together and will remain so. Today, eight people have taken oath as ministers, the rest will take oath soon. Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha have been appointed as Deputy Chief Ministers," Nitish Kumar told reporters on Sunday.

On being asked about RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav's statement where he claimed that JDU will be finished in 2024, Kumar said that his party would work for the development and progress of the state.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-politics-who-are-samrat-choudhary-and-vijay-sinha-the-two-deputy-chief-ministers-in-new-government-684594">Bihar politics: Who are Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha? The two deputy chief ministers in new government</a>

"We work for the development and progress of Bihar. We will keep doing the same, nothing else. Tejashwi was not doing anything. Now I came back to where I was (NDA) and now there is no question of going anywhere else,"&nbsp;he added.

<h2>Nitish Kumar has ‘murdered’ hopes of Bihar by switching sides: Tejashwi Yadav</h2>

In his first reaction to ally Nitish Kumar's exit from 'INDIA' alliance, the outgoing deputy CM of the state Tejashwi Yadav accused Kumar of 'murdering' the hopes of the people by switching sides.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, son of party patriarch Lalu Yadav, told ANI: "Why should we not take credit for the work we have done?... The CM who used to say that it is impossible to give jobs, we gave jobs and showed that it is possible. We brought new policies in tourism, IT, and sports. The work that was done in 17 months could not be done in 17 years (of BJP-JDU rule). We did historic work in the 17 months."

He also hinted at more political developments in the state ahead of the General Elections in 2024 and said that 'the game is yet to begin'.

Describing Nitish Kumar as a 'tired CM', Yadav said, "What I say, I do...I can give you in writing that the JDU party will be finished in 2024. The public is with us..."

"I want to thank the BJP that it got ready to induct his party (JDU) in their alliance," he added.

<h2>'The situation was not good': Nitish Kumar on breaking ties with RJD</h2>

"I have resigned as the CM today and have asked the Governor to put an end to this government. Party leaders were giving me advice. I heard what they said and have resigned. The situation was not good. So, we have broken ties," Nitish Kumar told reporters outside the Raj Bhavan.

Nitish Kumar has managed to retain his chief ministerial designation despite frequent flip-flops.

(With inputs from agencies)

Janata Dal-United leader Nitish Kumar took oath as chief minister of the east Indian state of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28) for the record ninth time at Raj Bhawan in Patna after cutting ties with the combined opposition's INDIA alliance.

Janata Dal-United leader Nitish Kumar took oath as chief minister of the east Indian state of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28) for the record ninth time at Raj Bhawan in Patna after cutting ties with the combined opposition's INDIA alliance. Samrat Chaudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, both from Bharatiya Janata Part (BJP), took the oath as deputy chief ministers. After days of speculation, Kumar resigned as the chief minister of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28). The resignation came within 18 months of the JD(U) leader ditching the BJP and going with RJD. Hours later, he took the oath as Bihar CM for the ninth time and formed a new state government with BJP's support. ‘We will stay together,’ says Kumar in his first response after taking oath The Bihar chief minister, after taking the oath, affirmed, "We are going to stay together now." "I was with them (NDA) earlier too. We went on different paths, but now we are together and will remain so. Today, eight people have taken oath as ministers, the rest will take oath soon. Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha have been appointed as Deputy Chief Ministers," Nitish Kumar told reporters on Sunday. On being asked about RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav's statement where he claimed that JDU will be finished in 2024, Kumar said that his party would work for the development and progress of the state. Also read: Bihar politics: Who are Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha? The two deputy chief ministers in new government "We work for the development and progress of Bihar. We will keep doing the same, nothing else. Tejashwi was not doing anything. Now I came back to where I was (NDA) and now there is no question of going anywhere else," he added. Nitish Kumar has ‘murdered’ hopes of Bihar by switching sides: Tejashwi Yadav In his first reaction to ally Nitish Kumar's exit from 'INDIA' alliance, the outgoing deputy CM of the state Tejashwi Yadav accused Kumar of 'murdering' the hopes of the people by switching sides. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, son of party patriarch Lalu Yadav, told ANI: "Why should we not take credit for the work we have done?... The CM who used to say that it is impossible to give jobs, we gave jobs and showed that it is possible. We brought new policies in tourism, IT, and sports. The work that was done in 17 months could not be done in 17 years (of BJP-JDU rule). We did historic work in the 17 months." He also hinted at more political developments in the state ahead of the General Elections in 2024 and said that 'the game is yet to begin'. Describing Nitish Kumar as a 'tired CM', Yadav said, "What I say, I do...I can give you in writing that the JDU party will be finished in 2024. The public is with us..." "I want to thank the BJP that it got ready to induct his party (JDU) in their alliance," he added. 'The situation was not good': Nitish Kumar on breaking ties with RJD "I have resigned as the CM today and have asked the Governor to put an end to this government. Party leaders were giving me advice. I heard what they said and have resigned. The situation was not good. So, we have broken ties," Nitish Kumar told reporters outside the Raj Bhavan. Nitish Kumar has managed to retain his chief ministerial designation despite frequent flip-flops. (With inputs from agencies)

Bihar politics: Nitish Kumar takes oath as chief minister, with 2 deputy CMs from BJP

Description: 9-time chief minister of Bihar, Nitish Kumar has returned to an alliance with the bjp-led nda. The JDU's decision to walk out of the I.N.D.I.A. Bloc has created fresh trouble for the opposition alliance just ahead of general elections.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar back in NDA fold, what's next for 'India' 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.&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

Samajwadi Party head Akhilesh Yadav on Saturday (Jan 27) claimed that his alliance with the grand old party Congress had commenced on a very "good start" with 11 Lok Sabha seats in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Yadav took to his official X account and wrote, "Our cordial alliance with the Congress is off to a good start with 11 strong seats. This trend will move forward with the winning equation. 'INDIA' team and 'PDA' strategy will change history."

The state sends 80 members to the Lower House of Parliament and the Lok Sabha elections are set to take place in April-May this year.

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कांग्रेस के साथ 11 मज़बूत सीटों से हमारे सौहार्दपूर्ण गठबंधन की अच्छी शुरुआत हो रही है… ये सिलसिला जीत के समीकरण के साथ और भी आगे बढ़ेगा। 
 
‘इंडिया’ की टीम और ‘पीडीए’ की रणनीति इतिहास बदल देगी।
— Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/yadavakhilesh/status/1751150323379708043?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Earlier in January, Yadav held a meeting with party leaders including former MPs, former MLAs, and former MLCs in Lucknow. He stated that the capacity to win was the most crucial criterion that would be taken into consideration for deciding on seats.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-set-to-lose-nitish-kumar-bihar-cm-likely-to-switch-side-to-bjp-very-soon-684199">'INDIA' set to lose Nitish Kumar? Bihar CM to join hands with BJP very soon, say reports</a>

"We and RLD's Jayant Choudhary had a good conversation. We had a discussion regarding seven seats. We are also in conversation with the Congress. Several meetings have taken place in Delhi. Very soon, more meetings will be held, and a way will be found. The INDIA alliance should be strong; the question is not of (number of) seats but of winning. On the basis of winnability, we all will take a decision together," he said.

The Samajwadi Party chief's announcement also comes amid speculations of Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar's return to the BJP-led NDA.

Kumar had joined forces with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), founded by his staunch foe, Lalu Prasad in August 2022, after he cut ties with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The longest-serving CM of Bihar subsequently brought together all parties across the country with an aim to take on the BJP which further led to the formation of the opposition bloc INDIA.

(With inputs from agencies)

Samajwadi Party head Akhilesh Yadav on Saturday (Jan 27) claimed that his alliance with the grand old party Congress had commenced on a very "good start" with 11 Lok Sabha seats in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.

Samajwadi Party head Akhilesh Yadav on Saturday (Jan 27) claimed that his alliance with the grand old party Congress had commenced on a very "good start" with 11 Lok Sabha seats in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Yadav took to his official X account and wrote, "Our cordial alliance with the Congress is off to a good start with 11 strong seats. This trend will move forward with the winning equation. 'INDIA' team and 'PDA' strategy will change history." The state sends 80 members to the Lower House of Parliament and the Lok Sabha elections are set to take place in April-May this year. कांग्रेस के साथ 11 मज़बूत सीटों से हमारे सौहार्दपूर्ण गठबंधन की अच्छी शुरुआत हो रही है… ये सिलसिला जीत के समीकरण के साथ और भी आगे बढ़ेगा। ‘इंडिया’ की टीम और ‘पीडीए’ की रणनीति इतिहास बदल देगी। — Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) January 27, 2024 × Earlier in January, Yadav held a meeting with party leaders including former MPs, former MLAs, and former MLCs in Lucknow. He stated that the capacity to win was the most crucial criterion that would be taken into consideration for deciding on seats. Also read: 'INDIA' set to lose Nitish Kumar? Bihar CM to join hands with BJP very soon, say reports "We and RLD's Jayant Choudhary had a good conversation. We had a discussion regarding seven seats. We are also in conversation with the Congress. Several meetings have taken place in Delhi. Very soon, more meetings will be held, and a way will be found. The INDIA alliance should be strong; the question is not of (number of) seats but of winning. On the basis of winnability, we all will take a decision together," he said. The Samajwadi Party chief's announcement also comes amid speculations of Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar's return to the BJP-led NDA. Kumar had joined forces with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), founded by his staunch foe, Lalu Prasad in August 2022, after he cut ties with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The longest-serving CM of Bihar subsequently brought together all parties across the country with an aim to take on the BJP which further led to the formation of the opposition bloc INDIA. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Akhilesh Yadav says poll alliance with Congress ‘off to a good start’

Reacting to Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee's action of mimicking Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, the MPs of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies staged a unique protest in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday (Dec 20) to express solidarity with the leader.

India's Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said that NDA members will stand for an hour in the House to express support to Vice-President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Dhankhar.

"We strongly condemn this. They are crossing all limits. They are repeatedly insulting people on constitutional posts. They have been insulting the Prime Minister for 20 years because he comes from a humble background and the OBC community. They insulted the President because she is a tribal woman. You are a farmer's son. For the first time, someone from the Jat community became Vice-President. They have insulted this post. We are making it clear, we will not tolerate the insult of the Vice-President and the Constitution," said Joshi.&nbsp;

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"...I don't care about how much you insult Jagdeep Dhankhar. But I can't tolerate (insult of) Vice President of India, farmers community, my community... I will not tolerate that I could not protect the dignity of my post, it is my duty to protect the dignity of this House..,"… <a href="https://t.co/vLxUAtw6VG">pic.twitter.com/vLxUAtw6VG</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1737380979650748926?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"So, in your honour and to protest against them, we will stand and participate in the question and answer session," he said.

Meanwhile, Vice-President Dhankhar said that he doesn't care if insults are directed towards him as an individual, but added that he will not tolerate the insult of vice-president's office. Without taking the name of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, he raised questions on the values of those who were filming the act and trying to amplify the mimicry of Trinamool Congress Kalyan Banerjee in Parliament premises.&nbsp;

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/20-years-and-counting-pm-modi-expresses-anguish-over-mocking-of-vice-president-dhankhar-671593">&nbsp;'20 years and counting': PM Modi expresses anguish over mocking of Vice President Dhankhar</a>

Speaking to Congress MP Digvijaya Singh in Rajya Sabha, Dhankhar asked why the top brass of Congress is in "silence" over the incident. "You say your party is 138 years old. Your silence is ringing in my ears. (Congress chief Mallikarjun) Kharge ji's silence is ringing in my ears. Everyone knows what is happening," Dhankhar said.

"A person derives fun (from the mimicry) by videographing it, amplifying it. These are the manners? The level is so low now?" the vice president added.

The Rajya Sabha chairman further said that he doesn't care if he is getting insulted. "But the office of the Vice-President, the farmers' community, my community... I will sacrifice... I tolerate if someone insults me. Khoon ke ghoont peeta hoon (I suffer grief silently), but I will not tolerate if I feel that I could not protect the decorum of this position," he said.&nbsp;

<h2>Mimicry is an art in which PM also indulged, says Trinamool MP</h2>

Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee meanwhile said that "mimicry is an art" in an effort to defend his parody of Vice President Dhankhar, and added that he has high respect for the leader.

Banerjee was caught mimicking Dhankhar while Rahul Gandhi was seen making his video.&nbsp;

Speaking about his act, he said that he had no intentions of hurting anyone and added that he greatly respects Dhankhar. "I had no intention to hurt anyone. Mimicry is an art. Have high respect for him&nbsp;(Jagdeep) Dhankhar," said Banerjee.

Watch:&nbsp;Parliament suspension row: Opposition MP mimicked Vice President inside Parliament premises

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"I have not said it was Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha...a mock parliament was going on. If he has taken this to his shoulder, I am really helpless. Does he really behave like this in the Rajya Sabha?" he questioned.

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If the country was wondering why Opposition MPs were suspended, here is the reason… 
 
TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee mocked the Honourable Vice President, while Rahul Gandhi lustily cheered him on. One can imagine how reckless and violative they have been of the House! <a href="https://t.co/5o6VTTyF9C">pic.twitter.com/5o6VTTyF9C</a>
— BJP (@BJP4India) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India/status/1737016579286827092?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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He further said that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also indulged in mimicry in the Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

"I have great respect for Dhankhar ji. But, I did not want to hurt anyone...and it's one type of art. Mimicry was done also by the Prime Minister in Lok Sabha itself during the last term. I can show you a video. But no one took it seriously," said Banerjee.

(With inputs from agencies)

Reacting to Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee's action of mimicking Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, the MPs of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies staged a unique protest in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday (Dec 20) to express solidarity with the leader.

Reacting to Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee's action of mimicking Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, the MPs of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies staged a unique protest in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday (Dec 20) to express solidarity with the leader. India's Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said that NDA members will stand for an hour in the House to express support to Vice-President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Dhankhar. "We strongly condemn this. They are crossing all limits. They are repeatedly insulting people on constitutional posts. They have been insulting the Prime Minister for 20 years because he comes from a humble background and the OBC community. They insulted the President because she is a tribal woman. You are a farmer's son. For the first time, someone from the Jat community became Vice-President. They have insulted this post. We are making it clear, we will not tolerate the insult of the Vice-President and the Constitution," said Joshi. "...I don't care about how much you insult Jagdeep Dhankhar. But I can't tolerate (insult of) Vice President of India, farmers community, my community... I will not tolerate that I could not protect the dignity of my post, it is my duty to protect the dignity of this House..,"… pic.twitter.com/vLxUAtw6VG — ANI (@ANI) December 20, 2023 × "So, in your honour and to protest against them, we will stand and participate in the question and answer session," he said. Meanwhile, Vice-President Dhankhar said that he doesn't care if insults are directed towards him as an individual, but added that he will not tolerate the insult of vice-president's office. Without taking the name of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, he raised questions on the values of those who were filming the act and trying to amplify the mimicry of Trinamool Congress Kalyan Banerjee in Parliament premises. Also read: '20 years and counting': PM Modi expresses anguish over mocking of Vice President Dhankhar Speaking to Congress MP Digvijaya Singh in Rajya Sabha, Dhankhar asked why the top brass of Congress is in "silence" over the incident. "You say your party is 138 years old. Your silence is ringing in my ears. (Congress chief Mallikarjun) Kharge ji's silence is ringing in my ears. Everyone knows what is happening," Dhankhar said. "A person derives fun (from the mimicry) by videographing it, amplifying it. These are the manners? The level is so low now?" the vice president added. The Rajya Sabha chairman further said that he doesn't care if he is getting insulted. "But the office of the Vice-President, the farmers' community, my community... I will sacrifice... I tolerate if someone insults me. Khoon ke ghoont peeta hoon (I suffer grief silently), but I will not tolerate if I feel that I could not protect the decorum of this position," he said. Mimicry is an art in which PM also indulged, says Trinamool MP Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee meanwhile said that "mimicry is an art" in an effort to defend his parody of Vice President Dhankhar, and added that he has high respect for the leader. Banerjee was caught mimicking Dhankhar while Rahul Gandhi was seen making his video. Speaking about his act, he said that he had no intentions of hurting anyone and added that he greatly respects Dhankhar. "I had no intention to hurt anyone. Mimicry is an art. Have high respect for him (Jagdeep) Dhankhar," said Banerjee. Watch: Parliament suspension row: Opposition MP mimicked Vice President inside Parliament premises "I have not said it was Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha...a mock parliament was going on. If he has taken this to his shoulder, I am really helpless. Does he really behave like this in the Rajya Sabha?" he questioned. If the country was wondering why Opposition MPs were suspended, here is the reason… TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee mocked the Honourable Vice President, while Rahul Gandhi lustily cheered him on. One can imagine how reckless and violative they have been of the House! pic.twitter.com/5o6VTTyF9C — BJP (@BJP4India) December 19, 2023 × He further said that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also indulged in mimicry in the Lok Sabha. "I have great respect for Dhankhar ji. But, I did not want to hurt anyone...and it's one type of art. Mimicry was done also by the Prime Minister in Lok Sabha itself during the last term. I can show you a video. But no one took it seriously," said Banerjee. (With inputs from agencies)

MPs stand in solidarity with India’s vice-president as Dhankhar says ‘won’t tolerate’ insult of office

Ahead of 2024 India's general elections, one of the parties in the ruling alliance has severed ties with it.

All India Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) from the southern state of Tamilnadu on Monday (September 25) exited the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

This was to protest against state BJP leader's attacks and defamatory statements on AIADMK and their leaders, particularly by its chief Annamalai.

AIADMK Deputy General Secretary KP Munusamy announced the decision after a resolution was passed&nbsp;unanimously at a meeting of MPs, MLAs and district heads at the party's headquarters in Chennai.&nbsp;

“The state leadership of the BJP has been continuously making unnecessary remarks on our former leaders, our general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami and our cadres for the past one year. In today’s meeting, this resolution was passed unanimously,” said the party.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-alliances-agenda-is-to-end-countrys-sanatan-culture-says-pm-modi-635957">Also read |&nbsp;'INDIA alliance's agenda is to end country's ‘Sanatan’ culture', says PM Modi</a>

<h2>What did Annamalai say?</h2>

At a BJP protest event earlier this month, Annamalai had said that&nbsp;late chief minister CN Annadurai insulted Hinduism at an event in Madurai in 1956.

AIADMK was founded by former Tamil Nadu chief minister MG Ramachandran based on the principles popularised by CN Annadurai.

In Annamalai's telling,&nbsp;in June 1956 in the Meenakshi temple in Madurai, a child sang a song from the Sangam era for Annadurai.

The Dravidian leader praised the child for singing well but then said had she shown her talent centuries ago,&nbsp;a story would have been spun of how she was only able to sing divinely because she consumed the holy milk provided by Goddess Umaiyaval.

After Annamalai's remarks, AIADMK leaders said the BJP leader had "deliberately insulted" the Dravidian stalwart.

"The Dravidian movement has given life to us all. Anna gave everyone opportunities and equal rights to women and gave the name Tamil Nadu to this state,"&nbsp;AIADMK MP CV Shanmugam had said at the time.&nbsp;

"You (Annamalai) are not eligible to speak about Anna. Even after being in alliance, Annamalai is speaking ill of Perarignar Anna. Earlier, he critiqued Amma (Jayalalithaa) and now Anna."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-opposition-parties-form-india-alliance-for-2024-election-618261">Watch |&nbsp;Indian opposition parties form ‘INDIA’ alliance for 2024 election</a>

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Annamalai dodged media questions on AIADMK going its separate way.

Despite aligning with the BJP, AIADMK has had a horror showing&nbsp;in the past elections.

It lost overwhelmingly in the 2019 Lok Sabha election where it&nbsp;only garnered one seat. Later in the state elections of 2021, it fell to 75 seats from 135 seats five years ago.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Ahead of 2024 India's general elections, one of the parties in the ruling alliance has severed ties with it. All India Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) from the southern state of Tamilnadu on Monday (September 25) exited the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

Ahead of 2024 India's general elections, one of the parties in the ruling alliance has severed ties with it. All India Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) from the southern state of Tamilnadu on Monday (September 25) exited the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). This was to protest against state BJP leader's attacks and defamatory statements on AIADMK and their leaders, particularly by its chief Annamalai. AIADMK Deputy General Secretary KP Munusamy announced the decision after a resolution was passed unanimously at a meeting of MPs, MLAs and district heads at the party's headquarters in Chennai. “The state leadership of the BJP has been continuously making unnecessary remarks on our former leaders, our general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami and our cadres for the past one year. In today’s meeting, this resolution was passed unanimously,” said the party. Also read | 'INDIA alliance's agenda is to end country's ‘Sanatan’ culture', says PM Modi What did Annamalai say? At a BJP protest event earlier this month, Annamalai had said that late chief minister CN Annadurai insulted Hinduism at an event in Madurai in 1956. AIADMK was founded by former Tamil Nadu chief minister MG Ramachandran based on the principles popularised by CN Annadurai. In Annamalai's telling, in June 1956 in the Meenakshi temple in Madurai, a child sang a song from the Sangam era for Annadurai. The Dravidian leader praised the child for singing well but then said had she shown her talent centuries ago, a story would have been spun of how she was only able to sing divinely because she consumed the holy milk provided by Goddess Umaiyaval. After Annamalai's remarks, AIADMK leaders said the BJP leader had "deliberately insulted" the Dravidian stalwart. "The Dravidian movement has given life to us all. Anna gave everyone opportunities and equal rights to women and gave the name Tamil Nadu to this state," AIADMK MP CV Shanmugam had said at the time. "You (Annamalai) are not eligible to speak about Anna. Even after being in alliance, Annamalai is speaking ill of Perarignar Anna. Earlier, he critiqued Amma (Jayalalithaa) and now Anna." Watch | Indian opposition parties form ‘INDIA’ alliance for 2024 election × Annamalai dodged media questions on AIADMK going its separate way. Despite aligning with the BJP, AIADMK has had a horror showing in the past elections. It lost overwhelmingly in the 2019 Lok Sabha election where it only garnered one seat. Later in the state elections of 2021, it fell to 75 seats from 135 seats five years ago. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Blow to BJP? AIADMK severs ties with NDA over Annamalai's remarks

The 26-member I.N.D.I.A bloc will meet in Mumbai on August 31 and September 1 to discuss their strategy for the Lok Sabha elections in 2024. The alliance will meet for the third time after previous gatherings in Patna and Bengaluru.

India: Opposition bloc 'I.N.D.I.A', ruling NDA holds meetings in Mumbai

As many as 63 leaders from 28 parties of the newly-minted opposition coalition of India Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) will be assembling in the western Indian city of Mumbai on Thursday(August 31) for a two-day meeting to hammer out differences and develop a coherent strategy.

As many as 63 leaders from 28 parties of the newly-minted opposition coalition of India Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) will be assembling in the western Indian city of Mumbai on Thursday(August 31) for a two-day meeting to hammer out differences and develop a coherent strategy. The meeting comes a little more than a month after the alliance parties met in Bengaluru to show a singular, strong front. Thursday's meeting, however, is the group's first effort at moving beyond symbolism and resolving the divisive issues currently plaguing the alliance. According to reports, the alliance is likely to unveil a common logo as well as chalk a mega public outreach programme. The grouping and its leaders might also brainstorm ideas about a social media strategy, fix dates and venues for the next meeting and arrive at a common ground on contentious issues such as the use of EVMs (Electronic Voting Machine). Rashtriya Janata Dal chief Lalu Prasad hinted that the decision to name a convener for the bloc was likely to be made on the second day of the meeting, despite a section of the bloc feeling there is no need for a convener right now. The fault lines may have started to emerge even before the meeting. A Congress social media post on the meeting featured Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi at the centre while other leaders were omitted. Watch | We have decided to fight elections together', says Nitish Kumar after opposition meet × INDIA needs to get its act right With less than a year to go for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the battle lines have been drawn between the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and INDIA. If the opposition manages to stick the landing by addressing the thorny issues, then only it might stand a chance to dethrone the BJP government, argue experts. The alliance, born out of political conveniences as well as desperation, is possibly the last-ditch attempt by the opposition to cobble together a grouping that can halt the charging juggernaut of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Also read | 'Here to save democracy...': Indian opposition parties convene in Bengaluru for mega meeting In the last two general elections, the NDA, led by PM Modi has decimated the opposition, rendering the Indian parliament devoid of a challenger that can put the government in dock or disrupt proceedings. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Moving beyond symbolism?: Opposition alliance INDIA to hold two-day meeting in Mumbai

India has experienced several political upheavals throughout its 77-year history, whether in the 1960s when the Jan Sangh and other parties joined forces to combat Congress, or after the state of emergency of 1976 when the opposition joined hands against the Indira Gandhi government, the unstable governments of the 1990s, the turmoil of the first BJP government led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee, or the most recent Maharashtra government developments.

In all these, one thing that stayed common is the rise of a strong opposition.

Now, the nation's largest opposition parties have banded together to oppose the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-exudes-confidence-during-no-confidence-motion-debate-slams-india-alliance-624273">India: No-confidence motion defeated; PM Modi exudes 'confidence' of 2024 win, slams I.N.D.I.A. alliance</a>

On July 18, under the direction of Mallikarjun Kharge of the Congress party, the 26 opposition parties named themselves INDIA, or the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance,&nbsp;renaming its earlier name UPA or United Progressive Alliance.

It remains to be seen whether this parliamentary coalition would defeat the BJP, the country's current ruling party, in the 2024 general elections, but they want the polls to happen earlier.&nbsp;

With that hope, they have moved a no-confidence motion against the government.

<h2>What is the recent INDIA vs NDA battle?</h2>

The 26-party alliance declared in Bengaluru on July 18 with much fanfare that they had united under the banner of "INDIA '' to challenge the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Meanwhile the ruling NDA held a conference of 38 parties&nbsp; just when INDIA was formed. Prime Minister Modi criticised the INDIA alliance as "unholy" and "opportunistic" with the sole aim of deposing him.

Social media users who leaned to the right framed the #INDIAvsNDA conflict as "Bharat versus India". The argument is that there is "much ado about nothing": parties and leaders, not alliance names, win elections.

By giving voters a choice between the Narendra Modi-led NDA and other political parties, the coalition seeks to dismiss the claim that there is no option other than Modi. But will that translate into votes?

<h2>Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA)</h2>

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Indian National Congress (INC) are two of the 26 opposition parties that make up the INDIA alliance. The new name was proposed by Mamata Banerjee, TMC chief and the chief minister of West Bengal at the opposition meet in Bengaluru.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhis-ex-colleague-defends-his-flying-kiss-act-calling-it-an-affectionate-gesture-624093">Rahul Gandhi's ex-colleague defends his ‘flying kiss’ act, calls it an ‘affectionate gesture’</a>

To challenge the BJP in future elections, the coalition aims to develop a strategy and a shared agenda.

<h2>National Democratic Alliance (NDA)</h2>

The NDA, a seasoned coalition dedicated to pursuing both national and regional goals, is led by BJP and Prime Minister Modi.

NDA has 38 members as of now, and many of them are tiny regional parties. There are key partners like the AIADMK, Lok Janshakti Party, and Shiv Sena.

Modi routinely highlights and lauds the NDA's accomplishments and emphasis on the growth of the country. His administration charges the opposition with encouraging nepotism, strife, and corruption.

According to Modi, A stands for the aspirations of people and regions, signifying contribution rather than coercion. N stands for New India, D for Developed Nation.

<h2>UPA to INDIA transition</h2>

The transition from UPA to INDIA shows the opposition's determination to put together a single front to take on the NDA in the next elections.

Watch |&nbsp;PM Modi LIVE: When Congress brings no-confidence motion again in 2028, India will be 3rd largest economy

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There are indications that Sonia Gandhi, the former president of Congress, would be selected to serve as the alliance's leader.

<h2>What are the voting shares and seat allocations?</h2>

In the event of INDIA going together as an alliance in the 2024 election, the most crucial issue would be the division of seats among its members, as the main national party Congress has been at loggerheads in the past with the regional parties now in INDIA.

The hardest states to predict are Kerala, where the CPM and Congress have a bitter history of conflict; Punjab, where the AAP and Congress are the two strongest and opposing parties; Uttar Pradesh, where the Samajwadi Party may demand a fair share from Congress; and West Bengal, a state where Mamata Banerjee's TMC and Congress are vying for influence. &nbsp;

If partners in the alliance adopt the strategy of preserving the seat to the party that won seats in 2019,&nbsp; and giving the rest to the party which came second in 2019, seat allocation shouldn't be a significant problem. The formula is also based on the notion of natural justice.

<h2>The numbers game:&nbsp;144 + 284 + 57&nbsp;+ 58 = 543</h2>

 
The total number of Lok Sabha seats up for election is 543.

If one were to add up the seats of all UPA members and the parties that have joined INDIA now, their total seat strength in the current Lok Sabha would be 89% of the available seats, or 485 seats.

That number is reached by adding up 144 + 284 + 57.

Let's break it down for you.

In 2019 election,&nbsp;144&nbsp;seats were won by 17 of the 26 parties of UPA , representing 27% of the Lok Sabha. Congress leads this pack with 52 seats, followed by DMK with 23, TMC with 22, and JD(U) with 16 seats.

If one were to consider all the other newly added INDIA-related parties, their total seat number adds up to&nbsp;284.

Then there are&nbsp;57&nbsp;constituencies where Congress has a natural interest to contest on its own, against regional parties that are currently in or are likely to join INDIA alliance. These include 25 Andhra Pradesh seats, six seats in Telengana and 19 seats in Odisha.

Once these 57 seats have been taken into account, and assuming they win all of them, INDIA's Lok Sabha's strength will increase by 10%.

So that's 144 + 284 + 57 = 485

There are still 58 &nbsp;seats left to be allotted, out of the total Lok Sabha strength of 543 as mentioned earlier.

Out of these, 12 of them are in Bihar, where allies like HAM, RLSP, and VIP have switched sides and joined the UPA or have ceased to exist.

The other 37 are in Uttar Pradesh.

INDIA alliance will likely support RJD in Bihar and BSP in Uttar Pradesh.

Sajjan Kumar, a political analyst, and researcher, told WION, “We saw a sort of 'mahagathbandhan' in 2019 Lok Sabha elections, yet the BJP secured greater victory. So, does coming together of different parties, bring together different voters of the society? The answer is more complicated. The entire compliance will be more than what happened in 2019. Anti-incumbency is going to be there which may lead the BJP to lose seats."

"From Mamta Banerjee to Sharad Pawar, to Nitish Kumar in Bihar, in what way they will help? These things don't add up but at the level of opposition, this is a great deal of motivation," he said.

"Opposition is also going to make a very aggressive narrative; therefore, a loss is expected in Bihar, in Bengal, and this will give a reason to encircle the BJP, &nbsp;in a tangible sense," he added.

"The opposition is going to improve its tally, and Congress may make any addition to its tally. That will be a sort of victory compared to the 2014 and 2019 elections.”

One of the questions that remain is, what if the INDIA alliance’s entire vote count is summed up? Will it be able to turn over the NDA?

As per the expert, “NDA during Atal Bihari Vajpayee, everyone had the same dilemma, of different ideologies, but the formula has been to abandon your core demand and to come up with a common mindset."

"For example, Article 370, Ram Temple, Uniform Civil Code were all rejected during the Atal govt, but that happened when the BJP came on its own.&nbsp;

"I feel that if INDIA has the numbers in its favour, then it would be easier to work out, and common things will be adopted. Any opposition, any alliance, the core anchor gets several seats way more than any other constituent parts.&nbsp;

"Congress has to be able to get the number to govern. It needs to have 80-100 seats, to claim to dictate the terms, then it will be acceptable to all will be more effective because numerically the Congress will have a psychological impact while regional parties will be at the max 30-40 seats.”

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

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India has experienced several political upheavals throughout its 77-year history, whether in the 1960s when the Jan Sangh and other parties joined forces to combat Congress, or after the state of emergency of 1976 when the opposition joined hands against the Indira Gandhi government, the unstable governments of the 1990s, the turmoil of the first BJP government led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee, or the most recent Maharashtra government developments.

India has experienced several political upheavals throughout its 77-year history, whether in the 1960s when the Jan Sangh and other parties joined forces to combat Congress, or after the state of emergency of 1976 when the opposition joined hands against the Indira Gandhi government, the unstable governments of the 1990s, the turmoil of the first BJP government led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee, or the most recent Maharashtra government developments. In all these, one thing that stayed common is the rise of a strong opposition. Now, the nation's largest opposition parties have banded together to oppose the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Also read | India: No-confidence motion defeated; PM Modi exudes 'confidence' of 2024 win, slams I.N.D.I.A. alliance On July 18, under the direction of Mallikarjun Kharge of the Congress party, the 26 opposition parties named themselves INDIA, or the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, renaming its earlier name UPA or United Progressive Alliance. It remains to be seen whether this parliamentary coalition would defeat the BJP, the country's current ruling party, in the 2024 general elections, but they want the polls to happen earlier. With that hope, they have moved a no-confidence motion against the government. What is the recent INDIA vs NDA battle? The 26-party alliance declared in Bengaluru on July 18 with much fanfare that they had united under the banner of "INDIA '' to challenge the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Meanwhile the ruling NDA held a conference of 38 parties just when INDIA was formed. Prime Minister Modi criticised the INDIA alliance as "unholy" and "opportunistic" with the sole aim of deposing him. Social media users who leaned to the right framed the #INDIAvsNDA conflict as "Bharat versus India". The argument is that there is "much ado about nothing": parties and leaders, not alliance names, win elections. By giving voters a choice between the Narendra Modi-led NDA and other political parties, the coalition seeks to dismiss the claim that there is no option other than Modi. But will that translate into votes? Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) The Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Indian National Congress (INC) are two of the 26 opposition parties that make up the INDIA alliance. The new name was proposed by Mamata Banerjee, TMC chief and the chief minister of West Bengal at the opposition meet in Bengaluru. Also read | Rahul Gandhi's ex-colleague defends his ‘flying kiss’ act, calls it an ‘affectionate gesture’ To challenge the BJP in future elections, the coalition aims to develop a strategy and a shared agenda. National Democratic Alliance (NDA) The NDA, a seasoned coalition dedicated to pursuing both national and regional goals, is led by BJP and Prime Minister Modi. NDA has 38 members as of now, and many of them are tiny regional parties. There are key partners like the AIADMK, Lok Janshakti Party, and Shiv Sena. Modi routinely highlights and lauds the NDA's accomplishments and emphasis on the growth of the country. His administration charges the opposition with encouraging nepotism, strife, and corruption. According to Modi, A stands for the aspirations of people and regions, signifying contribution rather than coercion. N stands for New India, D for Developed Nation. UPA to INDIA transition The transition from UPA to INDIA shows the opposition's determination to put together a single front to take on the NDA in the next elections. Watch | PM Modi LIVE: When Congress brings no-confidence motion again in 2028, India will be 3rd largest economy There are indications that Sonia Gandhi, the former president of Congress, would be selected to serve as the alliance's leader. What are the voting shares and seat allocations? In the event of INDIA going together as an alliance in the 2024 election, the most crucial issue would be the division of seats among its members, as the main national party Congress has been at loggerheads in the past with the regional parties now in INDIA. The hardest states to predict are Kerala, where the CPM and Congress have a bitter history of conflict; Punjab, where the AAP and Congress are the two strongest and opposing parties; Uttar Pradesh, where the Samajwadi Party may demand a fair share from Congress; and West Bengal, a state where Mamata Banerjee's TMC and Congress are vying for influence. If partners in the alliance adopt the strategy of preserving the seat to the party that won seats in 2019, and giving the rest to the party which came second in 2019, seat allocation shouldn't be a significant problem. The formula is also based on the notion of natural justice. The numbers game: 144 + 284 + 57 + 58 = 543 The total number of Lok Sabha seats up for election is 543. If one were to add up the seats of all UPA members and the parties that have joined INDIA now, their total seat strength in the current Lok Sabha would be 89% of the available seats, or 485 seats. That number is reached by adding up 144 + 284 + 57. Let's break it down for you. In 2019 election, 144 seats were won by 17 of the 26 parties of UPA , representing 27% of the Lok Sabha. Congress leads this pack with 52 seats, followed by DMK with 23, TMC with 22, and JD(U) with 16 seats. If one were to consider all the other newly added INDIA-related parties, their total seat number adds up to 284. Then there are 57 constituencies where Congress has a natural interest to contest on its own, against regional parties that are currently in or are likely to join INDIA alliance. These include 25 Andhra Pradesh seats, six seats in Telengana and 19 seats in Odisha. Once these 57 seats have been taken into account, and assuming they win all of them, INDIA's Lok Sabha's strength will increase by 10%. So that's 144 + 284 + 57 = 485 There are still 58 seats left to be allotted, out of the total Lok Sabha strength of 543 as mentioned earlier. Out of these, 12 of them are in Bihar, where allies like HAM, RLSP, and VIP have switched sides and joined the UPA or have ceased to exist. The other 37 are in Uttar Pradesh. INDIA alliance will likely support RJD in Bihar and BSP in Uttar Pradesh. Sajjan Kumar, a political analyst, and researcher, told WION, “We saw a sort of 'mahagathbandhan' in 2019 Lok Sabha elections, yet the BJP secured greater victory. So, does coming together of different parties, bring together different voters of the society? The answer is more complicated. The entire compliance will be more than what happened in 2019. Anti-incumbency is going to be there which may lead the BJP to lose seats." "From Mamta Banerjee to Sharad Pawar, to Nitish Kumar in Bihar, in what way they will help? These things don't add up but at the level of opposition, this is a great deal of motivation," he said. "Opposition is also going to make a very aggressive narrative; therefore, a loss is expected in Bihar, in Bengal, and this will give a reason to encircle the BJP, in a tangible sense," he added. "The opposition is going to improve its tally, and Congress may make any addition to its tally. That will be a sort of victory compared to the 2014 and 2019 elections.” One of the questions that remain is, what if the INDIA alliance’s entire vote count is summed up? Will it be able to turn over the NDA? As per the expert, “NDA during Atal Bihari Vajpayee, everyone had the same dilemma, of different ideologies, but the formula has been to abandon your core demand and to come up with a common mindset." "For example, Article 370, Ram Temple, Uniform Civil Code were all rejected during the Atal govt, but that happened when the BJP came on its own. "I feel that if INDIA has the numbers in its favour, then it would be easier to work out, and common things will be adopted. Any opposition, any alliance, the core anchor gets several seats way more than any other constituent parts. "Congress has to be able to get the number to govern. It needs to have 80-100 seats, to claim to dictate the terms, then it will be acceptable to all will be more effective because numerically the Congress will have a psychological impact while regional parties will be at the max 30-40 seats.” (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

The Opposition's INDIA vs The NDA: Country’s next power struggle

More than two dozen Indian opposition parties said on Tuesday that they had formed an alliance called "INDIA" to challenge Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in parliamentary elections next year.

Indian opposition parties form ‘INDIA’ alliance for 2024 election

Just a day after 26 political parties in India announced their decision to take on the ruling party BJP under the alliance name 'INDIA' (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance), a police complaint has been registered against the aforementioned parties.

The complaint alleges that these 26 opposition parties are making "improper" use of the name INDIA "for undue influence".

<h2>INDIA vs NDA</h2>

Gearing up for the next year's Indian Lok Sabha elections, 26 opposition political parties had announced that they would take on BJP in under the alliance name 'INDIA'.

The parties quickly coined "INDIA vs NDA" to stress upon this significant election battle.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nda-vs-india-bjp-opposition-parties-names-their-alliance-india-617061">NDA vs INDIA: Opposition renames alliance from UPA to INDIA ahead of 2024 Lok Sabha polls</a>

However, since then a police complaint has been lodged at Barakhamba Police Station in Delhi against the 26 opposition political parties' "improper use of the name of INDIA and use of the said name for the undue influence and personation at elections."

<h2>The complainant seeks action against parties</h2>

Behind this complaint, as per news agency ANI is a person by the name of Dr Avinish Mishra.

Mishra has reportedly requested "necessary action" against the parties.

He has filed the complaint against the more than two dozen parties namely, Indian National Congress (INC); All India Trinamool Congress (TMC); Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK); Aam Aadmi Party (AAP); Janata Dal (United); Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD); Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM); Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Sharad Pawar; Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC); People's Democratic Party (PDP); Communist Party of India (Marxist); Communist Party of India (CPI); Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP); Shiv Sena (UBT); Samajwadi Party (SP); Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD); Apna Dal (Kamerawadi); All India Forward Bloc; Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK); Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK); Kongunadu Makkal Desai Katchi (KMDK); Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist); Manithaneya Makkal Katchi (MMK); Indian Union Muslim League (IUML); and Kerala Congress (M); Kerala Congress (Joseph).

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-mp-and-wfi-chief-brij-bhushan-singh-granted-interim-bail-in-sexual-harassment-case-617050">BJP MP and WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh granted interim bail in sexual harassment case</a>

The complaint alleges that the "act of the afore-named political parties to name their alliance as 'INDIA' has certainly hurt the sentiments of all Indians who identify themselves as citizens of 'INDIA'."

The complaint has been filed under Section 2(c) of the Emblems Act which defines "name" to include any abbreviation of a name, and Section 5 of the Emblems Act, which provides for a punishment with a fine which may extend to 500 rupees to be imposed on any person who is found to be contravening provisions of Section 3 of the Emblems Act.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Just a day after 26 political parties in India announced their decision to take on the ruling party BJP under the alliance name 'INDIA' (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance), a police complaint has been registered against the aforementioned parties.

Just a day after 26 political parties in India announced their decision to take on the ruling party BJP under the alliance name 'INDIA' (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance), a police complaint has been registered against the aforementioned parties. The complaint alleges that these 26 opposition parties are making "improper" use of the name INDIA "for undue influence". INDIA vs NDA Gearing up for the next year's Indian Lok Sabha elections, 26 opposition political parties had announced that they would take on BJP in under the alliance name 'INDIA'. The parties quickly coined "INDIA vs NDA" to stress upon this significant election battle. Also read | NDA vs INDIA: Opposition renames alliance from UPA to INDIA ahead of 2024 Lok Sabha polls However, since then a police complaint has been lodged at Barakhamba Police Station in Delhi against the 26 opposition political parties' "improper use of the name of INDIA and use of the said name for the undue influence and personation at elections." The complainant seeks action against parties Behind this complaint, as per news agency ANI is a person by the name of Dr Avinish Mishra. Mishra has reportedly requested "necessary action" against the parties. He has filed the complaint against the more than two dozen parties namely, Indian National Congress (INC); All India Trinamool Congress (TMC); Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK); Aam Aadmi Party (AAP); Janata Dal (United); Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD); Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM); Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Sharad Pawar; Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC); People's Democratic Party (PDP); Communist Party of India (Marxist); Communist Party of India (CPI); Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP); Shiv Sena (UBT); Samajwadi Party (SP); Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD); Apna Dal (Kamerawadi); All India Forward Bloc; Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK); Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK); Kongunadu Makkal Desai Katchi (KMDK); Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist); Manithaneya Makkal Katchi (MMK); Indian Union Muslim League (IUML); and Kerala Congress (M); Kerala Congress (Joseph). Also read | BJP MP and WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh granted interim bail in sexual harassment case The complaint alleges that the "act of the afore-named political parties to name their alliance as 'INDIA' has certainly hurt the sentiments of all Indians who identify themselves as citizens of 'INDIA'." The complaint has been filed under Section 2(c) of the Emblems Act which defines "name" to include any abbreviation of a name, and Section 5 of the Emblems Act, which provides for a punishment with a fine which may extend to 500 rupees to be imposed on any person who is found to be contravening provisions of Section 3 of the Emblems Act. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Complaint filed against opposition parties for using alliance name ‘INDIA’ for ‘undue influence’

Indian Political System is taking a new turn as 26 opposition parties get united under the banner of I-N-D-I-A. Watch this video to find out all details.

I-N-D-I-A: The name that has united India's opposition parties against the ruling Modi government

Leaders of the opposition parties have&nbsp;decided to name their alliance INDIA which stands for ‘Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance’ on Tuesday, July 18, at the ongoing&nbsp;meeting in Bengaluru city of India's southern Karnataka state, announced Congress party president Mallikarjun Kharge at a press conference.&nbsp; 
 
Earlier, the new name of the opposition alliance had been&nbsp;revealed in tweets by leaders of opposition parties RJD (Rashtriya Janata Dal) and Shiv Sena (UBT).

Leaders from 26 opposition parties that are in power in Delhi and 10 other states — individually or in alliance — gathered in Bengaluru for a two-day meeting starting Monday&nbsp; to discuss a strategy to take on the Narendra Modi-led NDA (National Democratic&nbsp;Alliance) in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha polls.

<h2>Chak De, INDIA</h2>

As news trickled about the name being under consideration, Congress Lok Sabha MP Manickam Tagore said on Twitter, "INDIA will win."

"Chak De! INDIA," tweeted Trinamool Congress MP Derek O'Brien even as the meeting was underway.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-mp-and-wfi-chief-brij-bhushan-singh-granted-interim-bail-in-sexual-harassment-case-617050">BJP MP and WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh granted interim bail in sexual harassment case</a>

As per people aware of the matter, former Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray had mooted the name for the grouping at the meeting in Patna last month. However, certain reports said, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal suggested the name, while&nbsp;others suggested&nbsp;that former Lok Sabha member Rahul Gandhi is behind the catchy name.

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Wow, It is INDIA 🇮🇳 vs BJP 🚩 now. 
 
Every Indian are going to vote for INDIA in 2024 and must <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaveDemocracy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaveDemocracy</a> ✊ 
 
I - Indian 
N - National 
D - Democratic 
I - Inclusive 
A - Alliance <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDIA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDIA</a> 🇮🇳💥 <a href="https://t.co/kAx6YCgvG7">pic.twitter.com/kAx6YCgvG7</a>
— Congress For India (@INC4IN) <a href="https://twitter.com/INC4IN/status/1681251647106990081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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𝐈 - 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐧 
𝐍 - 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 
𝐃 - 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 
𝐈 - 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 
𝐀 - 𝐀𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 
 
𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐈𝐀 की जीत होगी 🇮🇳
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1681257381458751488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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INDIA 🇮🇳 will win
— Manickam Tagore .B🇮🇳✋மாணிக்கம் தாகூர்.ப (@manickamtagore) <a href="https://twitter.com/manickamtagore/status/1681229208322965511?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, Rajya Sabha MP, Priyanka Chaturvedi too confirmed the alliance name on Twitter. In a tweet, she wrote "So 2023 will be Team INDIA Vs Team NDA".

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So 2024 will be 
 
Team INDIA 
Vs 
Team NDA 
 
Chak De, INDIA!
— Priyanka Chaturvedi🇮🇳 (@priyankac19) <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankac19/status/1681234495125725184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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विपक्षी एकता का नया नाम "INDIA" 
I - Indian 
N - National 
D - Developmental 
I - Inclusive 
A - Alliance<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JDU?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JDU</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NitishKumar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NitishKumar</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MahaGathbandhan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MahaGathbandhan</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UnitedWeStand?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UnitedWeStand</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/oppositionmeeting?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#oppositionmeeting</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bengaluru?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bengaluru</a> <a href="https://t.co/ttsk7g0aVN">pic.twitter.com/ttsk7g0aVN</a>
— Janata Dal (United) (@Jduonline) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jduonline/status/1681254523028004864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Who will head the alliance?</h2>

Quoting sources, NDTV reported that former UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi is slated to be named the president of the alliance, while Bihar Chief Minister will be the convener.

It also reports that some left parties were not in favour of calling it an 'alliance' and wanted that to be changed to 'Front'.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-issues-takedown-notices-to-15-websites-for-selling-e-cigarettes-617015">India issues takedown notices to 15 websites for selling e-cigarettes&nbsp;</a>

Speaking at a press conference in Bengaluru, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge confirmed the that their alliance will be called Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance.

He added that the next opposition meeting will be held in Mumbai. The date of the meeting is yet to be announced. Kharge revealed that an 11-member coordination committee will be set up, the names of committee members will be announced during the Mumbai meeting.

<h2>Saving India</h2>

Speaking at the sidelines of the multi-party meeting, many opposition leaders hit out at ruling BJP part and said that the alliance is aimed at saving the country, democracy and the Constitution. They alleged the country's democracy was being "played with" under the BJP government and there was a need to protect the "idea of India".

AAP leader Kejriwal stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had his chance to rule India for 10 years and has made a complete mess of almost every sector.

"He has fuelled hatred amongst the people, the economy is in shambles, inflation is at its peak, and there is unemployment in all sectors. It is time for the people of India to get rid of him, so all the like-minded parties are coming together," he said.

<h2>Meme fest</h2>

The announcement has led to a flurry of memes on Twitter and other social media websites. Many are comparing the new&nbsp;alliance name to the quintessential scene from Bollywood film Chak De India&nbsp;where actor Shahrukh Khan's character teaches his hockey players an important lesson on nationalism and&nbsp;pushes them to victory.

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INDIA ♥️ 
In 2024 
BJP vs INDIA <a href="https://t.co/3DhgMt3NFg">pic.twitter.com/3DhgMt3NFg</a>
— काव्या INDIA (@bindass_ladki) <a href="https://twitter.com/bindass_ladki/status/1681239157392412672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The man who coined this I N D I A, name for opposition alliance deserves a medal. 
 
Sounds good, fits good &amp; will work good. 
 
You will not hear TV media saying, ' INDIA ke khilaaf NDA ki zabardast ghera bandi'.🔥🔥
— Amock (@Politics_2022_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Politics_2022_/status/1681231151413997574?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In his address on Tuesday, Congress president Kharge said his party is not interested in the Prime Minister’s post but in protecting the idea of India, the Constitution, secularism, and democracy. Kharge said there are differences among them at the state level&nbsp;but they can be put aside for the sake of protecting the people. 
 
“...differences are not so big that we can’t overcome them for the benefit of common people who are suffering inflation. We can set aside our differences for the youth who are suffering from unemployment and for the poor, the Dalit, tribals, and the minorities whose rights are being crushed.” 
 
The previous opposition alliance, the UPA had around 20 parties. 
 
Kharge said the 26 parties attending the meeting have substantial political strength as they govern 11 states.&nbsp; 
 
The ruling National Democratic Alliance also held a meeting on Tuesday. The parallel meetings mark the return of coalition politics to the centre stage once again before the general elections due next year. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Leaders of the opposition parties have decided to name their alliance INDIA which stands for ‘Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance’ on Tuesday, July 18, at the ongoing meeting in Bengaluru city of India's southern Karnataka state, announced Congress party president Mallikarjun Kharge at a press conference.

Leaders of the opposition parties have decided to name their alliance INDIA which stands for ‘Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance’ on Tuesday, July 18, at the ongoing meeting in Bengaluru city of India's southern Karnataka state, announced Congress party president Mallikarjun Kharge at a press conference. Earlier, the new name of the opposition alliance had been revealed in tweets by leaders of opposition parties RJD (Rashtriya Janata Dal) and Shiv Sena (UBT). Leaders from 26 opposition parties that are in power in Delhi and 10 other states — individually or in alliance — gathered in Bengaluru for a two-day meeting starting Monday to discuss a strategy to take on the Narendra Modi-led NDA (National Democratic Alliance) in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Chak De, INDIA As news trickled about the name being under consideration, Congress Lok Sabha MP Manickam Tagore said on Twitter, "INDIA will win." "Chak De! INDIA," tweeted Trinamool Congress MP Derek O'Brien even as the meeting was underway. Also read | BJP MP and WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh granted interim bail in sexual harassment case As per people aware of the matter, former Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray had mooted the name for the grouping at the meeting in Patna last month. However, certain reports said, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal suggested the name, while others suggested that former Lok Sabha member Rahul Gandhi is behind the catchy name. Wow, It is INDIA 🇮🇳 vs BJP 🚩 now. Every Indian are going to vote for INDIA in 2024 and must #SaveDemocracy ✊ I - Indian N - National D - Democratic I - Inclusive A - Alliance #INDIA 🇮🇳💥 pic.twitter.com/kAx6YCgvG7 — Congress For India (@INC4IN) July 18, 2023 × 𝐈 - 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐍 - 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐃 - 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐈 - 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐀 - 𝐀𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐈𝐀 की जीत होगी 🇮🇳 — Congress (@INCIndia) July 18, 2023 × INDIA 🇮🇳 will win — Manickam Tagore .B🇮🇳✋மாணிக்கம் தாகூர்.ப (@manickamtagore) July 18, 2023 × Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, Rajya Sabha MP, Priyanka Chaturvedi too confirmed the alliance name on Twitter. In a tweet, she wrote "So 2023 will be Team INDIA Vs Team NDA". So 2024 will be Team INDIA Vs Team NDA Chak De, INDIA! — Priyanka Chaturvedi🇮🇳 (@priyankac19) July 18, 2023 × विपक्षी एकता का नया नाम "INDIA" I - Indian N - National D - Developmental I - Inclusive A - Alliance#JDU #NitishKumar#MahaGathbandhan#UnitedWeStand#oppositionmeeting #bengaluru pic.twitter.com/ttsk7g0aVN — Janata Dal (United) (@Jduonline) July 18, 2023 × Who will head the alliance? Quoting sources, NDTV reported that former UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi is slated to be named the president of the alliance, while Bihar Chief Minister will be the convener. It also reports that some left parties were not in favour of calling it an 'alliance' and wanted that to be changed to 'Front'. Also read | India issues takedown notices to 15 websites for selling e-cigarettes Speaking at a press conference in Bengaluru, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge confirmed the that their alliance will be called Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance. He added that the next opposition meeting will be held in Mumbai. The date of the meeting is yet to be announced. Kharge revealed that an 11-member coordination committee will be set up, the names of committee members will be announced during the Mumbai meeting. Saving India Speaking at the sidelines of the multi-party meeting, many opposition leaders hit out at ruling BJP part and said that the alliance is aimed at saving the country, democracy and the Constitution. They alleged the country's democracy was being "played with" under the BJP government and there was a need to protect the "idea of India". AAP leader Kejriwal stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had his chance to rule India for 10 years and has made a complete mess of almost every sector. "He has fuelled hatred amongst the people, the economy is in shambles, inflation is at its peak, and there is unemployment in all sectors. It is time for the people of India to get rid of him, so all the like-minded parties are coming together," he said. Meme fest The announcement has led to a flurry of memes on Twitter and other social media websites. Many are comparing the new alliance name to the quintessential scene from Bollywood film Chak De India where actor Shahrukh Khan's character teaches his hockey players an important lesson on nationalism and pushes them to victory. INDIA ♥️ In 2024 BJP vs INDIA pic.twitter.com/3DhgMt3NFg — काव्या INDIA (@bindass_ladki) July 18, 2023 × The man who coined this I N D I A, name for opposition alliance deserves a medal. Sounds good, fits good & will work good. You will not hear TV media saying, ' INDIA ke khilaaf NDA ki zabardast ghera bandi'.🔥🔥 — Amock (@Politics_2022_) July 18, 2023 × In his address on Tuesday, Congress president Kharge said his party is not interested in the Prime Minister’s post but in protecting the idea of India, the Constitution, secularism, and democracy. Kharge said there are differences among them at the state level but they can be put aside for the sake of protecting the people. “...differences are not so big that we can’t overcome them for the benefit of common people who are suffering inflation. We can set aside our differences for the youth who are suffering from unemployment and for the poor, the Dalit, tribals, and the minorities whose rights are being crushed.” The previous opposition alliance, the UPA had around 20 parties. Kharge said the 26 parties attending the meeting have substantial political strength as they govern 11 states. The ruling National Democratic Alliance also held a meeting on Tuesday. The parallel meetings mark the return of coalition politics to the centre stage once again before the general elections due next year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NDA vs INDIA: Opposition renames alliance from UPA to INDIA ahead of 2024 Lok Sabha polls

The joint meeting of the opposition parties in India will be held on July 17-18 in the state of Karnataka’s Bengaluru ahead of Parliament’s monsoon session, announced the Congress Party, on Monday (July 3). This comes a day after Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar’s nephew Ajit Pawar crossed party lines in the Indian state of Maharashtra and joined the NDA government.&nbsp;

<h2>About the upcoming meeting</h2>

The announcement was made by Indian National Congress (INC) General Secretary KC Venugopal in a tweet which said, “After a hugely successful All-Opposition meeting in Patna, we will be holding the next meeting in Bengaluru on 17 and 18 July, 2023.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ncp-chief-sharad-pawar-reacts-to-nephew-ajits-rebellion-says-some-fell-pray-to-bjps-tactics-611430">NCP chief Sharad Pawar reacts to nephew Ajit's rebellion, says 'some fell pray to BJP's tactics'</a>

He added, “We are steadfast in our unwavering resolve to defeat the fascist and undemocratic forces and present a bold vision to take the country forward.” The meeting was earlier scheduled to take place on July 13-14 in Bengaluru but it was postponed.&nbsp;

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After a hugely successful All-Opposition meeting in Patna, we will be holding the next meeting in Bengaluru on 17 and 18 July, 2023. 
 
We are steadfast in our unwavering resolve to defeat the fascist and undemocratic forces and present a bold vision to take the country forward.
— K C Venugopal (@kcvenugopalmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/kcvenugopalmp/status/1675776442398035968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Prior to this, the opposition meeting was supposed to take place in Shimla but the venue was changed to Bengaluru, said Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar, last week. This also comes after Venugopal told ANI that Ajit Pawar’s rebellion is “not going to affect opposition unity,” and it is “NCP’s issue.”

<h2>Ajit Pawar’s move in Maharashtra</h2>

The announcement of the opposition meeting comes a day after NCP senior leader Ajit Pawar crossed party lines and joined the incumbent Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led state government and was sworn in as the new deputy CM of the state, a post he will share with the current Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ncps-ajit-pawar-joins-nda-government-takes-oath-as-deputy-chief-minister-of-maharashtra-611044">India: NCP's Ajit Pawar joins NDA government, takes oath as deputy chief minister of Maharashtra</a>

Addressing the NCP workers and supporters at the Yashwant Chavan Samadhi in the Indian city of Karad in Maharashtra, party chief Sharad Pawar, on Monday, said, “We were serving Maharashtra under Uddhav Thackeray but our government was toppled by some people. The same happened in some other parts of the country too in Delhi, Punjab and West Bengal where the governments are working democratically, are being attacked.”&nbsp;

However, he did not mention Ajit Pawar who caused the split in the NCP. The NCP chief earlier also said he would sit with Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT)’s Uddhav Thackeray to “assess the situation. Our main strength is the common people, they have elected us. We will work to strengthen the party again.” 
 
 
&nbsp;

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The joint meeting of the opposition parties in India will be held on July 17-18 in the state of Karnataka’s Bengaluru ahead of Parliament’s monsoon session, announced the Congress Party, on Monday (July 3).

The joint meeting of the opposition parties in India will be held on July 17-18 in the state of Karnataka’s Bengaluru ahead of Parliament’s monsoon session, announced the Congress Party, on Monday (July 3). This comes a day after Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar’s nephew Ajit Pawar crossed party lines in the Indian state of Maharashtra and joined the NDA government. About the upcoming meeting The announcement was made by Indian National Congress (INC) General Secretary KC Venugopal in a tweet which said, “After a hugely successful All-Opposition meeting in Patna, we will be holding the next meeting in Bengaluru on 17 and 18 July, 2023.” ALSO READ | NCP chief Sharad Pawar reacts to nephew Ajit's rebellion, says 'some fell pray to BJP's tactics' He added, “We are steadfast in our unwavering resolve to defeat the fascist and undemocratic forces and present a bold vision to take the country forward.” The meeting was earlier scheduled to take place on July 13-14 in Bengaluru but it was postponed. After a hugely successful All-Opposition meeting in Patna, we will be holding the next meeting in Bengaluru on 17 and 18 July, 2023. We are steadfast in our unwavering resolve to defeat the fascist and undemocratic forces and present a bold vision to take the country forward. — K C Venugopal (@kcvenugopalmp) July 3, 2023 × Prior to this, the opposition meeting was supposed to take place in Shimla but the venue was changed to Bengaluru, said Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar, last week. This also comes after Venugopal told ANI that Ajit Pawar’s rebellion is “not going to affect opposition unity,” and it is “NCP’s issue.” Ajit Pawar’s move in Maharashtra The announcement of the opposition meeting comes a day after NCP senior leader Ajit Pawar crossed party lines and joined the incumbent Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led state government and was sworn in as the new deputy CM of the state, a post he will share with the current Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis. ALSO READ | India: NCP's Ajit Pawar joins NDA government, takes oath as deputy chief minister of Maharashtra Addressing the NCP workers and supporters at the Yashwant Chavan Samadhi in the Indian city of Karad in Maharashtra, party chief Sharad Pawar, on Monday, said, “We were serving Maharashtra under Uddhav Thackeray but our government was toppled by some people. The same happened in some other parts of the country too in Delhi, Punjab and West Bengal where the governments are working democratically, are being attacked.” However, he did not mention Ajit Pawar who caused the split in the NCP. The NCP chief earlier also said he would sit with Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT)’s Uddhav Thackeray to “assess the situation. Our main strength is the common people, they have elected us. We will work to strengthen the party again.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian opposition parties to meet on July 17-18 in Bengaluru, says Congress party

In yet another dramatic turn of events in the Indian state of Maharashtra, Nationalist Congress Party's (NCP) senior leader Ajit Pawar, on Sunday (July 2), crossed party lines and joined the incumbent Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led state government and was sworn in as the new deputy CM of the state.&nbsp;

Pawar, along with dozens of other party leaders, joined the state government earlier today, and will now share the post along with incumbent Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis. However, after he was sworn in, Ajit Pawar clarified that he had not left NCP and joined the state government as the Nationalist Congress Party.

<h2>What happened on Sunday?</h2>

Earlier, on Sunday, Ajit Pawar, the leader of the opposition in Maharashtra, called an urgent meeting of the NCP MLAs (Members of the Legislative Assembly) amid reported rumours of him being unhappy that he was not chosen as the party’s state unit chief. Reportedly, he had also offered to resign as the opposition leader to take up the post.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-crisis-another-mla-joins-eknath-shindes-rebel-camp-491360">Maharashtra crisis: Another MLA joins Eknath Shinde's rebel camp</a>

Hours later it was announced that NCP leader and Sharad Pawar’s nephew Ajit Pawar will be sworn in as the deputy CM of Maharashtra. At least 30 other MLAs&nbsp;have joined Ajit Pawar out of which around eight ministers – Chaggan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse Patil, Hasan Mushrif, Dhananjay Munde, Dharmobaba Atram, Aditi Tatkare, Sanjay Bansode, and Anil Patil – were also sworn in.&nbsp;

The Indian state has witnessed a fourth oath-taking ceremony in less than three years amid political turmoil. Additionally, this is the 5th time that Ajit Pawar has been sworn in as the deputy CM, the most number of times a politician has been appointed for the post since it was first created in 1978.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Triple engine’ government of Maharashtra: Shinde</h2>

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and&nbsp;Shiv Sena welcomed Pawar with open arms. “Ajit Pawar always followed developmental politics,” said the incumbent Maharashtra CM Shinde.&nbsp;

He added, “Now we have one Chief Minister and two deputy Chief Ministers…I welcome him in the government and now the double engine government will become triple engine government. For the development of Maharashtra, I welcome Ajit Pawar and his leaders. Ajit Pawar’s experience will help strengthen Maharashtra.” &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/once-an-auto-driver-eknath-shinde-is-now-the-man-of-the-moment-in-indian-politics-493329">India: Ex-auto driver to Maharashtra chief minister, Eknath Shinde is man of moment</a>

Shinde&nbsp;had once led a similar move against his party Shiv Sena leader Uddhav Thackeray, whose faction is now known as Shiv Sena UBT (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), when he left with dozens of ministers and joined hands with BJP.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Joined government as NCP’: Ajit Pawar</h2>

Following the oath-taking ceremony, the newly inducted Deputy CM Ajit Pawar said, “Talks have been ongoing for quite some time, and there will be a cabinet expansion. We need to prioritise the development of Maharashtra. We made the decision to join the Shinde-Fadanvis government with almost all NCP MLAs.”&nbsp;

He also said the expansion of Maharashtra’s cabinet begins today and more ministers will be inducted soon. “Today, we have decided to support the Maharashtra government and took oath as ministers. There will be a discussion on the portfolios later.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/big-blow-to-uddhav-thackeray-eknath-shinde-faction-to-get-shiv-sena-name-rules-election-commission-563139">Big blow to Uddhav Thackeray: Eknath Shinde faction is real 'Shiv Sena', rules election commission</a>

Ajit Pawar also said if NCP can join hands with the BJP in Nagaland, why can’t they do the same for Maharashtra and its people? “Some MLAs could not be contacted as they are out of the country, but I spoke to all of them and they agreed with our decision,” said Ajit Pawar.&nbsp;

The newly appointed deputy CM also went on to praise the Indian PM and said, “The country is progressing under the leadership of PM Modi. He is also popular in other countries. Everyone supports him and appreciates his leadership.”&nbsp;

He added, “We will fight the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly elections with them (BJP) and that is why we have taken this decision.” However, Pawar also went on to clarify that “We have joined the government as the Nationalist Congress party and will fight any and every election in the name of the NCP.”&nbsp;

Similarly, state minister Chhagan Bhujabal said, “We have joined the government as its third party. A few people are saying that we have split the party but that is not correct. We have come here as NCP.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-happening-in-maharashtra-indias-richest-state-in-political-crisis-490979">What is happening in Maharashtra, India's richest state that's in political crisis?</a>

<h2>What about Sharad Pawar’s next move?</h2>

NCP leader, Sharad Pawar, who was in the city of Pune, Maharashtra when Ajit Pawar crossed party lines in Mumbai, spoke about how he is “happy” that some of his colleagues have decided to join the NDA government.

He added that there was supposed to be a meeting on July 6 to discuss important issues&nbsp;and some changes that were to be made within the party, but some people in the party have decided to take a “different stand”.&nbsp;

Speaking about Ajit Pawar’s move, the NCP chief said, “This is not a new thing. The party I was leading in 1980 had 58 MLAs, later all left and only 6 MLAs left, but I strengthened the numbers and those who left me lost in their constituencies.”&nbsp;

He also said that he received calls from Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee and others but “I am not worried about whatever happened today. Tomorrow, I will take the blessings of YB Chavan (former Maharashtra CM) and will hold a public meeting.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ncp-chief-sharad-pawar-names-praful-patel-daughter-supriya-sule-as-partys-working-presidents-602895">India: NCP chief Sharad Pawar names Praful Patel, daughter Supriya Sule as party's working presidents</a> 
 
About the position of the&nbsp;leader of the opposition, the NCP chief said he would sit with Congress and Uddhav Thackeray to "assess the situation. Our main strength is the common people, they have elected us. We will work to strengthen the party again."

He added, "MLAs and all senior leaders will sit together to decide about any action against the rebel leaders." Pawar also said action will be taken against Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare who “did not follow their responsibilities.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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In yet another dramatic turn of events in the Indian state of Maharashtra, Nationalist Congress Party's (NCP) senior leader Ajit Pawar, on Sunday (July 2), crossed party lines and joined the incumbent Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led state government and was sworn in as the new deputy CM of the state.

In yet another dramatic turn of events in the Indian state of Maharashtra, Nationalist Congress Party's (NCP) senior leader Ajit Pawar, on Sunday (July 2), crossed party lines and joined the incumbent Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led state government and was sworn in as the new deputy CM of the state. Pawar, along with dozens of other party leaders, joined the state government earlier today, and will now share the post along with incumbent Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis. However, after he was sworn in, Ajit Pawar clarified that he had not left NCP and joined the state government as the Nationalist Congress Party. What happened on Sunday? Earlier, on Sunday, Ajit Pawar, the leader of the opposition in Maharashtra, called an urgent meeting of the NCP MLAs (Members of the Legislative Assembly) amid reported rumours of him being unhappy that he was not chosen as the party’s state unit chief. Reportedly, he had also offered to resign as the opposition leader to take up the post. ALSO READ | Maharashtra crisis: Another MLA joins Eknath Shinde's rebel camp Hours later it was announced that NCP leader and Sharad Pawar’s nephew Ajit Pawar will be sworn in as the deputy CM of Maharashtra. At least 30 other MLAs have joined Ajit Pawar out of which around eight ministers – Chaggan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse Patil, Hasan Mushrif, Dhananjay Munde, Dharmobaba Atram, Aditi Tatkare, Sanjay Bansode, and Anil Patil – were also sworn in. The Indian state has witnessed a fourth oath-taking ceremony in less than three years amid political turmoil. Additionally, this is the 5th time that Ajit Pawar has been sworn in as the deputy CM, the most number of times a politician has been appointed for the post since it was first created in 1978. ‘Triple engine’ government of Maharashtra: Shinde Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Shiv Sena welcomed Pawar with open arms. “Ajit Pawar always followed developmental politics,” said the incumbent Maharashtra CM Shinde. He added, “Now we have one Chief Minister and two deputy Chief Ministers…I welcome him in the government and now the double engine government will become triple engine government. For the development of Maharashtra, I welcome Ajit Pawar and his leaders. Ajit Pawar’s experience will help strengthen Maharashtra.” ALSO READ | India: Ex-auto driver to Maharashtra chief minister, Eknath Shinde is man of moment Shinde had once led a similar move against his party Shiv Sena leader Uddhav Thackeray, whose faction is now known as Shiv Sena UBT (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), when he left with dozens of ministers and joined hands with BJP. ‘Joined government as NCP’: Ajit Pawar Following the oath-taking ceremony, the newly inducted Deputy CM Ajit Pawar said, “Talks have been ongoing for quite some time, and there will be a cabinet expansion. We need to prioritise the development of Maharashtra. We made the decision to join the Shinde-Fadanvis government with almost all NCP MLAs.” He also said the expansion of Maharashtra’s cabinet begins today and more ministers will be inducted soon. “Today, we have decided to support the Maharashtra government and took oath as ministers. There will be a discussion on the portfolios later.” ALSO READ | Big blow to Uddhav Thackeray: Eknath Shinde faction is real 'Shiv Sena', rules election commission Ajit Pawar also said if NCP can join hands with the BJP in Nagaland, why can’t they do the same for Maharashtra and its people? “Some MLAs could not be contacted as they are out of the country, but I spoke to all of them and they agreed with our decision,” said Ajit Pawar. The newly appointed deputy CM also went on to praise the Indian PM and said, “The country is progressing under the leadership of PM Modi. He is also popular in other countries. Everyone supports him and appreciates his leadership.” He added, “We will fight the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly elections with them (BJP) and that is why we have taken this decision.” However, Pawar also went on to clarify that “We have joined the government as the Nationalist Congress party and will fight any and every election in the name of the NCP.” Similarly, state minister Chhagan Bhujabal said, “We have joined the government as its third party. A few people are saying that we have split the party but that is not correct. We have come here as NCP.” ALSO READ | What is happening in Maharashtra, India's richest state that's in political crisis? What about Sharad Pawar’s next move? NCP leader, Sharad Pawar, who was in the city of Pune, Maharashtra when Ajit Pawar crossed party lines in Mumbai, spoke about how he is “happy” that some of his colleagues have decided to join the NDA government. He added that there was supposed to be a meeting on July 6 to discuss important issues and some changes that were to be made within the party, but some people in the party have decided to take a “different stand”. Speaking about Ajit Pawar’s move, the NCP chief said, “This is not a new thing. The party I was leading in 1980 had 58 MLAs, later all left and only 6 MLAs left, but I strengthened the numbers and those who left me lost in their constituencies.” He also said that he received calls from Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee and others but “I am not worried about whatever happened today. Tomorrow, I will take the blessings of YB Chavan (former Maharashtra CM) and will hold a public meeting.” ALSO READ | India: NCP chief Sharad Pawar names Praful Patel, daughter Supriya Sule as party's working presidents About the position of the leader of the opposition, the NCP chief said he would sit with Congress and Uddhav Thackeray to "assess the situation. Our main strength is the common people, they have elected us. We will work to strengthen the party again." He added, "MLAs and all senior leaders will sit together to decide about any action against the rebel leaders." Pawar also said action will be taken against Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare who “did not follow their responsibilities.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: NCP's Ajit Pawar joins NDA government, takes oath as deputy chief minister of Maharashtra

The next Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) will be Lt. Gen. Anil Chauhan (Retired) PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, SM, VSM, who will also serve as Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Military Affairs, starting on the day he assumes responsibility and continuing until further orders.&nbsp;

Lt Gen Anil Chauhan has&nbsp;approximately 40 years of experience and held a number of commands, staff, and instrumental positions. He also had a wealth of knowledge on counter-insurgency operations in Jammu &amp; Kashmir and North-East India.&nbsp;

Lt Gen Anil Chauhan, who was born on May 18th, 1961, joined the 11 Gorkha Rifles of the Indian Army in 1981. He graduated from both the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun and the National Defense Academy in Khadakwasla.

The leader, who had the rank of Major General, oversaw an Infantry Division in Northern Command's crucial Baramula area. He later oversaw a corps in the North East while serving as a lieutenant general. From September 2019 until his retirement from the military in May 2021, he served as the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Command.&nbsp;

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-appoints-new-chief-of-defence-staff-520549">&nbsp;India appoints Lt Gen Anil Chauhan (Retired) as new Chief of Defence Staff</a>

The officer held significant staff positions, including the position of Director General of Military Operations, in addition to these leadership postings. The officer had previously participated in a United Nations mission to Angola.

On May 31, 2021, the officer retired from the Indian Army. He kept making contributions to strategic and national security issues even after leaving the Army.&nbsp;

Lt. General Anil Chauhan (Retired) received the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Uttam Yudh Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Sena Medal, and Vishisht Seva Medal for his honourable and outstanding service in the Army.

(with inputs from agencies)

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The next Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) will be Lt. Gen. Anil Chauhan (Retired) PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, SM, VSM, who will also serve as Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Military Affairs, starting on the day he assumes responsibility and continuing until further orders.

The next Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) will be Lt. Gen. Anil Chauhan (Retired) PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, SM, VSM, who will also serve as Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Military Affairs, starting on the day he assumes responsibility and continuing until further orders. Lt Gen Anil Chauhan has approximately 40 years of experience and held a number of commands, staff, and instrumental positions. He also had a wealth of knowledge on counter-insurgency operations in Jammu & Kashmir and North-East India. Lt Gen Anil Chauhan, who was born on May 18th, 1961, joined the 11 Gorkha Rifles of the Indian Army in 1981. He graduated from both the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun and the National Defense Academy in Khadakwasla. The leader, who had the rank of Major General, oversaw an Infantry Division in Northern Command's crucial Baramula area. He later oversaw a corps in the North East while serving as a lieutenant general. From September 2019 until his retirement from the military in May 2021, he served as the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Command. Also Read: India appoints Lt Gen Anil Chauhan (Retired) as new Chief of Defence Staff The officer held significant staff positions, including the position of Director General of Military Operations, in addition to these leadership postings. The officer had previously participated in a United Nations mission to Angola. On May 31, 2021, the officer retired from the Indian Army. He kept making contributions to strategic and national security issues even after leaving the Army. Lt. General Anil Chauhan (Retired) received the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Uttam Yudh Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Sena Medal, and Vishisht Seva Medal for his honourable and outstanding service in the Army. (with inputs from agencies)

From NDA to PVSM: Anil Chauhan's journey to becoming CDS of India

The former Governor of West Bengal, Jagdeep Dhankhar, is the candidate for the vice presidential election in 2022 from the NDA's edge. The announcement was made by BJP chief JP Nadda in a press conference.&nbsp; 
 
"After considering all the factors and consultations with the party, we have decided to announce Kisan Putra (farmer's son) Jagdeep Dhankhar as the BJP and NDA's candidate for Vice President," said Nadda.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, "Glad that Jagdeep Dhankhar (West Bengal Governor) will be our (NDA's) Vice Presidential candidate.&nbsp;I am sure that he will be an outstanding Chair in the Rajya Sabha and guide the proceedings of the House to further national progress."

After much deliberation, the party proposed the name of Jagdeep Dhankhar in the presence of PM Modi and the party's big leaders, including Amit Shah, Nitin Gadkari, Rajnath Singh, Shivraj Singh Chouhan and others. Let us know about Jagdeep Dhankhar:

Who is Jagdeep Dhankhar?

1. The former Bengal Governor, known for his prickly relationship with CM Mamata Banerjee, was born on May 18, 1951 in Kithana, Rajasthan. He is a member of the BJP.&nbsp;

2. He completed his schooling at Sainik School, Chittorgarh.

3. Graduated in Physics from the University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, and also earned an LLB from the same institution.

4. Ex-President of the Rajasthan High Court Bar Association in Jaipur.

5. Member of the 9th Lok Sabha from Jhunjhunu Lok Sabha Constituency in Rajasthan from 1989 to 1991 on a Janata Dal ticket.

6. Former MLA from Kishangarh in Rajasthan's 10th Legislative Assembly from 1993 to 1998.

7. President Ram Nath Kovind appointed him as Governor of West Bengal on July 30, 2019.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

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The former Governor of West Bengal, Jagdeep Dhankhar, is the candidate for the vice presidential election in 2022 from the NDA's edge. The announcement was made by BJP chief JP Nadda in a press conference.

The former Governor of West Bengal, Jagdeep Dhankhar, is the candidate for the vice presidential election in 2022 from the NDA's edge. The announcement was made by BJP chief JP Nadda in a press conference. "After considering all the factors and consultations with the party, we have decided to announce Kisan Putra (farmer's son) Jagdeep Dhankhar as the BJP and NDA's candidate for Vice President," said Nadda. Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, "Glad that Jagdeep Dhankhar (West Bengal Governor) will be our (NDA's) Vice Presidential candidate. I am sure that he will be an outstanding Chair in the Rajya Sabha and guide the proceedings of the House to further national progress." After much deliberation, the party proposed the name of Jagdeep Dhankhar in the presence of PM Modi and the party's big leaders, including Amit Shah, Nitin Gadkari, Rajnath Singh, Shivraj Singh Chouhan and others. Let us know about Jagdeep Dhankhar: Who is Jagdeep Dhankhar? 1. The former Bengal Governor, known for his prickly relationship with CM Mamata Banerjee, was born on May 18, 1951 in Kithana, Rajasthan. He is a member of the BJP. 2. He completed his schooling at Sainik School, Chittorgarh. 3. Graduated in Physics from the University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, and also earned an LLB from the same institution. 4. Ex-President of the Rajasthan High Court Bar Association in Jaipur. 5. Member of the 9th Lok Sabha from Jhunjhunu Lok Sabha Constituency in Rajasthan from 1989 to 1991 on a Janata Dal ticket. 6. Former MLA from Kishangarh in Rajasthan's 10th Legislative Assembly from 1993 to 1998. 7. President Ram Nath Kovind appointed him as Governor of West Bengal on July 30, 2019. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Who is Jagdeep Dhankhar, NDA's candidate for vice-presidential election?

After the conclusion of the vote-counting on Thursday, Droupadi Murmu, the NDA's presidential candidate, was officially declared as the India's 15th president. Yashwant Sinha received 1,877 votes with a value of 3,80,177, while Murmu received 2,824 votes with a value of 6,76,803. 4,809 MPs and MLAs participated in the voting that was conducted on July 18. President-elect Droupadi Murmu received the certificate at her residence in Delhi from PC Mody, Secretary General of the Rajya Sabha and Returning Officer for the 2022 Presidential Election.

At 64, she will also be the youngest and India's first president to be born after Independence. She will be sworn in on July 25.

The Indian Prime Minister called this victory a historic moment in the history of India. He tweeted that "India scripts history. At a time when 1.3 billion Indians are marking Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, a daughter of India hailing from a tribal community born in a remote part of eastern India has been elected our President! Congratulations to Smt. Droupadi Murmu Ji on this feat."

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India scripts history. At a time when 1.3 billion Indians are marking Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, a daughter of India hailing from a tribal community born in a remote part of eastern India has been elected our President! 
 
Congratulations to Smt. Droupadi Murmu Ji on this feat.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1550131416226476033?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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BJP leader J P Nadda, key members of his Cabinet, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated her for the thumping victory.

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Delhi | Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets and congratulates <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DroupadiMurmu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DroupadiMurmu</a> on being elected as the new President of the country. BJP national president JP Nadda is also present. 
 
Visuals from her residence. <a href="https://t.co/5wrcpCXElC">pic.twitter.com/5wrcpCXElC</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1550130769154060297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Yaswant Sinha has also conceded defeat. Taking to Twitter, he posted that "I join my fellow citizens in congratulating Smt Droupadi Murmu on her victory in the Presidential Election 2022. India hopes that as the 15th President of the Republic she functions as the Custodian of the Constitution without fear or favour."

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I join my fellow citizens in congratulating Smt Droupadi Murmu on her victory in the Presidential Election 2022. 
 
India hopes that as the 15th President of the Republic she functions as the Custodian of the Constitution without fear or favour. <a href="https://t.co/0gG3pdvTor">pic.twitter.com/0gG3pdvTor</a>
— Yashwant Sinha (@YashwantSinha) <a href="https://twitter.com/YashwantSinha/status/1550124888010399744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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On July 18, 771 MPs and 4025 MLAs voted in the presidential election, accounting for more than 99 percent of the electoral college. Droupadi Murmu of the NDA and Yashwant Sinha of the combined opposition contested the election head-to-head. With this thumping victory, Droupadi Murmu has become India's first tribal woman president.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-draupadi-murmu-the-tribal-leader-who-is-going-to-become-indias-next-president-499431">Also read | Who is Droupadi Murmu, the tribal leader who is going to become India’s next president?</a> 
&nbsp;

She hasn't made any public statements in the month since being named the NDA's presidential candidate on June 21.Her numbers were boosted by backing from a number of opposition parties, including the BJD, Shiv Sena, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, YSR Congress, BSP, and TDP, and the victory run appeared assured. Some of these organisations had previously backed Yashwant Sinha, the joint opposition candidate.

Murmu visited state capitals around the nation to campaign for the presidency and received a warm welcome everywhere he went.

Odisha's Rairangpur village, the native place of Droupadi Murmu erupted in celebrations in anticipation of Droupadi Murmu's victory.A large crowd gathered outside BJP headquarters in Delhi earlier this evening to celebrate her victory. 
 
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After the conclusion of the vote-counting on Thursday, Droupadi Murmu, the NDA's presidential candidate, was officially declared as the India's 15th president. Yashwant Sinha received 1,877 votes with a value of 3,80,177, while Murmu received 2,824 votes with a value of 6,76,803.

After the conclusion of the vote-counting on Thursday, Droupadi Murmu, the NDA's presidential candidate, was officially declared as the India's 15th president. Yashwant Sinha received 1,877 votes with a value of 3,80,177, while Murmu received 2,824 votes with a value of 6,76,803. 4,809 MPs and MLAs participated in the voting that was conducted on July 18. President-elect Droupadi Murmu received the certificate at her residence in Delhi from PC Mody, Secretary General of the Rajya Sabha and Returning Officer for the 2022 Presidential Election. At 64, she will also be the youngest and India's first president to be born after Independence. She will be sworn in on July 25. The Indian Prime Minister called this victory a historic moment in the history of India. He tweeted that "India scripts history. At a time when 1.3 billion Indians are marking Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, a daughter of India hailing from a tribal community born in a remote part of eastern India has been elected our President! Congratulations to Smt. Droupadi Murmu Ji on this feat." India scripts history. At a time when 1.3 billion Indians are marking Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, a daughter of India hailing from a tribal community born in a remote part of eastern India has been elected our President! Congratulations to Smt. Droupadi Murmu Ji on this feat. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 21, 2022 × BJP leader J P Nadda, key members of his Cabinet, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated her for the thumping victory. Delhi | Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets and congratulates #DroupadiMurmu on being elected as the new President of the country. BJP national president JP Nadda is also present. Visuals from her residence. pic.twitter.com/5wrcpCXElC — ANI (@ANI) July 21, 2022 × Yaswant Sinha has also conceded defeat. Taking to Twitter, he posted that "I join my fellow citizens in congratulating Smt Droupadi Murmu on her victory in the Presidential Election 2022. India hopes that as the 15th President of the Republic she functions as the Custodian of the Constitution without fear or favour." I join my fellow citizens in congratulating Smt Droupadi Murmu on her victory in the Presidential Election 2022. India hopes that as the 15th President of the Republic she functions as the Custodian of the Constitution without fear or favour. pic.twitter.com/0gG3pdvTor — Yashwant Sinha (@YashwantSinha) July 21, 2022 × On July 18, 771 MPs and 4025 MLAs voted in the presidential election, accounting for more than 99 percent of the electoral college. Droupadi Murmu of the NDA and Yashwant Sinha of the combined opposition contested the election head-to-head. With this thumping victory, Droupadi Murmu has become India's first tribal woman president. Also read | Who is Droupadi Murmu, the tribal leader who is going to become India’s next president? She hasn't made any public statements in the month since being named the NDA's presidential candidate on June 21.Her numbers were boosted by backing from a number of opposition parties, including the BJD, Shiv Sena, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, YSR Congress, BSP, and TDP, and the victory run appeared assured. Some of these organisations had previously backed Yashwant Sinha, the joint opposition candidate. Murmu visited state capitals around the nation to campaign for the presidency and received a warm welcome everywhere he went. Odisha's Rairangpur village, the native place of Droupadi Murmu erupted in celebrations in anticipation of Droupadi Murmu's victory.A large crowd gathered outside BJP headquarters in Delhi earlier this evening to celebrate her victory. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Droupadi Murmu officially declared India's 15th President, first from tribal community

The Centre on Monday told the Supreme Court that induction of women cadets in National Defence Academy (NDA) has been a major policy decision and it needs at least three months for deliberating implications in the long term for induction and deployment of ex-NDA women cadets in the Indian Armed Forces.

It said that in respect of the number of women to be inducted for "NDA-II 2021" and "NDA-I 2022," it is submitted that each course at NDA has 370 vacancies for the three services out of which 208 will get commissioned in the Indian Army, 120 cadets will get commissioned in the Indian Air Force (IAF) and 42 will get commissioned in the Indian Navy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-announces-a-new-ceasefire-to-let-people-evacuate-in-direction-of-their-choice-460092">Russia announces a new ceasefire to let people evacuate in ‘direction of their choice’</a>

The induction of woman cadets in NDA has been a major policy decision. The respondents need sufficient time for deliberating implications in the long term for induction and deployment of ex-NDA women cadets in the Indian Armed Forces. It is, therefore, submitted that the respondents require at least three months additional time towards this , the Centre said in its affidavit.

The affidavit was filed pursuant to the top court's direction on a plea filed by advocate Kush Kalra about the data of the women who have appeared for the NDA-2021 examination and the number of women inducted.

The Centre said, It is submitted that a total of 5,75,854 candidates applied for the exam and 3,57,197 candidates took the examination. A total of 8009 candidates, including 1002 women candidates passed the NDA write examination held during November 2021. The Service Selection Board (SSB) is scheduled with effect from March-April 2022.

Justifying the number of women cadets for all three forces, the Centre said that in respect of the Army, the ratio is to ensure that there is a younger profile and mobility of officer cadre, borne out of its operational role and tasks in difficult areas.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nse-ex-ceo-chitra-ramkrishna-sent-to-7-day-cbi-custody-459969">&nbsp;NSE ex-CEO Chitra Ramkrishna sent to 7-day CBI custody</a>

The total vacancies planned for the Indian Army through NDA are 416 every year that is 208 per course. These vacancies are planned for all arms and services of the Indian Army. Officers commissioned through NDA have a major component of combat Arms and Women officers (WO) are not being inducted in combat arms , the affidavit said.

The Centre said that the average intake in the last four years of women officers in the eight arms and services has been up to 15 per cent of the total cadre strength.

With the present allotment of 10 women candidates per course in NDA, that is 20 per year the women cadre in these arms will witness a growth of 5 per cent from the existing 15 per cent to 20 per cent , the affidavit said.

It said that the Indian Army since has been simultaneously engaged in a large number of operational challenges, especially on Northern Borders which have effected permanent changes in deployment and various other operational facets requiring in-depth analysis and extrapolated impacts in cadre management to include women officers operational employment.

It emphasised that a considered decision has been made to allot 10 vacancies for women cadets in NDA and this major policy decision needs an adaptation period to evaluate the effect and a therefore substantial amount of time is required to review, analyze and assess the net impact of induction of women officers.

With regard to the Navy, the Centre said that despite gender-neutral induction, in the last two decades, women have constituted approximately six per cent of the total strength of Navy's officer cadre (amounting to 20.72 per cent of the total officers in the branches/cadres/specializations open for induction of women).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-assembly-elections-2022-exit-poll-bjp-likely-to-retain-power-in-uttar-pradesh-460009">India Assembly elections 2022: Exit poll - BJP likely to retain power in Uttar Pradesh</a>

Regarding Air Force, the affidavit said IAF is inducting women in all its branches and its sub-streams and they are cleared and being trained for all combat roles associated with these branches.

On January 18, the apex court had asked the Centre to explain why, despite its orders, the intake of women candidates in the National Defence Academy (NDA) for the year 2022 has been restricted to 19, the figure same as last year.

It had asked the Centre to place the figures on record about the total number of candidates including women who have appeared in the NDA examination 2021, for entrance tests for Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC) and for Rashtriya Military School (RMS).

On September 22, last year, in a first, the top court had permitted female candidates to appear for the entrance exam to the NDA which was to be held in November, last year, saying their induction cannot be postponed by one year as sought by the Centre.

The Centre had submitted that a study group has been formed to facilitate the entry of women, and the necessary mechanism to facilitate that can be put in place by May 2022.

On October 7, last year the top court had permitted female candidates to appear in the examination for Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC) in Dehradun, scheduled to be held on December 18, last year, saying the Centre has walked a mile and should walk a step ahead.

The Centre on Monday told the Supreme Court that induction of women cadets in National Defence Academy (NDA) has been a major policy decision and it needs at least three months for deliberating implications in the long term for induction and deployment of ex-NDA women cadets in the Indian Armed Forces.

The Centre on Monday told the Supreme Court that induction of women cadets in National Defence Academy (NDA) has been a major policy decision and it needs at least three months for deliberating implications in the long term for induction and deployment of ex-NDA women cadets in the Indian Armed Forces. It said that in respect of the number of women to be inducted for "NDA-II 2021" and "NDA-I 2022," it is submitted that each course at NDA has 370 vacancies for the three services out of which 208 will get commissioned in the Indian Army, 120 cadets will get commissioned in the Indian Air Force (IAF) and 42 will get commissioned in the Indian Navy. Also read | Russia announces a new ceasefire to let people evacuate in ‘direction of their choice’ The induction of woman cadets in NDA has been a major policy decision. The respondents need sufficient time for deliberating implications in the long term for induction and deployment of ex-NDA women cadets in the Indian Armed Forces. It is, therefore, submitted that the respondents require at least three months additional time towards this , the Centre said in its affidavit. The affidavit was filed pursuant to the top court's direction on a plea filed by advocate Kush Kalra about the data of the women who have appeared for the NDA-2021 examination and the number of women inducted. The Centre said, It is submitted that a total of 5,75,854 candidates applied for the exam and 3,57,197 candidates took the examination. A total of 8009 candidates, including 1002 women candidates passed the NDA write examination held during November 2021. The Service Selection Board (SSB) is scheduled with effect from March-April 2022. Justifying the number of women cadets for all three forces, the Centre said that in respect of the Army, the ratio is to ensure that there is a younger profile and mobility of officer cadre, borne out of its operational role and tasks in difficult areas. Also read | NSE ex-CEO Chitra Ramkrishna sent to 7-day CBI custody The total vacancies planned for the Indian Army through NDA are 416 every year that is 208 per course. These vacancies are planned for all arms and services of the Indian Army. Officers commissioned through NDA have a major component of combat Arms and Women officers (WO) are not being inducted in combat arms , the affidavit said. The Centre said that the average intake in the last four years of women officers in the eight arms and services has been up to 15 per cent of the total cadre strength. With the present allotment of 10 women candidates per course in NDA, that is 20 per year the women cadre in these arms will witness a growth of 5 per cent from the existing 15 per cent to 20 per cent , the affidavit said. It said that the Indian Army since has been simultaneously engaged in a large number of operational challenges, especially on Northern Borders which have effected permanent changes in deployment and various other operational facets requiring in-depth analysis and extrapolated impacts in cadre management to include women officers operational employment. It emphasised that a considered decision has been made to allot 10 vacancies for women cadets in NDA and this major policy decision needs an adaptation period to evaluate the effect and a therefore substantial amount of time is required to review, analyze and assess the net impact of induction of women officers. With regard to the Navy, the Centre said that despite gender-neutral induction, in the last two decades, women have constituted approximately six per cent of the total strength of Navy's officer cadre (amounting to 20.72 per cent of the total officers in the branches/cadres/specializations open for induction of women). Also read | India Assembly elections 2022: Exit poll - BJP likely to retain power in Uttar Pradesh Regarding Air Force, the affidavit said IAF is inducting women in all its branches and its sub-streams and they are cleared and being trained for all combat roles associated with these branches. On January 18, the apex court had asked the Centre to explain why, despite its orders, the intake of women candidates in the National Defence Academy (NDA) for the year 2022 has been restricted to 19, the figure same as last year. It had asked the Centre to place the figures on record about the total number of candidates including women who have appeared in the NDA examination 2021, for entrance tests for Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC) and for Rashtriya Military School (RMS). On September 22, last year, in a first, the top court had permitted female candidates to appear for the entrance exam to the NDA which was to be held in November, last year, saying their induction cannot be postponed by one year as sought by the Centre. The Centre had submitted that a study group has been formed to facilitate the entry of women, and the necessary mechanism to facilitate that can be put in place by May 2022. On October 7, last year the top court had permitted female candidates to appear in the examination for Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC) in Dehradun, scheduled to be held on December 18, last year, saying the Centre has walked a mile and should walk a step ahead.

Induction of women cadets in NDA major policy decision, need time to study impact: Centre to SC

To land an aircraft onto the deck of a moving aircraft carrier is a highly acclaimed feat in military aviation, doing so while flying a damaged aircraft is almost fictional.

Going behind enemy lines is rare, but imagine laying ambushes in enemy territory, despite being outnumbered. India’s war veterans did these and many such feats of daredevilry to liberate Bangladesh(then East Pakistan).

NDA coursemates and Vir Chakra awardees Col A. Krishnaswami and Rear Admiral Ramsagar recalled their experience of being in the thick of action in the 1971 war and their acts of gallantry.

They were in conversation with Lt. Gen. A.Arun, General-Officer-in-Command(GOC) Dakshin Bharat Area at a special event hosted at Madras Management Association, Chennai. The event was hosted as a part of the Swarnim Vijay Varsh celebrations.

<img alt="1971 Bangladesh war veterans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2a914ad9-028c-4dff-8c3d-2621dbdf025f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/AWAC1.jpg" />

Both the officers who were commissioned into the forces in 1958 relived their life and times in the run-up to the war. Notably, three generations of Col Krishnaswami’s family are in the forces and in the case of Rear Admiral Ramsagar, he had many of his kin serving in the forces prior to his own joining. As is the case in the forces, the families did not know&nbsp;when or whether the men went to war or where they were posted.&nbsp;

Col Krishnaswami recalls that he had missed the opportunity to fight in the 1962 and 1965 wars, but had accumulated enough experience over the years&nbsp;for the operation he conducted in 1971.

Posted in India’s north-east, he volunteered to lead his troops into the then East Pakistan and conducted an ambush. But this was no ordinary one - it involved trekking undetected for dozens of kilometres through&nbsp;rice fields, slush&nbsp;forests and river crossings in neck-deep water, all while protecting their ammo and weapons from getting soaked. Their target was an ammo-loaded vehicle&nbsp;exiting an ordnance factory in enemy territory.&nbsp;

The Colonel and his 80 men were tasked with delaying the vehicle movement, encircling and neutralising them. By laying traps to block the convoys (some of which were led by tanks), the Indian infantry men aided by artillery support killed over 117 Pakistani troops and injured many others.

Two Indian army men were killed in action, besides the two who were injured in this operation. It is significant that the Indian troops had taken the enemy by surprise, despite having infiltrated deep behind enemy lines.&nbsp;

When a Pakistani Army officer surrendered before Col Krishnaswami, he reportedly said that they did not have the equipment to bury their fallen troops. Krishnaswami retorted that it was not about the equipment, but about the Pakistanis’ lack of willingness to dig a burial pit.

He then ordered his men to dig the graves for Pakistani troops, as the Pakistani Major stood there in shock and awe. On seeing the graciousness and&nbsp;professionalism displayed by the&nbsp;Indian troops in digging graves for their fallen enemies, the Pakistani Major reportedly exclaimed in praise “If we had soldiers and officers like these, we would never have lost a war”.

He lauded the immense support provided by the Air Force in creating an atmosphere of air Superiority for 13 days, where India’s Air Force was used in a manner that rendered the enemy Air Force ineffectual.

The fledgling Indian Air Force flew 6,000 sorties in 13 days&nbsp;as part of combat and non-combat missions. All of this&nbsp;must be seen in the context of the 1971 scenario where there were multiple logistical, technological and hardware related challenges(that are not as prevalent in the present day scenario).&nbsp;

A senior pilot of the Alize Squadron, that operated from aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, Rear Admiral Ramsagar recalls how Pakistan started the war when the Vikrant was non-operational&nbsp;in the dry dock for service. He touched&nbsp;upon the Navy’s then leadership that took tough and astute decisions such as moving the Vikrant from Bombay in India’s West(within Pak's reach)&nbsp;to Vishakapatnam in the east(within the reach of only a single Pak submarine).&nbsp;

While the partially-serviced carrier had crossed over to the east coast, the Naval aviator recalled having undertaken non-catapult assisted take-offs and also making landings during such tests.

When the carrier was stationed off Vishakapatnam, a Pakistani submarine PNS Ghazi had made it into the harbour and started laying mines. However, while the submarine did so, it is said that it exploded due to a detonation of one of the mines it had laid, following which an INS Rajput also pounded it with explosives and divers recovered the Ghazi nameplate.&nbsp;

When the aircraft carrier was moved closer to east Pakistan, day time bombings runs were done by the carrier-based Hawk planes, whereas night missions were by the Alize aircraft.

The Navy planes carried out extensive attacks on Dhaka, Chittagong and Cox’s Bazaar during the night and day, thanks to the Indian Air Force&nbsp;which had quelled all resistance from the air and ground.

It was during the fourth day of the war that Rear Admiral Ramsagar flew&nbsp;a reconnaissance sortie into western Bangladesh and noticed large vessels that were meant to ferry Pakistani troops back.

After raining his six rockets onto the six vessels(which were too large to be significantly damaged), he flew back to the carrier and reported his sighting, following which they went on another bombing run, which led to the ships showing white flags in an act of surrender.

However, on the tenth&nbsp;day of the war, while flying over the western region of East Pakistan, he made a daring low-flying attack on Pakistani vessels that were being towed.

While his bombs missed the narrow vessels, only a depth charge fell on one vessel. Fearing the explosion of the charge, thousands of Pakistani troops jumped into the water&nbsp;fearing for their lives.

However, the Alize was hit by enemy gunboat fire at close-range&nbsp;of which eight rounds pierced and exited the aircraft. The hits caused a hydraulics failure, wing and engine fire onboard on his plane and&nbsp;some shots even missed his feet by a whisker.

With only his battery-powered communications set and a compass, he and his crew flew 90miles on a damaged aircraft to make a successful night landing on the INS Vikrant.

Instead of performing a net-landing (as advised), he performed a normal landing, in order to save his aircraft from total damage.&nbsp;

Summing up the gallantry displayed by the forces and the events of the war, Lt Gen Arun said that it displayed the ability to take risks, mitigate risks and nullify their effects.

He also touched upon the importance of camaraderie, honouring the fallen, while lauding the forces’ perseverance, courage and tenacity. He referred to the Indian military leaders’ foresight, planning and the ability to think through information overload and high-pressure situations and highlighted the importance of such skills among the corporate leaders and management.

Among those honoured at the event were Veer Naris(wives of fallen soldiers).&nbsp;

To land an aircraft onto the deck of a moving aircraft carrier is a highly acclaimed feat in military aviation, doing so while flying a damaged aircraft is almost fictional.

To land an aircraft onto the deck of a moving aircraft carrier is a highly acclaimed feat in military aviation, doing so while flying a damaged aircraft is almost fictional. Going behind enemy lines is rare, but imagine laying ambushes in enemy territory, despite being outnumbered. India’s war veterans did these and many such feats of daredevilry to liberate Bangladesh(then East Pakistan). NDA coursemates and Vir Chakra awardees Col A. Krishnaswami and Rear Admiral Ramsagar recalled their experience of being in the thick of action in the 1971 war and their acts of gallantry. They were in conversation with Lt. Gen. A.Arun, General-Officer-in-Command(GOC) Dakshin Bharat Area at a special event hosted at Madras Management Association, Chennai. The event was hosted as a part of the Swarnim Vijay Varsh celebrations. Both the officers who were commissioned into the forces in 1958 relived their life and times in the run-up to the war. Notably, three generations of Col Krishnaswami’s family are in the forces and in the case of Rear Admiral Ramsagar, he had many of his kin serving in the forces prior to his own joining. As is the case in the forces, the families did not know when or whether the men went to war or where they were posted. Col Krishnaswami recalls that he had missed the opportunity to fight in the 1962 and 1965 wars, but had accumulated enough experience over the years for the operation he conducted in 1971. Posted in India’s north-east, he volunteered to lead his troops into the then East Pakistan and conducted an ambush. But this was no ordinary one - it involved trekking undetected for dozens of kilometres through rice fields, slush forests and river crossings in neck-deep water, all while protecting their ammo and weapons from getting soaked. Their target was an ammo-loaded vehicle exiting an ordnance factory in enemy territory. The Colonel and his 80 men were tasked with delaying the vehicle movement, encircling and neutralising them. By laying traps to block the convoys (some of which were led by tanks), the Indian infantry men aided by artillery support killed over 117 Pakistani troops and injured many others. Two Indian army men were killed in action, besides the two who were injured in this operation. It is significant that the Indian troops had taken the enemy by surprise, despite having infiltrated deep behind enemy lines. When a Pakistani Army officer surrendered before Col Krishnaswami, he reportedly said that they did not have the equipment to bury their fallen troops. Krishnaswami retorted that it was not about the equipment, but about the Pakistanis’ lack of willingness to dig a burial pit. He then ordered his men to dig the graves for Pakistani troops, as the Pakistani Major stood there in shock and awe. On seeing the graciousness and professionalism displayed by the Indian troops in digging graves for their fallen enemies, the Pakistani Major reportedly exclaimed in praise “If we had soldiers and officers like these, we would never have lost a war”. He lauded the immense support provided by the Air Force in creating an atmosphere of air Superiority for 13 days, where India’s Air Force was used in a manner that rendered the enemy Air Force ineffectual. The fledgling Indian Air Force flew 6,000 sorties in 13 days as part of combat and non-combat missions. All of this must be seen in the context of the 1971 scenario where there were multiple logistical, technological and hardware related challenges(that are not as prevalent in the present day scenario). A senior pilot of the Alize Squadron, that operated from aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, Rear Admiral Ramsagar recalls how Pakistan started the war when the Vikrant was non-operational in the dry dock for service. He touched upon the Navy’s then leadership that took tough and astute decisions such as moving the Vikrant from Bombay in India’s West(within Pak's reach) to Vishakapatnam in the east(within the reach of only a single Pak submarine). While the partially-serviced carrier had crossed over to the east coast, the Naval aviator recalled having undertaken non-catapult assisted take-offs and also making landings during such tests. When the carrier was stationed off Vishakapatnam, a Pakistani submarine PNS Ghazi had made it into the harbour and started laying mines. However, while the submarine did so, it is said that it exploded due to a detonation of one of the mines it had laid, following which an INS Rajput also pounded it with explosives and divers recovered the Ghazi nameplate. When the aircraft carrier was moved closer to east Pakistan, day time bombings runs were done by the carrier-based Hawk planes, whereas night missions were by the Alize aircraft. The Navy planes carried out extensive attacks on Dhaka, Chittagong and Cox’s Bazaar during the night and day, thanks to the Indian Air Force which had quelled all resistance from the air and ground. It was during the fourth day of the war that Rear Admiral Ramsagar flew a reconnaissance sortie into western Bangladesh and noticed large vessels that were meant to ferry Pakistani troops back. After raining his six rockets onto the six vessels(which were too large to be significantly damaged), he flew back to the carrier and reported his sighting, following which they went on another bombing run, which led to the ships showing white flags in an act of surrender. However, on the tenth day of the war, while flying over the western region of East Pakistan, he made a daring low-flying attack on Pakistani vessels that were being towed. While his bombs missed the narrow vessels, only a depth charge fell on one vessel. Fearing the explosion of the charge, thousands of Pakistani troops jumped into the water fearing for their lives. However, the Alize was hit by enemy gunboat fire at close-range of which eight rounds pierced and exited the aircraft. The hits caused a hydraulics failure, wing and engine fire onboard on his plane and some shots even missed his feet by a whisker. With only his battery-powered communications set and a compass, he and his crew flew 90miles on a damaged aircraft to make a successful night landing on the INS Vikrant. Instead of performing a net-landing (as advised), he performed a normal landing, in order to save his aircraft from total damage. Summing up the gallantry displayed by the forces and the events of the war, Lt Gen Arun said that it displayed the ability to take risks, mitigate risks and nullify their effects. He also touched upon the importance of camaraderie, honouring the fallen, while lauding the forces’ perseverance, courage and tenacity. He referred to the Indian military leaders’ foresight, planning and the ability to think through information overload and high-pressure situations and highlighted the importance of such skills among the corporate leaders and management. Among those honoured at the event were Veer Naris(wives of fallen soldiers).

1971 India-Pak war: Veterans recall carrier-landing with damaged plane, fighting behind enemy lines

The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) obtained the majority in Bihar assembly elections with BJP putting up a winning performance.

The BJP emerged victorious on as many as 74 seats while the JD (U) managed to win on 43 seats. Smaller allies, the HAM and the VIP won four seats each.

The Lok Janshakti Party, which had quit the NDA in the state in the run-up to the October-November elections, ended up with one seat.

Its defeat notwithstanding, the RJD, whose campaign Tejashwi Yadav, the younger son and heir to party supremo Lalu Prasad helmed, emerged as the single largest party with 75 seats.

Despite the slump in numbers, Kumar, who was declared the NDA's chief ministerial candidate by the BJP brass, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief J P Nadda, is set to take over the reins of the government.

Much of Kumar's plight can be blamed on the damage Chirag Paswan's LJP inflicted on his JD(U). Down in the dumps with just one MLA, the party spoiled the JD(U)'s chances in at least 30 seats.

JD(U) spokesperson K C Tyagi told PTI in New Delhi that a "sinister" campaign was run against Nitish Kumar as part of a "conspiracy".

"Apne bhi shamil the aur begane bhi (Our own also harmed us along with the outsiders)," he said, without taking any names.

He, however, expressed confidence that Kumar will become the chief minister again, noting that top BJP leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have made it clear that he will head the government if the ruling NDA retains power.

Bihar BJP president Sanjay Jaiswal voiced similar views in Patna when he said in Patna "the issue has been cleared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief J P Nadda much before the elections".

Apart from BJP's 74 seats and JD(U)'s 43, the ruling alliance partners HAM and Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) won four seats each.

The drastic fall in the number of JD (U) MLAs, however, will likely make the BJP, which hitherto played a second fiddle to Kumar, more assertive, and it may insist on a larger share in the ministerial pie and greater say in governance.

Apart from Kumar's creditable performance as an administrator, the multiple claimants to Muslim votes, including the Grand Democratic Secular Front (GDSF) comprising Asaduddin Owaisi's AIMIM, BSP and Upendra Kushwaha's RLSP worked in NDA's favour and scuppered the Mahagathbandhan's chances. Muslim and Yadav voters have for long formed the bedrock of the RJD's support base.

Owaisi's AIMIM emerged as a surprise package of the election, winning five seats. The party had gained a foothold winning a seat in a by-election in Bihar earlier, but made significant inroads into the Seemanchanchal region which has a large presence of Muslim voters. Its ally BSP also clinched one seat.

Kumar, who has a clean image and is considered incorruptible, has been credited with ridding the state of the "jungle raj", as the Lalu-Rabri government of 15 years preceding 2005 is often described by its critics.

The JD(U) leader also earned praise for his impetus on infrastructure development and improving health care system and education.

Besides, Modi's enduring charisma not only powered the alliance's victory but also helped the BJP to pre-eminent position in the NDA in Bihar for the first time and cut his former bete noire Nitish Kumar, once considered a secular alternative to him, to size.

The election also saw the coming of age of Tejashwi Yadav, who came across as an indefatigable leader after RJD's unprecedented drubbing in the Lok Sabha polls last year when it failed to open its account.

The NDA had clinched all but one of the 40 seats in the state, leaving the young leader in torpor and his party demoralised. Tejashwi's ability to lead the party in the absence of his charismatic father and party supremo Lalu Prasad, who had landed in jail after conviction in fodder scam cases, was called into question.

However, after the assembly elections were announced, he steeled himself for the struggle ahead and almost single handedly brought the five party Grand Alliance surprisingly close to power in a fight where an army of battle hardened veterans were arrayed against him.

A major upshot of the gruelling electoral tussle between the two alliances was the resurgence of Left, which aligned with the RJD-Congress combine after being pushed to the margins in the post-Mandal era politics of Bihar.

The biggest gainer was the CPI-ML, which clinched 12 seats, followed by the CPI and CPI-M (two each). Barring the CPI-ML, which had three seats in the outgoing assembly, none of the Left parties had a presence in the House.

Brothers Tejashwi Yadav and Tej Pratap won the Raghopur and Hasanpur seats with impressive margins of 38,174 and 21,139 votes respectively.

Prominent losers from the RJD included Abdul Bari Siddiqui, a former state party chief, and Lalu Prasad's Man Friday Bhola Yadav who lost from Keoti and Hayaghat seats in Darbhanga respectively.

Senior Bihar minister Vijendra Prasad Yadav of JD(U) won from Supual, and Niraj Singh Babloo of the BJP, a cousin of actor Sushant Singh Rajput, whose mysterious death became an election issue, retained the Chhatapur seat.

State assembly speaker Vijay Kumar Chaudhary of the JD(U) was among the victors.

Ace former shooter and Commonwealth gold medalist Shreyasi Singh of BJP won the Jamui seat by over 41,000 votes, but veteran socialist leader Sharad Yadav's daughter Subhashini lost in Bihariganj.

HAM president Jitan Ram Manjhi defeated former state assembly speaker Uday Narayan Chaudhary in Imamganj of Gaya district.

(With inputs from agencies)

The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) obtained the majority in Bihar assembly elections with BJP putting up a winning performance. The BJP emerged victorious on as many as 74 seats while the JD (U) managed to win on 43 seats.

The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) obtained the majority in Bihar assembly elections with BJP putting up a winning performance. The BJP emerged victorious on as many as 74 seats while the JD (U) managed to win on 43 seats. Smaller allies, the HAM and the VIP won four seats each. The Lok Janshakti Party, which had quit the NDA in the state in the run-up to the October-November elections, ended up with one seat. Its defeat notwithstanding, the RJD, whose campaign Tejashwi Yadav, the younger son and heir to party supremo Lalu Prasad helmed, emerged as the single largest party with 75 seats. Despite the slump in numbers, Kumar, who was declared the NDA's chief ministerial candidate by the BJP brass, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief J P Nadda, is set to take over the reins of the government. Much of Kumar's plight can be blamed on the damage Chirag Paswan's LJP inflicted on his JD(U). Down in the dumps with just one MLA, the party spoiled the JD(U)'s chances in at least 30 seats. JD(U) spokesperson K C Tyagi told PTI in New Delhi that a "sinister" campaign was run against Nitish Kumar as part of a "conspiracy". "Apne bhi shamil the aur begane bhi (Our own also harmed us along with the outsiders)," he said, without taking any names. He, however, expressed confidence that Kumar will become the chief minister again, noting that top BJP leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have made it clear that he will head the government if the ruling NDA retains power. Bihar BJP president Sanjay Jaiswal voiced similar views in Patna when he said in Patna "the issue has been cleared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief J P Nadda much before the elections". Apart from BJP's 74 seats and JD(U)'s 43, the ruling alliance partners HAM and Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) won four seats each. The drastic fall in the number of JD (U) MLAs, however, will likely make the BJP, which hitherto played a second fiddle to Kumar, more assertive, and it may insist on a larger share in the ministerial pie and greater say in governance. Apart from Kumar's creditable performance as an administrator, the multiple claimants to Muslim votes, including the Grand Democratic Secular Front (GDSF) comprising Asaduddin Owaisi's AIMIM, BSP and Upendra Kushwaha's RLSP worked in NDA's favour and scuppered the Mahagathbandhan's chances. Muslim and Yadav voters have for long formed the bedrock of the RJD's support base. Owaisi's AIMIM emerged as a surprise package of the election, winning five seats. The party had gained a foothold winning a seat in a by-election in Bihar earlier, but made significant inroads into the Seemanchanchal region which has a large presence of Muslim voters. Its ally BSP also clinched one seat. Kumar, who has a clean image and is considered incorruptible, has been credited with ridding the state of the "jungle raj", as the Lalu-Rabri government of 15 years preceding 2005 is often described by its critics. The JD(U) leader also earned praise for his impetus on infrastructure development and improving health care system and education. Besides, Modi's enduring charisma not only powered the alliance's victory but also helped the BJP to pre-eminent position in the NDA in Bihar for the first time and cut his former bete noire Nitish Kumar, once considered a secular alternative to him, to size. The election also saw the coming of age of Tejashwi Yadav, who came across as an indefatigable leader after RJD's unprecedented drubbing in the Lok Sabha polls last year when it failed to open its account. The NDA had clinched all but one of the 40 seats in the state, leaving the young leader in torpor and his party demoralised. Tejashwi's ability to lead the party in the absence of his charismatic father and party supremo Lalu Prasad, who had landed in jail after conviction in fodder scam cases, was called into question. However, after the assembly elections were announced, he steeled himself for the struggle ahead and almost single handedly brought the five party Grand Alliance surprisingly close to power in a fight where an army of battle hardened veterans were arrayed against him. A major upshot of the gruelling electoral tussle between the two alliances was the resurgence of Left, which aligned with the RJD-Congress combine after being pushed to the margins in the post-Mandal era politics of Bihar. The biggest gainer was the CPI-ML, which clinched 12 seats, followed by the CPI and CPI-M (two each). Barring the CPI-ML, which had three seats in the outgoing assembly, none of the Left parties had a presence in the House. Brothers Tejashwi Yadav and Tej Pratap won the Raghopur and Hasanpur seats with impressive margins of 38,174 and 21,139 votes respectively. Prominent losers from the RJD included Abdul Bari Siddiqui, a former state party chief, and Lalu Prasad's Man Friday Bhola Yadav who lost from Keoti and Hayaghat seats in Darbhanga respectively. Senior Bihar minister Vijendra Prasad Yadav of JD(U) won from Supual, and Niraj Singh Babloo of the BJP, a cousin of actor Sushant Singh Rajput, whose mysterious death became an election issue, retained the Chhatapur seat. State assembly speaker Vijay Kumar Chaudhary of the JD(U) was among the victors. Ace former shooter and Commonwealth gold medalist Shreyasi Singh of BJP won the Jamui seat by over 41,000 votes, but veteran socialist leader Sharad Yadav's daughter Subhashini lost in Bihariganj. HAM president Jitan Ram Manjhi defeated former state assembly speaker Uday Narayan Chaudhary in Imamganj of Gaya district. (With inputs from agencies)

Bihar election results 2020: NDA gets absolute majority with 125 seats, Mahagathbandhan settles with 110 seats

Chirag Paswan, the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief on Wednesday said that people of Bihar have reposed their faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi and credited him with the BJP's victory in the Assembly polls.

"People of Bihar have reposed faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The result shows that people are excited about the BJP. This is PM Modi's victory," Paswan tweeted in Hindi.

Nitish Kumar- led NDA was back in power in Bihar on Wednesday with a slender majority.

The ruling coalition won 125 seats in the 243-member state assembly against 110 clinched by the opposition Grand Alliance to pave the way for a fourth successive term for Kumar in office but with diminished clout following a debilitating slide in the number of JD(U) lawmakers that came down to 43 from 71 in 2015.

Kumar was then a partner in the Grand Alliance which included Lalu Prasad's RJD and the Congress.

Its defeat notwithstanding, the RJD, whose campaign Tejashwi Yadav, the younger son and heir to party supremo Lalu Prasad helmed, emerged as the single largest party with 75 seats. The BJP, which led the table for several hours during the counting that dragged on for over 16 hours, finished second with a tally of 74 seats.

Despite the slump in numbers, Kumar, who was declared the NDA's chief ministerial candidate by the BJP brass, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief J P Nadda, is set to take over the reins of the government.

Much of Kumar's plight can be blamed on the damage Chirag Paswan's LJP inflicted on his JD(U). Down in the dumps with just one MLA, the party spoiled the JD(U)'s chances in at least 30 seats.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chirag Paswan, the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief on Wednesday said that people of Bihar have reposed their faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi and credited him with the BJP's victory in the Assembly polls.

Chirag Paswan, the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief on Wednesday said that people of Bihar have reposed their faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi and credited him with the BJP's victory in the Assembly polls. "People of Bihar have reposed faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The result shows that people are excited about the BJP. This is PM Modi's victory," Paswan tweeted in Hindi. Nitish Kumar- led NDA was back in power in Bihar on Wednesday with a slender majority. The ruling coalition won 125 seats in the 243-member state assembly against 110 clinched by the opposition Grand Alliance to pave the way for a fourth successive term for Kumar in office but with diminished clout following a debilitating slide in the number of JD(U) lawmakers that came down to 43 from 71 in 2015. Kumar was then a partner in the Grand Alliance which included Lalu Prasad's RJD and the Congress. Its defeat notwithstanding, the RJD, whose campaign Tejashwi Yadav, the younger son and heir to party supremo Lalu Prasad helmed, emerged as the single largest party with 75 seats. The BJP, which led the table for several hours during the counting that dragged on for over 16 hours, finished second with a tally of 74 seats. Despite the slump in numbers, Kumar, who was declared the NDA's chief ministerial candidate by the BJP brass, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief J P Nadda, is set to take over the reins of the government. Much of Kumar's plight can be blamed on the damage Chirag Paswan's LJP inflicted on his JD(U). Down in the dumps with just one MLA, the party spoiled the JD(U)'s chances in at least 30 seats. (With inputs from agencies)

Chirag Paswan credits Bihar polls victory to PM Narendra Modi

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