Amid the ongoing political crisis in Pakistan, Imran Khan hinted at early polls. For more on this, WION is joined by Anas Mallick from Pakistan.

Imran Khan: Those trying to topple the government are scared that the public will support me

Amid the ongoing political crisis in Pakistan, Imran Khan hinted at early polls. For more on this, WION is joined by Reham Khan, senior journalist, Pakistan.

Will Imran Khan survive Sunday vote? Watch Reham Khan's take on current political situation in Pak

As a no-confidence motion is going to be held in the National Assembly on Sunday, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has claimed his "life is in danger" on Friday, an ANI report citing local media said. &nbsp;

In an interview with ARY News, Khan said, "Let me inform my nation that my life is at risk too, they have also planned for my character assassination. Not only myself but my wife too." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/official-protest-lodged-with-us-embassy-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-tells-pakistani-media-467513">Official protest lodged with US embassy, Imran Khan tells Pakistani media</a>

The Opposition is playing in foreign hands, said the PM.&nbsp;He is looking to save his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government in the no-confidence vote. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Khan said that the "establishment" has given him three options, including the no-confidence motion, resignation from post, or fresh elections, ARY News reported. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Final countdown for Pak PM: Imran Khan's public outcry against opposition

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/final-countdown-for-pak-pm-imran-khans-public-outcry-against-opposition-467558/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Talking about the options presented by the Opposition to him, the PM said that he does not think he should talk to people, such as Opposition leader Shehbaz Sharif. &nbsp;

"If we survive (the no-confidence vote), we cannot of course work with these turncoats (who left PTI to join opposition), early elections are the best option, I will urge my nation to give me simple majority so that I won't have to do compromises," Khan said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

As a no-confidence motion is going to be held in the National Assembly on Sunday, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has claimed his "life is in danger" on Friday, an ANI report citing local media said.

As a no-confidence motion is going to be held in the National Assembly on Sunday, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has claimed his "life is in danger" on Friday, an ANI report citing local media said. In an interview with ARY News, Khan said, "Let me inform my nation that my life is at risk too, they have also planned for my character assassination. Not only myself but my wife too." Also Read: Official protest lodged with US embassy, Imran Khan tells Pakistani media The Opposition is playing in foreign hands, said the PM. He is looking to save his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government in the no-confidence vote. Khan said that the "establishment" has given him three options, including the no-confidence motion, resignation from post, or fresh elections, ARY News reported. Watch: Final countdown for Pak PM: Imran Khan's public outcry against opposition × Talking about the options presented by the Opposition to him, the PM said that he does not think he should talk to people, such as Opposition leader Shehbaz Sharif. "If we survive (the no-confidence vote), we cannot of course work with these turncoats (who left PTI to join opposition), early elections are the best option, I will urge my nation to give me simple majority so that I won't have to do compromises," Khan said. (With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of no-confidence motion, Pak PM Imran Khan claims his life is in danger  

Pakistan PM Imran Khan can lose his seat any day now amid the ongoing political unrest. Khan blamed foreign conspiracy that has led to this situation. Meanwhile, the US denied meddling in Pakistan's politics.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan sends demarche to US embassy amid political crisis

Amid a political crisis in Pakistan, a senior leader in the country claimed that Prime Minister Imran Khan's life is in danger. While speaking to a Pakistani media outlet, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) stalwart Faisal Vawda said that a conspiracy has been hatched to assassinate PM Khan.&nbsp;

Pakistan is going through political turmoil at the moment as the country's opposition political parties have introduced a no-confidence vote in parliament seeking the ouster of Imran Khan, accusing him of economic mismanagement.&nbsp;

Faisal Vawda said that PM Imran Khan has been advised to use a bulletproof shield while addressing the public gatherings as there was a plan to assassinate the leader but the PM said he will leave this world at the time fixed by Almighty Allah, India-based&nbsp;news agency ANI reported quoting ARY News' "Off the Record" programme.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-is-no-zulfikar-ali-bhutto-ex-wife-reham-khan-slams-beleaguered-pak-pm-466987">Imran Khan is no Zulfikar Ali Bhutto: Senior journalist Reham Khan slams beleaguered Pak PM</a>

During his conversation with the channel, the PTI leader also affirmed Khan's position amid the political chaos in the country. He said that the PM is brave and will not let the nation bow down before anyone.&nbsp;

Vawda further cleared the air on Khan's stance on foreign policy as he said that now Pakistan will not become part of "anyone's war", adding that that airbases of the country will not be given to anyone to "attack our neighbouring countries".&nbsp;

The cricketer-turned-politician had said earlier said that he will share the 'foreign-funded conspiracy' letter with senior journalists and ally party members.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/no-confidence-vote-mqm-p-breaks-alliance-with-pti-bilawal-attacks-pm-imran-466946">No-confidence vote: MQM-P breaks alliance with PTI; Bilawal attacks PM Imran</a>

"The letter will reveal the elements who are conspiring against the country from abroad," he said at the launch of e-passport services in Islamabad and added, "suspicions were cast that the government is doing all this to save itself."&nbsp;

"The letter clearly shows how big conspiracy is against the government and it is far bigger conspiracy than what I am telling to you," he added.&nbsp;

In case it happens, Khan's ouster is likely to bring another round of instability to the nuclear-armed country. In Pakistan, the military has a long record of intervening in politics.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas | Premiership: A poisoned chalice in Pakistan

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-premiership-a-poisoned-chalice-in-pakistan-467007/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid a political crisis in Pakistan, a senior leader in the country claimed that Prime Minister Imran Khan's life is in danger. While speaking to a Pakistani media outlet, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) stalwart Faisal Vawda said that a conspiracy has been hatched to assassinate PM Khan.

Amid a political crisis in Pakistan, a senior leader in the country claimed that Prime Minister Imran Khan's life is in danger. While speaking to a Pakistani media outlet, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) stalwart Faisal Vawda said that a conspiracy has been hatched to assassinate PM Khan. Pakistan is going through political turmoil at the moment as the country's opposition political parties have introduced a no-confidence vote in parliament seeking the ouster of Imran Khan, accusing him of economic mismanagement. Faisal Vawda said that PM Imran Khan has been advised to use a bulletproof shield while addressing the public gatherings as there was a plan to assassinate the leader but the PM said he will leave this world at the time fixed by Almighty Allah, India-based news agency ANI reported quoting ARY News' "Off the Record" programme. ALSO READ | Imran Khan is no Zulfikar Ali Bhutto: Senior journalist Reham Khan slams beleaguered Pak PM During his conversation with the channel, the PTI leader also affirmed Khan's position amid the political chaos in the country. He said that the PM is brave and will not let the nation bow down before anyone. Vawda further cleared the air on Khan's stance on foreign policy as he said that now Pakistan will not become part of "anyone's war", adding that that airbases of the country will not be given to anyone to "attack our neighbouring countries". The cricketer-turned-politician had said earlier said that he will share the 'foreign-funded conspiracy' letter with senior journalists and ally party members. ALSO READ | No-confidence vote: MQM-P breaks alliance with PTI; Bilawal attacks PM Imran "The letter will reveal the elements who are conspiring against the country from abroad," he said at the launch of e-passport services in Islamabad and added, "suspicions were cast that the government is doing all this to save itself." "The letter clearly shows how big conspiracy is against the government and it is far bigger conspiracy than what I am telling to you," he added. In case it happens, Khan's ouster is likely to bring another round of instability to the nuclear-armed country. In Pakistan, the military has a long record of intervening in politics. WATCH | Gravitas | Premiership: A poisoned chalice in Pakistan × (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan PM Imran Khan's life in danger as there was a plot to assassinate him, claims PTI leader

Amid the ongoing political crisis in Pakistan and PM Imran Khan facing a no-confidence motion in the parliament, Imran Khan's party issued a whip to all its lawmakers.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan's party issues a whip to all its lawmakers amid a political crisis

Trouble is mounting for Pakistan PM Imran Khan's government ahead of the no-confidence vote as three federal ministers have stepped down so far.

Trouble mounts for Pakistan PM Imran Khan's government ahead of the no-confidence vote

Amid the ongoing political crisis in Pakistan and PM Imran Khan facing a no-confidence motion in the parliament. Imran Khan says that he is ready to make 'conspiracy letter' public.

Pakistan power tussle: PM Imran Khan says he is ready to make 'conspiracy letter' public

Pakistan PM Imran Khan pulls all the stops to retain power amid a political crisis

US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that he may invite North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un to the White House if the Singapore summit goes well.

His remarks came after his meet with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe where the two leaders discussed the forthcoming Singapore summit.

Answering a question if he would invite the North Korean leader to White House or Mar-a-lago, Trump said: "Maybe we'll start with the White House".

He, however, clarified that he would not hesitate in walking out of the meeting if his goals were not achieved.

He said, "I am totally prepared to walk. It could happen. Maybe it won't be necessary. I hope it won't be necessary to walk, because I really believe that Kim Jong-un wants to do something that is going to be great for his people, and also great for his family, and great for himself".

"I am totally prepared to walk away. I did it once before. You have to be able to walk away. If you're not going to be able to walk away -- we didn't walk away from the horrible Iran deal that was signed, and if you look at what's happened, since I signed that deal, Iran and in all fairness, I say it with great respect for the people of Iran, but Iran is acting a lot differently. They're no longer looking so much to the Mediterranean", Trump added.

After some back and forth, the highly anticipated meeting between Donald Trump and Kim Jong-Un is scheduled for June 12.

The two leaders were hurling insults and threats of war with each other for a very long time.&nbsp;

The rhetoric began to cool during the Winter Olympics in South Korea, and by mid-March, the two sides decided to a face-to-face.

(With input from Agencies)

US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that he may invite North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un to the White House if the Singapore summit goes well. His remarks came after his meet with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe where the two leaders discussed the forthcoming Singapore summit.

US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that he may invite North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un to the White House if the Singapore summit goes well. His remarks came after his meet with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe where the two leaders discussed the forthcoming Singapore summit. Answering a question if he would invite the North Korean leader to White House or Mar-a-lago, Trump said: "Maybe we'll start with the White House". He, however, clarified that he would not hesitate in walking out of the meeting if his goals were not achieved. He said, "I am totally prepared to walk. It could happen. Maybe it won't be necessary. I hope it won't be necessary to walk, because I really believe that Kim Jong-un wants to do something that is going to be great for his people, and also great for his family, and great for himself". "I am totally prepared to walk away. I did it once before. You have to be able to walk away. If you're not going to be able to walk away -- we didn't walk away from the horrible Iran deal that was signed, and if you look at what's happened, since I signed that deal, Iran and in all fairness, I say it with great respect for the people of Iran, but Iran is acting a lot differently. They're no longer looking so much to the Mediterranean", Trump added. After some back and forth, the highly anticipated meeting between Donald Trump and Kim Jong-Un is scheduled for June 12. The two leaders were hurling insults and threats of war with each other for a very long time. The rhetoric began to cool during the Winter Olympics in South Korea, and by mid-March, the two sides decided to a face-to-face. (With input from Agencies)

Pakistan: Punjab CM Usman Buzdar resigns ahead of no-confidence motion

The opposition in Pakistan held a mega rally against PM Imran Khan amid a political crisis. Imran Khan is facing a no-confidence motion in the parliament.

Thousands join the protest in Islamabad: 'Gathered to bid farewell to Imran Khan'

Pakistan PM Imran Khan faces the most crucial test as countdown to the no-confidence motion begins

Pakistan's National Assembly on Monday began its session to discuss the no-confidence resolution against Prime Minister Imran Khan. Reports say 161 lawmakers voted in favour of tabling the resolution. After the resolution, the National Assembly session was adjourned till Thursday.

No-confidence motion against PM Imran Khan tabled in Pakistan Parliament

Pakistani PM Imran Khan is facing an internal revolt, with several members leaving the PTI and joining the opposition. As per the recent report, 50 PTI ministers are missing.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan holds key meets with ally parties amid political crisis

Pakistan PM Imran Khan to hold a rally in Islamabad today amid political crisis

Political storm brews in Pakistan: PM Imran Khan says he is ready with a trump card

Pakistan: Imran Khan supporters chant slogans in support amid political crisis

Amid the ongoing political crisis, Pakistan Opposition Leader Shehbaz Sharif has accused PM Imran Khan's wife of witchcraft.

Pakistan Opposition Leader Shehbaz Sharif accuses PM Imran Khan's wife of witchcraft

The political crisis in Pakistan is growing day by day. Imran Khan's government is facing a no-confidence motion in the Parliament.

Pakistan Interior Minister: Expect early elections

Pakistan PM Imran Khan: I will not tender my resignation

Pakistan PM Imran Khan is facing revolt from his own party members. 24 PTI lawmakers have abandoned the party. They are going to vote against their leader in a no-confidence vote on March 21. Now, what will happen to Imran Khan?

Political crisis grips Pakistan: Can PM Imran Khan bring back the defectors?

Pakistan PM Imran Khan is facing revolt from his own party members. 24 PTI lawmakers have abandoned the party. They are going to vote against their leader in a no-confidence vote on March 21. Now, Pakistan Supreme Court has stepped in and demanded a report on Sindh house attack.

Pakistan SC steps in to prevent Anarchy & demands report on Sindh house attack

Is Imran Khan's tenure as Pak PM coming to an end? 24 PTI lawmakers have abandoned the party. They are going to vote against their leader in a no-confidence vote on March 21. Now, Pakistan PM Imran Khan met with Army chief.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan faces revolt from his own party

Pakistan PM Imran Khan meets Army chief after 24 PTI lawmakers revolt against the Prime Minister

Is Imran Khan's tenure as Pak PM coming to an end? 24 PTI lawmakers have abandoned the party. They are going to vote against their leader in a no-confidence vote on March 21. Now, Pakistan government to move Supreme Court.

Pakistan government to move Supreme Court as trouble mounts for PM Imran Khan

Trouble is mounting for Pakistan PM Imran Khan as cracks appear with the ruling alliance. This comes at a time when the opposition is also tightening the noose on Khan's government.

Trouble mounts for Pakistan PM Imran Khan as cracks appear with the ruling alliance

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is currently facing the threat of a no-confidence vote against him recently, turned into a subject of an online meme game after his picture inspecting a fighter jet went viral.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan overseeing fighter jets turns into a meme game

The opposition alliance in Pakistan has unanimously decided to move a no-confidence motion against the Imran Khan government.

Pakistan opposition takes aim at Imran Khan

In an apparent volte-face, on the first day of the Assembly session, Tamil Nadu's Opposition Party DMK decided not to insist on taking up the No-Confidence Motion against Assembly Speaker P.Dhanapal "considering the current circumstances".&nbsp;

The No-Confidence motion was expected to come up on July 1.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters at Fort St. George, DMK president and leader of the opposition M K Stalin said, "We will not insist on taking up the no-confidence motion. The situation has changed now. We have given a letter to the Speaker not insisting on the notice for the no-confidence motion".

On April 30, members of Tamil Nadu’s opposition party, the DMK met the Tamil Nadu Assembly Secretary to present a notice to move a no-confidence petition against the Assembly Speaker. This is in line with the party president M K Stalin’s earlier statement that the party would move a no-confidence motion against the speaker if he were to act in a biased manner. &nbsp;

This reaction from the DMK was triggered after the AIADMK party Chief whip S Rajendran on April 26 submitted a recommendation to Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal regarding the disqualification of three AIADMK MLAs on the grounds of ‘anti-party’ activities. The MLAs are E Rathinasabapathi, V T Kalaiselvan and Prabhu, who were elected from Aranthangi, Vridhachalam and Kallakurichi Assembly constituencies respectively.&nbsp;

It was perceived that the AIADMK had attempted to disqualify the MLAs in order to reduce the strength of the house, in order to safeguard their government if they fell short of seats in the 22 by-polls to Assembly seats.

However, the Supreme Court issued an interim stay on a notice sent by the Tamil Nadu Speaker to three MLAs of the ruling AIADMK, who were said to be loyal towards the TTV Dinakaran-led AMMK camp. Two of the MLAs who had received the notice from the Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal had approached the Supreme Court to stay the notice sent by the Speaker.

As the results to the by-polls are declared, the Tamil Nadu Assembly will now witness the participation of 232 legislators, out of the total house strength of 234. In the by-polls the ruling AIADMK won 9 seats, giving it up to 123 MLAs, well past the halfway mark of 118.&nbsp;

The opening day of the Assembly session today was adjourned after adopting obituary references for two legislators -- R. Kanagaraj of AIADMK and K. Radhamani of DMK -- who died recently. The House will meet on July 1 to take up the demands for grants for various departments. The Assembly session is expected to be stormy given the prevailing severe water crisis and the increased strength of DMK legislators after the by-polls to 22 Assembly constituencies.

Speaking to WION on the rationale behind the DMK's volte-face, senior journalist and political analyst Sumanth C Raman said, "obviously they wanted to avoid being defeated again on the floor of the house as the ruling AIADMK has the requisite numbers"

In an apparent volte-face, on the first day of the Assembly session, Tamil Nadu's Opposition Party DMK decided not to insist on taking up the No-Confidence Motion against Assembly Speaker P.

In an apparent volte-face, on the first day of the Assembly session, Tamil Nadu's Opposition Party DMK decided not to insist on taking up the No-Confidence Motion against Assembly Speaker P.Dhanapal "considering the current circumstances". The No-Confidence motion was expected to come up on July 1. Speaking to reporters at Fort St. George, DMK president and leader of the opposition M K Stalin said, "We will not insist on taking up the no-confidence motion. The situation has changed now. We have given a letter to the Speaker not insisting on the notice for the no-confidence motion". On April 30, members of Tamil Nadu’s opposition party, the DMK met the Tamil Nadu Assembly Secretary to present a notice to move a no-confidence petition against the Assembly Speaker. This is in line with the party president M K Stalin’s earlier statement that the party would move a no-confidence motion against the speaker if he were to act in a biased manner. This reaction from the DMK was triggered after the AIADMK party Chief whip S Rajendran on April 26 submitted a recommendation to Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal regarding the disqualification of three AIADMK MLAs on the grounds of ‘anti-party’ activities. The MLAs are E Rathinasabapathi, V T Kalaiselvan and Prabhu, who were elected from Aranthangi, Vridhachalam and Kallakurichi Assembly constituencies respectively. It was perceived that the AIADMK had attempted to disqualify the MLAs in order to reduce the strength of the house, in order to safeguard their government if they fell short of seats in the 22 by-polls to Assembly seats. However, the Supreme Court issued an interim stay on a notice sent by the Tamil Nadu Speaker to three MLAs of the ruling AIADMK, who were said to be loyal towards the TTV Dinakaran-led AMMK camp. Two of the MLAs who had received the notice from the Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal had approached the Supreme Court to stay the notice sent by the Speaker. As the results to the by-polls are declared, the Tamil Nadu Assembly will now witness the participation of 232 legislators, out of the total house strength of 234. In the by-polls the ruling AIADMK won 9 seats, giving it up to 123 MLAs, well past the halfway mark of 118. The opening day of the Assembly session today was adjourned after adopting obituary references for two legislators -- R. Kanagaraj of AIADMK and K. Radhamani of DMK -- who died recently. The House will meet on July 1 to take up the demands for grants for various departments. The Assembly session is expected to be stormy given the prevailing severe water crisis and the increased strength of DMK legislators after the by-polls to 22 Assembly constituencies. Speaking to WION on the rationale behind the DMK's volte-face, senior journalist and political analyst Sumanth C Raman said, "obviously they wanted to avoid being defeated again on the floor of the house as the ruling AIADMK has the requisite numbers"

Tamil Nadu: DMK to not push for no-confidence motion against Speaker

The Tamil Nadu Assembly is set to witness intense action in the upcoming session, when it convenes on 28th June. Besides the state’s severe water woes, one of the major issues that would hog the limelight would be the No-confidence motion moved by the Opposition Party DMK against the Assembly Speaker for allegedly performing his duties in a partisan manner. The No-Confidence motion is to come up on July 1st.

On April 26th, the AIADMK party Chief whip S&nbsp;Rajendran had submitted a recommendation to Assembly Speaker P&nbsp;Dhanapal regarding the disqualification of three AIADMK MLAs on the grounds of ‘anti-party’ activities. The MLAs are E Rathinasabapathi, V T Kalaiselvan and Prabhu, who were elected from Aranthangi, Vridhachalam and Kallakurichi Assembly constituencies respectively.&nbsp;

It was perceived that the AIADMK had attempted to disqualify the MLAs in order to reduce the strength of the house, in order to safeguard their government if they fell short of seats in the 22 bye-polls to Assembly seats.

On April 30th, Members of Tamil Nadu’s opposition party, the DMK met the Tamil Nadu Assembly Secretary on May 2nd to present a notice to move a no-confidence petition against the Assembly Speaker. This is in line with the party President M K Stalin’s earlier statement that the party would move a no-confidence motion against the speaker if he were to act in a biased manner. &nbsp;

However, the Supreme Court issued an interim stay on a notice sent by the Tamil Nadu Speaker to three MLAs of the ruling AIADMK, who were said to be loyal towards the TTV Dinakaran-led AMMK camp. Two of the MLAs who had received the notice from the Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal had approached the Supreme Court to stay the notice sent by the Speaker.

As the results to the bye-polls are declared, the Tamil Nadu Assembly will now witness the participation of 232 legislators, out of the total house strength of 234. In the bye-polls the ruling AIADMK won 9 seats, giving it up to 123 MLAs, well past the halfway mark of 118.&nbsp;

Whereas, the DMK won 13 seats, taking its individual tally up to 101. When added to the seats of its allies- the Congress and IUML, the DMK has 108 seats in the House. AMMK chief TTV Dhinakaran is the sole independent MLA in the House.

The State Assembly has not regained its full-strength of 234 members since 2017. The state is expected to face two more bye-polls in coming months. One is the Vikravandi Assembly constituency where the incumbent DMK MLA K Radhamani passed away. The Nanguneri Assembly constituency which was recently vacated by newly-elected Congress Kanyakumari MP H Vasanthakumar is also to expected have bye-polls. Elections to the Vellore Lok Sabha constituency, which were rescinded in May this year due to large-scale cash distribution and malpractices, are also due.

Speaking to WION on the possible scenario in the Assembly, Political Analyst and Senior Journalist Sumanth C Raman said, "I don't think anything significant will happen as the Government has the numbers to defeat the no-confidence vote".

The Tamil Nadu Assembly is set to witness intense action in the upcoming session, when it convenes on 28th June. Besides the state’s severe water woes, one of the major issues that would hog the limelight would be the No-confidence motion moved by the Opposition Party DMK against the Assembly Speaker for allegedly performing his duties in a partisan manner.

The Tamil Nadu Assembly is set to witness intense action in the upcoming session, when it convenes on 28th June. Besides the state’s severe water woes, one of the major issues that would hog the limelight would be the No-confidence motion moved by the Opposition Party DMK against the Assembly Speaker for allegedly performing his duties in a partisan manner. The No-Confidence motion is to come up on July 1st. On April 26th, the AIADMK party Chief whip S Rajendran had submitted a recommendation to Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal regarding the disqualification of three AIADMK MLAs on the grounds of ‘anti-party’ activities. The MLAs are E Rathinasabapathi, V T Kalaiselvan and Prabhu, who were elected from Aranthangi, Vridhachalam and Kallakurichi Assembly constituencies respectively. It was perceived that the AIADMK had attempted to disqualify the MLAs in order to reduce the strength of the house, in order to safeguard their government if they fell short of seats in the 22 bye-polls to Assembly seats. On April 30th, Members of Tamil Nadu’s opposition party, the DMK met the Tamil Nadu Assembly Secretary on May 2nd to present a notice to move a no-confidence petition against the Assembly Speaker. This is in line with the party President M K Stalin’s earlier statement that the party would move a no-confidence motion against the speaker if he were to act in a biased manner. However, the Supreme Court issued an interim stay on a notice sent by the Tamil Nadu Speaker to three MLAs of the ruling AIADMK, who were said to be loyal towards the TTV Dinakaran-led AMMK camp. Two of the MLAs who had received the notice from the Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal had approached the Supreme Court to stay the notice sent by the Speaker. As the results to the bye-polls are declared, the Tamil Nadu Assembly will now witness the participation of 232 legislators, out of the total house strength of 234. In the bye-polls the ruling AIADMK won 9 seats, giving it up to 123 MLAs, well past the halfway mark of 118. Whereas, the DMK won 13 seats, taking its individual tally up to 101. When added to the seats of its allies- the Congress and IUML, the DMK has 108 seats in the House. AMMK chief TTV Dhinakaran is the sole independent MLA in the House. The State Assembly has not regained its full-strength of 234 members since 2017. The state is expected to face two more bye-polls in coming months. One is the Vikravandi Assembly constituency where the incumbent DMK MLA K Radhamani passed away. The Nanguneri Assembly constituency which was recently vacated by newly-elected Congress Kanyakumari MP H Vasanthakumar is also to expected have bye-polls. Elections to the Vellore Lok Sabha constituency, which were rescinded in May this year due to large-scale cash distribution and malpractices, are also due. Speaking to WION on the possible scenario in the Assembly, Political Analyst and Senior Journalist Sumanth C Raman said, "I don't think anything significant will happen as the Government has the numbers to defeat the no-confidence vote".

Tamil Nadu Assembly to convene on June 28; no-confidence motion against speaker coming up on July 1

Sri Lanka's parliament <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-parliament-votes-against-rajapakse-177250">passed a no-confidence motion</a> against newly appointed Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa on Wednesday, presenting a standoff with the opposition and throwing the country deeper into turmoil.

Deputies from Rajapaksa's party rejected the voice vote as illegal, saying it wasn't scheduled and that the pro-China former strongman would remain in office.

It wasn't immediately clear what President Maithripala Sirisena, who triggered the crisis by firing Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and naming Rajapaksa to the job last month, would do now.

Government officials said there was confusion about who was in charge.

"We need cabinet approvals to go ahead with large value projects," one told Reuters. "We don't know if a cabinet exists or not."

Sirisena dissolved parliament last week and ordered elections as a way to break the deadlock but the Supreme Court ordered a suspension of that decree on Tuesday until it had heard petitions challenging the decree as unconstitutional.

Wickremesinghe, who had refused to vacate the prime minister's residence, said he intended to discharge his official responsibilities now that he had proved his majority in parliament.

Speaker Karu Jayasuriya said the no-confidence vote against Rajapaksa was supported by 122 members of the 225-member house.

"A majority voted in favour of the no-confidence motion and thus the no-confidence motion was passed," Jayasuriya said in a statement.

But Rajapaksa's son Namal, who is also an MP, said the vote had not been put on the day's business and hence was not valid. Father and son left the chamber before the vote was taken and their supporters shouted slogans in support.

The instability in the island nation of 21 million people has raised concerns for its tourism-dependent economy, already expanding at its slowest pace in more than a decade.

On Wednesday, the central bank unexpectedly raised its key policy rates, a move aimed at defending a faltering rupee as foreign capital outflows picked up. But the currency, slid further to a record low.

Sri Lanka, located just off the southern coast of India, is also an arena of contest with China. Beijing invested billions of dollars in ports and other infrastructure when Rajapaksa was president, raising concerns in India about losing political influence in its backyard.

WAR HERO

Rajapaksa, under whose rule Sri Lanka achieved its 2009 victory in a decades-long conflict against rebels from the Tamil minority, is seen as a hero by many among Sri Lanka’s Buddhist majority. He has been accused by diplomats of human rights abuses during the war, which he denies.

Wickremesinghe, who has sought to promote ties with India and the West to balance Sri Lanka's relations with China, said he intended to do his job.

"We will now take steps to ensure that the government in place before the 26th Oct will continue. I wish to inform all government servants and police that you cannot carry out illegal orders from the purported government that has failed to demonstrate the confidence of the people," he tweeted.

According to the constitution, the president has to appoint a prime minister who in his opinion can command the majority in parliament.

Sirisena has said he will never appoint Wickremesinghe as prime minister again.

The parliamentary speaker has called the president's sacking of the prime minister to bring a former leader back to power a non-violent coup.

Sri Lanka's parliament passed a no-confidence motion against newly appointed Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa on Wednesday, presenting a standoff with the opposition and throwing the country deeper into turmoil.

Sri Lanka's parliament passed a no-confidence motion against newly appointed Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa on Wednesday, presenting a standoff with the opposition and throwing the country deeper into turmoil. Deputies from Rajapaksa's party rejected the voice vote as illegal, saying it wasn't scheduled and that the pro-China former strongman would remain in office. It wasn't immediately clear what President Maithripala Sirisena, who triggered the crisis by firing Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and naming Rajapaksa to the job last month, would do now. Government officials said there was confusion about who was in charge. "We need cabinet approvals to go ahead with large value projects," one told Reuters. "We don't know if a cabinet exists or not." Sirisena dissolved parliament last week and ordered elections as a way to break the deadlock but the Supreme Court ordered a suspension of that decree on Tuesday until it had heard petitions challenging the decree as unconstitutional. Wickremesinghe, who had refused to vacate the prime minister's residence, said he intended to discharge his official responsibilities now that he had proved his majority in parliament. Speaker Karu Jayasuriya said the no-confidence vote against Rajapaksa was supported by 122 members of the 225-member house. "A majority voted in favour of the no-confidence motion and thus the no-confidence motion was passed," Jayasuriya said in a statement. But Rajapaksa's son Namal, who is also an MP, said the vote had not been put on the day's business and hence was not valid. Father and son left the chamber before the vote was taken and their supporters shouted slogans in support. The instability in the island nation of 21 million people has raised concerns for its tourism-dependent economy, already expanding at its slowest pace in more than a decade. On Wednesday, the central bank unexpectedly raised its key policy rates, a move aimed at defending a faltering rupee as foreign capital outflows picked up. But the currency, slid further to a record low. Sri Lanka, located just off the southern coast of India, is also an arena of contest with China. Beijing invested billions of dollars in ports and other infrastructure when Rajapaksa was president, raising concerns in India about losing political influence in its backyard. WAR HERO Rajapaksa, under whose rule Sri Lanka achieved its 2009 victory in a decades-long conflict against rebels from the Tamil minority, is seen as a hero by many among Sri Lanka’s Buddhist majority. He has been accused by diplomats of human rights abuses during the war, which he denies. Wickremesinghe, who has sought to promote ties with India and the West to balance Sri Lanka's relations with China, said he intended to do his job. "We will now take steps to ensure that the government in place before the 26th Oct will continue. I wish to inform all government servants and police that you cannot carry out illegal orders from the purported government that has failed to demonstrate the confidence of the people," he tweeted. According to the constitution, the president has to appoint a prime minister who in his opinion can command the majority in parliament. Sirisena has said he will never appoint Wickremesinghe as prime minister again. The parliamentary speaker has called the president's sacking of the prime minister to bring a former leader back to power a non-violent coup.

Sri Lanka: Rajapaksa deputies say he will stay in office despite losing trust vote

no-confidence-motion

No Confidence Motion, News on No Confidence Motion, stories on No Confidence Motion, articles on No Confidence Motion, No Confidence Motion stories at Wion, No Confidence Motion news, No Confidence Motion latest news

no confidence-motion