Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha (lower House of the Indian parliament), Rahul Gandhi said on Wednesday (Dec 4) that he was willing to visit the violence-hit Sambhal without his convoy, accompanied only by the police.&nbsp;

However, he said that the authorities had requested him to postpone his visit and asked him to return after a few days. Rahul stated that this was against the rights of the LoP and the Constitution.

Gandhi's statement comes as he and his sister, Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi, were stopped at the Ghazipur border and barred from proceeding towards Sambhal. Subsequently, the Congress leaders returned to Delhi.

"We are trying to go to Sambhal, the police is refusing, they are not allowing us. As LoP, it is my right to go, but they are stopping me. I am ready to go alone, I am ready to go with the police, but they did not accept that too. They are saying that if we come back in a few days then they will let us go. This is against the rights of the LoP and against the Constitution. We just want to go to Sambhal and see what happened there, we want to meet the people. My constitutional right is not being given to me. This is the new India, this is the India to end the Constitution. This is the India to end Ambedkar's Constitution. We will keep fighting," Rahul said.

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पुलिस ने हमें संभल जाने से रोक दिया। विपक्ष के नेता होने के नाते यह मेरा अधिकार और कर्तव्य है कि मैं वहां जाऊं। फिर भी मुझे रोका गया। 
 
मैं अकेला जाने को भी तैयार हूं, लेकिन वे इसके लिए भी नहीं माने। यह संविधान के ख़िलाफ़ है। 
 
भाजपा क्यों डरी हुई है - अपनी नाकामियों को छुपाने के… <a href="https://t.co/aZ5pDjXtZA">pic.twitter.com/aZ5pDjXtZA</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1864229268210815066?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Congress MP KC Venugopal said that they were informed that the party could again visit the violence-hit region after four to five days.

"Police informed us that they will allow us after four to five days. They have purposefully blocked the traffic. We do not want to create problems for the common people," Venugopal said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-cites-popular-bollywood-movie-dialogue-as-he-hails-3-new-criminal-laws-781374">PM Modi cites popular Bollywood movie dialogue as he hails adoption of 3 new criminal laws</a>

"Our delegation headed to Sambhal led by LOP Rahul Gandhi ji and Priyanka Gandhi ji has been stopped at the UP border in Ghaziabad. What is the reason behind the UP Government stopping the Lok Sabha LOP from visiting the families of those who lost their lives in the violence? It is basic humanity to stand by someone who has suffered such grief and loss. Rahul ji's motto has been 'Nafrat ke bazaar mein mohabbat ki dukaan'. And when the ruling regime has created an atmosphere of hatred, it is our duty as the opposition to bring compassion, empathy and love," he wrote in a post on X.

"We are determined to meet the victims' families in the interest of peace and communal harmony in our country, the UP government must allow the delegation to visit Sambhal," he added.

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Our delegation headed to Sambhal led by LOP Sh. <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> ji and Smt. <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankagandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@priyankagandhi</a> ji has been stopped at the UP border in Ghaziabad. 
 
What is the reason behind the UP Government stopping the Lok Sabha LOP from visiting the families of those who lost their lives in the… <a href="https://t.co/G3phBGdzEA">pic.twitter.com/G3phBGdzEA</a>
— K C Venugopal (@kcvenugopalmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/kcvenugopalmp/status/1864183940321259660?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>'Cannot be stopped like this,' says Priyanka</h2>

The Wayanad MP said that Rahul Gandhi being the Leader of the Opposition has full right to meet the victims of violence-hit Sambhal and cannot be stopped by the police.

"Whatever happened in Sambhal is wrong. Rahul Gandhi is the leader of the opposition, he has constitutional rights and he cannot be stopped like this. He has the constitutional right to be allowed to go and meet the victims. He also said that he would go alone with the UP police but they are not ready to do that either. The police have no answer. Maybe the situation in Uttar Pradesh is such that they cannot handle even this much. Why do they say so arrogantly that they have taken care of the law and order?" Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha (lower House of the Indian parliament), Rahul Gandhi said on Wednesday (Dec 4) that he was willing to visit the violence-hit Sambhal without his convoy, accompanied only by the police.

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha (lower House of the Indian parliament), Rahul Gandhi said on Wednesday (Dec 4) that he was willing to visit the violence-hit Sambhal without his convoy, accompanied only by the police. However, he said that the authorities had requested him to postpone his visit and asked him to return after a few days. Rahul stated that this was against the rights of the LoP and the Constitution. Gandhi's statement comes as he and his sister, Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi, were stopped at the Ghazipur border and barred from proceeding towards Sambhal. Subsequently, the Congress leaders returned to Delhi. "We are trying to go to Sambhal, the police is refusing, they are not allowing us. As LoP, it is my right to go, but they are stopping me. I am ready to go alone, I am ready to go with the police, but they did not accept that too. They are saying that if we come back in a few days then they will let us go. This is against the rights of the LoP and against the Constitution. We just want to go to Sambhal and see what happened there, we want to meet the people. My constitutional right is not being given to me. This is the new India, this is the India to end the Constitution. This is the India to end Ambedkar's Constitution. We will keep fighting," Rahul said. पुलिस ने हमें संभल जाने से रोक दिया। विपक्ष के नेता होने के नाते यह मेरा अधिकार और कर्तव्य है कि मैं वहां जाऊं। फिर भी मुझे रोका गया। मैं अकेला जाने को भी तैयार हूं, लेकिन वे इसके लिए भी नहीं माने। यह संविधान के ख़िलाफ़ है। भाजपा क्यों डरी हुई है - अपनी नाकामियों को छुपाने के… pic.twitter.com/aZ5pDjXtZA — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) December 4, 2024 × Congress MP KC Venugopal said that they were informed that the party could again visit the violence-hit region after four to five days. "Police informed us that they will allow us after four to five days. They have purposefully blocked the traffic. We do not want to create problems for the common people," Venugopal said. Also read: PM Modi cites popular Bollywood movie dialogue as he hails adoption of 3 new criminal laws "Our delegation headed to Sambhal led by LOP Rahul Gandhi ji and Priyanka Gandhi ji has been stopped at the UP border in Ghaziabad. What is the reason behind the UP Government stopping the Lok Sabha LOP from visiting the families of those who lost their lives in the violence? It is basic humanity to stand by someone who has suffered such grief and loss. Rahul ji's motto has been 'Nafrat ke bazaar mein mohabbat ki dukaan'. And when the ruling regime has created an atmosphere of hatred, it is our duty as the opposition to bring compassion, empathy and love," he wrote in a post on X. "We are determined to meet the victims' families in the interest of peace and communal harmony in our country, the UP government must allow the delegation to visit Sambhal," he added. Our delegation headed to Sambhal led by LOP Sh. @RahulGandhi ji and Smt. @priyankagandhi ji has been stopped at the UP border in Ghaziabad. What is the reason behind the UP Government stopping the Lok Sabha LOP from visiting the families of those who lost their lives in the… pic.twitter.com/G3phBGdzEA — K C Venugopal (@kcvenugopalmp) December 4, 2024 × 'Cannot be stopped like this,' says Priyanka The Wayanad MP said that Rahul Gandhi being the Leader of the Opposition has full right to meet the victims of violence-hit Sambhal and cannot be stopped by the police. "Whatever happened in Sambhal is wrong. Rahul Gandhi is the leader of the opposition, he has constitutional rights and he cannot be stopped like this. He has the constitutional right to be allowed to go and meet the victims. He also said that he would go alone with the UP police but they are not ready to do that either. The police have no answer. Maybe the situation in Uttar Pradesh is such that they cannot handle even this much. Why do they say so arrogantly that they have taken care of the law and order?" Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said. (With inputs from agencies)

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi stopped at Ghazipur border on way to Sambhal, says 'against rights'

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra took oath as the Lok Sabha MP from Wayanad on Thursday (Nov. 28). While heading to take the oath, her brother Rahul Gandhi started taking her pictures, and later Congress posted a video of them saying, "Proud brother".&nbsp;

In the video posted by Congress on X, Rahul Gandhi was seen capturing his sister on camera, saying, "Let me also take this."&nbsp;

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Proud Brother ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/InNUypMxce">pic.twitter.com/InNUypMxce</a>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1862017138812432460?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The video went viral, attracting several comments. One of the users commented, "siblings goals activated".&nbsp;

Priyanka Gandhi also met Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and took his blessings.&nbsp;

Priyanka took the oath as a member of Parliament in the Lok Sabha, holding a copy of the Constitution.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/by-polls-priyanka-gandhi-secures-comfortable-lead-in-maiden-contest-from-keralas-wayanad-778581">Also read:&nbsp;By-polls: Priyanka Gandhi secures comfortable lead in maiden contest from Kerala's Wayanad</a>

Her family members, including&nbsp;her mother Sonia Gandhi, brother Rahul Gandhi, and children, Raihan and Miraya, were also present at her oath ceremony.&nbsp;

"Having been elected a member of the House of the People, do solemnly affirm that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of India as by law established. I will uphold the sovereignty and integrity of India and will faithfully discharge the duties of the office which I am about to assume," she said while holding the Indian Constitution.&nbsp;

"Having been elected a member of the House of the People, do solemnly affirm that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of India as by law established. I will uphold the sovereignty and integrity of India and will faithfully discharge the duties of the office which I am about to assume," she added.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Congress leader Rahul Gandhi gives up Wayanad Lok Sabha seat for sister Priyanka Gandhi

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"To my mother, Robert, and my two jewels- Raihan and Miraya, no gratitude is ever enough for the love and courage you give me. And to my brother, Rahul, you are the bravest of them all… thank you for showing me the way and having my back, always!" she had said.

Priyanka won the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat with a margin of 4,10,931 votes, defeating Sathyan Mokeri of the Communist Party of India (CPI).&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra took oath as the Lok Sabha MP from Wayanad on Thursday (Nov. 28). While heading to take the oath, her brother Rahul Gandhi started taking her pictures, and later Congress posted a video of them saying, "Proud brother".

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra took oath as the Lok Sabha MP from Wayanad on Thursday (Nov. 28). While heading to take the oath, her brother Rahul Gandhi started taking her pictures, and later Congress posted a video of them saying, "Proud brother". In the video posted by Congress on X, Rahul Gandhi was seen capturing his sister on camera, saying, "Let me also take this." Proud Brother ❤️ pic.twitter.com/InNUypMxce — Congress (@INCIndia) November 28, 2024 × The video went viral, attracting several comments. One of the users commented, "siblings goals activated". Priyanka Gandhi also met Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and took his blessings. Priyanka took the oath as a member of Parliament in the Lok Sabha, holding a copy of the Constitution. Also read: By-polls: Priyanka Gandhi secures comfortable lead in maiden contest from Kerala's Wayanad Her family members, including her mother Sonia Gandhi, brother Rahul Gandhi, and children, Raihan and Miraya, were also present at her oath ceremony. "Having been elected a member of the House of the People, do solemnly affirm that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of India as by law established. I will uphold the sovereignty and integrity of India and will faithfully discharge the duties of the office which I am about to assume," she said while holding the Indian Constitution. "Having been elected a member of the House of the People, do solemnly affirm that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of India as by law established. I will uphold the sovereignty and integrity of India and will faithfully discharge the duties of the office which I am about to assume," she added. Watch | Congress leader Rahul Gandhi gives up Wayanad Lok Sabha seat for sister Priyanka Gandhi × "To my mother, Robert, and my two jewels- Raihan and Miraya, no gratitude is ever enough for the love and courage you give me. And to my brother, Rahul, you are the bravest of them all… thank you for showing me the way and having my back, always!" she had said. Priyanka won the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat with a margin of 4,10,931 votes, defeating Sathyan Mokeri of the Communist Party of India (CPI). (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Rahul Gandhi clicks MP Priyanka Gandhi at parliament as she heads to take oath

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Saturday surpassed the 3.64 lakh lead achieved by her brother Rahul Gandhi in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls earlier this year, as she comfortably cruises towards her maiden electoral win from the Wayanad seat in Kerala.

As the counting progressed in the hill constituency, leaders of the Congress and its ally, the IUML, predicted a significant victory for her.

The Congress-led UDF's candidate, Priyanka, extended her lead over her rivals by over 4.1 lakh votes after nearly seven hours of counting of the ballots in the Wayanad Lok Sabha bypoll, according to the Election Commission.

Reacting to the lead achieved by Priyanka, Congress' ally Indian Union Muslim League and Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy said she would get more votes than her brother Rahul Gandhi in the Lok Sabha polls in April this year and will win by a record margin.

"An amazing first trend on counting day is the massive early lead for our leader @priyankagandhi ji in Wayanad, Kerala, by-election. People of Wayanad are surely going to record in victory margins today and Priyanka ji will make Parliamentary debut with a grand win," Reddy said in a post on 'X'.

IUML supremo Panakkad Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal said that going by the trends, Priyanka will get more votes than what Rahul got and the majority she achieves would also be higher than that of her brother.

A similar view was expressed by IUML's national general secretary P K Kunhalikutty.

Priyanka's husband, Robert Vadra, told reporters in Delhi that his wife was "breaking all records and the trends show the love and affection she has received from the people of Wayanad.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiJp9SotPKJAxVoyTgGHcYoPFYQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/by-polls-priyanka-gandhi-secures-comfortable-lead-in-maiden-contest-from-keralas-wayanad-778581" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/by-polls-priyanka-gandhi-secures-comfortable-lead-in-maiden-contest-from-keralas-wayanad-778581&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiJp9SotPKJAxVoyTgGHcYoPFYQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">By-polls: Priyanka Gandhi secures comfortable lead in maiden contest from Kerala`s Wayanad</a>

"We are very very thankful to the people of Wayanad for electing her as their representative in the Parliament. I think they (people of Wayanad) made the right decision because she will fight for them and all the issues in Wayanad.

"Whenever she is committed to something, she puts her heart and soul into it and you will be seeing a lot more of her in Wayanad and if required, I will also be there," he said.

On the other hand, BJP leader Anil K Antony, earlier in the day, had claimed that though Priyanka has achieved a good lead, her victory margin would be less than what Rahul got in the 2024 and 2019 LS polls in the hill constituency.

According to the latest EC figures, Priyanka had a lead of 4,10,931 with 6,22,338 votes. LDF's Sathyan Mokeri was behind her with 2,11,407 votes and NDA's Navya Haridas was in the third spot with 1,09,939 votes.

Rahul had got 6,47,445 votes and won by a margin of 3,64,422 votes against his nearest rival, CPI's Annie Raja, in the LS polls this year. In 2019, he had got 7,06,367 votes and had won by a margin of 4,31,770 votes.

However, the bypoll turnout in Wayanad, which has over 14 lakh registered voters, was around 65 per cent, a decline from the close to 74 per cent in the LS polls held in April this year and much lower than the over 80 per cent turnout in the hill constituency in the 2019 general elections.

After winning from Rae Bareilly in Uttar Pradesh as well, in this year's polls, Rahul vacated the Wayanad seat, and the party nominated his sister Priyanka, paving the way for her electoral debut.

The counting of votes commenced at 8 am with postal ballots being taken up first.

The strong rooms, where the EVMs were kept, were opened more than an hour before counting began.

The bypoll for the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat was held on November 13.

Of the 16 candidates who contested, the main contenders were Priyanka, ruling CPI(M)-led LDF's Sathyan Mokeri, a political veteran, and BJP-headed NDA's Navya Haridas.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Saturday surpassed the 3.64 lakh lead achieved by her brother Rahul Gandhi in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls earlier this year, as she comfortably cruises towards her maiden electoral win from the Wayanad seat in Kerala.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Saturday surpassed the 3.64 lakh lead achieved by her brother Rahul Gandhi in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls earlier this year, as she comfortably cruises towards her maiden electoral win from the Wayanad seat in Kerala. As the counting progressed in the hill constituency, leaders of the Congress and its ally, the IUML, predicted a significant victory for her. The Congress-led UDF's candidate, Priyanka, extended her lead over her rivals by over 4.1 lakh votes after nearly seven hours of counting of the ballots in the Wayanad Lok Sabha bypoll, according to the Election Commission. Reacting to the lead achieved by Priyanka, Congress' ally Indian Union Muslim League and Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy said she would get more votes than her brother Rahul Gandhi in the Lok Sabha polls in April this year and will win by a record margin. "An amazing first trend on counting day is the massive early lead for our leader @priyankagandhi ji in Wayanad, Kerala, by-election. People of Wayanad are surely going to record in victory margins today and Priyanka ji will make Parliamentary debut with a grand win," Reddy said in a post on 'X'. IUML supremo Panakkad Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal said that going by the trends, Priyanka will get more votes than what Rahul got and the majority she achieves would also be higher than that of her brother. A similar view was expressed by IUML's national general secretary P K Kunhalikutty. Priyanka's husband, Robert Vadra, told reporters in Delhi that his wife was "breaking all records and the trends show the love and affection she has received from the people of Wayanad. Also read: By-polls: Priyanka Gandhi secures comfortable lead in maiden contest from Kerala`s Wayanad "We are very very thankful to the people of Wayanad for electing her as their representative in the Parliament. I think they (people of Wayanad) made the right decision because she will fight for them and all the issues in Wayanad. "Whenever she is committed to something, she puts her heart and soul into it and you will be seeing a lot more of her in Wayanad and if required, I will also be there," he said. On the other hand, BJP leader Anil K Antony, earlier in the day, had claimed that though Priyanka has achieved a good lead, her victory margin would be less than what Rahul got in the 2024 and 2019 LS polls in the hill constituency. According to the latest EC figures, Priyanka had a lead of 4,10,931 with 6,22,338 votes. LDF's Sathyan Mokeri was behind her with 2,11,407 votes and NDA's Navya Haridas was in the third spot with 1,09,939 votes. Rahul had got 6,47,445 votes and won by a margin of 3,64,422 votes against his nearest rival, CPI's Annie Raja, in the LS polls this year. In 2019, he had got 7,06,367 votes and had won by a margin of 4,31,770 votes. However, the bypoll turnout in Wayanad, which has over 14 lakh registered voters, was around 65 per cent, a decline from the close to 74 per cent in the LS polls held in April this year and much lower than the over 80 per cent turnout in the hill constituency in the 2019 general elections. After winning from Rae Bareilly in Uttar Pradesh as well, in this year's polls, Rahul vacated the Wayanad seat, and the party nominated his sister Priyanka, paving the way for her electoral debut. The counting of votes commenced at 8 am with postal ballots being taken up first. The strong rooms, where the EVMs were kept, were opened more than an hour before counting began. The bypoll for the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat was held on November 13. Of the 16 candidates who contested, the main contenders were Priyanka, ruling CPI(M)-led LDF's Sathyan Mokeri, a political veteran, and BJP-headed NDA's Navya Haridas. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Wayanad Lok Sabha bypoll: Priyanka's massive lead of 400k votes dwarfs Rahul's victory

Congress candidate Priyanka Gandhi Vadra secured a comfortable lead in her maiden electoral contest in the Indian state of Kerala's Wayanad Lok Sabha seat by over 300,000 votes.&nbsp;

Priyanka has so far gained 481689 votes and is ahead by a margin of almost 319199 votes.

Communist Party of India (CPI) candidate Sathyan Mokeri is currently in the second position, whereas Navya Haridas from Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is in the third.

The by-polls were conducted in 48 assembly seats and two Lok Sabha seats across 15 states.

In Maharashtra's Nanded Lok Sabha seat, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is ahead of the grand old party by a margin of 13276 votes.

BJP's Santukrao Marotrao Hambarde is leading with 158778 votes, whereas Congress' Chavan Ravindra Vasantrao is trailing behind with 147115 votes.&nbsp;

The voter turnout in the Nanded constituency, on Wednesday (Nov 20), was recorded as 53.78 per cent.

In Uttar Pradesh, BJP candidates are leading in Majhawan, Ghaziabad, Kundkarki, Khair and Pulpur, while the SP secured lead in Karhal and Sismhamau and the RLD in Meerapur.

BJP's Asha Nautiyal is leading in Uttarakhand's Kedarnath. Trailing behind is Congress' Manoj Rawat.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exit-polls-ruling-mahayuti-poised-to-retain-power-in-maharashtra-778403">Exit polls: Ruling Mahayuti poised to retain power in Maharashtra</a>

<h2>Karnataka bypolls</h2>

The ruling party in the state, Congress, secured a lead in the Channapatna, Shiggaon assembly segments and won in &nbsp;Sandur by a margin of 9649 votes.

The by-election to three segments was held on November 13.

The by-polls saw a contest between Congress and BJP in Sandur and Shiggaon segments.&nbsp;

Congress candidate Pathan Yasirahmedkhan is leading with 99399 votes and Bharath Bommai is behind with 85919 votes.

In Sandur, Congress candidate E Annapoorna won by 93616 votes. Trailing behind was BJP's Bangara Hanumantha with 83967 votes.

In Channapatna, Congress' Yogeeshwara is ahead by 26462 votes. The second spot is grabbed by Janata Dal (Secular)'s Nikhil Kumaraswamy who has so far accumulated 77702 votes.

(With inputs from agencies)

Congress candidate Priyanka Gandhi Vadra secured a comfortable lead in her maiden electoral contest in the Indian state of Kerala's Wayanad Lok Sabha seat by over 300,000 votes.

Congress candidate Priyanka Gandhi Vadra secured a comfortable lead in her maiden electoral contest in the Indian state of Kerala's Wayanad Lok Sabha seat by over 300,000 votes. Priyanka has so far gained 481689 votes and is ahead by a margin of almost 319199 votes. Communist Party of India (CPI) candidate Sathyan Mokeri is currently in the second position, whereas Navya Haridas from Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is in the third. The by-polls were conducted in 48 assembly seats and two Lok Sabha seats across 15 states. In Maharashtra's Nanded Lok Sabha seat, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is ahead of the grand old party by a margin of 13276 votes. BJP's Santukrao Marotrao Hambarde is leading with 158778 votes, whereas Congress' Chavan Ravindra Vasantrao is trailing behind with 147115 votes. The voter turnout in the Nanded constituency, on Wednesday (Nov 20), was recorded as 53.78 per cent. In Uttar Pradesh, BJP candidates are leading in Majhawan, Ghaziabad, Kundkarki, Khair and Pulpur, while the SP secured lead in Karhal and Sismhamau and the RLD in Meerapur. BJP's Asha Nautiyal is leading in Uttarakhand's Kedarnath. Trailing behind is Congress' Manoj Rawat. Also read: Exit polls: Ruling Mahayuti poised to retain power in Maharashtra Karnataka bypolls The ruling party in the state, Congress, secured a lead in the Channapatna, Shiggaon assembly segments and won in Sandur by a margin of 9649 votes. The by-election to three segments was held on November 13. The by-polls saw a contest between Congress and BJP in Sandur and Shiggaon segments. Congress candidate Pathan Yasirahmedkhan is leading with 99399 votes and Bharath Bommai is behind with 85919 votes. In Sandur, Congress candidate E Annapoorna won by 93616 votes. Trailing behind was BJP's Bangara Hanumantha with 83967 votes. In Channapatna, Congress' Yogeeshwara is ahead by 26462 votes. The second spot is grabbed by Janata Dal (Secular)'s Nikhil Kumaraswamy who has so far accumulated 77702 votes. (With inputs from agencies)

By-polls: Priyanka Gandhi secures comfortable lead in maiden contest from Kerala's Wayanad

Vinesh Phogat assured a medal for India after entering the final of women's wrestling at Paris Olympics. But her victory was followed by a slew of political potshots, given her participation in protests against the ruling government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Opposition Congress took the opportunity to take potshots at Modi, asking him if he would congratulate her like he does for all sports achievers, while Kangana Renaut, an MP from Modi's ruling BJP, reminded Phogat that at one time the wrestler had said she would 'dig Modi's grave'.

<h2>Vinesh Phogat's feat at Olympics</h2>

On Tuesday (Aug 6), the 29-year-old became the first Indian woman to enter an Olympics wrestling final.&nbsp;On a single day, Phogat defeated three top wrestlers.&nbsp;She beat Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman in the semifinal of women's 50kg freestyle category, after stunning defending champion Yui Susaki of Japan and eighth-seeded Ukrainian Oksana Livach in the previous bouts. On Wednesday, she will face American&nbsp;Sarah Hildebrandt in the final.

<h2> 
How opposition Congress reacted to Vinesh Phogat's Olympics achievement</h2>

Rahul Gandhi, India's leader of Opposition&nbsp;said in a post on X: "Today, along with Vinesh, the entire country is emotional after defeating three top wrestlers of the world in a single day. All those who denied the struggle of Vinesh and her teammates, and even questioned their intentions and abilities, have got their answer."

"Today, the entire power system that had made India shed tears of blood collapsed in front of her brave daughter. This is the identity of champions, they give their answer from the field. Best wishes Vinesh. The echo of your success in Paris can be heard clearly till Delhi," said the Congress leader.

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एक ही दिन में दुनिया की तीन धुरंधर पहलवानों को हराने के बाद आज विनेश के साथ-साथ पूरा देश भावुक है। 
 
जिन्होंने भी विनेश और उसके साथियों के संघर्ष को झुठलाया, उनकी नीयत और काबिलियत तक पर प्रश्नचिन्ह खड़े किए, उन सभी को जवाब मिल चुका है। 
 
आज भारत की बहादुर बेटी के सामने सत्ता का… <a href="https://t.co/MzfIrYfRog">pic.twitter.com/MzfIrYfRog</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1820877024883601915?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Rahul Gandhi's sister and Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi wrote on X: "I know that for you this is not just a tough match of Olympics. You defeated the world's number one player, but this is also a victory of your struggles inside and outside the field. Today the whole world is seeing the tricolour fluttering in your hands. You are the pride of this country and will always remain so. Best wishes. Jai Ho! Vijay Ho!"

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शाबाश <a href="https://twitter.com/Phogat_Vinesh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Phogat_Vinesh</a> ! 
 
मैं जानती हूं कि आपके लिए यह सिर्फ ओ​लंपिक का कठिन मुकाबला भर नहीं है। आपने दुनिया की नंबर वन खिलाड़ी को तो हराया ही, यह मैदान के भीतर और बाहर आपके संघर्षों की भी जीत है। 
 
आज पूरी दुनिया आपके हाथों में लहराता हुआ तिरंगा देख रही है। आप इस देश का गौरव हैं… <a href="https://t.co/ATOuWuLRns">pic.twitter.com/ATOuWuLRns</a>
— Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankagandhi/status/1820800692258279693?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Congress leader Jairam Ramesh posted on X: "Vinesh Phogat is assured of a silver or a gold medal at Paris. Will the non-biological PM call her? To congratulate her of course but more importantly to apologise for the atrocious manner in which the Delhi Police misbehaved with her during the women wrestlers protest?"

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विनेश फोगाट का पेरिस ओलंपिक में सिल्वर या गोल्ड मेडल पक्का है। क्या नॉन-बायोलॉजिकल प्रधानमंत्री उन्हें कॉल करेंगे? निश्चित रूप से उन्हें बधाई देने के लिए, लेकिन इससे भी महत्वपूर्ण यह है कि उस शर्मानाक घटना के लिए माफ़ी मांगने के लिए जब महिला पहलवानों के विरोध प्रदर्शन के दौरान…
— Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jairam_Ramesh/status/1820881846713860209?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Reacting to the news, Kangana Renaut, actress and BJP lawmaker from Himachal Pradesh, pointed out that Phogat, at the height of wrestlers' protest, had said she would dig the grave of Modi, and yet was allowed to take part in Olympics. 
 
"Fingers crossed for India's first Gold Medal. Vinesh Phogat at one point took part in protests where she raised the slogans of 'Modi teri khabr Khudegi' [Modi, will dig your grave]. Yet she was given the opportunity to represent the nation and best of the training, coaches and facilities. Beauty of democrac and a great leader," she posted on her Instagram stories.

<h2>Vinesh Phogat and the wrestlers' protest</h2>

In 2023, Vinesh Phogat along with some male and female wrestlers began a protest against Brajbhushan Singh, then a BJP lawmaker and the chief of Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), alleging that he molested or sexually abused several wrestlers. In spite of their long protest, Singh refused to quit, and the government cracked down on the protest, forcibly removing them from Delhi streets. The protest eventually became a larger anti-government agitation. Singh eventually exited as WFI chief. 
 
Even before the Indian wrestlers were to go to Paris, there were several uncertainties as to whether they will be allowed or able to participate. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Vinesh Phogat assured a medal for India after entering the final of women's wrestling at Paris Olympics. But her victory was followed by a slew of political potshots, given her participation in protests against the ruling government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Vinesh Phogat assured a medal for India after entering the final of women's wrestling at Paris Olympics. But her victory was followed by a slew of political potshots, given her participation in protests against the ruling government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Opposition Congress took the opportunity to take potshots at Modi, asking him if he would congratulate her like he does for all sports achievers, while Kangana Renaut, an MP from Modi's ruling BJP, reminded Phogat that at one time the wrestler had said she would 'dig Modi's grave'. Vinesh Phogat's feat at Olympics On Tuesday (Aug 6), the 29-year-old became the first Indian woman to enter an Olympics wrestling final. On a single day, Phogat defeated three top wrestlers. She beat Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman in the semifinal of women's 50kg freestyle category, after stunning defending champion Yui Susaki of Japan and eighth-seeded Ukrainian Oksana Livach in the previous bouts. On Wednesday, she will face American Sarah Hildebrandt in the final. How opposition Congress reacted to Vinesh Phogat's Olympics achievement Rahul Gandhi, India's leader of Opposition said in a post on X: "Today, along with Vinesh, the entire country is emotional after defeating three top wrestlers of the world in a single day. All those who denied the struggle of Vinesh and her teammates, and even questioned their intentions and abilities, have got their answer." "Today, the entire power system that had made India shed tears of blood collapsed in front of her brave daughter. This is the identity of champions, they give their answer from the field. Best wishes Vinesh. The echo of your success in Paris can be heard clearly till Delhi," said the Congress leader. एक ही दिन में दुनिया की तीन धुरंधर पहलवानों को हराने के बाद आज विनेश के साथ-साथ पूरा देश भावुक है। जिन्होंने भी विनेश और उसके साथियों के संघर्ष को झुठलाया, उनकी नीयत और काबिलियत तक पर प्रश्नचिन्ह खड़े किए, उन सभी को जवाब मिल चुका है। आज भारत की बहादुर बेटी के सामने सत्ता का… pic.twitter.com/MzfIrYfRog — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 6, 2024 × Rahul Gandhi's sister and Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi wrote on X: "I know that for you this is not just a tough match of Olympics. You defeated the world's number one player, but this is also a victory of your struggles inside and outside the field. Today the whole world is seeing the tricolour fluttering in your hands. You are the pride of this country and will always remain so. Best wishes. Jai Ho! Vijay Ho!" शाबाश @Phogat_Vinesh ! मैं जानती हूं कि आपके लिए यह सिर्फ ओलंपिक का कठिन मुकाबला भर नहीं है। आपने दुनिया की नंबर वन खिलाड़ी को तो हराया ही, यह मैदान के भीतर और बाहर आपके संघर्षों की भी जीत है। आज पूरी दुनिया आपके हाथों में लहराता हुआ तिरंगा देख रही है। आप इस देश का गौरव हैं… pic.twitter.com/ATOuWuLRns — Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) August 6, 2024 × Congress leader Jairam Ramesh posted on X: "Vinesh Phogat is assured of a silver or a gold medal at Paris. Will the non-biological PM call her? To congratulate her of course but more importantly to apologise for the atrocious manner in which the Delhi Police misbehaved with her during the women wrestlers protest?" विनेश फोगाट का पेरिस ओलंपिक में सिल्वर या गोल्ड मेडल पक्का है। क्या नॉन-बायोलॉजिकल प्रधानमंत्री उन्हें कॉल करेंगे? निश्चित रूप से उन्हें बधाई देने के लिए, लेकिन इससे भी महत्वपूर्ण यह है कि उस शर्मानाक घटना के लिए माफ़ी मांगने के लिए जब महिला पहलवानों के विरोध प्रदर्शन के दौरान… — Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) August 6, 2024 × Reacting to the news, Kangana Renaut, actress and BJP lawmaker from Himachal Pradesh, pointed out that Phogat, at the height of wrestlers' protest, had said she would dig the grave of Modi, and yet was allowed to take part in Olympics. "Fingers crossed for India's first Gold Medal. Vinesh Phogat at one point took part in protests where she raised the slogans of 'Modi teri khabr Khudegi' [Modi, will dig your grave]. Yet she was given the opportunity to represent the nation and best of the training, coaches and facilities. Beauty of democrac and a great leader," she posted on her Instagram stories. Vinesh Phogat and the wrestlers' protest In 2023, Vinesh Phogat along with some male and female wrestlers began a protest against Brajbhushan Singh, then a BJP lawmaker and the chief of Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), alleging that he molested or sexually abused several wrestlers. In spite of their long protest, Singh refused to quit, and the government cracked down on the protest, forcibly removing them from Delhi streets. The protest eventually became a larger anti-government agitation. Singh eventually exited as WFI chief. Even before the Indian wrestlers were to go to Paris, there were several uncertainties as to whether they will be allowed or able to participate. (With inputs from agencies)

Vinesh Phogat enters Olympics wrestling final, Congress mocks PM, Kangana reminds her of anti-Modi stance

Robert Vadra declared his support for wife Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who is running for the Wayanad seat vacated by her brother and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Vadra stated that he actively pushed Priyanka Gandhi to enter politics and assume a more significant role.

Robert Vadra declared his support for wife Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who is running for the Wayanad seat vacated by her brother and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Vadra stated that he actively pushed Priyanka Gandhi to enter politics and assume a more significant role. "When it is the right time," he said, he will accompany her in Parliament too. "This time when the decision was being taken, I didn't take no for an answer. It is essential now for her to be in active politics and parliament and not just campaign. She works hard... the slogans she raises 'I can fight' ... if they are taken to the parliament, she'll be able to perform her duties even better," Vadra said. He thanked the people for participating in the recent elections and expressed his desire to see Priyanka in Parliamen. "She should be in Parliament, not because she has been campaigning, but because I want her to be there. She should be in the Parliament before me. I can follow whenever the time is right. I am happy, and I hope people will give her a good mandate," the news agency PTI quoted him as saying. Vadra emphasised the Congress Party's attempts to solve pressing concerns like religious polarisation, unemployment, women's safety, and inflation. He gave Rahul and Priyanka credit for their nationwide efforts and acknowledged their leadership in building a stronger opposition. Also read: Swati Maliwal writes to INDIA bloc leaders, says was 'badly beaten' at Arvind Kejriwal's house Vadra commented on the BJP's reaction to recent political developments, saying, "They're worried, troubled. They're huddling together to understand what next we can do. Priyanka will be raising the issues. She gave the slogan - 'Ladki hoon lad sakti hoon.' She fought for women for long. Voices of women will be raised. BJP should look at their history. They can't talk about Parivarvaad. People don't want to hear them anymore. We will fight them and ensure a secular government." Priyanka's choice to run from Wayanad in the south Indian state of Kerala is a key turning point in her political career. Rahul Gandhi, her brother, decided to hold onto the Rae Bareli seat in Uttar Pradesh, which led her to enter the Wayanad bypoll. If Priyanka, who has demonstrated her effectiveness as a campaigner, wins, the Nehru-Gandhi family will have three members of Parliament: Sonia Gandhi in the Rajya Sabha and her children Rahul and Priyanka in the Lok Sabha. The party performed better in the most recent Lok Sabha elections, winning 99 seats. (With inputs from agencies)

'Priyanka should be in parliament, I want her to be there,' says Robert Vadra as he backs wife's Wayanad run

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge announced in a press conference Monday (Jun 17) that Rahul Gandhi will vacate the Wayanad seat from Kerala and retain Uttar Pradesh's Rae Bareli.

India: Priyanka Gandhi to make debut from Wayanad

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Wednesday (June 5) penned an emotional note for brother Rahul after he won both Lok Sabha seats,&nbsp;Rae Bareli and&nbsp;Wayanad.

Taking to her official X handle, she heaped&nbsp;praises on Rahul for fighting the electoral contest with "love, truth and kindness" despite his conviction being doubted.

"You kept standing, no matter what they said and did to you...you never backed down whatever the odds, never stopped believing however much they doubted your conviction, you never stopped fighting for the truth despite the overwhelming propaganda of lies they spread, and you never allowed anger and hatred to overcome you, even when they gifted it to you every day," Priyanka wrote in a post on X.

"You fought with love, truth and kindness in your heart. Those who could not see you, see you now, but some of us have always seen and known you to be the bravest of all. Bhai Rahul Gandhi, I am proud to be your sister," she added.

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You kept standing, no matter what they said and did to you…you never backed down whatever the odds, never stopped believing however much they doubted your conviction, you never stopped fighting for the truth despite the overwhelming propaganda of lies they spread, and you never… <a href="https://t.co/t8mnyjWnCh">pic.twitter.com/t8mnyjWnCh</a>
— Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankagandhi/status/1798236583352557855?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-hits-out-at-bjp-accuses-pm-modi-of-capturing-cbi-and-ed-728744">Also read:&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi hits out at BJP, accuses PM Modi of capturing CBI and ED</a>

<h2>Congress puts out stellar show in Lok Sabha polls 2024</h2>

Congress put out on display an outstanding growth in over a decade in this year's Lok Sabha polls, defying all that the exit polls and BJP had predicted.

The grand old party won 99 seats, showing a jump in its tally of 52 registered during the 2019 Lok Sabha polls and 44 in 2014.&nbsp;

Gandhi triumphed in the Wayanad parliamentary constituency in Kerala as he polled 647,445 votes and won by a margin of 364,422.

His closest rival Annie Raja of the Communist Party of India (CPI) garnered&nbsp;283,023 votes. BJP candidate K Surendran came in third with 141,045 votes, trailing Gandhi by 506,400 votes.

This was in addition to Gandhi's impressive win in Uttar Pradesh's Rae Bareli where he currently holds&nbsp;the highest winning margin in the state. According to Election Commission data, Gandhi defeated BJP's Dinesh Pratap Singh by 390,030 votes.

<h2>Gandhi says 'haven't decided yet' on which seat to retain</h2>

The Congress leader in a press briefing after winning both seats said that he is yet to finalise his decision on which constituency to retain.

"I have won from Rae Bareli and Wayanad and I thank the voters. I need to decide which seat I will retain. I haven't decided yet," Gandhi said.

"The people of UP understood the politics of the country and the danger to the Constitution, and they safeguarded the Constitution. I want to thank all the states but I would especially thank Uttar Pradesh. I thank them for supporting the Congress party and the INDIA alliance," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Wednesday (June 5) penned an emotional note for brother Rahul after he won both Lok Sabha seats, Rae Bareli and Wayanad.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Wednesday (June 5) penned an emotional note for brother Rahul after he won both Lok Sabha seats, Rae Bareli and Wayanad. Taking to her official X handle, she heaped praises on Rahul for fighting the electoral contest with "love, truth and kindness" despite his conviction being doubted. "You kept standing, no matter what they said and did to you...you never backed down whatever the odds, never stopped believing however much they doubted your conviction, you never stopped fighting for the truth despite the overwhelming propaganda of lies they spread, and you never allowed anger and hatred to overcome you, even when they gifted it to you every day," Priyanka wrote in a post on X. "You fought with love, truth and kindness in your heart. Those who could not see you, see you now, but some of us have always seen and known you to be the bravest of all. Bhai Rahul Gandhi, I am proud to be your sister," she added. You kept standing, no matter what they said and did to you…you never backed down whatever the odds, never stopped believing however much they doubted your conviction, you never stopped fighting for the truth despite the overwhelming propaganda of lies they spread, and you never… pic.twitter.com/t8mnyjWnCh — Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) June 5, 2024 × Also read: Rahul Gandhi hits out at BJP, accuses PM Modi of capturing CBI and ED Congress puts out stellar show in Lok Sabha polls 2024 Congress put out on display an outstanding growth in over a decade in this year's Lok Sabha polls, defying all that the exit polls and BJP had predicted. The grand old party won 99 seats, showing a jump in its tally of 52 registered during the 2019 Lok Sabha polls and 44 in 2014. Gandhi triumphed in the Wayanad parliamentary constituency in Kerala as he polled 647,445 votes and won by a margin of 364,422. His closest rival Annie Raja of the Communist Party of India (CPI) garnered 283,023 votes. BJP candidate K Surendran came in third with 141,045 votes, trailing Gandhi by 506,400 votes. This was in addition to Gandhi's impressive win in Uttar Pradesh's Rae Bareli where he currently holds the highest winning margin in the state. According to Election Commission data, Gandhi defeated BJP's Dinesh Pratap Singh by 390,030 votes. Gandhi says 'haven't decided yet' on which seat to retain The Congress leader in a press briefing after winning both seats said that he is yet to finalise his decision on which constituency to retain. "I have won from Rae Bareli and Wayanad and I thank the voters. I need to decide which seat I will retain. I haven't decided yet," Gandhi said. "The people of UP understood the politics of the country and the danger to the Constitution, and they safeguarded the Constitution. I want to thank all the states but I would especially thank Uttar Pradesh. I thank them for supporting the Congress party and the INDIA alliance," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Priyanka Gandhi pens emotional note for brother Rahul as he wins two Lok Sabha seats; 'You fought with love'

Rahul Gandhi, the prominent contender representing the Congress party for the Rae Bareli seat in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, electrified the atmosphere with his speech during a bustling rally in the heart of the Uttar Pradesh constituency on Monday (May 13). During his speech, the crowd&nbsp;engaged in playful banter, teasing Rahul Gandhi about his marital status and&nbsp;prodding him about his plans to enter wedlock.&nbsp;

“Ab jaldi hi karni padegi&nbsp;(now, I will have to get married soon),”&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi&nbsp;responded with a smile when asked when he was getting married.&nbsp;

Watch the video here:

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VIDEO | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Here's how Congress leader Rahul Gandhi (<a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a>) responded when people asked him about his marriage during a public gathering in UP's Raebareli. 
 
"Now, I will have to get married soon."<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LSPolls2024WithPTI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LSPolls2024WithPTI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2024</a> 
 
(Full… <a href="https://t.co/eTkGhsW87L">pic.twitter.com/eTkGhsW87L</a>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1789926661955141672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Rahul Gandhi's sister and fellow Congress leader, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, also attended the rally in Rae Bareli. On May 3, the Congress party announced Rahul Gandhi as their candidate for Rae Bareli and KL Sharma for Amethi, leaving out Priyanka Gandhi and Robert Vadra from the election race.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-offers-langar-at-patnas-historic-gurdwara-720845">Also read |&nbsp;Indian PM Modi offers langar at Patna's historic gurdwara</a>

Rae Bareli, a stronghold of the Gandhi family, has a rich political history. Sonia Gandhi contested and won the Amethi seat in 1999 before passing it on to Rahul in 2004. Prior to Sonia Gandhi's tenure, former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi won the&nbsp;Rae Bareli seat three times. The constituency also elected Indira's husband and Congress leader Feroze Gandhi twice, in 1952 and 1957.

At Rae Bareli's Maharajganj, Rahul Gandhi said, “...Ours is a 100-year-old relationship with Rae Bareli. A few days ago when I was sitting with my mother, I told her that I said in a video that I have two mothers - Sonia ji and Indira ji. My mother did not like this, but I explained to her that a mother is the one who shows the path to the child and also protects her. Both my mother and Indira Ji did this for me. This is the 'karma-bhoomi' of both my mothers. This is the reason I have come to contest from Rae Bareli.”

Reaching out to farmers, the Congress MP said, “...I promise that if the Congress-INDIA bloc comes to power at the Centre, my first job will be to waive off loans of poor farmers.”

Rahul Gandhi, currently serving as a Member of Parliament from Kerala's Wayanad, is seeking re-election there also while contesting in Rae Bareli. He previously represented Amethi from 2004 to 2019. In Rae Bareli, he will face off against Dinesh Pratap Singh, a former Congress member now with the BJP, who has served as an MLC three times.

Also watch |&nbsp;India general elections 2024: 96 constituencies go to polls in phase 4

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The Rae Bareli constituency is scheduled for voting on May 20 during the fifth phase of the elections.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi, the prominent contender representing the Congress party for the Rae Bareli seat in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, electrified the atmosphere with his speech during a bustling rally in the heart of the Uttar Pradesh constituency on Monday (May 13).

Rahul Gandhi, the prominent contender representing the Congress party for the Rae Bareli seat in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, electrified the atmosphere with his speech during a bustling rally in the heart of the Uttar Pradesh constituency on Monday (May 13). During his speech, the crowd engaged in playful banter, teasing Rahul Gandhi about his marital status and prodding him about his plans to enter wedlock. “Ab jaldi hi karni padegi (now, I will have to get married soon),” Rahul Gandhi responded with a smile when asked when he was getting married. Watch the video here: VIDEO | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Here's how Congress leader Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) responded when people asked him about his marriage during a public gathering in UP's Raebareli. "Now, I will have to get married soon."#LSPolls2024WithPTI #LokSabhaElections2024 (Full… pic.twitter.com/eTkGhsW87L — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 13, 2024 × Rahul Gandhi's sister and fellow Congress leader, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, also attended the rally in Rae Bareli. On May 3, the Congress party announced Rahul Gandhi as their candidate for Rae Bareli and KL Sharma for Amethi, leaving out Priyanka Gandhi and Robert Vadra from the election race. Also read | Indian PM Modi offers langar at Patna's historic gurdwara Rae Bareli, a stronghold of the Gandhi family, has a rich political history. Sonia Gandhi contested and won the Amethi seat in 1999 before passing it on to Rahul in 2004. Prior to Sonia Gandhi's tenure, former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi won the Rae Bareli seat three times. The constituency also elected Indira's husband and Congress leader Feroze Gandhi twice, in 1952 and 1957. At Rae Bareli's Maharajganj, Rahul Gandhi said, “...Ours is a 100-year-old relationship with Rae Bareli. A few days ago when I was sitting with my mother, I told her that I said in a video that I have two mothers - Sonia ji and Indira ji. My mother did not like this, but I explained to her that a mother is the one who shows the path to the child and also protects her. Both my mother and Indira Ji did this for me. This is the 'karma-bhoomi' of both my mothers. This is the reason I have come to contest from Rae Bareli.” Reaching out to farmers, the Congress MP said, “...I promise that if the Congress-INDIA bloc comes to power at the Centre, my first job will be to waive off loans of poor farmers.” Rahul Gandhi, currently serving as a Member of Parliament from Kerala's Wayanad, is seeking re-election there also while contesting in Rae Bareli. He previously represented Amethi from 2004 to 2019. In Rae Bareli, he will face off against Dinesh Pratap Singh, a former Congress member now with the BJP, who has served as an MLC three times. Also watch | India general elections 2024: 96 constituencies go to polls in phase 4 The Rae Bareli constituency is scheduled for voting on May 20 during the fifth phase of the elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Is Rahul Gandhi tying the knot? This is what he said at rally held in Rae Bareli

The Central Election Committee of&nbsp;India’s&nbsp;main opposition Congress party is all set to finalise candidates on two of its strongholds in&nbsp;the state of&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh: Amethi and Raebareli. A meeting will&nbsp;be held&nbsp;Saturday (Apr 27)&nbsp;and&nbsp;the decision could&nbsp;be taken&nbsp;tomorrow.&nbsp;All Congress cadres&nbsp;would be eagerly waiting for&nbsp;the meeting to conclude as the committee will decide whether&nbsp;former party president Rahul Gandhi will be fielded&nbsp;from Amethi.&nbsp;There are also speculations that&nbsp;Rahul’s&nbsp;sister and Congress General&nbsp;Secretary&nbsp;Priyanka Gandhi&nbsp;Vadra&nbsp;may&nbsp;be fielded&nbsp;from the Raebareli seat.

It is to&nbsp;be noted&nbsp;that Gandhi is already contesting elections in the Wayanad constituency in the southern Indian state of Kerala. If&nbsp;Priyanka’s&nbsp;name&nbsp;is finalised&nbsp;from Raebareli, it would be her political debut.

Earlier, the state election committee of&nbsp;Congress's&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh unit had proposed the names of Rahul Gandhi from Amethi and Priyanka Gandhi from Raebareli.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiT5aCqruCFAxWW1DgGHZlEBJoQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-heatwave-warning-issued-in-many-states-going-to-polls-in-second-phase-715314" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-heatwave-warning-issued-in-many-states-going-to-polls-in-second-phase-715314&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiT5aCqruCFAxWW1DgGHZlEBJoQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Heatwave warning issued in many states going to polls in second phase</a>

It was reported&nbsp;that the decision could&nbsp;be taken&nbsp;in the last meeting of the CEC itself&nbsp;but&nbsp;later&nbsp;the decision was left to the Gandhi family.

<h2>Both seats bastions of Congress</h2>

Notably, both Amethi and Raebareli are&nbsp;Congress’s&nbsp;bastions. Rahul Gandhi represented Amethi as a Member of Parliament (MP) for 15 years till 2019 but lost to&nbsp;BJP’s&nbsp;Smriti Irani last time.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiT5aCqruCFAxWW1DgGHZlEBJoQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-tripura-leads-voter-turnout-with-7753-per-cent-till-5pm-up-records-lowest-715436" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-tripura-leads-voter-turnout-with-7753-per-cent-till-5pm-up-records-lowest-715436&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiT5aCqruCFAxWW1DgGHZlEBJoQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE">Lok Sabha polls: Tripura leads voter turnout with 77.53 per cent till 5 pm, UP numbers lowest</a>

On the other hand, former Congress chief and&nbsp;Rahul’s&nbsp;mother&nbsp;Sonia&nbsp;Gandhi&nbsp;represented Raebareli for several terms&nbsp;but&nbsp;now&nbsp;the seat stands vacated as Sonia has&nbsp;been nominated&nbsp;to the upper house of the Indian Parliament, Rajya Sabha.

<h2>Robert Vadra offers prayers in&nbsp;Rishikesh</h2>

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Sonia’s&nbsp;son-in-law and&nbsp;Priyanka’s&nbsp;husband&nbsp;Robert&nbsp;Vadra&nbsp;on&nbsp;Friday&nbsp;offered prayers in Rishikesh and prayed for the safety of Rahul and Priyanka.&nbsp;

“The visit here has given me power and I prayed for the safety of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi while campaigning. I prayed for an environment of peace in the country and that the feeling of brotherhood remains. Keep religion and politics completely separate,”&nbsp;Vadra said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Central Election Committee of India’s main opposition Congress party is all set to finalise candidates on two of its strongholds in the state of Uttar Pradesh: Amethi and Raebareli.

The Central Election Committee of India’s main opposition Congress party is all set to finalise candidates on two of its strongholds in the state of Uttar Pradesh: Amethi and Raebareli. A meeting will be held Saturday (Apr 27) and the decision could be taken tomorrow. All Congress cadres would be eagerly waiting for the meeting to conclude as the committee will decide whether former party president Rahul Gandhi will be fielded from Amethi. There are also speculations that Rahul’s sister and Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra may be fielded from the Raebareli seat. It is to be noted that Gandhi is already contesting elections in the Wayanad constituency in the southern Indian state of Kerala. If Priyanka’s name is finalised from Raebareli, it would be her political debut. Earlier, the state election committee of Congress's Uttar Pradesh unit had proposed the names of Rahul Gandhi from Amethi and Priyanka Gandhi from Raebareli. Also read: Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Heatwave warning issued in many states going to polls in second phase It was reported that the decision could be taken in the last meeting of the CEC itself but later the decision was left to the Gandhi family. Both seats bastions of Congress Notably, both Amethi and Raebareli are Congress’s bastions. Rahul Gandhi represented Amethi as a Member of Parliament (MP) for 15 years till 2019 but lost to BJP’s Smriti Irani last time. Also read: Lok Sabha polls: Tripura leads voter turnout with 77.53 per cent till 5 pm, UP numbers lowest On the other hand, former Congress chief and Rahul’s mother Sonia Gandhi represented Raebareli for several terms but now the seat stands vacated as Sonia has been nominated to the upper house of the Indian Parliament, Rajya Sabha. Robert Vadra offers prayers in Rishikesh Meanwhile, Sonia’s son-in-law and Priyanka’s husband Robert Vadra on Friday offered prayers in Rishikesh and prayed for the safety of Rahul and Priyanka. “The visit here has given me power and I prayed for the safety of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi while campaigning. I prayed for an environment of peace in the country and that the feeling of brotherhood remains. Keep religion and politics completely separate,” Vadra said. (With inputs from agencies)

Congress to decide whether to field Rahul, Priyanka from Amethi, Raebareli on Saturday

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, as per Indian media reports, will likely be contesting in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections from Amethi in northern state of Uttar Pradesh, besides Wayanad in the southern state of Kerala which goes to polls on Friday (Apr 26).&nbsp;

The reports come even as posters featuring Gandhi's brother-in-law Robert Vadra were spotted outside the Congress party office in the Gauriganj area of Amethi. The posters had fuelled speculations that Vadra could potentially be contesting elections from the traditional Nehru-Gandhi family bastion constituency.

The posters read, "Amethi ki janta kare pukar, Robert Vadra ab ki baar", which roughly translates to "the people of Amethi want Robert Vadra this time".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-smriti-irani-reacts-sarcastically-to-amethi-wants-robert-vadra-posters-714573">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Smriti Irani reacts sarcastically to ‘Amethi wants Robert Vadra’ posters</a>

Citing sources, reports also suggested that RaGa's sister Priyanka Gandhi might be contesting from Rae Bareli, the seat vacated by her mother and Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, who chose the Rajya Sabha route to reach parliament.

However, the Congress party is yet to announce a decision even as&nbsp;the nomination deadline is fast approaching.

The final decision will reportedly be taken after April 26. The nomination deadline is May 3.&nbsp;

<h2>Amethi constituency: Congress pocket borough-turned BJP seat</h2>

As per the Election Commission schedule, Amethi constituency will vote in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections, that is set to take place on May 20.

In Amethi, Rahul Gandhi would have to face Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate and&nbsp;Union Minister Smriti Irani.

As per ANI news agency, if nominated, Gandhi "will not find the going easy in his erstwhile bastion" as Irani has been campaigning extensively in the constituency.

Earlier this month, she even questioned Rahul Gandhi's loyalty to Amethi.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-phase-2-schedule-key-candidates-and-constituencies-voting-on-april-26-714805">Lok Sabha Elections 2024, Phase 2: Schedule, key candidates and constituencies voting on April 26</a>

Speaking at a news conference on April 8, Smriti Irani said: "BJP workers know that the Gandhi family will come to contest elections from Amethi. PM Narendra Modi sends ration to 19 lakh (1.9 million) citizens in Amethi Lok Sabha constituency. If the Gandhi family is against Narendra Modi, so these 19 lakh citizens who are getting free ration, what will the Gandhi family say to these families?"

"I went to Wayanad a few days ago and got the information that Rahul Gandhi has declared Wayanad as his family...Yesterday a Congress leader said that Rahul Gandhi chose Wayanad because Rahul Gandhi says that the people of Wayanad are more loyal. So what about the loyalty of Amethi?" she added.&nbsp;

<h2>Rae Bareli constituency</h2>

The Rae Bareli Lok Sabha constituency will also vote in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections on May 20.&nbsp;

It has been a Congress bastion since 1960, with both Feroze Gandhi and Indira Gandhi having represented it.

Since 2006, it has been held by Sonia Gandhi. As per reports, as Sonia moves to the upper house Rajya Sabha, the Congress is likely to field Priyanka Gandhi, who is a general secretary of the party.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, as per Indian media reports, will likely be contesting in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections from Amethi in northern state of Uttar Pradesh, besides Wayanad in the southern state of Kerala which goes to polls on Friday (Apr 26).

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, as per Indian media reports, will likely be contesting in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections from Amethi in northern state of Uttar Pradesh, besides Wayanad in the southern state of Kerala which goes to polls on Friday (Apr 26). The reports come even as posters featuring Gandhi's brother-in-law Robert Vadra were spotted outside the Congress party office in the Gauriganj area of Amethi. The posters had fuelled speculations that Vadra could potentially be contesting elections from the traditional Nehru-Gandhi family bastion constituency. The posters read, "Amethi ki janta kare pukar, Robert Vadra ab ki baar", which roughly translates to "the people of Amethi want Robert Vadra this time". Also read | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Smriti Irani reacts sarcastically to ‘Amethi wants Robert Vadra’ posters Citing sources, reports also suggested that RaGa's sister Priyanka Gandhi might be contesting from Rae Bareli, the seat vacated by her mother and Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, who chose the Rajya Sabha route to reach parliament. However, the Congress party is yet to announce a decision even as the nomination deadline is fast approaching. The final decision will reportedly be taken after April 26. The nomination deadline is May 3. Amethi constituency: Congress pocket borough-turned BJP seat As per the Election Commission schedule, Amethi constituency will vote in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections, that is set to take place on May 20. In Amethi, Rahul Gandhi would have to face Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate and Union Minister Smriti Irani. As per ANI news agency, if nominated, Gandhi "will not find the going easy in his erstwhile bastion" as Irani has been campaigning extensively in the constituency. Earlier this month, she even questioned Rahul Gandhi's loyalty to Amethi. Also read | Lok Sabha Elections 2024, Phase 2: Schedule, key candidates and constituencies voting on April 26 Speaking at a news conference on April 8, Smriti Irani said: "BJP workers know that the Gandhi family will come to contest elections from Amethi. PM Narendra Modi sends ration to 19 lakh (1.9 million) citizens in Amethi Lok Sabha constituency. If the Gandhi family is against Narendra Modi, so these 19 lakh citizens who are getting free ration, what will the Gandhi family say to these families?" "I went to Wayanad a few days ago and got the information that Rahul Gandhi has declared Wayanad as his family...Yesterday a Congress leader said that Rahul Gandhi chose Wayanad because Rahul Gandhi says that the people of Wayanad are more loyal. So what about the loyalty of Amethi?" she added. Rae Bareli constituency The Rae Bareli Lok Sabha constituency will also vote in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections on May 20. It has been a Congress bastion since 1960, with both Feroze Gandhi and Indira Gandhi having represented it. Since 2006, it has been held by Sonia Gandhi. As per reports, as Sonia moves to the upper house Rajya Sabha, the Congress is likely to field Priyanka Gandhi, who is a general secretary of the party. (With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi vs Robert Vadra? Reports suggest RaGa will contest from Amethi even as posters promote Vadra

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi on Saturday (Apr 20) launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stating that BJP leaders wish to bring changes to the Constitution which was "written in letters of the blood of our freedom fighters".

While addressing a rally in Thrissur, Kerala, Priyanka alleged that for "PM Modi's men", the Constitution was an instrument to satisfy their political ambition and greed.

"In this so-called New India, the Prime Minister's men are going around and speaking haughtily about bringing changes to our Constitution, which was written in letters of the blood of our freedom fighters. They treat the Constitution, which upholds our right to liberty, equality, and brotherhood, as an instrument to fulfil their own greed and ambition. To them, it is nothing but pages that mean nothing," Priyanka claimed.

She further said that under the NDA rule, the foundation of the country stands on the threshold of destruction.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-takes-a-swipe-at-rahul-gandhi-says-congress-sahabzade-will-lose-wayanad-seat-713382">PM Modi takes a swipe at Rahul Gandhi, says Congress' 'sahabzade' will lose Wayanad seat</a>

"The very foundation of our country stands on the threshold of destruction today. I know that some would say that this is not so. In fact, they say this is a new India, one that has given the country a new global identity. To them, I would say that if this is true, we should all accept the will of the people (in the elections) and the new India, even if it rises from the ashes of the old," the Congress leader said.

"Let's not be in any illusion about this so-called new India, which is being sold to the people, and what it stands for," she added.

The Congress leader further hit out at PM Modi stating that the policies that were being framed today were done with an aim to benefit the&nbsp;prime minister's industry 'cronies'.

"National assets that belong to us all, assets that were built with the blood, sweat and toil of our people are being handed over to the PM's billionaire friends with impunity. Airports, ports, highways, vast tracts of public land, industrial establishments in key sectors such as cement, power and coal are virtually controlled by just a handful of businessmen close to the PM,"&nbsp;said Priyanka Gandhi.

(With inputs from agencies)

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi on Saturday (Apr 20) launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stating that BJP leaders wish to bring changes to the Constitution which was "written in letters of the blood of our freedom fighters".

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi on Saturday (Apr 20) launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stating that BJP leaders wish to bring changes to the Constitution which was "written in letters of the blood of our freedom fighters". While addressing a rally in Thrissur, Kerala, Priyanka alleged that for "PM Modi's men", the Constitution was an instrument to satisfy their political ambition and greed. "In this so-called New India, the Prime Minister's men are going around and speaking haughtily about bringing changes to our Constitution, which was written in letters of the blood of our freedom fighters. They treat the Constitution, which upholds our right to liberty, equality, and brotherhood, as an instrument to fulfil their own greed and ambition. To them, it is nothing but pages that mean nothing," Priyanka claimed. She further said that under the NDA rule, the foundation of the country stands on the threshold of destruction. Also read: PM Modi takes a swipe at Rahul Gandhi, says Congress' 'sahabzade' will lose Wayanad seat "The very foundation of our country stands on the threshold of destruction today. I know that some would say that this is not so. In fact, they say this is a new India, one that has given the country a new global identity. To them, I would say that if this is true, we should all accept the will of the people (in the elections) and the new India, even if it rises from the ashes of the old," the Congress leader said. "Let's not be in any illusion about this so-called new India, which is being sold to the people, and what it stands for," she added. The Congress leader further hit out at PM Modi stating that the policies that were being framed today were done with an aim to benefit the prime minister's industry 'cronies'. "National assets that belong to us all, assets that were built with the blood, sweat and toil of our people are being handed over to the PM's billionaire friends with impunity. Airports, ports, highways, vast tracts of public land, industrial establishments in key sectors such as cement, power and coal are virtually controlled by just a handful of businessmen close to the PM," said Priyanka Gandhi. (With inputs from agencies)

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi lashes out at BJP, says 'PM Modi's men treat Constitution as worthless'

With Lok Sabha elections drawing closer, the opposition INDIA alliance listed out its five demands at the ‘Loktantra Bachao Rally’ in New Delhi on Sunday (Mar 31) stating that the Election Commission of India should ensure fair&nbsp;play during the polls for all parties.

The bloc exuded confidence while asserting that despite the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) creating “undemocratic obstacles”, the alliance will keep making dedicated efforts to win the polls and save the country’s democracy.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra read out the demands and called for the poll panel to bar the CBI, the Enforcement Directorate and the Income Tax department’s actions against opposition parties, which she claimed were deliberately taken to impact the elections negatively.

She further demanded the immediate release of former Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
INDIA गठबंधन की 5 सूत्रीय मांग 
 
1. चुनाव आयोग को लोकसभा चुनावों में समान अवसर सुनिश्चित करना चाहिए 
 
2. चुनाव आयोग को चुनाव में हेराफेरी करने के उद्देश्य से विपक्षी दलों के खिलाफ जांच एजेंसियों द्वारा की जानी वाली कार्रवाई रोकी जानी चाहिए 
 
3. हेमंत सोरेन जी और अरविन्द केजरीवाल जी… <a href="https://t.co/QntVuwhGWF">pic.twitter.com/QntVuwhGWF</a>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1774382780115238953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwals-arrest-unites-indian-opposition-at-the-site-of-his-political-birthplace-706214">Opposition unites at INDIA bloc rally over Kejriwal’s arrest to take on BJP</a>

<h2>5 demands of INDIA alliance</h2>

1. The Election Commission should ensure a level playing field in Lok Sabha elections

2. The Election Commission should stop action taken by investigative agencies against opposition parties with the aim of rigging elections

3. Hemant Soren and Arvind Kejriwal should be released immediately

4. The coercive action of financially strangling opposition political parties during elections must stop immediately

5. A Supreme Court-monitored SIT must be formed to investigate allegations of vendetta, extortion and money laundering by the BJP using election funds

In her remarks before reading out the INDIA bloc’s demands, she said, “I have been coming to Ramlila Maidan since childhood. Every year Ravan’s effigy is set on fire.”&nbsp;

“When I was a kid, I used to come (here) with my grandmother Indira Ji and she used to narrate the Ramayana to me. Those in power today call themselves Ram Bhakts. When I was sitting here I thought that I should say something to them. I want to remind them of the 1,000-year-old tale and its message,” she said.&nbsp;

“When Lord Ram fought for truth, he did not have power, resources or even a chariot. Ravan had chariots, resources, army and gold but Lord Ram had truth, hope, belief, love, kindness, modesty, patience, courage and truth. I want to tell those in power and PM Narendra Modi that the message of Lord Ram’s life is that power is not permanent… and arrogance gets shattered,” she&nbsp;added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

With Lok Sabha elections drawing closer, the opposition INDIA alliance listed out its five demands at the ‘Loktantra Bachao Rally’ in New Delhi on Sunday (Mar 31) stating that the Election Commission of India should ensure fair play during the polls for all parties.

With Lok Sabha elections drawing closer, the opposition INDIA alliance listed out its five demands at the ‘Loktantra Bachao Rally’ in New Delhi on Sunday (Mar 31) stating that the Election Commission of India should ensure fair play during the polls for all parties. The bloc exuded confidence while asserting that despite the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) creating “undemocratic obstacles”, the alliance will keep making dedicated efforts to win the polls and save the country’s democracy. Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra read out the demands and called for the poll panel to bar the CBI, the Enforcement Directorate and the Income Tax department’s actions against opposition parties, which she claimed were deliberately taken to impact the elections negatively. She further demanded the immediate release of former Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal. INDIA गठबंधन की 5 सूत्रीय मांग 1. चुनाव आयोग को लोकसभा चुनावों में समान अवसर सुनिश्चित करना चाहिए 2. चुनाव आयोग को चुनाव में हेराफेरी करने के उद्देश्य से विपक्षी दलों के खिलाफ जांच एजेंसियों द्वारा की जानी वाली कार्रवाई रोकी जानी चाहिए 3. हेमंत सोरेन जी और अरविन्द केजरीवाल जी… pic.twitter.com/QntVuwhGWF — Congress (@INCIndia) March 31, 2024 × Also read: Opposition unites at INDIA bloc rally over Kejriwal’s arrest to take on BJP 5 demands of INDIA alliance 1. The Election Commission should ensure a level playing field in Lok Sabha elections 2. The Election Commission should stop action taken by investigative agencies against opposition parties with the aim of rigging elections 3. Hemant Soren and Arvind Kejriwal should be released immediately 4. The coercive action of financially strangling opposition political parties during elections must stop immediately 5. A Supreme Court-monitored SIT must be formed to investigate allegations of vendetta, extortion and money laundering by the BJP using election funds In her remarks before reading out the INDIA bloc’s demands, she said, “I have been coming to Ramlila Maidan since childhood. Every year Ravan’s effigy is set on fire.” “When I was a kid, I used to come (here) with my grandmother Indira Ji and she used to narrate the Ramayana to me. Those in power today call themselves Ram Bhakts. When I was sitting here I thought that I should say something to them. I want to remind them of the 1,000-year-old tale and its message,” she said. “When Lord Ram fought for truth, he did not have power, resources or even a chariot. Ravan had chariots, resources, army and gold but Lord Ram had truth, hope, belief, love, kindness, modesty, patience, courage and truth. I want to tell those in power and PM Narendra Modi that the message of Lord Ram’s life is that power is not permanent… and arrogance gets shattered,” she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls: Priyanka Gandhi reads out INDIA bloc’s five demands to Election Commission at mega rally

Sonia Gandhi, former president of the Indian National Congress, is likely to contest the Rajya Sabha election,&nbsp;making way for her daughter Priyanka Gandhi to contest from Rae Bareli, according to multiple media reports. The constituency in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh is the traditional stronghold of the Gandhi family. If elected, this will be Sonia Gandhi's first term in the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of Parliament of India. She has served five terms as a lawmaker in Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Indian parliament.&nbsp;

For Priyanka Gandhi, this will be her first contest in the electoral arena. The Rajya Sabha elections are due on February 27. Candidates would have to fill out nomination forms by&nbsp;February 15.

While NDTV reported that Sonia Gandhi will likely contest the Rajya Sabha election from Rajasthan, Press Trust of India&nbsp;reported that Gandhi will contest from Himachal Pradesh.

An official announcement in this matter has not been made as of now.

The Congress has yet to name Rajya Sabha candidates. The party is yet to do so in states like Karnataka, Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan and Maharashtra.

Watch | Gravitas | Another snub to I.N.D.I.A bloc: Why Congress cut short Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra?

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Congress leaders from Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh have urged Sonia Gandhi to contest Rajya Sabha elections from their states.

In Madhya Pradesh, the state unit president Jitu Patwari was quoted in media reports as saying that the Madhya Pradesh Congress unit would be happy if Sonia Gandhi contests the election from the state. Patwari also said that if veteran party leader Kamal Nath decides to contest the election, the state unit would support him.

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Meanwhile, the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajasthan Assembly, Tika Ram Jully urged Gandhi to contest Rajya Sabha elections from Rajasthan.

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"We have requested the national president and the high command to nominate Sonia Gandhi to the Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan. If she is elected from here, all the Congress workers from the state will be very happy," he said, as quoted by Mint.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sonia Gandhi, former president of the Indian National Congress, is likely to contest the Rajya Sabha election, making way for her daughter Priyanka Gandhi to contest from Rae Bareli, according to multiple media reports.

Sonia Gandhi, former president of the Indian National Congress, is likely to contest the Rajya Sabha election, making way for her daughter Priyanka Gandhi to contest from Rae Bareli, according to multiple media reports. The constituency in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh is the traditional stronghold of the Gandhi family. If elected, this will be Sonia Gandhi's first term in the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of Parliament of India. She has served five terms as a lawmaker in Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Indian parliament. For Priyanka Gandhi, this will be her first contest in the electoral arena. The Rajya Sabha elections are due on February 27. Candidates would have to fill out nomination forms by February 15. While NDTV reported that Sonia Gandhi will likely contest the Rajya Sabha election from Rajasthan, Press Trust of India reported that Gandhi will contest from Himachal Pradesh. An official announcement in this matter has not been made as of now. The Congress has yet to name Rajya Sabha candidates. The party is yet to do so in states like Karnataka, Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan and Maharashtra. Watch | Gravitas | Another snub to I.N.D.I.A bloc: Why Congress cut short Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra? × Congress leaders from Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh have urged Sonia Gandhi to contest Rajya Sabha elections from their states. In Madhya Pradesh, the state unit president Jitu Patwari was quoted in media reports as saying that the Madhya Pradesh Congress unit would be happy if Sonia Gandhi contests the election from the state. Patwari also said that if veteran party leader Kamal Nath decides to contest the election, the state unit would support him. Also Read | Farmers remain adamant for 'Delhi Chalo' march. Here's how protest differs from the 2020 stir Meanwhile, the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajasthan Assembly, Tika Ram Jully urged Gandhi to contest Rajya Sabha elections from Rajasthan. Also Read | PM Modi to inaugurate first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi | Check full schedule, details "We have requested the national president and the high command to nominate Sonia Gandhi to the Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan. If she is elected from here, all the Congress workers from the state will be very happy," he said, as quoted by Mint. (With inputs from agencies)

Sonia Gandhi to contest Rajya Sabha elections, Priyanka to get Rae Bareli: Reports

After India's Directorate of Enforcement (ED) named Priyanka Gandhi in its charge sheet in a money laundering case, Congress leader Pawan Khera indirectly attacked the central government, saying it is just the "beginning" and let them do "conspiracies."

ED named Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi in its charge sheet, mentioning her role in purchasing an agricultural land measuring 40 kanal (five acres) in Haryana's Faridabad from Delhi-based real estate agent HL Pahwa in 2006 and selling the same land to him in February 2010.

Speaking to ANI on Thursday, Congress leader Khera said, "Look at what they'll do ahead of the elections; it's just the beginning. They are not doing it for the first time; they do such conspiracies when elections approach. Let them do conspiracies."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-gifts-solomon-islands-20-buses-for-pacific-games-674543">India gifts Solomon Islands 20 buses for Pacific Games</a>

According to the ED, the land was purchased in Amipur village in Faridabad from Pahwa, the agent with whom Priyanka's husband Robert Vadra also purchased three pieces of land measuring 334 kanals (40.08 acres) in Amipur village from 2005-2006 and sold the same land to him in December 2010.

The agent is the same person who also sold land to NRI businessman CC Thampi. The larger case involves fugitive arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari, who is under investigation by multiple agencies for money laundering, violations of foreign exchange and black money laws, and the Official Secrets Act. He fled India for the UK in 2016. Thampi has been accused of facilitating Bhandari to hide the proceeds of crime, along with Sumit Chadha, a British national.

ED has named Robert Vadra in its earlier charge sheet related to the case as an alleged close aide of Thampi.

In the fresh charge sheet, it is mentioned that Pahwa was receiving cash out of the books for the purpose of acquiring land. "It was also noticed that Robert Vadra did not pay the entire sale consideration to Pahwa."

The ED investigation in this regard is still ongoing. However, a copy of "the ledger accounts in the books of Pahwa reflecting the above-mentioned transactions was taken on record vide letter dated November 17, 2023."

"It is submitted that Robert Vadra incorporated entities with the names of Sky Light Hospitality Pvt Ltd and Sky Light Realty Pvt Ltd in India on November 1, 2007 and November 16, 2007 respectively. The same has been downloaded from the website of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. Whereas, an entity nemed Sky Lite Investment FZE in the UAE was incorporated on April 1, 2009, with CC Thampi as its sole shareholder," mentions the charge sheet.

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"During the course of investigation of Thampi and his Indian eatities in the case bearing no. T-3/219/HQ/2015 being investigated under the provisions of Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 (FEMA), it has been found that Thampi purchased land worth 486 actes (approx.) from 2005 to 2008 in village Amipur in Haryana's Faridabed district through one HL Pahwa, Delhi NCR-based real estate agent."

It is also mentioned in the charge sheet that Robert Vadra incorporated an entity in India with the name Blve Breeze Trading Pvt Ltd on November 1, 2007 which was later converted into an LLP.

"The email ID of the said entity has always remained as bivebreezetrading@zmall.com ic. when it was a Private limited entity and later when it got converted into an LLP. The incorporation documents of the said entities were downloaded from the website of Ministry of Corporate Affairs. It is the same email id on which one Beena, an employee of CC Thampi in Dubai, used to communicate in connection with the property at 12 Bryanston Square, London," mentions the charge sheet.

"During the course of investigation in another PMLA case (bearing fo. ECIR/OG/HIU2018) being investigated against Robert Vadra, his entity Sky Light Hospitality Pvt Ltd, and others, it has been found that one Mahesh Nagar, resident of Delhi NCR, represented various entities of Robert Vadre at the time of purchase and sale of various pieces of land in Delhi-NCR and Bikaner, Rajasthan," it pointed.

In a statement, the ED on Tuesday also mentioned Robert Vadra in connection with the purchase of a property in London that is part of the probe.

Detailing the association between Vadra and Thampi, the charge sheet states, "During the course of investigation in this case, it was found that a long and thick relationship exists between CC Thampi and Robert Vadra. Not only a personal or cordial bond but common and similar business interests are also found between them."

Thampi, arrested in January 2020, ostensibly told ED that he knew Vadra for over 10 years and that they met several times during Vadra's visits to the UAE as well as in Delhi.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

After India's Directorate of Enforcement (ED) named Priyanka Gandhi in its charge sheet in a money laundering case, Congress leader Pawan Khera indirectly attacked the central government, saying it is just the "beginning" and let them do "conspiracies.

After India's Directorate of Enforcement (ED) named Priyanka Gandhi in its charge sheet in a money laundering case, Congress leader Pawan Khera indirectly attacked the central government, saying it is just the "beginning" and let them do "conspiracies." ED named Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi in its charge sheet, mentioning her role in purchasing an agricultural land measuring 40 kanal (five acres) in Haryana's Faridabad from Delhi-based real estate agent HL Pahwa in 2006 and selling the same land to him in February 2010. Speaking to ANI on Thursday, Congress leader Khera said, "Look at what they'll do ahead of the elections; it's just the beginning. They are not doing it for the first time; they do such conspiracies when elections approach. Let them do conspiracies." Also read | India gifts Solomon Islands 20 buses for Pacific Games According to the ED, the land was purchased in Amipur village in Faridabad from Pahwa, the agent with whom Priyanka's husband Robert Vadra also purchased three pieces of land measuring 334 kanals (40.08 acres) in Amipur village from 2005-2006 and sold the same land to him in December 2010. The agent is the same person who also sold land to NRI businessman CC Thampi. The larger case involves fugitive arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari, who is under investigation by multiple agencies for money laundering, violations of foreign exchange and black money laws, and the Official Secrets Act. He fled India for the UK in 2016. Thampi has been accused of facilitating Bhandari to hide the proceeds of crime, along with Sumit Chadha, a British national. ED has named Robert Vadra in its earlier charge sheet related to the case as an alleged close aide of Thampi. In the fresh charge sheet, it is mentioned that Pahwa was receiving cash out of the books for the purpose of acquiring land. "It was also noticed that Robert Vadra did not pay the entire sale consideration to Pahwa." The ED investigation in this regard is still ongoing. However, a copy of "the ledger accounts in the books of Pahwa reflecting the above-mentioned transactions was taken on record vide letter dated November 17, 2023." "It is submitted that Robert Vadra incorporated entities with the names of Sky Light Hospitality Pvt Ltd and Sky Light Realty Pvt Ltd in India on November 1, 2007 and November 16, 2007 respectively. The same has been downloaded from the website of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. Whereas, an entity nemed Sky Lite Investment FZE in the UAE was incorporated on April 1, 2009, with CC Thampi as its sole shareholder," mentions the charge sheet. Also read | IMD issues red alert for dense fog in north India as travel remains chaotic "During the course of investigation of Thampi and his Indian eatities in the case bearing no. T-3/219/HQ/2015 being investigated under the provisions of Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 (FEMA), it has been found that Thampi purchased land worth 486 actes (approx.) from 2005 to 2008 in village Amipur in Haryana's Faridabed district through one HL Pahwa, Delhi NCR-based real estate agent." It is also mentioned in the charge sheet that Robert Vadra incorporated an entity in India with the name Blve Breeze Trading Pvt Ltd on November 1, 2007 which was later converted into an LLP. "The email ID of the said entity has always remained as bivebreezetrading@zmall.com ic. when it was a Private limited entity and later when it got converted into an LLP. The incorporation documents of the said entities were downloaded from the website of Ministry of Corporate Affairs. It is the same email id on which one Beena, an employee of CC Thampi in Dubai, used to communicate in connection with the property at 12 Bryanston Square, London," mentions the charge sheet. "During the course of investigation in another PMLA case (bearing fo. ECIR/OG/HIU2018) being investigated against Robert Vadra, his entity Sky Light Hospitality Pvt Ltd, and others, it has been found that one Mahesh Nagar, resident of Delhi NCR, represented various entities of Robert Vadre at the time of purchase and sale of various pieces of land in Delhi-NCR and Bikaner, Rajasthan," it pointed. In a statement, the ED on Tuesday also mentioned Robert Vadra in connection with the purchase of a property in London that is part of the probe. Detailing the association between Vadra and Thampi, the charge sheet states, "During the course of investigation in this case, it was found that a long and thick relationship exists between CC Thampi and Robert Vadra. Not only a personal or cordial bond but common and similar business interests are also found between them." Thampi, arrested in January 2020, ostensibly told ED that he knew Vadra for over 10 years and that they met several times during Vadra's visits to the UAE as well as in Delhi. (With inputs from agencies)

'Let them do conspiracies': Congress hits out at BJP after Priyanka Gandhi Vadra named in ED chargesheet

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, along with her husband Robert Vadra, has been named for the first time in Indian Enforcement Directorate's (ED) chargesheet in a money-laundering case, local media reported citing sources.&nbsp;

The reports have added that the chargesheet has been filed against businessman CC Thampi. The document reportedly also added a person named Sumit Chadha, who is said to be a British national of Indian origin.&nbsp;

The case involved a Delhi-based real estate agent HL Pahwa and fugitive arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-wife-stabs-husband-in-eyes-with-scissors-for-demanding-tea-674370">Wife stabs husband in eyes with scissors for demanding tea</a>&nbsp;

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi's name has come up in ED's&nbsp;chargesheet for the first time. The agency has named Robert Vadra often in the case, this time he has been named&nbsp;as a "listed".&nbsp;

The case revolves around the alleged purchase and sale of land in India's northern state of Haryana.&nbsp;

As reported, ED believes that Thampi and Chadha helped Bhandari, who is accused of violating the Official Secrets Act, which is legislation that provides for the protection of state secrets and official information, mainly related to national security.&nbsp;

The agency has referred to Priyanka's transactions with Pahwa, who sold her agricultural land in Faridabad in 2006 and repurchased it four years later.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-what-is-60-kannada-rule-that-led-to-vandalism-in-bengaluru-674355">India: What is 60% Kannada rule that led to vandalism in Bengaluru?</a>&nbsp;

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ED sources have also told news outlet NDTV that in Faridabad's Amipur village, a house was purchased in Priyaka's name in April 2006. It was later sold back to Pahwa at the same time as the land.&nbsp;

Pahwa is the same agent who allegedly sold Robert Vadra 40.8 acres of land in Amipur to him in December 2010.&nbsp;

Previous chargesheets have mentioned a similar deal in which 486 acres were executed by Thampi. Both Thampi and Robert Vadra have been named by the ED in the chargesheet. Thampi was arrested in 2020, but he has been out on bail.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, along with her husband Robert Vadra, has been named for the first time in Indian Enforcement Directorate's (ED) chargesheet in a money-laundering case, local media reported citing sources.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, along with her husband Robert Vadra, has been named for the first time in Indian Enforcement Directorate's (ED) chargesheet in a money-laundering case, local media reported citing sources. The reports have added that the chargesheet has been filed against businessman CC Thampi. The document reportedly also added a person named Sumit Chadha, who is said to be a British national of Indian origin. The case involved a Delhi-based real estate agent HL Pahwa and fugitive arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari. Also read: Wife stabs husband in eyes with scissors for demanding tea Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi's name has come up in ED's chargesheet for the first time. The agency has named Robert Vadra often in the case, this time he has been named as a "listed". The case revolves around the alleged purchase and sale of land in India's northern state of Haryana. As reported, ED believes that Thampi and Chadha helped Bhandari, who is accused of violating the Official Secrets Act, which is legislation that provides for the protection of state secrets and official information, mainly related to national security. The agency has referred to Priyanka's transactions with Pahwa, who sold her agricultural land in Faridabad in 2006 and repurchased it four years later. Also read: India: What is 60% Kannada rule that led to vandalism in Bengaluru? #WATCH | Nagpur: On Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's name in ED chargesheet, Congress leader Pawan Khera says, "Look at what they'll do ahead of the elections, it's just the beginning. They are not doing it for the first time, they do such conspiracies when elections… pic.twitter.com/4taOWjFyc0 — ANI (@ANI) December 28, 2023 × ED sources have also told news outlet NDTV that in Faridabad's Amipur village, a house was purchased in Priyaka's name in April 2006. It was later sold back to Pahwa at the same time as the land. Pahwa is the same agent who allegedly sold Robert Vadra 40.8 acres of land in Amipur to him in December 2010. Previous chargesheets have mentioned a similar deal in which 486 acres were executed by Thampi. Both Thampi and Robert Vadra have been named by the ED in the chargesheet. Thampi was arrested in 2020, but he has been out on bail. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra named for first time in probe agency ED's chargesheet

In its statement, ED said, “Former Congress president Sonia Gandhi’s son-in-law Robert Vadra and daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra bought land in Haryana through a Delhi-based real estate agent who also sold land to NRI businessman CC Thampi."

ED names Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi in money laundering case for the first time

In a major reshuffle ahead of the 2024 general elections in India, the Congress party appointed Sachin Pilot as the general secretary in charge of Chhattisgarh, while Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was removed as the&nbsp;party in-charge of Uttar Pradesh.

Priyanka has been replaced by Avinash Pande&nbsp;as the general secretary in charge of Uttar Pradesh.

The Congress released a statement on the significant development saying that Vadra will now be a general secretary "without any assigned portfolio".

The move comes two days after a meeting of the Congress Working Committee (CWC), party's highest decision-making body, was chaired by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and attended by senior leaders, including Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi.

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<h2>Other developments</h2>

Meanwhile, Ramesh Chennithala was appointed as AICC in-charge of Maharashtra.

Deepa Dasmunshi was appointed as the General Secretary of the Kerala, Lakshadweep and additional charge of Telangana Congress units.&nbsp;

Congress leader GA Mir is the general secretary in charge of Jharkhand with the additional charge of West Bengal, the party said in a statement.

On the other hand, senior leaders Jairam Ramesh, K C Venugopal, Mukul Wasnik and Randeep Singh Surjewala will continue as general secretaries&nbsp;of communication,&nbsp; organisation,&nbsp;Gujarat and Karnataka, respectively.

Bhawar Jitendra Singh was given an additional charge of Madhya Pradesh. Milind Deora and Vijay Inder Singla were appointed as joint treasurers of the party, while Deepak Babaria holds the charge of Delhi and the additional charge of Haryana.

The statement further said that the appointments were made with immediate effect.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a major reshuffle ahead of the 2024 general elections in India, the Congress party appointed Sachin Pilot as the general secretary in charge of Chhattisgarh, while Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was removed as the party in-charge of Uttar Pradesh.

In a major reshuffle ahead of the 2024 general elections in India, the Congress party appointed Sachin Pilot as the general secretary in charge of Chhattisgarh, while Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was removed as the party in-charge of Uttar Pradesh. Priyanka has been replaced by Avinash Pande as the general secretary in charge of Uttar Pradesh. The Congress released a statement on the significant development saying that Vadra will now be a general secretary "without any assigned portfolio". The move comes two days after a meeting of the Congress Working Committee (CWC), party's highest decision-making body, was chaired by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and attended by senior leaders, including Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. Also read: ‘Extremists should not be given space’: India’s Jaishankar reacts to vandalism at Hindu temple in US Other developments Meanwhile, Ramesh Chennithala was appointed as AICC in-charge of Maharashtra. Deepa Dasmunshi was appointed as the General Secretary of the Kerala, Lakshadweep and additional charge of Telangana Congress units. Congress leader GA Mir is the general secretary in charge of Jharkhand with the additional charge of West Bengal, the party said in a statement. On the other hand, senior leaders Jairam Ramesh, K C Venugopal, Mukul Wasnik and Randeep Singh Surjewala will continue as general secretaries of communication, organisation, Gujarat and Karnataka, respectively. Bhawar Jitendra Singh was given an additional charge of Madhya Pradesh. Milind Deora and Vijay Inder Singla were appointed as joint treasurers of the party, while Deepak Babaria holds the charge of Delhi and the additional charge of Haryana. The statement further said that the appointments were made with immediate effect. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Congress relieves Priyanka Gandhi as UP in-charge, Sachin Pilot gets key role ahead of polls

India's Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia&nbsp;fired back at Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's remark on his 'height'&nbsp;after the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Madhya Pradesh had the last laugh at Congress by leading substantially is election result trends and was heading to a comfortable victory. 
 
While speaking to NDTV about the magnificent performance of the BJP in the Gwalior-Malwa region, which is perceived as his area of influence, Scindia said, "Someone had spoken about my height. The people of Gwalior-Malwa have shown how tall they are." 
 
While addressing a rally organised in Datia, Madhya Pradesh last month, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had called her friend-turned-foe "traitor" who "betrayed" the people's mandate.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-bjp-leads-in-three-states-panicked-congress-calls-sudden-india-meet-report-665683">As BJP leads in three states, panicked Congress calls sudden INDIA bloc meet: report</a>

"All of their (the BJP's) leaders are a little weird. First our Scindia... I have worked with him in UP.&nbsp;Actually, his height is a little short but in arrogance, 'waah bhai waah' (too much),” she said. 
 
"Any worker who used to go to him, said, 'We have to call him Maharaj and if we don't say that, our issues will not get addressed'. He followed his family's tradition well. Many have betrayed, but they betrayed the public of Gwalior and Chamba... He made the government fall," the Congress leader added, while apparently making reference to the Scindia royal family taking the side of the British during the 1857 rebellion.

<h2>Scindia's mutiny and litmus test in elections</h2>

In 2020, it was a mutiny headed by Scindia that toppled the Congress government, led by Kamal Nath, in Madhya Pradesh and brought BJP back in power. 
 
Under the Narendra Modi government, the erstwhile royal scion became India's Union Minister for Civil Aviation and a Rajya Sabha member.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Union minister &amp; BJP leader Jyotiraditya Scindia and party leaders celebrate as the party leads in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MadhyaPradeshElection2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MadhyaPradeshElection2023</a> <a href="https://t.co/iDfxkNawph">pic.twitter.com/iDfxkNawph</a>
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The current state elections are being seen as the litmus test for Scindia and if the influence he exerts in the Gwalior region helps the BJP in winning elections. 
 
Scindia said he was confident of BJP winning the elections in the state. “I had said the BJP will win. I want to thank Madhya Pradesh voters who have given us this big majority. Prime Minister Modi's leadership worked and so did the guidance of (Union Home Minister) Amit Shah and (BJP president) JP Nadda," he said while speaking to NDTV.

Watch:&nbsp;Assembly Elections Results: Congress strong-hold in southern India

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Speaking to news agency ANI, Scindia credited the pro-people welfare schemes launched by the incumbent Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan for the victory.

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"Congress was preparing ladoos and congratulatory posters were put up. While we were doing our work quietly...Ladli Behna scheme is a game-changer and the full credit for it goes to Shivraj Singh Chouhan,” Scindia said.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia fired back at Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's remark on his 'height' after the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Madhya Pradesh had the last laugh at Congress by leading substantially is election result trends and was heading to a comfortable victory.

India's Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia fired back at Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's remark on his 'height' after the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Madhya Pradesh had the last laugh at Congress by leading substantially is election result trends and was heading to a comfortable victory. While speaking to NDTV about the magnificent performance of the BJP in the Gwalior-Malwa region, which is perceived as his area of influence, Scindia said, "Someone had spoken about my height. The people of Gwalior-Malwa have shown how tall they are." While addressing a rally organised in Datia, Madhya Pradesh last month, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had called her friend-turned-foe "traitor" who "betrayed" the people's mandate. Also read: As BJP leads in three states, panicked Congress calls sudden INDIA bloc meet: report "All of their (the BJP's) leaders are a little weird. First our Scindia... I have worked with him in UP. Actually, his height is a little short but in arrogance, 'waah bhai waah' (too much),” she said. "Any worker who used to go to him, said, 'We have to call him Maharaj and if we don't say that, our issues will not get addressed'. He followed his family's tradition well. Many have betrayed, but they betrayed the public of Gwalior and Chamba... He made the government fall," the Congress leader added, while apparently making reference to the Scindia royal family taking the side of the British during the 1857 rebellion. Scindia's mutiny and litmus test in elections In 2020, it was a mutiny headed by Scindia that toppled the Congress government, led by Kamal Nath, in Madhya Pradesh and brought BJP back in power. Under the Narendra Modi government, the erstwhile royal scion became India's Union Minister for Civil Aviation and a Rajya Sabha member. #WATCH | Union minister & BJP leader Jyotiraditya Scindia and party leaders celebrate as the party leads in #MadhyaPradeshElection2023 pic.twitter.com/iDfxkNawph — ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2023 × The current state elections are being seen as the litmus test for Scindia and if the influence he exerts in the Gwalior region helps the BJP in winning elections. Scindia said he was confident of BJP winning the elections in the state. “I had said the BJP will win. I want to thank Madhya Pradesh voters who have given us this big majority. Prime Minister Modi's leadership worked and so did the guidance of (Union Home Minister) Amit Shah and (BJP president) JP Nadda," he said while speaking to NDTV. Watch: Assembly Elections Results: Congress strong-hold in southern India Speaking to news agency ANI, Scindia credited the pro-people welfare schemes launched by the incumbent Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan for the victory. #WATCH | On MP election results, Union minister & BJP leader Jyotiraditya Scindia in Bhopal says "Congress was preparing Ladoos and congratulatory posters were put up. While we were doing our work quietly...Ladli Behna scheme is a game-changer and the full credit for it goes to… pic.twitter.com/5m8Sx55DRe — ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2023 × "Congress was preparing ladoos and congratulatory posters were put up. While we were doing our work quietly...Ladli Behna scheme is a game-changer and the full credit for it goes to Shivraj Singh Chouhan,” Scindia said. (With inputs from agencies)

India: As BJP wins in Madhya Pradesh, Scindia hits back at Priyanka Gandhi over 'height' barb

The Election Commission of India&nbsp;has served show-cause notices to Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi, and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for allegedly making false remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The poll panel was acting on a complaint made by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) that Gandhi made "false" and "unverified" statements against Modi at an election rally in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh state.

The BJP further claimed that Gandhi made a "baseless and false" claim that the Narendra Modi government had privatised public sector undertakings.

<h2>Second EC notice to Priyanka&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

This is the second EC notice to Priyanka amid the ongoing Assembly elections.

The poll panel asked her to explain her statement by 8 pm on Thursday (Nov 16).

Similarly, Kejriwal was asked to explain for alleged disparaging remarks made against the PM on his social media handle.

In its notice to the AAP, the EC stated, "The national convener of the Aam Aadmi Party is hereby called upon to explain the statements/allegations/averments, made in the alleged social media posts under reference, against a star campaigner of another national party and against the political party and by insinuation and innuendo against the candidates for the state elections and to show cause why appropriate action for violation of model code of conduct read with relevant election and penal laws should not be taken against you."

<h2>Poll panel acting on BJP complaint&nbsp;</h2>

Kejriwal was also asked to clarify his remarks by Thursday.

On November 10, the BJP approached the Election Commission and demanded action against the AAP for posting "very unacceptable" and "unethical" video clips and remarks on a social media platform targeting PM Modi.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pollution-after-diwali-higher-in-9-out-of-11-cities-than-a-year-ago-658230">India: Pollution after Diwali higher in 9 out of 11 cities than a year ago, says report</a>

The delegation comprised Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, party national media in-charge and Rajya Sabha MP Anil Baluni and party leader Om Pathak.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttarakhand-tunnel-mishap-may-take-2-more-days-to-rescue-40-trapped-labourers-658272">Uttarakhand tunnel mishap: May take 2 more days to rescue 40 trapped labourers, authorities say</a>

“From its official handle, the AAP has posted a video and two posts on X in which it has said very unacceptable, reprehensible, mischievous and unethical things about the democratically elected head of the government," Puri told reporters after raising the issue with the EC.

&nbsp;

The Election Commission of India has served show-cause notices to Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi, and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for allegedly making false remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Election Commission of India has served show-cause notices to Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi, and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for allegedly making false remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The poll panel was acting on a complaint made by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) that Gandhi made "false" and "unverified" statements against Modi at an election rally in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh state. The BJP further claimed that Gandhi made a "baseless and false" claim that the Narendra Modi government had privatised public sector undertakings. Second EC notice to Priyanka This is the second EC notice to Priyanka amid the ongoing Assembly elections. The poll panel asked her to explain her statement by 8 pm on Thursday (Nov 16). Similarly, Kejriwal was asked to explain for alleged disparaging remarks made against the PM on his social media handle. In its notice to the AAP, the EC stated, "The national convener of the Aam Aadmi Party is hereby called upon to explain the statements/allegations/averments, made in the alleged social media posts under reference, against a star campaigner of another national party and against the political party and by insinuation and innuendo against the candidates for the state elections and to show cause why appropriate action for violation of model code of conduct read with relevant election and penal laws should not be taken against you." Poll panel acting on BJP complaint Kejriwal was also asked to clarify his remarks by Thursday. On November 10, the BJP approached the Election Commission and demanded action against the AAP for posting "very unacceptable" and "unethical" video clips and remarks on a social media platform targeting PM Modi. Also read | India: Pollution after Diwali higher in 9 out of 11 cities than a year ago, says report The delegation comprised Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, party national media in-charge and Rajya Sabha MP Anil Baluni and party leader Om Pathak. Also read | Uttarakhand tunnel mishap: May take 2 more days to rescue 40 trapped labourers, authorities say “From its official handle, the AAP has posted a video and two posts on X in which it has said very unacceptable, reprehensible, mischievous and unethical things about the democratically elected head of the government," Puri told reporters after raising the issue with the EC.

Indian poll body serves notices to Priyanka Gandhi, Delhi CM Kejriwal over remarks against PM Modi

Sonia Gandhi, the former president of India’s grand-old party Congress, was admitted to a hospital in Delhi on Wednesday following complaints of respiratory infection.&nbsp;The Congress politician was accompanied by her daughter and party’s general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, PTI news agency reported quoting sources. Sonia is now undergoing treatment at Ganga Ram Hospital.

The report added that this was a routine check-up for the 76-year-old leader, who has been unwell since Tuesday.

A hospital bulletin issued by the hospital in the evening stated that she has been admitted for observation, reports PTI.

"Mrs. Sonia Gandhi, Chairperson, UPA, has been admitted to our hospital today. She has been admitted in Department of Chest Medicine under the care of Dr. Arup Basu and his team. Mrs. Gandhi has been admitted for observation and treatment of a viral respiratory infection," said Dr Ajay Swaroop, chairman of the hospital's board of management.

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka, who were participating in the party’s ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’ (unite India movement), had to return to Delhi after hearing about their mother’s health. The mass movement entered its Uttar Pradesh leg on Tuesday evening.

<h2>India's top court on free speech of MPs, MLAs, says 'no more restrictions on free speech'</h2>

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The ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’ resumed at 6 am from UP's Mavikalan in Baghpat district after halting there for the night.

Rahul, who has been seen in a half T-shirt throughout the yatra in Haryana and Delhi despite the biting cold, was snapped walking in the march this morning.

Sonia Gandhi has been battling health issues since getting infected with COVID-19 last year. She had travelled abroad for a check-up a few months ago.

The Congress veteran had joined the ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’ in southern Karnataka state and was later seen with Rahul, Priyanka and her husband Robert Vadra in Delhi.

The ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’ is one of the biggest outreach movement launched by the Congress party which aims to unite the country amidst what it calls&nbsp;divisive politics of the ruling party.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Sonia Gandhi, the former president of India’s grand-old party Congress, was admitted to a hospital in Delhi on Wednesday following complaints of respiratory infection.

Sonia Gandhi, the former president of India’s grand-old party Congress, was admitted to a hospital in Delhi on Wednesday following complaints of respiratory infection. The Congress politician was accompanied by her daughter and party’s general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, PTI news agency reported quoting sources. Sonia is now undergoing treatment at Ganga Ram Hospital. The report added that this was a routine check-up for the 76-year-old leader, who has been unwell since Tuesday. A hospital bulletin issued by the hospital in the evening stated that she has been admitted for observation, reports PTI. "Mrs. Sonia Gandhi, Chairperson, UPA, has been admitted to our hospital today. She has been admitted in Department of Chest Medicine under the care of Dr. Arup Basu and his team. Mrs. Gandhi has been admitted for observation and treatment of a viral respiratory infection," said Dr Ajay Swaroop, chairman of the hospital's board of management. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka, who were participating in the party’s ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’ (unite India movement), had to return to Delhi after hearing about their mother’s health. The mass movement entered its Uttar Pradesh leg on Tuesday evening. India's top court on free speech of MPs, MLAs, says 'no more restrictions on free speech' The ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’ resumed at 6 am from UP's Mavikalan in Baghpat district after halting there for the night. Rahul, who has been seen in a half T-shirt throughout the yatra in Haryana and Delhi despite the biting cold, was snapped walking in the march this morning. Sonia Gandhi has been battling health issues since getting infected with COVID-19 last year. She had travelled abroad for a check-up a few months ago. The Congress veteran had joined the ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’ in southern Karnataka state and was later seen with Rahul, Priyanka and her husband Robert Vadra in Delhi. The ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’ is one of the biggest outreach movement launched by the Congress party which aims to unite the country amidst what it calls divisive politics of the ruling party. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Congress party's ex-president Sonia Gandhi admitted to Delhi hospital following respiratory infection

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Friday self-isolated after her husband Robert Vadra tested positive for Covid-19. She said she has been exposed to coronavirus and is accordingly self-isolating.

She also announced the cancellation of her poll campaign in Assam on Friday, in Tamil Nadu on Saturday and in Kerala on Sunday.

Priyanka Gandhi has been campaigning for Congress and party candidates in the states of Assam, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. She has, however,&nbsp;so far not campaigned in West Bengal.

The Congress leader on Friday released a video message apologising to the people.

"I have been exposed to the coronavirus. Although I have tested negative yesterday, the doctors have advised that I self isolate for a few days," she said in the message.

"Unfortunately, I have to cancel the programme that were scheduled for me for the Assam campaign today and for Tamil Nadu tomorrow and Kerala, day after tomorrow," she also said.

"I would like to apologise to everybody for not being able to be there. I wish all the candidates that I was supposed to campaign for the very, very best in the election. I hope all of you do well and the Congress is victorious," she said, while wishing for the party's victory in these elections.

In a separate Facebook post, Robert Vadra said he has tested positive after he came in contact with someone who was COVID positive.

"Hi friends, unfortunately, I came into contact with someone COVID +ve and have tested positive for COVID although I am asymptomatic so far. As per the COVID guidelines, Priyanka and I are self-isolating although she has tested negative," he said in his post.

"Fortunately the kids have not been with us these days and everyone else at home has tested negative too. Hopefully we will all be back to normal life soon," he added.&nbsp;

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Friday self-isolated after her husband Robert Vadra tested positive for Covid-19. She said she has been exposed to coronavirus and is accordingly self-isolating.

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Friday self-isolated after her husband Robert Vadra tested positive for Covid-19. She said she has been exposed to coronavirus and is accordingly self-isolating. She also announced the cancellation of her poll campaign in Assam on Friday, in Tamil Nadu on Saturday and in Kerala on Sunday. Priyanka Gandhi has been campaigning for Congress and party candidates in the states of Assam, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. She has, however, so far not campaigned in West Bengal. The Congress leader on Friday released a video message apologising to the people. "I have been exposed to the coronavirus. Although I have tested negative yesterday, the doctors have advised that I self isolate for a few days," she said in the message. "Unfortunately, I have to cancel the programme that were scheduled for me for the Assam campaign today and for Tamil Nadu tomorrow and Kerala, day after tomorrow," she also said. "I would like to apologise to everybody for not being able to be there. I wish all the candidates that I was supposed to campaign for the very, very best in the election. I hope all of you do well and the Congress is victorious," she said, while wishing for the party's victory in these elections. In a separate Facebook post, Robert Vadra said he has tested positive after he came in contact with someone who was COVID positive. "Hi friends, unfortunately, I came into contact with someone COVID +ve and have tested positive for COVID although I am asymptomatic so far. As per the COVID guidelines, Priyanka and I are self-isolating although she has tested negative," he said in his post. "Fortunately the kids have not been with us these days and everyone else at home has tested negative too. Hopefully we will all be back to normal life soon," he added.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi self-isolates after husband tests Covid positive

Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rahul Gandhi on Saturday met the family of the victim of torture and alleged gangrape in Hathras and said the party`s fight will continue justice is delivered.Priyanka Gandhi said the family wants a judicial inquiry into the incident and removal of the District Magistrate.

Priyanka Gandhi, who hugged the victim`s mother who was weeping, later told reporters that the family couldn`t see their daughter for the one last time after her death in a Delhi hospital and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath should understand his responsibility.&nbsp;

"The family couldn`t see their daughter for the one last time. UP CM Yogi Adityanath should understand his responsibility. Till the time justice is delivered, we`ll continue this fight," Gandhi said.

Priyanka Gandhi said that the aggrieved family wants adequate security. "

The family wants a judicial inquiry into the incident and removal of the District Magistrate. They also want security," she said.Rahul Gandhi said no power in the world can suppress the family`s voice.

The two leaders reached Hathras in the evening after the UP administration conveyed that a group of five persons can meet the victim`s family. Earlier, Priyanka Gandhi drove the vehicle towards DND flyway where police were present in strength and Congress workers had also assembled in support of their leaders.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister on Saturday announced a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the incident. It had earlier announced a probe by SIT. The 19-year-old woman died at Delhi`s Safdarjung hospital on September 29. All the four accused in the incident have been arrested.

Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rahul Gandhi on Saturday met the family of the victim of torture and alleged gangrape in Hathras and said the party`s fight will continue justice is delivered.

Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rahul Gandhi on Saturday met the family of the victim of torture and alleged gangrape in Hathras and said the party`s fight will continue justice is delivered.Priyanka Gandhi said the family wants a judicial inquiry into the incident and removal of the District Magistrate. Priyanka Gandhi, who hugged the victim`s mother who was weeping, later told reporters that the family couldn`t see their daughter for the one last time after her death in a Delhi hospital and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath should understand his responsibility. "The family couldn`t see their daughter for the one last time. UP CM Yogi Adityanath should understand his responsibility. Till the time justice is delivered, we`ll continue this fight," Gandhi said. Priyanka Gandhi said that the aggrieved family wants adequate security. " The family wants a judicial inquiry into the incident and removal of the District Magistrate. They also want security," she said.Rahul Gandhi said no power in the world can suppress the family`s voice. The two leaders reached Hathras in the evening after the UP administration conveyed that a group of five persons can meet the victim`s family. Earlier, Priyanka Gandhi drove the vehicle towards DND flyway where police were present in strength and Congress workers had also assembled in support of their leaders. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister on Saturday announced a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the incident. It had earlier announced a probe by SIT. The 19-year-old woman died at Delhi`s Safdarjung hospital on September 29. All the four accused in the incident have been arrested.

Priyanka and Rahul Gandhi visit Hathras, say victim's family wants judicial inquiry

The Delhi High Court Monday refused to entertain a plea seeking direction to the CBI and the ED to take action against Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Milind Deora and Yes bank co-founder Rana Kapoor for alleged cheating and fraud.

Justice Vibhu Bakhru dismissed the petition filed by an NGO alleging that Vadra sold a painting of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi to Kapoor for Rs 2 crore even though it was the property of the Congress party.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-national-digital-health-mission-and-health-id-card-will-benefit-people-everything-you-want-to-know-321133">How National Digital Health Mission and Health ID card will benefit people: Everything you want to know</a>

The plea alleged that Deora had pressurised Kapoor, who is lodged in jail in another fraud case, to buy the painting.

"This court does not consider it apposite to entertain the writ petition,"&nbsp;the judge said.

Regarding the plea to direct the investigative agencies to take action, the high court said the concerned trial court, where an FIR is already pending against Kapoor in the Yes Bank scam, will have the jurisdiction to direct the probe and the NGO should approach the lower court.

So far as the plea for lodging FIR against Vadra and Deora is concerned, the NGO has an alternate remedy of filing complaint under section 156(3) of CrPC before the trial court, it said.

"The Supreme Court in a number of cases has held that it is necessary for a complainant to exhaust all the remedies available to it before approaching the high court. Hence the present petition is dismissed,"&nbsp;Justice Bakhru said.

The petitioner NGO, Akhil Bhartiya Shanti Pratishthan, through advocate Rajeev Lochan, sought lodging of FIR against the two Congress leaders and Kapoor for alleged money laundering, cheating, extortion, fraud, and misrepresentation.

The plea alleged that Vadra, in connivance with Deora as partner conspirator, and Kapoor in a pre-planned manner performed an illegal act of money laundering with the intention of cheating and forgery.

It also claimed that this was done and executed in a pre-planned manner for generating black money under the garb of sale of late Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's painting made by legendary painter late MF Hussain.

It alleged that Kapoor was part and parcel of the entire illegal execution for grabbing crores of rupees of public property under his power and authority which was done for generating black money via public property for Vadra. 
&nbsp;

The Delhi High Court Monday refused to entertain a plea seeking direction to the CBI and the ED to take action against Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Milind Deora and Yes bank co-founder Rana Kapoor for alleged cheating and fraud.

The Delhi High Court Monday refused to entertain a plea seeking direction to the CBI and the ED to take action against Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Milind Deora and Yes bank co-founder Rana Kapoor for alleged cheating and fraud. Justice Vibhu Bakhru dismissed the petition filed by an NGO alleging that Vadra sold a painting of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi to Kapoor for Rs 2 crore even though it was the property of the Congress party. Also read | How National Digital Health Mission and Health ID card will benefit people: Everything you want to know The plea alleged that Deora had pressurised Kapoor, who is lodged in jail in another fraud case, to buy the painting. "This court does not consider it apposite to entertain the writ petition," the judge said. Regarding the plea to direct the investigative agencies to take action, the high court said the concerned trial court, where an FIR is already pending against Kapoor in the Yes Bank scam, will have the jurisdiction to direct the probe and the NGO should approach the lower court. So far as the plea for lodging FIR against Vadra and Deora is concerned, the NGO has an alternate remedy of filing complaint under section 156(3) of CrPC before the trial court, it said. "The Supreme Court in a number of cases has held that it is necessary for a complainant to exhaust all the remedies available to it before approaching the high court. Hence the present petition is dismissed," Justice Bakhru said. The petitioner NGO, Akhil Bhartiya Shanti Pratishthan, through advocate Rajeev Lochan, sought lodging of FIR against the two Congress leaders and Kapoor for alleged money laundering, cheating, extortion, fraud, and misrepresentation. The plea alleged that Vadra, in connivance with Deora as partner conspirator, and Kapoor in a pre-planned manner performed an illegal act of money laundering with the intention of cheating and forgery. It also claimed that this was done and executed in a pre-planned manner for generating black money under the garb of sale of late Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's painting made by legendary painter late MF Hussain. It alleged that Kapoor was part and parcel of the entire illegal execution for grabbing crores of rupees of public property under his power and authority which was done for generating black money via public property for Vadra.

HC dismisses plea for CBI, ED probe against Priyanka Gandhi, Milind Deora, Rana Kapoor

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday accused the government of adopting a weak strategy and kneeling down before China by "handing over" a rail contract to a Chinese firm.

She said the Centre should give a strong message to China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-responds-to-claim-over-galwan-valley-china-making-inevitable-claims-306738">Also watch|&nbsp;India responds to claim over Galwan valley: China making 'inevitable' claims</a>

"Twenty of our soldiers have been martyred. In such a situation, the central government should give a strong message, but the government has adopted a weak strategy of kneeling down by handing over the contract of Delhi-Meerut semi high-speed rail corridor to a Chinese company. All Indian companies are also competent to build this corridor," she said in a tweet in Hindi.

She also shared a media report claiming that a Chinese company has got the Rs 1126 crore contract for Delhi-Meerut rapid rail, amid the stand-off between Indian and Chinese troops.

Twenty Indian soldiers lost their lives in a violent clash between the troops of India and China at Galwan Valley in Ladakh on Monday night.&nbsp;

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday accused the government of adopting a weak strategy and kneeling down before China by "handing over" a rail contract to a Chinese firm.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday accused the government of adopting a weak strategy and kneeling down before China by "handing over" a rail contract to a Chinese firm. She said the Centre should give a strong message to China. Also watch| India responds to claim over Galwan valley: China making 'inevitable' claims "Twenty of our soldiers have been martyred. In such a situation, the central government should give a strong message, but the government has adopted a weak strategy of kneeling down by handing over the contract of Delhi-Meerut semi high-speed rail corridor to a Chinese company. All Indian companies are also competent to build this corridor," she said in a tweet in Hindi. She also shared a media report claiming that a Chinese company has got the Rs 1126 crore contract for Delhi-Meerut rapid rail, amid the stand-off between Indian and Chinese troops. Twenty Indian soldiers lost their lives in a violent clash between the troops of India and China at Galwan Valley in Ladakh on Monday night.

Govt adopting weak strategy by handing over rail contract to Chinese firm: Priyanka Gandhi

In April, the Congress Working Committee (CWC) will elect the new Congress&nbsp;President at the party's plenary session. 
 
Sonia Gandhi took over as interim chief after the party's debacle in Lok Sabha elections, 2019, under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi. Although, due to her health, it's not possible for her to remain the face of the party for a long time.&nbsp;

A faction of the party still wants Rahul to be back as&nbsp;the party chief, however, Gandhi scion has clarified that he will not take up the post again.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi had resigned after the election results, taking responsibility for the debacle of Congress. 
 
What went against him was his strategy of attacking the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi all the time. In fact, political pundits and a few senior Congress leaders had alerted him to refrain from launching negative campaigns against the Prime Minister.

He was highly criticised when Pakistan quoted his words to condemn the Indian government after Article 370 was scrapped. Rahul&nbsp;also disappointed his loyalists with his absence during important developments. 
 
Neither he was in the country when Congress launched a campaign against the government for the economic slowdown, nor when&nbsp;party delegation went to President Ram Nath Kovind to hand over a memorandum.

The consensus within&nbsp;party leaders, backing&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi&nbsp;as the party chief is highly unlikely with prominent party leaders keen on finding an alternative to Rahul Gandhi.

On the other hand, Priyanka Gandhi was the party's face during the campaign for Uttar Pradesh assembly election in 2019 - this was her official entry into politics. She indeed proved to be a crowd-puller and was considered someone who could revive the party.&nbsp;

Also, there is clamour among the party leaders for Priyanka Gandhi as Rajya Sabha MP. She has a huge following within&nbsp;the party and the charisma to take on Prime Minister Narendra&nbsp;Modi with her oratory skills. Priyanka is someone who can connect with both classes and masses.&nbsp;

According to party sources, Priyanka's entry into politics was delayed so far, because Sonia Gandhi did not want two power centres within the party. She wanted Rahul to be the face of Congress.

With literally no chances of Rahul Gandhi returning as the Party President, Congress has no other choice than Priyanka if they want one of the Gandhis to remain the party chief.

Meanwhile, some leaders have also suggested that CWC takes a collective decision and elect a young non-Gandhi as the Party President for&nbsp;strong and decisive leadership. Milind Deora had even recommended the names of Jyodiraditya Scindia and Sachin Pilot.

Party factions are still not able to express unanimous opinion on the issue, but the delay in the process is harming the party big time - Congress is losing its traditional vote banks and credibility among allies. It's high time Congress takes&nbsp;a decision to end the&nbsp;leadership crisis. The party must elect&nbsp;a chief who has the charisma, administrative and oratory skills to lead the country's main opposition party. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp; 
 
.

In April, the Congress Working Committee (CWC) will elect the new Congress President at the party's plenary session. Sonia Gandhi took over as interim chief after the party's debacle in Lok Sabha elections, 2019, under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi.

In April, the Congress Working Committee (CWC) will elect the new Congress President at the party's plenary session. Sonia Gandhi took over as interim chief after the party's debacle in Lok Sabha elections, 2019, under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi. Although, due to her health, it's not possible for her to remain the face of the party for a long time. A faction of the party still wants Rahul to be back as the party chief, however, Gandhi scion has clarified that he will not take up the post again. Rahul Gandhi had resigned after the election results, taking responsibility for the debacle of Congress. What went against him was his strategy of attacking the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi all the time. In fact, political pundits and a few senior Congress leaders had alerted him to refrain from launching negative campaigns against the Prime Minister. He was highly criticised when Pakistan quoted his words to condemn the Indian government after Article 370 was scrapped. Rahul also disappointed his loyalists with his absence during important developments. Neither he was in the country when Congress launched a campaign against the government for the economic slowdown, nor when party delegation went to President Ram Nath Kovind to hand over a memorandum. The consensus within party leaders, backing Rahul Gandhi as the party chief is highly unlikely with prominent party leaders keen on finding an alternative to Rahul Gandhi. On the other hand, Priyanka Gandhi was the party's face during the campaign for Uttar Pradesh assembly election in 2019 - this was her official entry into politics. She indeed proved to be a crowd-puller and was considered someone who could revive the party. Also, there is clamour among the party leaders for Priyanka Gandhi as Rajya Sabha MP. She has a huge following within the party and the charisma to take on Prime Minister Narendra Modi with her oratory skills. Priyanka is someone who can connect with both classes and masses. According to party sources, Priyanka's entry into politics was delayed so far, because Sonia Gandhi did not want two power centres within the party. She wanted Rahul to be the face of Congress. With literally no chances of Rahul Gandhi returning as the Party President, Congress has no other choice than Priyanka if they want one of the Gandhis to remain the party chief. Meanwhile, some leaders have also suggested that CWC takes a collective decision and elect a young non-Gandhi as the Party President for strong and decisive leadership. Milind Deora had even recommended the names of Jyodiraditya Scindia and Sachin Pilot. Party factions are still not able to express unanimous opinion on the issue, but the delay in the process is harming the party big time - Congress is losing its traditional vote banks and credibility among allies. It's high time Congress takes a decision to end the leadership crisis. The party must elect a chief who has the charisma, administrative and oratory skills to lead the country's main opposition party. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) .

Who will be the next Congress President? Discordance remains

A day after Congress party faced a duck in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-result-it-is-a-victory-of-people-says-kejriwal-after-landslide-victory-280046">Delhi Assembly election</a>, party's general secretary Priyanka Gandhi reacted to the poll results as she said, "Whatever public does is right."

She also said, "This is a time of struggle for us. We have to struggle a lot which we will do."

After winning a landslide victory with 62 seats out of 70 in February 8 polls, Aam Aadmi Party's Arvind Kejriwal will take oath on February 16 for the third time at the Ramlila Maidan. Bharatiya Janata Party bagged eight seats while Congress failed to win any second time in a row.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-result-aap-sweeps-national-capital-with-62-seats-kejriwal-to-hold-closed-door-meeting-280140">Also read: AAP sweeps national capital with 62 seats; Kejriwal to hold closed-door meeting</a>

All AAP heavyweights including Sisodia, Raghav Chaddha and Atishi, Gopal Rai, Satyendar Jain emerged victoriously.

As the AAP cruised to victory, leaders cutting across party lines including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rahul Gandhi (Congress), Sharad Pawar (NCP), Mamata Banerjee (TMC), Naveen Patnaik (BJD) and MK Stalin (DMK) congratulated Kejriwal for the historic win.

On Wednesday, Congress conceded defeat as party spokesperson, Rajdeep Surjewala said it "accepts the verdict given by people of the national capital."

Addressing a press conference, Surjewala congratulated AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal for the victory in the election.

"The result has further strengthened our pledge to make the party strong again," Surjewala also said. 
&nbsp;

A day after Congress party faced a duck in the Delhi Assembly election, party's general secretary Priyanka Gandhi reacted to the poll results as she said, "Whatever public does is right.

A day after Congress party faced a duck in the Delhi Assembly election, party's general secretary Priyanka Gandhi reacted to the poll results as she said, "Whatever public does is right." She also said, "This is a time of struggle for us. We have to struggle a lot which we will do." After winning a landslide victory with 62 seats out of 70 in February 8 polls, Aam Aadmi Party's Arvind Kejriwal will take oath on February 16 for the third time at the Ramlila Maidan. Bharatiya Janata Party bagged eight seats while Congress failed to win any second time in a row. Also read: AAP sweeps national capital with 62 seats; Kejriwal to hold closed-door meeting All AAP heavyweights including Sisodia, Raghav Chaddha and Atishi, Gopal Rai, Satyendar Jain emerged victoriously. As the AAP cruised to victory, leaders cutting across party lines including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rahul Gandhi (Congress), Sharad Pawar (NCP), Mamata Banerjee (TMC), Naveen Patnaik (BJD) and MK Stalin (DMK) congratulated Kejriwal for the historic win. On Wednesday, Congress conceded defeat as party spokesperson, Rajdeep Surjewala said it "accepts the verdict given by people of the national capital." Addressing a press conference, Surjewala congratulated AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal for the victory in the election. "The result has further strengthened our pledge to make the party strong again," Surjewala also said.

'Whatever public does is right', says Priyanka Gandhi after Delhi Assembly election defeat

Congress General Secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/can-priyanka-gandhi-make-a-difference-in-uttar-pradesh-271109">Priyanka Gandhi Vadra</a> on Monday extended her wishes to people on the occasion of Lohri.

"India has a unique culture, farmers thank the nature by celebrating and beating drums after harvesting Kharif corps, wishing all the people on the festival of Til, sweets, dishes and celebration, Lohri #HappyLohri," Gandhi tweeted.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
इस देश की संस्कृति ही निराली है। खरीफ की फसल आने के बाद किसान धूम-धाम से ढोल नगाड़ों के साथ प्रकृति को धन्यवाद देते हैं। तिल, पकवानों, मिठास, मूंगफली और उत्सव के त्योहार लोहड़ी की आप सभी को शुभकामनाएं।<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyLohri?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyLohri</a> <a href="https://t.co/q1kHXOARtz">pic.twitter.com/q1kHXOARtz</a>
— Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankagandhi/status/1216616121240932353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Welcoming longer days and the sun's journey to the northern hemisphere, Lohri is observed the night before Makar Sankranti or Maghi.

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Monday extended her wishes to people on the occasion of Lohri. "India has a unique culture, farmers thank the nature by celebrating and beating drums after harvesting Kharif corps, wishing all the people on the festival of Til, sweets, dishes and celebration, Lohri #HappyLohri," Gandhi tweeted.

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Monday extended her wishes to people on the occasion of Lohri. "India has a unique culture, farmers thank the nature by celebrating and beating drums after harvesting Kharif corps, wishing all the people on the festival of Til, sweets, dishes and celebration, Lohri #HappyLohri," Gandhi tweeted. इस देश की संस्कृति ही निराली है। खरीफ की फसल आने के बाद किसान धूम-धाम से ढोल नगाड़ों के साथ प्रकृति को धन्यवाद देते हैं। तिल, पकवानों, मिठास, मूंगफली और उत्सव के त्योहार लोहड़ी की आप सभी को शुभकामनाएं।#HappyLohri pic.twitter.com/q1kHXOARtz — Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) January 13, 2020 × Welcoming longer days and the sun's journey to the northern hemisphere, Lohri is observed the night before Makar Sankranti or Maghi.

Priyanka Gandhi extends wishes to people on Lohri

Snapping back at BSP supremo <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kota-infant-deaths-mayawati-slams-priyanka-gandhi-over-her-silence-271593">Mayawati</a> for criticising her of being silent over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nine-more-infants-die-in-kota-hospital-death-toll-rises-to-hundred-271585">Kota infants death</a> incident, Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Saturday said that Mayawati herself should visit Rajasthan to meet the kin of the victims. 
 
Priyanka's reaction comes after Mayawati questioned her silence on the death of infants in Kota and said the Congress leader should have met the women who had lost their children due to "laxity" of the Ashok Gehlot-led government in Madhya Pradesh. 
 
"She (Mayawati) should visit Rajasthan to meet victims' families," Gandhi told reporters while responding to the BSP chief's statement. 
 
Expressing grief over the death of the infants, Congress leader said that she has taken the details of the case. 
 
"I have taken details of the issue and a Congress team has gone there to get more information on the matter," she said. 
 
Taking cognisance of the issue, Mayawati had on Thursday said that the Ashok Gehlot-led <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/19-trains-running-late-due-to-low-visibility-in-northern-railway-region-271802">Madhya Pradesh</a> government remains "insensitive and irresponsible towards it, which is extremely condemnable."

In another post, Mayawati had said that what was "sadder" is the "top leadership of the Congress and, in particular, its woman general secretary" staying silent on the issue.

She added that if the "woman general secretary of the Congress" will not visit <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kota-infant-deaths-action-being-taken-against-those-at-fault-says-harish-rawat-272058">Kota</a> to meet the mothers who lost their children, then her meetings with families of victims in Uttar Pradesh will be considered for political interest and drama. 
 
The death toll of infants in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/instead-of-opposing-caa-focus-on-children-dying-in-kota-shah-tells-gehlot-271963">JK Lon Hospital</a> in Kota reached 107, said, a hospital official.

A three-member state government committee of doctors, who was sent to investigate the matter on December 23 and 24, found that Kota's JK Lon Hospital is short of beds and it requires improvement.

However, the committee gave a clean chit to the doctors for any lapses over the recent death of infants admitted there.

Snapping back at BSP supremo Mayawati for criticising her of being silent over the Kota infants death incident, Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Saturday said that Mayawati herself should visit Rajasthan to meet the kin of the victims.

Snapping back at BSP supremo Mayawati for criticising her of being silent over the Kota infants death incident, Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Saturday said that Mayawati herself should visit Rajasthan to meet the kin of the victims. Priyanka's reaction comes after Mayawati questioned her silence on the death of infants in Kota and said the Congress leader should have met the women who had lost their children due to "laxity" of the Ashok Gehlot-led government in Madhya Pradesh. "She (Mayawati) should visit Rajasthan to meet victims' families," Gandhi told reporters while responding to the BSP chief's statement. Expressing grief over the death of the infants, Congress leader said that she has taken the details of the case. "I have taken details of the issue and a Congress team has gone there to get more information on the matter," she said. Taking cognisance of the issue, Mayawati had on Thursday said that the Ashok Gehlot-led Madhya Pradesh government remains "insensitive and irresponsible towards it, which is extremely condemnable." In another post, Mayawati had said that what was "sadder" is the "top leadership of the Congress and, in particular, its woman general secretary" staying silent on the issue. She added that if the "woman general secretary of the Congress" will not visit Kota to meet the mothers who lost their children, then her meetings with families of victims in Uttar Pradesh will be considered for political interest and drama. The death toll of infants in JK Lon Hospital in Kota reached 107, said, a hospital official. A three-member state government committee of doctors, who was sent to investigate the matter on December 23 and 24, found that Kota's JK Lon Hospital is short of beds and it requires improvement. However, the committee gave a clean chit to the doctors for any lapses over the recent death of infants admitted there.

Priyanka Gandhi to Mayawati: She must visit Rajasthan to meet Kota victims's 'families'

Can Priyanka Gandhi Vadra make a difference to Congress Party in Uttar Pradesh? Going by the value of her party in the state, it looks like an impossible task. Congress does not have workers, regional leaders, cadre and a proper cause which can bring different communities together during an election.

Congress has a depleted vote bank and fractured leadership which is divided into different factions. The present support which Congress lent to CAA may get temporary publicity, but the cause may not help it electorally for the simple reason that Muslims may decide to vote for Samajwadi Party (SP) once again during assembly elections. On the other hand, Congress will have to deal with BJP which might gain because of reverse polarisation.

Priyanka’s own late campaign during Lok Sabha elections was a political disaster in 2019. Her entry instead of delivering a hit, turned into a colossal flop. Congress even lost Amethi, a bastion of the Gandhi family. Technically, Priyanka Gandhi has inherited nothing from the Congress Party or her own brother Rahul Gandhi who experimented thrice in Uttar Pradesh.

The point I’m trying to make is that Priyanka Gandhi is virtually starting with scratch. The only thing she today possesses is her conviction and courage which can be lost to prevailing circumstances. Nonetheless, Priyanka has made all the right noises after Lok Sabha debacle that too on her own strength. The credit must be given to Priyanka Gandhi that she did not give up on Uttar Pradesh.

The state is deeply divided on caste and religion. Even during CAA protest, maximum protests happened near Muslim dominated areas and maximum firepower was used against them. The approach towards Muslims was tough. The message was two-fold.

The first message was that the government stands firm on CAA and will use force if protests do not stop. The message was to BJP’s vote bank that it is the only party which stands between them and an aggressive minority. It is a trap which Priyanka Gandhi needs to avoid.

She will need to pick up an issue which resonates closer to the Congress and not the Left parties and BJP. She needs to ensure that the focus remains on issues and not on her. On Monday, she rightly did not allow her own security became a talking point during the press conference. Priyanka Gandhi cannot be an eye-grabber all the time. Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh have shown that silent campaign, which is less focused on Gandhis, works well.&nbsp;

She will also need to invest herself in the state by staying there for a few days and even weeks. The present leadership of the Congress is such condition that it cannot even get more than 20 MLAs in the assembly today. None of the leaders of the Uttar Pradesh from Congress can today be projected as Chief Ministers.

If Congress Party can allow Priyanka Gandhi another 10 years in Uttar Pradesh, then something might happen. It took BJP 15 years to come back to power. Today, regional parties are getting stronger and BJP and Congress are directly pitted against each other directly in 8 states. In rest of the states, BJP is the number 1 party and Congress is either number 2, number 3 and in some cases even number 3 party. Maharashtra is a case in example. In almost all cases, BJP has either emerged as the principal party or the principal challenger.

So, it is imperative that Priyanka Gandhi should not get mighty impressed with the TV coverage she gets. Rahul Gandhi fell prey to this temporary adulation. The only way she can revive Congress in Uttar Pradesh is by seen continuously engaged on regional issues in Uttar Pradesh.

Rahul Gandhi by the end of 2010 was considered a tourist in the state. Priyanka Gandhi cannot afford to walk down the same path.

Across the world, major leaderless protests have taken place starting from Tahrir using new communication platforms but fundamentally failed to alter the dynamic of the state or electoral politics in the long run. CAA also runs the risk of walking down the same path as the government has 4 more years to go.&nbsp;

CAA protests are unlike the1970s protests which were personally directed towards Indira Gandhi. &nbsp;

Priyanka might succeded if she stays put in the state and focuses on issues which are important for Congress, its leaders and associated interest groups. 
 
(Views expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Can Priyanka Gandhi Vadra make a difference to Congress Party in Uttar Pradesh? Going by the value of her party in the state, it looks like an impossible task. Congress does not have workers, regional leaders, cadre and a proper cause which can bring different communities together during an election.

Can Priyanka Gandhi Vadra make a difference to Congress Party in Uttar Pradesh? Going by the value of her party in the state, it looks like an impossible task. Congress does not have workers, regional leaders, cadre and a proper cause which can bring different communities together during an election. Congress has a depleted vote bank and fractured leadership which is divided into different factions. The present support which Congress lent to CAA may get temporary publicity, but the cause may not help it electorally for the simple reason that Muslims may decide to vote for Samajwadi Party (SP) once again during assembly elections. On the other hand, Congress will have to deal with BJP which might gain because of reverse polarisation. Priyanka’s own late campaign during Lok Sabha elections was a political disaster in 2019. Her entry instead of delivering a hit, turned into a colossal flop. Congress even lost Amethi, a bastion of the Gandhi family. Technically, Priyanka Gandhi has inherited nothing from the Congress Party or her own brother Rahul Gandhi who experimented thrice in Uttar Pradesh. The point I’m trying to make is that Priyanka Gandhi is virtually starting with scratch. The only thing she today possesses is her conviction and courage which can be lost to prevailing circumstances. Nonetheless, Priyanka has made all the right noises after Lok Sabha debacle that too on her own strength. The credit must be given to Priyanka Gandhi that she did not give up on Uttar Pradesh. The state is deeply divided on caste and religion. Even during CAA protest, maximum protests happened near Muslim dominated areas and maximum firepower was used against them. The approach towards Muslims was tough. The message was two-fold. The first message was that the government stands firm on CAA and will use force if protests do not stop. The message was to BJP’s vote bank that it is the only party which stands between them and an aggressive minority. It is a trap which Priyanka Gandhi needs to avoid. She will need to pick up an issue which resonates closer to the Congress and not the Left parties and BJP. She needs to ensure that the focus remains on issues and not on her. On Monday, she rightly did not allow her own security became a talking point during the press conference. Priyanka Gandhi cannot be an eye-grabber all the time. Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh have shown that silent campaign, which is less focused on Gandhis, works well. She will also need to invest herself in the state by staying there for a few days and even weeks. The present leadership of the Congress is such condition that it cannot even get more than 20 MLAs in the assembly today. None of the leaders of the Uttar Pradesh from Congress can today be projected as Chief Ministers. If Congress Party can allow Priyanka Gandhi another 10 years in Uttar Pradesh, then something might happen. It took BJP 15 years to come back to power. Today, regional parties are getting stronger and BJP and Congress are directly pitted against each other directly in 8 states. In rest of the states, BJP is the number 1 party and Congress is either number 2, number 3 and in some cases even number 3 party. Maharashtra is a case in example. In almost all cases, BJP has either emerged as the principal party or the principal challenger. So, it is imperative that Priyanka Gandhi should not get mighty impressed with the TV coverage she gets. Rahul Gandhi fell prey to this temporary adulation. The only way she can revive Congress in Uttar Pradesh is by seen continuously engaged on regional issues in Uttar Pradesh. Rahul Gandhi by the end of 2010 was considered a tourist in the state. Priyanka Gandhi cannot afford to walk down the same path. Across the world, major leaderless protests have taken place starting from Tahrir using new communication platforms but fundamentally failed to alter the dynamic of the state or electoral politics in the long run. CAA also runs the risk of walking down the same path as the government has 4 more years to go. CAA protests are unlike the1970s protests which were personally directed towards Indira Gandhi. Priyanka might succeded if she stays put in the state and focuses on issues which are important for Congress, its leaders and associated interest groups. (Views expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Can Priyanka Gandhi make a difference in Uttar Pradesh?

Union Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/59-suspected-cases-of-infiltration-in-jk-from-august-to-october-2019-mha-sources-269011">G Kishan Reddy</a> on Monday challenged Congress leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-its-foundation-day-congress-holds-massive-protest-rally-against-caa-nrc-in-mumbai-270769">Rahul Gandhi</a> for a debate over the Citizenship Amendment Act and National Register of Citizens (NRC) and exuded confidence saying that Gandhi would be defeated even by an ordinary worker of the BJP. 
 
"Anywhere in the country, even our ordinary party worker is ready to debate on this issue and can defeat Rahul Gandhi as he does not have any knowledge about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/caa-row-muslim-leaders-clerics-to-meet-pm-modi-amit-shah-270594">CAA</a> and NRC," the Minister of State (MoS) for Home said challenging the Congress MP from Wayanad. 
 
Further supporting the Uttar Pradesh government's move of seizing the property of those who participated in violence and arson during the anti-CAA and NRC protests, he said, "The rule to seize the property of rioters is correct and should be implemented all across the country." 
 
Reddy also slammed Congress over the allegations of a lapse in security and manhandling with its general secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-holds-meeting-with-up-congress-leaders-to-discuss-bharat-bachao-rally-preparations-266589">Priyanka Gandhi Vadra</a> in Uttar Pradesh. He asserted that the Congress' method of time and again raising questions about their leaders' security is not correct. "Security to all the officials and ordinary people of the nation is our responsibility," he said. 
 
Earlier today, days after Vadra alleged breach of protocol by the UP Police in Lucknow, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) said that there was "no breach in security" on their part as she was supposed to visit only Pradesh Congress Committee office according to her tour programme. 
 
"Tour programme of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Z+ Category Central Category (CRPF Protectee) to visit Lucknow on 27-28 December was received and communicated to state authorities. 
 
On December 28, the only programme indicated was to visit PCC office for attending Congress foundation function for which ASL had been conducted," said CRPF in a statement.

Union Minister G Kishan Reddy on Monday challenged Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for a debate over the Citizenship Amendment Act and National Register of Citizens (NRC) and exuded confidence saying that Gandhi would be defeated even by an ordinary worker of the BJP.

Union Minister G Kishan Reddy on Monday challenged Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for a debate over the Citizenship Amendment Act and National Register of Citizens (NRC) and exuded confidence saying that Gandhi would be defeated even by an ordinary worker of the BJP. "Anywhere in the country, even our ordinary party worker is ready to debate on this issue and can defeat Rahul Gandhi as he does not have any knowledge about CAA and NRC," the Minister of State (MoS) for Home said challenging the Congress MP from Wayanad. Further supporting the Uttar Pradesh government's move of seizing the property of those who participated in violence and arson during the anti-CAA and NRC protests, he said, "The rule to seize the property of rioters is correct and should be implemented all across the country." Reddy also slammed Congress over the allegations of a lapse in security and manhandling with its general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in Uttar Pradesh. He asserted that the Congress' method of time and again raising questions about their leaders' security is not correct. "Security to all the officials and ordinary people of the nation is our responsibility," he said. Earlier today, days after Vadra alleged breach of protocol by the UP Police in Lucknow, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) said that there was "no breach in security" on their part as she was supposed to visit only Pradesh Congress Committee office according to her tour programme. "Tour programme of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Z+ Category Central Category (CRPF Protectee) to visit Lucknow on 27-28 December was received and communicated to state authorities. On December 28, the only programme indicated was to visit PCC office for attending Congress foundation function for which ASL had been conducted," said CRPF in a statement.

Even ordinary BJP worker can defeat Rahul Gandhi in debate over CAA, NRC: G Kishan Reddy

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