<p>The United States has stated that it does not agree with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's claim that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy has strengthened the Pakistan-China relationship, adding that the two countries should speak for themselves.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked for a reply to Rahul Gandhi's comments in Parliament on Wednesday, US State Department spokesperson Ned Price responded that "I will leave it to the Pakistanis and the PRC to speak to their relationship. I certainly would not – would not endorse those remarks,".</p>

<p>According to the former Congress president and MP, the Modi government's foreign policy had brought China and Pakistan together.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Price also stated that the United States does not ask other countries to choose between America and China, and that the United States values its relationship with Pakistan.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-indias-created-one-for-rich-and-one-for-poor-gap-widening-congress-mp-rahul-gandhi-449982"><strong>Also read | Two Indias created, one for rich and one for poor; gap widening: Congress MP Rahul Gandhi</strong></a></p>

<p>"We’ve made the point all along that it is not a requirement for any country in the world to choose between the United States and China. It is our intention to provide choices to countries when it comes to what the relationship with the United States looks like.And we think partnership with the United States conveys a series of advantages that countries typically would not find when it comes to the sorts of partnerships that – "partnerships" may be the wrong term; the sorts of relationships that the PRC has seeked to – has sought to have around the world," Ned Price added.</p>

<p>"Pakistan is a strategic partner of the United States. We have an important relationship with the government in Islamabad, and it’s a relationship that we value across a number of fronts, " he said.</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States has stated that it does not agree with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's claim that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy has strengthened the Pakistan-China relationship, adding that the two countries should speak for themselves.

The United States has stated that it does not agree with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's claim that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy has strengthened the Pakistan-China relationship, adding that the two countries should speak for themselves. When asked for a reply to Rahul Gandhi's comments in Parliament on Wednesday, US State Department spokesperson Ned Price responded that "I will leave it to the Pakistanis and the PRC to speak to their relationship. I certainly would not – would not endorse those remarks,". According to the former Congress president and MP, the Modi government's foreign policy had brought China and Pakistan together. Price also stated that the United States does not ask other countries to choose between America and China, and that the United States values its relationship with Pakistan. Also read | Two Indias created, one for rich and one for poor; gap widening: Congress MP Rahul Gandhi "We’ve made the point all along that it is not a requirement for any country in the world to choose between the United States and China. It is our intention to provide choices to countries when it comes to what the relationship with the United States looks like.And we think partnership with the United States conveys a series of advantages that countries typically would not find when it comes to the sorts of partnerships that – "partnerships" may be the wrong term; the sorts of relationships that the PRC has seeked to – has sought to have around the world," Ned Price added. "Pakistan is a strategic partner of the United States. We have an important relationship with the government in Islamabad, and it’s a relationship that we value across a number of fronts, " he said. × (With inputs from agencies)

'Won't endorse it': US on Rahul’s remark that China, Pakistan together due to India’s foreign policy

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="14">Rahul Gandhi, an Indian Opposition politician, has written to Twitter Inc.'s CEO, alleging that he is the target of an attempt to limit his ability to gain followers on the platform, casting new insight on the drastic drop in the growth of Twitter followers for many.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="16">Gandhi revealed in a letter to Twitter CEO Parag Agrawal how his Twitter followers have decreased dramatically since August 2021.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="17">Gandhi used the example of acquiring roughly 650,000 new followers in May 2021 to demonstrate how his Twitter account would attract an average of 8,000 to 10,000 new followers every day.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="18">However, starting in August 2021, the number of new followers dropped to nearly zero.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="19">Gandhi added that the reason for this, according to social media specialists, could be due to the topics he discussed on Twitter during these months.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em><strong>You can read the entire letter here:&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="19"><img alt="You can read the entire letter here: " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="93ff71a7-7b2c-4c30-8da0-851701f1944f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_3.png" /></p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="19"><img alt="You can read the entire letter here: " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8264790e-c4a2-446c-bb44-4c505fc87387" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_1.png" /></p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="19"><img alt="You can read the entire letter here: " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c77219be-0189-44ca-a4bb-8610b88b6fba" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/3_0.png" /></p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="20">Gandhi also claimed that his Twitter account was temporarily suspended for no apparent reason.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="21">In August of last year, Rahul Gandhi's Twitter account, along with the accounts of roughly 5,000 other Congress officials and employees, was momentarily blocked for tweeting photographs of the parents of a juvenile rape and murder victim in Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="22">According to ANI, a Twitter spokesperson claimed the follower counts are "meaningful" and "accurate."</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="23">"Twitter has zero-tolerance approach to platform manipulation and spam. We fight spam and malicious automation strategically and at scale with machine learning tools, and as part of those consistent and ongoing efforts to ensure a healthy service and credible accounts, follower counts can and do fluctuate," the spokesperson said.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="24"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Rahul Gandhi, an Indian Opposition politician, has written to Twitter Inc.'s CEO, alleging that he is the target of an attempt to limit his ability to gain followers on the platform, casting new insight on the drastic drop in the growth of Twitter followers for many.

Rahul Gandhi, an Indian Opposition politician, has written to Twitter Inc.'s CEO, alleging that he is the target of an attempt to limit his ability to gain followers on the platform, casting new insight on the drastic drop in the growth of Twitter followers for many. Gandhi revealed in a letter to Twitter CEO Parag Agrawal how his Twitter followers have decreased dramatically since August 2021. Gandhi used the example of acquiring roughly 650,000 new followers in May 2021 to demonstrate how his Twitter account would attract an average of 8,000 to 10,000 new followers every day. However, starting in August 2021, the number of new followers dropped to nearly zero. Gandhi added that the reason for this, according to social media specialists, could be due to the topics he discussed on Twitter during these months. You can read the entire letter here: Gandhi also claimed that his Twitter account was temporarily suspended for no apparent reason. In August of last year, Rahul Gandhi's Twitter account, along with the accounts of roughly 5,000 other Congress officials and employees, was momentarily blocked for tweeting photographs of the parents of a juvenile rape and murder victim in Delhi. According to ANI, a Twitter spokesperson claimed the follower counts are "meaningful" and "accurate." "Twitter has zero-tolerance approach to platform manipulation and spam. We fight spam and malicious automation strategically and at scale with machine learning tools, and as part of those consistent and ongoing efforts to ensure a healthy service and credible accounts, follower counts can and do fluctuate," the spokesperson said. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian politician Rahul Gandhi is miffed that his Twitter following is not growing, writes to CEO

<p>Congress veteran Amarinder Singh on Saturday resigned as chief minister of Punjab, declaring that he feels "humiliated" and said he won't accept state Congress president Navjot Singh Sidhu as the next CM or the party face in the Assembly polls.</p>

<p>The development has come amid a power tussle that polarised the ruling party in the state headed for elections in just about four months.</p>

<p>Sidhu was made the state Congress chief earlier this year despite opposition by Amarinder Singh.</p>

<p>"I feel humiliated," Amarinder Singh told reporters outside the Punjab Raj Bhawan after submitting his resignation to Governor Banwarilal Purohit.</p>

<p>"I have resigned, let them make anyone (next CM)," he further said.</p>

<p>The Congress leader, however, in another interaction with the media said he won't accept Navjot Singh Sidhu as the Punjab chief minister, describing him as "a total disaster".</p>

<p>The man who could not handle one ministry, can never run entire Punjab, he said.</p>

<p>Replying to a question, he said he will never agree to Navjot Singh Sidhu as the next chief minister.</p>

<p>"He is a total disaster. When he was a minister (in Amarinder cabinet), he could not even run one ministry, now can he run entire Punjab? I know that man has no capability at all," said Amarinder Singh.</p>

<p>If Sidhu is made the face of the Congress for the Punjab polls, Singh said he will oppose him "tooth and nail".</p>

<p>Earlier in the day after submitting his resignation, when asked about his next course of action, Singh told reporters, "There is always an option and I will use that option when time comes."</p>

<p>"I have been in politics for the past 52 years and I have been a chief minister for nine-and-a-half years. I will talk to my colleagues, supporters," he said.</p>

<p>He submitted his resignation along with that of his council of ministers, his media adviser said. The resignation has been accepted by the Governor.</p>

<p>Singh's resignation came hours before a crucial meeting of the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) on Saturday evening, pre-empting what was widely being seen as a move to remove him from the CM's post.</p>

<p>In the meeting, Punjab Congress MLAs authorised party's national president Sonia Gandhi to pick a new CLP leader and in a unanimously passed resolution praised Amarinder's contribution for Punjab and the Congress.</p>

<p>"I spoke to the Congress president in the morning and I told her that I am resigning today," Amarinder Singh told reporters.</p>

<p>"They called the MLAs to Delhi twice and now convened a CLP here in Chandigarh today," he said.</p>

<p>"I think if there is an element of doubt on me that I could not run (the government) or if there was something else, I feel humiliated the way things have happened," he said.</p>

<p>To a question on joining any other party, he said, "Whatever you have to say, you can say. I can only tell you that I have been a chief minister from the Congress. And I am in the Congress and</p>

<p>I will consult my colleagues and then we will decide the future course of politics."</p>

<p>"I have only resigned for myself," he said.</p>

<p>"I hereby tender my resignation as the chief minister, and that of my council of ministers," the one-line resignation letter said.</p>

<p>In another interaction with the media later, Amarinder Singh said he had already told Sonia Gandhi during his meeting with her a few weeks back that he should be relieved of the charge.</p>

<p>"I had told her that you relieve me of this charge because I cannot work in this way where Mr Sidhu is pulling right and I am pulling left. In that meeting, Congress general secretary (Harish) Rawat was also present. Soniaji then said no I want you to carry on,? said Amarinder Singh.</p>

<p>The Congress leader said he performed his duty to the best of his ability.</p>

<p>"I have been in politics for 52 years, so I don't care about these things, I am in politics and I will remain in politics," he said when asked about the circumstances in which he had to resign.</p>

<p>"In politics, options are always there, they are never closed. I can tell you one thing, I am not going to leave it like this," he said.<br />
Politics is a very fast moving game, he said replying to another question.</p>

<p>Singh was accompanied by his wife and MP Preneet Kaur and son Raninder Singh when he submitted his resignation to Governor Banwarilal Purohit.</p>

<p>MPs Gurjeet Singh Aujla and Ravneet Singh Bittu, AG Atul Nanda and Chief Principal Secretary to CM Suresh Kumar were also present.</p>

<p>"I am proud to accompany my father to Raj Bhawan when he submits his resignation as CM of Punjab and leads us as head of our family into a new beginning," Raninder Singh said in a tweet earlier.&nbsp;</p>


Congress veteran Amarinder Singh on Saturday resigned as chief minister of Punjab, declaring that he feels "humiliated" and said he won't accept state Congress president Navjot Singh Sidhu as the next CM or the party face in the Assembly polls.

Congress veteran Amarinder Singh on Saturday resigned as chief minister of Punjab, declaring that he feels "humiliated" and said he won't accept state Congress president Navjot Singh Sidhu as the next CM or the party face in the Assembly polls. The development has come amid a power tussle that polarised the ruling party in the state headed for elections in just about four months. Sidhu was made the state Congress chief earlier this year despite opposition by Amarinder Singh. "I feel humiliated," Amarinder Singh told reporters outside the Punjab Raj Bhawan after submitting his resignation to Governor Banwarilal Purohit. "I have resigned, let them make anyone (next CM)," he further said. The Congress leader, however, in another interaction with the media said he won't accept Navjot Singh Sidhu as the Punjab chief minister, describing him as "a total disaster". The man who could not handle one ministry, can never run entire Punjab, he said. Replying to a question, he said he will never agree to Navjot Singh Sidhu as the next chief minister. "He is a total disaster. When he was a minister (in Amarinder cabinet), he could not even run one ministry, now can he run entire Punjab? I know that man has no capability at all," said Amarinder Singh. If Sidhu is made the face of the Congress for the Punjab polls, Singh said he will oppose him "tooth and nail". Earlier in the day after submitting his resignation, when asked about his next course of action, Singh told reporters, "There is always an option and I will use that option when time comes." "I have been in politics for the past 52 years and I have been a chief minister for nine-and-a-half years. I will talk to my colleagues, supporters," he said. He submitted his resignation along with that of his council of ministers, his media adviser said. The resignation has been accepted by the Governor. Singh's resignation came hours before a crucial meeting of the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) on Saturday evening, pre-empting what was widely being seen as a move to remove him from the CM's post. In the meeting, Punjab Congress MLAs authorised party's national president Sonia Gandhi to pick a new CLP leader and in a unanimously passed resolution praised Amarinder's contribution for Punjab and the Congress. "I spoke to the Congress president in the morning and I told her that I am resigning today," Amarinder Singh told reporters. "They called the MLAs to Delhi twice and now convened a CLP here in Chandigarh today," he said. "I think if there is an element of doubt on me that I could not run (the government) or if there was something else, I feel humiliated the way things have happened," he said. To a question on joining any other party, he said, "Whatever you have to say, you can say. I can only tell you that I have been a chief minister from the Congress. And I am in the Congress and I will consult my colleagues and then we will decide the future course of politics." "I have only resigned for myself," he said. "I hereby tender my resignation as the chief minister, and that of my council of ministers," the one-line resignation letter said. In another interaction with the media later, Amarinder Singh said he had already told Sonia Gandhi during his meeting with her a few weeks back that he should be relieved of the charge. "I had told her that you relieve me of this charge because I cannot work in this way where Mr Sidhu is pulling right and I am pulling left. In that meeting, Congress general secretary (Harish) Rawat was also present. Soniaji then said no I want you to carry on,? said Amarinder Singh. The Congress leader said he performed his duty to the best of his ability. "I have been in politics for 52 years, so I don't care about these things, I am in politics and I will remain in politics," he said when asked about the circumstances in which he had to resign. "In politics, options are always there, they are never closed. I can tell you one thing, I am not going to leave it like this," he said. Politics is a very fast moving game, he said replying to another question. Singh was accompanied by his wife and MP Preneet Kaur and son Raninder Singh when he submitted his resignation to Governor Banwarilal Purohit. MPs Gurjeet Singh Aujla and Ravneet Singh Bittu, AG Atul Nanda and Chief Principal Secretary to CM Suresh Kumar were also present. "I am proud to accompany my father to Raj Bhawan when he submits his resignation as CM of Punjab and leads us as head of our family into a new beginning," Raninder Singh said in a tweet earlier.

India's Punjab state chief minister resigns, says 'feel humiliated'

Indian Union Minister Prakash Javadekar said that all Indians will be vaccinated against the novel Coronavirus by December 2021. This after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi claimed that only 3 percent of the country’s population is vaccinated against COVID-19.

Prakash Javadekar: All Indians will be vaccinated against COVID-19 by December 2021

<p>Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has tested positive for Covid-19, he informed on Tuesday.</p>

<p>"After experiencing mild symptoms, I’ve just tested positive for COVID. All those who’ve been in contact with me recently, please follow all safety protocols and stay safe," Rahul Gandhi tweeted.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">After experiencing mild symptoms, I’ve just tested positive for COVID.<br />
<br />
All those who’ve been in contact with me recently, please follow all safety protocols and stay safe.</p>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1384442319638867969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Yesterday, former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh tested positive for covid-19 and was admitted to All India Institute of Medical Sciencies hospital in New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has tested positive for Covid-19, he informed on Tuesday. "After experiencing mild symptoms, I’ve just tested positive for COVID.

Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has tested positive for Covid-19, he informed on Tuesday. "After experiencing mild symptoms, I’ve just tested positive for COVID. All those who’ve been in contact with me recently, please follow all safety protocols and stay safe," Rahul Gandhi tweeted. After experiencing mild symptoms, I’ve just tested positive for COVID. All those who’ve been in contact with me recently, please follow all safety protocols and stay safe. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) April 20, 2021 × Yesterday, former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh tested positive for covid-19 and was admitted to All India Institute of Medical Sciencies hospital in New Delhi. (With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi tests positive for Covid-19, says has 'mild symptoms'

<p>Tremors were felt across northern India following an earthquake in Tajikistan late Friday, and while the entire world panicked and ran for cover, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was unfazed.</p>

<p>Gandhi was then virtually interacting with the students of the University of Chicago. When he realised there was "an earthquake going on", he continued with the live event calmly. He, however, chuckled a bit and let the panelists know of the quake.</p>

<p>A video capturing the moment has gone viral on the social media.</p>

<p>“By the bye, I think there’s an earthquake going on,” Gandhi is heard saying on the live Zoom interaction with historian Dipesh Chakrabarty and the students when the earthquake struck.</p>

<p>Moments later, he is seen saying as he answers a student’s question: “My room is shaking.”</p>

<p>Pretty cool, isn't it?</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> in between in a live interview when earthquake happened.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> <a href="https://t.co/GRp9sxHoMY">pic.twitter.com/GRp9sxHoMY</a></p>
— Rohit Yadav (@RohitnVicky) <a href="https://twitter.com/RohitnVicky/status/1360300033153798148?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/earthquake-measuring-63-jolts-tajikistan-tremors-felt-in-delhi-and-northern-india-363261"><strong>Must read | Earthquake measuring 6.3 jolts Tajikistan, tremors felt in Delhi and northern India</strong></a></p>

<p>Strong tremors were felt in several parts of northern India including the capital city of New Delhi and as far as Srinagar on Friday.</p>

<p>As per the India Metrological Department (IMD), the epicentre of the earthquake was in Tajikistan.</p>

<p>The National Centre for Seismology said an earthquake of magnitude 6.3 hit Tajikistan at 10:31 pm, and tremors were felt in northern India.</p>

<p>The quake also jolted parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Noida, Punjab, Haryana and Uttarakhand.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Tremors were felt across northern India following an earthquake in Tajikistan late Friday, and while the entire world panicked and ran for cover, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was unfazed.

Tremors were felt across northern India following an earthquake in Tajikistan late Friday, and while the entire world panicked and ran for cover, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was unfazed. Gandhi was then virtually interacting with the students of the University of Chicago. When he realised there was "an earthquake going on", he continued with the live event calmly. He, however, chuckled a bit and let the panelists know of the quake. A video capturing the moment has gone viral on the social media. “By the bye, I think there’s an earthquake going on,” Gandhi is heard saying on the live Zoom interaction with historian Dipesh Chakrabarty and the students when the earthquake struck. Moments later, he is seen saying as he answers a student’s question: “My room is shaking.” Pretty cool, isn't it? Watch the video here: #earthquake @RahulGandhi in between in a live interview when earthquake happened.#earthquake pic.twitter.com/GRp9sxHoMY — Rohit Yadav (@RohitnVicky) February 12, 2021 × Must read | Earthquake measuring 6.3 jolts Tajikistan, tremors felt in Delhi and northern India Strong tremors were felt in several parts of northern India including the capital city of New Delhi and as far as Srinagar on Friday. As per the India Metrological Department (IMD), the epicentre of the earthquake was in Tajikistan. The National Centre for Seismology said an earthquake of magnitude 6.3 hit Tajikistan at 10:31 pm, and tremors were felt in northern India. The quake also jolted parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Noida, Punjab, Haryana and Uttarakhand.

Rahul Gandhi remains unfazed even as earthquake strikes. Watch video

<p>Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday hit back at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi`s "Hum do, Hamare do" jibe with the same slogan. She also accused him of playing a role like a "doomsday man" by insulting the legislative authority like the PM, former PM, President and even the Lok Sabha chair.</p>

<p>Delivering her final speech on the discussion on Union Budget 2021-2022 in the Lok Sabha, the Finance Minister took on Gandhi saying he is probably becoming the "doomsday man" of India, building "fake narratives" that "demean" the country.</p>

<p>Sitharaman`s "doomsday" remark came in an obvious indication when she mentioned without taking Rahul`s name that "there is a `doomsday man` who said two days ago that he will not speak on Budget. What kind of role he wants to play?"</p>

<p>Gandhi on Thursday spoke the same line in the Lok Sabha while speaking on the farm laws when the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the President`s Address was already over and he was given time to participate in the ongoing debate on Union Budget 2021-2022.</p>

<p>"The leader and its party continuously abusing the legislative by hitting the dignity of PM, former PM, President and the Lok Sabha chair. Why do you always choose to insult the legislative authority?...Abuse and then seek apology, this is the tendency of the party.</p>

<p>"The party`s position in Rajya Sabha is different and here in Lok Sabha they show another position. The party is continuously spreading fake narrative. The party follows two tendencies -- create institution, use it for own benefit; create disturbance," Sitharaman said.</p>

<p>As Sitharaman was replying to the discussion on the Union Budget, she posed 10 questions about Rahul Gandhi`s speech which was mainly on the farmers` protest, not Union Budget 2021, the finance minister said.</p>

<p>Referring to Gandhi`s `Hum do, Hamare do` comment which Gandhi had made in the Lok Sabha to attack the Central government on Thursday over the farm laws, the Minister used the same slogan, mentioning if the party blames the government it should also think about how it is taking care of "daughter and damad".</p>

<p>Sitharaman said though the Congress comes up with "very good schemes", it lacks the will to use those schemes properly as those schemes turn into devices to only favour "cronies" and "hum do hamare do".</p>

<p>"Hum do, Hamare do` is that we are two people taking care of the party, and there are two other people who take care of daughter and damad," Sitharaman said, adding "we don`t do that as Rs 10,000 is given to 50 lakh street traders as working capital for one year and they are not anyone`s cronies," Sitharaman said.</p>

<p>"Take the credit of giving birth to MNREGA. But also take credit for mismanaging it, for giving money to ghost workers."</p>

<p>In his remarks against the government, Gandhi had said, "Years ago there was a family planning slogan - Hum do, Hamare do (we two and our two), but just like corona has returned in another form, this slogan too has made a comeback. Today, four people run the country - Hum do, Hamare do," Gandhi had said without taking any names.</p>

<p>Continuing her attack, Sitharaman questioned, "Where are the cronies? They are hiding probably in the shadow of that party which has been rejected by the people. The shadows who were invited to even develop a port. They invited, no open tenders, no global tenders."</p>

<p>Mentioning PM SVANidhi Yojana, the Minister said she mentions it for those who are constantly accusing the government of dealing with cronies.</p>

<p>"SVANidhi doesn`t go to cronies. Damads get land in states which are governed by some parties -- Rajasthan, Haryana once upon a time."</p>

<p>Addressing Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor, Sitharaman said, "Kerala invited one crony to develop a port -- no bidding, just invitation. Because Kerala has no damad, Damad is here. Damads get land in states which are governed by some parties."</p>


Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday hit back at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi`s "Hum do, Hamare do" jibe with the same slogan. She also accused him of playing a role like a "doomsday man" by insulting the legislative authority like the PM, former PM, President and even the Lok Sabha chair.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday hit back at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi`s "Hum do, Hamare do" jibe with the same slogan. She also accused him of playing a role like a "doomsday man" by insulting the legislative authority like the PM, former PM, President and even the Lok Sabha chair. Delivering her final speech on the discussion on Union Budget 2021-2022 in the Lok Sabha, the Finance Minister took on Gandhi saying he is probably becoming the "doomsday man" of India, building "fake narratives" that "demean" the country. Sitharaman`s "doomsday" remark came in an obvious indication when she mentioned without taking Rahul`s name that "there is a `doomsday man` who said two days ago that he will not speak on Budget. What kind of role he wants to play?" Gandhi on Thursday spoke the same line in the Lok Sabha while speaking on the farm laws when the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the President`s Address was already over and he was given time to participate in the ongoing debate on Union Budget 2021-2022. "The leader and its party continuously abusing the legislative by hitting the dignity of PM, former PM, President and the Lok Sabha chair. Why do you always choose to insult the legislative authority?...Abuse and then seek apology, this is the tendency of the party. "The party`s position in Rajya Sabha is different and here in Lok Sabha they show another position. The party is continuously spreading fake narrative. The party follows two tendencies -- create institution, use it for own benefit; create disturbance," Sitharaman said. As Sitharaman was replying to the discussion on the Union Budget, she posed 10 questions about Rahul Gandhi`s speech which was mainly on the farmers` protest, not Union Budget 2021, the finance minister said. Referring to Gandhi`s `Hum do, Hamare do` comment which Gandhi had made in the Lok Sabha to attack the Central government on Thursday over the farm laws, the Minister used the same slogan, mentioning if the party blames the government it should also think about how it is taking care of "daughter and damad". Sitharaman said though the Congress comes up with "very good schemes", it lacks the will to use those schemes properly as those schemes turn into devices to only favour "cronies" and "hum do hamare do". "Hum do, Hamare do` is that we are two people taking care of the party, and there are two other people who take care of daughter and damad," Sitharaman said, adding "we don`t do that as Rs 10,000 is given to 50 lakh street traders as working capital for one year and they are not anyone`s cronies," Sitharaman said. "Take the credit of giving birth to MNREGA. But also take credit for mismanaging it, for giving money to ghost workers." In his remarks against the government, Gandhi had said, "Years ago there was a family planning slogan - Hum do, Hamare do (we two and our two), but just like corona has returned in another form, this slogan too has made a comeback. Today, four people run the country - Hum do, Hamare do," Gandhi had said without taking any names. Continuing her attack, Sitharaman questioned, "Where are the cronies? They are hiding probably in the shadow of that party which has been rejected by the people. The shadows who were invited to even develop a port. They invited, no open tenders, no global tenders." Mentioning PM SVANidhi Yojana, the Minister said she mentions it for those who are constantly accusing the government of dealing with cronies. "SVANidhi doesn`t go to cronies. Damads get land in states which are governed by some parties -- Rajasthan, Haryana once upon a time." Addressing Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor, Sitharaman said, "Kerala invited one crony to develop a port -- no bidding, just invitation. Because Kerala has no damad, Damad is here. Damads get land in states which are governed by some parties."

FM Sitharaman calls Rahul Gandhi a 'doomsday man'

Congress senior leader Rahul Gandhi hits out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over disengagement at Ladakh by Chinese People Liberation Army. He alleges PM Modi of compromising with India's integrity and giving away nation's territory to China. The govt of India in its reply lashes out at Rahul Gandhi and says to 'first must ask Jawaharlal Nehru (India's Former PM) about giving away land to China'.

'PM Modi gave away Indian territory to China', alleges Congress leader Rahul Gandhi

<p>Launching a scathing attack on at Congress leade, Union minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said that Rahul Gandhi doesn’t know anything about farming.</p>

<p>Speaking over Rahul Gandhi’s attacks on the farm laws, Rajnath Singh said he knows more about agriculture than the Congress leader as he was born in an agriculture family and his parents were both farmers.</p>

<p>In an interview with ANI, he said that agriculture laws were in favour of farmers and talks should not be held with "yes or no" mindset.</p>

<p>The remarks of the minister came ahead of the sixth round of talks between the government and the farm unions protesting against the new farm laws enacted by the government.</p>

<p>The minister said that farmers should hold clause by clause talks on the three laws and the government will make amendments if there is a need to do so.<br />
Rajnath Singh, a former union agriculture minister, said the government is totally sensitive towards farmers and the poor of the country and "their pain is our pain".</p>

<p>He said the government cannot take decisions which are not in the interest of farmers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Rahulji is younger to me and I know more than him about agriculture. Because I have been born from womb of a farmer-mother. I am the son of a farmer and we cannot take decisions against the farmers. Our Prime Minister was also born from the womb of a poor mother. I want to say this only and there is no need to say anything else," Singh said.</p>

<p>He was asked about Rahul Gandhi meeting President Ram Nath Kovind and presenting a memorandum with over two crore signatures for repeal of three farm laws. The minister said there have been attempts by "some forces to create doubts in the minds of farmers regarding the farm laws".</p>

<p>"We are trying to remove these doubts. We have talked to many farmers and humbly, I want to say it again that talk with government clause by clause on the law. I think talks should not be held in `yes` or `no`. There should talks based on logic. If the government realizes that there is a need to do amendment in any clause, it will do that," he added.</p>

<p>He appealed to farmers of Punjab not to vandalise communication towers."It should not happen. I think farmers of Punjab should think about it. If anyone is involved in this, then it should be stopped," he said.</p>

<p>The minister said that the contribution of Sikh brothers in protecting the country`s self-respect and its culture will always be remembered."India can never forget the sacrifice of Sikh brothers in protecting the self-respect of the country, its culture," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Launching a scathing attack on at Congress leade, Union minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said that Rahul Gandhi doesn’t know anything about farming. Speaking over Rahul Gandhi’s attacks on the farm laws, Rajnath Singh said he knows more about agriculture than the Congress leader as he was born in an agriculture family and his parents were both farmers.

Launching a scathing attack on at Congress leade, Union minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said that Rahul Gandhi doesn’t know anything about farming. Speaking over Rahul Gandhi’s attacks on the farm laws, Rajnath Singh said he knows more about agriculture than the Congress leader as he was born in an agriculture family and his parents were both farmers. In an interview with ANI, he said that agriculture laws were in favour of farmers and talks should not be held with "yes or no" mindset. The remarks of the minister came ahead of the sixth round of talks between the government and the farm unions protesting against the new farm laws enacted by the government. The minister said that farmers should hold clause by clause talks on the three laws and the government will make amendments if there is a need to do so. Rajnath Singh, a former union agriculture minister, said the government is totally sensitive towards farmers and the poor of the country and "their pain is our pain". He said the government cannot take decisions which are not in the interest of farmers. "Rahulji is younger to me and I know more than him about agriculture. Because I have been born from womb of a farmer-mother. I am the son of a farmer and we cannot take decisions against the farmers. Our Prime Minister was also born from the womb of a poor mother. I want to say this only and there is no need to say anything else," Singh said. He was asked about Rahul Gandhi meeting President Ram Nath Kovind and presenting a memorandum with over two crore signatures for repeal of three farm laws. The minister said there have been attempts by "some forces to create doubts in the minds of farmers regarding the farm laws". "We are trying to remove these doubts. We have talked to many farmers and humbly, I want to say it again that talk with government clause by clause on the law. I think talks should not be held in `yes` or `no`. There should talks based on logic. If the government realizes that there is a need to do amendment in any clause, it will do that," he added. He appealed to farmers of Punjab not to vandalise communication towers."It should not happen. I think farmers of Punjab should think about it. If anyone is involved in this, then it should be stopped," he said. The minister said that the contribution of Sikh brothers in protecting the country`s self-respect and its culture will always be remembered."India can never forget the sacrifice of Sikh brothers in protecting the self-respect of the country, its culture," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

I’m a farmer’s son, know more about agriculture than Rahul Gandhi: Rajnath Singh

<p>Veteran Congress leader and two-time former chief minister Motilal Vora passed away on Monday following post-Covid-19 complications, his family said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vora, who marked his 93rd birth anniversary on Sunday, was admitted to the Escorts Hospital in New Delhi a few days ago as he developed a severe lung infection and was put on ventilator support.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was a two-time former chief minister of the undivided central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh and former Governor of Uttar Pradesh.</p>

<p>In his political career that lasted nearly five decades, he was also elected for the Rajya Sabha (Upper House) for four times and one time for the Lok Sabha (Lower House).</p>

<p>President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi were among the leaders who expressed grief on Vora's demise.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sad to hear that veteran Congress leader Shri Motilal Vora is no more. He was humility personified, and belonged to a generation of leaders who carry their politics with unflinching conviction till end. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.</p>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1340980110883622913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Sad to hear that veteran Congress leader Shri Motilal Vora is no more. He was humility personified, and belonged to a generation of leaders who carry their politics with unflinching conviction till end. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends," Kovind wrote in a tweet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The vice president called him an "ideal" lawmaker and said the nation lost an "honest", "simple" and "committed" leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"When I came to Rajya Sabha in 2014, I used to listen to his speeches and watch his behaviour in the House closely. For me he had the qualities of an ideal Member of Parliament," Naidu said.</p>

<p>"In Vora ji's demise, the country has lost an honest, simple and committed leader. It is an irreplaceable loss not only to the Congress party but also to the country."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi also expressed "sadness" over Vora's demise and paid condolences to his family and well-wishers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Shri Motilal Vora Ji was among the senior-most Congress leaders, who had vast administrative and organisational experience in a political career that spanned decades. Saddened by his demise. Condolences to his family and well-wishers. Om Shanti," the PM's office tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shri Motilal Vora Ji was among the senior-most Congress leaders, who had vast administrative and organisational experience in a political career that spanned decades. Saddened by his demise. Condolences to his family and well-wishers. Om Shanti: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a></p>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1340971721860505602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Rahul described him as a "true" Congress leader and said that the party will "miss him very much".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Vora ji was a true congressman and a wonderful human being. We will miss him very much.<br />
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My love &amp; condolences to his family and friends. <a href="https://t.co/MvBBGGJV27">pic.twitter.com/MvBBGGJV27</a></p>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1340963606486106114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Vora ji was a true congressman and a wonderful human being. We will miss him very much. My love and condolences to his family and friends," Rahul wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>


Veteran Congress leader and two-time former chief minister Motilal Vora passed away on Monday following post-Covid-19 complications, his family said. Vora, who marked his 93rd birth anniversary on Sunday, was admitted to the Escorts Hospital in New Delhi a few days ago as he developed a severe lung infection and was put on ventilator support.

Veteran Congress leader and two-time former chief minister Motilal Vora passed away on Monday following post-Covid-19 complications, his family said. Vora, who marked his 93rd birth anniversary on Sunday, was admitted to the Escorts Hospital in New Delhi a few days ago as he developed a severe lung infection and was put on ventilator support. He was a two-time former chief minister of the undivided central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh and former Governor of Uttar Pradesh. In his political career that lasted nearly five decades, he was also elected for the Rajya Sabha (Upper House) for four times and one time for the Lok Sabha (Lower House). President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi were among the leaders who expressed grief on Vora's demise. Sad to hear that veteran Congress leader Shri Motilal Vora is no more. He was humility personified, and belonged to a generation of leaders who carry their politics with unflinching conviction till end. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) December 21, 2020 × "Sad to hear that veteran Congress leader Shri Motilal Vora is no more. He was humility personified, and belonged to a generation of leaders who carry their politics with unflinching conviction till end. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends," Kovind wrote in a tweet. The vice president called him an "ideal" lawmaker and said the nation lost an "honest", "simple" and "committed" leader. "When I came to Rajya Sabha in 2014, I used to listen to his speeches and watch his behaviour in the House closely. For me he had the qualities of an ideal Member of Parliament," Naidu said. "In Vora ji's demise, the country has lost an honest, simple and committed leader. It is an irreplaceable loss not only to the Congress party but also to the country." Modi also expressed "sadness" over Vora's demise and paid condolences to his family and well-wishers. "Shri Motilal Vora Ji was among the senior-most Congress leaders, who had vast administrative and organisational experience in a political career that spanned decades. Saddened by his demise. Condolences to his family and well-wishers. Om Shanti," the PM's office tweeted. Shri Motilal Vora Ji was among the senior-most Congress leaders, who had vast administrative and organisational experience in a political career that spanned decades. Saddened by his demise. Condolences to his family and well-wishers. Om Shanti: PM @narendramodi — PMO India (@PMOIndia) December 21, 2020 × Rahul described him as a "true" Congress leader and said that the party will "miss him very much". Vora ji was a true congressman and a wonderful human being. We will miss him very much. My love & condolences to his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/MvBBGGJV27 — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) December 21, 2020 × "Vora ji was a true congressman and a wonderful human being. We will miss him very much. My love and condolences to his family and friends," Rahul wrote on Twitter.

Veteran Congress leader Motilal Vora passes away

<p>Senior leader and Congress General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala on Friday said that the party would soon begin the process to elect its new chief, adding that 99.9 per cent of party members back Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Surjewala's comments came as Congress chief Sonia Gandhi is all set to meet the party's rebel leaders who are demanding a structural overhaul and an "active" and "full-time" leadership.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonia-gandhi-agrees-to-meet-rebel-congress-leaders-in-person-350542">Sonia Gandhi agrees to meet 'rebel' Congress leaders in person</a></strong></p>

<p>"Party will soon start the procedure to elect a new party president. Electoral college of Congress, AICC members, Congress workers &amp; members will choose who's best suited. 99.9% of people including me want Rahul Gandhi to be elected as party president," Surjewala was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-extends-support-to-bharat-bandh-as-deadlock-between-farmers-govt-continues-347886">Congress extends support to 'Bharat Bandh' as deadlock between farmers, govt continues</a></strong></p>

<p>India's Grand Old Party is witnessing declining support ever since Prime Minister Narendra Modi established himself in the national politics and later won two general elections with a resounding mandate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rahul was Congress's prime ministerial candidate during the 2019 election in which party again performed poorly, which led to his resignation as the party president.</p>

<p>He also had said that no one from his family, including his mother Sonia and sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will head Congress and ever since his resignation more than a year ago, the party has failed to elect a permanent leader. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Other than Lok Sabha polls, Congress also faced a drubbing in Bihar Assembly polls and lost power in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh.</p>

<p>Its failures triggered 23 dissenting leaders to write a letter demanding an overhaul of the party in August.</p>


Senior leader and Congress General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala on Friday said that the party would soon begin the process to elect its new chief, adding that 99.

Senior leader and Congress General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala on Friday said that the party would soon begin the process to elect its new chief, adding that 99.9 per cent of party members back Rahul Gandhi. Surjewala's comments came as Congress chief Sonia Gandhi is all set to meet the party's rebel leaders who are demanding a structural overhaul and an "active" and "full-time" leadership. Also read | Sonia Gandhi agrees to meet 'rebel' Congress leaders in person "Party will soon start the procedure to elect a new party president. Electoral college of Congress, AICC members, Congress workers & members will choose who's best suited. 99.9% of people including me want Rahul Gandhi to be elected as party president," Surjewala was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times. Also read | Congress extends support to 'Bharat Bandh' as deadlock between farmers, govt continues India's Grand Old Party is witnessing declining support ever since Prime Minister Narendra Modi established himself in the national politics and later won two general elections with a resounding mandate. Rahul was Congress's prime ministerial candidate during the 2019 election in which party again performed poorly, which led to his resignation as the party president. He also had said that no one from his family, including his mother Sonia and sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will head Congress and ever since his resignation more than a year ago, the party has failed to elect a permanent leader. Other than Lok Sabha polls, Congress also faced a drubbing in Bihar Assembly polls and lost power in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. Its failures triggered 23 dissenting leaders to write a letter demanding an overhaul of the party in August.

99.9% want Rahul Gandhi as Congress president: Randeep Surjewala

<p>Congress president Sonia Gandhi is set to meet some of the Congress dissenters who had earlier written a letter to her flagging leadership crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several reports claimed that Gandhi will be holding a series of meetings on December 19 and 20 with party leaders over key issues and will also meet some important members of the rebel leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-extends-support-to-bharat-bandh-as-deadlock-between-farmers-govt-continues-347886">Congress extends support to 'Bharat Bandh' as deadlock between farmers, govt continues</a></strong></p>

<p>It is not clear whether other key Congress leaders and Sonia's children, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will be a part of the meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/khurshid-slams-congress-critics-says-support-to-gandhis-apparent-to-anyone-who-isnt-blind-344717">Khurshid slams Congress critics, says support to Gandhis 'apparent to anyone who isn't blind'</a></strong></p>

<p>The dissent leaders include Leader of Opposition Rajya Sabha (Upper House) Ghulam Nabi Azar and deputy leader of Congress in the Lok Sabha (Rajya Sabha) Anand Sharma will meet the party chief, sources told news agency PTI.</p>

<p>This will be the first face-to-face meeting of Sonia with party leaders after the coronavirus pandemic spread in India.</p>

<p>The meetings will focus on key issues that are concerning Congress, its performance in the recent polls and its strategy ahead of the winter session of Parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports suggest that senior Congress leader and former Madhya Pradesh CM Kamal Nath played a key role in acting as a mediator between Congress dissenters and party leadership which resulted in this meeting.</p>

<p>On August, 23 Congress leaders signed a letter demanding party to have a "full and active leadership", more than a year after its lacklustre performance in the 2019 general election and after it lost power in the state of Madhya Pradesh. &nbsp;</p>


Congress president Sonia Gandhi is set to meet some of the Congress dissenters who had earlier written a letter to her flagging leadership crisis. Several reports claimed that Gandhi will be holding a series of meetings on December 19 and 20 with party leaders over key issues and will also meet some important members of the rebel leaders.

Congress president Sonia Gandhi is set to meet some of the Congress dissenters who had earlier written a letter to her flagging leadership crisis. Several reports claimed that Gandhi will be holding a series of meetings on December 19 and 20 with party leaders over key issues and will also meet some important members of the rebel leaders. Also read | Congress extends support to 'Bharat Bandh' as deadlock between farmers, govt continues It is not clear whether other key Congress leaders and Sonia's children, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will be a part of the meeting. Also read | Khurshid slams Congress critics, says support to Gandhis 'apparent to anyone who isn't blind' The dissent leaders include Leader of Opposition Rajya Sabha (Upper House) Ghulam Nabi Azar and deputy leader of Congress in the Lok Sabha (Rajya Sabha) Anand Sharma will meet the party chief, sources told news agency PTI. This will be the first face-to-face meeting of Sonia with party leaders after the coronavirus pandemic spread in India. The meetings will focus on key issues that are concerning Congress, its performance in the recent polls and its strategy ahead of the winter session of Parliament. Reports suggest that senior Congress leader and former Madhya Pradesh CM Kamal Nath played a key role in acting as a mediator between Congress dissenters and party leadership which resulted in this meeting. On August, 23 Congress leaders signed a letter demanding party to have a "full and active leadership", more than a year after its lacklustre performance in the 2019 general election and after it lost power in the state of Madhya Pradesh.

Sonia Gandhi agrees to meet 'rebel' Congress leaders in person

<p>Senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid on Sunday slammed other leaders for criticising the grand old party for its dismal performance in recent elections and declining support.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Khurshid, who is considered close to the Gandhi family, said that overall support for Sonia and Rahul Gandhi is "apparent to anyone who is not blind".</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajasthan-cm-ashok-gehlot-slams-senior-party-leader-kapil-sibal-for-congress-criticism-343567">Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot slams senior party leader Kapil Sibal for Congress criticism</a></strong></p>

<p>"I think that is apparent to anyone who is not blind, that people are fully supportive of Congress president Sonia ji and of Mr Rahul Gandhi, who is our former president. Everybody supports them," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-like-a-child-trying-to-impress-teacher-barack-obama-says-in-his-new-memoir-a-promised-land-342781">Rahul Gandhi like a child trying to impress teacher: Barack Obama says in his new memoir 'A Promised Land'</a></strong></p>

<p>In an interview to news agency PTI, he also said that the party's leadership "listens" to other party members and voicing out the views outside the party forums "hurts" it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The leadership listens to me, I am given an opportunity, they (those criticising in the media) are given an opportunity, where does this thing come from that the leadership is not listening," Khurshid said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, leaders and former Cabinet ministers like Kapil Sibal and P Chidambaram had said that the time for introspection is over and the party has failed to remain as the top alternative to the ruling BJP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Analysis is done all the time, there is no quarrel about analysis. It will be done. The leadership, of which all these people are a part, will appropriately look at what may have gone wrong, how we could have improved, and that will happen in the normal course, we needn't talk about it in the public," Khurshid added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Khurshid also said that he agreed with the views of other leaders who have openly criticised but adds that there was no reason to air these opinions to media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked that the party has still not elected its president for more than a year following its poor show in the general election, Khurshid gave examples of several parties that are running without presidents and said the process to choose party chief is being conducted and there is a good reason why the process is taking the time. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"Nobody has gone away, they are all here. The only insistence is on a label, why do you insist on a label. There is no president in the Bahujan Samaj Party, there is no chairman in the Left wing parties, only general secretaries...Every party cannot follow the same model," the senior Congress leader said.&nbsp;</p>


Senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid on Sunday slammed other leaders for criticising the grand old party for its dismal performance in recent elections and declining support.

Senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid on Sunday slammed other leaders for criticising the grand old party for its dismal performance in recent elections and declining support. Khurshid, who is considered close to the Gandhi family, said that overall support for Sonia and Rahul Gandhi is "apparent to anyone who is not blind". Also read | Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot slams senior party leader Kapil Sibal for Congress criticism "I think that is apparent to anyone who is not blind, that people are fully supportive of Congress president Sonia ji and of Mr Rahul Gandhi, who is our former president. Everybody supports them," he said. Also read | Rahul Gandhi like a child trying to impress teacher: Barack Obama says in his new memoir 'A Promised Land' In an interview to news agency PTI, he also said that the party's leadership "listens" to other party members and voicing out the views outside the party forums "hurts" it. "The leadership listens to me, I am given an opportunity, they (those criticising in the media) are given an opportunity, where does this thing come from that the leadership is not listening," Khurshid said. Recently, leaders and former Cabinet ministers like Kapil Sibal and P Chidambaram had said that the time for introspection is over and the party has failed to remain as the top alternative to the ruling BJP. "Analysis is done all the time, there is no quarrel about analysis. It will be done. The leadership, of which all these people are a part, will appropriately look at what may have gone wrong, how we could have improved, and that will happen in the normal course, we needn't talk about it in the public," Khurshid added. Khurshid also said that he agreed with the views of other leaders who have openly criticised but adds that there was no reason to air these opinions to media. When asked that the party has still not elected its president for more than a year following its poor show in the general election, Khurshid gave examples of several parties that are running without presidents and said the process to choose party chief is being conducted and there is a good reason why the process is taking the time. "Nobody has gone away, they are all here. The only insistence is on a label, why do you insist on a label. There is no president in the Bahujan Samaj Party, there is no chairman in the Left wing parties, only general secretaries...Every party cannot follow the same model," the senior Congress leader said.

Khurshid slams Congress critics, says support to Gandhis 'apparent to anyone who isn't blind '

<p>In his new memoir called 'A Promised Land', the former US President Barack Obama has opened up about several political leaders from around the world. Two of these descriptions include the Indian politician&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi and former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, according to the New York Times.<br />
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-sonias-beauty-to-manmohans-integrity-heres-what-barack-obama-wrote-on-congress-leaders-342800"><strong>Also read | From Sonia's beauty to Manmohan's 'integrity': Here's what Barack Obama wrote on Congress leaders</strong></a><br />
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Talking about the former Prime Minister, who is also responsible for various important economic reforms of the country, Obama said he could sense a kind of impassive integrity. "Secretary of Defense Bob Gates and the Indian prime minister Manmohan Singh both come across as having a kind of impassive integrity," he has been quoted by The New York Times.</p>

<p>However, Rahul Gandhi's description was of a different category. Obama compared Rahul Gandhi to a school student who was eager to impress a teacher.</p>

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<p>"Rahul Gandhi has 'a nervous, unformed quality about him, as if he were a student who'd done the coursework and was eager to impress the teacher but deep down lacked either the aptitude or the passion to master the subject," Obama says in his book.</p>

<p>Gandhi had met Obama during his India visit in 2017, and had taken to share a picture with him.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Had a fruitful chat with President <a href="https://twitter.com/BarackObama?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BarackObama</a> Great to meet him again. <a href="https://t.co/LCJKGBg0Qr">pic.twitter.com/LCJKGBg0Qr</a></p>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/936621593832448000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Former President also talks about the Russian President Vladimir Putin calling him 'physically unremarkable'. "Vladimir Putin reminds him of the tough, street-smart ward bosses who used to run the Chicago machine. Also on Putin: "Physically, he was unremarkable"</p>

<p>He also talked about the&nbsp;46th President-elect of the US and his former Vice President, Joe Biden saying he is "a decent, honest, loyal man who Obama senses 'might get prickly if he thought he wasn't given his due - a quality that might flare up when dealing with a much younger boss'," Obama has been quoted in The New York Times.</p>


In his new memoir called 'A Promised Land', the former US President Barack Obama has opened up about several political leaders from around the world. Two of these descriptions include the Indian politician Rahul Gandhi and former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, according to the New York Times.

In his new memoir called 'A Promised Land', the former US President Barack Obama has opened up about several political leaders from around the world. Two of these descriptions include the Indian politician Rahul Gandhi and former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, according to the New York Times. Also read | From Sonia's beauty to Manmohan's 'integrity': Here's what Barack Obama wrote on Congress leaders Talking about the former Prime Minister, who is also responsible for various important economic reforms of the country, Obama said he could sense a kind of impassive integrity. "Secretary of Defense Bob Gates and the Indian prime minister Manmohan Singh both come across as having a kind of impassive integrity," he has been quoted by The New York Times. However, Rahul Gandhi's description was of a different category. Obama compared Rahul Gandhi to a school student who was eager to impress a teacher. × "Rahul Gandhi has 'a nervous, unformed quality about him, as if he were a student who'd done the coursework and was eager to impress the teacher but deep down lacked either the aptitude or the passion to master the subject," Obama says in his book. Gandhi had met Obama during his India visit in 2017, and had taken to share a picture with him. Had a fruitful chat with President @BarackObama Great to meet him again. pic.twitter.com/LCJKGBg0Qr — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) December 1, 2017 × The Former President also talks about the Russian President Vladimir Putin calling him 'physically unremarkable'. "Vladimir Putin reminds him of the tough, street-smart ward bosses who used to run the Chicago machine. Also on Putin: "Physically, he was unremarkable" He also talked about the 46th President-elect of the US and his former Vice President, Joe Biden saying he is "a decent, honest, loyal man who Obama senses 'might get prickly if he thought he wasn't given his due - a quality that might flare up when dealing with a much younger boss'," Obama has been quoted in The New York Times.

Rahul Gandhi like a child trying to impress teacher: Barack Obama says in his new memoir 'A Promised Land'

<p>Former US President Barack Obama's memoir 'A Promised Land', which will go on sale on Tuesday, interestingly, mentions&nbsp;several senior Indian leaders from Congress.</p>

<p>Former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Congress President Sonia Gandhi and senior leader Rahul Gandhi find mention in the book.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-like-a-child-trying-to-impress-teacher-barack-obama-says-in-his-new-memoir-a-promised-land-342781">Rahul Gandhi like a child trying to impress teacher: Barack Obama says in his new memoir 'A Promised Land'</a></strong></p>

<p>Obama compared Singh with former US Secretary of Defence Bob Gates, saying both coming across as "having a kind of impassive integrity".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/remake-the-world-barack-obama-urges-youngsters-in-his-new-memoir-a-promised-land-342779">'Remake the world': Barack Obama urges youngsters in his new memoir 'A Promised Land'</a></strong></p>

<p>The former president also wrote about Sonia's beauty, saying "we are told of the handsomeness of men like Charlie Crist and Rahm Emanuel, but not the beauty of women, except for one or two instances, as in the case of Sonia Gandhi."</p>

<p>While describing Rahul Gandhi, Obama called him a "student" who "was eager to impress the teacher" but lacked "either the aptitude or the aptitude to master the subject".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rahul has "a nervous, unformed quality about him, as if he were a student who’d done the coursework and was eager to impress the teacher but deep down lacked either the aptitude or the passion to master the subject," writes Obama.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Obama also wrote on the recent US President-elect Joe Biden, who was also the vice president during his tenure, saying: "He is a decent man who might get prickly if he thought he wasn’t given his due –– a quality that might flare up when dealing with a much younger boss".&nbsp;</p>


Former US President Barack Obama's memoir 'A Promised Land', which will go on sale on Tuesday, interestingly, mentions several senior Indian leaders from Congress.

Former US President Barack Obama's memoir 'A Promised Land', which will go on sale on Tuesday, interestingly, mentions several senior Indian leaders from Congress. Former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Congress President Sonia Gandhi and senior leader Rahul Gandhi find mention in the book. Also read | Rahul Gandhi like a child trying to impress teacher: Barack Obama says in his new memoir 'A Promised Land' Obama compared Singh with former US Secretary of Defence Bob Gates, saying both coming across as "having a kind of impassive integrity". Also read | 'Remake the world': Barack Obama urges youngsters in his new memoir 'A Promised Land' The former president also wrote about Sonia's beauty, saying "we are told of the handsomeness of men like Charlie Crist and Rahm Emanuel, but not the beauty of women, except for one or two instances, as in the case of Sonia Gandhi." While describing Rahul Gandhi, Obama called him a "student" who "was eager to impress the teacher" but lacked "either the aptitude or the aptitude to master the subject". Rahul has "a nervous, unformed quality about him, as if he were a student who’d done the coursework and was eager to impress the teacher but deep down lacked either the aptitude or the passion to master the subject," writes Obama. × Obama also wrote on the recent US President-elect Joe Biden, who was also the vice president during his tenure, saying: "He is a decent man who might get prickly if he thought he wasn’t given his due –– a quality that might flare up when dealing with a much younger boss".

From Sonia's beauty to Manmohan's 'integrity': Here's what Barack Obama wrote on Congress leaders

Obama spills the beans on his meetings with foreign leaders in an upcoming memoir. The Former President talks about Sonia Gandhi's 'beauty' and describes Manmohan Singh as having 'impassive integrity'. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: 'Nervous, unformed': Obama's impression of Rahul Gandhi

<p>The rise of Asaduddin Owaisi in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-election-results-2020-nda-gets-absolute-majority-with-125-seats-mahagathbandhan-settles-with-110-seats-342291">Bihar</a> politics has taken all political parties by surprise. He has not only done well but also won seats in Muslim majority constituencies.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">How a political party, which was limited to Hyderabad city, has managed to make a dent in Maharashtra's Aurangabad, Mumbai, and the recently-held assembly elections in Bihar<br />
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WION's <a href="https://twitter.com/kartikeya_1975?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kartikeya_1975</a> analyses the rise of AIMIM chief <a href="https://twitter.com/asadowaisi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@asadowaisi</a> and his impact on national politics <a href="https://t.co/pt2XqYKI9R">pic.twitter.com/pt2XqYKI9R</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1326931511979900928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>What is most surprising is the rise of a small city-based party in states like Bihar and Maharashtra which have no historical connection with his party. It is the political position taken by Owaisi on contemporary issues that has hit&nbsp;a chord with a certain section of the electorate in different states.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-elections-tejashwi-yadav-leader-of-single-largest-party-rjd-demands-recount-342683">Also Read:&nbsp;Tejashwi Yadav, leader of single-largest party RJD, demands recount</a></p>

<p>Speaking to WION, Asaduddin said, "Muslims are disempowered and mainstream parties like Congress have failed them. Congress is not fighting <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/family-run-parties-biggest-threat-to-indias-democracy-pm-modi-after-bihar-win-342464">BJP </a>enough." Owaisi said that he is being blamed by regional and national parties for cutting the secular vote, but secular parties are the ones who have been&nbsp;refraining from taking up minority issues. Political secularism is a joke," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also said that people should ask the question why Rahul Gandhi shifted his constituency from Amethi to Wayanad? "He shifted because of substantial Muslim presence in Wayanad," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/why-bihar-results-are-important-for-india-341995">Also Read:&nbsp;Why Bihar results are important for India</a></p>

<p>There is some truth in Owaisi's claim. Mainstream political parties have given up on constitutional nationalism. They are shying away from issues causing anxiety in the community. National parties seem to be opposing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chirag-paswan-credits-bihar-polls-victory-to-pm-narendra-modi-342358">BJP </a>less as the national narrative has made constitutional nationalism less appealing. On the other hand, Owaisi has been taking up all issues head-on which major parties have remained silent throughout the political campaign.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Owaisi is also bitter with Congress. "Rahul Gandhi used to say in rallies that a man is para-dropping in these elections in a helicopter. Only Rahul Gandhi has the right to travel in helicopters," asked Owaisi. &nbsp;</p>

<p>He maintains that he has received support from the minority community because major political parties are not giving enough representation to the Muslims and their economic issues are not being addressed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also counters the charge that he is helping sectarian politics grow. He says that no one has asked political parties to not to speak about Muslims, but it is just so that they are not talking about them. Rise of Owaisi is also not completely out of sync with trends of the last 40 years.</p>

<p>Backward caste politics has been splintered into caste-based politics. Rise of BJP has led to the consolidation of the majority of Hindus under a bloc and minority politics has seen the emergence of leaders and social media who are solely taking up minority issues.&nbsp;</p>


The rise of Asaduddin Owaisi in Bihar politics has taken all political parties by surprise. He has not only done well but also won seats in Muslim majority constituencies.

The rise of Asaduddin Owaisi in Bihar politics has taken all political parties by surprise. He has not only done well but also won seats in Muslim majority constituencies. How a political party, which was limited to Hyderabad city, has managed to make a dent in Maharashtra's Aurangabad, Mumbai, and the recently-held assembly elections in Bihar WION's @kartikeya_1975 analyses the rise of AIMIM chief @asadowaisi and his impact on national politics pic.twitter.com/pt2XqYKI9R — WION (@WIONews) November 12, 2020 × What is most surprising is the rise of a small city-based party in states like Bihar and Maharashtra which have no historical connection with his party. It is the political position taken by Owaisi on contemporary issues that has hit a chord with a certain section of the electorate in different states. Also Read: Tejashwi Yadav, leader of single-largest party RJD, demands recount Speaking to WION, Asaduddin said, "Muslims are disempowered and mainstream parties like Congress have failed them. Congress is not fighting BJP enough." Owaisi said that he is being blamed by regional and national parties for cutting the secular vote, but secular parties are the ones who have been refraining from taking up minority issues. Political secularism is a joke," he said. He also said that people should ask the question why Rahul Gandhi shifted his constituency from Amethi to Wayanad? "He shifted because of substantial Muslim presence in Wayanad," he said. Also Read: Why Bihar results are important for India There is some truth in Owaisi's claim. Mainstream political parties have given up on constitutional nationalism. They are shying away from issues causing anxiety in the community. National parties seem to be opposing BJP less as the national narrative has made constitutional nationalism less appealing. On the other hand, Owaisi has been taking up all issues head-on which major parties have remained silent throughout the political campaign. Owaisi is also bitter with Congress. "Rahul Gandhi used to say in rallies that a man is para-dropping in these elections in a helicopter. Only Rahul Gandhi has the right to travel in helicopters," asked Owaisi. He maintains that he has received support from the minority community because major political parties are not giving enough representation to the Muslims and their economic issues are not being addressed. He also counters the charge that he is helping sectarian politics grow. He says that no one has asked political parties to not to speak about Muslims, but it is just so that they are not talking about them. Rise of Owaisi is also not completely out of sync with trends of the last 40 years. Backward caste politics has been splintered into caste-based politics. Rise of BJP has led to the consolidation of the majority of Hindus under a bloc and minority politics has seen the emergence of leaders and social media who are solely taking up minority issues.

Political secularism is a farce, says Asaduddin Owaisi

<p>Indian Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Saturday congratulated Joe Biden and Kamala Harris after Biden was declared winner of US Presidential Election 2020 by news networks in the USA. The former Indian National Congress president expressed the pride he felt owing to USA's first woman vice-president having roots in India. Gandhi said that he was confident that Biden would 'unite America'.</p>

<p>"Congratulations to President-elect @JoeBiden. I’m confident that he will unite America and provide it with a strong sense of direction," tweeted Rahul Gandhi</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations to President-elect <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a>. I’m confident that he will unite America and provide it with a strong sense of direction.</p>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1325123569240559617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>For Kamala Harris, Rahul Gandhi had these words.</p>

<p>"Congratulations, Vice-President-elect @KamalaHarris! It makes us proud that the first woman to serve as Vice President of the USA traces her roots to India,"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations, Vice-President-elect <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KamalaHarris</a>! It makes us proud that the first woman to serve as Vice President of the USA traces her roots to India.</p>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1325128340693397506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kamala Harris was born on October 20, 1964 in Oakland, California to a Jamaican father and Indian mother. Her mother Shyamala Gopalan carved out a career as a cancer researcher while her father Donald Harris taught Economics at Stanford University. Kamala Harris' younger sister Maya is a public policy advocate.</p>

<p>Kamala Harris has her family roots in Thulasethirapuram in Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The villagers have been proud of Kamala Harris ever since she was picked as a running mate of Joe Biden.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-changes-twitter-bio-to-president-elect-within-minutes-of-declared-victory-341470">Joe Biden changes Twitter bio to President-Elect within minutes of declared victory</a></strong><br />
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A few days ago the villagers even prayed for Kamala Harriss' victory. Large posters were erected in the vicinity of the village with Kamala Harris on it.</p>

<p>Villagers gathered in Sri Dharmasastha temple in the village and prayed for her victory.</p>

<p>Kamala Harris is not just first woman to assume Vice-Presidential office but she is also first non-white woman to win Vice-Presidential ticket of a major political party in the USA.</p>


Indian Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Saturday congratulated Joe Biden and Kamala Harris after Biden was declared winner of US Presidential Election 2020 by news networks in the USA.

Indian Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Saturday congratulated Joe Biden and Kamala Harris after Biden was declared winner of US Presidential Election 2020 by news networks in the USA. The former Indian National Congress president expressed the pride he felt owing to USA's first woman vice-president having roots in India. Gandhi said that he was confident that Biden would 'unite America'. "Congratulations to President-elect @JoeBiden. I’m confident that he will unite America and provide it with a strong sense of direction," tweeted Rahul Gandhi Congratulations to President-elect @JoeBiden. I’m confident that he will unite America and provide it with a strong sense of direction. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 7, 2020 × For Kamala Harris, Rahul Gandhi had these words. "Congratulations, Vice-President-elect @KamalaHarris! It makes us proud that the first woman to serve as Vice President of the USA traces her roots to India," Congratulations, Vice-President-elect @KamalaHarris! It makes us proud that the first woman to serve as Vice President of the USA traces her roots to India. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 7, 2020 × Kamala Harris was born on October 20, 1964 in Oakland, California to a Jamaican father and Indian mother. Her mother Shyamala Gopalan carved out a career as a cancer researcher while her father Donald Harris taught Economics at Stanford University. Kamala Harris' younger sister Maya is a public policy advocate. Kamala Harris has her family roots in Thulasethirapuram in Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The villagers have been proud of Kamala Harris ever since she was picked as a running mate of Joe Biden. Also Read | Joe Biden changes Twitter bio to President-Elect within minutes of declared victory A few days ago the villagers even prayed for Kamala Harriss' victory. Large posters were erected in the vicinity of the village with Kamala Harris on it. Villagers gathered in Sri Dharmasastha temple in the village and prayed for her victory. Kamala Harris is not just first woman to assume Vice-Presidential office but she is also first non-white woman to win Vice-Presidential ticket of a major political party in the USA.

Proud that first woman Vice President of USA has Indian roots: Rahul Gandhi

<p>After a long and tense wait, it is finally clear that Democratic <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden </a>will be the next president of the United States. The results came out after it was declared by various US media houses that Biden has claimed the decisive state of Pennsylvania. Later, Biden secured victory in the state of Nevada too, stretching his electoral count to 290, which is 19 more than the mandatory 271.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, wishes from several prominent leaders poured in for the former vice president and the next Vice President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Canadian PM Justin Trudeau was one of the first leaders to congratulate Biden on his victory, saying he "really looks forward to working together".&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations, <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KamalaHarris</a>. Our two countries are close friends, partners, and allies. We share a relationship that’s unique on the world stage. I’m really looking forward to working together and building on that with you both.</p>
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinTrudeau/status/1325121342568505346?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Indian Prime Minister also wished both Biden and Harris via Twitter, saying he looks "forward to working closely together" to take bilateral relations to "greater heights".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a> on your spectacular victory! As the VP, your contribution to strengthening Indo-US relations was critical and invaluable. I look forward to working closely together once again to take India-US relations to greater heights. <a href="https://t.co/yAOCEcs9bN">pic.twitter.com/yAOCEcs9bN</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1325145433828593664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>He also wished Harris saying her "success is pathbreaking, and a matter of immense pride not just for your chittis, but also for all Indian-Americans."</p>

<p>"I am confident that the vibrant India-US ties will get even stronger with your support and leadership".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Heartiest congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KamalaHarris</a>! Your success is pathbreaking, and a matter of immense pride not just for your chittis, but also for all Indian-Americans. I am confident that the vibrant India-US ties will get even stronger with your support and leadership.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1325145671742054400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Director-General of the World Health Organization, who has been in cross-hairs with Donald Trump over the issue of the coronavirus pandemic, also tweeted in support of Biden saying, "Congratulations to President-elect&nbsp;@JoeBiden&nbsp;&amp; Vice President-Elect @KamalaHarris! My&nbsp;@WHO&nbsp;colleagues and I look forward to working with you and your teams. Crises like the #COVID19 pandemic show the importance of global solidarity in protecting lives and livelihoods. Together!"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations to President-elect <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a> &amp; Vice President-Elect <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KamalaHarris</a>! My <a href="https://twitter.com/WHO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WHO</a> colleagues and I look forward to working with you and your teams. Crises like the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> pandemic show the importance of global solidarity in protecting lives and livelihoods. Together!</p>
— Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrTedros/status/1325351387698520066?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Indian President Ram Nath Kovind, too, took to Twitter to congratulate the Democrat duo.</p>

<p>"&nbsp;I wish&nbsp;@JoeBiden&nbsp;a successful tenure and look forward to working with him to further strengthen India-US relations," he tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My sincere felicitations to Joseph R. Biden on his election as President of the United States of America and <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KamalaHarris</a>, as Vice President. I wish <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a> a successful tenure and look forward to working with him to further strengthen India-US relations.</p>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1325149711787982851?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Hillary Clinton, who ran for the presidency in 2016 against Trump, also congratulated Biden and Harris.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's a history-making ticket, a repudiation of Trump, and a new page for America," Clinton wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Thank you to everyone who helped make this happen. Onward, together."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The voters have spoken, and they have chosen <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KamalaHarris</a> to be our next president and vice president.<br />
<br />
It's a history-making ticket, a repudiation of Trump, and a new page for America.<br />
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Thank you to everyone who helped make this happen. Onward, together. <a href="https://t.co/YlDY9TJONs">pic.twitter.com/YlDY9TJONs</a></p>
— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) <a href="https://twitter.com/HillaryClinton/status/1325118585434468353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Indian leaders were also not behind in wishing Biden as senior Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Shashi Tharoor.</p>

<p>"I'm confident that he will unite America and provide it with a strong sense of direction," Gandhi in a tweet said.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations to President-elect <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a>. I’m confident that he will unite America and provide it with a strong sense of direction.</p>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1325123569240559617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">All Indian democrats will echo this sentiment as we join <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> in applauding <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KamalaHarris</a>. On a personal note, delighted to have a US V-P who enjoys idlis and makes dosas! <a href="https://t.co/iRL9IassFi">https://t.co/iRL9IassFi</a></p>
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShashiTharoor/status/1325132600139149312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ireland Prime Minister Taoiseach Micheál Martin described Biden as "a true friend to this nation" in his congratulatory message.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I want to congratulate the new President Elect of the USA <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a> Joe Biden has been a true friend of this nation throughout his life and I look forward to working with him in the years ahead. I also look forward to welcoming him back home when the circumstances allow! 🇮🇪 🇺🇸</p>
— Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichealMartinTD/status/1325115676873388035?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a> on his election as President of the United States of America.<br />
<br />
He ran a campaign on the values that we in the United Kingdom share - decency, integrity, compassion and strength.</p>
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) <a href="https://twitter.com/Keir_Starmer/status/1325116305540780032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>UK's top opposition leader Keir Starmer said the president-elect had run a campaign on "the values that we in the United Kingdom share - decency, integrity, compassion and strength".</p>

<p>Pakistan's Prime Minister, Imran Khan, too, congratulated Joe Biden and said he looks&nbsp;"forward to President-Elect Biden's Global Summit on Democracy &amp; working with him to end illegal tax havens &amp; stealth of nation's wealth by corrupt ldrs."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KamalaHarris</a>. Look forward to President Elect Biden's Global Summit on Democracy &amp; working with him to end illegal tax havens &amp; stealth of nation's wealth by corrupt ldrs. We will also continue to work with US for peace in Afghanistan &amp; in the region</p>
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1325150531422220288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The tech giant Bill Gates also joined in and sent his wishes to the President-elect and the Vice president-elect. He also thanked the various campaign employees and volunteers who helped Americans to register and vote. "Congratulations to President-Elect Biden and Vice President-Elect Harris. Thank you to the election officials and campaign workers who worked tirelessly to ensure a record number of Americans could cast a ballot and have it counted during such a challenging time for our country," he tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations to President-Elect Biden and Vice President-Elect Harris. Thank you to the election officials and campaign workers who worked tirelessly to ensure a record number of Americans could cast a ballot and have it counted during such an challenging time for our country.</p>
— Bill Gates (@BillGates) <a href="https://twitter.com/BillGates/status/1325138314861580289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Tibetan spiritual guru Dalai Lama wrote a letter to the President-elect appreciating America's value of democracy and said, "Humanity places great hope in the democratic vision and leadership of the US as leader of the free world. Particularly in these challenging times, I hope you will be able to contribute to shaping a more peaceful world in which people suffering poverty and injustice find relief."</p>

<p>Further, he thanked Biden for&nbsp;"support for the Tibetan people, during your time in Congress and the previous administration, as well as for your statement in September this year. It has been the Tibetan people`s good fortune to have received the friendship and encouragement of the American people and their respective Presidents in our endeavor to protect and preserve our ancient Buddhist culture -- a culture of peace, non-violence and compassion -- that has great potential to benefit humanity as a whole," he said.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;Nobel Peace Laureate also appreciated Biden's choice of Vice President-elect saying, "May I also commend you for your choice of a woman, Kamala Harris, to be your Vice President."</p>


After a long and tense wait, it is finally clear that Democratic Joe Biden will be the next president of the United States. The results came out after it was declared by various US media houses that Biden has claimed the decisive state of Pennsylvania.

After a long and tense wait, it is finally clear that Democratic Joe Biden will be the next president of the United States. The results came out after it was declared by various US media houses that Biden has claimed the decisive state of Pennsylvania. Later, Biden secured victory in the state of Nevada too, stretching his electoral count to 290, which is 19 more than the mandatory 271. Meanwhile, wishes from several prominent leaders poured in for the former vice president and the next Vice President Kamala Harris. Canadian PM Justin Trudeau was one of the first leaders to congratulate Biden on his victory, saying he "really looks forward to working together". Congratulations, @JoeBiden and @KamalaHarris. Our two countries are close friends, partners, and allies. We share a relationship that’s unique on the world stage. I’m really looking forward to working together and building on that with you both. — Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) November 7, 2020 × Indian Prime Minister also wished both Biden and Harris via Twitter, saying he looks "forward to working closely together" to take bilateral relations to "greater heights". Congratulations @JoeBiden on your spectacular victory! As the VP, your contribution to strengthening Indo-US relations was critical and invaluable. I look forward to working closely together once again to take India-US relations to greater heights. pic.twitter.com/yAOCEcs9bN — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 7, 2020 × He also wished Harris saying her "success is pathbreaking, and a matter of immense pride not just for your chittis, but also for all Indian-Americans." "I am confident that the vibrant India-US ties will get even stronger with your support and leadership". Heartiest congratulations @KamalaHarris! Your success is pathbreaking, and a matter of immense pride not just for your chittis, but also for all Indian-Americans. I am confident that the vibrant India-US ties will get even stronger with your support and leadership. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 7, 2020 × Director-General of the World Health Organization, who has been in cross-hairs with Donald Trump over the issue of the coronavirus pandemic, also tweeted in support of Biden saying, "Congratulations to President-elect @JoeBiden & Vice President-Elect @KamalaHarris! My @WHO colleagues and I look forward to working with you and your teams. Crises like the #COVID19 pandemic show the importance of global solidarity in protecting lives and livelihoods. Together!" Congratulations to President-elect @JoeBiden & Vice President-Elect @KamalaHarris! My @WHO colleagues and I look forward to working with you and your teams. Crises like the #COVID19 pandemic show the importance of global solidarity in protecting lives and livelihoods. Together! — Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) November 8, 2020 × The Indian President Ram Nath Kovind, too, took to Twitter to congratulate the Democrat duo. " I wish @JoeBiden a successful tenure and look forward to working with him to further strengthen India-US relations," he tweeted. My sincere felicitations to Joseph R. Biden on his election as President of the United States of America and @KamalaHarris, as Vice President. I wish @JoeBiden a successful tenure and look forward to working with him to further strengthen India-US relations. — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) November 7, 2020 × Hillary Clinton, who ran for the presidency in 2016 against Trump, also congratulated Biden and Harris. "It's a history-making ticket, a repudiation of Trump, and a new page for America," Clinton wrote on Twitter. "Thank you to everyone who helped make this happen. Onward, together." The voters have spoken, and they have chosen @JoeBiden and @KamalaHarris to be our next president and vice president. It's a history-making ticket, a repudiation of Trump, and a new page for America. Thank you to everyone who helped make this happen. Onward, together. pic.twitter.com/YlDY9TJONs — Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) November 7, 2020 × Indian leaders were also not behind in wishing Biden as senior Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Shashi Tharoor. "I'm confident that he will unite America and provide it with a strong sense of direction," Gandhi in a tweet said. Congratulations to President-elect @JoeBiden. I’m confident that he will unite America and provide it with a strong sense of direction. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 7, 2020 × All Indian democrats will echo this sentiment as we join @RahulGandhi in applauding @JoeBiden & @KamalaHarris. On a personal note, delighted to have a US V-P who enjoys idlis and makes dosas! https://t.co/iRL9IassFi — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) November 7, 2020 × Ireland Prime Minister Taoiseach Micheál Martin described Biden as "a true friend to this nation" in his congratulatory message. I want to congratulate the new President Elect of the USA @JoeBiden Joe Biden has been a true friend of this nation throughout his life and I look forward to working with him in the years ahead. I also look forward to welcoming him back home when the circumstances allow! 🇮🇪 🇺🇸 — Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) November 7, 2020 × Congratulations to @JoeBiden on his election as President of the United States of America. He ran a campaign on the values that we in the United Kingdom share - decency, integrity, compassion and strength. — Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) November 7, 2020 × UK's top opposition leader Keir Starmer said the president-elect had run a campaign on "the values that we in the United Kingdom share - decency, integrity, compassion and strength". Pakistan's Prime Minister, Imran Khan, too, congratulated Joe Biden and said he looks "forward to President-Elect Biden's Global Summit on Democracy & working with him to end illegal tax havens & stealth of nation's wealth by corrupt ldrs." Congratulations @JoeBiden & @KamalaHarris. Look forward to President Elect Biden's Global Summit on Democracy & working with him to end illegal tax havens & stealth of nation's wealth by corrupt ldrs. We will also continue to work with US for peace in Afghanistan & in the region — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) November 7, 2020 × The tech giant Bill Gates also joined in and sent his wishes to the President-elect and the Vice president-elect. He also thanked the various campaign employees and volunteers who helped Americans to register and vote. "Congratulations to President-Elect Biden and Vice President-Elect Harris. Thank you to the election officials and campaign workers who worked tirelessly to ensure a record number of Americans could cast a ballot and have it counted during such a challenging time for our country," he tweeted. Congratulations to President-Elect Biden and Vice President-Elect Harris. Thank you to the election officials and campaign workers who worked tirelessly to ensure a record number of Americans could cast a ballot and have it counted during such an challenging time for our country. — Bill Gates (@BillGates) November 7, 2020 × Tibetan spiritual guru Dalai Lama wrote a letter to the President-elect appreciating America's value of democracy and said, "Humanity places great hope in the democratic vision and leadership of the US as leader of the free world. Particularly in these challenging times, I hope you will be able to contribute to shaping a more peaceful world in which people suffering poverty and injustice find relief." Further, he thanked Biden for "support for the Tibetan people, during your time in Congress and the previous administration, as well as for your statement in September this year. It has been the Tibetan people`s good fortune to have received the friendship and encouragement of the American people and their respective Presidents in our endeavor to protect and preserve our ancient Buddhist culture -- a culture of peace, non-violence and compassion -- that has great potential to benefit humanity as a whole," he said. The Nobel Peace Laureate also appreciated Biden's choice of Vice President-elect saying, "May I also commend you for your choice of a woman, Kamala Harris, to be your Vice President."

US election 2020: Wishes pour in as Joe Biden wins presidency

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>Priyanka Gandhi said that the aggrieved family wants adequate security. "</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>


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

<p>Speaking to WION, senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said that there will be election to the post of the Congress President and anyone can fight the elections.</p>

<p>The statement set the ball for ending the question of non-Gandhi leading the Congress Party. It also blunts the charge of the gang of 23 of Congress being unresponsive to certain organizational issues.</p>

<p>This turn become important for the fact that Ahmed Patel was in fore front of defending Rahul and Sonia Gandhi in Congress Working Committee.</p>

<p>For Ahmad Patel to support this position means that all fences are mended with the Gandhi’s and once again he has emerged as the main trouble shooter for the Gandhi’s.</p>

<p>This will be preceded by the formation of a four-member committee which will assist interim Congress president Sonia Gandhi for next 6 months.</p>

<p>This decision succeeds the Congress Working Committee meeting where split was open between the Gandhi’s and the gang of 23.</p>

<p>When spoke to couple of signatories and all of them were of the issue that CWC failed to discuss the substantial nature of the letter. One of them candidly said that Congress cannot be run like a private fiefdom.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, CWC witnessed consolidation for the Gandhi family. One has to wait and see how member committee will be made and whether detractors would be accommodated in it.</p>

<p>Ahmed Patel in the CWC had pulled up Congress leader Anand Sharma on the letter controversy.</p>

<p>Though old timers like Mukul Wasnik also spoke their mind. They said that if the letter is objectionable and if there is anything anti-Gandhi, then action can be taken against them.</p>

<p>The divide in the Congress is hard reality. The only link between the old and new remains Ahmed Patel.</p>

<p>Only thing one will have to wait and see is as to how the difference between the Gang of 23 and Gandhi’s play out in future with AP in the middle.</p>

<p>WION knows that AP advised the leaders not to shoot of the letter and speak to Mrs. Gandhi in person on organizational issues.</p>


Speaking to WION, senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said that there will be election to the post of the Congress President and anyone can fight the elections. The statement set the ball for ending the question of non-Gandhi leading the Congress Party.

Speaking to WION, senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said that there will be election to the post of the Congress President and anyone can fight the elections. The statement set the ball for ending the question of non-Gandhi leading the Congress Party. It also blunts the charge of the gang of 23 of Congress being unresponsive to certain organizational issues. This turn become important for the fact that Ahmed Patel was in fore front of defending Rahul and Sonia Gandhi in Congress Working Committee. For Ahmad Patel to support this position means that all fences are mended with the Gandhi’s and once again he has emerged as the main trouble shooter for the Gandhi’s. This will be preceded by the formation of a four-member committee which will assist interim Congress president Sonia Gandhi for next 6 months. This decision succeeds the Congress Working Committee meeting where split was open between the Gandhi’s and the gang of 23. When spoke to couple of signatories and all of them were of the issue that CWC failed to discuss the substantial nature of the letter. One of them candidly said that Congress cannot be run like a private fiefdom. Nonetheless, CWC witnessed consolidation for the Gandhi family. One has to wait and see how member committee will be made and whether detractors would be accommodated in it. Ahmed Patel in the CWC had pulled up Congress leader Anand Sharma on the letter controversy. Though old timers like Mukul Wasnik also spoke their mind. They said that if the letter is objectionable and if there is anything anti-Gandhi, then action can be taken against them. The divide in the Congress is hard reality. The only link between the old and new remains Ahmed Patel. Only thing one will have to wait and see is as to how the difference between the Gang of 23 and Gandhi’s play out in future with AP in the middle. WION knows that AP advised the leaders not to shoot of the letter and speak to Mrs. Gandhi in person on organizational issues.

Congress to hold elections for the post of president: Ahmed Patel

<p>Former Punjab Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Rajinder Kaur Bhattal, whose name figured in the list of 23 leaders, who demanded an "active, full-time and visible" party president, said on Monday that their communication should not be seen as dissent, but good suggestions were given in party's interest.</p>

<p>Another signatory to the letter, former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, however, declined to comment on the party's "internal matters".</p>

<p>Bhattal said that Sonia Gandhi had been made interim president of the Congress last year.</p>

<p>That was less than two years after she voluntarily relinquished the top post in favour of her son Rahul Gandhi who refused to continue as Congress chief (after the 2019 general election defeat), the former Punjab CM said.</p>

<p>After her tenure (as interim chief) came to an end on August 10, Congress had said that Sonia Gandhi will continue in the post till such time a "proper procedure" is implemented in the "not too distant future" to elect a party chief.</p>

<p>"She (Sonia Gandhi) had said that she will continue for one year and her tenure was to come to an end on August 10. Rahul ji had earlier said that he does not want to continue as party chief.</p>

<p>"In light of these things, we had given our suggestions (in the letter). Those who have read the full contents of the letter know that we have praised Sonia Gandhi and her leadership," Bhattal told PTI.</p>

<p>She said that despite the tragedies Sonia Gandhi faced on the personal front -- losing her mother-in-law Indira Gandhi and husband Rajiv Gandhi -- "she moved on and effectively guided the Congress and formed government at the Centre twice".</p>

<p>"Soniaji's leadership is acceptable to all, but we had said that a working group be formed under her which will be directly answerable to her. This was our demand, there is nothing wrong, it was not dissent, it was a suggestion letter, we gave good points to make the party strong," said the senior Congress leader.</p>

<p>On the other hand, when asked about the letter during an informal chat, Hooda replied, "I won't make any comment on the party's internal matters." He, however, said the Congress needs to be strengthened.</p>

<p>The Congress Working Committee on Monday urged Sonia Gandhi to continue as its interim chief till an AICC session can be convened and authorised her to effect necessary organisational changes to deal with the challenges facing the party.</p>

<p>At an over seven-hour long meeting, which took place in the backdrop of more than 20 party leaders seeking an immediate organisational overhaul and a collective leadership, Gandhi is said to have offered to quit but was requested by the party's top decision-making panel with over 50 members to stay on.</p>

<p>Bhattal said, "We had suggested that a working group should be formed under her and an AICC session should be summoned. We always accepted Sonia ji's leadership and never were any question marks raised. We have been well-wishers of the Nehru-Gandhi family, which made sacrifices for the nation's sake."</p>

<p>She said that Sonia Gandhi ran things quite smoothly being at the helm.</p>

<p>"But she had herself said last year that she will be there for one year. It is good that she will continue now," Bhattal said.</p>

<p>Bhattal said assembly elections are due in Punjab in over a year, polls in other states are going to take place in coming months and the suggestions they gave was to strength party for the elections also.</p>

<p>Asked why then there has been criticism to their letter, Bhattal replied: "Sometimes, things get misinterpreted in the media. We all want that Congress should be further strengthened. It is a grand old party which first fought for the country's freedom and then ran the country for all these years. To speak for strengthening the party, I think there is nothing wrong in that."&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Former Punjab Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Rajinder Kaur Bhattal, whose name figured in the list of 23 leaders, who demanded an "active, full-time and visible" party president, said on Monday that their communication should not be seen as dissent, but good suggestions were given in party's interest.

Former Punjab Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Rajinder Kaur Bhattal, whose name figured in the list of 23 leaders, who demanded an "active, full-time and visible" party president, said on Monday that their communication should not be seen as dissent, but good suggestions were given in party's interest. Another signatory to the letter, former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, however, declined to comment on the party's "internal matters". Bhattal said that Sonia Gandhi had been made interim president of the Congress last year. That was less than two years after she voluntarily relinquished the top post in favour of her son Rahul Gandhi who refused to continue as Congress chief (after the 2019 general election defeat), the former Punjab CM said. After her tenure (as interim chief) came to an end on August 10, Congress had said that Sonia Gandhi will continue in the post till such time a "proper procedure" is implemented in the "not too distant future" to elect a party chief. "She (Sonia Gandhi) had said that she will continue for one year and her tenure was to come to an end on August 10. Rahul ji had earlier said that he does not want to continue as party chief. "In light of these things, we had given our suggestions (in the letter). Those who have read the full contents of the letter know that we have praised Sonia Gandhi and her leadership," Bhattal told PTI. She said that despite the tragedies Sonia Gandhi faced on the personal front -- losing her mother-in-law Indira Gandhi and husband Rajiv Gandhi -- "she moved on and effectively guided the Congress and formed government at the Centre twice". "Soniaji's leadership is acceptable to all, but we had said that a working group be formed under her which will be directly answerable to her. This was our demand, there is nothing wrong, it was not dissent, it was a suggestion letter, we gave good points to make the party strong," said the senior Congress leader. On the other hand, when asked about the letter during an informal chat, Hooda replied, "I won't make any comment on the party's internal matters." He, however, said the Congress needs to be strengthened. The Congress Working Committee on Monday urged Sonia Gandhi to continue as its interim chief till an AICC session can be convened and authorised her to effect necessary organisational changes to deal with the challenges facing the party. At an over seven-hour long meeting, which took place in the backdrop of more than 20 party leaders seeking an immediate organisational overhaul and a collective leadership, Gandhi is said to have offered to quit but was requested by the party's top decision-making panel with over 50 members to stay on. Bhattal said, "We had suggested that a working group should be formed under her and an AICC session should be summoned. We always accepted Sonia ji's leadership and never were any question marks raised. We have been well-wishers of the Nehru-Gandhi family, which made sacrifices for the nation's sake." She said that Sonia Gandhi ran things quite smoothly being at the helm. "But she had herself said last year that she will be there for one year. It is good that she will continue now," Bhattal said. Bhattal said assembly elections are due in Punjab in over a year, polls in other states are going to take place in coming months and the suggestions they gave was to strength party for the elections also. Asked why then there has been criticism to their letter, Bhattal replied: "Sometimes, things get misinterpreted in the media. We all want that Congress should be further strengthened. It is a grand old party which first fought for the country's freedom and then ran the country for all these years. To speak for strengthening the party, I think there is nothing wrong in that."

Letter not dissent, but good suggestions given in Congress's interests: Former Punjab CM

<p>Echoes of the fiery Monday meeting of the working committee of India's oldest political party Congress -- which is underway -- were heard outside with former minister Kapil Sibal publically questioning Rahul Gandhi's remarks insinuating a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) link to a letter seeking sweeping changes to party organisation.</p>

<p>Sibal is a signatory to the letter which also sought elections to the Congress Working Committee (CWC).</p>

<p>As the CWC meeting was underway on Monday and it was reported that Rahul Gandhi had lashed out at the letter writers, Sibal tweeted, "Rahul says 'we are colluding with BJP'. Succeeded in Rajasthan High Court defending the Congress Party. Defending party in Manipur to bring down BJP government".</p>

<p><img alt="Kapil Sibal's tweet" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="385a5626-ba27-4581-8652-d525c16172cd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/sibal%20tweet.jpg" /></p>

<p>"Last 30 years have never made a statement in favour of BJP on any issue. Yet 'we are colluding with the BJP'!", he tweeted.</p>

<p>Sibal later withdrew his tweet and said the former party chief had informed him personally that he had never made the "colluding with the BJP" remark.</p>

<p>Sibal said a little later that he was withdrawing the tweet, saying, "Was informed by Rahul Gandhi personally that he never said what was attributed to him. I therefore withdraw my tweet."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Was informed by Rahul Gandhi personally that he never said what was attributed to him .<br />
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I therefore withdraw my tweet .</p>
— Kapil Sibal (@KapilSibal) <a href="https://twitter.com/KapilSibal/status/1297810344664895489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Tagging Sibal's earlier tweet, Congress' chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala also tweeted, saying Rahul Gandhi hasn't said a word of this nature nor alluded to it.</p>

<p>"Please don't be misled by false media discourse or misinformation being spread. But yes, we all need to work together in fighting the draconian Modi rule rather than fighting and hurting each other and the Congress," Surjewala said.</p>

<p>Earlier addressing the CWC, Rahul Gandhi said Sonia Gandhi had accepted the party presidentship only after the committee last year urged her to take responsibility.</p>

<p>He took on the leaders who went public with their complaints saying, "it is the CWC where we discuss our differences and put out our thoughts, not the media,".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Congress leader questioned the timing of the letter by a section of the party and attacked them for going public against the leadership, saying differences needed to be discussed in party platforms and not the media.</p>

<p>It was reported that he also insinuated that the letter seeking leadership changes was written in cahoots with the BJP, as it came at a time when Sonia Gandhi was hospitalised and the party was fighting with the BJP in Rajasthan to save its government.</p>

<p>The charge invited sharp rebuttals from former minister Ghulam Nabi Azad at the meeting. Azad said he would resign if any such link with the BJP is established, sources said.</p>

<p>In his brief moving intervention at the CWC, Rahul Gandhi is learnt to have said why that timing was chosen to send the letter when Sonia Gandhi was in hospital and the party was fighting the BJP in Rajasthan, insinuating that such a letter at the time would help the BJP, sources said.</p>

<p>Azad, who is one of the signatories of the letter, read out the contents, saying the leaders are not questioning Sonia Gandhi and only wanted organisational reform in the larger interest of the party.</p>

<p><em><strong>(with inputs from agencies)</strong></em></p>


Echoes of the fiery Monday meeting of the working committee of India's oldest political party Congress -- which is underway -- were heard outside with former minister Kapil Sibal publically questioning Rahul Gandhi's remarks insinuating a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) link to a letter seeking sweeping changes to party organisation.

Echoes of the fiery Monday meeting of the working committee of India's oldest political party Congress -- which is underway -- were heard outside with former minister Kapil Sibal publically questioning Rahul Gandhi's remarks insinuating a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) link to a letter seeking sweeping changes to party organisation. Sibal is a signatory to the letter which also sought elections to the Congress Working Committee (CWC). As the CWC meeting was underway on Monday and it was reported that Rahul Gandhi had lashed out at the letter writers, Sibal tweeted, "Rahul says 'we are colluding with BJP'. Succeeded in Rajasthan High Court defending the Congress Party. Defending party in Manipur to bring down BJP government". "Last 30 years have never made a statement in favour of BJP on any issue. Yet 'we are colluding with the BJP'!", he tweeted. Sibal later withdrew his tweet and said the former party chief had informed him personally that he had never made the "colluding with the BJP" remark. Sibal said a little later that he was withdrawing the tweet, saying, "Was informed by Rahul Gandhi personally that he never said what was attributed to him. I therefore withdraw my tweet." Was informed by Rahul Gandhi personally that he never said what was attributed to him . I therefore withdraw my tweet . — Kapil Sibal (@KapilSibal) August 24, 2020 × Tagging Sibal's earlier tweet, Congress' chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala also tweeted, saying Rahul Gandhi hasn't said a word of this nature nor alluded to it. "Please don't be misled by false media discourse or misinformation being spread. But yes, we all need to work together in fighting the draconian Modi rule rather than fighting and hurting each other and the Congress," Surjewala said. Earlier addressing the CWC, Rahul Gandhi said Sonia Gandhi had accepted the party presidentship only after the committee last year urged her to take responsibility. He took on the leaders who went public with their complaints saying, "it is the CWC where we discuss our differences and put out our thoughts, not the media,". The Congress leader questioned the timing of the letter by a section of the party and attacked them for going public against the leadership, saying differences needed to be discussed in party platforms and not the media. It was reported that he also insinuated that the letter seeking leadership changes was written in cahoots with the BJP, as it came at a time when Sonia Gandhi was hospitalised and the party was fighting with the BJP in Rajasthan to save its government. The charge invited sharp rebuttals from former minister Ghulam Nabi Azad at the meeting. Azad said he would resign if any such link with the BJP is established, sources said. In his brief moving intervention at the CWC, Rahul Gandhi is learnt to have said why that timing was chosen to send the letter when Sonia Gandhi was in hospital and the party was fighting the BJP in Rajasthan, insinuating that such a letter at the time would help the BJP, sources said. Azad, who is one of the signatories of the letter, read out the contents, saying the leaders are not questioning Sonia Gandhi and only wanted organisational reform in the larger interest of the party. (with inputs from agencies)

Kapil Sibal withdraws tweet hitting out at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi

<p>Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday attacked a section of the party during the Congress Working Committee meet&nbsp;for going public against the leadership, and charged that the letter seeking leadership changes was written in cahoots with the BJP.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-leadership-crisis-split-wide-open-322596">Also Read:&nbsp;Also Read - Congress leadership crisis: Split wide open</a></p>

<p>The charge invited sharp rebuttals from former ministers Ghulam Nabi Azad and Kapil Sibal. Azad said he would resign if any such link is established.</p>

<p>In his brief speech at the CWC, Rahul Gandhi also questioned the timing of the letter, which was sent when Sonia Gandhi was hospitalised.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rahul Gandhi says “ we are colluding with BJP “<br />
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Succeeded in Rajasthan High Court defending the Congress Party<br />
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Defending party in Manipur to bring down BJP Govt.<br />
<br />
Last 30 years have never made a statement in favour of BJP on any issue<br />
<br />
Yet “ we are colluding with the BJP “!</p>
— Kapil Sibal (@KapilSibal) <a href="https://twitter.com/KapilSibal/status/1297794831096459265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Azad, who is one of the signatories read out the contents of the letter, saying the leaders are not questioning Sonia Gandhi and only wanted organisational reform in the larger interest of the party.</p>

<p>Echoes of the fiery CWC meeting which is underway, were also heard outside with former minister Kapil Sibal, another signatory to the letter, publicly questioning Rahul's accusations of a BJP link to the letter seeking sweeping changes to party organisation and elections to the CWC.</p>

<p>"Rahul Gandhi says 'we are colluding with BJP'. Succeeded in Rajasthan High Court defending the Congress party. Defending party in Manipur to bring down BJP government. Last 30 years have never made a statement in favour of BJP on any issue. Yet 'we are colluding with the BJP'!," he tweeted.</p>

<p>Earlier addressing the CWC, Rahul Gandhi said Sonia Gandhi had accepted the party presidentship only after the committee last year urged her to take responsibility.</p>

<p>He took on the leaders who went public with their complaints saying, "it is the CWC where we discuss our differences and put out our thoughts, not the media,".</p>

<p>Questioning the timing of Azad's letter, the former Congress chief said the letter was sent when Sonia Gandhi was unwell and was admitted to a hospital and at a time when the Congress was fighting the crisis in Rajasthan.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday attacked a section of the party during the Congress Working Committee meet for going public against the leadership, and charged that the letter seeking leadership changes was written in cahoots with the BJP.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday attacked a section of the party during the Congress Working Committee meet for going public against the leadership, and charged that the letter seeking leadership changes was written in cahoots with the BJP. Also Read: Also Read - Congress leadership crisis: Split wide open The charge invited sharp rebuttals from former ministers Ghulam Nabi Azad and Kapil Sibal. Azad said he would resign if any such link is established. In his brief speech at the CWC, Rahul Gandhi also questioned the timing of the letter, which was sent when Sonia Gandhi was hospitalised. Rahul Gandhi says “ we are colluding with BJP “ Succeeded in Rajasthan High Court defending the Congress Party Defending party in Manipur to bring down BJP Govt. Last 30 years have never made a statement in favour of BJP on any issue Yet “ we are colluding with the BJP “! — Kapil Sibal (@KapilSibal) August 24, 2020 × Azad, who is one of the signatories read out the contents of the letter, saying the leaders are not questioning Sonia Gandhi and only wanted organisational reform in the larger interest of the party. Echoes of the fiery CWC meeting which is underway, were also heard outside with former minister Kapil Sibal, another signatory to the letter, publicly questioning Rahul's accusations of a BJP link to the letter seeking sweeping changes to party organisation and elections to the CWC. "Rahul Gandhi says 'we are colluding with BJP'. Succeeded in Rajasthan High Court defending the Congress party. Defending party in Manipur to bring down BJP government. Last 30 years have never made a statement in favour of BJP on any issue. Yet 'we are colluding with the BJP'!," he tweeted. Earlier addressing the CWC, Rahul Gandhi said Sonia Gandhi had accepted the party presidentship only after the committee last year urged her to take responsibility. He took on the leaders who went public with their complaints saying, "it is the CWC where we discuss our differences and put out our thoughts, not the media,". Questioning the timing of Azad's letter, the former Congress chief said the letter was sent when Sonia Gandhi was unwell and was admitted to a hospital and at a time when the Congress was fighting the crisis in Rajasthan.

Rahul questions timing of letter to Sonia; alleges written in cahoots with BJP

<p>Congress chief Sonia Gandhi during at Congress Working Committee(CWC)&nbsp;meeting today asked the party committee to relieve her as interim party chief even as former prime minister Manmohan Singh urged her to continue, sources said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rahul Gandhi says “ we are colluding with BJP “<br />
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Succeeded in Rajasthan High Court defending the Congress Party<br />
<br />
Defending party in Manipur to bring down BJP Govt.<br />
<br />
Last 30 years have never made a statement in favour of BJP on any issue<br />
<br />
Yet “ we are colluding with the BJP “!</p>
— Kapil Sibal (@KapilSibal) <a href="https://twitter.com/KapilSibal/status/1297794831096459265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Sonia Gandhi referred to a letter by Ghulam Nabi Azad and others while offering to quit, sources said. Sonia Gandhi handed over the letter to KC Venugopal while replying to the note sent by dissidents. The contents of the letter were read out at the party meeting. Sonia Gandhi asked the party leaders to start the process to select a new party chief.</p>

<p>Rahul Gandhi criticised the letter by some leaders and questioned its timing. After Rahul Gandhi's remarks, Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said he will the quit party if found of colluding with the BJP, the sources added.</p>

<p>"Rahul Gandhi says we are colluding with BJP, I have never made a statement in favour of BJP in last 30 years," Congress leader Kapil Sibal said.&nbsp;</p>


Congress chief Sonia Gandhi during at Congress Working Committee(CWC) meeting today asked the party committee to relieve her as interim party chief even as former prime minister Manmohan Singh urged her to continue, sources said.

Congress chief Sonia Gandhi during at Congress Working Committee(CWC) meeting today asked the party committee to relieve her as interim party chief even as former prime minister Manmohan Singh urged her to continue, sources said. Rahul Gandhi says “ we are colluding with BJP “ Succeeded in Rajasthan High Court defending the Congress Party Defending party in Manipur to bring down BJP Govt. Last 30 years have never made a statement in favour of BJP on any issue Yet “ we are colluding with the BJP “! — Kapil Sibal (@KapilSibal) August 24, 2020 × Sonia Gandhi referred to a letter by Ghulam Nabi Azad and others while offering to quit, sources said. Sonia Gandhi handed over the letter to KC Venugopal while replying to the note sent by dissidents. The contents of the letter were read out at the party meeting. Sonia Gandhi asked the party leaders to start the process to select a new party chief. Rahul Gandhi criticised the letter by some leaders and questioned its timing. After Rahul Gandhi's remarks, Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said he will the quit party if found of colluding with the BJP, the sources added. "Rahul Gandhi says we are colluding with BJP, I have never made a statement in favour of BJP in last 30 years," Congress leader Kapil Sibal said.

Rahul Gandhi says we are colluding with BJP, never made a statement in favour of BJP: Kapil Sibal at CWC meeting

<p>The Indian National Congress instead of reinventing itself after its second successive defeat in Lok Sabha election continues to hop from one crisis to another.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Sunday, interim Congress President Sonia Gandhi offered her resignation to the party so that a new president can be elected.</p>

<p>Sources inside the Congress party confirmed the letter was indeed written to Sonia Gandhi and she too had responded to the letter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the very letter, she had suggested that all issues will be discussed within the party forum and the new leader can be elected if everyone is of the opinion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the reports, Sonia Gandhi is not going to continue as Congress President indefinitely. Regardless of pressure on her from party faithfuls to continue, she will only grace the office until a new president is elected. This period, undoubtedly, is going to be very short.</p>

<p>Sources said that it is for the discussion of the grievances Sonia Gandhi had called for a Congress Working Committee meeting on August 24. It is the leak of Sonia Gandhi’s response which has upset Gandhi family.</p>

<p>This comes in the wake three dozen-odd leaders writing to Sonia Gandhi asking her to commence reforms in the Congress. A set of senior leaders is upset at the fact that decisions in the Congress party are being taken without consultations and Rahul Gandhi continues to run the party through the office of KC Venugopal who happens to be the General Secretary Organisation.</p>

<p>The leaders who shot off a letter to Sonia wants the immediate election to the Congress Working Committee but with Sonia Gandhi putting her papers, it will put them on backfoot. Sonia Gandhi as the Congress President in this period had closely aligned the party with ideas of Rahul Gandhi. Whether it personal and upfront attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on political and security issues to getting KC Venugopal and Rajiv Satav a seat in Rajya Sabha, Sonia Gandhi has supported decisions of Rahul Gandhi. This is being resented by a large majority of leaders that Rahul Gandhi instead of taking everyone along has chosen a set of people to run the party without consultation.</p>

<p>Gandhi camp, on the other hand, feel that letter is a ruse for bargaining for positions within the party. It is suspected that discussion may start from functioning from at the top but concrete compromise may each on important positions like General Secretary Organisation or head of the media department.</p>

<p>Gandhi camp also feels that the crisis is created and not natural. The Opposite camp feels that the party is not been run properly and requires greater participation from all sides rather than being run by a few people. Though sources feel that Sonia’s gesture to put in her paper would be immediately rejected by the seniors in the group who feel that in her absence Rahul’s takeover would become imminent.</p>


The Indian National Congress instead of reinventing itself after its second successive defeat in Lok Sabha election continues to hop from one crisis to another. On Sunday, interim Congress President Sonia Gandhi offered her resignation to the party so that a new president can be elected.

The Indian National Congress instead of reinventing itself after its second successive defeat in Lok Sabha election continues to hop from one crisis to another. On Sunday, interim Congress President Sonia Gandhi offered her resignation to the party so that a new president can be elected. Sources inside the Congress party confirmed the letter was indeed written to Sonia Gandhi and she too had responded to the letter. In the very letter, she had suggested that all issues will be discussed within the party forum and the new leader can be elected if everyone is of the opinion. According to the reports, Sonia Gandhi is not going to continue as Congress President indefinitely. Regardless of pressure on her from party faithfuls to continue, she will only grace the office until a new president is elected. This period, undoubtedly, is going to be very short. Sources said that it is for the discussion of the grievances Sonia Gandhi had called for a Congress Working Committee meeting on August 24. It is the leak of Sonia Gandhi’s response which has upset Gandhi family. This comes in the wake three dozen-odd leaders writing to Sonia Gandhi asking her to commence reforms in the Congress. A set of senior leaders is upset at the fact that decisions in the Congress party are being taken without consultations and Rahul Gandhi continues to run the party through the office of KC Venugopal who happens to be the General Secretary Organisation. The leaders who shot off a letter to Sonia wants the immediate election to the Congress Working Committee but with Sonia Gandhi putting her papers, it will put them on backfoot. Sonia Gandhi as the Congress President in this period had closely aligned the party with ideas of Rahul Gandhi. Whether it personal and upfront attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on political and security issues to getting KC Venugopal and Rajiv Satav a seat in Rajya Sabha, Sonia Gandhi has supported decisions of Rahul Gandhi. This is being resented by a large majority of leaders that Rahul Gandhi instead of taking everyone along has chosen a set of people to run the party without consultation. Gandhi camp, on the other hand, feel that letter is a ruse for bargaining for positions within the party. It is suspected that discussion may start from functioning from at the top but concrete compromise may each on important positions like General Secretary Organisation or head of the media department. Gandhi camp also feels that the crisis is created and not natural. The Opposite camp feels that the party is not been run properly and requires greater participation from all sides rather than being run by a few people. Though sources feel that Sonia’s gesture to put in her paper would be immediately rejected by the seniors in the group who feel that in her absence Rahul’s takeover would become imminent.

Congress leadership crisis: Split wide open

<p>An Indian parliamentary committee will question Facebook executives on how the social media giant regulates political content in the country, a panel member told Reuters on Friday, following controversy about its practices.</p>

<p>Facebook and its top lobbying executive in India, Ankhi Das, are facing criticism after a news report said she opposed applying hate-speech rules to a politician from India’s ruling party.</p>

<p>Facebook has been summoned to appear on Sept. 2 before the information technology panel, which considers issues like social media abuse. The discussion with Facebook will last for 30 minutes, according to a notice published late on Thursday.</p>

<p>“The subject is serious because of Facebook’s extensive reach in India ... and the potential for hate speech to incite violence and other unlawful behaviour,” said the panel member, who declined to be identified.</p>

<p>“How worrying this is, is to be determined after a hearing process is concluded.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/facebook-director-receives-death-threats-for-favouring-bjp-321138"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Facebook Director receives death threats for 'favouring' BJP</strong></a></p>

<p>Facebook - which has more than 300 million users in India, its biggest market - did not respond to a request for comment.</p>

<p>Facebook has long faced criticism for high-profile content moderation issues.</p>

<p>The Wall Street Journal reported recently that Das told staff that applying hate-speech rules to politicians close to India’s ruling party “would damage the company’s business prospects in the country”.</p>

<p>Facebook has been battling political fallout in India since.</p>

<p>The opposition Congress Party criticised Facebook for its policies, while some ruling-party lawmakers have accused it of censoring nationalist voices.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-says-its-fielding-questions-by-us-regulators-322034"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Facebook says it's fielding questions by US regulators</strong></a></p>

<p>Separately, Reuters this week reported that some Facebook employees in the United States and beyond have raised questions in internal forums about whether adequate content regulation practices are being followed by the India team and demanded some changes.</p>

<p>Facebook’s soon-to-be-operational content Oversight Board, which some have dubbed the company’s “Supreme Court”, said it was committed to protecting users.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“How Facebook treats posts from public figures that may violate the Community Standards are within the scope of the Board,” the board told Reuters in a statement.</p>

<p>“We won’t shy away from the tough cases and holding Facebook accountable,” said the board, which has powers to overturn decisions by the company and Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg on whether individual pieces of content should be allowed or not.</p>


An Indian parliamentary committee will question Facebook executives on how the social media giant regulates political content in the country, a panel member told Reuters on Friday, following controversy about its practices.

An Indian parliamentary committee will question Facebook executives on how the social media giant regulates political content in the country, a panel member told Reuters on Friday, following controversy about its practices. Facebook and its top lobbying executive in India, Ankhi Das, are facing criticism after a news report said she opposed applying hate-speech rules to a politician from India’s ruling party. Facebook has been summoned to appear on Sept. 2 before the information technology panel, which considers issues like social media abuse. The discussion with Facebook will last for 30 minutes, according to a notice published late on Thursday. “The subject is serious because of Facebook’s extensive reach in India ... and the potential for hate speech to incite violence and other unlawful behaviour,” said the panel member, who declined to be identified. “How worrying this is, is to be determined after a hearing process is concluded.” Also read: Facebook Director receives death threats for 'favouring' BJP Facebook - which has more than 300 million users in India, its biggest market - did not respond to a request for comment. Facebook has long faced criticism for high-profile content moderation issues. The Wall Street Journal reported recently that Das told staff that applying hate-speech rules to politicians close to India’s ruling party “would damage the company’s business prospects in the country”. Facebook has been battling political fallout in India since. The opposition Congress Party criticised Facebook for its policies, while some ruling-party lawmakers have accused it of censoring nationalist voices. Also read: Facebook says it's fielding questions by US regulators Separately, Reuters this week reported that some Facebook employees in the United States and beyond have raised questions in internal forums about whether adequate content regulation practices are being followed by the India team and demanded some changes. Facebook’s soon-to-be-operational content Oversight Board, which some have dubbed the company’s “Supreme Court”, said it was committed to protecting users. “How Facebook treats posts from public figures that may violate the Community Standards are within the scope of the Board,” the board told Reuters in a statement. “We won’t shy away from the tough cases and holding Facebook accountable,” said the board, which has powers to overturn decisions by the company and Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg on whether individual pieces of content should be allowed or not.

India parliamentary panel to question Facebook on content controversy: Source

<p>On the occasion of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's 76th birth anniversary, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday paid tribute to his father at Veer Bhumi here.</p>

<p>He offered rose petals and prayers at his father's memorial.</p>

<p>In a tweet earlier today, Rahul said, "Rajiv Gandhi was a man with a tremendous vision, far ahead of his times. But above all else, he was a compassionate and loving human being."</p>

<p>He further said that he was "incredibly lucky and proud" to have the former Prime Minister as his father.</p>

<p>"I am incredibly lucky and proud to have him as my father. We miss him today and every day," read the tweet.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rajiv Gandhi was a man with a tremendous vision, far ahead of his times. But above all else, he was a compassionate and loving human being.<br />
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I am incredibly lucky and proud to have him as my father.<br />
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We miss him today and everyday. <a href="https://t.co/jWUUZQklTi">pic.twitter.com/jWUUZQklTi</a></p>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1296265574759055360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>To mark the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier today paid tributes to the former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his 76th birth anniversary.</p>

<p>"On his birth anniversary, tributes to former Prime Minister Shri Rajiv Gandhi Ji," read PM Modi's tweet.</p>

<p>Rajiv Gandhi took over the charge of the Congress in 1984 following the assassination of his mother and then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. He became India's youngest Prime Minister at the age of 40.</p>

<p>Born on August 20 in 1944, he was assassinated by a Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) suicide bomber during an election rally in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu on May 21, 1991.</p>


On the occasion of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's 76th birth anniversary, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday paid tribute to his father at Veer Bhumi here.

On the occasion of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's 76th birth anniversary, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday paid tribute to his father at Veer Bhumi here. He offered rose petals and prayers at his father's memorial. In a tweet earlier today, Rahul said, "Rajiv Gandhi was a man with a tremendous vision, far ahead of his times. But above all else, he was a compassionate and loving human being." He further said that he was "incredibly lucky and proud" to have the former Prime Minister as his father. "I am incredibly lucky and proud to have him as my father. We miss him today and every day," read the tweet. Rajiv Gandhi was a man with a tremendous vision, far ahead of his times. But above all else, he was a compassionate and loving human being. I am incredibly lucky and proud to have him as my father. We miss him today and everyday. pic.twitter.com/jWUUZQklTi — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 20, 2020 × To mark the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier today paid tributes to the former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his 76th birth anniversary. "On his birth anniversary, tributes to former Prime Minister Shri Rajiv Gandhi Ji," read PM Modi's tweet. Rajiv Gandhi took over the charge of the Congress in 1984 following the assassination of his mother and then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. He became India's youngest Prime Minister at the age of 40. Born on August 20 in 1944, he was assassinated by a Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) suicide bomber during an election rally in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu on May 21, 1991.

Rahul Gandhi pays tribute to father, former PM Rajiv Gandhi on his birth anniversary

<p>Congress has finally agreed to constitute a three-member committee to address the grievances raised by rebel leader Sachin Pilot.</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, Pilot met senior party leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi on Monday, the first time since the political crisis in Rajasthan began.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/sachin-pilots-aspirations-are-clear-how-he-may-achieve-them-is-not-317323">Sachin Pilot's aspirations are clear, how he may achieve them is not</a></strong></p>

<p>"Sachin Pilot met with ex-Congress President Rahul Gandhi &amp; expressed his grievances in detail. They had a frank, open &amp; conclusive discussion. Sachin Pilot has committed to working in interest of Congress party &amp; Congress govt in Rajasthan, said KC Venugopal, General Secretary, All India Congress Committee (AICC), reported news agency ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dynasts-in-democracy-the-rise-and-surprise-of-sachin-pilot-316376">Dynasts in democracy: The rise and surprise of Sachin Pilot</a></strong></p>

<p>"Following this meeting, Congress President Sonia Gandhi has decided that the AICC will constitute a three-member committee to address the issues raised by Sachin Pilot &amp; the aggrieved MLA and arrive at an appropriate resolution thereof."</p>

<p>Earlier, sources close to Pilot said that the meeting lasted for nearly two hours and the Pilot camp was assured that all their concerns will be settled, said news agency PTI.</p>

<p>Other sources also said that the rebel leader is in touch with top leadership and formula is being worked upon for Pilot's return.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The political crisis in Rajasthan began after Pilot and 18 other MLAs rebelled against the Ashok Gehlot-led Congress government, which led to Pilot's removal as deputy chief minister and state party head. &nbsp;</p>


Congress has finally agreed to constitute a three-member committee to address the grievances raised by rebel leader Sachin Pilot. Earlier in the day, Pilot met senior party leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi on Monday, the first time since the political crisis in Rajasthan began.

Congress has finally agreed to constitute a three-member committee to address the grievances raised by rebel leader Sachin Pilot. Earlier in the day, Pilot met senior party leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi on Monday, the first time since the political crisis in Rajasthan began. Also read | Sachin Pilot's aspirations are clear, how he may achieve them is not "Sachin Pilot met with ex-Congress President Rahul Gandhi & expressed his grievances in detail. They had a frank, open & conclusive discussion. Sachin Pilot has committed to working in interest of Congress party & Congress govt in Rajasthan, said KC Venugopal, General Secretary, All India Congress Committee (AICC), reported news agency ANI. Also read | Dynasts in democracy: The rise and surprise of Sachin Pilot "Following this meeting, Congress President Sonia Gandhi has decided that the AICC will constitute a three-member committee to address the issues raised by Sachin Pilot & the aggrieved MLA and arrive at an appropriate resolution thereof." Earlier, sources close to Pilot said that the meeting lasted for nearly two hours and the Pilot camp was assured that all their concerns will be settled, said news agency PTI. Other sources also said that the rebel leader is in touch with top leadership and formula is being worked upon for Pilot's return. The political crisis in Rajasthan began after Pilot and 18 other MLAs rebelled against the Ashok Gehlot-led Congress government, which led to Pilot's removal as deputy chief minister and state party head.

Congress forms three-member committee to address Sachin Pilot's grievances

<p>The Congress on Monday staged protests outside Raj Bhawans across the country against what it called the BJP's attempts to topple state governments led by opposition parties.</p>

<p>Congress general secretary K C Venugopal alleged the BJP was using "money power and intimidation" in its bid to topple governments in states.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajashtan-governor-says-may-call-an-assembly-session-at-short-notice-316353">Rajashtan Governor says may call an assembly session at short notice</a></strong></p>

<p>The protests came amidst a power tussle in Rajasthan where the Ashok Gehlot-led Congress dispensation in facing a crisis after a rebellion by the now sacked deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot and 18 other MLAs.</p>

<p>The Congress has accused the BJP of being behind the rebellion. The BJP has denied the allegation and said the crisis in Rajasthan was an outcome of infighting within the Congress.</p>

<p>The protesters demanded that the Rajasthan Governor convenes a session of the Assembly as advised by the state cabinet, it said.</p>

<p>However, there was no protest outside the Raj Bhawan in Rajasthan.</p>

<p>Venugopal said Monday's protests were aimed at underlining the BJP's "subversion" of the Constitution and "murder" of democracy, especially at a time when the entire country is reeling under the onslaught of COVID-19 pandemic and unprecedented difficulties caused by an economic meltdown.</p>

<p>"Unfortunate as it would have been at any other time, it was downright dastardly for the BJP to be going all out to unsettle democratically elected governments during such times," he said in a statement.</p>

<p>He said party leaders and workers assembled in several state headquarters and marched to the Raj Bhawans to lodge their protest.</p>

<p>Many sat on a dharna outside Raj Bhawans observing social distancing norms, he said, adding the protesting leaders spoke against the conduct of the Governor of Rajasthan.</p>

<p>Social media handles of state Congress chiefs and leaders put up videos of such protests.</p>

<p>Protests were held in front of the Raj Bhawans in Lucknow, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Ranchi, Guwahati, Simla, Panchkula and many other state capitals.</p>

<p>State Congress presidents, along with party workers, were arrested in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat and many other places during the protests, Venugopal claimed in the statement.</p>

<p>Today's protests followed the "Speak Up For Democracy" digital campaign launched by the Congress on Sunday.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Congress on Monday staged protests outside Raj Bhawans across the country against what it called the BJP's attempts to topple state governments led by opposition parties.

The Congress on Monday staged protests outside Raj Bhawans across the country against what it called the BJP's attempts to topple state governments led by opposition parties. Congress general secretary K C Venugopal alleged the BJP was using "money power and intimidation" in its bid to topple governments in states. Also read | Rajashtan Governor says may call an assembly session at short notice The protests came amidst a power tussle in Rajasthan where the Ashok Gehlot-led Congress dispensation in facing a crisis after a rebellion by the now sacked deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot and 18 other MLAs. The Congress has accused the BJP of being behind the rebellion. The BJP has denied the allegation and said the crisis in Rajasthan was an outcome of infighting within the Congress. The protesters demanded that the Rajasthan Governor convenes a session of the Assembly as advised by the state cabinet, it said. However, there was no protest outside the Raj Bhawan in Rajasthan. Venugopal said Monday's protests were aimed at underlining the BJP's "subversion" of the Constitution and "murder" of democracy, especially at a time when the entire country is reeling under the onslaught of COVID-19 pandemic and unprecedented difficulties caused by an economic meltdown. "Unfortunate as it would have been at any other time, it was downright dastardly for the BJP to be going all out to unsettle democratically elected governments during such times," he said in a statement. He said party leaders and workers assembled in several state headquarters and marched to the Raj Bhawans to lodge their protest. Many sat on a dharna outside Raj Bhawans observing social distancing norms, he said, adding the protesting leaders spoke against the conduct of the Governor of Rajasthan. Social media handles of state Congress chiefs and leaders put up videos of such protests. Protests were held in front of the Raj Bhawans in Lucknow, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Ranchi, Guwahati, Simla, Panchkula and many other state capitals. State Congress presidents, along with party workers, were arrested in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat and many other places during the protests, Venugopal claimed in the statement. Today's protests followed the "Speak Up For Democracy" digital campaign launched by the Congress on Sunday.

Maintaining social distance, Congress stages protests against BJP

<p>Blaming the Indian media for spreading false, hate-filled news, senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday said he will be sharing his own thoughts through a video from tomorrow for those "interested in truth".</p>

<p>"I want to make our current affairs, history and crisis clear and accessible for those interested in the truth," Gandhi said in a tweet.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajasthan-political-crisis-congress-continues-to-woo-pilot-as-turbulence-rises-313107">Rajasthan political crisis: Congress continues to woo Pilot as turbulence rises</a></strong></p>

<p>"From tomorrow, I'll be sharing my thoughts with you on video."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I want to make our current affairs, history and crisis clear and accessible for those interested in the truth.<br />
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From tomorrow, I’ll be sharing my thoughts with you on video.</p>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1282664032307040256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>After his announcements, many started seeing this as Gandhi's 'Mann Ki Baat'.</p>

<p>Mann Ki Baat was started by Prime Minister Narendra Modi when he was first elected in 2014. It is broadcast once in a month, generally on last Sunday, where the prime minister talks&nbsp;about his thoughts on a lot of issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In recent times too, Gandhi was seen interacting with economist Raghuram Rajan and Rajiv Bajaj, which attempted to talk about the effects of coronavirus lockdown in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In another tweet, Gandhi lashed out at Indian media, saying they are "captured by fascist interests".&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Today a large part of the Indian news media has been captured by fascist interests. A hate filled narrative is being spread by television channels, whatsapp forwards and false news. This narrative of lies is tearing India apart.</p>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1282663996043083782?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>He said a hate-filled narrative is being spread through TV channels, Whatsapp and false news.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This narrative of lies is tearing India apart," Gandhi tweeted. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Gandhi's comments came at a time when his party is struggling to hold power in the northwestern Indian state of Rajasthan with growing differences between the deputy chief minister and chief minister.&nbsp;</p>


Blaming the Indian media for spreading false, hate-filled news, senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday said he will be sharing his own thoughts through a video from tomorrow for those "interested in truth".

Blaming the Indian media for spreading false, hate-filled news, senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday said he will be sharing his own thoughts through a video from tomorrow for those "interested in truth". "I want to make our current affairs, history and crisis clear and accessible for those interested in the truth," Gandhi said in a tweet. Also read | Rajasthan political crisis: Congress continues to woo Pilot as turbulence rises "From tomorrow, I'll be sharing my thoughts with you on video." I want to make our current affairs, history and crisis clear and accessible for those interested in the truth. From tomorrow, I’ll be sharing my thoughts with you on video. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 13, 2020 × After his announcements, many started seeing this as Gandhi's 'Mann Ki Baat'. Mann Ki Baat was started by Prime Minister Narendra Modi when he was first elected in 2014. It is broadcast once in a month, generally on last Sunday, where the prime minister talks about his thoughts on a lot of issues. In recent times too, Gandhi was seen interacting with economist Raghuram Rajan and Rajiv Bajaj, which attempted to talk about the effects of coronavirus lockdown in the country. In another tweet, Gandhi lashed out at Indian media, saying they are "captured by fascist interests". Today a large part of the Indian news media has been captured by fascist interests. A hate filled narrative is being spread by television channels, whatsapp forwards and false news. This narrative of lies is tearing India apart. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 13, 2020 × He said a hate-filled narrative is being spread through TV channels, Whatsapp and false news. "This narrative of lies is tearing India apart," Gandhi tweeted. Gandhi's comments came at a time when his party is struggling to hold power in the northwestern Indian state of Rajasthan with growing differences between the deputy chief minister and chief minister.

Amid Congress' woes in Rajasthan, Rahul Gandhi all set for his 'Mann Ki Baat'

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