BJP president Amit Shah stumbled and fell while alighting from a vehicle after his roadshow here in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh Saturday.

One of his bodyguards quickly offered support and Shah managed to get up unhurt immediately. The incident happened at the Tulsi Park.

Later, addressing a public meeting in Shivpuri district, Shah continued to fire salvos at the Congress like his previous election meetings and said the chief of the opposition party, Rahul Gandhi, was daydreaming about winning the November 28 Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls.

The state is being ruled by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) since 2003 with Shivraj Singh Chouhan occupying the chief minister's post since 2005.

"While waiting to board a flight at an airport, I saw Rahul baba on a TV channel, claiming that his party was going to come to power in Madhya Pradesh," Shah told the gathering.

"Rahul baba is dreaming in the day that his party is going to form the government in Madhya Pradesh," he said in a retort to Gandhi's claim made during campaigning that the Congress would form governments in all five states -- Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Telangana and Mizoram -- that are up for polls.

The election results for all these states will be declared on December 11. 
Shah further ridiculed Gandhi by saying that dreaming was not bad, but one should not build castles in the air, that too during the day.

"After 2014 (when the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance took over at the Centre), people have no room for the Congress and it has been wiped out from (most) states. Even with binoculars, its (Congress) traces are hardly seen anywhere," he said.

The BJP chief also took a dig at the opposition party for not declaring its chief ministerial face in Madhya Pradesh.

"Rahul Gandhi, who is your leader in Madhya Pradesh? Is it raja (Digvijay Singh), maharaja (Jyotiraditya Scindia) or a worn-out industrialist (Kamal Nath)?," he asked.

While Scindia is the Congress's campaign committee chief in the state, Nath heads the party's Madhya Pradesh unit and Singh was the chief minister of the state from 1993 to 2003.&nbsp;

BJP president Amit Shah stumbled and fell while alighting from a vehicle after his roadshow here in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh Saturday. One of his bodyguards quickly offered support and Shah managed to get up unhurt immediately.

BJP president Amit Shah stumbled and fell while alighting from a vehicle after his roadshow here in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh Saturday. One of his bodyguards quickly offered support and Shah managed to get up unhurt immediately. The incident happened at the Tulsi Park. Later, addressing a public meeting in Shivpuri district, Shah continued to fire salvos at the Congress like his previous election meetings and said the chief of the opposition party, Rahul Gandhi, was daydreaming about winning the November 28 Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls. The state is being ruled by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) since 2003 with Shivraj Singh Chouhan occupying the chief minister's post since 2005. "While waiting to board a flight at an airport, I saw Rahul baba on a TV channel, claiming that his party was going to come to power in Madhya Pradesh," Shah told the gathering. "Rahul baba is dreaming in the day that his party is going to form the government in Madhya Pradesh," he said in a retort to Gandhi's claim made during campaigning that the Congress would form governments in all five states -- Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Telangana and Mizoram -- that are up for polls. The election results for all these states will be declared on December 11. Shah further ridiculed Gandhi by saying that dreaming was not bad, but one should not build castles in the air, that too during the day. "After 2014 (when the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance took over at the Centre), people have no room for the Congress and it has been wiped out from (most) states. Even with binoculars, its (Congress) traces are hardly seen anywhere," he said. The BJP chief also took a dig at the opposition party for not declaring its chief ministerial face in Madhya Pradesh. "Rahul Gandhi, who is your leader in Madhya Pradesh? Is it raja (Digvijay Singh), maharaja (Jyotiraditya Scindia) or a worn-out industrialist (Kamal Nath)?," he asked. While Scindia is the Congress's campaign committee chief in the state, Nath heads the party's Madhya Pradesh unit and Singh was the chief minister of the state from 1993 to 2003.

Madhya Pradesh polls: BJP chief Amit Shah unhurt after fall during roadshow

Western Rajasthan's Pokhran assembly constituency is set for a close fight on December 7 between a Hindu religious leader fielded by the BJP and son of Muslim 'peer' pitted against him by the Congress.

The BJP candidate, Pratap Puri, is the head of the Taratara 'math'. The Congress' Shale Mohammad is the son of Muslim religious leader Gazi Fakir, who has a large number of followers both within India and across the border in Pakistan.

Both Puri and Fakir hold considerable sway among their communities, making the Pokhran constituency in Jaisalmer district one of the state's most hotly contested seats.

Uttar Pradesh chief minister and senior BJP leader Yogi Adityanath and Congress President Rahul Gandhi will address rallies in support of Puri and Mohammad, respectively, on Monday, setting the tone for the rest of the campaign in the region better known for the nuclear tests in 1998.

Puri expressed confidence that the BJP will win the Pokhran seat and blamed the Congress for making the contest "communal" by fielding a Muslim candidate against him.

Protection of Hindus and cows has always been an important issue, he said.

"Hindutva is in my veins and the party is going to win the election which has been made communal by the Congress by fielding a Muslim candidate against me," the BJP candidate told PTI.

Religious leaders should be in politics for its purification, Puri (51), who hails from the influential Rajput community, said.

"The people are with the BJP because they have faith in the party's policies and in leaders like Narendra Modi," he said.

His Barmer-based 'math', which holds considerable influence in the entire Jodhpur division, is pulling out all stops to win over the electorate, conducting social and religious activities.

"We hold drug de-addiction camps, provide education to poor children and work for cow conservation, besides conducting several other social activities," Puri said.

The Congress candidate, Mohammad, said his focus was core issues like drinking water and other basic amenities for people in Pokhran, which has a total electorate of 1.94 lakh.

"People here face difficulties in getting drinking water and fodder for cattle. The constituency lacks healthcare facilities and I am focusing on that," he said.

Mohammad (41) had lost the 2013 assembly elections from the same seat to BJP's Shaitan Singh with a margin of 34,444 votes.

Mohammad's father, an octogenarian, boasts of a strong following in the Sindhi Muslim community and has several criminal cases against him.

There are an estimated 55,000 Muslim voters, 45,000-48,000 and Rajput voters in Pokhran. It also has around 35,000 Dalit voters, according to the candidates.

Pokhran is one of the two assembly constituencies of the desert district of Jaisalmer.

The second constituency, Jaisalmer, will also see a direct contest between BJP candidate Sang Singh Bhati and Congress' Roopa Ram.

The BJP chose Sang Singh Bhati over its sitting MLA Chotu Singh Bhati, while the Congress has fielded Ram for the second time after 2013.

A total of 11 and 18 candidates are in the fray in Pokhran and Jaisalmer respectively.

Western Rajasthan's Pokhran assembly constituency is set for a close fight on December 7 between a Hindu religious leader fielded by the BJP and son of Muslim 'peer' pitted against him by the Congress.

Western Rajasthan's Pokhran assembly constituency is set for a close fight on December 7 between a Hindu religious leader fielded by the BJP and son of Muslim 'peer' pitted against him by the Congress. The BJP candidate, Pratap Puri, is the head of the Taratara 'math'. The Congress' Shale Mohammad is the son of Muslim religious leader Gazi Fakir, who has a large number of followers both within India and across the border in Pakistan. Both Puri and Fakir hold considerable sway among their communities, making the Pokhran constituency in Jaisalmer district one of the state's most hotly contested seats. Uttar Pradesh chief minister and senior BJP leader Yogi Adityanath and Congress President Rahul Gandhi will address rallies in support of Puri and Mohammad, respectively, on Monday, setting the tone for the rest of the campaign in the region better known for the nuclear tests in 1998. Puri expressed confidence that the BJP will win the Pokhran seat and blamed the Congress for making the contest "communal" by fielding a Muslim candidate against him. Protection of Hindus and cows has always been an important issue, he said. "Hindutva is in my veins and the party is going to win the election which has been made communal by the Congress by fielding a Muslim candidate against me," the BJP candidate told PTI. Religious leaders should be in politics for its purification, Puri (51), who hails from the influential Rajput community, said. "The people are with the BJP because they have faith in the party's policies and in leaders like Narendra Modi," he said. His Barmer-based 'math', which holds considerable influence in the entire Jodhpur division, is pulling out all stops to win over the electorate, conducting social and religious activities. "We hold drug de-addiction camps, provide education to poor children and work for cow conservation, besides conducting several other social activities," Puri said. The Congress candidate, Mohammad, said his focus was core issues like drinking water and other basic amenities for people in Pokhran, which has a total electorate of 1.94 lakh. "People here face difficulties in getting drinking water and fodder for cattle. The constituency lacks healthcare facilities and I am focusing on that," he said. Mohammad (41) had lost the 2013 assembly elections from the same seat to BJP's Shaitan Singh with a margin of 34,444 votes. Mohammad's father, an octogenarian, boasts of a strong following in the Sindhi Muslim community and has several criminal cases against him. There are an estimated 55,000 Muslim voters, 45,000-48,000 and Rajput voters in Pokhran. It also has around 35,000 Dalit voters, according to the candidates. Pokhran is one of the two assembly constituencies of the desert district of Jaisalmer. The second constituency, Jaisalmer, will also see a direct contest between BJP candidate Sang Singh Bhati and Congress' Roopa Ram. The BJP chose Sang Singh Bhati over its sitting MLA Chotu Singh Bhati, while the Congress has fielded Ram for the second time after 2013. A total of 11 and 18 candidates are in the fray in Pokhran and Jaisalmer respectively.

Rajasthan polls: Religion big factor in Pokhran

Upping his ante against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with regards to the controversial Rafale fighter jets deal, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday said that even though Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)-made aircraft were used effectively by the Indian Air Force (IAF) to drop bombs during the 1999 Kargil War, the government did not find it competent enough to be part of the Rafale deal.

"During the Kargil War, HAL aircraft dropped bombs on the Pakistan Army. HAL knows how to make aircraft. The talks were confirmed. HAL discussed with France`s Dassault to buy one aircraft for Rs 526 crore. After that, `Chowkidar` became the Prime Minister. Soon after that, Prime Minister Modi visited France along with Anil Ambani. What happens next is that the Rs 526 crore aircraft now gets sold for Rs 1,600 crore. HAL is sidelined and Anil Ambani is made the offset partner. Anil Ambani never made an aircraft. HAL has been making aircraft for the last 70 years," Rahul said while addressing a rally in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh.

The IAF had used MiG-21, MiG-23, MiG-27, MiG-29, Jaguar and Mirage-2000 aircraft during the Kargil War. The aircraft were assembled by HAL under license production from the manufacturers.

Elaborating on the need for HAL to weigh in to manufacture aircraft, the Gandhi scion said: "The IAF came to UPA government and said that they want 126 fighter jets. The UPA government asked them to look around the world and buy the aircraft they find the best and buy them at the cheapest price. But we told them that the aircraft will be built in India as the youth want jobs and it will be made by HAL. Air Force people said that it`s totally correct."Rahul further said that the then Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar was unaware of all this. "He stood up and said, `I didn`t do this job. I don`t know what happened.` Prime Minister himself changed the contract. The French media asked them what has happened. How come Rs 526 crore became Rs 1,600 crore? Who is this Anil Ambani? How come he got this contract? Our press is a bit hesitant (in asking such questions)," he added.

The Congress chief then went on to say that people of Madhya Pradesh have "made up their minds" to dethrone Shivraj Singh Chouhan`s government. "And in few months 56-inch chowkidar`s government will also be removed. A woman told one of our workers that just like a tava gets bad in 10 years, similarly, Shivraj Singh Chouhan`s government has become like that tava. Now we have to pick up the tava and throw it out. Every Chief Minister in a BJP ruled state is involved in scams, where public money is stolen," he said.

Citing the controversy involving Chouhan`s son Kartikey, he asked: "Shivraj Singh Chouhan immediately filed a defamation case against me when I mistakenly used his son`s name in Panama Papers. But why didn`t he file a defamation case when I took his name in the Vyapam scam, the dumper scandal, and e-tendering?"

The assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh will be held for 230 seats on November 28, and the result will be declared on December 11.&nbsp;

Upping his ante against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with regards to the controversial Rafale fighter jets deal, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday said that even though Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)-made aircraft were used effectively by the Indian Air Force (IAF) to drop bombs during the 1999 Kargil War, the government did not find it competent enough to be part of the Rafale deal.

Upping his ante against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with regards to the controversial Rafale fighter jets deal, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday said that even though Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)-made aircraft were used effectively by the Indian Air Force (IAF) to drop bombs during the 1999 Kargil War, the government did not find it competent enough to be part of the Rafale deal. "During the Kargil War, HAL aircraft dropped bombs on the Pakistan Army. HAL knows how to make aircraft. The talks were confirmed. HAL discussed with France`s Dassault to buy one aircraft for Rs 526 crore. After that, `Chowkidar` became the Prime Minister. Soon after that, Prime Minister Modi visited France along with Anil Ambani. What happens next is that the Rs 526 crore aircraft now gets sold for Rs 1,600 crore. HAL is sidelined and Anil Ambani is made the offset partner. Anil Ambani never made an aircraft. HAL has been making aircraft for the last 70 years," Rahul said while addressing a rally in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh. The IAF had used MiG-21, MiG-23, MiG-27, MiG-29, Jaguar and Mirage-2000 aircraft during the Kargil War. The aircraft were assembled by HAL under license production from the manufacturers. Elaborating on the need for HAL to weigh in to manufacture aircraft, the Gandhi scion said: "The IAF came to UPA government and said that they want 126 fighter jets. The UPA government asked them to look around the world and buy the aircraft they find the best and buy them at the cheapest price. But we told them that the aircraft will be built in India as the youth want jobs and it will be made by HAL. Air Force people said that it`s totally correct."Rahul further said that the then Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar was unaware of all this. "He stood up and said, `I didn`t do this job. I don`t know what happened.` Prime Minister himself changed the contract. The French media asked them what has happened. How come Rs 526 crore became Rs 1,600 crore? Who is this Anil Ambani? How come he got this contract? Our press is a bit hesitant (in asking such questions)," he added. The Congress chief then went on to say that people of Madhya Pradesh have "made up their minds" to dethrone Shivraj Singh Chouhan`s government. "And in few months 56-inch chowkidar`s government will also be removed. A woman told one of our workers that just like a tava gets bad in 10 years, similarly, Shivraj Singh Chouhan`s government has become like that tava. Now we have to pick up the tava and throw it out. Every Chief Minister in a BJP ruled state is involved in scams, where public money is stolen," he said. Citing the controversy involving Chouhan`s son Kartikey, he asked: "Shivraj Singh Chouhan immediately filed a defamation case against me when I mistakenly used his son`s name in Panama Papers. But why didn`t he file a defamation case when I took his name in the Vyapam scam, the dumper scandal, and e-tendering?" The assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh will be held for 230 seats on November 28, and the result will be declared on December 11.

HAL-made planes dropped bombs in Kargil, yet govt sidelined it: Rahul Gandhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi once again targeted the Nehru-Gandhi family Saturday, saying farmers would not have been "ruined" had Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel been the country's first prime minister.

Addressing a rally here ahead of the November 28 Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls, he accused the Congress of "making false promises" and asked the opposition party whether late Indira Gandhi's "Garibi Hatao" (remove poverty) slogan a was a "lie" or not.

The prime minister's comments came in the wake of Congress president Rahul Gandhi accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of "making false promises" to people during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls.

Modi also referred to a video clip purportedly showing Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Kamal Nath, saying the Congress leader seeking votes only from a "particular community" was an insult to democracy.

A video clip surfaced last week, purportedly showing Nath telling Muslim leaders to ensure "90 per cent voting" in Muslim-dominated areas.

Modi also ridiculed "namdaar" Rahul Gandhi, saying the Congress chief was not being taken seriously by his own party.

"Farmers are suffering due to the wrong policies of the Congress governments...The result is that farmers are suffering...Now, they (the Congress) are defaming us.

"But the farmers would not have been ruined during the Congress's 55-year-rule had Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel been the country's first prime minister," he said.

The government "remote-controlled by Madam" gave loans to farmers at an interest rate of 15-16 per cent, while the BJP government was giving them interest-free loans, Modi said, in a veiled swipe at UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi.

Mandsaur had witnessed intense farmers' protests last year, leading to the death of six protesters in police firing.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi once again targeted the Nehru-Gandhi family Saturday, saying farmers would not have been "ruined" had Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel been the country's first prime minister.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi once again targeted the Nehru-Gandhi family Saturday, saying farmers would not have been "ruined" had Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel been the country's first prime minister. Addressing a rally here ahead of the November 28 Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls, he accused the Congress of "making false promises" and asked the opposition party whether late Indira Gandhi's "Garibi Hatao" (remove poverty) slogan a was a "lie" or not. The prime minister's comments came in the wake of Congress president Rahul Gandhi accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of "making false promises" to people during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls. Modi also referred to a video clip purportedly showing Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Kamal Nath, saying the Congress leader seeking votes only from a "particular community" was an insult to democracy. A video clip surfaced last week, purportedly showing Nath telling Muslim leaders to ensure "90 per cent voting" in Muslim-dominated areas. Modi also ridiculed "namdaar" Rahul Gandhi, saying the Congress chief was not being taken seriously by his own party. "Farmers are suffering due to the wrong policies of the Congress governments...The result is that farmers are suffering...Now, they (the Congress) are defaming us. "But the farmers would not have been ruined during the Congress's 55-year-rule had Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel been the country's first prime minister," he said. The government "remote-controlled by Madam" gave loans to farmers at an interest rate of 15-16 per cent, while the BJP government was giving them interest-free loans, Modi said, in a veiled swipe at UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi. Mandsaur had witnessed intense farmers' protests last year, leading to the death of six protesters in police firing.

Had Vallabhbhai Patel been PM, farmers would not have been ruined: PM Modi

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi said Saturday Prime Minister Narendra Modi has betrayed the people, claiming that he had not fulfilled promises of providing two crore jobs every year and "depositing" Rs 15 lakh in their bank accounts.

The Congress chief was addressing a rally at Sagar in Madhya Pradesh, where assembly polls will be held on November 28.

"Modiji has betrayed the people on the issue of providing jobs to two crore people every year and depositing Rs 15 lakh cash into their accounts by bringing (back) black money stashed abroad," Gandhi said.

Modi, during the 2014 Lok Sabha election campaign, had prominently highlighted the issue of black money and had promised to bring it back.&nbsp;

The fear of losing the 2019 general elections has created "hatred" in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mind against the Congress, Gandhi said addressing another rally at Damoh later.

The Congress chief said while Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan speaks with decency, Modi lacks it whenever he attacks the Congress and his family members.

"When you hear Modi's speech, he uses wrong words and speaks with hatred... And also speaks lies. The faith reposed by the people and youths in them has broken. Now, when Modi comes, people say he will speak lies," Gandhi said.

"He (Modi) speaks with hatred about me and my family, but Shivraj uses decent language. Modi doesn't know how to speak decently, but Rahul Gandhi will always maintain decency while speaking," he said.

"Though Chouhan has indulged in corruption, whenever he says anything against us, he speaks with decency," Gandhi added.&nbsp;

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi said Saturday Prime Minister Narendra Modi has betrayed the people, claiming that he had not fulfilled promises of providing two crore jobs every year and "depositing" Rs 15 lakh in their bank accounts.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi said Saturday Prime Minister Narendra Modi has betrayed the people, claiming that he had not fulfilled promises of providing two crore jobs every year and "depositing" Rs 15 lakh in their bank accounts. The Congress chief was addressing a rally at Sagar in Madhya Pradesh, where assembly polls will be held on November 28. "Modiji has betrayed the people on the issue of providing jobs to two crore people every year and depositing Rs 15 lakh cash into their accounts by bringing (back) black money stashed abroad," Gandhi said. Modi, during the 2014 Lok Sabha election campaign, had prominently highlighted the issue of black money and had promised to bring it back. The fear of losing the 2019 general elections has created "hatred" in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mind against the Congress, Gandhi said addressing another rally at Damoh later. The Congress chief said while Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan speaks with decency, Modi lacks it whenever he attacks the Congress and his family members. "When you hear Modi's speech, he uses wrong words and speaks with hatred... And also speaks lies. The faith reposed by the people and youths in them has broken. Now, when Modi comes, people say he will speak lies," Gandhi said. "He (Modi) speaks with hatred about me and my family, but Shivraj uses decent language. Modi doesn't know how to speak decently, but Rahul Gandhi will always maintain decency while speaking," he said. "Though Chouhan has indulged in corruption, whenever he says anything against us, he speaks with decency," Gandhi added.

Modi 'betrayed' people on promises of jobs, 'depositing' Rs 15 lakh in accounts: Rahul Gandhi

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Friday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi is "misguiding" people on the Rafale fighter aircraft deal with France and advised him to approach her predecessor A K Antony of the Congress to understand the process of defence procurement.

Gandhi has repeatedly alleged a mega scam in the Rafale fighter jet deal and accused the Modi government of favouring a private company in offset contract related to the Rs 58,000-crore defence agreement with Paris.

The government has vehemently denied Gandhi's charges.

"If he contacts and holds discussions with former Defence Minister (and Congress leader) A K Antony on process of procurement in the Rafale deal, he will understand it," she told reporters here.

The BJP leader was replying to a query about Gandhi making the controversial deal a big issue in the Madhya Pradesh assembly elections.

"But his intention was not to understand it. His intention is to misguide people over Rafale deal, so wherever he goes he raises it to misguide people," Sitharaman added.

"The public won't be misguided by him. We have taken the decision (to buy 36 Rafale jets from France) without kickback," the minister said.

She said this level of transparency in the Ministry of Defence was not there during earlier procurements (under the Congress rule).

To another query on the Rafale deal, Sitharaman said she would not comment as the issue is pending before the Supreme Court.

She said the NDA government has been giving clear and correct information about the mega defence deal and it will continue doing so.

Sitharaman said the Congress has no poll issue to talk about in Madhya Pradesh so it is raising the Rafale matter in the state, which goes to the polls on November 28.

"It is not a national issue also," the minister said to another query on the Rafale deal.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Friday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi is "misguiding" people on the Rafale fighter aircraft deal with France and advised him to approach her predecessor A K Antony of the Congress to understand the process of defence procurement.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Friday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi is "misguiding" people on the Rafale fighter aircraft deal with France and advised him to approach her predecessor A K Antony of the Congress to understand the process of defence procurement. Gandhi has repeatedly alleged a mega scam in the Rafale fighter jet deal and accused the Modi government of favouring a private company in offset contract related to the Rs 58,000-crore defence agreement with Paris. The government has vehemently denied Gandhi's charges. "If he contacts and holds discussions with former Defence Minister (and Congress leader) A K Antony on process of procurement in the Rafale deal, he will understand it," she told reporters here. The BJP leader was replying to a query about Gandhi making the controversial deal a big issue in the Madhya Pradesh assembly elections. "But his intention was not to understand it. His intention is to misguide people over Rafale deal, so wherever he goes he raises it to misguide people," Sitharaman added. "The public won't be misguided by him. We have taken the decision (to buy 36 Rafale jets from France) without kickback," the minister said. She said this level of transparency in the Ministry of Defence was not there during earlier procurements (under the Congress rule). To another query on the Rafale deal, Sitharaman said she would not comment as the issue is pending before the Supreme Court. She said the NDA government has been giving clear and correct information about the mega defence deal and it will continue doing so. Sitharaman said the Congress has no poll issue to talk about in Madhya Pradesh so it is raising the Rafale matter in the state, which goes to the polls on November 28. "It is not a national issue also," the minister said to another query on the Rafale deal.

Sitharaman to Rahul Gandhi: Meet AK Antony to understand Rafale buy process

UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi on Friday tore into Telangana's TRS government, saying it neglected minorities, women, students with Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao working only for himself and those close to him.

Development expected after Telangana's formation has not happened under TRS, she further said.

CM&nbsp;Rao cared only for himself and his own people leaving the child (Telangana) to suffer, she told an election rally at Medchal near in Telangana.

''Mothers know how important it is to look after a newborn baby. It is unfortunate that after the birth of Telangana, your responsibility fell into the hands of those who cared for themselves, but not for you,'' she said.

The UPA chairperson said that Congress is committed to special category status for Andhra Pradesh.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi, who also addressed the rally, said the TRS rule in Telangana was all set to end.

Only one man ran Telangana for five years; did everything to benefit his family, said, Rahul. &nbsp;

''When people of Telangana dreamed of forming the state, it was Sonia Gandhi Ji who stood by the people. If Telangana was formed, it was the public who formed it with their sweat and blood. Sonia Gandhi Ji also had a hand in its formation,'' added Rahul.&nbsp;

UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi on Friday tore into Telangana's TRS government, saying it neglected minorities, women, students with Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao working only for himself and those close to him.

UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi on Friday tore into Telangana's TRS government, saying it neglected minorities, women, students with Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao working only for himself and those close to him. Development expected after Telangana's formation has not happened under TRS, she further said. CM Rao cared only for himself and his own people leaving the child (Telangana) to suffer, she told an election rally at Medchal near in Telangana. ''Mothers know how important it is to look after a newborn baby. It is unfortunate that after the birth of Telangana, your responsibility fell into the hands of those who cared for themselves, but not for you,'' she said. The UPA chairperson said that Congress is committed to special category status for Andhra Pradesh. Congress president Rahul Gandhi, who also addressed the rally, said the TRS rule in Telangana was all set to end. Only one man ran Telangana for five years; did everything to benefit his family, said, Rahul. ''When people of Telangana dreamed of forming the state, it was Sonia Gandhi Ji who stood by the people. If Telangana was formed, it was the public who formed it with their sweat and blood. Sonia Gandhi Ji also had a hand in its formation,'' added Rahul.

Sonia, Rahul slam TRS president Chandrasekhar Rao in his home turf

Congress leader Raj Babbar's remark comparing the rupee's falling value against the US dollar with the age of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mother kicked up a controversy on Friday, with the BJP demanding an apology from the opposition party's president Rahul Gandhi.

Babbar made the controversial remark while addressing a rally in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh's Indore city on Thursday. Madhya Pradesh goes to polls on November 28 and results will be declared on December 11.

"(Before becoming the prime minister) Modi used to say that compared to the (US) dollar, the value of the rupee has fallen to a level where it is almost the same as the age of the then Prime Minister (Manmohan Singh)," Babbar, the Uttar Pradesh Congress chief, said.

"Mr Prime Minister, at that time, you had not taken his (Manmohan Singh) name out of respect. Although our tradition does not allow this, we wish to say that now the value of the rupee has fallen to the age of your respected mother," he added.

Modi's mother, Hiraba, is a nonagenarian.

The rupee has seen a continued fall against the US dollar this year, hovering a little over the 70-mark on Friday.

The BJP condemned Babbar's remark.

The party's national spokesperson Sambit Patra said it was not proper to use unparliamentary words or drag any person's mother into politics.

"But the Congress' attitude against the Prime Minister's mother has been improper from the beginning and such language was used even against the Prime Minister," Patra claimed.

"Rahul Gandhi should apologise and he should clarify whether he endorses such controversial statements," he said.&nbsp;

Congress leader Raj Babbar's remark comparing the rupee's falling value against the US dollar with the age of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mother kicked up a controversy on Friday, with the BJP demanding an apology from the opposition party's president Rahul Gandhi.

Congress leader Raj Babbar's remark comparing the rupee's falling value against the US dollar with the age of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mother kicked up a controversy on Friday, with the BJP demanding an apology from the opposition party's president Rahul Gandhi. Babbar made the controversial remark while addressing a rally in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh's Indore city on Thursday. Madhya Pradesh goes to polls on November 28 and results will be declared on December 11. "(Before becoming the prime minister) Modi used to say that compared to the (US) dollar, the value of the rupee has fallen to a level where it is almost the same as the age of the then Prime Minister (Manmohan Singh)," Babbar, the Uttar Pradesh Congress chief, said. "Mr Prime Minister, at that time, you had not taken his (Manmohan Singh) name out of respect. Although our tradition does not allow this, we wish to say that now the value of the rupee has fallen to the age of your respected mother," he added. Modi's mother, Hiraba, is a nonagenarian. The rupee has seen a continued fall against the US dollar this year, hovering a little over the 70-mark on Friday. The BJP condemned Babbar's remark. The party's national spokesperson Sambit Patra said it was not proper to use unparliamentary words or drag any person's mother into politics. "But the Congress' attitude against the Prime Minister's mother has been improper from the beginning and such language was used even against the Prime Minister," Patra claimed. "Rahul Gandhi should apologise and he should clarify whether he endorses such controversial statements," he said.

Babbar compares rupee's falling value with age of Modi's mother, BJP demands apology

Both the BJP and the Congress kept the caste arithmetic in mind while announcing their candidates for the Rajasthan assembly polls, fielding same-caste nominees against each other in at least 31 constituencies.

The two parties have fielded 33 candidates each belonging to the Jat community for the December 7 polls.

The ruling BJP has fielded 26 Rajputs and the Congress 15 from the community.

Altogether, over 60 candidates from the Scheduled Tribe and Scheduled Caste categories are in the fray.

Besides giving prominence to Brahmin, Vaishya, Other Backward Classes and SC/STs, the opposition Congress has fielded 15 Muslim candidates against only one by the Bharatiya Janata Party for the 200-seat House.

On the 31 seats where both the Congress and the BJP have fielded candidates belonging to the same caste, there is a direct contest between 15 candidates belonging to the Jat community.

Brahmins are pitted against Brahmins on seven seats, Rajputs fight each other on four, and Gurjars and Yadavs on two seats each.

Parties in Rajasthan have always kept the caste factor in mind while distributing tickets, observers said.

For example, for years, the BJP enjoyed the support of the Rajputs. But observers said even a slight swing in loyalties this time can change the outcome, they said.

The Congress, in any case, will benefit if anti-incumbency comes into play, it is felt.

In last assembly polls, the BJP vote share was 46.05 per cent against the 33.7 per cent polled by the Congress.

In the 2008 assembly election, the BJP vote share was 34.27 per cent against the 36.82 per cent of the Congress, according to the Election Commission data.

Among the prominent Jat leaders, Ram Pratap Kasnia of the BJP is pitted against Hanuman Meel of the Congress in Suratgarh, Ram Pratap of BJP against Vinod Chaudhary of the Congress in Hanumangarh and Ram Singh Kaswan of the BJP against Krishna Punia of the Congress in Sadulpur.

Among the Brahmin contestants, BJP's Gopal Joshi has been fielded against BD Kalla of the Congress in Bikaner West and Abhinesh Mehrishi of the BJP against Bhanwarlal of the Congress in Ratangarh.

Both the BJP and the Congress kept the caste arithmetic in mind while announcing their candidates for the Rajasthan assembly polls, fielding same-caste nominees against each other in at least 31 constituencies.

Both the BJP and the Congress kept the caste arithmetic in mind while announcing their candidates for the Rajasthan assembly polls, fielding same-caste nominees against each other in at least 31 constituencies. The two parties have fielded 33 candidates each belonging to the Jat community for the December 7 polls. The ruling BJP has fielded 26 Rajputs and the Congress 15 from the community. Altogether, over 60 candidates from the Scheduled Tribe and Scheduled Caste categories are in the fray. Besides giving prominence to Brahmin, Vaishya, Other Backward Classes and SC/STs, the opposition Congress has fielded 15 Muslim candidates against only one by the Bharatiya Janata Party for the 200-seat House. On the 31 seats where both the Congress and the BJP have fielded candidates belonging to the same caste, there is a direct contest between 15 candidates belonging to the Jat community. Brahmins are pitted against Brahmins on seven seats, Rajputs fight each other on four, and Gurjars and Yadavs on two seats each. Parties in Rajasthan have always kept the caste factor in mind while distributing tickets, observers said. For example, for years, the BJP enjoyed the support of the Rajputs. But observers said even a slight swing in loyalties this time can change the outcome, they said. The Congress, in any case, will benefit if anti-incumbency comes into play, it is felt. In last assembly polls, the BJP vote share was 46.05 per cent against the 33.7 per cent polled by the Congress. In the 2008 assembly election, the BJP vote share was 34.27 per cent against the 36.82 per cent of the Congress, according to the Election Commission data. Among the prominent Jat leaders, Ram Pratap Kasnia of the BJP is pitted against Hanuman Meel of the Congress in Suratgarh, Ram Pratap of BJP against Vinod Chaudhary of the Congress in Hanumangarh and Ram Singh Kaswan of the BJP against Krishna Punia of the Congress in Sadulpur. Among the Brahmin contestants, BJP's Gopal Joshi has been fielded against BD Kalla of the Congress in Bikaner West and Abhinesh Mehrishi of the BJP against Bhanwarlal of the Congress in Ratangarh.

Caste major factor in Rajasthan polls

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday said Indians have realised that there is no substance in what Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks, adding the latter is mum on the issues he spoke about before the 2014 elections.

Addressing a campaign rally in Madhya Pradesh for the November 28 upcoming&nbsp;Assembly polls, Gandhi said Modi's speeches used to be about corruption, farmers and unemployment.

"Today, he doesn't say anything on these issues. People of the country have realised that there is no substance in what Modi speaks. All his assurances are false," Gandhi said.

"Before 2014, Narendra Modi promised loan waiver, bonus and better price for farmers' produce; I want to ask him why were the assurances not fulfilled," he said.

When the Congress forms the next government in Madhya Pradesh, the chief minister will work for 18 hours a day to provide employment to youth, Gandhi said.

"Unemployment and farm crisis are rampant in all the poll-bound states," he said, adding the government has told Parliament that only 450 youth get jobs per day in India, as against 50,000 in China in the same period.

Gandhi promised loan waiver to farmers "within 10 days of coming to power" in Madhya Pradesh and making the state an "agriculture hub" of the country.

The Congress leader said the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government in the state destroyed the education sector with Vyapam, the entrance examination, admission and recruitment scam unearthed in Madhya Pradesh in 2013.

On the Rafale deal, Gandhi said Modi gave Rs 30,000 crore benefit to industrialist Anil Ambani by taking away the contract from the state-owned aerospace company Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

"Even BJP leaders Yashwant Sinha and Arun Shourie have said due processes were not followed in the Rafale deal. The CBI director was about to start a probe into the Rafale scam but he was removed from his post at 2 am," Gandhi said.

"If a probe is carried out, only two names, that of Modi and Anil Ambani, would figure in it," he said.

Gandhi said,"Modi speaks of surgical strikes. The fighter aircraft used in the strikes were manufactured at HAL, while Ambani doesn't have any experience of making aircraft".

"Ambani has a debt of Rs 45,000 crore and is yet to repay the money given to him by public sector banks, he said.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday said Indians have realised that there is no substance in what Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks, adding the latter is mum on the issues he spoke about before the 2014 elections.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday said Indians have realised that there is no substance in what Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks, adding the latter is mum on the issues he spoke about before the 2014 elections. Addressing a campaign rally in Madhya Pradesh for the November 28 upcoming Assembly polls, Gandhi said Modi's speeches used to be about corruption, farmers and unemployment. "Today, he doesn't say anything on these issues. People of the country have realised that there is no substance in what Modi speaks. All his assurances are false," Gandhi said. "Before 2014, Narendra Modi promised loan waiver, bonus and better price for farmers' produce; I want to ask him why were the assurances not fulfilled," he said. When the Congress forms the next government in Madhya Pradesh, the chief minister will work for 18 hours a day to provide employment to youth, Gandhi said. "Unemployment and farm crisis are rampant in all the poll-bound states," he said, adding the government has told Parliament that only 450 youth get jobs per day in India, as against 50,000 in China in the same period. Gandhi promised loan waiver to farmers "within 10 days of coming to power" in Madhya Pradesh and making the state an "agriculture hub" of the country. The Congress leader said the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government in the state destroyed the education sector with Vyapam, the entrance examination, admission and recruitment scam unearthed in Madhya Pradesh in 2013. On the Rafale deal, Gandhi said Modi gave Rs 30,000 crore benefit to industrialist Anil Ambani by taking away the contract from the state-owned aerospace company Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). "Even BJP leaders Yashwant Sinha and Arun Shourie have said due processes were not followed in the Rafale deal. The CBI director was about to start a probe into the Rafale scam but he was removed from his post at 2 am," Gandhi said. "If a probe is carried out, only two names, that of Modi and Anil Ambani, would figure in it," he said. Gandhi said,"Modi speaks of surgical strikes. The fighter aircraft used in the strikes were manufactured at HAL, while Ambani doesn't have any experience of making aircraft". "Ambani has a debt of Rs 45,000 crore and is yet to repay the money given to him by public sector banks, he said.

No substance in what Modi speaks, says Rahul Gandhi

In a veiled attack on Congress president Rahul Gandhi over his visits to temples in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said the one "who has been visiting temples in a bid to win elections these days don't know how to sit" there.

Addressing an election rally, Rajnath Singh also accused the Congress of trying to win votes by instigating social, casteist and religious sentiments, instead of focusing on humanity.

"The one who has been visiting temples in a bid to win the elections these days doesn't know how to sit in the temple...at times he sits on knees and sometimes stands up," Singh said.

"Where were they earlier? Such people don't win by visiting temples," he said.

Singh said although the BJP has declared Shivraj Singh Chouhan as its chief ministerial face, the opposition party was yet to announce a CM face.

"But it is a mystery who will be the Congress's CM face. There is a marriage procession, but nobody knows who the groom is," he said.

The minister said the Congress was playing 'Kaun Banega Mukhyamantri' with the people of the state on the lines of TV reality show 'Kaun Banega Crorepati'.

Terming MP Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan as a champion of good governance, Mr Singh said the state has taken a leap in terms of development in the past 15 years.

In a veiled attack on Congress president Rahul Gandhi over his visits to temples in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said the one "who has been visiting temples in a bid to win elections these days don't know how to sit" there.

In a veiled attack on Congress president Rahul Gandhi over his visits to temples in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said the one "who has been visiting temples in a bid to win elections these days don't know how to sit" there. Addressing an election rally, Rajnath Singh also accused the Congress of trying to win votes by instigating social, casteist and religious sentiments, instead of focusing on humanity. "The one who has been visiting temples in a bid to win the elections these days doesn't know how to sit in the temple...at times he sits on knees and sometimes stands up," Singh said. "Where were they earlier? Such people don't win by visiting temples," he said. Singh said although the BJP has declared Shivraj Singh Chouhan as its chief ministerial face, the opposition party was yet to announce a CM face. "But it is a mystery who will be the Congress's CM face. There is a marriage procession, but nobody knows who the groom is," he said. The minister said the Congress was playing 'Kaun Banega Mukhyamantri' with the people of the state on the lines of TV reality show 'Kaun Banega Crorepati'. Terming MP Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan as a champion of good governance, Mr Singh said the state has taken a leap in terms of development in the past 15 years.

Don't win by visiting temples: Rajnath Singh's dig at Rahul Gandhi

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Tuesday accused the Narendra Modi-led government of interfering in the functioning of important institutions like the Election Commission and the CBI.

Addressing an election rally in poll-bound Mizoram's capital Aizawl, Gandhi said being an RSS man is sufficient qualification to be governor or vice chancellor.&nbsp;

He also reiterated his allegations of corruption in the Rafale deal and said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has robbed public money and used it to buy publicity.

The government has denied the opposition party's allegations on the fighter jet deal with France.

"The Modi government is interfering in the functioning of the Planning Commission, RBI, CBI and Election Commission. Four judges of the Supreme Court said they could not do their jobs due to government interference," Gandhi said.

In January, four senior-most judges of the Supreme Court -- Justices J Chelameswar, Ranjan Gogoi, M B Lokur and Kurian Joseph -- called a press conference to say the situation in the top court was "not in order". Gogoi is now chief justice.

"To be governor or VC of a university, being an RSS man is sufficient qualification," Gandhi, who had addressed a rally in Champhai in the state earlier in the day, said while hitting out at the ruling BJP's ideological mentor.&nbsp;

The Congress president also attacked the opposition MNF for allegedly working with the BJP in the Mizoram elections.

Lauding his party government in the state for the past 10 years, he said the per capita income of Mizoram is higher than the national average.

"This happened due to united efforts of the people, churches and civil societies," he added. 
Elections to the 40-member Mizoram assembly will be held on November 28.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Tuesday accused the Narendra Modi-led government of interfering in the functioning of important institutions like the Election Commission and the CBI.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Tuesday accused the Narendra Modi-led government of interfering in the functioning of important institutions like the Election Commission and the CBI. Addressing an election rally in poll-bound Mizoram's capital Aizawl, Gandhi said being an RSS man is sufficient qualification to be governor or vice chancellor. He also reiterated his allegations of corruption in the Rafale deal and said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has robbed public money and used it to buy publicity. The government has denied the opposition party's allegations on the fighter jet deal with France. "The Modi government is interfering in the functioning of the Planning Commission, RBI, CBI and Election Commission. Four judges of the Supreme Court said they could not do their jobs due to government interference," Gandhi said. In January, four senior-most judges of the Supreme Court -- Justices J Chelameswar, Ranjan Gogoi, M B Lokur and Kurian Joseph -- called a press conference to say the situation in the top court was "not in order". Gogoi is now chief justice. "To be governor or VC of a university, being an RSS man is sufficient qualification," Gandhi, who had addressed a rally in Champhai in the state earlier in the day, said while hitting out at the ruling BJP's ideological mentor. The Congress president also attacked the opposition MNF for allegedly working with the BJP in the Mizoram elections. Lauding his party government in the state for the past 10 years, he said the per capita income of Mizoram is higher than the national average. "This happened due to united efforts of the people, churches and civil societies," he added. Elections to the 40-member Mizoram assembly will be held on November 28.

Government interfering in functioning of important institutions like EC, CBI: Rahul Gandhi

The opposition is suffering from the "Narendra Modi-phobia", BJP president Amit Shah said today. Addressing a rally in Madhya Pradesh's&nbsp;Narsinghpur ahead of the November 28 assembly election, Shah asked the Congress to give an account of what the four generations of the Nehru-Gandhi family did when they ruled the country.

"The opposition is suffering from Narendra Modi-phobia. They just want to get rid of (PM) Modi from the prime minister's post while we want to get rid of poverty, insecurity and air pollution among others," Shah said.

The BJP chief&nbsp;said the Narendra Modi government launched 129 developmental schemes in four years. "Give an account of what the four generations (of Nehru-Gandhi family) did when they ruled the country," he said.

"In a recent rally, Rahul Gandhi uttered (PM) Modi's name 44 times in his 22-minute speech. I am wondering whether he is campaigning for the BJP or the Congress," Shah said, in remarks laced with sarcasm.

He also lauded the centre for the army's surgical strike on terror launchpads across the border post the Uri attack in 2016.

"When the Uri terror attack took place, the entire country was angry. (PM) Modi ordered surgical strikes and made India the third country in the world after the US and Israel who have avenged killings of its soldiers," he said.

Shah alleged that former prime minister Manmohan Singh had left the Indian economy at ninth position in the world in 2014, which, he said, the BJP raised to sixth position.

"By the time counting of these polls is done, India would have surpassed the UK to become the fifth-largest economy in the world," he added.

The opposition is suffering from the "Narendra Modi-phobia", BJP president Amit Shah said today. Addressing a rally in Madhya Pradesh's Narsinghpur ahead of the November 28 assembly election, Shah asked the Congress to give an account of what the four generations of the Nehru-Gandhi family did when they ruled the country.

The opposition is suffering from the "Narendra Modi-phobia", BJP president Amit Shah said today. Addressing a rally in Madhya Pradesh's Narsinghpur ahead of the November 28 assembly election, Shah asked the Congress to give an account of what the four generations of the Nehru-Gandhi family did when they ruled the country. "The opposition is suffering from Narendra Modi-phobia. They just want to get rid of (PM) Modi from the prime minister's post while we want to get rid of poverty, insecurity and air pollution among others," Shah said. The BJP chief said the Narendra Modi government launched 129 developmental schemes in four years. "Give an account of what the four generations (of Nehru-Gandhi family) did when they ruled the country," he said. "In a recent rally, Rahul Gandhi uttered (PM) Modi's name 44 times in his 22-minute speech. I am wondering whether he is campaigning for the BJP or the Congress," Shah said, in remarks laced with sarcasm. He also lauded the centre for the army's surgical strike on terror launchpads across the border post the Uri attack in 2016. "When the Uri terror attack took place, the entire country was angry. (PM) Modi ordered surgical strikes and made India the third country in the world after the US and Israel who have avenged killings of its soldiers," he said. Shah alleged that former prime minister Manmohan Singh had left the Indian economy at ninth position in the world in 2014, which, he said, the BJP raised to sixth position. "By the time counting of these polls is done, India would have surpassed the UK to become the fifth-largest economy in the world," he added.

Rahul Gandhi has 'Modi-Phobia', named him 44 times in speech: Amit Shah

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Monday launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said that he and his party coterie is destroying every institution they can get their hands on.&nbsp;

Gandhi took to social media platform Twitter and said that even in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-pressure-on-rbi-will-become-abundantly-clear-in-monday-meeting-board-members-178018">RBI meet</a>, Narendra Modi's puppets will attempt to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/rbi-board-members-meet-as-government-seeks-credit-liquidity-178115">destroy the RBI</a>.&nbsp;

"Mr Modi and his coterie of cronies, continue to destroy every institution they can get their hands on. Today, through his puppets at the RBI Board Meet he will attempt to destroy the RBI. I hope Mr Patel and his team have a spine and show him his place", Gandhi tweeted amid the ongoing rift with the government and the Reserve Bank of India.

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Mr Modi and his coterie of cronies, continue to destroy every institution they can get their hands on. Today, through his puppets at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RBIBoardMeet?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RBIBoardMeet</a> he will attempt to destroy the RBI. I hope Mr Patel and his team have a spine and show him his place.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1064387123158093825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Congress has accused the Modi government of destroying every institution in the country and the latest one being the Reserve Bank of India.

The RBI's crucial board meeting today is expected to take up the liquidity crisis that has triggered a tiff between the government and the central bank.

The meeting is being held in the background of tension between the Centre and the RBI after Finance Ministry cited the never-used-before Section 7 of the RBI Act which empowers the government to issue directions to the RBI Governor.

The government on November 9 had said it was discussing an "appropriate" size of capital reserves that the central bank must maintain but denied seeking a massive capital transfer from the RBI.

Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg had also clarified that the government wasn't in any dire needs of funds and that there was no proposal to ask the RBI to transfer Rs 3.6 lakh crore.

(With inputs from PTI)

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Monday launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said that he and his party coterie is destroying every institution they can get their hands on.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Monday launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said that he and his party coterie is destroying every institution they can get their hands on. Gandhi took to social media platform Twitter and said that even in the RBI meet, Narendra Modi's puppets will attempt to destroy the RBI. "Mr Modi and his coterie of cronies, continue to destroy every institution they can get their hands on. Today, through his puppets at the RBI Board Meet he will attempt to destroy the RBI. I hope Mr Patel and his team have a spine and show him his place", Gandhi tweeted amid the ongoing rift with the government and the Reserve Bank of India. Mr Modi and his coterie of cronies, continue to destroy every institution they can get their hands on. Today, through his puppets at the #RBIBoardMeet he will attempt to destroy the RBI. I hope Mr Patel and his team have a spine and show him his place. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 19, 2018 × The Congress has accused the Modi government of destroying every institution in the country and the latest one being the Reserve Bank of India. The RBI's crucial board meeting today is expected to take up the liquidity crisis that has triggered a tiff between the government and the central bank. The meeting is being held in the background of tension between the Centre and the RBI after Finance Ministry cited the never-used-before Section 7 of the RBI Act which empowers the government to issue directions to the RBI Governor. The government on November 9 had said it was discussing an "appropriate" size of capital reserves that the central bank must maintain but denied seeking a massive capital transfer from the RBI. Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg had also clarified that the government wasn't in any dire needs of funds and that there was no proposal to ask the RBI to transfer Rs 3.6 lakh crore. (With inputs from PTI)

RBI board meeting: Rahul Gandhi says Urjit Patel and his team 'must show Narendra Modi his place'

Stepping up attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday challenged the former to participate in a debate over the details of the Rafale fighter jets deal signed with the French government.

Gandhi claimed that the Prime Minister will not be in a position to answer his questions over the alleged scams in the deal.

"I challenge Modi Ji to come on stage anywhere, anytime and debate over Rafale with me for just 15 minutes. I will talk about Anil Ambani, HAL, French President's statements and the pricing of the jets. I will say that Defence Minister said clearly that it's Prime Minister who did it. The Prime Minister did not follow the procedure. The CBI Director was removed at 2 am. He will not be able to answer my questions," said Mr Gandhi.

Reiterating his claim, the Congress chief said that Prime Minister Modi's demonetisation drive has benefited few of his "businessmen friends" in the country.

Talking about the unemployment crisis in Chhattisgarh, Mr Gandhi said that the incumbent Chief Minister Raman Singh has failed to provide employment in the state despite ruling for 15 years.

"Raman Singh has been in power for the last 15 years and Prime Minister Modi has completed four and a half years in government at the Centre and both the governments have failed to fulfil their promise to generate employment opportunities for the youth," he said.

Mr Gandhi added that once the Congress party comes to power in the state, government job vacancies will be filled. "After Congress government comes to power, government job vacancies will be filled and it will also stop the practice of outsourcing of jobs, which is being done in BJP-ruled Chhattisgarh", he added.

He also promised that within 10 days after coming into power, the Congress party will waive off the loans of Chhattisgarh's farmers. "Secondly, you all were told that you will get a bonus. For the last two years, you have not been getting the same. Not only we will resume this practice, but we will also compensate for the bonus of these two years, which BJP failed to do," said the Congress chief.

The first phase of voting in Chhattisgarh was held on November 12, while the second phase is due on November 20. The counting of votes will be held on December 11.&nbsp;

Stepping up attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday challenged the former to participate in a debate over the details of the Rafale fighter jets deal signed with the French government.

Stepping up attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday challenged the former to participate in a debate over the details of the Rafale fighter jets deal signed with the French government. Gandhi claimed that the Prime Minister will not be in a position to answer his questions over the alleged scams in the deal. "I challenge Modi Ji to come on stage anywhere, anytime and debate over Rafale with me for just 15 minutes. I will talk about Anil Ambani, HAL, French President's statements and the pricing of the jets. I will say that Defence Minister said clearly that it's Prime Minister who did it. The Prime Minister did not follow the procedure. The CBI Director was removed at 2 am. He will not be able to answer my questions," said Mr Gandhi. Reiterating his claim, the Congress chief said that Prime Minister Modi's demonetisation drive has benefited few of his "businessmen friends" in the country. Talking about the unemployment crisis in Chhattisgarh, Mr Gandhi said that the incumbent Chief Minister Raman Singh has failed to provide employment in the state despite ruling for 15 years. "Raman Singh has been in power for the last 15 years and Prime Minister Modi has completed four and a half years in government at the Centre and both the governments have failed to fulfil their promise to generate employment opportunities for the youth," he said. Mr Gandhi added that once the Congress party comes to power in the state, government job vacancies will be filled. "After Congress government comes to power, government job vacancies will be filled and it will also stop the practice of outsourcing of jobs, which is being done in BJP-ruled Chhattisgarh", he added. He also promised that within 10 days after coming into power, the Congress party will waive off the loans of Chhattisgarh's farmers. "Secondly, you all were told that you will get a bonus. For the last two years, you have not been getting the same. Not only we will resume this practice, but we will also compensate for the bonus of these two years, which BJP failed to do," said the Congress chief. The first phase of voting in Chhattisgarh was held on November 12, while the second phase is due on November 20. The counting of votes will be held on December 11.

Rahul Gandhi challenges PM Modi for debate on Rafale deal

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday alleged that under the Modi government "fast entry gates" of ministries "open for those who possess fake degrees".&nbsp;

Gandhi also attacked the RSS alleging that its "farjical (fake) strike" continues on educational institutes of the Delhi University.

Taking to Twitter, he launched a tirade against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying," Shri chappan aur unke mantriyon ne chatron ko dikhaya hai ki BJP mai mantrimandal ka shighra dwar farzi degree dikha kar khulta hai. ('Mr 56' and his ministers have shown students that under the BJP fast entry gates of ministries open for those who possess fake degrees)."&nbsp;

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श्री छप्पन और उनके मंत्रियों ने छात्रों को दिखाया है कि भाजपा में मंत्रीमंडल का शीघ्र द्वार फ़र्ज़ी डिग्री दिखा कर खुलता है| 
 
शैक्षिक संस्थानों पर प्रहार और फ़र्ज़ी डिग्री वालों को सत्ता पर बिठाना RSS का पुराना सिद्धांत है| 
 
इसीलिए DU पर RSS का फ़र्जिकल स्ट्राइक जारी है| <a href="https://t.co/VrKBLtzeDF">pic.twitter.com/VrKBLtzeDF</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1063374365822210049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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There was no immediate comment from the Prime Minister's Office or the BJP.&nbsp;

"The RSS' has an old tradition of attacking educational institutions and helping those with fake degrees attain power.

"That is why the 'farjical strikes' of RSS continue on Delhi University," he tweeted in Hindi.

The Congress chief also tweeted a picture of Modi, Union minister Smriti Irani and ABVP's Delhi University president Ankiv Baisoya, alleging "Fake degree is in BJP's DNA".

Baisoya has stepped down from his post after reports of him possessing a fake degree.

The ABVP said Thursday DUSU president Baisoya has resigned from his post after it asked him to do so, and has also been suspended from the students outfit till an inquiry into allegations that he gained admission to the Delhi University on the basis of a fake degree.

While the RSS-affiliated Akhil Bhartiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) said the decision was taken to maintain the "genuineness" of the Delhi University Students

Union (DUSU), the move drew criticism from the NSUI and AISA, which claimed it was done under pressure ahead of the high court hearing on November 20.

In a Facebook post, Baisoya said he was resigning form the post of DUSU president because he respects the mandate of Delhi University students, who voted for him.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday alleged that under the Modi government "fast entry gates" of ministries "open for those who possess fake degrees". Gandhi also attacked the RSS alleging that its "farjical (fake) strike" continues on educational institutes of the Delhi University.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday alleged that under the Modi government "fast entry gates" of ministries "open for those who possess fake degrees". Gandhi also attacked the RSS alleging that its "farjical (fake) strike" continues on educational institutes of the Delhi University. Taking to Twitter, he launched a tirade against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying," Shri chappan aur unke mantriyon ne chatron ko dikhaya hai ki BJP mai mantrimandal ka shighra dwar farzi degree dikha kar khulta hai. ('Mr 56' and his ministers have shown students that under the BJP fast entry gates of ministries open for those who possess fake degrees)." श्री छप्पन और उनके मंत्रियों ने छात्रों को दिखाया है कि भाजपा में मंत्रीमंडल का शीघ्र द्वार फ़र्ज़ी डिग्री दिखा कर खुलता है| शैक्षिक संस्थानों पर प्रहार और फ़र्ज़ी डिग्री वालों को सत्ता पर बिठाना RSS का पुराना सिद्धांत है| इसीलिए DU पर RSS का फ़र्जिकल स्ट्राइक जारी है| pic.twitter.com/VrKBLtzeDF — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 16, 2018 × There was no immediate comment from the Prime Minister's Office or the BJP. "The RSS' has an old tradition of attacking educational institutions and helping those with fake degrees attain power. "That is why the 'farjical strikes' of RSS continue on Delhi University," he tweeted in Hindi. The Congress chief also tweeted a picture of Modi, Union minister Smriti Irani and ABVP's Delhi University president Ankiv Baisoya, alleging "Fake degree is in BJP's DNA". Baisoya has stepped down from his post after reports of him possessing a fake degree. The ABVP said Thursday DUSU president Baisoya has resigned from his post after it asked him to do so, and has also been suspended from the students outfit till an inquiry into allegations that he gained admission to the Delhi University on the basis of a fake degree. While the RSS-affiliated Akhil Bhartiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) said the decision was taken to maintain the "genuineness" of the Delhi University Students Union (DUSU), the move drew criticism from the NSUI and AISA, which claimed it was done under pressure ahead of the high court hearing on November 20. In a Facebook post, Baisoya said he was resigning form the post of DUSU president because he respects the mandate of Delhi University students, who voted for him.

Under Modi govt, 'fast entry gates' of ministries open for those with 'fake degrees': Rahul

Congress Party workers gathered outside the residence of party President Rahul Gandhi to stage a protest after the list of candidates for Rajasthan Assembly Elections was released and were detained by police.

One of the disgruntled party workers said, "Instead of parachute candidates, I request him (Rahul Gandhi) to give tickets to those who gave blood and toil to the Congress.

The Congress released its first list of 152 candidates for the Rajasthan assembly elections. The list includes the names of Sachin Pilot, the leader of opposition in the state, and former chief minister Ashok Gehlot.

After detailed deliberations at the party's Central Election Committee, it was decided that Pilot, who is the Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee (RPCC) chief, will contest from Tonk, while Gehlot will contest from his home turf - Sardarpura constituency.

Meanwhile, senior party leaders CP Joshi and Giriraj Vyas will contest from Nathdwara and Udaipur, respectively.

On Thursday, former Hyderabad Mayor and Congress leader Banda Karthika Reddy, along with her husband Chandra Reddy, sat in protest outside Gandhi's residence after she was denied a ticket to contest the forthcoming Telangana assembly elections.

The Congress leader, who was elected as the first woman Mayor of the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation in 2009, said that she has given 30 years of dedicated service to the party, despite which she was overlooked.

Reddy was later detained by the police.

Single phase elections in both Telangana and Rajasthan will be held on December 7, and counting of votes will take place on December 11.

Congress Party workers gathered outside the residence of party President Rahul Gandhi to stage a protest after the list of candidates for Rajasthan Assembly Elections was released and were detained by police.

Congress Party workers gathered outside the residence of party President Rahul Gandhi to stage a protest after the list of candidates for Rajasthan Assembly Elections was released and were detained by police. One of the disgruntled party workers said, "Instead of parachute candidates, I request him (Rahul Gandhi) to give tickets to those who gave blood and toil to the Congress. The Congress released its first list of 152 candidates for the Rajasthan assembly elections. The list includes the names of Sachin Pilot, the leader of opposition in the state, and former chief minister Ashok Gehlot. After detailed deliberations at the party's Central Election Committee, it was decided that Pilot, who is the Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee (RPCC) chief, will contest from Tonk, while Gehlot will contest from his home turf - Sardarpura constituency. Meanwhile, senior party leaders CP Joshi and Giriraj Vyas will contest from Nathdwara and Udaipur, respectively. On Thursday, former Hyderabad Mayor and Congress leader Banda Karthika Reddy, along with her husband Chandra Reddy, sat in protest outside Gandhi's residence after she was denied a ticket to contest the forthcoming Telangana assembly elections. The Congress leader, who was elected as the first woman Mayor of the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation in 2009, said that she has given 30 years of dedicated service to the party, despite which she was overlooked. Reddy was later detained by the police. Single phase elections in both Telangana and Rajasthan will be held on December 7, and counting of votes will take place on December 11.

Congress workers protest against ticket distribution outside Rahul Gandhi's residence, detained

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday launched a fresh attack on prime minister and accused Modi of personally increasing the benchmark price of Rafale jets by 3 billion Euros &nbsp;(Rs. 22,743Cr).

''Another RAFALE Skeleton! Mr Modi personally increased the benchmark price of RAFALE jets by 3 Billion Euros (₹22,743Cr). The former Director of Finance, MOD, just said that he and the negotiating team were overruled by Mr 56,'' Rahul Gandhi tweeted.

The Gandhi scion's fresh attack comes even as the Supreme Court reserved its judgement Wednesday on the clutch of petitions seeking a court-monitored probe into the Rafale deal.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Congress accused Prime Minister Modi of sabotaging country's interest for the sake of his cronies and alleging he fixed a higher benchmark price for the French fighter jets.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi took on Modi, saying the "Chowkidar (watchman) has sold out".

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday launched a fresh attack on prime minister and accused Modi of personally increasing the benchmark price of Rafale jets by 3 billion Euros (Rs.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday launched a fresh attack on prime minister and accused Modi of personally increasing the benchmark price of Rafale jets by 3 billion Euros (Rs. 22,743Cr). ''Another RAFALE Skeleton! Mr Modi personally increased the benchmark price of RAFALE jets by 3 Billion Euros (₹22,743Cr). The former Director of Finance, MOD, just said that he and the negotiating team were overruled by Mr 56,'' Rahul Gandhi tweeted. The Gandhi scion's fresh attack comes even as the Supreme Court reserved its judgement Wednesday on the clutch of petitions seeking a court-monitored probe into the Rafale deal. Earlier in the day, Congress accused Prime Minister Modi of sabotaging country's interest for the sake of his cronies and alleging he fixed a higher benchmark price for the French fighter jets. Congress President Rahul Gandhi took on Modi, saying the "Chowkidar (watchman) has sold out".

Modi increased benchmark price of Rafale jets by 3 billion Euros: Rahul Gandhi

Delhi High Court has adjourned AJL (Associated Journals limited) plea seeking quashing Centre's order of eviction and told the Centre to maintain status quo till the next hearing on November 22.&nbsp;

Associated journals limited, the publishers of National Herald newspaper moved Delhi high court after they were asked to handover the possession to the centre by November 15. While the centre also warned that AJL's failure to vacate the premises will result in penalisation under the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorized Occupants) Act, 1971.&nbsp;

The plea states that Centre's order for eviction is illegal, unconstitutional arbitrary, tainted with malafide and without authority and jurisdiction. However senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi arguing for the publisher (AJL) said that the prosecution had ulterior political motives.&nbsp;

On December 4th, Supreme Court bench of Justices AK Sikri and SA Nazeer will hear Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi’s appeal challenging Delhi High Court's order which had dismissed their pleas against IT departments reopening of their tax assessments for the year 2011-2012.&nbsp;

Delhi High Court has adjourned AJL (Associated Journals limited) plea seeking quashing Centre's order of eviction and told the Centre to maintain status quo till the next hearing on November 22.

Delhi High Court has adjourned AJL (Associated Journals limited) plea seeking quashing Centre's order of eviction and told the Centre to maintain status quo till the next hearing on November 22. Associated journals limited, the publishers of National Herald newspaper moved Delhi high court after they were asked to handover the possession to the centre by November 15. While the centre also warned that AJL's failure to vacate the premises will result in penalisation under the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorized Occupants) Act, 1971. The plea states that Centre's order for eviction is illegal, unconstitutional arbitrary, tainted with malafide and without authority and jurisdiction. However senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi arguing for the publisher (AJL) said that the prosecution had ulterior political motives. On December 4th, Supreme Court bench of Justices AK Sikri and SA Nazeer will hear Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi’s appeal challenging Delhi High Court's order which had dismissed their pleas against IT departments reopening of their tax assessments for the year 2011-2012.

National Herald case: Maintain status quo till the next hearing, High Court to Centre

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Wednesday took a potshot at Congress president Rahul Gandhi, labeling him as "a confused person" and questioning his ability to lead the nation.

Addressing an election rally in Rajgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Chouhan said, "Rahul Baba doesn't even know whether onion grows in the field. He is confused. He says that my son's name cropped up in Panama Papers case. We are mere farmers. We don't even know what Panama is. When I asked for proof, he apologized, saying that he was confused. Can confused people like him run a government?"

He also came down heavily on the Congress leader and Madhya Pradesh unit chief Kamal Nath for his comments regarding women candidates, saying that his party did not hand out tickets to women just for the sake of fulfilling a quota or for decoration.

"This is India. You need to understand Indian culture, where mothers, daughters, sisters are kept at a very high pedestal. In this country, which respects women, you compared them to decorative things. This is an insult to our women, which will not be tolerated," Chouhan said.

He also attacked indirectly Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia for his royal background, saying "Congress leaders are angry because I am a farmer's son and they come from a family of kings. They think how this man has been the chief minister for so many years when the responsibility of governance has traditionally been with them. They are angry because I do good for the people. I pay their bills. I give books for students. They are very angry."

The state will go to polls on November 28 to elect 230 members of the legislative assembly.

The results will be declared on December 11.

The Congress has been out of power in the state since 2004. Chouhan, who has held the chief minister's post since 2005, will contest from Budhni constituency, where the Congress has fielded Arun Yadav to take on him.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Wednesday took a potshot at Congress president Rahul Gandhi, labeling him as "a confused person" and questioning his ability to lead the nation.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Wednesday took a potshot at Congress president Rahul Gandhi, labeling him as "a confused person" and questioning his ability to lead the nation. Addressing an election rally in Rajgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Chouhan said, "Rahul Baba doesn't even know whether onion grows in the field. He is confused. He says that my son's name cropped up in Panama Papers case. We are mere farmers. We don't even know what Panama is. When I asked for proof, he apologized, saying that he was confused. Can confused people like him run a government?" He also came down heavily on the Congress leader and Madhya Pradesh unit chief Kamal Nath for his comments regarding women candidates, saying that his party did not hand out tickets to women just for the sake of fulfilling a quota or for decoration. "This is India. You need to understand Indian culture, where mothers, daughters, sisters are kept at a very high pedestal. In this country, which respects women, you compared them to decorative things. This is an insult to our women, which will not be tolerated," Chouhan said. He also attacked indirectly Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia for his royal background, saying "Congress leaders are angry because I am a farmer's son and they come from a family of kings. They think how this man has been the chief minister for so many years when the responsibility of governance has traditionally been with them. They are angry because I do good for the people. I pay their bills. I give books for students. They are very angry." The state will go to polls on November 28 to elect 230 members of the legislative assembly. The results will be declared on December 11. The Congress has been out of power in the state since 2004. Chouhan, who has held the chief minister's post since 2005, will contest from Budhni constituency, where the Congress has fielded Arun Yadav to take on him.

Rahul Gandhi a confused person, can't run government: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

The BJP on Wednesday launched an attack on Rahul Gandhi over his <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-probe-will-throw-up-names-of-modi-ambani-rahul-gandhi-177380">comments made during a rally in Chhattisgarh earlier in the day</a>. Union Minister of State for external affairs VK Singh said that those who are levelling accusations over Rafale deal are "illiterate."

"Those who are making accusations are illiterate. They don't have any knowledge about it. So it won't be right to further comment on it," Singh told media.&nbsp;

Over the involvement of Reliance group in the Rafale deal, Singh stated that the authorities from the group have already spoken on the issue and that there is no point dragging the matter, taking names, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Singh's remarks came after Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday stated that a probe into the procurement of Rafale fighter jets from France would throw up names of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Anil Ambani; Gandhi was addressing a rally in Chhattisgarh.&nbsp;

Gandhi also claimed the NDA government bought the planes at Rs 1,600 crore a piece as against the Rs 526 crore for each aircraft fixed by the Congress-led UPA government.

Rahul Gandhi's comments came on a day the Supreme Court said a discussion on the pricing of the Rafale jets can only take place if the facts of the deal are allowed to come into the public domain.

The apex court, which began its hearing on pleas seeking a court-monitored probe into the procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets from France, also said it would like to hear from an Air Force officer and not an official of the Defence Ministry.

"The CBI director (Alok Verma) initiated a probe in the Rafale deal. The prime minister removed him at 12 in the night. I am telling you, the day a probe will begin in Rafale deal, two names will surface: Anil Ambani and Narendra Modi," Gandhi told the gathering.

On former French president Francois Hollande's comments in French media that the Indian government had proposed Reliance Defence as a partner for Dassault Aviation in the deal and that France did not have a choice, Gandhi said Modi named Ambani's company as Dassault's partner in the Rs 58,000 crore Rafale deal, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

The Modi government chose Ambani's "inexperienced" company over the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) which has a long experience in the aerospace and defence sector, PTI quoted the Congress president.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The BJP on Wednesday launched an attack on Rahul Gandhi over his comments made during a rally in Chhattisgarh earlier in the day. Union Minister of State for external affairs VK Singh said that those who are levelling accusations over Rafale deal are "illiterate.

The BJP on Wednesday launched an attack on Rahul Gandhi over his comments made during a rally in Chhattisgarh earlier in the day. Union Minister of State for external affairs VK Singh said that those who are levelling accusations over Rafale deal are "illiterate." "Those who are making accusations are illiterate. They don't have any knowledge about it. So it won't be right to further comment on it," Singh told media. Over the involvement of Reliance group in the Rafale deal, Singh stated that the authorities from the group have already spoken on the issue and that there is no point dragging the matter, taking names, news agency ANI reported. Singh's remarks came after Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday stated that a probe into the procurement of Rafale fighter jets from France would throw up names of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Anil Ambani; Gandhi was addressing a rally in Chhattisgarh. Gandhi also claimed the NDA government bought the planes at Rs 1,600 crore a piece as against the Rs 526 crore for each aircraft fixed by the Congress-led UPA government. Rahul Gandhi's comments came on a day the Supreme Court said a discussion on the pricing of the Rafale jets can only take place if the facts of the deal are allowed to come into the public domain. The apex court, which began its hearing on pleas seeking a court-monitored probe into the procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets from France, also said it would like to hear from an Air Force officer and not an official of the Defence Ministry. "The CBI director (Alok Verma) initiated a probe in the Rafale deal. The prime minister removed him at 12 in the night. I am telling you, the day a probe will begin in Rafale deal, two names will surface: Anil Ambani and Narendra Modi," Gandhi told the gathering. On former French president Francois Hollande's comments in French media that the Indian government had proposed Reliance Defence as a partner for Dassault Aviation in the deal and that France did not have a choice, Gandhi said Modi named Ambani's company as Dassault's partner in the Rs 58,000 crore Rafale deal, news agency PTI reported. The Modi government chose Ambani's "inexperienced" company over the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) which has a long experience in the aerospace and defence sector, PTI quoted the Congress president. (With inputs from agencies)

Those making accusations over Rafale deal are 'ílliterate': Union Minister VK Singh

A probe into the procurement of Rafale fighter jets from France would throw up names of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Anil Ambani, Congress president Rahul Gandhi said Wednesday.

Addressing a campaign rally here for the second phase of Assembly polls, Gandhi also claimed the NDA government bought the planes at Rs 1,600 crore a piece as against the Rs 526 crore for each aircraft fixed by the Congress-led UPA government.

Gandhi's comments came on a day the Supreme Court said a discussion on the pricing of the Rafale jets can only take place if the facts of the deal are allowed to come into the public domain.

The apex court, which began its hearing on pleas seeking a court-monitored probe into the procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets from France, also said it would like to hear from an Air Force officer and not an official of the Defence Ministry.

"The CBI director (Alok Verma) initiated a probe in the Rafale deal. The prime minister removed him at 12 in the night. I am telling you, the day a probe will begin in Rafale deal, two names will surface: Anil Ambani and Narendra Modi," Gandhi told the gathering.

On former French president Francois Hollande's comments in French media that the Indian government had proposed Reliance Defence as partner for Dassault Aviation in the deal and that France did not have a choice, Gandhi said Modi named Ambani's company as Dassault's partner in the Rs 58,000 crore Rafale deal.

The Modi government chose Ambani's "inexperienced" company over the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) which has a long experience in aerospace and defence sector, Gandhi said.

There was no reaction from the government or the BJP on the fresh charges, though they have previously rejected all allegations over the Rafale deal.

On demonetisation, Gandhi said the poor suffered due to the move and that no billionaire or "thieves with black money" had to queue up outside banks to exchange notes after the old Rs 500 and Rs 1000 currency notes were declared invalid by Modi on November 8, 2016.

Gandhi termed demonetisation as the "biggest scam" of the country.

"There has been no bigger scam than this (note ban). The truth will come out. It will be proved that Modi made the move to snatch money from the poor and put it in the pockets of thieves like Nirav Modi, Anil Ambani and Mehul Choksi," he said.

Terming the prime minister as corrupt, Gandhi accused him of not taking action against Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh's son Abhishek, whose name he said figured in the Panama Papers.

Invoking his family ties with the state, the Congress chief said the relationship was of love and not politics.

"We have old ties with you. Jawaharlal Nehruji, Indiraji, Rajivji, Soniaji had family ties with Chhattisgarh. It was a relationship of love and not politics," he said.

He accused the BJP-led state government of forcibly acquiring lands of farmers, adding the Congress, if elected to power, would not snatch land from peasants.

The Congress president also promised to install a "people's government" in Chhattisgarh and accused the ruling BJP of destroying the state in its 15-year rule.

The state was among the richest in the country in terms of water, forest, mines and minerals but its people have remained poor due to the policies of the BJP government, he said.

Lands of locals in the tribal-dominated state were taken away to set up industries, he said. But when the units were not set up, the lands were not returned, he added.

Polling for the second phase in 72 seats, out of the total 90-member Assembly, will take place on November 20 and the counting of votes will be held on December 11.&nbsp;

A probe into the procurement of Rafale fighter jets from France would throw up names of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Anil Ambani, Congress president Rahul Gandhi said Wednesday.

A probe into the procurement of Rafale fighter jets from France would throw up names of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Anil Ambani, Congress president Rahul Gandhi said Wednesday. Addressing a campaign rally here for the second phase of Assembly polls, Gandhi also claimed the NDA government bought the planes at Rs 1,600 crore a piece as against the Rs 526 crore for each aircraft fixed by the Congress-led UPA government. Gandhi's comments came on a day the Supreme Court said a discussion on the pricing of the Rafale jets can only take place if the facts of the deal are allowed to come into the public domain. The apex court, which began its hearing on pleas seeking a court-monitored probe into the procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets from France, also said it would like to hear from an Air Force officer and not an official of the Defence Ministry. "The CBI director (Alok Verma) initiated a probe in the Rafale deal. The prime minister removed him at 12 in the night. I am telling you, the day a probe will begin in Rafale deal, two names will surface: Anil Ambani and Narendra Modi," Gandhi told the gathering. On former French president Francois Hollande's comments in French media that the Indian government had proposed Reliance Defence as partner for Dassault Aviation in the deal and that France did not have a choice, Gandhi said Modi named Ambani's company as Dassault's partner in the Rs 58,000 crore Rafale deal. The Modi government chose Ambani's "inexperienced" company over the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) which has a long experience in aerospace and defence sector, Gandhi said. There was no reaction from the government or the BJP on the fresh charges, though they have previously rejected all allegations over the Rafale deal. On demonetisation, Gandhi said the poor suffered due to the move and that no billionaire or "thieves with black money" had to queue up outside banks to exchange notes after the old Rs 500 and Rs 1000 currency notes were declared invalid by Modi on November 8, 2016. Gandhi termed demonetisation as the "biggest scam" of the country. "There has been no bigger scam than this (note ban). The truth will come out. It will be proved that Modi made the move to snatch money from the poor and put it in the pockets of thieves like Nirav Modi, Anil Ambani and Mehul Choksi," he said. Terming the prime minister as corrupt, Gandhi accused him of not taking action against Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh's son Abhishek, whose name he said figured in the Panama Papers. Invoking his family ties with the state, the Congress chief said the relationship was of love and not politics. "We have old ties with you. Jawaharlal Nehruji, Indiraji, Rajivji, Soniaji had family ties with Chhattisgarh. It was a relationship of love and not politics," he said. He accused the BJP-led state government of forcibly acquiring lands of farmers, adding the Congress, if elected to power, would not snatch land from peasants. The Congress president also promised to install a "people's government" in Chhattisgarh and accused the ruling BJP of destroying the state in its 15-year rule. The state was among the richest in the country in terms of water, forest, mines and minerals but its people have remained poor due to the policies of the BJP government, he said. Lands of locals in the tribal-dominated state were taken away to set up industries, he said. But when the units were not set up, the lands were not returned, he added. Polling for the second phase in 72 seats, out of the total 90-member Assembly, will take place on November 20 and the counting of votes will be held on December 11.

Rafale probe will throw up names of Modi, Ambani: Rahul Gandhi

Dassault CEO Eric Trappier responds to Rahul Gandhi on Dassault-Reliance joint venture

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday launched a diatribe against <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/gulberg-massacre-supreme-court-to-hear-plea-challenging-clean-chit-given-to-pm-modi-177080">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>, accusing him of "misleading" people on India's development.

Addressing a rally in Baloda Bazar ahead of the second phase of polling in Chhattisgarh on November 20, Gandhi said as per Modi, development of the country began only after 2014, when he became the prime minister.

"He (Modi) doesn't even know that the country is run by the people and not by a single man. He insults you by making such comments," the Congress president said.

Demonetisation and implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) was aimed to break the back of small and medium businesses, Gandhi said. Congress will encourage youth to do business and get loan facility from banks, he added.

The Congress is not against big industrialists, but if government gives them benefit, small and medium business should not be neglected, he said.

"Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi, Vijay Mallya fled the country with thousands of crores of rupees belonging to the people of India. PM Modi does nothing to bring them back to the country and doesn't utter a word on the issue," he said.

He claimed the CBI director was removed from his post at 1am to stop a probe into the Rafale deal. "If there is an investigation, only two names will come up: Narendra Modi and Anil Ambani. Modi is scared of a probe," he said.

Gandhi claimed Anil Ambani was chosen over HAL for the Rafale deal despite HAL having 70 years experience in manufacturing fighter aircraft.

"Anil Ambani didn't have the experience. He may not have made even a paper aeroplane," he said.

Gandhi said there is an undercurrent in favour of the Congress in the 18 constituencies of Chhattisgarh which went to polls Monday.

Results from Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and other poll-bound states will go in favour of the Congress, he said.

Chhattisgarh is rich in resources, the Congress president said, adding the "dream of the state was broken due to the misrule" of the BJP government.

Promising a "people's government" in Chhattisgarh if voted to power, he said people want a government which listens to their "Mann ki Baat".

"Instead of working for a few industrialists, Congress will work for development of agriculture, education and health in the state," Gandhi said.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday launched a diatribe against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of "misleading" people on India's development. Addressing a rally in Baloda Bazar ahead of the second phase of polling in Chhattisgarh on November 20, Gandhi said as per Modi, development of the country began only after 2014, when he became the prime minister.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday launched a diatribe against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of "misleading" people on India's development. Addressing a rally in Baloda Bazar ahead of the second phase of polling in Chhattisgarh on November 20, Gandhi said as per Modi, development of the country began only after 2014, when he became the prime minister. "He (Modi) doesn't even know that the country is run by the people and not by a single man. He insults you by making such comments," the Congress president said. Demonetisation and implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) was aimed to break the back of small and medium businesses, Gandhi said. Congress will encourage youth to do business and get loan facility from banks, he added. The Congress is not against big industrialists, but if government gives them benefit, small and medium business should not be neglected, he said. "Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi, Vijay Mallya fled the country with thousands of crores of rupees belonging to the people of India. PM Modi does nothing to bring them back to the country and doesn't utter a word on the issue," he said. He claimed the CBI director was removed from his post at 1am to stop a probe into the Rafale deal. "If there is an investigation, only two names will come up: Narendra Modi and Anil Ambani. Modi is scared of a probe," he said. Gandhi claimed Anil Ambani was chosen over HAL for the Rafale deal despite HAL having 70 years experience in manufacturing fighter aircraft. "Anil Ambani didn't have the experience. He may not have made even a paper aeroplane," he said. Gandhi said there is an undercurrent in favour of the Congress in the 18 constituencies of Chhattisgarh which went to polls Monday. Results from Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and other poll-bound states will go in favour of the Congress, he said. Chhattisgarh is rich in resources, the Congress president said, adding the "dream of the state was broken due to the misrule" of the BJP government. Promising a "people's government" in Chhattisgarh if voted to power, he said people want a government which listens to their "Mann ki Baat". "Instead of working for a few industrialists, Congress will work for development of agriculture, education and health in the state," Gandhi said.

Modi doesn't know country run by people, not by one man: Rahul Gandhi

The Supreme Court Tuesday fixed December 4 for final arguments in the petitions filed by Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and his mother Sonia Gandhi challenging the Delhi High Court's order related to a case of re-opening of their 2011-12 tax assessments.

The high court had refused to give them relief in the case, giving the opportunity to the Income Tax (I-T) Department to scrutinise their records.

The Supreme Court did not issue any notice on their petitions as the I-T department was represented by its counsel.

The department had filed a caveat in the apex court that it should be heard if any appeal is filed against the high court order.

A caveat is a legal procedure by which an application is filed by any party to the litigation to pre-empt an ex-parte order.

After a brief hearing, a bench comprising justices A K Sikri and S A Abdul Nazeer said, "Since the respondent (I-T department) has put in an appearance, we are not issuing a formal notice. However, we are fixing the matter for final arguments on December 4."&nbsp;

The appeals were filed by Rahul, Sonia and veteran Congress leader Oscar Fernandes. They have challenged the September 10 verdict of the high court.

The income tax matter against the Congress leaders is linked to the National Herald case in which they are also facing a criminal case.

Senior advocates P Chidambaram, Kapil Sibal and Arvind Datar appeared for the Congress leaders.&nbsp;

When Chidambaram tried to make a submission by narrating the backgrounds leading to the income tax case, the bench said, "We are not concerned with the background but the question here is about the notice (issued by the I-T department) of the reassessment of income tax. The issue is whether the notice is valid or not".&nbsp;

At the outset, the bench was of the view that the Gandhis can raise the issue before the assessing officer.&nbsp;

However, Chidambaram said the question is about the income tax notice to them and it has to be determined whether it is correct or not.&nbsp;

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the I-T department, said the premise raised by the Gandhis and Fernandes is wrong.&nbsp;But, the bench said the issues raised in the petitions requires consideration. During the hearing, the bench also said there are two options.&nbsp;

"We will issue notice but we will say that assessing officer will proceed with the assessment. However, the final decision will not be given effect to and be placed before this court.&nbsp;

"The second option is we will hear the matter after two weeks and you all can assist us. The high court judgment is lengthy", the bench said.&nbsp;

On September 10, the Gandhis had failed to get any relief from the Delhi High Court which dismissed their challenge on reopening of their tax assessments for 2011-12.

Denial of any relief by the high court had paved the way for the I-T department to scrutinise the Congress leaders records for the assessment year.

"...The assessees' rights to urge them are reserved in the income tax proceedings," the high court had said, while "dismissing" the three separate petitions filed by Gandhis and Fernandes, which were decided through a common order.

The income tax probe against the Congress leaders has arisen from the investigation into the private criminal complaint filed by BJP leader Subramanian Swamy before a trial court in connection with the National Herald case, in which the trio is out on bail.

Sonia and Rahul were granted bail in the case by the trial court on December 19, 2015.

A tax evasion petition (TEP) was also addressed to the finance minister by Swamy.

In the complaint before the trial court, Sonia, Rahul and others have been accused of conspiring to cheat and misappropriate funds by paying just Rs 50 lakh, through which Young Indian (YI), a not-for-profit organisation, had obtained the right to recover Rs 90.25 crore that the Associated Journals Ltd (AJL) owed to the Congress party.

It was alleged that YI, which was incorporated in November 2010 with a capital of Rs 50 lakh, had acquired almost all shareholdings of the AJL, which was running the National Herald newspaper.

In this process, YI had also acquired AJL's debt of Rs 90 crore.

The tax department had said the shares Rahul has in YI would lead him to have an income of Rs 154 crore and not about Rs 68 lakh, as was assessed earlier.

It has already issued a demand notice for Rs 249.15 crore to YI for the assessment year 2011-12.

The department's move followed its probe on a complaint alleging that the Gandhis had misappropriated AJL's assets while transferring their shares to the newly formed YI.

The high court had noted in its order that the premise of the reassessment notices was that the non-disclosure of the taxing event-- allotment of shares of YI-- deprived the assessing officer of the opportunity to look into the records.

It had said that in Rahul's case, the non-disclosure of share acquisition constituted tangible material justifying reassessment.

In case of Sonia and Oscar, the bench said returns filed by them were processed under Section 143(1) of the Income Tax Act, which pertains to 'Notice or intimation', and are not treated as "assessments".

The Supreme Court Tuesday fixed December 4 for final arguments in the petitions filed by Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and his mother Sonia Gandhi challenging the Delhi High Court's order related to a case of re-opening of their 2011-12 tax assessments.

The Supreme Court Tuesday fixed December 4 for final arguments in the petitions filed by Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and his mother Sonia Gandhi challenging the Delhi High Court's order related to a case of re-opening of their 2011-12 tax assessments. The high court had refused to give them relief in the case, giving the opportunity to the Income Tax (I-T) Department to scrutinise their records. The Supreme Court did not issue any notice on their petitions as the I-T department was represented by its counsel. The department had filed a caveat in the apex court that it should be heard if any appeal is filed against the high court order. A caveat is a legal procedure by which an application is filed by any party to the litigation to pre-empt an ex-parte order. After a brief hearing, a bench comprising justices A K Sikri and S A Abdul Nazeer said, "Since the respondent (I-T department) has put in an appearance, we are not issuing a formal notice. However, we are fixing the matter for final arguments on December 4." The appeals were filed by Rahul, Sonia and veteran Congress leader Oscar Fernandes. They have challenged the September 10 verdict of the high court. The income tax matter against the Congress leaders is linked to the National Herald case in which they are also facing a criminal case. Senior advocates P Chidambaram, Kapil Sibal and Arvind Datar appeared for the Congress leaders. When Chidambaram tried to make a submission by narrating the backgrounds leading to the income tax case, the bench said, "We are not concerned with the background but the question here is about the notice (issued by the I-T department) of the reassessment of income tax. The issue is whether the notice is valid or not". At the outset, the bench was of the view that the Gandhis can raise the issue before the assessing officer. However, Chidambaram said the question is about the income tax notice to them and it has to be determined whether it is correct or not. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the I-T department, said the premise raised by the Gandhis and Fernandes is wrong. But, the bench said the issues raised in the petitions requires consideration. During the hearing, the bench also said there are two options. "We will issue notice but we will say that assessing officer will proceed with the assessment. However, the final decision will not be given effect to and be placed before this court. "The second option is we will hear the matter after two weeks and you all can assist us. The high court judgment is lengthy", the bench said. On September 10, the Gandhis had failed to get any relief from the Delhi High Court which dismissed their challenge on reopening of their tax assessments for 2011-12. Denial of any relief by the high court had paved the way for the I-T department to scrutinise the Congress leaders records for the assessment year. "...The assessees' rights to urge them are reserved in the income tax proceedings," the high court had said, while "dismissing" the three separate petitions filed by Gandhis and Fernandes, which were decided through a common order. The income tax probe against the Congress leaders has arisen from the investigation into the private criminal complaint filed by BJP leader Subramanian Swamy before a trial court in connection with the National Herald case, in which the trio is out on bail. Sonia and Rahul were granted bail in the case by the trial court on December 19, 2015. A tax evasion petition (TEP) was also addressed to the finance minister by Swamy. In the complaint before the trial court, Sonia, Rahul and others have been accused of conspiring to cheat and misappropriate funds by paying just Rs 50 lakh, through which Young Indian (YI), a not-for-profit organisation, had obtained the right to recover Rs 90.25 crore that the Associated Journals Ltd (AJL) owed to the Congress party. It was alleged that YI, which was incorporated in November 2010 with a capital of Rs 50 lakh, had acquired almost all shareholdings of the AJL, which was running the National Herald newspaper. In this process, YI had also acquired AJL's debt of Rs 90 crore. The tax department had said the shares Rahul has in YI would lead him to have an income of Rs 154 crore and not about Rs 68 lakh, as was assessed earlier. It has already issued a demand notice for Rs 249.15 crore to YI for the assessment year 2011-12. The department's move followed its probe on a complaint alleging that the Gandhis had misappropriated AJL's assets while transferring their shares to the newly formed YI. The high court had noted in its order that the premise of the reassessment notices was that the non-disclosure of the taxing event-- allotment of shares of YI-- deprived the assessing officer of the opportunity to look into the records. It had said that in Rahul's case, the non-disclosure of share acquisition constituted tangible material justifying reassessment. In case of Sonia and Oscar, the bench said returns filed by them were processed under Section 143(1) of the Income Tax Act, which pertains to 'Notice or intimation', and are not treated as "assessments".

SC to hear final arguments in IT case against Rahul, Sonia on December 4

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Tuesday attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi over demonetisation, saying he snatched money from the poor and put it in the pockets of the likes of Nirav Modi and Vijay Mallya.

Addressing a rally here ahead of the second phase of polling in the state on November 20, Gandhi said Modi helped "all the thieves of India turn their black money into white".

Gandhi also charged the Modi government with ensuring benefit to Anil Ambani's company through the Rafale aircraft deal.

The Modi-led government "snatched" Rs 30,000 crore from the poor and gave it to the industrialist, Gandhi added.

Hitting out at Rahul and Sonia Gandhi for questioning him on demonetisation, Modi had Monday said in a poll rally he did not need a "certificate of honesty" from the "mother-son duo" who are out on bail.

The Congress president claimed only the poor had to queue up outside banks to exchange notes after the prime minister announced invalidation of the old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes on November 8, 2016. Gandhi said no person in "suit-boot" had queued up outside banks then.

"Narendra Modi snatched money from under the pillows of our mothers and sisters and put it in the pockets of likes of Nirav Modi, Vijay Mallya, Lalit Modi and Anil Ambani," Gandhi said.

He accused the prime minister of not speaking up about demonetisation for two years till he made a "single line remark" on Monday.

The Modi government wrote off Rs 3.5 lakh crore debt of the rich, Gandhi said. "Nirav Modi, Vijay Mallya, Mehul Choksi ran away. Not a single word came from Narendra Modi's mouth," he said.

On the Rafale fighter jet deal, Gandhi reiterated the NDA government "changed the contract to help Anil Ambani get it instead of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)."

"It was your (people's) money, snatched from your pockets and that Rs 30,000 crore of yours Narendra Modi gave to Anil Ambani," Gandhi said.

The Congress president also claimed that the CBI director was removed from his post at 1 am to stop a probe into the Rafale deal.

"If there is an investigation, only two names will come up: Narendra Modi and Anil Ambani. Modi is scared of a probe," he said.

He also accused the BJP-led governments of stealing people's money daily by "outsourcing works through RSS men".

"In Delhi, the 'chowkidar' (Modi) is ensuring theft. And here (in Chhattisgarh), Doctor Sahib (Chief Minister Raman Singh) is ensuring theft. We will end outsourcing once the Congress comes to power," he said.

Gandhi also launched a diatribe against the prime minister for "misleading" people on India's development.

According to Modi, development of the country began only after 2014, when he became the prime minister, Gandhi said.

"He (Modi) doesn't even know that the country is run by the people and not by a single man. He insults you by making such comments," the Congress president said.

The Congress would write off Chhattisgarh farmers' debt within 10 days of coming to power and give free medical treatment and medicines to people of the state, he said.

The prime minister made a "false" promise of generating two crore jobs a year, Gandhi said. A Congress chief minister would work "for 18 out of 24 hours" to generate employment for the state's youth, he added.

"Instead of working for a few industrialists, Congress will work for development of agriculture, education and health in the state," Gandhi said.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Tuesday attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi over demonetisation, saying he snatched money from the poor and put it in the pockets of the likes of Nirav Modi and Vijay Mallya.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Tuesday attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi over demonetisation, saying he snatched money from the poor and put it in the pockets of the likes of Nirav Modi and Vijay Mallya. Addressing a rally here ahead of the second phase of polling in the state on November 20, Gandhi said Modi helped "all the thieves of India turn their black money into white". Gandhi also charged the Modi government with ensuring benefit to Anil Ambani's company through the Rafale aircraft deal. The Modi-led government "snatched" Rs 30,000 crore from the poor and gave it to the industrialist, Gandhi added. Hitting out at Rahul and Sonia Gandhi for questioning him on demonetisation, Modi had Monday said in a poll rally he did not need a "certificate of honesty" from the "mother-son duo" who are out on bail. The Congress president claimed only the poor had to queue up outside banks to exchange notes after the prime minister announced invalidation of the old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes on November 8, 2016. Gandhi said no person in "suit-boot" had queued up outside banks then. "Narendra Modi snatched money from under the pillows of our mothers and sisters and put it in the pockets of likes of Nirav Modi, Vijay Mallya, Lalit Modi and Anil Ambani," Gandhi said. He accused the prime minister of not speaking up about demonetisation for two years till he made a "single line remark" on Monday. The Modi government wrote off Rs 3.5 lakh crore debt of the rich, Gandhi said. "Nirav Modi, Vijay Mallya, Mehul Choksi ran away. Not a single word came from Narendra Modi's mouth," he said. On the Rafale fighter jet deal, Gandhi reiterated the NDA government "changed the contract to help Anil Ambani get it instead of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)." "It was your (people's) money, snatched from your pockets and that Rs 30,000 crore of yours Narendra Modi gave to Anil Ambani," Gandhi said. The Congress president also claimed that the CBI director was removed from his post at 1 am to stop a probe into the Rafale deal. "If there is an investigation, only two names will come up: Narendra Modi and Anil Ambani. Modi is scared of a probe," he said. He also accused the BJP-led governments of stealing people's money daily by "outsourcing works through RSS men". "In Delhi, the 'chowkidar' (Modi) is ensuring theft. And here (in Chhattisgarh), Doctor Sahib (Chief Minister Raman Singh) is ensuring theft. We will end outsourcing once the Congress comes to power," he said. Gandhi also launched a diatribe against the prime minister for "misleading" people on India's development. According to Modi, development of the country began only after 2014, when he became the prime minister, Gandhi said. "He (Modi) doesn't even know that the country is run by the people and not by a single man. He insults you by making such comments," the Congress president said. The Congress would write off Chhattisgarh farmers' debt within 10 days of coming to power and give free medical treatment and medicines to people of the state, he said. The prime minister made a "false" promise of generating two crore jobs a year, Gandhi said. A Congress chief minister would work "for 18 out of 24 hours" to generate employment for the state's youth, he added. "Instead of working for a few industrialists, Congress will work for development of agriculture, education and health in the state," Gandhi said.

Note ban hurt poor, benefited rich: Rahul Gandhi in Chhattisgarh

Ahead of elections in the world's largest democracy, Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey Monday paid his maiden visit to India where he vowed to check spread of fake news but said there is no "one fix" solution for the "multi-variable" problem.

Twitter -- which counts India among its priority markets -- has a large number of politicians in the country on its platform, who engage with residents and extensively use it around elections.

"In a number of conversations, it's become more important that we scope the problem as tightly as possible because fake news or misinformation as a category is way too big," he said addressing a townhall at the IIT-Delhi.

He added that if certain content is found to be misleading, it is the company's job to ensure that such information is picked out and prevented from spreading.

"...If the intent (of the content) is to mislead, we need to understand and pick out this information and then it's our job to ensure it doesn't spread and our job is to ensure it doesn't gain the impressions beyond its given reach," he said.

Dorsey, who met Congress President Rahul Gandhi earlier in the day, pointed out that it was also important to understand the intent and context of the information to address the issue of fake news and misinformation.

"This is a multi-variable problem and there is not going to be one fix, it's like security. No one can build a perfect lock that no one can break," he said, adding that like with security, the company will have to stay ahead of those spreading misinformation.

Dorsey said Artificial Intelligence could help build a solution that may be near perfect.

Social media firms have been facing the menace of rumours and fake news floating on their platforms. Organisations like Facebook and WhatsApp have taken a number of steps, including sensitisation programmes among users across the country.

More recently, WhatsApp - which drew flak from the government over the circulation of certain fake and sinister messages that incited mob-fury in different parts of the country - has initiated measures to curb the circulation of misinformation on its platform.

Dorsey cited the example of a tweet on its platform, posted ahead of the 2016 Presidential elections in the US, that said voters could register themselves on the shortcode provided in the tweet.

In this case, the number of tweets flagging the said content as fake was 10 times that the original message.

The top executive, who arrived in India last week tweeted: "(my first time here after a lifetime of wanting to experience it). He visited Jaipur and also met the Dalai Lama, called him an "amazing teacher".

Twitter Monday also launched its '#PowerOf18' initiative aimed at encouraging Indian youth to contribute to public debate and participate in civic engagement in the upcoming election season.

According to a survey conducted by Twitter India, voting rights emerged as the top response when asked what people would consider the power of turning 18 years old.

The research, conducted with over 3,600 respondents aged 18-30-year-olds, found 94 per cent respondents indicating that they would vote in the upcoming elections, while 87 per cent said they believed that voting made them a responsible citizen.

About 53 per cent said they are voting because they want to make a difference.

The study also pointed towards the increasing importance of social media for information consumption as 69 per cent of Twitter users surveyed said they always stay up to date with political news and events versus 44 per cent of non-Twitter users.

Ahead of elections in the world's largest democracy, Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey Monday paid his maiden visit to India where he vowed to check spread of fake news but said there is no "one fix" solution for the "multi-variable" problem.

Ahead of elections in the world's largest democracy, Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey Monday paid his maiden visit to India where he vowed to check spread of fake news but said there is no "one fix" solution for the "multi-variable" problem. Twitter -- which counts India among its priority markets -- has a large number of politicians in the country on its platform, who engage with residents and extensively use it around elections. "In a number of conversations, it's become more important that we scope the problem as tightly as possible because fake news or misinformation as a category is way too big," he said addressing a townhall at the IIT-Delhi. He added that if certain content is found to be misleading, it is the company's job to ensure that such information is picked out and prevented from spreading. "...If the intent (of the content) is to mislead, we need to understand and pick out this information and then it's our job to ensure it doesn't spread and our job is to ensure it doesn't gain the impressions beyond its given reach," he said. Dorsey, who met Congress President Rahul Gandhi earlier in the day, pointed out that it was also important to understand the intent and context of the information to address the issue of fake news and misinformation. "This is a multi-variable problem and there is not going to be one fix, it's like security. No one can build a perfect lock that no one can break," he said, adding that like with security, the company will have to stay ahead of those spreading misinformation. Dorsey said Artificial Intelligence could help build a solution that may be near perfect. Social media firms have been facing the menace of rumours and fake news floating on their platforms. Organisations like Facebook and WhatsApp have taken a number of steps, including sensitisation programmes among users across the country. More recently, WhatsApp - which drew flak from the government over the circulation of certain fake and sinister messages that incited mob-fury in different parts of the country - has initiated measures to curb the circulation of misinformation on its platform. Dorsey cited the example of a tweet on its platform, posted ahead of the 2016 Presidential elections in the US, that said voters could register themselves on the shortcode provided in the tweet. In this case, the number of tweets flagging the said content as fake was 10 times that the original message. The top executive, who arrived in India last week tweeted: "(my first time here after a lifetime of wanting to experience it). He visited Jaipur and also met the Dalai Lama, called him an "amazing teacher". Twitter Monday also launched its '#PowerOf18' initiative aimed at encouraging Indian youth to contribute to public debate and participate in civic engagement in the upcoming election season. According to a survey conducted by Twitter India, voting rights emerged as the top response when asked what people would consider the power of turning 18 years old. The research, conducted with over 3,600 respondents aged 18-30-year-olds, found 94 per cent respondents indicating that they would vote in the upcoming elections, while 87 per cent said they believed that voting made them a responsible citizen. About 53 per cent said they are voting because they want to make a difference. The study also pointed towards the increasing importance of social media for information consumption as 69 per cent of Twitter users surveyed said they always stay up to date with political news and events versus 44 per cent of non-Twitter users.

Fake news a multi-variable problem, there is no 'one fix': Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey in India

Former Congress President Sonia Gandhi will campaign in Telangana on November 23, reported news agency ANI.&nbsp;

The Congress leader will address a rally in Warangal during the campaign, the report added.&nbsp;

Similarly, Congress president Rahul Gandhi will campaign in Telangana's Mahbubnagar and Khammam on November 28, 29, the report added. &nbsp;

Telangana Assembly polls will be held on December 7.&nbsp;

Telangana Chief Electoral Officer Rajat Kumar on Saturday said that the filing of nominations will start from November 12.&nbsp;

Telangana will go to polls on December 7.

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao dissolved the Assembly on September 6 and called for early state elections. &nbsp;

Former Congress President Sonia Gandhi will campaign in Telangana on November 23, reported news agency ANI. The Congress leader will address a rally in Warangal during the campaign, the report added.

Former Congress President Sonia Gandhi will campaign in Telangana on November 23, reported news agency ANI. The Congress leader will address a rally in Warangal during the campaign, the report added. Similarly, Congress president Rahul Gandhi will campaign in Telangana's Mahbubnagar and Khammam on November 28, 29, the report added. Telangana Assembly polls will be held on December 7. Telangana Chief Electoral Officer Rajat Kumar on Saturday said that the filing of nominations will start from November 12. Telangana will go to polls on December 7. Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao dissolved the Assembly on September 6 and called for early state elections.

Sonia Gandhi to campaign in Telangana on November 23

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday promised all-loan waiver to poor farmers within 10 days of forming the government if voted to power in Chattisgarh.

Gandhi, who was addressing a rally at Kanker, said: "It is my firm assurance to you that if the Congress emerges victorious in the ensuing Assembly polls, our government will waive off all loans of poor farmers within 10 days."

He also said that the Congress government would give Rs 2,500 to every farmer for harvesting his paddy crop.

"We will not only waive off farmers'&nbsp;within 10 days of coming to power but will also give Rs 2,500 to each farmer for harvesting and sowing paddy. Congress government will also give bonus to farmers. In case they have not received any bonus from the past two years, we will compensate them accordingly," he said.

Gandhi also touched upon the issue of unemployment and promised that after coming to power, his government will work day and night to set up food processing factories in every block and district of the state to ease the life of farmers in selling their produces.

"Congress government will ensure farmers get right price for their produces. We will set up food processing factories in all districts and blocks. From these factories, not only you will get the correct price for your crops but your children will also get employment in these factories," said Rahul in a bid to woo farmers, who play a key role in the state politics.

"It has been 15 years that Dr Raman Singh has been in power in the state. As on to date, more than 40 lakh people are unemployed in the region and around 65 per cent of the land has not been irrigated. Moreover, 75,000 acres of land have also been taken away from the tribal people and given to the close aides of the government," he claimed.

He said his mission is to make Chhattisgarh an agricultural state like Punjab and Haryana within five years.Talking about the issue of development, the Congress president tore into the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre and claimed that the Centre failed to fulfill its promise of creating two crore jobs every year and created only fewer jobs for the youths.

"I have a vision. I want that Chhattisgarh youths must be given loans so that they can set up their own factories and create employment in the state," he added.

"If one looks closely, China within a span of 24 hours gives employment to more than 50,000 people but Modi ji is only providing employment to 450 people per hour as all the money, nearly Rs 12,50,000 crore, has been given to his 15 friends. Modi ji only believes in 15 people but I believe in crores of people," he added.

Gandhi also promised the gathering that his government would put an end to the outsourcing of labour works in the state and will first provide employment opportunity to the poor people of Chhattisgarh.

"Each family in the village who does not possess any property will be given a piece of land," he added.

While training guns at the Central government, Rahul Gandhi claimed that more than 60,000 seats of teachers are lying vacant in the state and they will make efforts to fill them fast after coming to power.

Talking about the decades old-MNREGA programme, the Congress president alleged that the Narendra Modi-led government has spent Rs 35,000 crore for the implementation of the scheme but still failed to provide any relief to the poor.

"All of that money has been distributed among his friends like Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi and Lalit Modi."

Speaking about the menace of corruption prevailing in the state, the 48-year-old leader alleged that Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Dr Raman Singh was himself corrupt. He also pointed fingers at the state government for not initiating any investigation against the Dr Singh's son after his name appeared in the Panama Papers case.

"Whenever Modi ji goes somewhere, he claims that his government is against the menace of corruption. But after coming to Chhattisgarh, he does not mention that the chief minister is also a corrupt man. The state CM should explain to the people of Chhattisgarh why has no action been taken against his son, whose name appeared in the Panama papers case? In Pakistan the PM is jailed because his name appeared in Panama Papers case," he said.

Rahul also mentioned about the famous Public Distribution System scam and stated that Rs 36,000 crore from the people of Chhattisgarh was looted.

"I want Raman Singh ji to answer who are this CM Madam and Dr Sahab whose names were found in the diary in connection with the scam."Gandhi scion said that his party will not work for any particular religion, community, caste or a district but for all.

He also added that as soon as the Congress comes to power in the state, they will build schools, colleges, and hospitals and will also uplift the status of poor in the society by implementing 'Paisa Kanoon,'&nbsp;Tribal Bill and Real Estate Law.

The first phase of elections in Chhattisgarh comprises 18 seats and these are distributed in eight Naxal-affected districts.

Of these, 12 are Scheduled Tribe seats while one is a Scheduled Caste-reserved seat. The polling for remaining 72 seats will take place on November 20.

The counting of votes will take place on December 11. A total of 1,291 candidates are in the fray for the two-phased state polls.

In the 2013 assembly elections, the BJP had bagged 49 seats, Congress got 39, Bahujan Samajwadi Party and Independent got one seat each in the 90-member House.&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday promised all-loan waiver to poor farmers within 10 days of forming the government if voted to power in Chattisgarh. Gandhi, who was addressing a rally at Kanker, said: "It is my firm assurance to you that if the Congress emerges victorious in the ensuing Assembly polls, our government will waive off all loans of poor farmers within 10 days.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday promised all-loan waiver to poor farmers within 10 days of forming the government if voted to power in Chattisgarh. Gandhi, who was addressing a rally at Kanker, said: "It is my firm assurance to you that if the Congress emerges victorious in the ensuing Assembly polls, our government will waive off all loans of poor farmers within 10 days." He also said that the Congress government would give Rs 2,500 to every farmer for harvesting his paddy crop. "We will not only waive off farmers' within 10 days of coming to power but will also give Rs 2,500 to each farmer for harvesting and sowing paddy. Congress government will also give bonus to farmers. In case they have not received any bonus from the past two years, we will compensate them accordingly," he said. Gandhi also touched upon the issue of unemployment and promised that after coming to power, his government will work day and night to set up food processing factories in every block and district of the state to ease the life of farmers in selling their produces. "Congress government will ensure farmers get right price for their produces. We will set up food processing factories in all districts and blocks. From these factories, not only you will get the correct price for your crops but your children will also get employment in these factories," said Rahul in a bid to woo farmers, who play a key role in the state politics. "It has been 15 years that Dr Raman Singh has been in power in the state. As on to date, more than 40 lakh people are unemployed in the region and around 65 per cent of the land has not been irrigated. Moreover, 75,000 acres of land have also been taken away from the tribal people and given to the close aides of the government," he claimed. He said his mission is to make Chhattisgarh an agricultural state like Punjab and Haryana within five years.Talking about the issue of development, the Congress president tore into the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre and claimed that the Centre failed to fulfill its promise of creating two crore jobs every year and created only fewer jobs for the youths. "I have a vision. I want that Chhattisgarh youths must be given loans so that they can set up their own factories and create employment in the state," he added. "If one looks closely, China within a span of 24 hours gives employment to more than 50,000 people but Modi ji is only providing employment to 450 people per hour as all the money, nearly Rs 12,50,000 crore, has been given to his 15 friends. Modi ji only believes in 15 people but I believe in crores of people," he added. Gandhi also promised the gathering that his government would put an end to the outsourcing of labour works in the state and will first provide employment opportunity to the poor people of Chhattisgarh. "Each family in the village who does not possess any property will be given a piece of land," he added. While training guns at the Central government, Rahul Gandhi claimed that more than 60,000 seats of teachers are lying vacant in the state and they will make efforts to fill them fast after coming to power. Talking about the decades old-MNREGA programme, the Congress president alleged that the Narendra Modi-led government has spent Rs 35,000 crore for the implementation of the scheme but still failed to provide any relief to the poor. "All of that money has been distributed among his friends like Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi and Lalit Modi." Speaking about the menace of corruption prevailing in the state, the 48-year-old leader alleged that Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Dr Raman Singh was himself corrupt. He also pointed fingers at the state government for not initiating any investigation against the Dr Singh's son after his name appeared in the Panama Papers case. "Whenever Modi ji goes somewhere, he claims that his government is against the menace of corruption. But after coming to Chhattisgarh, he does not mention that the chief minister is also a corrupt man. The state CM should explain to the people of Chhattisgarh why has no action been taken against his son, whose name appeared in the Panama papers case? In Pakistan the PM is jailed because his name appeared in Panama Papers case," he said. Rahul also mentioned about the famous Public Distribution System scam and stated that Rs 36,000 crore from the people of Chhattisgarh was looted. "I want Raman Singh ji to answer who are this CM Madam and Dr Sahab whose names were found in the diary in connection with the scam."Gandhi scion said that his party will not work for any particular religion, community, caste or a district but for all. He also added that as soon as the Congress comes to power in the state, they will build schools, colleges, and hospitals and will also uplift the status of poor in the society by implementing 'Paisa Kanoon,' Tribal Bill and Real Estate Law. The first phase of elections in Chhattisgarh comprises 18 seats and these are distributed in eight Naxal-affected districts. Of these, 12 are Scheduled Tribe seats while one is a Scheduled Caste-reserved seat. The polling for remaining 72 seats will take place on November 20. The counting of votes will take place on December 11. A total of 1,291 candidates are in the fray for the two-phased state polls. In the 2013 assembly elections, the BJP had bagged 49 seats, Congress got 39, Bahujan Samajwadi Party and Independent got one seat each in the 90-member House.

If Congress emerges victorious, will waive off farmers loan within 10 days: Rahul Gandhi in Chattisgarh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi will be in Chhattisgarh Friday to campaign for the first phase of the Assembly elections in the state.&nbsp;

Modi will address a rally in Bastar district's headquarters, Jagdalpur, while Gandhi will tour the state for two days during which he will address five rallies and hold a roadshow in Chief Minister Raman Singh's constituency, Rajnandgaon.

The prime minister is scheduled to arrive at Raipur airport at 11:20 am Friday and then take a helicopter to Jagdalpur. Following the rally, he will leave for Raipur at 2 pm and then return to Delhi, a state BJP spokesperson said Thursday.

"This will be the PM's first election rally for the state Assembly polls. It will add power to the party's campaign," the spokesperson added.

Gandhi on Friday will address his first rally in Pakhanjore town of Kanker district at noon, followed by public meetings in Rajnandgaon district's Khairgarh and Dongargarh towns, and a roadshow in Rajnandgaon, said head of Congress state communication wing Shailesh Nitin Trivedi.

He will put up at Rajnandgaon for the night and on Saturday, will address rallies in Charama (Kanker district) and Kondagaon, Trivedi said, adding that the Congress chief would also chair a meeting of party workers in Jagdalpur.

Raman Singh is also scheduled to hold a roadshow in Rajnandgaon on Friday evening. He is pitted against the Congress's Karuna Shukla, niece of late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

The campaigning for the first phase will end Saturday.

The first phase on November 12 will see 18 seats of eight Naxal-affected districts go to polls. Of these, 12 are Scheduled Tribe seats while one is a Scheduled Caste-reserved seat.

The ruling BJP had lost 12 of the 18 seats in the 2013 Assembly polls.

The remaining 72 constituencies will witness polling on November 20 and counting of votes will be held on December 11.

A total of1,291 candidates are in the fray for the two-phased state polls.

In the 2013 Assembly polls, the BJP had won 49 seats, Congress 39, BSP 1 and Independent 1 in the 90-member House.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi will be in Chhattisgarh Friday to campaign for the first phase of the Assembly elections in the state.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi will be in Chhattisgarh Friday to campaign for the first phase of the Assembly elections in the state. Modi will address a rally in Bastar district's headquarters, Jagdalpur, while Gandhi will tour the state for two days during which he will address five rallies and hold a roadshow in Chief Minister Raman Singh's constituency, Rajnandgaon. The prime minister is scheduled to arrive at Raipur airport at 11:20 am Friday and then take a helicopter to Jagdalpur. Following the rally, he will leave for Raipur at 2 pm and then return to Delhi, a state BJP spokesperson said Thursday. "This will be the PM's first election rally for the state Assembly polls. It will add power to the party's campaign," the spokesperson added. Gandhi on Friday will address his first rally in Pakhanjore town of Kanker district at noon, followed by public meetings in Rajnandgaon district's Khairgarh and Dongargarh towns, and a roadshow in Rajnandgaon, said head of Congress state communication wing Shailesh Nitin Trivedi. He will put up at Rajnandgaon for the night and on Saturday, will address rallies in Charama (Kanker district) and Kondagaon, Trivedi said, adding that the Congress chief would also chair a meeting of party workers in Jagdalpur. Raman Singh is also scheduled to hold a roadshow in Rajnandgaon on Friday evening. He is pitted against the Congress's Karuna Shukla, niece of late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The campaigning for the first phase will end Saturday. The first phase on November 12 will see 18 seats of eight Naxal-affected districts go to polls. Of these, 12 are Scheduled Tribe seats while one is a Scheduled Caste-reserved seat. The ruling BJP had lost 12 of the 18 seats in the 2013 Assembly polls. The remaining 72 constituencies will witness polling on November 20 and counting of votes will be held on December 11. A total of1,291 candidates are in the fray for the two-phased state polls. In the 2013 Assembly polls, the BJP had won 49 seats, Congress 39, BSP 1 and Independent 1 in the 90-member House.

Chhattisgarh polls: PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi to campaign on Friday

The Congress has identified 5 major issues in the run-up to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections on which Congress President Rahul Gandhi will build a stark contrast between the Congress and the BJP.&nbsp;

Sources said that it will take an anti-Modi campaign to the next level. As of now a large part of Congress' campaign has been against the stated policies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

The present attempt is limited to chiselling away the halo around him built on his key decision like demonetisation, surgical strikes, GST, muscular foreign policy and anti-corruption image. But as of now, the criticism has not addressed the issue of alternative vision. Come December and it will happen.

The Congress has identified agriculture, jobs, education, health care and foreign policy as key areas. The party steps up campaigns on these keys areas once assembly elections in five states conclude. The campaign will include interviews by Rahul Gandhi apart from massive social media interface. These subjects have been identified as areas which require massive transformation and through them, the Congress will give an alternative to Narendra Modi’s vision on these subjects.

Sources say that the work on these five areas has already started and meetings with stakeholders are being done in a phased manner. The party has also decided to focus more on smaller target groups like colleges and create mini-events that are more intimate and conversational. To put forward these views, the party is also in the exercise to identify strong credible voices for the national campaign in run up to the Lok Sabha elections. “Everything cannot depend on Rahul Gandhi and he cannot be everywhere,” said a person involved in the project.

&nbsp;This focus has been accompanied by a vibrant social media strategy. The Congress is also working to target new voters and women as specific constituencies. To this effect, Rahul Gandhi’s team has utilized both Facebook and Twitter intensively. It was for this reason that Rahul Gandhi’s Facebook engagement has increased dramatically and his recent outing at 66 Bhog in Madhya Pradesh registered 3.2 million views.

The Congress has identified 5 major issues in the run-up to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections on which Congress President Rahul Gandhi will build a stark contrast between the Congress and the BJP.

The Congress has identified 5 major issues in the run-up to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections on which Congress President Rahul Gandhi will build a stark contrast between the Congress and the BJP. Sources said that it will take an anti-Modi campaign to the next level. As of now a large part of Congress' campaign has been against the stated policies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The present attempt is limited to chiselling away the halo around him built on his key decision like demonetisation, surgical strikes, GST, muscular foreign policy and anti-corruption image. But as of now, the criticism has not addressed the issue of alternative vision. Come December and it will happen. The Congress has identified agriculture, jobs, education, health care and foreign policy as key areas. The party steps up campaigns on these keys areas once assembly elections in five states conclude. The campaign will include interviews by Rahul Gandhi apart from massive social media interface. These subjects have been identified as areas which require massive transformation and through them, the Congress will give an alternative to Narendra Modi’s vision on these subjects. Sources say that the work on these five areas has already started and meetings with stakeholders are being done in a phased manner. The party has also decided to focus more on smaller target groups like colleges and create mini-events that are more intimate and conversational. To put forward these views, the party is also in the exercise to identify strong credible voices for the national campaign in run up to the Lok Sabha elections. “Everything cannot depend on Rahul Gandhi and he cannot be everywhere,” said a person involved in the project. This focus has been accompanied by a vibrant social media strategy. The Congress is also working to target new voters and women as specific constituencies. To this effect, Rahul Gandhi’s team has utilized both Facebook and Twitter intensively. It was for this reason that Rahul Gandhi’s Facebook engagement has increased dramatically and his recent outing at 66 Bhog in Madhya Pradesh registered 3.2 million views.

Come December and Congress to go into campaign overdrive

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