Congress president <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnatakas-most-wanted-rahul-gandhi-fires-fresh-salvo-at-pm-modi-134769">Rahul Gandhi today jumped </a>into the debate linking him to take over India's top political office.

While interacting with eminent citizens <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjps-manifesto-is-poorly-crafted-fantasy-rahul-gandhi-134632">at a hotel in Bengaluru as part</a> of his Karnataka election campaign, a person asked him: if Congress emerges as the single largest party in 2019, then Mr Gandhi, will you be the prime ministerial candidate?

To this, Rahul Gandhi promptly replied: Why not.

Rahul had taken over as the president of the Congress party last year after his mother Sonia Gandhi stepped down due to ill health and over growing calls to make the young Gandhi scion as the head of the grand old party.

Rahul was elected as MP of Amethi in 2004 when the UPA swept to power beating the BJP-led NDA during the general elections surprising the then PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

The Congress president hasn't held a national-level political office and kept himself out of the Cabinet during UPA's ten-year tenure at the Centre.

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The Congress president hasn't held a national-level political office and kept himself out of the Cabinet during UPA's ten-year tenure at the Centre.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi today jumped into the debate linking him to take over India's top political office. While interacting with eminent citizens at a hotel in Bengaluru as part of his Karnataka election campaign, a person asked him: if Congress emerges as the single largest party in 2019, then Mr Gandhi, will you be the prime ministerial candidate? To this, Rahul Gandhi promptly replied: Why not. Rahul had taken over as the president of the Congress party last year after his mother Sonia Gandhi stepped down due to ill health and over growing calls to make the young Gandhi scion as the head of the grand old party. Rahul was elected as MP of Amethi in 2004 when the UPA swept to power beating the BJP-led NDA during the general elections surprising the then PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The Congress president hasn't held a national-level political office and kept himself out of the Cabinet during UPA's ten-year tenure at the Centre.

Is Rahul Gandhi ready to be PM? Why not, says Congress president

Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday attacked the BJP government over the&nbsp;absence of Union Minister Arun Jaitley and Secretary Hasmukh Adhia from the finance ministry at the same time

Gandhi&nbsp;tweeted a&nbsp;mock letter to Finance Minister addressed by Prime Minister.

Through his letter, Gandhi targetted the government for allegedly interfering in financial policies.

The letter said, "Dear FM, As you are indisposed and Finance Secretary is on vacation with his Guru on a quest for inner peace, I have decided to shut the Finance Ministry till further notice. The PMO will take all financial policy decisions as before. Prime Minister".

His tweet was based on a report that said Jaitley had not attended office for a month because of a kidney ailment and also claimed that finance secretary Adhia has taken leave till May 20 to do yoga and meditation with Swami Visharadanand Saraswathy in Mysuru.

In his letter, Gandhi said that in the absence of the finance ministers, the Prime Minister Office will take the decisions on finance policy "as before".

Jaitley had not attended office for a month due to a kidney ailment. However, sources have claimed that the Finance Minister had been clearing files from his residence. 
 
He attended a&nbsp;cabinet meeting and chaired a meeting of the GST council through video conference on April 25.

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Dear FM, 
 
As you are indisposed and Finance Secretary is on vacation with his Guru on a quest for inner peace, I have decided to shut the Finance Ministry till further notice. 
 
The PMO will take all financial policy decisions as before. 
 
Prime Minister<a href="https://t.co/EqHxbkQSXT">https://t.co/EqHxbkQSXT</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/993742922549022720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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'Dear FM, As you are indisposed and Finance Secretary is on vacation with his Guru on a quest for inner peace, I have decided to shut the Finance Ministry till further notice. The PMO will take all financial policy decisions as before,' the letter said. It was signed 'Prime Minister'

Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday attacked the BJP government over the absence of Union Minister Arun Jaitley and Secretary Hasmukh Adhia from the finance ministry at the same time Gandhi tweeted a mock letter to Finance Minister addressed by Prime Minister. Through his letter, Gandhi targetted the government for allegedly interfering in financial policies. The letter said, "Dear FM, As you are indisposed and Finance Secretary is on vacation with his Guru on a quest for inner peace, I have decided to shut the Finance Ministry till further notice. The PMO will take all financial policy decisions as before. Prime Minister". His tweet was based on a report that said Jaitley had not attended office for a month because of a kidney ailment and also claimed that finance secretary Adhia has taken leave till May 20 to do yoga and meditation with Swami Visharadanand Saraswathy in Mysuru. In his letter, Gandhi said that in the absence of the finance ministers, the Prime Minister Office will take the decisions on finance policy "as before". Jaitley had not attended office for a month due to a kidney ailment. However, sources have claimed that the Finance Minister had been clearing files from his residence. He attended a cabinet meeting and chaired a meeting of the GST council through video conference on April 25. Dear FM, As you are indisposed and Finance Secretary is on vacation with his Guru on a quest for inner peace, I have decided to shut the Finance Ministry till further notice. The PMO will take all financial policy decisions as before. Prime Ministerhttps://t.co/EqHxbkQSXT — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 8, 2018 ×

Finance Minister 'indisposed', secretary 'on quest for inner peace': Rahul writes mock letter

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday said "it's a clear fight in Karnataka".&nbsp;

A fight between "clean vs dirty politics", between the "mafia vs people ".&nbsp;

The allusion was to the BJP fielding the controversial Reddy brothers in the upcoming Karnataka elections.&nbsp;

The BJP has fielded G Somashekhara Reddy from Ballari city, and his elder brother and former Ballari Lok Sabha member G Karunakara Reddy from Harappanahalli in Davanagere district.

The politically-influential Reddy brothers have often been associated with the iron ore mafia.&nbsp;

"It's a clear fight in Karnataka. Clean Politics vs Dirty Politics. Mafia vs People," Rahul tweeted Tuesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He also asked for contributions for the Congress' candidates to help take on the financial might of the Reddy brothers.&nbsp;

"With the BJP fielding the corrupt Reddy gang, we are trying a novel approach to fund our candidate. Support our candidate by making a contribution," Rahul tweeted.&nbsp;

Karnataka goes to the polls on May 12. The results will be out on May 15.&nbsp;

All eyes are on the election, which is being seen as a harbinger of what might happen in the 2019&nbsp;general elections.&nbsp;

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It's a clear fight in Karnataka. Clean Politics vs Dirty Politics. Mafia vs People. With the BJP fielding the corrupt Reddy gang, we are trying a novel approach to fund our candidate. Support our candidate by making a contribution.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CleanPoliticswithINC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CleanPoliticswithINC</a><a href="https://t.co/D6zkzjxAgH">https://t.co/D6zkzjxAgH</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/993809871362510848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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'With the BJP fielding the corrupt Reddy gang, we are trying a novel approach to fund our candidate. Support our candidate by making a contribution,' Rahul tweeted Tuesday

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday said "it's a clear fight in Karnataka". A fight between "clean vs dirty politics", between the "mafia vs people ". The allusion was to the BJP fielding the controversial Reddy brothers in the upcoming Karnataka elections. The BJP has fielded G Somashekhara Reddy from Ballari city, and his elder brother and former Ballari Lok Sabha member G Karunakara Reddy from Harappanahalli in Davanagere district. The politically-influential Reddy brothers have often been associated with the iron ore mafia. "It's a clear fight in Karnataka. Clean Politics vs Dirty Politics. Mafia vs People," Rahul tweeted Tuesday. He also asked for contributions for the Congress' candidates to help take on the financial might of the Reddy brothers. "With the BJP fielding the corrupt Reddy gang, we are trying a novel approach to fund our candidate. Support our candidate by making a contribution," Rahul tweeted. Karnataka goes to the polls on May 12. The results will be out on May 15. All eyes are on the election, which is being seen as a harbinger of what might happen in the 2019 general elections. It's a clear fight in Karnataka. Clean Politics vs Dirty Politics. Mafia vs People. With the BJP fielding the corrupt Reddy gang, we are trying a novel approach to fund our candidate. Support our candidate by making a contribution.#CleanPoliticswithINChttps://t.co/D6zkzjxAgH — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 8, 2018 ×

'It's a clear fight in Karnataka,' says Rahul. 'Clean vs Dirty Politics, Mafia vs People'

PM Modi took another potshot at the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-elections-pm-modi-addresses-bjp-youth-workers-via-namo-app-135050">Congress during the Karnataka </a>election campaign in Vijayapura, asserting that the people will vote against the grand old party in the polls due this week.

"People have decided to remove Congress from Karnataka," PM Modi said, adding that the Congress has given up on the state.

The prime minister has been<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-dubs-congress-a-deal-party-says-no-one-can-save-it-134996"> attacking Congress over </a>the last several days ever since he took up the BJP's poll campaign on May 1st.

"Congress is dividing communities and spreading hatred," the prime minister told people at the rally. PM Modi also took up the plight of the farmers blaming the Congress for "ignoring" them.

"Karnataka ministers were in Delhi during the famine," he said, adding that people will punish the "Congress for its sins."

"Congress believes in divide and rule and his only looking to make excuses," he declared.

Earlier, while replying to a question from a person at a hotel in Bengaluru on whether he would take up the prime ministership if the Congress emerges as the single largest party in the 2019 general elections, Rahul Gandhi had emphatically said: "why not".

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PM Modi also took up the plight of the farmers blaming the Congress for "ignoring" them.

PM Modi took another potshot at the Congress during the Karnataka election campaign in Vijayapura, asserting that the people will vote against the grand old party in the polls due this week. "People have decided to remove Congress from Karnataka," PM Modi said, adding that the Congress has given up on the state. The prime minister has been attacking Congress over the last several days ever since he took up the BJP's poll campaign on May 1st. "Congress is dividing communities and spreading hatred," the prime minister told people at the rally. PM Modi also took up the plight of the farmers blaming the Congress for "ignoring" them. "Karnataka ministers were in Delhi during the famine," he said, adding that people will punish the "Congress for its sins." "Congress believes in divide and rule and his only looking to make excuses," he declared. Earlier, while replying to a question from a person at a hotel in Bengaluru on whether he would take up the prime ministership if the Congress emerges as the single largest party in the 2019 general elections, Rahul Gandhi had emphatically said: "why not".

Karnataka ministers were in Delhi during famine, says PM Modi during Karnataka election rally

Protesting against the high petrol and fuel prices, Congress President Rahul Gandhi today rode a bicycle as he led a march on the issue while campaigning in Karnataka's Kolar district.

Later, standing on a bullock cart, he addressed a gathering where he alleged that the BJP-led government wanted to take money from the common man to give it to its "rich friends" and asked it to tell the people why they were not reducing the price of petrol in the country.

Gandhi, who resumed his poll campaign for the May 12 assembly polls, took out a protest march in Maluru in Kolar against rising petrol prices by riding a bicycle with other Congress workers walking or running behind him.

The world over petrol prices were decreasing, but in India prices were still high, he lamented.

"Earlier in international market, the price was USD 140 per barrel, now it is USD 70 per barrel. So lakhs of crores of money is being saved by the government. Where is the money going?" Gandhi asked.

"Why are you not saying to people that you don't want to put GST on petrol and diesel? You want to take away money from common man and want to give it to your five or ten industrialist friends," he said before the gathering.

"You want to take money from the pockets of those driving scooter, truck, bus and other vehicles in the country and want to give it your rich friends," the Congress leader said.

During his three-day visit, Gandhi will be campaigning in Kolar, Bengaluru Rural, Chikkballapura, Tumakuru districts and Bengaluru city. PTI&nbsp;

The Congress President alleged the BJP-led government wanted to take money from the common man to give it to its 'rich friends'. Rahul was campaigning in Karnataka, which goes to the polls on May 12

Protesting against the high petrol and fuel prices, Congress President Rahul Gandhi today rode a bicycle as he led a march on the issue while campaigning in Karnataka's Kolar district. Later, standing on a bullock cart, he addressed a gathering where he alleged that the BJP-led government wanted to take money from the common man to give it to its "rich friends" and asked it to tell the people why they were not reducing the price of petrol in the country. Gandhi, who resumed his poll campaign for the May 12 assembly polls, took out a protest march in Maluru in Kolar against rising petrol prices by riding a bicycle with other Congress workers walking or running behind him. The world over petrol prices were decreasing, but in India prices were still high, he lamented. "Earlier in international market, the price was USD 140 per barrel, now it is USD 70 per barrel. So lakhs of crores of money is being saved by the government. Where is the money going?" Gandhi asked. "Why are you not saying to people that you don't want to put GST on petrol and diesel? You want to take away money from common man and want to give it to your five or ten industrialist friends," he said before the gathering. "You want to take money from the pockets of those driving scooter, truck, bus and other vehicles in the country and want to give it your rich friends," the Congress leader said. During his three-day visit, Gandhi will be campaigning in Kolar, Bengaluru Rural, Chikkballapura, Tumakuru districts and Bengaluru city. PTI

Watch: Rahul rides cycle in Karnataka to protest fuel prices, gives speech from bullock cart

The Congress leaders would be seeking divine blessings at various temples in MP in a bid to wrest power from the BJP in the state where the Assembly polls are due later this year.

The Congress state election campaign committee chairman, Jyotiraditya Scindia, will kick off the party's campaign for the polls from Ujjain district after offering prayers at the famous Mahakal temple on May 11, state party spokesman Pankaj Chaturvedi said.

"Scindia is a deeply religious person, he is going to visit many temples to seek blessings of the Almighty to overthrow the BJP government, which has been in power for over 14 years in MP," he said.

The newly appointed MP Congress president, Kamal Nath, who formally took charge of the party in the state on May 1, visited the Gufa Mandir in Bhopal on May 2.

The same day, he also went to the Mahakal temple in Ujjain and offered prayers at the Pitambara Peeth in Datia district.

A Congress leader said their party chief Rahul Gandhi was likely to start his election campaign in MP after visiting either the Mahakal temple or the Pitambara Peeth.

Gandhi would visit some prominent Hindu temples in MP, replicating his Gujarat electioneering model, the leader said on condition of anonymity. 
 
Notably, senior Congress leader Digvijay Singh last month completed his 3,300-km 'Narmada Parikarma' (circumambulation) along the river banks on foot.

A BJP leader dubbed such tactics of the Congress leaders as "hypocrisy" to woo the voters, saying that the strategy won't work in the polls.

"The Congress leaders' visits to temples, especially Digvijayji's Narmada yatra, is just a hypocrisy. Everyone knows that Digvijayji believes in minority appeasement," state BJP general secretary V D Sharma said.

"The people know that the Congress leaders in MP have turned religious only to get votes. Their temple-going tactics to woo voters won't work in the forthcoming elections. They are anti-Hindu and believe in minority appeasement for votes," Sharma said.&nbsp

The Congress state election campaign committee chairman, Jyotiraditya Scindia, will kick off the party's campaign for the polls from Ujjain district after offering prayers at the famous Mahakal temple on May 11, state party spokesman Pankaj Chaturvedi said

The Congress leaders would be seeking divine blessings at various temples in MP in a bid to wrest power from the BJP in the state where the Assembly polls are due later this year. The Congress state election campaign committee chairman, Jyotiraditya Scindia, will kick off the party's campaign for the polls from Ujjain district after offering prayers at the famous Mahakal temple on May 11, state party spokesman Pankaj Chaturvedi said. "Scindia is a deeply religious person, he is going to visit many temples to seek blessings of the Almighty to overthrow the BJP government, which has been in power for over 14 years in MP," he said. The newly appointed MP Congress president, Kamal Nath, who formally took charge of the party in the state on May 1, visited the Gufa Mandir in Bhopal on May 2. The same day, he also went to the Mahakal temple in Ujjain and offered prayers at the Pitambara Peeth in Datia district. A Congress leader said their party chief Rahul Gandhi was likely to start his election campaign in MP after visiting either the Mahakal temple or the Pitambara Peeth. Gandhi would visit some prominent Hindu temples in MP, replicating his Gujarat electioneering model, the leader said on condition of anonymity. Notably, senior Congress leader Digvijay Singh last month completed his 3,300-km 'Narmada Parikarma' (circumambulation) along the river banks on foot. A BJP leader dubbed such tactics of the Congress leaders as "hypocrisy" to woo the voters, saying that the strategy won't work in the polls. "The Congress leaders' visits to temples, especially Digvijayji's Narmada yatra, is just a hypocrisy. Everyone knows that Digvijayji believes in minority appeasement," state BJP general secretary V D Sharma said. "The people know that the Congress leaders in MP have turned religious only to get votes. Their temple-going tactics to woo voters won't work in the forthcoming elections. They are anti-Hindu and believe in minority appeasement for votes," Sharma said.

Congress leaders to go temple-hopping in MP; BJP says it won't work

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Sunday said that the BJP and RSS believed that Dalits and Adivasis should exist at the bottom rung of society.

Rahul Gandhi posted a video on Twitter showing atrocities against Dalits.

The Congress president wrote: "Central to the RSS/ BJP fascist ideology, is that Dalits & Adivasis must continue to exist at the bottom rung of society. In this disturbing video, the dangers of this mindset and how it’s openly propagated by senior RSS/ BJP leaders is revealed."

The video begins by stating that there is "horrific untouchability and violence against Dalits under the BJP."

It states that though PM Modi preaches co-operation by everyone, "every 12 minutes, Dalits faces atrocity, everyday six Dalit women are raped".&nbsp;

"Dalits are facing countless atrocities at the hands of PM Modi's brand of development."

In the video, the Congress president claims that the BJP's chief ministerial candidate BS Yeddyurappa practices untouchability in the 21st century and that he accepts Dalit votes but not food from a Dalit kitchen.

Referring to the Una incident, the video states that "lynchings are the essence of caste relations in Modi's India."

It concludes by stating, "Why are Dalits constantly prosecuted in Modi's new India... His silence reflects the mindset of RSS and BJP... Speak-up Mr Modi." 
&nbsp;

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Central to the RSS/ BJP fascist ideology, is that Dalits & Adivasis must continue to exist at the bottom rung of society. 
 
In this disturbing video, the dangers of this mindset and how it’s openly propagated by senior RSS/ BJP leaders is revealed. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AnswerMaadiModi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AnswerMaadiModi</a> <a href="https://t.co/gX2NwL0q27">pic.twitter.com/gX2NwL0q27</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/992965732857208832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah also chimed in, tweeting that Dalits did not need "empty outreach strategies like having meals with them. What they need is empowerment with dignity and justice. Will you take affirmative action or will you continue to send your leaders to Dalit homes with packed dinners?."&nbsp; 
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What Dalits need are not empty outreach strategies like having meals with them. 
 
What they need is empowerment with dignity and justice. 
 
Will you take affirmative action or will you continue to send your leaders to Dalit homes with packed dinners? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AnswerMaadiModi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AnswerMaadiModi</a> <a href="https://t.co/430b5iBLto">https://t.co/430b5iBLto</a>
— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) <a href="https://twitter.com/siddaramaiah/status/992992624100360193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He was referring to Uttar Pradesh minister Suresh Raina who had gone to a Dalit home for a meal carrying packed lunches. 
 
About 23 per cent of Karnataka's population comprises of Dalits.

The state goes to polls on May 12.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi posted a video on Twitter showing atrocities against Dalits

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Sunday said that the BJP and RSS believed that Dalits and Adivasis should exist at the bottom rung of society. Rahul Gandhi posted a video on Twitter showing atrocities against Dalits. The Congress president wrote: "Central to the RSS/ BJP fascist ideology, is that Dalits & Adivasis must continue to exist at the bottom rung of society. In this disturbing video, the dangers of this mindset and how it’s openly propagated by senior RSS/ BJP leaders is revealed." The video begins by stating that there is "horrific untouchability and violence against Dalits under the BJP." It states that though PM Modi preaches co-operation by everyone, "every 12 minutes, Dalits faces atrocity, everyday six Dalit women are raped". "Dalits are facing countless atrocities at the hands of PM Modi's brand of development." In the video, the Congress president claims that the BJP's chief ministerial candidate BS Yeddyurappa practices untouchability in the 21st century and that he accepts Dalit votes but not food from a Dalit kitchen. Referring to the Una incident, the video states that "lynchings are the essence of caste relations in Modi's India." It concludes by stating, "Why are Dalits constantly prosecuted in Modi's new India... His silence reflects the mindset of RSS and BJP... Speak-up Mr Modi." Central to the RSS/ BJP fascist ideology, is that Dalits & Adivasis must continue to exist at the bottom rung of society. In this disturbing video, the dangers of this mindset and how it’s openly propagated by senior RSS/ BJP leaders is revealed. #AnswerMaadiModi pic.twitter.com/gX2NwL0q27 — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 6, 2018 × Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah also chimed in, tweeting that Dalits did not need "empty outreach strategies like having meals with them. What they need is empowerment with dignity and justice. Will you take affirmative action or will you continue to send your leaders to Dalit homes with packed dinners?." What Dalits need are not empty outreach strategies like having meals with them. What they need is empowerment with dignity and justice. Will you take affirmative action or will you continue to send your leaders to Dalit homes with packed dinners? #AnswerMaadiModi https://t.co/430b5iBLto — Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) May 6, 2018 × He was referring to Uttar Pradesh minister Suresh Raina who had gone to a Dalit home for a meal carrying packed lunches. About 23 per cent of Karnataka's population comprises of Dalits. The state goes to polls on May 12.

BJP wants Dalits to exist at the bottom rung of society: Rahul Gandhi

In the run-up to the Karnataka elections, Congress president Rahul Gandhi today posted a video challenging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to reply to the allegations of corruption against BJP leaders from the state.

Rahul wrote on Twitter that while PM Modi talked a lot, his actions did not match his words. The Congress president added that the video played out like an episode of "Karnataka's Most Wanted".

The Congress president tweeted: "You talk a lot. Problem is, your actions don’t match your words. Here's a primer on your candidate selection in Karnataka.&nbsp;It plays like an episode of "Karnataka's Most Wanted".&nbsp;

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Dear Modi ji, 
 
You talk a lot. Problem is, your actions don’t match your words. Here's a primer on your candidate selection in Karnataka. 
 
It plays like an episode of "Karnataka's Most Wanted". <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AnswerMaadiModi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AnswerMaadiModi</a> <a href="https://t.co/G97AjBQUgO">pic.twitter.com/G97AjBQUgO</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/992619654811185152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The video begins by asking PM Modi to speak for five minutes on the eight tickets granted to the corrupt Reddy brothers "gang" and on making BS Yeddyurappa the BJP's chief ministerial candidate despite the "23 cases of corruption, cheating and forgery" against him.

The video asks PM Modi when he will speak on the top 11 BJP leaders facing corruption cases.

It names B Sriramulu, Somashekar Reddy, TH Suresh Babu, Katta Subramanya Naidu, CT Ravi, Murgesh Nirani, ES EN Krisshnaiah Shetty Malur, K Shivanagouda Nayak, R Ashok, and Shobha Karandlaje as the BJP candidates facing criminal cases.&nbsp;

"Putting a lid on the Rs 35,000 crore illegal iron ore mining scam of the Reddy brothers. Awaiting your reply," states the video which shows external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj giving her blessings to the infamous Reddy brothers.

 
&nbsp;

In the run-up to the Karnataka elections, Congress president Rahul Gandhi today posted a video challenging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to reply to the allegations of corruption against BJP leaders from the state

In the run-up to the Karnataka elections, Congress president Rahul Gandhi today posted a video challenging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to reply to the allegations of corruption against BJP leaders from the state. Rahul wrote on Twitter that while PM Modi talked a lot, his actions did not match his words. The Congress president added that the video played out like an episode of "Karnataka's Most Wanted". The Congress president tweeted: "You talk a lot. Problem is, your actions don’t match your words. Here's a primer on your candidate selection in Karnataka. It plays like an episode of "Karnataka's Most Wanted". Dear Modi ji, You talk a lot. Problem is, your actions don’t match your words. Here's a primer on your candidate selection in Karnataka. It plays like an episode of "Karnataka's Most Wanted". #AnswerMaadiModi pic.twitter.com/G97AjBQUgO — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 5, 2018 × The video begins by asking PM Modi to speak for five minutes on the eight tickets granted to the corrupt Reddy brothers "gang" and on making BS Yeddyurappa the BJP's chief ministerial candidate despite the "23 cases of corruption, cheating and forgery" against him. The video asks PM Modi when he will speak on the top 11 BJP leaders facing corruption cases. It names B Sriramulu, Somashekar Reddy, TH Suresh Babu, Katta Subramanya Naidu, CT Ravi, Murgesh Nirani, ES EN Krisshnaiah Shetty Malur, K Shivanagouda Nayak, R Ashok, and Shobha Karandlaje as the BJP candidates facing criminal cases. "Putting a lid on the Rs 35,000 crore illegal iron ore mining scam of the Reddy brothers. Awaiting your reply," states the video which shows external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj giving her blessings to the infamous Reddy brothers.

'Karnataka's most wanted': Rahul Gandhi fires fresh salvo at PM Modi

The BJP released its<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-gives-women-equal-opportunity-highlights-from-pm-modis-address-to-karnataka-bjps-women-workers-134522"> manifesto for the Karnataka </a>elections today targetting farmers and women.

The manifesto promised 1 per cent loans upto 1 lakh for women entrepreneurs. The BJP vision statement said 1,000 farmers to be taken to Isreal for Agricultural scholarships.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-elections-strengths-and-weaknesses-of-key-parties-134561">Karnataka elections: Strengths and weaknesses of key parties</a>

Announcing the manifesto release, former Karnataka CM BS Yeddyurappa said: "Welfare of farmers has always been our priority," adding,"we will allocate Rs 1,50,000 crore for various irrigation projects in Karnataka and ensure water reaches to every field in the state."

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Bengaluru: BJP's CM candidate BS Yeddyurappa, Union Minister Prakash Javadekar & other leaders launch the party's manifesto for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/LLCxlB3CTm">pic.twitter.com/LLCxlB3CTm</a>
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The party has also decided to waive off loans&nbsp;upto 1 lakh for farmers if it comes to power in the state.

The manifesto promised "free smartphones" for women in below poverty line(BPL) families including Rs 25,000 gold and mangalasutra.

The party said it will set up 10,000 crore Stree Unnati&nbsp;(Women Development) Fund, one of the largest women run cooperatives, and will also establish Stree Unnati stores to market products.

The BJP also said it would open Annapurna canteens across the state where subsidized food will be served.

The manifesto said the BJP will develop 6 incubators and co-working spaces for startups in Hubballi, Bengaluru, Raichur, Mysuru, Mangaluru and Kalaburgi

Raitha Bandhu Department to be set up under the CMO to monitor implementation of schemes, the BJP announced.

The party also proposed Rs 5.000 crore Raitha Bandhu Market Intervention Fund to be set up to insulate farmers and will launch Mukhya Mantri Raitha Suraksha Vime Yojana to provide accidental insurance cover of upto&nbsp;Rs 2 lakh

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The manifesto promised 1 per cent loans upto 1 lakh for women entrepreneurs.

The BJP released its manifesto for the Karnataka elections today targetting farmers and women. The manifesto promised 1 per cent loans upto 1 lakh for women entrepreneurs. The BJP vision statement said 1,000 farmers to be taken to Isreal for Agricultural scholarships. Karnataka elections: Strengths and weaknesses of key parties Announcing the manifesto release, former Karnataka CM BS Yeddyurappa said: "Welfare of farmers has always been our priority," adding,"we will allocate Rs 1,50,000 crore for various irrigation projects in Karnataka and ensure water reaches to every field in the state." Bengaluru: BJP's CM candidate BS Yeddyurappa, Union Minister Prakash Javadekar & other leaders launch the party's manifesto for #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/LLCxlB3CTm — ANI (@ANI) May 4, 2018 × The party has also decided to waive off loans upto 1 lakh for farmers if it comes to power in the state. The manifesto promised "free smartphones" for women in below poverty line(BPL) families including Rs 25,000 gold and mangalasutra. The party said it will set up 10,000 crore Stree Unnati (Women Development) Fund, one of the largest women run cooperatives, and will also establish Stree Unnati stores to market products. The BJP also said it would open Annapurna canteens across the state where subsidized food will be served. The manifesto said the BJP will develop 6 incubators and co-working spaces for startups in Hubballi, Bengaluru, Raichur, Mysuru, Mangaluru and Kalaburgi Raitha Bandhu Department to be set up under the CMO to monitor implementation of schemes, the BJP announced. The party also proposed Rs 5.000 crore Raitha Bandhu Market Intervention Fund to be set up to insulate farmers and will launch Mukhya Mantri Raitha Suraksha Vime Yojana to provide accidental insurance cover of upto Rs 2 lakh

BJP releases Karnataka election manifesto, targets women & farmers

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-rejects-janardhan-reddys-plea-to-campaign-in-bellary-for-brother-134635">Karnataka polls: Supreme Court rejects Janardhan Reddy's plea to campaign in Bellary for brother</a>

The Supreme Court on Friday dismissed a plea filed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Gali Janardhan Reddy, for allowing him to go to Bellary to campaign for his brother, G Somashekar Reddy, contesting for the upcoming assembly elections in Karnataka.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjps-manifesto-is-poorly-crafted-fantasy-rahul-gandhi-134632">BJP's manifesto is poorly crafted fantasy: Rahul Gandhi</a>

Hitting out at the BJP`s Karnataka manifesto, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Friday said that it had nothing unique to offer voters.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/flipkart-yet-to-finalise-stake-sale-deal-with-walmart-sources-134588">Flipkart yet to finalise stake sale deal with Walmart: Sources</a>

Flipkart's board is yet to finalise a deal to sell a stake to Walmart Inc, two sources with direct knowledge of the matter said on Friday, with one of them saying a deal could just be days away.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-us-reach-some-deals-in-trade-row-but-beijing-says-differences-still-relatively-big-134645">China, US reach some deals in trade row but Beijing says differences still relatively big</a>

Top officials from China and the United States reached a consensus on some aspects of the countries' trade row, but disagreements over other issues remain "relatively big", China said on Friday.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/gst-council-defers-decision-on-sugar-cess-refers-digital-payments-incentive-issue-to-gom-134605">GST Council defers </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/gst-council-defers-decision-on-sugar-cess-refers-digital-payments-incentive-issue-to-gom-134605">decision</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/gst-council-defers-decision-on-sugar-cess-refers-digital-payments-incentive-issue-to-gom-134605"> on sugar cess, refers digital payments incentive issue to GoM</a>

The all-powerful GST Council today deferred a decision on levying a cess on sugar and referred the issue of incentivising digital payments to a group of state finance ministers.

Karnataka polls: Supreme Court rejects Janardhan Reddy's plea to campaign in Bellary for brother The Supreme Court on Friday dismissed a plea filed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Gali Janardhan Reddy, for allowing him to go to Bellary to campaign for his brother, G Somashekar Reddy, contesting for the upcoming assembly elections in Karnataka. BJP's manifesto is poorly crafted fantasy: Rahul Gandhi Hitting out at the BJP`s Karnataka manifesto, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Friday said that it had nothing unique to offer voters. Flipkart yet to finalise stake sale deal with Walmart: Sources Flipkart's board is yet to finalise a deal to sell a stake to Walmart Inc, two sources with direct knowledge of the matter said on Friday, with one of them saying a deal could just be days away. China, US reach some deals in trade row but Beijing says differences still relatively big Top officials from China and the United States reached a consensus on some aspects of the countries' trade row, but disagreements over other issues remain "relatively big", China said on Friday. GST Council defers decision on sugar cess, refers digital payments incentive issue to GoM The all-powerful GST Council today deferred a decision on levying a cess on sugar and referred the issue of incentivising digital payments to a group of state finance ministers.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Hitting out at the BJP`s Karnataka manifesto, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Friday said that it had nothing unique to offer voters.

"New Book Review! The BJP Karnataka Manifesto, inspired by Narendra Modi, is a poorly crafted fantasy built around a weak plot, that has nothing unique to offer voters.

"If you`ve read the Congress Manifesto, don`t waste your time on this one," he tweeted.

With an eye on returning to power in Karnataka, the BJP on Friday released its manifesto for the Assembly elections, promising free smartphones to poor women, free laptops to students entering college and visits to China and Israel by farmers.

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New Book Review! 
 
The BJP Karnataka Manifesto, inspired by Narendra Modi, is a poorly crafted fantasy built around a weak plot, that has nothing unique to offer voters. If you've read the Congress Manifesto, don't waste your time on this one. 
 
Rating: 1/5 ⭐ 
Recommendation:Avoid
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/992354462017703936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"If you`ve read the Congress Manifesto, don`t waste your time on this one," he tweeted.

Hitting out at the BJP`s Karnataka manifesto, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Friday said that it had nothing unique to offer voters. "New Book Review! The BJP Karnataka Manifesto, inspired by Narendra Modi, is a poorly crafted fantasy built around a weak plot, that has nothing unique to offer voters. "If you`ve read the Congress Manifesto, don`t waste your time on this one," he tweeted. With an eye on returning to power in Karnataka, the BJP on Friday released its manifesto for the Assembly elections, promising free smartphones to poor women, free laptops to students entering college and visits to China and Israel by farmers. New Book Review! The BJP Karnataka Manifesto, inspired by Narendra Modi, is a poorly crafted fantasy built around a weak plot, that has nothing unique to offer voters. If you've read the Congress Manifesto, don't waste your time on this one. Rating: 1/5 ⭐ Recommendation:Avoid — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 4, 2018 ×

BJP's manifesto is poorly crafted fantasy: Rahul Gandhi

As the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/karnataka-votes-pm-modis-open-dare-to-rahul-challenges-congress-on-their-achievements-134100">battle between&nbsp;Congress and the BJP</a> continues ahead of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-elections-an-existential-battle-for-congress-134207">Karnataka elections</a>, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Thursday released a Report Card awarding "F" grade to&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

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In his report&nbsp;card to PM Modi, Gandhi&nbsp;mentions that&nbsp;the prime minister has made&nbsp;"0" contribution&nbsp;towards the&nbsp;state's&nbsp;agriculture and&nbsp;farmers'.

The report card states that the Centre has not made any contribution to the state's government's 8,500 crore farm loan waiver scheme.&nbsp;

It further states that the farmers continue to suffer despite the Prime Minister's crop insurance scheme. It also mentioned that the scheme is benefitting the insurance companies which are making huge profits.

Rahul Gandhi's report card to PM Modi also says that the government does not provide any Minimum Support Price to the farmers.

Gandhi's attack on PM Modi has come a day after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-poll-pitch-modi-addresses-farmers-on-namo-app-134125">Prime Minister addressed the farmers in the state via the Namo App</a>. In his address to the farmers,' the PM targetted the state government led by Siddaramaiah and claimed that the current government does not care about farmers.

Pitching Yeddyurappa&nbsp;as a possible chief ministerial candidate, the PM said&nbsp;Yeddyurappa is farmers' minister.

He further talked about empowering farmers' and doubling the farmers income by 2022.

Referring to the Budget he said he also called the BJP as pro-farmer.&nbsp;

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Mr Modi’s Report Card 
 
State: Karnataka 
Sub: Agriculture 
 
1. Contribution to Cong State Govts 8,500 Cr Farm Loan waiver = 0 Rs 
 
2. PM’s crop insurance scheme: Farmers suffer pvt insurance companies make huge profits. 
 
3. No MSP+50%, for Karnataka farmers. 
 
Grade = F <a href="https://t.co/SLJBE4cXWC">pic.twitter.com/SLJBE4cXWC</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/991879859151360000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In his report card to PM Modi, Gandhi mentions that the prime minister has made '0' contribution towards the state's agriculture and farmers'

As the battle between Congress and the BJP continues ahead of the Karnataka elections, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Thursday released a Report Card awarding "F" grade to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. × In his report card to PM Modi, Gandhi mentions that the prime minister has made "0" contribution towards the state's agriculture and farmers'. The report card states that the Centre has not made any contribution to the state's government's 8,500 crore farm loan waiver scheme. It further states that the farmers continue to suffer despite the Prime Minister's crop insurance scheme. It also mentioned that the scheme is benefitting the insurance companies which are making huge profits. Rahul Gandhi's report card to PM Modi also says that the government does not provide any Minimum Support Price to the farmers. Gandhi's attack on PM Modi has come a day after the Prime Minister addressed the farmers in the state via the Namo App. In his address to the farmers,' the PM targetted the state government led by Siddaramaiah and claimed that the current government does not care about farmers. Pitching Yeddyurappa as a possible chief ministerial candidate, the PM said Yeddyurappa is farmers' minister. He further talked about empowering farmers' and doubling the farmers income by 2022. Referring to the Budget he said he also called the BJP as pro-farmer. Mr Modi’s Report Card State: Karnataka Sub: Agriculture 1. Contribution to Cong State Govts 8,500 Cr Farm Loan waiver = 0 Rs 2. PM’s crop insurance scheme: Farmers suffer pvt insurance companies make huge profits. 3. No MSP+50%, for Karnataka farmers. Grade = F pic.twitter.com/SLJBE4cXWC — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 3, 2018 ×

Karnataka elections: Rahul Gandhi awards 'F' grade to PM Modi over farmers' issue

A Bhiwandi court has asked Congress President Rahul Gandhi to appear before it on June 12 to record his plea in a defamation case filed against him by an RSS functionary.

The court on Wednesday heard arguments on Gandhi's application, seeking a detailed recording of evidence instead of a 'summary trial', and adjourned the matter till June 12.

The court said that on June 12 it would pass an order on the application and would also record the defendant's (Rahul Gandhi) plea, and asked him to remain present on that day.

Rajesh Kunte, a local worker of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, had in 2014 filed the case against Rahul Gandhi after watching his speech in Thane's Bhiwandi township where the Congress leader alleged that the RSS was behind the killing of Mahatma Gandhi.

He filed the case against the Congress president over the latter's alleged statement at an election rally near Bhiwandi on March 6, 2014 that "the RSS people had killed (Mahatma) Gandhi."

Kunte claimed in his case that this statement slandered the reputation of the RSS.

While the trial in such cases are normally held summarily, Rahul Gandhi filed an application last month seeking for it to be conducted as a 'summons trial'.

"A summary trial is short and will be completed with just submitting the written arguments. We have sought for a summons trial which would go into the in-depth recording of the evidence," Rahul Gandhi's lawyer Narayan Iyer said.

"The case relates to historical facts and hence, we need to rely on several documents and would like to record the evidence of experts," he said.

Rahul Gandhi had earlier moved the Supreme Court seeking quashing of the case.

The apex court had in July 2016 said he should not have resorted to "collective denunciation" of an organisation, and would have to face trial if he did not express regret for his remark.

The Congress leader had declined to accept the suggestion and expressed willingness to face the trial.

Rajesh Kunte, a local worker of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, had in 2014 filed the case against Rahul Gandhi after watching his speech in Thane's Bhiwandi township where the Congress leader alleged that the RSS was behind the killing of Mahatma Gandhi

A Bhiwandi court has asked Congress President Rahul Gandhi to appear before it on June 12 to record his plea in a defamation case filed against him by an RSS functionary. The court on Wednesday heard arguments on Gandhi's application, seeking a detailed recording of evidence instead of a 'summary trial', and adjourned the matter till June 12. The court said that on June 12 it would pass an order on the application and would also record the defendant's (Rahul Gandhi) plea, and asked him to remain present on that day. Rajesh Kunte, a local worker of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, had in 2014 filed the case against Rahul Gandhi after watching his speech in Thane's Bhiwandi township where the Congress leader alleged that the RSS was behind the killing of Mahatma Gandhi. He filed the case against the Congress president over the latter's alleged statement at an election rally near Bhiwandi on March 6, 2014 that "the RSS people had killed (Mahatma) Gandhi." Kunte claimed in his case that this statement slandered the reputation of the RSS. While the trial in such cases are normally held summarily, Rahul Gandhi filed an application last month seeking for it to be conducted as a 'summons trial'. "A summary trial is short and will be completed with just submitting the written arguments. We have sought for a summons trial which would go into the in-depth recording of the evidence," Rahul Gandhi's lawyer Narayan Iyer said. "The case relates to historical facts and hence, we need to rely on several documents and would like to record the evidence of experts," he said. Rahul Gandhi had earlier moved the Supreme Court seeking quashing of the case. The apex court had in July 2016 said he should not have resorted to "collective denunciation" of an organisation, and would have to face trial if he did not express regret for his remark. The Congress leader had declined to accept the suggestion and expressed willingness to face the trial.

RSS defamation case: Court asks Rahul Gandhi to appear on June 12

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said that the language that the Prime Minister use against him does not befit the office he holds.

''The language you use against me does not befit the office you hold,'' news agency PTI reported quoting Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/can-rahul-gandhi-speak-for-15-minutes-pm-modi-at-karnataka-rally-133953">'Can Rahul Gandhi speak for 15 minutes?' Modi asks at Karnataka rally</a>

Addressing his first rally since February to build BJP momentum for the upcoming Karnataka assembly elections, Modi challenged Rahul to speak for 15 minutes in any language including his “mother’s mother tongue”.

Referring to Congress president Rahul Gandhi as “naamdaar” (dynast) and himself a “kaamdaar” (worker) Prime Minister Narendra Modi also accused the Congress of being anti-worker and pro-dynasty in its policies.&nbsp;

Also read:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/now-siddaramaiah-challenges-modi-to-speak-for-15-minutes-on-bsys-achievements--with-the-aid-of-notes-134268?first_load=no">&nbsp;Now, Siddaramaiah challenges Modi to speak for 15 minutes on BSY's 'achievements' — with the aid of notes</a>

Modi's challenge to Rahul Gandhi to speak for 15 minutes in any language including his “mother’s mother tongue, drew widespread criticism from several political leaders who also expressed a similar&nbsp;opinion.&nbsp;

Watch video below:&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: While addressing a rally in Bidar, Rahul Gandhi says, 'No matter what he (PM Modi) says about me, I will never make a personal attack on him as he is the PM of the country, but I can ask him questions.' <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ke8gr1Zedj">pic.twitter.com/Ke8gr1Zedj</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/991960561775726593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Addressing his first rally since February to build BJP momentum for the upcoming Karnataka assembly elections, Modi challenged Rahul to speak for 15 minutes in any language including his “mother’s mother tongue”.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said that the language that the Prime Minister use against him does not befit the office he holds. ''The language you use against me does not befit the office you hold,'' news agency PTI reported quoting Rahul Gandhi. Also read: 'Can Rahul Gandhi speak for 15 minutes?' Modi asks at Karnataka rally Addressing his first rally since February to build BJP momentum for the upcoming Karnataka assembly elections, Modi challenged Rahul to speak for 15 minutes in any language including his “mother’s mother tongue”. Referring to Congress president Rahul Gandhi as “naamdaar” (dynast) and himself a “kaamdaar” (worker) Prime Minister Narendra Modi also accused the Congress of being anti-worker and pro-dynasty in its policies. Also read: Now, Siddaramaiah challenges Modi to speak for 15 minutes on BSY's 'achievements' — with the aid of notes Modi's challenge to Rahul Gandhi to speak for 15 minutes in any language including his “mother’s mother tongue, drew widespread criticism from several political leaders who also expressed a similar opinion. Watch video below: #WATCH: While addressing a rally in Bidar, Rahul Gandhi says, 'No matter what he (PM Modi) says about me, I will never make a personal attack on him as he is the PM of the country, but I can ask him questions.' #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/Ke8gr1Zedj — ANI (@ANI) May 3, 2018 ×

Watch: Language you use against me does not befit office you hold, Rahul Gandhi tells Modi

Prime Minister Modi while addressing a rally on Tuesday had attacked Congress President Rahul Gandhi for insulting JD(S) chief HD Deve Gowda.

Responding to the charges levied by the prime minister on Rahul, Deputy Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Anand Sharma denied any such behaviour by Gandhi.

He said, "There was no disrespect ever towards Deve Gowda by Rahul Gandhi...It is not the Congress' culture to insult. When Deve Gowda Ji was prime minister, his government had full support of the Congress party. Rahul Gandhi has not said anything derogatory about Shri Deve Gowda".

Hitting back at PM Modi, he also asked the prime minister to apologise for repeatedly insulting former prime minister Manmohan Singh.

He also added that Gowda had in the run-up to 2014 elections said he would take 'political sanyas' if Modi became the prime minister.

On&nbsp;this, the JD(S) chief said he is continuing as the Lok Sabha member only because of Modi's persuasion skills.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-polls-let-congress-come-with-workable-proposal-says-deve-gowda-on-alliance---126800">JD(S) chief and former prime minister HD Deve Gowda</a> has also clarified that his party will not go into any <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-elections-no-post-poll-alliance-with-jds-confirms-siddaramaiah--132387">alliance</a> with BJP ahead of the Karnataka polls.

His remarks came in response to PM Modi's appreciation to Deve Gowda at a rally on Tuesday.

Deve Gowda also said that he would disown his son HD Kumaraswamy if he backs the BJP in the assembly election. 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Congress leader said 'There was no disrespect ever towards Deve Gowda by Rahul Gandhi...It is not the Congress' culture to insult. When Deve Gowda Ji was prime minister, his government had full support of the Congress party. Rahul Gandhi has not said anything derogatory about Shri Deve Gowda'

Prime Minister Modi while addressing a rally on Tuesday had attacked Congress President Rahul Gandhi for insulting JD(S) chief HD Deve Gowda. Responding to the charges levied by the prime minister on Rahul, Deputy Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Anand Sharma denied any such behaviour by Gandhi. He said, "There was no disrespect ever towards Deve Gowda by Rahul Gandhi...It is not the Congress' culture to insult. When Deve Gowda Ji was prime minister, his government had full support of the Congress party. Rahul Gandhi has not said anything derogatory about Shri Deve Gowda". Hitting back at PM Modi, he also asked the prime minister to apologise for repeatedly insulting former prime minister Manmohan Singh. He also added that Gowda had in the run-up to 2014 elections said he would take 'political sanyas' if Modi became the prime minister. On this, the JD(S) chief said he is continuing as the Lok Sabha member only because of Modi's persuasion skills. JD(S) chief and former prime minister HD Deve Gowda has also clarified that his party will not go into any alliance with BJP ahead of the Karnataka polls. His remarks came in response to PM Modi's appreciation to Deve Gowda at a rally on Tuesday. Deve Gowda also said that he would disown his son HD Kumaraswamy if he backs the BJP in the assembly election.

Rahul never disrespected Gowda: Congress denies PM Modi's charges

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday to speak for 15 minutes — with the aid of notes.&nbsp

Siddaramaiah dared the prime minister to speak about the "achievements of BS Yeddyurappa’s government in Karnataka".&nbsp

"I challenge you to speak about the achievements of BS Yeddyurappa’s Govt in Karnataka for 15 minutes by looking at a paper," Siddaramaiah tweeted on Wednesday.&nbsp

Yeddyurappa, who Modi said on Tuesday would be the BJP's chief ministerial candidate for the May 12 elections, has been a former chief minister of Karnataka.&nbsp

Siddaramaiah's challenge came in response to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/can-rahul-gandhi-speak-for-15-minutes-pm-modi-at-karnataka-rally-133953">Modi daring Congress President Rahul Gandhi</a> on Tuesday to speak for 15 minutes — without the aid of notes — on development carried out by the Congress in Karnataka.&nbsp

The prime minister dared Rahul to speak in any language — including his mother's. The reference was to Rahul's mother Sonia, who was born an Italian citizen.&nbsp

Which is what brought about the riposte from Siddaramaiah, with the aid-of-notes punchline thrown in.&nbsp

Modi's own dare to Rahul had come from an earlier challenge to Modi by the Congress President.&nbsp

Rahul had recently said that if he spoke in Parliament for 15 minutes, on a range of issues including corruption under the Modi regime, the prime minister would <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-slams-prime-minister-narendra-modi-at-jan-aakrosh-rally-in-delhi-133556">not be able to sit through it</a>.&nbsp

"The Congress President challenged me saying that if he speaks for 15 minutes in Parliament, I will not be able to sit through it. Him talking for 15 minutes is a big thing and I wonder what a sight it would be," news reports quoted Modi as saying Tuesday at an election rally in Karnataka.&nbsp

"It is true we will not be able to sit when he talks. That is because he is naamdaar (dynast) and we are kaamdaar (worker). What right do we workers have to sit in front of you? We cannot ever wear good clothes. These things do not hurt us because we have been subjugated for years," Modi added.&nbsp

Siddaramaiah's challenge came in response to Modi daring Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday to speak for 15 minutes — without the aid of notes — on development carried out by the Congress in Karnataka

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday to speak for 15 minutes — with the aid of notes. Siddaramaiah dared the prime minister to speak about the "achievements of BS Yeddyurappa’s government in Karnataka". "I challenge you to speak about the achievements of BS Yeddyurappa’s Govt in Karnataka for 15 minutes by looking at a paper," Siddaramaiah tweeted on Wednesday. Yeddyurappa, who Modi said on Tuesday would be the BJP's chief ministerial candidate for the May 12 elections, has been a former chief minister of Karnataka. Siddaramaiah's challenge came in response to Modi daring Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday to speak for 15 minutes — without the aid of notes — on development carried out by the Congress in Karnataka. The prime minister dared Rahul to speak in any language — including his mother's. The reference was to Rahul's mother Sonia, who was born an Italian citizen. Which is what brought about the riposte from Siddaramaiah, with the aid-of-notes punchline thrown in. Modi's own dare to Rahul had come from an earlier challenge to Modi by the Congress President. Rahul had recently said that if he spoke in Parliament for 15 minutes, on a range of issues including corruption under the Modi regime, the prime minister would not be able to sit through it. "The Congress President challenged me saying that if he speaks for 15 minutes in Parliament, I will not be able to sit through it. Him talking for 15 minutes is a big thing and I wonder what a sight it would be," news reports quoted Modi as saying Tuesday at an election rally in Karnataka. "It is true we will not be able to sit when he talks. That is because he is naamdaar (dynast) and we are kaamdaar (worker). What right do we workers have to sit in front of you? We cannot ever wear good clothes. These things do not hurt us because we have been subjugated for years," Modi added.

Now, Siddaramaiah challenges Modi to speak for 15 minutes on BSY's 'achievements' — with the aid of notes

Karnataka, which is heading for polls on May 12, is the only big state which left with Congress.

Once a pan-India party, the Congress's presence in the country is now reduced to just three states (Punjab, Mizoram and Karnataka) and one Union Territory (Puducherry).

The first major jolt to the party came in the form of defeat at the hands of Narendra Modi-led BJP in the general elections in 2014. Since then, Congress has been experiencing a series of failures. After losing the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, it has failed to stand against the might of Modi-Shah combine. The party lost electoral battles in Delhi, Assam, Kerala, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Tripura, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh etc.

The repeated loss of Congress has already put a question mark on the leadership of Rahul Gandhi. A loss again will translate into Rahul's inefficiency against the Modi-Shah might.

If the Congress is able to win the Assembly elections in Karnataka, the victory will certainly be attributed to current chief minister Siddaramaiah's strong reputation in the party. Siddaramaiah belongs to Kuruba (shepherd) caste but enjoys a status of a strong leader in the state. His name and political tenure has been out of any controversy. The various schemes and measures favouring Dalits and minorities that he introduced may also prove profitable to him.

The BJP contemplated the importance Siddaramaiah holds in the state politics as compared to its chief ministerial candidate Yeddyurappa and therefore fielded PM Modi and his "development agenda" against the fight with Congress.

A victory for the Congress in Karnataka will also decide the role that it will play in the potential grand alliance against the BJP ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi had hosted a dinner party for the leaders of 20 opposition parties at her Janpath residence on March 13. The party was apparently hosted to devise a collective plan to root out the BJP-led NDA in 2019 Lok Sabha polls. The Congress said that the party meeting was called to promote "amity and friendship".

Quoting Tejashwi Yadav and Sharad Yadav, a news report said that the meeting was the first step towards a comprehensive alliance of the 2019 elections.

In a bid to win over the hearts (and the votes) of the people of Karnataka, Congress president Rahul Gandhi is not leaving any stone unturned. He is also resorting to the Hindutva card.

Rahul visited around 25 temples in Gujarat during the election campaign in the state. Similar religious symbolism is seen in his recent visits to temples and dargahs in Karnataka.

Also, to woo the Lingayat community in the state, the Karnataka government granted minority status to them in March. Lingayats, the single largest community in Karnataka constitutes 17 per cent of the vote share and plays an important role in about 100 of the state's 224 seats.

A win in the state will also have a significant impact for Congress in the upcoming assembly elections in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Mizoram, and the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

The election in Karnataka is therefore seen as an existential battle for the Congress party which has almost vanished from the map of India.

The repeated loss of Congress has already put a question mark on the leadership of Rahul Gandhi.

Karnataka, which is heading for polls on May 12, is the only big state which left with Congress. Once a pan-India party, the Congress's presence in the country is now reduced to just three states (Punjab, Mizoram and Karnataka) and one Union Territory (Puducherry). The first major jolt to the party came in the form of defeat at the hands of Narendra Modi-led BJP in the general elections in 2014. Since then, Congress has been experiencing a series of failures. After losing the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, it has failed to stand against the might of Modi-Shah combine. The party lost electoral battles in Delhi, Assam, Kerala, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Tripura, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh etc. The repeated loss of Congress has already put a question mark on the leadership of Rahul Gandhi. A loss again will translate into Rahul's inefficiency against the Modi-Shah might. If the Congress is able to win the Assembly elections in Karnataka, the victory will certainly be attributed to current chief minister Siddaramaiah's strong reputation in the party. Siddaramaiah belongs to Kuruba (shepherd) caste but enjoys a status of a strong leader in the state. His name and political tenure has been out of any controversy. The various schemes and measures favouring Dalits and minorities that he introduced may also prove profitable to him. The BJP contemplated the importance Siddaramaiah holds in the state politics as compared to its chief ministerial candidate Yeddyurappa and therefore fielded PM Modi and his "development agenda" against the fight with Congress. A victory for the Congress in Karnataka will also decide the role that it will play in the potential grand alliance against the BJP ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi had hosted a dinner party for the leaders of 20 opposition parties at her Janpath residence on March 13. The party was apparently hosted to devise a collective plan to root out the BJP-led NDA in 2019 Lok Sabha polls. The Congress said that the party meeting was called to promote "amity and friendship". Quoting Tejashwi Yadav and Sharad Yadav, a news report said that the meeting was the first step towards a comprehensive alliance of the 2019 elections. In a bid to win over the hearts (and the votes) of the people of Karnataka, Congress president Rahul Gandhi is not leaving any stone unturned. He is also resorting to the Hindutva card. Rahul visited around 25 temples in Gujarat during the election campaign in the state. Similar religious symbolism is seen in his recent visits to temples and dargahs in Karnataka. Also, to woo the Lingayat community in the state, the Karnataka government granted minority status to them in March. Lingayats, the single largest community in Karnataka constitutes 17 per cent of the vote share and plays an important role in about 100 of the state's 224 seats. A win in the state will also have a significant impact for Congress in the upcoming assembly elections in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Mizoram, and the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The election in Karnataka is therefore seen as an existential battle for the Congress party which has almost vanished from the map of India.

Karnataka elections: An existential battle for Congress

First thing first. Rahul Gandhi is not a true politician. He simply is a mascot of the Congress party and all his actions and words are directed and scripted by his advisers and the party's few prominent veterans.

Notwithstanding above, whatever he says, reflects the stand of the party at the end of the day. Rahul's team decides his punch lines and issues, which he needs to raise and then he starts harping on them, rather mindlessly.

The latest of his persistent attack is that democracy is in serious danger under Modi and that Modi is subverting all democratic institution. Then he goes on and blames Modi and BJP for not letting Parliament function, which is such a barefaced propaganda as it is Congress who has been blocking Parliament right since 2014 when Modi assumed power.

Now coming back to Rahul's claim that democracy is being subverted by Modi. His audacity needs to be saluted. It is hilarious to say the least.

Rahul needs to peep into history and see how his father and grandmother handled the democratic values in this country in past.

Jawaharlal Nehru deserves an unequivocal credit for upholding the democracy in India and in the Congress. After the death of Patel in 1950, Nehru was the undisputed leader but he never took advantage of the situation. If democracy has been deep-rooted in India, then Nehru as the first premier (for good 17 years) is one of the biggest reasons.

But once Indira took over in 1966, situation veered in a different direction. Indira first subverted - rather curbed - internal democracy within Congress and converted party into a sort of family venture. She shunted all old Congress stalwarts ruthlessly.

If you believe that the moment when Indira imposed Emergency in 1975 was the only moment Congress tried to supress democracy in India, you are mistaken.

The decade of the 80s (1980-89) was the last time when the family member of Gandhi/Nehru family ruled the country. Indira from 1980 till 1984 (till her assassination) and Rajiv from 1984 till 1989, when VP Singh-led Janta Dal dethroned Congress.

During this period, Indira and Rajiv became undisputed power centres and democratic values took a complete back seat. Congress-led central government misused Article 356 of the Constitution in a brazen manner to topple non-Congress state governments, through Governors of states. All the Governors were basically picked by Indira/Rajiv on the sole criteria of their loyalty towards the family.

In 1984, Governor of Andhra Pradesh Thakur Ram Lal (a mediocre Congressman from Himachal but a big-time Indira loyalist) removed N T Rama Rao when the latter was in the US for a surgery. Thakur Ram Lal appointed a former Congressman Bhaskara Rao as chief minister. NTR hit hard after he came back from the US. After a month-long drama, Indira realised that this plan to thwart NTR would not work. She made Ram Lal a scapegoat and sacked him NTR forced his way to the power.

In April 1989, S R Bommai-led government in Karnataka was dismissed and President's Rule was imposed on frivolous and unjustified reasons. The matter went to court and the court decreed restrictions on the Centre's power to dismiss a state government under Article 356.

Not only Governor's office but the office of chief minister was also grossly undermined, particularly by Rajiv Gandhi. During 1984-89, Rajiv was appointing and replacing CMs in Congress-ruled states solely on his whims. His picks were not based on how strong connect the incumbent had with the ground and the state politics and again the sole criterion was his loyalty to Rajiv Gandhi. In Bihar alone, Congress had four chief ministers in five years during 1985-1990. Congress paid a heavy price of this immaturity of Rajiv Gandhi as the party lost people's connect in two largest states of UP and Bihar and never came to power after 1990 and today Congress is at the brink of extinction in these two states.

Coming to the institutions now. During 1984-89, state-run broadcaster Doordarshan (DD) virtually became a Congress-owned channel. During those days, DD used to air a 20 minutes news capsule and 10-15 minutes were covered for a recap of what Rajiv did during the day. As an ultimate epitome of politics of appeasement, Rajiv Gandhi enacted a law in Parliament after Supreme Court's ruling in regard to famous Shah Bano case. The law diluted or rather nullified ruling of India's highest court.

Rahul Gandhi needs to realise that there is no point making such statements. Given the past Congress has, Rahul can never create a narrative by raising this issue. In case BJP hits back with Congress's misadventures with democracy in the past (which PM does often, particularly in Parliament), Rahul will have no answer. Rahul Gandhi needs to ponder over what his father and grandmother did to the democracy in this country before he points the finger at others.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Rahul needs to peep into history and see how his father and grandmother handled the democratic values in this country in past.

First thing first. Rahul Gandhi is not a true politician. He simply is a mascot of the Congress party and all his actions and words are directed and scripted by his advisers and the party's few prominent veterans. Notwithstanding above, whatever he says, reflects the stand of the party at the end of the day. Rahul's team decides his punch lines and issues, which he needs to raise and then he starts harping on them, rather mindlessly. The latest of his persistent attack is that democracy is in serious danger under Modi and that Modi is subverting all democratic institution. Then he goes on and blames Modi and BJP for not letting Parliament function, which is such a barefaced propaganda as it is Congress who has been blocking Parliament right since 2014 when Modi assumed power. Now coming back to Rahul's claim that democracy is being subverted by Modi. His audacity needs to be saluted. It is hilarious to say the least. Rahul needs to peep into history and see how his father and grandmother handled the democratic values in this country in past. Jawaharlal Nehru deserves an unequivocal credit for upholding the democracy in India and in the Congress. After the death of Patel in 1950, Nehru was the undisputed leader but he never took advantage of the situation. If democracy has been deep-rooted in India, then Nehru as the first premier (for good 17 years) is one of the biggest reasons. But once Indira took over in 1966, situation veered in a different direction. Indira first subverted - rather curbed - internal democracy within Congress and converted party into a sort of family venture. She shunted all old Congress stalwarts ruthlessly. If you believe that the moment when Indira imposed Emergency in 1975 was the only moment Congress tried to supress democracy in India, you are mistaken. The decade of the 80s (1980-89) was the last time when the family member of Gandhi/Nehru family ruled the country. Indira from 1980 till 1984 (till her assassination) and Rajiv from 1984 till 1989, when VP Singh-led Janta Dal dethroned Congress. During this period, Indira and Rajiv became undisputed power centres and democratic values took a complete back seat. Congress-led central government misused Article 356 of the Constitution in a brazen manner to topple non-Congress state governments, through Governors of states. All the Governors were basically picked by Indira/Rajiv on the sole criteria of their loyalty towards the family. In 1984, Governor of Andhra Pradesh Thakur Ram Lal (a mediocre Congressman from Himachal but a big-time Indira loyalist) removed N T Rama Rao when the latter was in the US for a surgery. Thakur Ram Lal appointed a former Congressman Bhaskara Rao as chief minister. NTR hit hard after he came back from the US. After a month-long drama, Indira realised that this plan to thwart NTR would not work. She made Ram Lal a scapegoat and sacked him NTR forced his way to the power. In April 1989, S R Bommai-led government in Karnataka was dismissed and President's Rule was imposed on frivolous and unjustified reasons. The matter went to court and the court decreed restrictions on the Centre's power to dismiss a state government under Article 356. Not only Governor's office but the office of chief minister was also grossly undermined, particularly by Rajiv Gandhi. During 1984-89, Rajiv was appointing and replacing CMs in Congress-ruled states solely on his whims. His picks were not based on how strong connect the incumbent had with the ground and the state politics and again the sole criterion was his loyalty to Rajiv Gandhi. In Bihar alone, Congress had four chief ministers in five years during 1985-1990. Congress paid a heavy price of this immaturity of Rajiv Gandhi as the party lost people's connect in two largest states of UP and Bihar and never came to power after 1990 and today Congress is at the brink of extinction in these two states. Coming to the institutions now. During 1984-89, state-run broadcaster Doordarshan (DD) virtually became a Congress-owned channel. During those days, DD used to air a 20 minutes news capsule and 10-15 minutes were covered for a recap of what Rajiv did during the day. As an ultimate epitome of politics of appeasement, Rajiv Gandhi enacted a law in Parliament after Supreme Court's ruling in regard to famous Shah Bano case. The law diluted or rather nullified ruling of India's highest court. Rahul Gandhi needs to realise that there is no point making such statements. Given the past Congress has, Rahul can never create a narrative by raising this issue. In case BJP hits back with Congress's misadventures with democracy in the past (which PM does often, particularly in Parliament), Rahul will have no answer. Rahul Gandhi needs to ponder over what his father and grandmother did to the democracy in this country before he points the finger at others. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: What Rahul Gandhi needs to realise before pointing fingers at BJP

While addressing a rally in Mysore for the upcoming Karnataka polls in the state, Prime Minister Modi&nbsp;responded to Congress president Rahul Gandhi&nbsp;over his "15 minute" comment.

Hitting at the Congress President PM Modi said, "Can Rahul speak for 15 minutes?"

He further Rahul Gandhi and asked him to talk about his achievements without reading from any paper for 15 minutes.

He said, "I challenge you (Rahul Gandhi) to speak for 15 minutes on the achievements of your government in Karnataka without reading from any piece of paper. You can speak in Hindi, English or your mother tongue. He (Rahul Gandhi) had challenged me that if he speaks for 15 minutes then I will not be able to stand in front of him. Yes, you are right, you are a 'naamdar', what right do we 'kaamdaars' have to even sit in front of you".

Rahul Gandhi had earlier demanded a 15-minute debate with PM Modi in Parliament.

Gandhi was addressing "Save the Constitution" campaign in Delhi where he had targetted Modi government over farmers' issue, rising&nbsp;crime against women and corruption. He had also asked the prime minister to have a one on one debate with him for 15 minutes.

Gandhi had said, " Modi is afraid to stand in Parliament... If I am allowed to speak for 15 minutes on Rafale issue in Parliament before Modi, he will not be able to withstand it".

The BJP then&nbsp;hit back at Rahul saying that "the leader who cannot write 15 lines without looking at his phone, wants to talk for 15 minutes".

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I challenge you (Rahul Gandhi) to speak for 15 minutes on the achievements of your government in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a> without reading from any piece of paper. You can speak in Hindi, English or your mother tongue: PM Modi in Mysuru <a href="https://t.co/BqVx9XThya">pic.twitter.com/BqVx9XThya</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/991211141077577728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi had earlier demanded a 15-minute debate with PM Modi in Parliament

While addressing a rally in Mysore for the upcoming Karnataka polls in the state, Prime Minister Modi responded to Congress president Rahul Gandhi over his "15 minute" comment. Hitting at the Congress President PM Modi said, "Can Rahul speak for 15 minutes?" He further Rahul Gandhi and asked him to talk about his achievements without reading from any paper for 15 minutes. He said, "I challenge you (Rahul Gandhi) to speak for 15 minutes on the achievements of your government in Karnataka without reading from any piece of paper. You can speak in Hindi, English or your mother tongue. He (Rahul Gandhi) had challenged me that if he speaks for 15 minutes then I will not be able to stand in front of him. Yes, you are right, you are a 'naamdar', what right do we 'kaamdaars' have to even sit in front of you". Rahul Gandhi had earlier demanded a 15-minute debate with PM Modi in Parliament. Gandhi was addressing "Save the Constitution" campaign in Delhi where he had targetted Modi government over farmers' issue, rising crime against women and corruption. He had also asked the prime minister to have a one on one debate with him for 15 minutes. Gandhi had said, " Modi is afraid to stand in Parliament... If I am allowed to speak for 15 minutes on Rafale issue in Parliament before Modi, he will not be able to withstand it". The BJP then hit back at Rahul saying that "the leader who cannot write 15 lines without looking at his phone, wants to talk for 15 minutes". I challenge you (Rahul Gandhi) to speak for 15 minutes on the achievements of your government in #Karnataka without reading from any piece of paper. You can speak in Hindi, English or your mother tongue: PM Modi in Mysuru pic.twitter.com/BqVx9XThya — ANI (@ANI) May 1, 2018 ×

'Can Rahul Gandhi speak for 15 minutes?' Modi asks at Karnataka rally

After PM Modi took a dig at<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-kicks-off-election-rally-in-karnataka--133940"> Karnataka chief minister at </a>an election rally, Siddaramaiah hit back saying the BJP won't cross the 60-70-seat margin.

Addressing an election rally for the first time in Karnataka's Mysuru, the PM had said: BJP will sweep the state, not a wave but a BJP storm will hit Karnataka."&nbsp;

Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah took a dig at the prime minister, saying: "Was it fear that drove you to contest from two parliamentary constituencies (Varanasi & Vadodara)."

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Was it fear that drove you to contest from 2 parliamentary constituencies (Varanasi & Vadodara) Mr. PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ? Of course you are a 56 inch man, you would have some clever explanation!! 
 
Forget 2 seats, Sir. Worry about the fact that your party will not cross 60-70! <a href="https://t.co/Hr3V5x6sDE">https://t.co/Hr3V5x6sDE</a>
— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) <a href="https://twitter.com/siddaramaiah/status/991215792334270464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"Of course you are a 56-inch man, you would have some clever explanation!!"

During the rally, PM Modi had said the people of Karnataka will decide if they want "family politics" or "people's politics".

Siddaramaiah followed up his remarks, saying: "Forget two seats, Sir. Worry about the fact that your party will not cross 60-70."

During the rally, PM Modi took a jibe at Rahul Gandhi asserting that the Congress vice-president couldn't even "speak for 15 minutes on Karnataka's development". PM Modi challenged Rahul Gandhi to speak on Karnataka's development without reading from any piece of paper in Hindi, English or "your mother tongue".

This is PM Modi's first election rally in the state which goes to the polls on May 12th. The prime minister is set to address another two rallies in Udupi and Belagavi.

His next stop will be in Udupi at 3pm today where he will visit Krishna Mutt and take blessings of the Pejawar seer before addressing a public rally at AGM College Ground.

Later the prime minister will address a rally in Chikkodi at 6pm.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/u-KbZ2m14vg" width="560"></iframe>

During the rally, PM Modi had said the people of Karnataka will decide if they want "family politics" or "people's politics".

After PM Modi took a dig at Karnataka chief minister at an election rally, Siddaramaiah hit back saying the BJP won't cross the 60-70-seat margin. Addressing an election rally for the first time in Karnataka's Mysuru, the PM had said: BJP will sweep the state, not a wave but a BJP storm will hit Karnataka." Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah took a dig at the prime minister, saying: "Was it fear that drove you to contest from two parliamentary constituencies (Varanasi & Vadodara)." Was it fear that drove you to contest from 2 parliamentary constituencies (Varanasi & Vadodara) Mr. PM @narendramodi ? Of course you are a 56 inch man, you would have some clever explanation!! Forget 2 seats, Sir. Worry about the fact that your party will not cross 60-70! https://t.co/Hr3V5x6sDE — Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) May 1, 2018 × "Of course you are a 56-inch man, you would have some clever explanation!!" During the rally, PM Modi had said the people of Karnataka will decide if they want "family politics" or "people's politics". Siddaramaiah followed up his remarks, saying: "Forget two seats, Sir. Worry about the fact that your party will not cross 60-70." During the rally, PM Modi took a jibe at Rahul Gandhi asserting that the Congress vice-president couldn't even "speak for 15 minutes on Karnataka's development". PM Modi challenged Rahul Gandhi to speak on Karnataka's development without reading from any piece of paper in Hindi, English or "your mother tongue". This is PM Modi's first election rally in the state which goes to the polls on May 12th. The prime minister is set to address another two rallies in Udupi and Belagavi. His next stop will be in Udupi at 3pm today where he will visit Krishna Mutt and take blessings of the Pejawar seer before addressing a public rally at AGM College Ground. Later the prime minister will address a rally in Chikkodi at 6pm.

'Was it fear that drove you to contest from two parliamentary constituencies?' Siddaramaiah asks Modi

12: 52 pm:&nbsp;Before questioning us Rahul Gandhi should know that in 2005 Manmohan Singh had said that all villages will be electrified by 2009, and the same thing was said by Sonia Gandhi ji and you(Rahul ) mock the labourers &nbsp;and workers who made this (electrification) possible: PM Modi&nbsp;

12: 50 pm: On Lokayukta, the PM said: "In Karnataka, there is no law and order. The Lokayukta is not safe, how can the common people be safe."

12: 49 pm: "If CM has a 2+1 formula then ministers have 1+1 formula. Relatives of ministers are fighting polls. This is hurting the workers of the Congress, the PM said.&nbsp;

12:48 pm: Vote for BJP is a vote for vikas&nbsp;(development), he said in his closing remarks.

12:47 pm: Why is there no proper access to safe drinking water in Karnataka: Modi

12:45 pm: Only NDA is working for the benefit of farmers, he declared.

12:44 pm: Whenever there is Congress, there is corruption, he said.

12:38 pm: Congress is naamdaar&nbsp;(those who pretend to work), BJP is kaamdaar(doer), Modi said, adding, family&nbsp;politics will not work.&nbsp;&nbsp;

12:32 pm: Rahul can't even pronounce the names of his party leaders, the prime minister said.

12:27 pm: Can Rahul Gandhi even speak for 15 minutes on Karnataka's development without reading from any piece of paper, PM Modi said while taking a dig at Congress vice-president.

You can speak in Hindi, English or your mother tongue, he added.

12:22 pm:&nbsp;I want to dedicate the historical achievement of the country on 28th April, when all villages in India were electrified, to the workers and labourers of the country on this Labour day, PM Modi said.

12:20 pm: Taking a dig at the Congress government, the prime asked: Why are 4 crore people without electricity in the state? Want electricity in every household, he declared.

12:16 pm: BJP will sweep Karnataka elections, he said.

12:12 pm:&nbsp;In his first election rally in Karnataka, PM Modi said not a wave but a BJP storm will hit Karnataka

12:13pm: Sitting with the next BJP chief minister(Yeddyurappa who is present at the poll rally)

Earlier, PM Modi along with BJP <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-elections-bjp-registers-complaint-against-jignesh-mewani-prakash-raj-for-comments-on-pm-modi-133878">president Amit Shah arrived</a> in Karnataka's Senthemarahalli village in Chamarajanagar district on Tuesday to kick-start his poll rally today.

This is PM Modi's first rally in Karnataka ever since the polls were announced two months ago. The Prime Minister will address a string of rallies in Karnataka over the next five days including three today in Mysuru, Udupi and Belagavi.

His next stop today will be at Udupi at 3pm where he will visit Krishna Mutt and take blessings of the Pejawar seer before addressing a public rally at AGM College Ground at 3pm.&nbsp;

Later on Tuesday, the prime minister will address another public gathering in Chikkodi at 6pm.

Karnataka which is being led by a chief minister Siddaramaiah's Congress government will go to the polls on 12th May with the results to be announced three days later on 15th.

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This is PM Modi's first rally in Karnataka ever since the polls were announced two months ago.

12: 52 pm: Before questioning us Rahul Gandhi should know that in 2005 Manmohan Singh had said that all villages will be electrified by 2009, and the same thing was said by Sonia Gandhi ji and you(Rahul ) mock the labourers and workers who made this (electrification) possible: PM Modi 12: 50 pm: On Lokayukta, the PM said: "In Karnataka, there is no law and order. The Lokayukta is not safe, how can the common people be safe." 12: 49 pm: "If CM has a 2+1 formula then ministers have 1+1 formula. Relatives of ministers are fighting polls. This is hurting the workers of the Congress, the PM said. 12:48 pm: Vote for BJP is a vote for vikas (development), he said in his closing remarks. 12:47 pm: Why is there no proper access to safe drinking water in Karnataka: Modi 12:45 pm: Only NDA is working for the benefit of farmers, he declared. 12:44 pm: Whenever there is Congress, there is corruption, he said. 12:38 pm: Congress is naamdaar (those who pretend to work), BJP is kaamdaar(doer), Modi said, adding, family politics will not work. 12:32 pm: Rahul can't even pronounce the names of his party leaders, the prime minister said. 12:27 pm: Can Rahul Gandhi even speak for 15 minutes on Karnataka's development without reading from any piece of paper, PM Modi said while taking a dig at Congress vice-president. You can speak in Hindi, English or your mother tongue, he added. 12:22 pm: I want to dedicate the historical achievement of the country on 28th April, when all villages in India were electrified, to the workers and labourers of the country on this Labour day, PM Modi said. 12:20 pm: Taking a dig at the Congress government, the prime asked: Why are 4 crore people without electricity in the state? Want electricity in every household, he declared. 12:16 pm: BJP will sweep Karnataka elections, he said. 12:12 pm: In his first election rally in Karnataka, PM Modi said not a wave but a BJP storm will hit Karnataka 12:13pm: Sitting with the next BJP chief minister(Yeddyurappa who is present at the poll rally) Earlier, PM Modi along with BJP president Amit Shah arrived in Karnataka's Senthemarahalli village in Chamarajanagar district on Tuesday to kick-start his poll rally today. This is PM Modi's first rally in Karnataka ever since the polls were announced two months ago. The Prime Minister will address a string of rallies in Karnataka over the next five days including three today in Mysuru, Udupi and Belagavi. His next stop today will be at Udupi at 3pm where he will visit Krishna Mutt and take blessings of the Pejawar seer before addressing a public rally at AGM College Ground at 3pm. Later on Tuesday, the prime minister will address another public gathering in Chikkodi at 6pm. Karnataka which is being led by a chief minister Siddaramaiah's Congress government will go to the polls on 12th May with the results to be announced three days later on 15th.

Can Rahul Gandhi speak on Karnataka's development for 15 minutes, asks PM Modi in poll rally

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Monday met RJD Chief Lalu Prasad Yadav at All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).

Lalu Prasad Yadav is undergoing treatment at AIIMS for various ailments related to heart and kidney.

Prasad&nbsp;was admitted to the AIIMS for specialised treatment after being referred by the Rajendra Institute of Medical Science (RIMS) in Ranchi. He had been admitted to RIMS in Ranchi on March 17 over complaints of uneasiness while he was lodged at the Birsa Munda Jail.

The former Bihar chief minister has been convicted in four fodder scam cases since 2013 -- the latest being the Dumka treasury case, in which a special CBI court sentenced him to 14 years in jail.

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Congress President Rahul Gandhi met RJD Chief Lalu Prasad Yadav at AIIMS in Delhi. <a href="https://t.co/glpkGIX5tn">pic.twitter.com/glpkGIX5tn</a>
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Delhi: Congress President Rahul Gandhi met RJD Chief Lalu Prasad Yadav at All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). Lalu Prasad Yadav is undergoing treatment for various ailments related to heart and kidney. <a href="https://t.co/qc0NCvxu5m">pic.twitter.com/qc0NCvxu5m</a>
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Lalu Prasad Yadav is undergoing treatment at AIIMS for various ailments related to heart and kidney.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Monday met RJD Chief Lalu Prasad Yadav at All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). Lalu Prasad Yadav is undergoing treatment at AIIMS for various ailments related to heart and kidney. Prasad was admitted to the AIIMS for specialised treatment after being referred by the Rajendra Institute of Medical Science (RIMS) in Ranchi. He had been admitted to RIMS in Ranchi on March 17 over complaints of uneasiness while he was lodged at the Birsa Munda Jail. The former Bihar chief minister has been convicted in four fodder scam cases since 2013 -- the latest being the Dumka treasury case, in which a special CBI court sentenced him to 14 years in jail. Congress President Rahul Gandhi met RJD Chief Lalu Prasad Yadav at AIIMS in Delhi. pic.twitter.com/glpkGIX5tn — ANI (@ANI) April 30, 2018 × Delhi: Congress President Rahul Gandhi met RJD Chief Lalu Prasad Yadav at All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). Lalu Prasad Yadav is undergoing treatment for various ailments related to heart and kidney. pic.twitter.com/qc0NCvxu5m — ANI (@ANI) April 30, 2018 ×

Rahul Gandhi meets RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav at AIIMS in Delhi

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Sunday said that he intends to go on a pilgrimage to Kailash Mansarovar in Tibet after the Karnataka elections.&nbsp

The Gandhi's pilgrimage announcement comes days after a mid-air scare while flying to poll-bound Karnataka.

He recalled that while on board a plane bound for Karnataka, the aircraft nosedived and the thought of visiting the abode of Lord Shiva flashed through his mind.

"I want to take your (workers`) permission. Two-three days back, we were going to Karnataka. Suddenly, our aircraft took a nosedive -- it went down about 8,000 feet.&nbsp

"I was in the aircraft... I thought it was the end. Then, a second thought came to my mind -- I want to visit Kailash.

"I want to go to Kailash Mansarovar. So, I would seek 10-15 days of leave from you after the Karnataka elections so that I can go there and come back," he added.

The Congress had complained to the Karnataka Police on Thursday that the aircraft carrying Rahul Gandhi from Delhi to Hubli earlier in the day suffered "unexplained technical snags" mid-air.

The Gandhi's pilgrimage announcement comes days after a mid-air scare while flying to poll-bound Karnataka.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Sunday said that he intends to go on a pilgrimage to Kailash Mansarovar in Tibet after the Karnataka elections. The Gandhi's pilgrimage announcement comes days after a mid-air scare while flying to poll-bound Karnataka. He recalled that while on board a plane bound for Karnataka, the aircraft nosedived and the thought of visiting the abode of Lord Shiva flashed through his mind. "I want to take your (workers`) permission. Two-three days back, we were going to Karnataka. Suddenly, our aircraft took a nosedive -- it went down about 8,000 feet. "I was in the aircraft... I thought it was the end. Then, a second thought came to my mind -- I want to visit Kailash. "I want to go to Kailash Mansarovar. So, I would seek 10-15 days of leave from you after the Karnataka elections so that I can go there and come back," he added. The Congress had complained to the Karnataka Police on Thursday that the aircraft carrying Rahul Gandhi from Delhi to Hubli earlier in the day suffered "unexplained technical snags" mid-air.

Rahul Gandhi to visit Kailash Mansarovar after Karnataka polls

Congress President Rahul Gandhi will address a public rally at the Ramlila Ground here on Sunday to showcase 'Jan Aakrosh' (public outrage) over alleged failures and corruption of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government.

This rally will be Gandhi's first in Delhi since assuming the post of Congress president.

The rally comes ahead of the Karnataka Assembly elections, which will take place on May 12.

Former Congress president Sonia Gandhi, former prime minister Manmohan Singh, prominent leaders like Ghulam Nabi Azad and others will also address the rally.

According to reports, key issues related to farmers, women, national security, CBSE paper leaks, etc. would be raised at the rally.

The rally comes ahead of the Karnataka Assembly elections, which will take place on May 12.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi will address a public rally at the Ramlila Ground here on Sunday to showcase 'Jan Aakrosh' (public outrage) over alleged failures and corruption of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government. This rally will be Gandhi's first in Delhi since assuming the post of Congress president. The rally comes ahead of the Karnataka Assembly elections, which will take place on May 12. Former Congress president Sonia Gandhi, former prime minister Manmohan Singh, prominent leaders like Ghulam Nabi Azad and others will also address the rally. According to reports, key issues related to farmers, women, national security, CBSE paper leaks, etc. would be raised at the rally.

Rahul Gandhi to address 'Jan Aakrosh' rally in Delhi today

While addressing the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-slams-prime-minister-narendra-modi-at-jan-aakrosh-rally-in-delhi-133556"> Jan Aakrosh Rally in Delhi</a>, Congress President Rahul Gandhi hit out at PM Modi and his recent visit to China.

Gandhi said, "The Chinese are aggressively pursuing militarisation in Doklam. Despite this, all that PM Modi does is hold a " no agenda" meeting with the Chinese President".

Gandhi targetted PM Modi for his recent visit to meet Chinese President at Wuhan.The meeting dubbed as "informal" is expected to bring a significant turn in India-China relations after the 73-day standoff over Doklam last year.

He also targetted PM Modi over Rafael Deal, Nirav Modi scam, recent rapes in the country, farmer debt, demonetisation and GST.

The "Jan Akrosh Rally" comes shortly ahead of the crucial Karnataka elections to be held on May 12.&nbsp;

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The Chinese are aggressively pursuing militarisation in Doklam. Despite this, all that PM Modi does is hold a "no-agenda" meeting with the Chinese President: Congress President Rahul Gandhi at Jan Aakrosh Rally in Delhi <a href="https://t.co/DedU2JUCdT">pic.twitter.com/DedU2JUCdT</a>
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Gandhi said, 'The Chinese are aggressively pursuing militarisation in Doklam. Despite this, all that PM Modi does is hold a 'no agenda' meeting with the Chinese President

While addressing the Jan Aakrosh Rally in Delhi, Congress President Rahul Gandhi hit out at PM Modi and his recent visit to China. Gandhi said, "The Chinese are aggressively pursuing militarisation in Doklam. Despite this, all that PM Modi does is hold a " no agenda" meeting with the Chinese President". Gandhi targetted PM Modi for his recent visit to meet Chinese President at Wuhan.The meeting dubbed as "informal" is expected to bring a significant turn in India-China relations after the 73-day standoff over Doklam last year. He also targetted PM Modi over Rafael Deal, Nirav Modi scam, recent rapes in the country, farmer debt, demonetisation and GST. The "Jan Akrosh Rally" comes shortly ahead of the crucial Karnataka elections to be held on May 12. The Chinese are aggressively pursuing militarisation in Doklam. Despite this, all that PM Modi does is hold a "no-agenda" meeting with the Chinese President: Congress President Rahul Gandhi at Jan Aakrosh Rally in Delhi pic.twitter.com/DedU2JUCdT — ANI (@ANI) April 29, 2018 ×

Rahul Gandhi attacks PM Modi's  'no agenda' meet with Chinese President, says China is undertaking militarisation in Doklam

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Thursday clarified that the technical snag during Congress President <a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/india-news/after-rahul-gandhis-plane-develops-technical-snag-congress-demands-probe-citing-suspicion--133116">Rahul Gandhi's flight</a> to Hubli is common, reports said.

The DGA issued the clarification after the Congress hinted at intentional tampering with Rahul Gandhi's special flight from New Delhi to Hubli on Thursday morning and lodged a police complaint in this regard.

"It was snag of autopilot mode and pilot shifted to manual mode and landed safely. Such autopilot incidents are not uncommon," the DGCA said in a statement.

It added that for any VIP flight, the DGCA examines all the issues in details and will do the same in this case also.

Earlier, Rahul Gandhi's aide Kaushal Vidyarthee sent a complaint letter to Karnataka Director General of Police and Inspector General of Police Neelamani N. Raju and demanded to investigate the incident and ground the aircraft till the investigation is completed.

The complainant said that several "unexplained technical errors" happened during the course of the two-hour morning flight and demanded a thorough investigation.

"Serious questions related to intentional tampering with the aircraft cannot also be brushed aside and are required to be addressed and investigated," the complainant demanded.&nbsp;

The DGA issued the clarification after the Congress hinted at intentional tampering with Rahul Gandhi's special flight from New Delhi to Hubli on Thursday morning and lodged a police complaint in this regard.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Thursday clarified that the technical snag during Congress President Rahul Gandhi's flight to Hubli is common, reports said. The DGA issued the clarification after the Congress hinted at intentional tampering with Rahul Gandhi's special flight from New Delhi to Hubli on Thursday morning and lodged a police complaint in this regard. "It was snag of autopilot mode and pilot shifted to manual mode and landed safely. Such autopilot incidents are not uncommon," the DGCA said in a statement. It added that for any VIP flight, the DGCA examines all the issues in details and will do the same in this case also. Earlier, Rahul Gandhi's aide Kaushal Vidyarthee sent a complaint letter to Karnataka Director General of Police and Inspector General of Police Neelamani N. Raju and demanded to investigate the incident and ground the aircraft till the investigation is completed. The complainant said that several "unexplained technical errors" happened during the course of the two-hour morning flight and demanded a thorough investigation. "Serious questions related to intentional tampering with the aircraft cannot also be brushed aside and are required to be addressed and investigated," the complainant demanded.

DGCA terms technical snag during Rahul Gandhi's flight as 'common'

Congress Chief Rahul Gandhi released party manifesto for the upcoming Karnataka polls earlier today. Gandhi noted that the manifesto is the 'Mann ki baat' for Karnataka people.&nbsp;

"Our manifesto is the voice of Karnataka, it shows Karnataka's sentiments" Rahul Gandhi noted during his address at TMA Pai Convention Hall in Mangaluru.

The Congress chief went on to say that his party believes in Basava's philosophy. Reacting to PM Modi's remarks made on the Congress yesterday during his live address to &nbsp;Karnataka BJP candidates, Rahul Gandhi noted that the Congress stands for truth.&nbsp;

He lashed out at the BJP saying that the BJP that does not stand for what they say and promise. "In our last manifesto, 95 percent of things we said have been done," Gandhi said.

"The Prime Minister guaranteed a corruption-free government but we see scams after scams," Gandhi exclaimed. He alluded to the multi-billion dollar PNB scam and fraudsters like Nirav Modi who were able to execute such scams "under PM Modi's rule".&nbsp;

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Mangalore: CM Siddaramaiah, Congress President Rahul Gandhi and other senior party leaders launch Congress party's manifesto for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a>. Rahul Gandhi says,'Whatever the manifesto says will be done, 95% of what was mentioned in the last manifesto has been done.' <a href="https://t.co/p5J81iRW7R">pic.twitter.com/p5J81iRW7R</a>
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"Why would you want to give votes to corrupt Reddys?" Gandhi reasoned.&nbsp;

Yesterday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed BJP candidates for the upcoming Karnataka assembly polls. He stated his party's agenda for Karnataka is "development that is fast-paced and all-rounded".&nbsp;

The PM accused the Congress of hiring foreign companies for spreading lies.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi-led Congress and the Bhartiya Janta Party are currently in full swing to lure the voters for the upcoming Karnataka assembly elections.

The polls to the 224-member Karnataka Assembly will be held on May 12. The southern state is slated to witness a three-corner contest involving the ruling Congress, the BJP and the H D Deve Gowda-led JD(S). The result of the polls will be announced on May 15.

The Congress chief went on to say that his party believes in Basava's philosophy

Congress Chief Rahul Gandhi released party manifesto for the upcoming Karnataka polls earlier today. Gandhi noted that the manifesto is the 'Mann ki baat' for Karnataka people. "Our manifesto is the voice of Karnataka, it shows Karnataka's sentiments" Rahul Gandhi noted during his address at TMA Pai Convention Hall in Mangaluru. The Congress chief went on to say that his party believes in Basava's philosophy. Reacting to PM Modi's remarks made on the Congress yesterday during his live address to Karnataka BJP candidates, Rahul Gandhi noted that the Congress stands for truth. He lashed out at the BJP saying that the BJP that does not stand for what they say and promise. "In our last manifesto, 95 percent of things we said have been done," Gandhi said. "The Prime Minister guaranteed a corruption-free government but we see scams after scams," Gandhi exclaimed. He alluded to the multi-billion dollar PNB scam and fraudsters like Nirav Modi who were able to execute such scams "under PM Modi's rule". Mangalore: CM Siddaramaiah, Congress President Rahul Gandhi and other senior party leaders launch Congress party's manifesto for #KarnatakaElections2018. Rahul Gandhi says,'Whatever the manifesto says will be done, 95% of what was mentioned in the last manifesto has been done.' pic.twitter.com/p5J81iRW7R — ANI (@ANI) April 27, 2018 × "Why would you want to give votes to corrupt Reddys?" Gandhi reasoned. Yesterday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed BJP candidates for the upcoming Karnataka assembly polls. He stated his party's agenda for Karnataka is "development that is fast-paced and all-rounded". The PM accused the Congress of hiring foreign companies for spreading lies. Rahul Gandhi-led Congress and the Bhartiya Janta Party are currently in full swing to lure the voters for the upcoming Karnataka assembly elections. The polls to the 224-member Karnataka Assembly will be held on May 12. The southern state is slated to witness a three-corner contest involving the ruling Congress, the BJP and the H D Deve Gowda-led JD(S). The result of the polls will be announced on May 15.

Rahul Gandhi releases Karnataka manifesto, calls it 'Mann ki baat' of people of state

Congress demanded a&nbsp;probe into the "suspicious and faulty performance" of the aircraft that carried Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday. The chopper&nbsp;developed a technical snag before landing at the Hubballi airport in north Karnataka.&nbsp;

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation said in New Delhi that it would examine the issue, while the police said they have registered a complaint.

The plane suddenly tilted heavily on the left side and the altitude dipped steeply with violent shuddering of the aircraft body at 10.45 am, Gandhi's close aide Kaushal Vidyarthi wrote in a letter to state DGP Neelmani N Raju.

The letter said the weather was normal and not windy according to the passengers.

"It was apparent from the suspicious and faulty performance of the aircraft that the incidents of shuddering and altitude dipping were not natural or weather-related, but were due to some technical snag...," it said.

"Serious questions related to intentional tampering with the aircraft cannot also be brushed aside and are requested to be addressed and investigated," the letter read.

Gandhi is on a two-day visit to poll-bound Karnataka from Thursday to campaign for the party candidates in the districts of Uttara Kannada, Dahskina Kannada, Kodagu and Mysuru.

"Yes, we have received a complaint about some unexplained turbulence of the aircraft," Renuka Sukumar, DCP (Law and Order), Hubbali-Dharwad Police told PTI.

She said, "We have registered a complaint under Section 287 (negligent conduct with respect to machinery) and 336 (act endangering life or personal safety of others) of the IPC."

The complaint that names the two pilots was filed by KPCC General Secretary Shakir Sanadi, she said.

The letter said multiple "unexplained" technical snags coupled with the failure of the auto pilot system raised serious issues of aviation safety and possible and intentional tampering with aircraft which endangered the life of its occupants.

"A thorough examination of the structural and mechanical elements of the aircraft, the surrounding circumstances of the flight and the persons attached with maintenance of the aircraft is required in order to assess the incident," it said.

The letter said a "clankish noise" was clearly audible from one side of the plane throughout the shuddering of the aircraft body.

"It was learnt that the autopilot of the aircraft was not functioning," it said.

The plane landed at the Hubbali airport around 11.25 am in the third attempt., according to the letter.

"The crew was also apparently petrified and admitted that the flight was particularly frightening and uncommon," it said.

Congress's communications in-charge Randeep Surjewala said, "Rahul Gandhi landed safely... A serious accident was averted today."

He said a complaint has been sumbitted to the DGP Karnataka asking him to look into all aspects of the "serious, horrific incident", including foul play if any.

He said it was unprecedented that a flight carrying an SPG protectee would develop a snag.

Gandhi maintained his composure and tried to calm the co-passengers down, he said.

Another complaint has been filed with the DGCA, demanding a thorough inquiry into the incident, Surjewala added.

A senior DGCA official said, "The operator has reported the incident to us (DGCA). According to the operator's report, it was a snag of auto pilot mode and the pilot shifted to the manual (mode) and (the aircraft) landed safely.

"Shutdown of auto pilot (mode) incidents are not uncommon. For any VIP flight, the DGCA examines it in detail. We shall do that here also," the official told PTI.&nbsp;

Citing the report from the Air Traffic Controller, a senior official at the Hubbali airport said the plane had landed safely.

The plane suddenly tilted heavily on the left side and the altitude dipped steeply with violent shuddering of the aircraft body at 10.45 am, Gandhi's close aide Kaushal Vidyarthi wrote in a letter to state DGP Neelmani N Raju

Congress demanded a probe into the "suspicious and faulty performance" of the aircraft that carried Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday. The chopper developed a technical snag before landing at the Hubballi airport in north Karnataka. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation said in New Delhi that it would examine the issue, while the police said they have registered a complaint. The plane suddenly tilted heavily on the left side and the altitude dipped steeply with violent shuddering of the aircraft body at 10.45 am, Gandhi's close aide Kaushal Vidyarthi wrote in a letter to state DGP Neelmani N Raju. The letter said the weather was normal and not windy according to the passengers. "It was apparent from the suspicious and faulty performance of the aircraft that the incidents of shuddering and altitude dipping were not natural or weather-related, but were due to some technical snag...," it said. "Serious questions related to intentional tampering with the aircraft cannot also be brushed aside and are requested to be addressed and investigated," the letter read. Gandhi is on a two-day visit to poll-bound Karnataka from Thursday to campaign for the party candidates in the districts of Uttara Kannada, Dahskina Kannada, Kodagu and Mysuru. "Yes, we have received a complaint about some unexplained turbulence of the aircraft," Renuka Sukumar, DCP (Law and Order), Hubbali-Dharwad Police told PTI. She said, "We have registered a complaint under Section 287 (negligent conduct with respect to machinery) and 336 (act endangering life or personal safety of others) of the IPC." The complaint that names the two pilots was filed by KPCC General Secretary Shakir Sanadi, she said. The letter said multiple "unexplained" technical snags coupled with the failure of the auto pilot system raised serious issues of aviation safety and possible and intentional tampering with aircraft which endangered the life of its occupants. "A thorough examination of the structural and mechanical elements of the aircraft, the surrounding circumstances of the flight and the persons attached with maintenance of the aircraft is required in order to assess the incident," it said. The letter said a "clankish noise" was clearly audible from one side of the plane throughout the shuddering of the aircraft body. "It was learnt that the autopilot of the aircraft was not functioning," it said. The plane landed at the Hubbali airport around 11.25 am in the third attempt., according to the letter. "The crew was also apparently petrified and admitted that the flight was particularly frightening and uncommon," it said. Congress's communications in-charge Randeep Surjewala said, "Rahul Gandhi landed safely... A serious accident was averted today." He said a complaint has been sumbitted to the DGP Karnataka asking him to look into all aspects of the "serious, horrific incident", including foul play if any. He said it was unprecedented that a flight carrying an SPG protectee would develop a snag. Gandhi maintained his composure and tried to calm the co-passengers down, he said. Another complaint has been filed with the DGCA, demanding a thorough inquiry into the incident, Surjewala added. A senior DGCA official said, "The operator has reported the incident to us (DGCA). According to the operator's report, it was a snag of auto pilot mode and the pilot shifted to the manual (mode) and (the aircraft) landed safely. "Shutdown of auto pilot (mode) incidents are not uncommon. For any VIP flight, the DGCA examines it in detail. We shall do that here also," the official told PTI. Citing the report from the Air Traffic Controller, a senior official at the Hubbali airport said the plane had landed safely.

Congress demands probe after chopper carrying Rahul Gandhi develops snag

Congress president Rahul Gandhi today called Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to China as the one having "no agenda", but reminded him to raise the Doklam standoff with Chinese troops last year and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC) with the leadership there.

Gandhi mocked Modi, saying "you look tense" on the visit.

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Dear PM, 
 
Saw the live TV feed of your “No Agenda” China visit. 
 
You look tense! 
 
A quick reminder: 
 
1. DOKLAM 
2. China Pakistan Eco Corridor passes through POK. That’s Indian territory. 
 
India wants to hear you talk about these crucial issues. 
 
You have our support.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/989788654695567360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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However extending his party's support, he told the prime minister that India wants to hear him talk about these crucial issues - Doklam and CPEC - with China.

"Dear PM, Saw the live TV feed of your&nbsp"No Agenda"&nbspChina visit. You look tense! A quick reminder: 1. DOKLAM 2. China Pakistan Economic Corridor passes through POK. That's Indian territory. India wants to hear you talk about these crucial issues. You have our support," Gandhi said on Twitter.

Indian and Chinese troops were locked in a standoff in Doklam area last year. The face-off ended through negotiations after 73 days.

The CPEC, a part of the ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, runs through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and India opposes the controversial project.

Prime Minister Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping today began talks at an unprecedented two-day informal summit in Wuhan city in central China. During the visit, the two leaders will have a series of one-on-one conversations on bilateral, global and regional issues.

The CPEC, a part of the ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, runs through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and India opposes the controversial project.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi today called Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to China as the one having "no agenda", but reminded him to raise the Doklam standoff with Chinese troops last year and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC) with the leadership there. Gandhi mocked Modi, saying "you look tense" on the visit. Dear PM, Saw the live TV feed of your “No Agenda” China visit. You look tense! A quick reminder: 1. DOKLAM 2. China Pakistan Eco Corridor passes through POK. That’s Indian territory. India wants to hear you talk about these crucial issues. You have our support. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) April 27, 2018 × However extending his party's support, he told the prime minister that India wants to hear him talk about these crucial issues - Doklam and CPEC - with China. "Dear PM, Saw the live TV feed of your "No Agenda"&nbspChina visit. You look tense! A quick reminder: 1. DOKLAM 2. China Pakistan Economic Corridor passes through POK. That's Indian territory. India wants to hear you talk about these crucial issues. You have our support," Gandhi said on Twitter. Indian and Chinese troops were locked in a standoff in Doklam area last year. The face-off ended through negotiations after 73 days. The CPEC, a part of the ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, runs through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and India opposes the controversial project. Prime Minister Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping today began talks at an unprecedented two-day informal summit in Wuhan city in central China. During the visit, the two leaders will have a series of one-on-one conversations on bilateral, global and regional issues.

'No Agenda visit': 'Dear PM, please talk about Doklam, CPEC,' urges Rahul Gandhi

Congress president Rahul Gandhi will release the party’s manifesto for the upcoming Karnataka Assembly polls on April 27 in Mangalore, sources said on April 25.&nbsp

During his two-day seventh leg of campaigning in the southern state, which starts tomorrow, Gandhi would also visit parts of Uttara Kannada like Ankola city, Mastikatte Circle (Kumta), Saraswati Circle (Honnavar) and hold a corner meeting at Bhatkal, the party said in a statement on April 25.

“Rahulji will release the manifesto in Mangalore the day after tomorrow. It will be an all-encompassing document,” a Congress leader said, requesting anonymity. He refused to divulge more details but added that the manifesto would have “something” for all sections of the society.

In the run-up to the high-stakes Karnataka polls, Gandhi had asked the Congress leaders to prepare a “people’s manifesto”, after taking the feedback of all the stakeholders.

On Gandhi’s campaigning, the Congress leader said the party workers wanted him to focus on the areas he was yet to visit. So far, the Congress chief has held six rounds of campaigning in the southern state. The sixth phase of campaigning was on April 7-8.

The election to the 224-member Karnataka Assembly will be held on May 12. The southern state is slated to witness a three-corner contest involving the ruling Congress, the BJP and the H D Deve Gowda-led JD(S). The result of the polls will be announced on May 15.

The election to the 224-member Karnataka Assembly will be held on May 12. Karnataka is slated to witness a three-corner contest involving the ruling Congress, the BJP and the H D Deve Gowda-led JD(S).

Congress president Rahul Gandhi will release the party’s manifesto for the upcoming Karnataka Assembly polls on April 27 in Mangalore, sources said on April 25. During his two-day seventh leg of campaigning in the southern state, which starts tomorrow, Gandhi would also visit parts of Uttara Kannada like Ankola city, Mastikatte Circle (Kumta), Saraswati Circle (Honnavar) and hold a corner meeting at Bhatkal, the party said in a statement on April 25. “Rahulji will release the manifesto in Mangalore the day after tomorrow. It will be an all-encompassing document,” a Congress leader said, requesting anonymity. He refused to divulge more details but added that the manifesto would have “something” for all sections of the society. In the run-up to the high-stakes Karnataka polls, Gandhi had asked the Congress leaders to prepare a “people’s manifesto”, after taking the feedback of all the stakeholders. On Gandhi’s campaigning, the Congress leader said the party workers wanted him to focus on the areas he was yet to visit. So far, the Congress chief has held six rounds of campaigning in the southern state. The sixth phase of campaigning was on April 7-8. The election to the 224-member Karnataka Assembly will be held on May 12. The southern state is slated to witness a three-corner contest involving the ruling Congress, the BJP and the H D Deve Gowda-led JD(S). The result of the polls will be announced on May 15.

Karnataka Elections 2018: Rahul Gandhi to release Congress manifesto on April 27

Congress president Rahul Gandhi will launch his party's nationwide 'Save the Constitution' campaign on Monday. The campaign is aimed at highlighting alleged attacks on the Constitution and Dalits under the BJP-led regime.

Seen as the party's effort to reach out to the community ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, the campaign launch is expected to be attended by former prime minister Manmohan Singh, party general secretary Ghulam Nabi Azad, its senior leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Sushil Kumar Shinde among others, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

Congress's present and former Dalit lawmakers, those holding offices in zilla parishad, civic bodies and panchayat samitis, the party's office-bearers attached to its regional units will also attend the event, aimed at sensitising the attendees on the current state of affairs with regard to the community.

The attendees are expected to take the message forward, holding similar campaigns in states to reach out to the community members, PTI said quoting sources.

"The Constitution is under threat in the BJP regime. The community is being denied opportunities in spheres of education and jobs. The programme aims to highlight these issues nationwide," a party leader said.

Dalits form roughly 17 per cent of the country's electorate. There are 84 parliamentary seats reserved for candidates belonging to the scheduled castes. The BJP had bagged nearly half of the seats in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, reflecting in its success in politically key states such as Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

The leader noted that the Congress could win only three-fourth of the seats.&nbsp;

(With PTI inputs)&nbsp;

The attendees are expected to take the message forward, holding similar campaigns in states to reach out to the community members

Congress president Rahul Gandhi will launch his party's nationwide 'Save the Constitution' campaign on Monday. The campaign is aimed at highlighting alleged attacks on the Constitution and Dalits under the BJP-led regime. Seen as the party's effort to reach out to the community ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, the campaign launch is expected to be attended by former prime minister Manmohan Singh, party general secretary Ghulam Nabi Azad, its senior leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Sushil Kumar Shinde among others, news agency PTI reported. Congress's present and former Dalit lawmakers, those holding offices in zilla parishad, civic bodies and panchayat samitis, the party's office-bearers attached to its regional units will also attend the event, aimed at sensitising the attendees on the current state of affairs with regard to the community. The attendees are expected to take the message forward, holding similar campaigns in states to reach out to the community members, PTI said quoting sources. "The Constitution is under threat in the BJP regime. The community is being denied opportunities in spheres of education and jobs. The programme aims to highlight these issues nationwide," a party leader said. Dalits form roughly 17 per cent of the country's electorate. There are 84 parliamentary seats reserved for candidates belonging to the scheduled castes. The BJP had bagged nearly half of the seats in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, reflecting in its success in politically key states such as Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The leader noted that the Congress could win only three-fourth of the seats. (With PTI inputs)

Rahul to launch nationwide 'Save the Constitution' campaign today

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