Congress President Rahul Gandhi launched his "Save the Constitution" campaign on Monday.&nbsp;

The campaign, launched from Delhi's Talkatora stadium, is meant to highlight the plight of the Dalits in the country.&nbsp;

As expected, Rahul launched a broadside against PM Modi and his government at Talkatora.&nbsp;

"Just give me 15 minutess with Modiji. I will talk about Rafale and Nirav Modi and Modiii won't be able to stand. Everyone knows that Rafale is a corrupt deal and how Nirav Modi took away 30,000 crore and ran away, and how his friend is keeping silent."&nbsp;

"The Constitution saves our rights. The institutions in our country, whether it is EC, Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, Vidhan Sabha, IIT, IIM have been given to us by our constitution. Without the Constitution, nothing was possible," Rahul added.&nbsp;

"Modiji doesn't want anyone from his party to speak. He just want to do his Mann ki Baat," Rahul said. Adding, "An eight-year-old girl gets raped, a girl is raped in Unnao, but Modiji keeps silent about his MLA."&nbsp;

"India knows PM Modi has interest in just one thing, and it is PM Modiji," Rahul said.&nbsp;

He continued his attack, saying, "PM Modiji will come up with a new slogan. New slogan will be just 'Beti Bachao', beti padhao bhool jao. &nbsp;And who do the girls needs to be saved from... from BJP MLAs."

"India's reputation around the world has been destroyed by Modiji. &nbsp;Rapes, attrocities against Dalits, attacks on minorities is why India is now being talked about. The Congress built India's reputation in 70 years and Modiji has destroyed that reputation in four years."

"We defend the press. Even if you attack us, we defend you and this is the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/dont-give-the-media-too-much-masala-pm-modi-advices-party-members--132079">difference between them and us</a>. Congress belongs to the weaker section, women, shopkeepers," Rahul continued.&nbsp;

"The Congress party gave India its constitution and protected it. BJP and RSS people won't be able to touch the contitution ever. We won't let it happen and in the upcoming elections, people will tell Narendra Modji their Mann ki Baat."&nbsp;

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In his book 'Karmayog', PM Modi justifies manual scavenging by calling it a 'spiritual experience' for the Valmiki community. This speaks volumes about his anti-Dalit mindset: Rahul Gandhi, Congress President in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> <a href="https://t.co/yvmNvRY4x5">pic.twitter.com/yvmNvRY4x5</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/988320179804393472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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BJP President Amit Shah responded to Rahul's attack.&nbsp;

"If there is one party that has destroyed the spirit of our Constitution, it is the Congress. They do not want rule of democracy but they want rule of dynasty. Hence this is a farce of a movement by their President," he tweeted.&nbsp; 
​​

"Our institutions which are an outcome of our Constitution today need to be saved from the onslaught of the Congress Party. The Congress Party has spared no institution and is attacking the EC, Supreme Court, Army for petty political gains," Shah added.&nbsp;

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By repeatedly saying the Congress made the Constitution, <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> is carrying forward his family tradition of insulting Dr. Ambedkar. The Nehru-Gandhi family insulted him when he was alive and his humiliating him even more now. Shameful and petty.
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/988331663255064576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Congress President Rahul Gandhi launched yet another diatribe against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government on Monday while launching his 'Save the Constitution' campaign to highlight the plight of Dalits in the country

Congress President Rahul Gandhi launched his "Save the Constitution" campaign on Monday. The campaign, launched from Delhi's Talkatora stadium, is meant to highlight the plight of the Dalits in the country. As expected, Rahul launched a broadside against PM Modi and his government at Talkatora. "Just give me 15 minutess with Modiji. I will talk about Rafale and Nirav Modi and Modiii won't be able to stand. Everyone knows that Rafale is a corrupt deal and how Nirav Modi took away 30,000 crore and ran away, and how his friend is keeping silent." "The Constitution saves our rights. The institutions in our country, whether it is EC, Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, Vidhan Sabha, IIT, IIM have been given to us by our constitution. Without the Constitution, nothing was possible," Rahul added. "Modiji doesn't want anyone from his party to speak. He just want to do his Mann ki Baat," Rahul said. Adding, "An eight-year-old girl gets raped, a girl is raped in Unnao, but Modiji keeps silent about his MLA." "India knows PM Modi has interest in just one thing, and it is PM Modiji," Rahul said. He continued his attack, saying, "PM Modiji will come up with a new slogan. New slogan will be just 'Beti Bachao', beti padhao bhool jao. And who do the girls needs to be saved from... from BJP MLAs." "India's reputation around the world has been destroyed by Modiji. Rapes, attrocities against Dalits, attacks on minorities is why India is now being talked about. The Congress built India's reputation in 70 years and Modiji has destroyed that reputation in four years." "We defend the press. Even if you attack us, we defend you and this is the difference between them and us. Congress belongs to the weaker section, women, shopkeepers," Rahul continued. "The Congress party gave India its constitution and protected it. BJP and RSS people won't be able to touch the contitution ever. We won't let it happen and in the upcoming elections, people will tell Narendra Modji their Mann ki Baat." In his book 'Karmayog', PM Modi justifies manual scavenging by calling it a 'spiritual experience' for the Valmiki community. This speaks volumes about his anti-Dalit mindset: Rahul Gandhi, Congress President in #Delhi pic.twitter.com/yvmNvRY4x5 — ANI (@ANI) April 23, 2018 × BJP President Amit Shah responded to Rahul's attack. "If there is one party that has destroyed the spirit of our Constitution, it is the Congress. They do not want rule of democracy but they want rule of dynasty. Hence this is a farce of a movement by their President," he tweeted. "Our institutions which are an outcome of our Constitution today need to be saved from the onslaught of the Congress Party. The Congress Party has spared no institution and is attacking the EC, Supreme Court, Army for petty political gains," Shah added. By repeatedly saying the Congress made the Constitution, @RahulGandhi is carrying forward his family tradition of insulting Dr. Ambedkar. The Nehru-Gandhi family insulted him when he was alive and his humiliating him even more now. Shameful and petty. — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) April 23, 2018 ×

Congress built India's reputation over 70 years, Modi destroyed it in 4: Rahul

BJP MP Bharat Singh on Saturday accused the Congress party of working on their directives Christian missionaries who, he said, are a threat to the unity and integrity of the country.&nbsp

"Christian missionaries control the Congress. Sonia Gandhi, the mother of Congress president Rahul Gandhi works on the directions of these missionaries. These missionaries are a threat for the unity of the country," news agency PTI quoted Singh as saying while talking to reporters.&nbsp

Singh also alleged that the democracy in the northeastern states of the country has "weakened" due to "conversion of people there into Christianity."&nbsp

"The North-East is under the influence of Christian missionaries. Democracy has weakened due to the conversion of people to Christianity there. The conspiracies hatched by these missionaries are a threat for the country," he added.

The Ballia MP, incidentally, had also alleged recently that the Christian missionaries were behind the vandalisation of the statues of the Dalit icon and key architect of the Indian Constitution, Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar.

Singh further said after the Supreme Court's decision on Justice BH Loya case, Rahul Gandhi should regret his stand.

"Congress does not believe in democracy. After Loya case ruling by the SC, the Congress, which tried to put BJP president Amit Shah in the dock stands exposed," he added.&nbsp

Singh also alleged that the democracy in the northeastern states of the country has "weakened" due to "conversion of people there into Christianity."

BJP MP Bharat Singh on Saturday accused the Congress party of working on their directives Christian missionaries who, he said, are a threat to the unity and integrity of the country. "Christian missionaries control the Congress. Sonia Gandhi, the mother of Congress president Rahul Gandhi works on the directions of these missionaries. These missionaries are a threat for the unity of the country," news agency PTI quoted Singh as saying while talking to reporters. Singh also alleged that the democracy in the northeastern states of the country has "weakened" due to "conversion of people there into Christianity." "The North-East is under the influence of Christian missionaries. Democracy has weakened due to the conversion of people to Christianity there. The conspiracies hatched by these missionaries are a threat for the country," he added. The Ballia MP, incidentally, had also alleged recently that the Christian missionaries were behind the vandalisation of the statues of the Dalit icon and key architect of the Indian Constitution, Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar. Singh further said after the Supreme Court's decision on Justice BH Loya case, Rahul Gandhi should regret his stand. "Congress does not believe in democracy. After Loya case ruling by the SC, the Congress, which tried to put BJP president Amit Shah in the dock stands exposed," he added.

Congress is working on the directives of Christian missionaries: BJP's Ballia MP

Hours after Supreme Court ruled out an SIT probe into&nbsp;circumstances surrounding special CBI judge BH Loya's death in 2014, the Congress president Rahul Gandhi tweeted the truth has its own way of catching up with people like Amit Shah.

''Indians are deeply intelligent. Most Indians, including those in the BJP, instinctively understand the truth about Mr Amit Shah. The truth has its own way of catching up with people like him,'' Rahul Gandhi said in a tweet without referring&nbsp;to the case.

Rahul's statement was in reaction to the apex court's dismissal of a batch of PILs demanding a probe into the circumstances surrounding special CBI judge BH Loya's death in 2014.&nbsp;

A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud held that there was absolutely no merit in the petitions and said Loya died of natural causes.

Loya had been hearing the politically sensitive Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case, in which then Gujarat home minister Amit Shah was an accused. After Loya's death, Shah was discharged and the CBI refused to file an appeal against the verdict.

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Indians are deeply intelligent. Most Indians, including those in the BJP, instinctively understand the truth about Mr Amit Shah. The truth has its own way of catching up with people like him.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/986968232857882624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Immediately after the verdict was pronounced both BJP and Congress indulged in a political mudslinging. The BJP alleged the "invisible hand" behind the pleas was of Rahul Gandhi as part of "a conspiracy to finish the political career" of the ruling party chief Amit Shah. The party also demanded an apology from the Congress president.&nbsp;

The Congress, on the other hand, described the verdict as a ''sad letter day'' in India's history.&nbsp;

Attacking the BJP for accusing Congress president Rahul Gandhi's as being the invisible hand behind the petitions seeking the probe, party spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala termed the allegations as a malicious attempt which showed the ruling party's jitteriness

''Indians are deeply intelligent. Most Indians, including those in the BJP, instinctively understand the truth about Mr Amit Shah. The truth has its own way of catching up with people like him,'' Rahul Gandhi said in a tweet.

Hours after Supreme Court ruled out an SIT probe into circumstances surrounding special CBI judge BH Loya's death in 2014, the Congress president Rahul Gandhi tweeted the truth has its own way of catching up with people like Amit Shah. ''Indians are deeply intelligent. Most Indians, including those in the BJP, instinctively understand the truth about Mr Amit Shah. The truth has its own way of catching up with people like him,'' Rahul Gandhi said in a tweet without referring to the case. Rahul's statement was in reaction to the apex court's dismissal of a batch of PILs demanding a probe into the circumstances surrounding special CBI judge BH Loya's death in 2014. A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud held that there was absolutely no merit in the petitions and said Loya died of natural causes. Loya had been hearing the politically sensitive Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case, in which then Gujarat home minister Amit Shah was an accused. After Loya's death, Shah was discharged and the CBI refused to file an appeal against the verdict. Indians are deeply intelligent. Most Indians, including those in the BJP, instinctively understand the truth about Mr Amit Shah. The truth has its own way of catching up with people like him. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) April 19, 2018 × Immediately after the verdict was pronounced both BJP and Congress indulged in a political mudslinging. The BJP alleged the "invisible hand" behind the pleas was of Rahul Gandhi as part of "a conspiracy to finish the political career" of the ruling party chief Amit Shah. The party also demanded an apology from the Congress president. The Congress, on the other hand, described the verdict as a ''sad letter day'' in India's history. Attacking the BJP for accusing Congress president Rahul Gandhi's as being the invisible hand behind the petitions seeking the probe, party spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala termed the allegations as a malicious attempt which showed the ruling party's jitteriness

Truth has its own way of catching up with people like Amit Shah: Tweets Rahul Gandhi

The Congress on Thursday raised questions over the Supreme Court verdict rejecting a batch of pleas seeking a probe into the alleged mysterious death of judge B H Loya, saying it was a sad letter day&nbspin the country's history and pitched for a fair probe into the matter.

Attacking the BJP for accusing Congress president Rahul Gandhi's as being the invisible hand behind the petitions seeking the probe, party spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala termed the allegations as a malicious attempt which showed the ruling party's jitteriness.&nbsp

It is a sad letter day in India's history. The suspicious circumstances in which Loya died, was a matter of deep concern for those who have faith in the judiciary. The copy of the entire judgment is not yet available. But there are still questions before those who believe in the judiciary, Surjewala told reporters in Delhi.

He raised 10 questions relating to the case as he criticised the verdict and noted that issue of criminality can be decided only through a probe, contending that no investigation was done into the death of Loya, who was hearing the high-profile Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case.&nbsp

In this background, the BJP's attempt to make false capital out of the Supreme Court judgment must be condemned with strongest possible words, he added.

Surjewala also stressed that the Congress was not among the petitioners seeking a probe into the judge's death and recalled that the party had instead approached the people's court and approached President Ram Nath Kovind along with 14 other opposition parties.&nbsp

The BJP's attempt to misinterpret the Supreme Court judgement reflects their jitteriness and frustration. We reject and condemn the malicious attempts of the BJP to misinterpret the judgement for finger pointing, he said.

Earlier in the day, Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi said that the apex court's verdict dismissing the pleas seeking an independent probe into Loya's death will raise more questions and leave many of them unanswered unless logical reasons were found in it.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud said there was no reason to doubt the statements of four judges on the circumstances leading to the judge's death and the documents placed on record and their scrutiny established that the death was due to natural cause.

Loya had died of cardiac arrest in Nagpur on December 1, 2014 when he had gone to attend the wedding of a colleague's daughter.&nbsp

Immediately after the court gave its verdict, the BJP mounted an attack on the Congress, alleging that the "invisible" hand behind the petitions was that of Gandhi who tried to use the judiciary for "character assassination" of its chief Amit Shah.

Attacking the BJP for accusing Congress president Rahul Gandhi's as being the invisible hand behind the petitions seeking the probe, party spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala termed the allegations as a malicious attempt

The Congress on Thursday raised questions over the Supreme Court verdict rejecting a batch of pleas seeking a probe into the alleged mysterious death of judge B H Loya, saying it was a sad letter day&nbspin the country's history and pitched for a fair probe into the matter. Attacking the BJP for accusing Congress president Rahul Gandhi's as being the invisible hand behind the petitions seeking the probe, party spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala termed the allegations as a malicious attempt which showed the ruling party's jitteriness. It is a sad letter day in India's history. The suspicious circumstances in which Loya died, was a matter of deep concern for those who have faith in the judiciary. The copy of the entire judgment is not yet available. But there are still questions before those who believe in the judiciary, Surjewala told reporters in Delhi. He raised 10 questions relating to the case as he criticised the verdict and noted that issue of criminality can be decided only through a probe, contending that no investigation was done into the death of Loya, who was hearing the high-profile Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case. In this background, the BJP's attempt to make false capital out of the Supreme Court judgment must be condemned with strongest possible words, he added. Surjewala also stressed that the Congress was not among the petitioners seeking a probe into the judge's death and recalled that the party had instead approached the people's court and approached President Ram Nath Kovind along with 14 other opposition parties. The BJP's attempt to misinterpret the Supreme Court judgement reflects their jitteriness and frustration. We reject and condemn the malicious attempts of the BJP to misinterpret the judgement for finger pointing, he said. Earlier in the day, Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi said that the apex court's verdict dismissing the pleas seeking an independent probe into Loya's death will raise more questions and leave many of them unanswered unless logical reasons were found in it. A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud said there was no reason to doubt the statements of four judges on the circumstances leading to the judge's death and the documents placed on record and their scrutiny established that the death was due to natural cause. Loya had died of cardiac arrest in Nagpur on December 1, 2014 when he had gone to attend the wedding of a colleague's daughter. Immediately after the court gave its verdict, the BJP mounted an attack on the Congress, alleging that the "invisible" hand behind the petitions was that of Gandhi who tried to use the judiciary for "character assassination" of its chief Amit Shah.

Sad letter day in India's history, fair probe needed into judge Loya's death: Congress on SC verdict

The BJP on Thursday&nbsplaunched a fierce attack on the Congress after the Supreme Court rejected petitions seeking probe into Judge B H Loya's death, and alleged the "invisible hand" behind the pleas was of Rahul Gandhi as part of "a conspiracy to finish the political career" of the ruling party chief Amit Shah.

Soon after the Supreme Court passed its order rejecting a batch of petitions in the Loya case, a number of senior BJP leaders blasted the Congress and Gandhi and sought his apology for what they described as an attempt to use the judiciary for a political battle aimed at "character assassination" of Shah.

The apex court said the judge died of natural causes while rejecting petitions that cast a cloud over reasons of his demise and sought an independent probe. Before his death in December 2014, Loya was hearing the Sohrabuddin encounter case in which Shah was an accused. The BJP president was discharged later.

Addressing a press conference after the SC verdict, Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said the Congress and its chief Rahul Gandhi conspired to target BJP President Amit Shah as it believes that only one family had a right to rule the country"It was a conspiracy by the Congress and its chief Gandhi to finish the political career of BJP President Amit Shah, as part of which wrong accusations were made and an over 100-strong delegation was taken to the President," Prasad said.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh took to Twitter to say that the judiciary has sent a message that it cannot be misled by allegations based on political vendetta and claimed that several attempts have been made to target top BJP leaders through 'fake news'.

"The Supreme Court has also cautioned against the misuse of courts in political tug of war," Singh tweeted.

While Singh did not specifically name Congress or its chief, Prasad was unsparing in his attack on Gandhi and wondered if he wanted to enhance his party's political standing by seeking recourse to the corridors of courts by making them "a political battleground with politically-vested litigations".

Earlier in the day, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra told reporters that the public interest litigations (PILs) seeking a probe into Loya's death were like "political interest litigations".

Alleging that the "invisible hand" behind these petitions was of Gandhi and the Congress, Patra said the Congress chief should be "ashamed" for what he described as a conspiracy to target Shah, the Indian judiciary and the country's democracy.

"The Congress engages in all sorts of conspiracies after its ruling family loses power," Patra alleged and added that the attempt to use judiciary for political purposes was a "new low" in Indian politics.

The BJP leader further alleged that the pleas were filed to settle political scores as Congress was incapable of taking on Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the electoral field.&nbsp

The Union Minister said Gandhi should apologise as he had led a delegation of opposition MPs to the President and his party had held press conferences seeking a probe into the special CBI judge's death.

Loya had died of cardiac arrest, according to police investigation reports, in Nagpur on December 1, 2014 when he had gone to attend the wedding of a colleague's daughter.

The issue of Loya's death came in spotlight in November last year after some media reports quoting his sister fuelled suspicion about circumstances surrounding it and its link to the Sohrabuddin case.

Quoting from the apex court's order, Prasad said the verdict answers all questions raised by the Congress as well as by the petitioners who acted as a "front" or were in close cooperation with the main opposition party.

He said the the plea was not in public interest but in the interest of the Congress and to damage the BJP and its chief.

Prasad said the party had kept quiet so far on the issue was it "wanted the law to take its own course".

"The Congress has been unmasked today," he said.

To a query about questions raised by the Congress following the order, he said some people accept the court's verdict only when it suits them but the decision of the Supreme Court is final.

Patra said it is a new low in the Indian politics as the Congress tried to politicise the judiciary.

Joining the attack on the Congress, Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said the party failed to ?destroy? the then Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi and Shah, when it was in power at the Centre.

"Now in opposition, Congress was conspiring to defame the BJP's top leadership," he said.

"Today's judgement has demolished the Congress' attempts of hatching criminal conspiracy to destroy and defame our top leadership. The Congress, its president Shri Rahul Gandhi and Smt Sonia Gandhi should apologise for this sin," Naqvi told reporters.

In its order, the Supreme Court said the petitions seeking a probe into Judge Loya's death were a serious attempt to scandalise and obstruct the course of justice.

The top court dubbed the PILs into the death of judge Loya as frivolous and motivated litigations to settle political scores and rivalry were behind the "facade of the PIL" to malign the dignity of judicial officers and Bombay High Court judges.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh took to Twitter to say that the judiciary has sent a message that it cannot be misled by allegations based on political vendetta and claimed that several attempts have been made to target top BJP leaders through 'fake news'.

The BJP on Thursday&nbsplaunched a fierce attack on the Congress after the Supreme Court rejected petitions seeking probe into Judge B H Loya's death, and alleged the "invisible hand" behind the pleas was of Rahul Gandhi as part of "a conspiracy to finish the political career" of the ruling party chief Amit Shah. Soon after the Supreme Court passed its order rejecting a batch of petitions in the Loya case, a number of senior BJP leaders blasted the Congress and Gandhi and sought his apology for what they described as an attempt to use the judiciary for a political battle aimed at "character assassination" of Shah. The apex court said the judge died of natural causes while rejecting petitions that cast a cloud over reasons of his demise and sought an independent probe. Before his death in December 2014, Loya was hearing the Sohrabuddin encounter case in which Shah was an accused. The BJP president was discharged later. Addressing a press conference after the SC verdict, Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said the Congress and its chief Rahul Gandhi conspired to target BJP President Amit Shah as it believes that only one family had a right to rule the country"It was a conspiracy by the Congress and its chief Gandhi to finish the political career of BJP President Amit Shah, as part of which wrong accusations were made and an over 100-strong delegation was taken to the President," Prasad said. Home Minister Rajnath Singh took to Twitter to say that the judiciary has sent a message that it cannot be misled by allegations based on political vendetta and claimed that several attempts have been made to target top BJP leaders through 'fake news'. "The Supreme Court has also cautioned against the misuse of courts in political tug of war," Singh tweeted. While Singh did not specifically name Congress or its chief, Prasad was unsparing in his attack on Gandhi and wondered if he wanted to enhance his party's political standing by seeking recourse to the corridors of courts by making them "a political battleground with politically-vested litigations". Earlier in the day, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra told reporters that the public interest litigations (PILs) seeking a probe into Loya's death were like "political interest litigations". Alleging that the "invisible hand" behind these petitions was of Gandhi and the Congress, Patra said the Congress chief should be "ashamed" for what he described as a conspiracy to target Shah, the Indian judiciary and the country's democracy. "The Congress engages in all sorts of conspiracies after its ruling family loses power," Patra alleged and added that the attempt to use judiciary for political purposes was a "new low" in Indian politics. The BJP leader further alleged that the pleas were filed to settle political scores as Congress was incapable of taking on Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the electoral field. The Union Minister said Gandhi should apologise as he had led a delegation of opposition MPs to the President and his party had held press conferences seeking a probe into the special CBI judge's death. Loya had died of cardiac arrest, according to police investigation reports, in Nagpur on December 1, 2014 when he had gone to attend the wedding of a colleague's daughter. The issue of Loya's death came in spotlight in November last year after some media reports quoting his sister fuelled suspicion about circumstances surrounding it and its link to the Sohrabuddin case. Quoting from the apex court's order, Prasad said the verdict answers all questions raised by the Congress as well as by the petitioners who acted as a "front" or were in close cooperation with the main opposition party. He said the the plea was not in public interest but in the interest of the Congress and to damage the BJP and its chief. Prasad said the party had kept quiet so far on the issue was it "wanted the law to take its own course". "The Congress has been unmasked today," he said. To a query about questions raised by the Congress following the order, he said some people accept the court's verdict only when it suits them but the decision of the Supreme Court is final. Patra said it is a new low in the Indian politics as the Congress tried to politicise the judiciary. Joining the attack on the Congress, Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said the party failed to ?destroy? the then Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi and Shah, when it was in power at the Centre. "Now in opposition, Congress was conspiring to defame the BJP's top leadership," he said. "Today's judgement has demolished the Congress' attempts of hatching criminal conspiracy to destroy and defame our top leadership. The Congress, its president Shri Rahul Gandhi and Smt Sonia Gandhi should apologise for this sin," Naqvi told reporters. In its order, the Supreme Court said the petitions seeking a probe into Judge Loya's death were a serious attempt to scandalise and obstruct the course of justice. The top court dubbed the PILs into the death of judge Loya as frivolous and motivated litigations to settle political scores and rivalry were behind the "facade of the PIL" to malign the dignity of judicial officers and Bombay High Court judges.

BJP sees Rahul's 'invisible hand' behind Loya death probe pleas, demands apology for 'conspiracy'

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday assured the people of Amethi that in 15 years the constituency will be as developed as Singapore and California.

Addressing a gathering after inaugurating a school here in his parliamentary constituency, the Congress chief also accused the Centre and state government for halting the progress of the state by taking away the big projects.

"After 10-15 years, when people would mention Singapore and California, they will also mention Amethi in the same breath," Rahul said.

He further said Amethi will become world famous education hub soon and nobody can stop this from happening.

The Gandhi scion is on a three-day visit to the family's pocket borough constituency of Amethi and Raebareli in Uttar Pradesh. His mother and former Congress president Sonia Gandhi are the Member of Parliament from Raebareli.

Taking a swipe at PM Modi on the cash crunch crisis, Gandhi said: “Desh ki puri Janta ko line mein lagaya… Apke job se 500 ka note cheena, Nirav Modi Ji ke Jeb mein dala. Pradhan Mantri ek shabda nahi kehte. Parliament mein khare hone se darte hain… (People were forced to stand in queues. Rs 500 notes were snatched from you and put in Nirav Modi’s pocket. Prime Minister does not say a word… He is afraid of facing Parliament).”

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Congress President Rahul Gandhi says 'After 10-15 years when people mention Singapore and California, they will also mention Amethi in the same breath' (17.4.18) <a href="https://t.co/Y1lDhye8zC">pic.twitter.com/Y1lDhye8zC</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/986448278102388737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from ANI)

Congress president Rahul Gandhi is on a three-day visit to Amethi and his mother Sonia Gandhi's constituency Rae Bareli.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday assured the people of Amethi that in 15 years the constituency will be as developed as Singapore and California. Addressing a gathering after inaugurating a school here in his parliamentary constituency, the Congress chief also accused the Centre and state government for halting the progress of the state by taking away the big projects. "After 10-15 years, when people would mention Singapore and California, they will also mention Amethi in the same breath," Rahul said. He further said Amethi will become world famous education hub soon and nobody can stop this from happening. The Gandhi scion is on a three-day visit to the family's pocket borough constituency of Amethi and Raebareli in Uttar Pradesh. His mother and former Congress president Sonia Gandhi are the Member of Parliament from Raebareli. Taking a swipe at PM Modi on the cash crunch crisis, Gandhi said: “Desh ki puri Janta ko line mein lagaya… Apke job se 500 ka note cheena, Nirav Modi Ji ke Jeb mein dala. Pradhan Mantri ek shabda nahi kehte. Parliament mein khare hone se darte hain… (People were forced to stand in queues. Rs 500 notes were snatched from you and put in Nirav Modi’s pocket. Prime Minister does not say a word… He is afraid of facing Parliament).” #WATCH: Congress President Rahul Gandhi says 'After 10-15 years when people mention Singapore and California, they will also mention Amethi in the same breath' (17.4.18) pic.twitter.com/Y1lDhye8zC — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 18, 2018 × (With inputs from ANI)

Watch: In 15 years, Amethi will be like Singapore, California, says Rahul Gandhi

Congress President Rahul Gandhi led a midnight protest Thursday against the Kathua and Unnao gang rapes at Delhi's India Gate.&nbsp;

"Like millions of Indians my heart hurts tonight. India simply cannot continue to treat its women the way it does," Rahul tweeted on Thursday. &nbsp;

Rahul said the protest would be a "silent, peaceful, candlelight vigil".&nbsp;

"Join me in a silent, peaceful, candlelight vigil at India Gate at midnight tonight to protest this violence and demand justice," Rahul tweeted.&nbsp;

The Kathua and Unnao gang rapes have left the nation in shock.&nbsp;

In the first incident, an eight-year-old girl was kept captive in a temple in Kathua, Jammu. The child was sedated and raped repeatedly.&nbsp;

The alleged mastermind was a retired revenue official and policemen were allegedly involved in the crime.&nbsp;

Eight people have so far been arrested.&nbsp;

The Unnao incident only came to light when the girl and her family tried to immolate themselves outside the residence of the Uttar Pradesh chief minister on Sunday.&nbsp;

The girl's father — she was 17 when she was allegedly gang-raped — died a few days later, reportedly in police custody.&nbsp;

The main accused is the BJP MLA from Unnao, Kuldeep Singh Sengar.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/unnao-gangrape-case-high-court-slams-up-govt-over-delay-in-accused-mlas-arrest-130128">High court slams UP govt over </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/unnao-gangrape-case-high-court-slams-up-govt-over-delay-in-accused-mlas-arrest-130128">delay</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/unnao-gangrape-case-high-court-slams-up-govt-over-delay-in-accused-mlas-arrest-130128"> in accused MLA's arrest</a>

A video has since surfaced of the girl's father saying he had been beaten by Sengar's brother in front of the police, but they did nothing because of the MLA's clout.&nbsp;

An FIR was finally filed on Thursday.&nbsp;

Sengar has been accused of, among other crimes, rape and kidnapping but he has not yet been arrested with the police saying the CBI would do so.&nbsp;

The case has since been handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation.&nbsp;

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Like millions of Indians my heart hurts tonight. India simply cannot continue to treat its women the way it does. 
 
Join me in a silent, peaceful, candlelight vigil at India Gate at midnight tonight to protest this violence and demand justice.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/984463414947758081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Rahul said the protest would be a 'silent, peaceful, candlelight vigil'

Congress President Rahul Gandhi led a midnight protest Thursday against the Kathua and Unnao gang rapes at Delhi's India Gate. "Like millions of Indians my heart hurts tonight. India simply cannot continue to treat its women the way it does," Rahul tweeted on Thursday. Rahul said the protest would be a "silent, peaceful, candlelight vigil". "Join me in a silent, peaceful, candlelight vigil at India Gate at midnight tonight to protest this violence and demand justice," Rahul tweeted. The Kathua and Unnao gang rapes have left the nation in shock. In the first incident, an eight-year-old girl was kept captive in a temple in Kathua, Jammu. The child was sedated and raped repeatedly. The alleged mastermind was a retired revenue official and policemen were allegedly involved in the crime. Eight people have so far been arrested. The Unnao incident only came to light when the girl and her family tried to immolate themselves outside the residence of the Uttar Pradesh chief minister on Sunday. The girl's father — she was 17 when she was allegedly gang-raped — died a few days later, reportedly in police custody. The main accused is the BJP MLA from Unnao, Kuldeep Singh Sengar. Also read: High court slams UP govt over delay in accused MLA's arrest A video has since surfaced of the girl's father saying he had been beaten by Sengar's brother in front of the police, but they did nothing because of the MLA's clout. An FIR was finally filed on Thursday. Sengar has been accused of, among other crimes, rape and kidnapping but he has not yet been arrested with the police saying the CBI would do so. The case has since been handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation. Like millions of Indians my heart hurts tonight. India simply cannot continue to treat its women the way it does. Join me in a silent, peaceful, candlelight vigil at India Gate at midnight tonight to protest this violence and demand justice. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) April 12, 2018 ×

Kathua, Unnao gang rapes: Rahul Gandhi leads midnight protest at Delhi's India Gate

Congress president Rahul Gandhi has held Prime Minister Narendra Modi responsible for ATM machines running out of cash, saying the PM has destroyed the banking system.

He further criticised Modi over the Nirav Modi row, saying that he has taken money from common man's pocket and put it into Nirav Modi's pocket.&nbsp;

Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Gandhi said, "Modiji has destroyed the banking system. Nirav fled with Rs 30,000 crore and Prime Minister didn't utter a word."

"We were forced to stand in queues as he snatched Rs 500-1,000 notes from our pockets and put in Nirav Modi's pocket," he added.&nbsp;

He further attacked Modi and said that he&nbsp;runs away from talking in Parliament and having discussions over different issues. Gandhi claimed that if he got 15 minutes to speak on issues related to the Rafael deal and Nirav Modi, PM Modi will not have any answers.

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PM parliament main khade hone se darte hain. Hume 15 mins ka bhashan mil jaye Parliament house main PM khade nahi ho payenge, chahe wo Rafael ka mamala ho ya, chahe wo Nirav Modi ka mamla ho, PM khade nahi ho payenge: Rahul Gandhi <a href="https://t.co/eJKhAMNFqW">pic.twitter.com/eJKhAMNFqW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/986151789710970880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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People Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat reported that they were<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/atms-in-several-states-run-of-cash-130963"> unable to withdraw cash</a> since several ATMs in their city had run out of money.&nbsp;

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said that he had reviewed the currency situation in the country and assured that there was more than adequate currency in circulation and available with the banks.&nbsp;

The finance minister said the temporary shortage had been caused by "sudden and unusual increase in some areas and is being tackled quickly".

He further attacked Modi saying he runs away from talking in Parliment and having discussions over different issues

Congress president Rahul Gandhi has held Prime Minister Narendra Modi responsible for ATM machines running out of cash, saying the PM has destroyed the banking system. He further criticised Modi over the Nirav Modi row, saying that he has taken money from common man's pocket and put it into Nirav Modi's pocket. Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Gandhi said, "Modiji has destroyed the banking system. Nirav fled with Rs 30,000 crore and Prime Minister didn't utter a word." "We were forced to stand in queues as he snatched Rs 500-1,000 notes from our pockets and put in Nirav Modi's pocket," he added. He further attacked Modi and said that he runs away from talking in Parliament and having discussions over different issues. Gandhi claimed that if he got 15 minutes to speak on issues related to the Rafael deal and Nirav Modi, PM Modi will not have any answers. PM parliament main khade hone se darte hain. Hume 15 mins ka bhashan mil jaye Parliament house main PM khade nahi ho payenge, chahe wo Rafael ka mamala ho ya, chahe wo Nirav Modi ka mamla ho, PM khade nahi ho payenge: Rahul Gandhi pic.twitter.com/eJKhAMNFqW — ANI (@ANI) April 17, 2018 × People Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat reported that they were unable to withdraw cash since several ATMs in their city had run out of money. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said that he had reviewed the currency situation in the country and assured that there was more than adequate currency in circulation and available with the banks. The finance minister said the temporary shortage had been caused by "sudden and unusual increase in some areas and is being tackled quickly".

PM has destroyed banking system, put our money in Nirav Modi's pocket: Rahul Gandhi

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday attacked PM Narendra Modi over the rising number of rape and violence assault incidents of minors in the country.&nbsp

Rahul Gandhi took to twitter stating that the number of rape cases of minors has increased to 19,675 in 2016. He further added that PM should fast track these cases and punish the guilty if he is serious about providing “justice for our daughters.”

The attack comes following the horrific rape and murder incident of eight-year-old girl fro, Kathua, Jammuu and Kashmir.&nbsp

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There were 19,675 rapes of minor children reported in 2016. This is shameful. 
 
PM should fast track these cases and punish the guilty if he is serious about providing “justice for our daughters”. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpeakUp?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpeakUp</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/985785261702467584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Last week as well, Rahul Gandhi had targeted PM Modi saying his silence over growing violence against women and children was unacceptable. Taking to Twitter, he had asked as to why accused rapists and murderers are protected by the state, in an apparent reference to Unnao rape case where the accused is Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar.

Rahul on Thursday last held a midnight candlelight march at India Gate in the national capital against the Kathua and Unnao rape cases, which have triggered a country-wide outrage.

Meanwhile, forty-nine former bureaucrats have written a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-darkest-hour-response-of-government-inadequate-49-former-bureaucrats-write-to-pm-modi-after-kathua-unnao-gang-rapes-130680">scathing open letter</a> to Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the Kathua and Unnao gang rapes.&nbsp

"In post-independence India, this is our darkest hour and we find the response of our government, the leaders of our political parties inadequate and feeble," the bureaucrats write in their letter. &nbsp

The letter blames the Kathua (Jammu and Kashmir) and Unnao (UP) attacks on the BJP, which is in power in both states.&nbsp

Also,<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/trial-in-kathua-gang-rape-case-begins-130724"> the trial</a> in the gang-rape and murder case against eight accused men who allegedly drugged, tortured and gang-raped an 8-year-old girl in a village temple in Kathua for a week, began today.

The accused pleaded not guilty and asked the district and sessions judge for a narco test.

The attack comes following the horrific rape and murder incident of eight-year-old girl fro, Kathua, Jammuu and Kashmir

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday attacked PM Narendra Modi over the rising number of rape and violence assault incidents of minors in the country. Rahul Gandhi took to twitter stating that the number of rape cases of minors has increased to 19,675 in 2016. He further added that PM should fast track these cases and punish the guilty if he is serious about providing “justice for our daughters.” The attack comes following the horrific rape and murder incident of eight-year-old girl fro, Kathua, Jammuu and Kashmir. There were 19,675 rapes of minor children reported in 2016. This is shameful. PM should fast track these cases and punish the guilty if he is serious about providing “justice for our daughters”. #SpeakUp — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) April 16, 2018 × Last week as well, Rahul Gandhi had targeted PM Modi saying his silence over growing violence against women and children was unacceptable. Taking to Twitter, he had asked as to why accused rapists and murderers are protected by the state, in an apparent reference to Unnao rape case where the accused is Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar. Rahul on Thursday last held a midnight candlelight march at India Gate in the national capital against the Kathua and Unnao rape cases, which have triggered a country-wide outrage. Meanwhile, forty-nine former bureaucrats have written a scathing open letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the Kathua and Unnao gang rapes. "In post-independence India, this is our darkest hour and we find the response of our government, the leaders of our political parties inadequate and feeble," the bureaucrats write in their letter. The letter blames the Kathua (Jammu and Kashmir) and Unnao (UP) attacks on the BJP, which is in power in both states. Also, the trial in the gang-rape and murder case against eight accused men who allegedly drugged, tortured and gang-raped an 8-year-old girl in a village temple in Kathua for a week, began today. The accused pleaded not guilty and asked the district and sessions judge for a narco test.

PM should 'speak up if serious about providing justice for our daughters': Rahul

Congress President Rahul Gandhi will launch a nationwide campaign "Save the Constitution" on April 23 at Talkatora stadium in Delhi to highlight the alleged attacks on the Constitution and the Dalit community.

The campaign will be attended by Congress' present and former Dalit lawmakers, those holding offices in zilla parishad, civic bodies and panchayat samitis, party youth, women and Seva Dal.

The meeting aims to sensitise the participants&nbsp;on the current state of the Dalit community.

The Congress party workers present in the campaign are expected to carry forward the message to different states by holding similar campaigns.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;party will also deliver in the meeting about the steps that they have taken in favour of the community.

The SC community in India occupies about 84 Parliamentary seats of the country.

The Congress party workers present in the campaign are expected to carry forward the message to different states by holding similar campaigns

Congress President Rahul Gandhi will launch a nationwide campaign "Save the Constitution" on April 23 at Talkatora stadium in Delhi to highlight the alleged attacks on the Constitution and the Dalit community. The campaign will be attended by Congress' present and former Dalit lawmakers, those holding offices in zilla parishad, civic bodies and panchayat samitis, party youth, women and Seva Dal. The meeting aims to sensitise the participants on the current state of the Dalit community. The Congress party workers present in the campaign are expected to carry forward the message to different states by holding similar campaigns. The party will also deliver in the meeting about the steps that they have taken in favour of the community. The SC community in India occupies about 84 Parliamentary seats of the country.

Rahul to launch 'Save the Constitution' campaign to highlight Dalit plight

The biggest challenge for the Congress post-2014 shock defeat was to change its perception in the civil society and media. Rahul Gandhi gradually made changes in various wings of the party but changes in media department were most drastic and visible. He also appointed Priyanka Chaturvedi as the Convenor of the AICC Communication.

She spoke to WION's Kartikeya Sharma at length on the changes made within the media department and overhaul done by Rahul.

WION: How has media landscape changed for the Congress after 2014?

Priyanka Chaturvedi: Before 2014, there came a point when media was not willing to give us space. We would not even get a response time on debates. But things are changing. The change is happening. Post 2014-15, the country was waiting to see implementation and policy focus of the Modi government and things he promised. However, now there is a perceptible shift. People are asking questions and media response too has changed. But tough questions need to be asked to those in power by media. The shift has taken place but it is not total. 
&nbsp 
WION: What has been the biggest challenge of the Congress party when it comes to media?

Priyanka Chaturvedi: Many channels, websites and other publications grew during our tenure (at the Centre) but not being able to keep up with this growth phenomena is what we lacked in 2014. However, there is a shift happening through consumers. We are trying to get a right balance in our communication model. It has to be more frequent. We also need to change with the times. We are also creating a fluid and flexible structure where we are available to answering questions. We are also more people focused and by leveraging technology we are getting voices heard in the din of fake news. 
&nbsp 
WION: Why could Congress not adjust to the nature of change in the media? Why did it happen?

Priyanka Chaturvedi: I think when a party is in power, you sometime do not understand the impact it has on your organisation. This a problem which BJP is also facing at this point of time. Sometimes management of the problem takes place at the expense of the organisation. 
&nbsp 
WION: Don't you think media houses have become easy scapegoats in fight between political parties whereas the problem of fake news emanates from anonymous accounts in social media?

Priyanka Chaturvedi: I couldn't agree more with you. Social media is unregulated. Earlier there was a belief that media was a gatekeeper, but social media ended that. But what has happened is that social media is setting the agenda for mainstream channel and that is being carried forward by them. Why don't we have a fact check system in this context? Problem arises when mainstream media amplifies social media content without verifying it. They also need to be held accountable. Statutory bodies should be empowered rather than depending on the government to bring in regulation.

WION: Mainstream media becomes the whipping boy whereas the problem lies somewhere else?

Priyanka Chaturvedi: The (social media) platform is absolutely unregulated and we need a free and fair discussion on this matter. Policy needs to be created which doesn't seem to be happening.

WION: How has your department changed over time? There was a time when 10 people were saying 10 different things about the party...

Priyanka Chaturvedi: There are lessons we have learnt. Lot of newcomers have now got a chance to join the department. Our structure has become more flexible and we are using multiple platforms. We have ensured that our representation in regional channels goes up. The problem of accessibility is being taken care of. We are accessible, fluid, flexible and more informed. We also ensure that content to all is readily available.

WION: What is Congress president Rahul Gandhi's vision when it comes to your department?

Priyanka Chaturvedi: Mr Gandhi is very clear about the issue. He believes that departments need to be decentralised. The media department is also restructuring various teams at the state level. He is letting us take initiatives within the party.

WION: But it took a long time for Rahul Gandhi to rename his Twitter handle as Rahul Gandhi from the Office of Rahul Gandhi...

Priyanka Chaturvedi: I would not say that he took a lot of time. There are people who are not open about their own lives. Their choice of interaction is very personal. But these platforms have huge impact and when you have a government which doesn't allow opposition to speak, you have to rely on these platforms. So, you see him speaking at lot of forums engaging with lot of people, but it is being noticed and observed now. Leave opposition, even media voice is being challenged. Engaging with people and being heard is very important and that is being done from bottom to the top.

WION: Despite increased TV, newspaper and social media presence, Congress has failed to win states. What do you have to say about that?

Priyanka Chaturvedi: We are trying to build our entire communication narrative. Democracy goes through a cycle. Change is a constant. We will see an upswing. We witnessed a downswing earlier. Media component amplifies what the organisation does and I believe that mood of the nation is changing, and people have started to question the government.

WION: There was lot of controversy around Cambridge Analytica. How do you respond to it?

Priyanka Chaturvedi: It is a ridiculous charge. It was made by none other than our Law Minister. He used newspaper reports to make allegations against us. If there is any truth in the matter he should take it to the Supreme Court and wait for how SC responds to it. Cambridge Analytica, when it started operation in India, came with SCL. It had 4 co-founders and one of them, Avnish Rai, has categorically said that CA was paid by one of the BJP sympathisers to sabotage Congress campaign in 2014. However, they did not find much success in that. What you cannot do away with is the fact that OVI's vice president claimed that he worked with BJP in four election-bound states which included Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Haryana and Delhi. He also mentioned that they were working with the BJP for Mission 272. What cannot be missed is that the missed call drive was also handled by them. These are the questions which have gone unanswered. Who leveraged technology and is talking big about it? It is BJP. 
&nbsp 
WION: Mantra for the old Congress was alliances. What is the mantra of the new Congress? Is it organisation?

Priyanka Chaturvedi: Alliances are very important in democracy. We ran a government with alliance partners and gave good growth story. Alliances with regional parties is a reality today. Perhaps we are seeing a phase where regional parties are playing an important role. It has to be balance of both organisation and alliance. Today alliance is a reality and cannot be done away with.

Priyanka, Convenor of the AICC's Communication wing, speaks on reorganisation happening in the party under Rahul Gandhi's leadership and Cambridge Analytica row.

The biggest challenge for the Congress post-2014 shock defeat was to change its perception in the civil society and media. Rahul Gandhi gradually made changes in various wings of the party but changes in media department were most drastic and visible. He also appointed Priyanka Chaturvedi as the Convenor of the AICC Communication. She spoke to WION's Kartikeya Sharma at length on the changes made within the media department and overhaul done by Rahul. WION: How has media landscape changed for the Congress after 2014? Priyanka Chaturvedi: Before 2014, there came a point when media was not willing to give us space. We would not even get a response time on debates. But things are changing. The change is happening. Post 2014-15, the country was waiting to see implementation and policy focus of the Modi government and things he promised. However, now there is a perceptible shift. People are asking questions and media response too has changed. But tough questions need to be asked to those in power by media. The shift has taken place but it is not total. WION: What has been the biggest challenge of the Congress party when it comes to media? Priyanka Chaturvedi: Many channels, websites and other publications grew during our tenure (at the Centre) but not being able to keep up with this growth phenomena is what we lacked in 2014. However, there is a shift happening through consumers. We are trying to get a right balance in our communication model. It has to be more frequent. We also need to change with the times. We are also creating a fluid and flexible structure where we are available to answering questions. We are also more people focused and by leveraging technology we are getting voices heard in the din of fake news. WION: Why could Congress not adjust to the nature of change in the media? Why did it happen? Priyanka Chaturvedi: I think when a party is in power, you sometime do not understand the impact it has on your organisation. This a problem which BJP is also facing at this point of time. Sometimes management of the problem takes place at the expense of the organisation. WION: Don't you think media houses have become easy scapegoats in fight between political parties whereas the problem of fake news emanates from anonymous accounts in social media? Priyanka Chaturvedi: I couldn't agree more with you. Social media is unregulated. Earlier there was a belief that media was a gatekeeper, but social media ended that. But what has happened is that social media is setting the agenda for mainstream channel and that is being carried forward by them. Why don't we have a fact check system in this context? Problem arises when mainstream media amplifies social media content without verifying it. They also need to be held accountable. Statutory bodies should be empowered rather than depending on the government to bring in regulation. WION: Mainstream media becomes the whipping boy whereas the problem lies somewhere else? Priyanka Chaturvedi: The (social media) platform is absolutely unregulated and we need a free and fair discussion on this matter. Policy needs to be created which doesn't seem to be happening. WION: How has your department changed over time? There was a time when 10 people were saying 10 different things about the party... Priyanka Chaturvedi: There are lessons we have learnt. Lot of newcomers have now got a chance to join the department. Our structure has become more flexible and we are using multiple platforms. We have ensured that our representation in regional channels goes up. The problem of accessibility is being taken care of. We are accessible, fluid, flexible and more informed. We also ensure that content to all is readily available. WION: What is Congress president Rahul Gandhi's vision when it comes to your department? Priyanka Chaturvedi: Mr Gandhi is very clear about the issue. He believes that departments need to be decentralised. The media department is also restructuring various teams at the state level. He is letting us take initiatives within the party. WION: But it took a long time for Rahul Gandhi to rename his Twitter handle as Rahul Gandhi from the Office of Rahul Gandhi... Priyanka Chaturvedi: I would not say that he took a lot of time. There are people who are not open about their own lives. Their choice of interaction is very personal. But these platforms have huge impact and when you have a government which doesn't allow opposition to speak, you have to rely on these platforms. So, you see him speaking at lot of forums engaging with lot of people, but it is being noticed and observed now. Leave opposition, even media voice is being challenged. Engaging with people and being heard is very important and that is being done from bottom to the top. WION: Despite increased TV, newspaper and social media presence, Congress has failed to win states. What do you have to say about that? Priyanka Chaturvedi: We are trying to build our entire communication narrative. Democracy goes through a cycle. Change is a constant. We will see an upswing. We witnessed a downswing earlier. Media component amplifies what the organisation does and I believe that mood of the nation is changing, and people have started to question the government. WION: There was lot of controversy around Cambridge Analytica. How do you respond to it? Priyanka Chaturvedi: It is a ridiculous charge. It was made by none other than our Law Minister. He used newspaper reports to make allegations against us. If there is any truth in the matter he should take it to the Supreme Court and wait for how SC responds to it. Cambridge Analytica, when it started operation in India, came with SCL. It had 4 co-founders and one of them, Avnish Rai, has categorically said that CA was paid by one of the BJP sympathisers to sabotage Congress campaign in 2014. However, they did not find much success in that. What you cannot do away with is the fact that OVI's vice president claimed that he worked with BJP in four election-bound states which included Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Haryana and Delhi. He also mentioned that they were working with the BJP for Mission 272. What cannot be missed is that the missed call drive was also handled by them. These are the questions which have gone unanswered. Who leveraged technology and is talking big about it? It is BJP. WION: Mantra for the old Congress was alliances. What is the mantra of the new Congress? Is it organisation? Priyanka Chaturvedi: Alliances are very important in democracy. We ran a government with alliance partners and gave good growth story. Alliances with regional parties is a reality today. Perhaps we are seeing a phase where regional parties are playing an important role. It has to be balance of both organisation and alliance. Today alliance is a reality and cannot be done away with.

Congress becoming more decentralised under Rahul Gandhi: Priyanka Chaturvedi to WION

Congress President Rahul Gandhi's tweet targeting Union Minister Piyush Goyal has landed him in trouble after the Shirdi Trust expressed reservations over his reference to the resting place of Shirdi Saibaba.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi had earlier in the day tweeted: "Mitron, “Shirdi ke chamatkaro” ki toh koi “Seema” hi nahi hai." (Friends, there are no ‘boundaries’ of the ‘miracles of Shirdi’).

In his tweet, Rahul Gandhi had attacked Piyush Goyal and his wife insinuating that their company had reaped unnatural gains in recent years.

Rahul Gandhi’s tweet, however, did not amuse the Shirdi Saibaba Sansthan Trust. Dr Suresh Haware, who is the Chairman of the trust, was quite displeased at the snide remark involving the famous pilgrimage site.

Dr Haware, in a tweet, demanded that the Congress leader should apologise to the followers of Shirdi for insulting the deity.

"Rahulji, it is unfortunate to drag the name of Shirdi for political gains. Saibhakts from around the world is hurt by it your tweet. We condemn it on behalf of all Saibhakts. You should apologise," Haware tweeted.

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राहुलजी, राजनैतिक आरोप-प्रत्यारोप के बीच “शिर्डी “ को खिचना बहुत दर्दनाक है। ईससे, देश-विदेशके साईभक्तोंको बहुत ठेस पहुंची है।सभी साईभक्तोंकी ओरसे हम इसकी निंदा करते है।इस अपमानके लिए साईभक्तोंकी आपने माफी मांगनी चाहिए। <a href="https://t.co/6OZobd8NQ6">pic.twitter.com/6OZobd8NQ6</a>
— Dr. Suresh Haware (@sureshhaware) <a href="https://twitter.com/sureshhaware/status/983992666127044609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Many political leaders and&nbsp;individuals have also expressed displeasure over the insensitive remark.

Rahul Gandhi had earlier in the day tweeted: Mitron, “Shirdi ke chamatkaro” ki toh koi “Seema” hi nahi hai. (Friends, there are no ‘boundaries’ of the ‘miracles of Shirdi’).

Congress President Rahul Gandhi's tweet targeting Union Minister Piyush Goyal has landed him in trouble after the Shirdi Trust expressed reservations over his reference to the resting place of Shirdi Saibaba. Rahul Gandhi had earlier in the day tweeted: "Mitron, “Shirdi ke chamatkaro” ki toh koi “Seema” hi nahi hai." (Friends, there are no ‘boundaries’ of the ‘miracles of Shirdi’). In his tweet, Rahul Gandhi had attacked Piyush Goyal and his wife insinuating that their company had reaped unnatural gains in recent years. Rahul Gandhi’s tweet, however, did not amuse the Shirdi Saibaba Sansthan Trust. Dr Suresh Haware, who is the Chairman of the trust, was quite displeased at the snide remark involving the famous pilgrimage site. Dr Haware, in a tweet, demanded that the Congress leader should apologise to the followers of Shirdi for insulting the deity. "Rahulji, it is unfortunate to drag the name of Shirdi for political gains. Saibhakts from around the world is hurt by it your tweet. We condemn it on behalf of all Saibhakts. You should apologise," Haware tweeted. राहुलजी, राजनैतिक आरोप-प्रत्यारोप के बीच “शिर्डी “ को खिचना बहुत दर्दनाक है। ईससे, देश-विदेशके साईभक्तोंको बहुत ठेस पहुंची है।सभी साईभक्तोंकी ओरसे हम इसकी निंदा करते है।इस अपमानके लिए साईभक्तोंकी आपने माफी मांगनी चाहिए। pic.twitter.com/6OZobd8NQ6 — Dr. Suresh Haware (@sureshhaware) April 11, 2018 × Many political leaders and individuals have also expressed displeasure over the insensitive remark.

Rahul Gandhi uses Saibaba name in political fight; Shirdi Trust asks for apology

The teenage girl from Unnao, Uttar Pradesh, who was allegedly raped by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar has called for a stricter punishment for the culprits.&nbsp;

The girl, alleging prison-like conditions in the name of security, said, "I appeal to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to provide me justice. The District Magistrate has confined me to a hotel room. The staff are not even serving me water and food and are not letting us go outside. I just want the culprit to be punished."&nbsp;

The teen alleges that she was raped by Sengar and his brother last June.&nbsp;

Demanding the case to be handed over to Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the victim alleged that the administration has done little to ensure the security of women in the state.&nbsp;

"Yogiji had promised to make Uttar Pradesh crime-free. But, this has not happened in reality. He always makes lofty statements. Is this justice of Yogiji?" If the government doesn't support us, we will commit suicide," said the victim, who earlier attempted suicide outside Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's residence.&nbsp;

The victim, along with her family, has been kept in a hotel on security grounds after her father died in custody on Monday.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the wife of accused MLA, Sangeeta Sengar, who met Director General of Police, O.P. Singh in Lucknow, has dismissed the allegations.&nbsp;

The MLA's wife said, "There is a political motive behind this. Make my husband and girl (rape victim) undergo Narco Analysis Test. My daughters are being traumatised. We are being mentally harassed. No evidence has been presented yet. Until and unless it has been proven, my husband cannot be labelled as a rapist."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has agreed to hear a plea filed by a lawyer in the rape case. The lawyer sought a CBI inquiry and compensation for the victim's family.&nbsp;

On Sunday, the victim, along with her family members, tried to commit suicide in front of Adityanath's residence in Lucknow demanding justice.&nbsp;

Later, the victim's father was taken into police custody from the location. However, he was admitted to a hospital on Sunday night after complaining of abdominal pain and vomiting and subsequently passed away in the early hours of Monday.&nbsp;

Till now, five accused, including BJP MLA's brother Atul Singh, have been sent to jail.&nbsp;

However, the MLA has not been arrested.

(With inputs from ANI)

The 16-year-old girl from Unnao was allegedly raped by BJP lawmaker Kuldeep Singh Sengar and his brother in June last year. The family says her father was attacked after he refused to withdraw his daughter's complaint of rape.

The teenage girl from Unnao, Uttar Pradesh, who was allegedly raped by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar has called for a stricter punishment for the culprits. The girl, alleging prison-like conditions in the name of security, said, "I appeal to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to provide me justice. The District Magistrate has confined me to a hotel room. The staff are not even serving me water and food and are not letting us go outside. I just want the culprit to be punished." The teen alleges that she was raped by Sengar and his brother last June. Demanding the case to be handed over to Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the victim alleged that the administration has done little to ensure the security of women in the state. "Yogiji had promised to make Uttar Pradesh crime-free. But, this has not happened in reality. He always makes lofty statements. Is this justice of Yogiji?" If the government doesn't support us, we will commit suicide," said the victim, who earlier attempted suicide outside Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's residence. The victim, along with her family, has been kept in a hotel on security grounds after her father died in custody on Monday. Meanwhile, the wife of accused MLA, Sangeeta Sengar, who met Director General of Police, O.P. Singh in Lucknow, has dismissed the allegations. The MLA's wife said, "There is a political motive behind this. Make my husband and girl (rape victim) undergo Narco Analysis Test. My daughters are being traumatised. We are being mentally harassed. No evidence has been presented yet. Until and unless it has been proven, my husband cannot be labelled as a rapist." Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has agreed to hear a plea filed by a lawyer in the rape case. The lawyer sought a CBI inquiry and compensation for the victim's family. On Sunday, the victim, along with her family members, tried to commit suicide in front of Adityanath's residence in Lucknow demanding justice. Later, the victim's father was taken into police custody from the location. However, he was admitted to a hospital on Sunday night after complaining of abdominal pain and vomiting and subsequently passed away in the early hours of Monday. Till now, five accused, including BJP MLA's brother Atul Singh, have been sent to jail. However, the MLA has not been arrested. (With inputs from ANI)

'Is this justice of Yogiji?' asks Unnao gang-rape victim

Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modis proposed daylong fast against complete washout of Parliaments Budget session, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said that one hoped that he would also fast over the latest custodial killing in Uttar Pradesh.

Unnao gang-rape case has snowballed into a full-blown controversy with the Supreme Court announcing that it will hear next week a plea for a CBI probe into the matter.&nbsp;

It has been alleged in the plea that the minor was abducted and raped by a BJP MLA from Uttar Pradesh and others in July 2017. The victim’s father died after he was taken to custody by police.&nbsp;

The victim has alleged that the Unnao district magistrate had confined her in a hotel room without providing water.

On the other hand, accused BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar’s wife claimed that he had isolated himself accused media of declaring his husband a rapist.&nbsp;

Police had on Tuesday arrested the MLA’s brother Atul Singh.&nbsp;

The Allahabad High Court also took suo motu cognisance of the matter and sought a detailed report on the case from the Yogi Adityanath government. The court is set to hear the case tomorrow

The Uttar Pradesh government has been on the backfoot ever since the Unnao rape case came to light and the father of the complainant died in police custody.&nbsp;

“The barbarism unleashed against a father seeking justice for his (rape survivor) daughter in Uttar Pradesh has shamed the humanity.We hope that the Prime Minister will also observe a fast very soon over atrocities against women, increasing lawlessness and anarchy under the BJP rule.,” the Congress president tweeted in Hindi.

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UP में अपनी बेटी के लिए न्याय की गुहार कर रहे एक पिता पर हुई बर्बरता ने मानवता को शर्मसार कर दिया है। 
 
आशा है कि प्रधानमंत्रीजी भाजपा शासन में महिलाओं पर हो रहे अत्याचार, कानून तंत्र की विफलता और बढ़ती अराजकता के लिए भी जल्द ही उपवास रखेंगे। <a href="https://t.co/MsXOW0QbPW">pic.twitter.com/MsXOW0QbPW</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/984009055416045568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Earlier on Monday, Rahul took a jibe at the Modi government's 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' campaign, tweeting: "Save the girl, get yourself killed. A young girl accuses a BJP MLA of rape. The police, instead of arresting the MLA, take the girl's father into custody. Immediately after that, he dies in police custody."

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बेटी बचाओ-खुद मारे जाओ 
 
एक युवती भाजपा MLA पर बलात्कार का आरोप लगाती है| MLA को गिरफ्तार करने के बजाय पुलिस युवती के पिता को हिरासत में ले लेती है| उसके तुरंत बाद पुलिस कस्टडी में उनकी मृत्यु हो जाती है| 
 
वहीँ आरोपी भाजपा विधायक अभी भी खुले घूम रहे हैं|<a href="https://t.co/TN5GDXm7Ow">https://t.co/TN5GDXm7Ow</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/983328059028836352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

It has been alleged in the plea that the minor was abducted and raped by a BJP MLA from Uttar Pradesh and others in July 2017.

Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modis proposed daylong fast against complete washout of Parliaments Budget session, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said that one hoped that he would also fast over the latest custodial killing in Uttar Pradesh. Unnao gang-rape case has snowballed into a full-blown controversy with the Supreme Court announcing that it will hear next week a plea for a CBI probe into the matter. It has been alleged in the plea that the minor was abducted and raped by a BJP MLA from Uttar Pradesh and others in July 2017. The victim’s father died after he was taken to custody by police. The victim has alleged that the Unnao district magistrate had confined her in a hotel room without providing water. On the other hand, accused BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar’s wife claimed that he had isolated himself accused media of declaring his husband a rapist. Police had on Tuesday arrested the MLA’s brother Atul Singh. The Allahabad High Court also took suo motu cognisance of the matter and sought a detailed report on the case from the Yogi Adityanath government. The court is set to hear the case tomorrow The Uttar Pradesh government has been on the backfoot ever since the Unnao rape case came to light and the father of the complainant died in police custody. “The barbarism unleashed against a father seeking justice for his (rape survivor) daughter in Uttar Pradesh has shamed the humanity.We hope that the Prime Minister will also observe a fast very soon over atrocities against women, increasing lawlessness and anarchy under the BJP rule.,” the Congress president tweeted in Hindi. UP में अपनी बेटी के लिए न्याय की गुहार कर रहे एक पिता पर हुई बर्बरता ने मानवता को शर्मसार कर दिया है। आशा है कि प्रधानमंत्रीजी भाजपा शासन में महिलाओं पर हो रहे अत्याचार, कानून तंत्र की विफलता और बढ़ती अराजकता के लिए भी जल्द ही उपवास रखेंगे। pic.twitter.com/MsXOW0QbPW — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) April 11, 2018 × Earlier on Monday, Rahul took a jibe at the Modi government's 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' campaign, tweeting: "Save the girl, get yourself killed. A young girl accuses a BJP MLA of rape. The police, instead of arresting the MLA, take the girl's father into custody. Immediately after that, he dies in police custody." बेटी बचाओ-खुद मारे जाओ एक युवती भाजपा MLA पर बलात्कार का आरोप लगाती है| MLA को गिरफ्तार करने के बजाय पुलिस युवती के पिता को हिरासत में ले लेती है| उसके तुरंत बाद पुलिस कस्टडी में उनकी मृत्यु हो जाती है| वहीँ आरोपी भाजपा विधायक अभी भी खुले घूम रहे हैं|https://t.co/TN5GDXm7Ow — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) April 9, 2018 ×

Humanity is ashamed: Rahul Gandhi on Unnao gang rape

A day after Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg apologised to the US lawmakers for "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/i-started-facebook-i-run-it-and-im-responsible-for-what-happens-here-zuckerberg-at-joint-senate-committee-hearing-129702">failing&nbsp;to secure the data of users</a>"&nbsp;on the social media giant, Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad has demanded an apology from Congress president Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;

Prasad took to twitter asking Rahul Gandhi to apologise and ensure that he would "not manipulate voters and divide society in future".

He tweeted "Now that Cambridge Analytica's role in manipulating elections is clear and Facebook has assured to stop it and maintain the integrity&nbsp;of India's elections, probity demands that @RahulGandhi should apologise and promise not to manipulate voters and divide the society in future".

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Now that Cambridge Analytica‘s role in manipulating elections is clear & Facebook has assured to stop it and maintain integrity of India’s elections, probity demands that <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> should apologise & promise not to manipulate voters and divide the society in future! <a href="https://t.co/xo4iJUJsBw">https://t.co/xo4iJUJsBw</a>
— Ravi Shankar Prasad (@rsprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/rsprasad/status/983925491253088257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Days before several reports had revealed how the consulting firm "Cambridge Analytica"&nbsp;used data scraped from 87 million Facebook users to target political advertisements ahead of the 2016 US election. 
&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/user-details-on-namo-app-sold-to-private-companies-french-security-researcher-36994">Rahul Gandhi had earlier attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi </a>of passing data of people who sign up for his official NaMo app to American companies.

He tweeted " Hi! My name is Narendra Modi. I am India's Prime Minister. When you sign up for my official Ap, I give all your data to my friends in American companies".

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Hi! My name is Narendra Modi. I am India's Prime Minister. When you sign up for my official App, I give all your data to my friends in American companies. 
 
Ps. Thanks mainstream media, you're doing a great job of burying this critical story, as always.<a href="https://t.co/IZYzkuH1ZH">https://t.co/IZYzkuH1ZH</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/977778259810226177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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His attack was followed after a French security researcher had accused PM Modi of passing on the data of people connected to NaMo app.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-data-in-no-way-is-stored-or-used-by-the-third-party-services-government-on-namo-app-37032">government had responded to the attacks</a> by issuing a statement which said: "The data exposed by the French Twitter user is the data entered by the user on his own device. This is not a security breach. The person does not have access to any data apart from his own data."

&nbsp;

Union Law Minister tweeted 'Now that Cambridge Analytica's role in manipulating elections is clear and Facebook has assured to stop it and maintain the integrity of India's elections, probity demands that @RahulGandhi should apologise and promise not to manipulate voters and divide the society in future'

A day after Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg apologised to the US lawmakers for "failing to secure the data of users" on the social media giant, Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad has demanded an apology from Congress president Rahul Gandhi. Prasad took to twitter asking Rahul Gandhi to apologise and ensure that he would "not manipulate voters and divide society in future". He tweeted "Now that Cambridge Analytica's role in manipulating elections is clear and Facebook has assured to stop it and maintain the integrity of India's elections, probity demands that @RahulGandhi should apologise and promise not to manipulate voters and divide the society in future". Now that Cambridge Analytica‘s role in manipulating elections is clear & Facebook has assured to stop it and maintain integrity of India’s elections, probity demands that @RahulGandhi should apologise & promise not to manipulate voters and divide the society in future! https://t.co/xo4iJUJsBw — Ravi Shankar Prasad (@rsprasad) April 11, 2018 × Days before several reports had revealed how the consulting firm "Cambridge Analytica" used data scraped from 87 million Facebook users to target political advertisements ahead of the 2016 US election. Rahul Gandhi had earlier attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi of passing data of people who sign up for his official NaMo app to American companies. He tweeted " Hi! My name is Narendra Modi. I am India's Prime Minister. When you sign up for my official Ap, I give all your data to my friends in American companies". Hi! My name is Narendra Modi. I am India's Prime Minister. When you sign up for my official App, I give all your data to my friends in American companies. Ps. Thanks mainstream media, you're doing a great job of burying this critical story, as always.https://t.co/IZYzkuH1ZH — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) March 25, 2018 × His attack was followed after a French security researcher had accused PM Modi of passing on the data of people connected to NaMo app. The government had responded to the attacks by issuing a statement which said: "The data exposed by the French Twitter user is the data entered by the user on his own device. This is not a security breach. The person does not have access to any data apart from his own data."

After Zuckerberg's apologies to US lawmakers, Ravi Shankar Prasad wants Rahul Gandhi to apologise

Congress president Rahul Gandhi today asserted that the mood in Karnataka was in favour of his party and it would win the May 12 polls, as he concluded his six rounds of "Yatra" in the run-up to the elections.

Addressing a public rally here to mark the culmination of his "Janarshivad Yatra" covering all regions of the state, Rahul accused the Narendra Modi government of discriminating against the Congress government in Karnataka.

"Karnataka's mood is in favour of the Congress party and we will the election," Gandhi said, winding up the last lap of his "yatra", which he devoted to mainly attack the Modi government.

The visit also saw Gandhi visit temples and other religious places and interact with Hindu seers, besides holding roadshows and mingling with crowds.

"Wherever PM Modi goes he speaks his maan ki baat. I would like to tell you that the Congress party will listen to maan ki baat and on the basis of what is in your mind we will run the government."

"We will work towards progress by taking everyone together. It will be the government of everyone, of every religion, caste and language," he told the gathering at the sprawling Palace Grounds.

Gandhi said the Karnataka elections was a "fight between two ideologies."

"On one side Congress that like Bengaluru works for joining everyone, spreads brotherhood and love. On the other side BJP, RSS and Nagpur's ideology. It's the ideology of spreading anger, hate and dividing."

He also attacked BJP president Amit Shah for his remarks equating opposition parties with animals.

"I want to tell you from this stage that no Congress leader can ever make such statement."

At a rally in Mumbai to mark BJP's foundation day on Thursday, Shah had equated opposition parties to 'snakes' and mongoose' and 'dogs' and 'cats', who are seeking to unite despite their inherent differences to take on BJP in next year's Lok Sabha polls.

Shah later said what he meant was political parties having no ideological similarities were coming together out of fear of Modi.

Gandhi said "when Modi speaks, he should from the stage speak about Nirav Modi, Rafale aircraft, Amit Shah's son, Gujarat petroleum scam and Yeddyurappa."

At a rally in Mumbai to mark BJP's foundation day on Thursday, Shah had equated opposition parties to 'snakes' and mongoose' and 'dogs' and 'cats'

Congress president Rahul Gandhi today asserted that the mood in Karnataka was in favour of his party and it would win the May 12 polls, as he concluded his six rounds of "Yatra" in the run-up to the elections. Addressing a public rally here to mark the culmination of his "Janarshivad Yatra" covering all regions of the state, Rahul accused the Narendra Modi government of discriminating against the Congress government in Karnataka. "Karnataka's mood is in favour of the Congress party and we will the election," Gandhi said, winding up the last lap of his "yatra", which he devoted to mainly attack the Modi government. The visit also saw Gandhi visit temples and other religious places and interact with Hindu seers, besides holding roadshows and mingling with crowds. "Wherever PM Modi goes he speaks his maan ki baat. I would like to tell you that the Congress party will listen to maan ki baat and on the basis of what is in your mind we will run the government." "We will work towards progress by taking everyone together. It will be the government of everyone, of every religion, caste and language," he told the gathering at the sprawling Palace Grounds. Gandhi said the Karnataka elections was a "fight between two ideologies." "On one side Congress that like Bengaluru works for joining everyone, spreads brotherhood and love. On the other side BJP, RSS and Nagpur's ideology. It's the ideology of spreading anger, hate and dividing." He also attacked BJP president Amit Shah for his remarks equating opposition parties with animals. "I want to tell you from this stage that no Congress leader can ever make such statement." At a rally in Mumbai to mark BJP's foundation day on Thursday, Shah had equated opposition parties to 'snakes' and mongoose' and 'dogs' and 'cats', who are seeking to unite despite their inherent differences to take on BJP in next year's Lok Sabha polls. Shah later said what he meant was political parties having no ideological similarities were coming together out of fear of Modi. Gandhi said "when Modi speaks, he should from the stage speak about Nirav Modi, Rafale aircraft, Amit Shah's son, Gujarat petroleum scam and Yeddyurappa."

Karnataka elections fight between two ideologies: Rahul Gandhi

Dalit organisations staging fresh protests and called for a strike in Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, on Monday over alleged&nbsp;dilusion of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.&nbsp;

The strike call&nbsp;was called by 30 Dalit organisations, reports said. It was also reported that the protestors blocked vehicles and shutdown shops, Dalit activists are laying siege on road at Thiruvananthapuram.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Police arrested Dalit activist and Aadivasi Gothra Mahasabha leader Geethanandan and held 15 others as well for allegedly blocking vehicles at Kochi.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/scheduled-caste-and-scheduled-tribe-act-why-the-dalits-are-protesting-127874">Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Act: Why the Dalits are protesting</a>

Police have beefed up security across the state with reports of violence expected as&nbsp;a result of the strike-call. Kerala Vypari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samiti refused to support the strike&nbsp;and announced shops will be open on Monday, reports said.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a>: Members of Dalit community organisations stage protest in Thiruvananthapuram over SC/ST Act issue. <a href="https://t.co/WstiaLqCmA">pic.twitter.com/WstiaLqCmA</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/983181439738015744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/-dalit-community-being-tortured-during-bharat-bandh-bjp-lawmaker-udit-raj-129068">Dalit community being 'tortured' after Bharat Bandh: BJP lawmaker Udit Raj</a>

As the Dalit agitation continued on Sunday, Congress leader Nitin Raut said Dalits, who are "angry" with the NDA government, will play a key role in deciding the country's next prime minister a year down the line.

Newly-appointed chairman of the Congress' SC department Raut said Dalit youth will get attracted to Gandhi's leadership for a positive future than other non-BJP/NDA leaders, including those representing the community.

Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-reaches-out-to-dalit-community-says-no-one-respected-ambedkar-the-way-our-govt-has-128296">Narendra Modi </a>on April 4 had said no regime had honoured B R Ambedkar as his government had.

Modi's remarks come soon after widespread protests, some turning violent, in different parts of the country over a Supreme Court verdict putting in place safeguards to prevent misuse of a law to prevent atrocities of SCs and STs.

The violence swept across north India, with Dalits protesting against a recent Supreme Court order on the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The Supreme Court order bans the automatic arrest and filing of cases against people accused under the act.

Dalits have been protesting against a recent Supreme Court order on the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act

Dalit organisations staging fresh protests and called for a strike in Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, on Monday over alleged dilusion of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The strike call was called by 30 Dalit organisations, reports said. It was also reported that the protestors blocked vehicles and shutdown shops, Dalit activists are laying siege on road at Thiruvananthapuram. Meanwhile, Police arrested Dalit activist and Aadivasi Gothra Mahasabha leader Geethanandan and held 15 others as well for allegedly blocking vehicles at Kochi. Also read: Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Act: Why the Dalits are protesting Police have beefed up security across the state with reports of violence expected as a result of the strike-call. Kerala Vypari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samiti refused to support the strike and announced shops will be open on Monday, reports said. #Kerala: Members of Dalit community organisations stage protest in Thiruvananthapuram over SC/ST Act issue. pic.twitter.com/WstiaLqCmA — ANI (@ANI) April 9, 2018 × Also read: Dalit community being 'tortured' after Bharat Bandh: BJP lawmaker Udit Raj As the Dalit agitation continued on Sunday, Congress leader Nitin Raut said Dalits, who are "angry" with the NDA government, will play a key role in deciding the country's next prime minister a year down the line. Newly-appointed chairman of the Congress' SC department Raut said Dalit youth will get attracted to Gandhi's leadership for a positive future than other non-BJP/NDA leaders, including those representing the community. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 4 had said no regime had honoured B R Ambedkar as his government had. Modi's remarks come soon after widespread protests, some turning violent, in different parts of the country over a Supreme Court verdict putting in place safeguards to prevent misuse of a law to prevent atrocities of SCs and STs. The violence swept across north India, with Dalits protesting against a recent Supreme Court order on the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The Supreme Court order bans the automatic arrest and filing of cases against people accused under the act.

SC/ST Act: Dalit organisations call for shutdown in Kerala

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Sunday took a ride in Bangalore metro, shopped for books and savoured local delicacies. Gandhi was on a two-day weekend visit to poll-bound Karnataka.

"Gandhi, accompanied by party leaders, rode the metro and later shopped for some books at a bookstore in the city centre," a party official said.

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Congress President <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> takes time out for a selfie during a ride on the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NammaMetro?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NammaMetro</a> in Bengaluru. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BengaluruNammaHemme?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BengaluruNammaHemme</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JanaAashirwadaYatre?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JanaAashirwadaYatre</a> <a href="https://t.co/A6tq6msmHW">pic.twitter.com/A6tq6msmHW</a>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/982917404966744065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Congress chief boarded the metro at Vidhana Soudha metro station and took a train&nbsp;to MG Road station.

Gandhi was accompanied by other senior party leaders like state unit chief G. Parameshwara, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, senior party leader Mallikarjun Kharge and state in-charge K.C.Venugopal, among others. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah bought metro tickets for all party leaders.

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CM <a href="https://twitter.com/siddaramaiah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@siddaramaiah</a> bought & gifted books to Congress President <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> at a bookstore in Church Street.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BengaluruNammaHemme?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BengaluruNammaHemme</a> <a href="https://t.co/RNC7AP5HkX">pic.twitter.com/RNC7AP5HkX</a>
— Karnataka Congress (@INCKarnataka) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCKarnataka/status/982925090844274688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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After the metro-ride, Rahul Gandhi visited High Street, a recently renovated vehicle-free pedestrian plaza.

He also visited a bookstore located at Church Street and browsed through books.<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3ZkUkJHyqbc" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>

CM Siddaramaiah bought and gifted books to Gandhi, that included Tamil writer Perumal Murugan's 'The Goat Thief', British author Karen Armstrong's 'A History of God', 'The Art of Living' by Vietnamese monk Thich Nhat Hanh and a book on the Japanese concept of 'Ikigai'.

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Congress President <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> stops for lunch at Koshys. The staff share pictures of Former Prime Ministers Nehru ji and Indira ji dining at their establishment. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JanaAashirwadaYatre?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JanaAashirwadaYatre</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BengaluruNammaHemme?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BengaluruNammaHemme</a> <a href="https://t.co/pTMVypZQ7f">pic.twitter.com/pTMVypZQ7f</a>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/982924519286411264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Gandhi, along with other leaders, stopped at Koshys for a quick traditional lunch and was spotted indulging in post-lunch&nbsp;kulfis at a local joint.

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Congress President Rahul Gandhi stops by for a post-lunch kulfi in Bengaluru. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JanaAashirwadaYatre?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JanaAashirwadaYatre</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BengaluruNammaHemme?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BengaluruNammaHemme</a> <a href="https://t.co/KUZyMIGZOF">pic.twitter.com/KUZyMIGZOF</a>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/982932346168016896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

After metro-ride, Rahul Gandhi visited High Street, a recently renovated vehicle-free pedestrian plaza

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Sunday took a ride in Bangalore metro, shopped for books and savoured local delicacies. Gandhi was on a two-day weekend visit to poll-bound Karnataka. "Gandhi, accompanied by party leaders, rode the metro and later shopped for some books at a bookstore in the city centre," a party official said. Congress President @RahulGandhi takes time out for a selfie during a ride on the #NammaMetro in Bengaluru. #BengaluruNammaHemme #JanaAashirwadaYatre pic.twitter.com/A6tq6msmHW — Congress (@INCIndia) April 8, 2018 × Congress chief boarded the metro at Vidhana Soudha metro station and took a train to MG Road station. Gandhi was accompanied by other senior party leaders like state unit chief G. Parameshwara, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, senior party leader Mallikarjun Kharge and state in-charge K.C.Venugopal, among others. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah bought metro tickets for all party leaders. CM @siddaramaiah bought & gifted books to Congress President @RahulGandhi at a bookstore in Church Street.#BengaluruNammaHemme pic.twitter.com/RNC7AP5HkX — Karnataka Congress (@INCKarnataka) April 8, 2018 × After the metro-ride, Rahul Gandhi visited High Street, a recently renovated vehicle-free pedestrian plaza. He also visited a bookstore located at Church Street and browsed through books. CM Siddaramaiah bought and gifted books to Gandhi, that included Tamil writer Perumal Murugan's 'The Goat Thief', British author Karen Armstrong's 'A History of God', 'The Art of Living' by Vietnamese monk Thich Nhat Hanh and a book on the Japanese concept of 'Ikigai'. Congress President @RahulGandhi stops for lunch at Koshys. The staff share pictures of Former Prime Ministers Nehru ji and Indira ji dining at their establishment. #JanaAashirwadaYatre #BengaluruNammaHemme pic.twitter.com/pTMVypZQ7f — Congress (@INCIndia) April 8, 2018 × Gandhi, along with other leaders, stopped at Koshys for a quick traditional lunch and was spotted indulging in post-lunch kulfis at a local joint. Congress President Rahul Gandhi stops by for a post-lunch kulfi in Bengaluru. #JanaAashirwadaYatre #BengaluruNammaHemme pic.twitter.com/KUZyMIGZOF — Congress (@INCIndia) April 8, 2018 × (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Rahul Gandhi takes a metro ride, browses books in Bengaluru

Forget the BJP winning the 2019 polls, even Prime Minister Narendra Modi might lose his Varanasi seat under a united opposition, asserted Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Sunday.

Pegging his confidence on opposition unity, Gandhi said far from the BJP winning the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, even Modi might lose from Varanasi if his party, the SP and the BSP were united against him.

Exuding confidence over roping in and managing alliance partners despite their varied personal and regional aspirations, Gandhi predicted for the current ruling dispensation, a "collapse" not "seen in many years."

"Frankly, I don't see the BJP winning the next election, so in 2019 we will go back to the normal, I sense," he said in reply to a question on "Dalit anger."

"...because there are two basic things, once opposition unity goes above a certain level, it becomes impossible to win elections. Now the opposition unity has gone to a point. It's simple," Gandhi said at an informal media interaction.

Pointing at the opposition unity efforts in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and by the DMK, the Trinamool Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party in Tamil Nadu, Gandhi asked, "Where are they (BJP) going to win seats?"

And in Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab. We will take it over."

"You are going to see a collapse of the style you haven't seen in many years," he said.

Gandhi was on the sixth leg of campaigning as part of the 'Janashirvada Yatra' ahead of the May 12 polls in Karnataka.

Responding to a question doubting the forging of opposition unity amid varied aspirations of each party and their leaders, Gandhi expressed confidence of overcoming it.

"We will manage it. We in the Congress know how to carry people, we are not egotistical people, we don't crush people and we don't destroy people's lives, so we will manage it," he said.

The basic thing is how to get the country out of the "mess that Mr Modi and RSS has put it in," he said.

The Congress president also ruled out the emergence of any third front.

Accusing the RSS of generating anger and hatred, Gandhi alleged that people are being killed for what they are saying and that needs to be put to an end.

"The natural sort of political environment where there is a little bit of acrimony, but not hatred, needs to be restored," he said.

Stating that Modi had a "very good" opportunity after the 2014 election, Gandhi said a lot could have been done for the country.

Terming as "funny" the BJP's confidence of breaking the opposition alliance in Uttar Pradesh and claiming that he understands UP politics, Rahul said when the three parties (SP, BSP and Congress) come together, "BJP will win only two seats, that too with luck.&nbsp;

He said even Modi may lose if he stands from Varanasi and the three parties were united against him.

"In fact, I challenge him to stand with three parties united," he added.

The BSP and the SP jointly fought Gorakhpur and Phulpur Lok Sabha seats during the recent bypolls, costing the BJP both the seats, vacated respectively by Uttar Pradesh chief minister and deputy chief minister.

Hitting out at Modi and the BJP, the Congress president said they have lost track of running the country.

"You can't run this country as an individual, you have to run this country by listening to it, by working with it... and now after four years, he (Modi) has suddenly lost it, because now the wheels are running on them. Everybody can see that, you can hear it in his speeches," he said.&nbsp;

Responding to a question, Rahul blamed the "mentality" for Modi and BJP losing track.&nbsp;

He said, "...it is the mentality... you stand in front of Basavanna (12th-century social reformer from Karnataka) or Ambedkar, praise them, and then you destroy everything that they stood for..."&nbsp;

"Basavanna is an idea, he is the representative of the idea of Karnataka, you can go and stand in front of his statue as much as you want, but it won't work if you are destroying the idea... so, it is the mentality..." he said.

Sharing his experience in Gujarat, he said those raising "Modi Modi" slogans were nice to him when he met them and claimed they were "paid" for their sloganeering.&nbsp;

The BSP and the SP jointly fought Gorakhpur and Phulpur Lok Sabha seats during the recent bypolls, costing the BJP both the seats.

Forget the BJP winning the 2019 polls, even Prime Minister Narendra Modi might lose his Varanasi seat under a united opposition, asserted Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Sunday. Pegging his confidence on opposition unity, Gandhi said far from the BJP winning the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, even Modi might lose from Varanasi if his party, the SP and the BSP were united against him. Exuding confidence over roping in and managing alliance partners despite their varied personal and regional aspirations, Gandhi predicted for the current ruling dispensation, a "collapse" not "seen in many years." "Frankly, I don't see the BJP winning the next election, so in 2019 we will go back to the normal, I sense," he said in reply to a question on "Dalit anger." "...because there are two basic things, once opposition unity goes above a certain level, it becomes impossible to win elections. Now the opposition unity has gone to a point. It's simple," Gandhi said at an informal media interaction. Pointing at the opposition unity efforts in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and by the DMK, the Trinamool Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party in Tamil Nadu, Gandhi asked, "Where are they (BJP) going to win seats?" And in Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab. We will take it over." "You are going to see a collapse of the style you haven't seen in many years," he said. Gandhi was on the sixth leg of campaigning as part of the 'Janashirvada Yatra' ahead of the May 12 polls in Karnataka. Responding to a question doubting the forging of opposition unity amid varied aspirations of each party and their leaders, Gandhi expressed confidence of overcoming it. "We will manage it. We in the Congress know how to carry people, we are not egotistical people, we don't crush people and we don't destroy people's lives, so we will manage it," he said. The basic thing is how to get the country out of the "mess that Mr Modi and RSS has put it in," he said. The Congress president also ruled out the emergence of any third front. Accusing the RSS of generating anger and hatred, Gandhi alleged that people are being killed for what they are saying and that needs to be put to an end. "The natural sort of political environment where there is a little bit of acrimony, but not hatred, needs to be restored," he said. Stating that Modi had a "very good" opportunity after the 2014 election, Gandhi said a lot could have been done for the country. Terming as "funny" the BJP's confidence of breaking the opposition alliance in Uttar Pradesh and claiming that he understands UP politics, Rahul said when the three parties (SP, BSP and Congress) come together, "BJP will win only two seats, that too with luck. He said even Modi may lose if he stands from Varanasi and the three parties were united against him. "In fact, I challenge him to stand with three parties united," he added. The BSP and the SP jointly fought Gorakhpur and Phulpur Lok Sabha seats during the recent bypolls, costing the BJP both the seats, vacated respectively by Uttar Pradesh chief minister and deputy chief minister. Hitting out at Modi and the BJP, the Congress president said they have lost track of running the country. "You can't run this country as an individual, you have to run this country by listening to it, by working with it... and now after four years, he (Modi) has suddenly lost it, because now the wheels are running on them. Everybody can see that, you can hear it in his speeches," he said. Responding to a question, Rahul blamed the "mentality" for Modi and BJP losing track. He said, "...it is the mentality... you stand in front of Basavanna (12th-century social reformer from Karnataka) or Ambedkar, praise them, and then you destroy everything that they stood for..." "Basavanna is an idea, he is the representative of the idea of Karnataka, you can go and stand in front of his statue as much as you want, but it won't work if you are destroying the idea... so, it is the mentality..." he said. Sharing his experience in Gujarat, he said those raising "Modi Modi" slogans were nice to him when he met them and claimed they were "paid" for their sloganeering.

Forget BJP winning 2019 polls, PM Modi will even lose Varanasi seat if Opposition unites: Rahul Gandhi

Dalits, who are "angry" with the NDA government, will play a key role in deciding the country's next prime minister a year down the line and back Congress president Rahul Gandhi for the coveted slot, party leader Nitin Raut has said.

Newly-appointed chairman of the Congress' SC department Raut said Dalit youth will get attracted to Gandhi's leadership for a positive future than other non-BJP/NDA leaders, including those representing the community.

This is mainly because the Congress chief stands a chance to become the prime minister unlike those leaders, he added.

The former Maharashtra minister also dismissed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent claim that his government has honoured Dalit icon B R Ambedkar like no other previous dispensation. Raut charged Modi and the BJP with issuing such statements only eyeing the community's votes.

Dalits, especially the community youth, are feeling angry under the NDA's regime. They are being denied educational, employment opportunities which never happened when the Congress was in power. This anger will make Dalits play a key role in deciding the next prime minister, Raut said.

He said in the run up to the next Lok Sabha polls, his department will focus hard on uniting as many Dalits as possible under the Congress' umbrella to see Gandhi is propelled to the post of the prime minister.

There are 84 parliamentary seats which are reserved for the scheduled castes across the country. The BJP had won more of these seats than any other party in the 2014 general elections. The Congress could win only 3-4 of these reserved seats, Raut said.

We will try to win maximum seats possible in 2019 based on the works governments led by our party had done for the Dalits. We have records to show that. We will try to unite Dalits, he said.

At a time when Dalit voters are divided and follow several leaders like Jignesh Mevani, Raut said the community members will be attracted to Gandhi nationally as he is more likely to become the prime minister than the former.

He also said Dalits have no option but to look at the Congress, if they don't want BJP at the Centre again given no other party than either of these two will be able to form the next government.

Dalits have accepted, honoured leaders like Mevani or the others. But these leaders are yet to establish their parties nationally. So, they can't be prime minister," Raut said.

Dalits, therefore, will get attracted towards whoever is likely to become a prime minister. It will be our endeavour to see Rahul Ji in that position, he said.

Raut also said his party will work to see that the promises made to Dalits are kept after it comes to power.

Criticising Modi over his comment that his government has honoured Ambedkar more than any other government, Raut said the Dalit icon himself was not supportive of the RSS or Hindu Mahasabha.

What have they (the BJP) given to the members of the community in actual terms? Merely constructing memorials or monuments does not suffice, but you have to deliver for people. So, what they are saying is basically eyeing votes, he said.

Dalits, who are 'angry' with the NDA government, will play a key role in deciding the country's next prime minister a year down the line and back Congress president Rahul Gandhi for the coveted slot, party leader Nitin Raut has said

Dalits, who are "angry" with the NDA government, will play a key role in deciding the country's next prime minister a year down the line and back Congress president Rahul Gandhi for the coveted slot, party leader Nitin Raut has said. Newly-appointed chairman of the Congress' SC department Raut said Dalit youth will get attracted to Gandhi's leadership for a positive future than other non-BJP/NDA leaders, including those representing the community. This is mainly because the Congress chief stands a chance to become the prime minister unlike those leaders, he added. The former Maharashtra minister also dismissed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent claim that his government has honoured Dalit icon B R Ambedkar like no other previous dispensation. Raut charged Modi and the BJP with issuing such statements only eyeing the community's votes. Dalits, especially the community youth, are feeling angry under the NDA's regime. They are being denied educational, employment opportunities which never happened when the Congress was in power. This anger will make Dalits play a key role in deciding the next prime minister, Raut said. He said in the run up to the next Lok Sabha polls, his department will focus hard on uniting as many Dalits as possible under the Congress' umbrella to see Gandhi is propelled to the post of the prime minister. There are 84 parliamentary seats which are reserved for the scheduled castes across the country. The BJP had won more of these seats than any other party in the 2014 general elections. The Congress could win only 3-4 of these reserved seats, Raut said. We will try to win maximum seats possible in 2019 based on the works governments led by our party had done for the Dalits. We have records to show that. We will try to unite Dalits, he said. At a time when Dalit voters are divided and follow several leaders like Jignesh Mevani, Raut said the community members will be attracted to Gandhi nationally as he is more likely to become the prime minister than the former. He also said Dalits have no option but to look at the Congress, if they don't want BJP at the Centre again given no other party than either of these two will be able to form the next government. Dalits have accepted, honoured leaders like Mevani or the others. But these leaders are yet to establish their parties nationally. So, they can't be prime minister," Raut said. Dalits, therefore, will get attracted towards whoever is likely to become a prime minister. It will be our endeavour to see Rahul Ji in that position, he said. Raut also said his party will work to see that the promises made to Dalits are kept after it comes to power. Criticising Modi over his comment that his government has honoured Ambedkar more than any other government, Raut said the Dalit icon himself was not supportive of the RSS or Hindu Mahasabha. What have they (the BJP) given to the members of the community in actual terms? Merely constructing memorials or monuments does not suffice, but you have to deliver for people. So, what they are saying is basically eyeing votes, he said.

Dalits will play key role in deciding country's next PM: Congress

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday slammed BJP chief Amit Shah's remarks equating the opposition parties with animals, alleging that the "disrespectful statement" reflected his "mentality" that considered Dalits, tribals, minorities and even his own party leaders "worthless".

"Calling the entire opposition animals...see according to Amit Shah and the basic vision of the BJP RSS - there are only two non-animals in this country. There is Mr Narendra Modi and there is Mr Amit Shah," Gandhi told reporters here.

"Everybody else as far as they are concerned are animals. That's fine, that is the way they look at the world. It is a disrespectful statement, but we don't take what Mr Amit Shah says with too much seriousness," Gandhi said. Taking a swipe at Shah, the Congress chief said it was the mentality that there were only two or three people in this country "who are worth anything, who understand everything and everybody else is a worthless person".

"It's not only Dalits, it's tribals, it's minorities. It doesn't stop there. It's Mr Advani, Mr Manohar Joshi, even Mr Gadkari, it's everybody," he said. "The thing is that the BJP people internally don't have guts to say it to you. They say it to us," Gandhi said.

The Congress president said, "the fact of the matter is between Mr Amit Shah and Mr Modi, they are convinced, there are only two human beings in this country. That's all, that's the reality."

At a rally in Mumbai to mark BJP's foundation day on Friday, Shah had equated opposition parties to 'snakes' and mongoose' and 'dogs' and 'cats', who are seeking to unite despite their inherent differences to take on the BJP in next year's Lok Sabha polls. Later, Shah said his intention was not to equate opposition parties with animals.

At the rally, Shah had said, "The countdown for 2019 (polls) has begun. Attempts are being made for opposition unity. When huge floods occur, everything is washed away. Only a "vatvriksha (banyan tree) survives and snakes, mongoose, dogs, cats and other animals climb to save themselves from the rising waters." At a press conference, Shah later said, "What I meant was political parties having no ideological similarities are coming together out of fear of Modi."

Shah had equated opposition parties to 'snakes' and mongoose' and 'dogs' and 'cats', who are seeking to unite despite their inherent differences to take on the BJP

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday slammed BJP chief Amit Shah's remarks equating the opposition parties with animals, alleging that the "disrespectful statement" reflected his "mentality" that considered Dalits, tribals, minorities and even his own party leaders "worthless". "Calling the entire opposition animals...see according to Amit Shah and the basic vision of the BJP RSS - there are only two non-animals in this country. There is Mr Narendra Modi and there is Mr Amit Shah," Gandhi told reporters here. "Everybody else as far as they are concerned are animals. That's fine, that is the way they look at the world. It is a disrespectful statement, but we don't take what Mr Amit Shah says with too much seriousness," Gandhi said. Taking a swipe at Shah, the Congress chief said it was the mentality that there were only two or three people in this country "who are worth anything, who understand everything and everybody else is a worthless person". "It's not only Dalits, it's tribals, it's minorities. It doesn't stop there. It's Mr Advani, Mr Manohar Joshi, even Mr Gadkari, it's everybody," he said. "The thing is that the BJP people internally don't have guts to say it to you. They say it to us," Gandhi said. The Congress president said, "the fact of the matter is between Mr Amit Shah and Mr Modi, they are convinced, there are only two human beings in this country. That's all, that's the reality." At a rally in Mumbai to mark BJP's foundation day on Friday, Shah had equated opposition parties to 'snakes' and mongoose' and 'dogs' and 'cats', who are seeking to unite despite their inherent differences to take on the BJP in next year's Lok Sabha polls. Later, Shah said his intention was not to equate opposition parties with animals. At the rally, Shah had said, "The countdown for 2019 (polls) has begun. Attempts are being made for opposition unity. When huge floods occur, everything is washed away. Only a "vatvriksha (banyan tree) survives and snakes, mongoose, dogs, cats and other animals climb to save themselves from the rising waters." At a press conference, Shah later said, "What I meant was political parties having no ideological similarities are coming together out of fear of Modi."

Rahul Gandhi calls BJP chief’s animal remarks ‘disrespectful’, says don’t take Amit Shah seriously

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday escalated attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi for what he called a re-tendering of an approximately USD 15 billion fighter jet deal.

In a tweet, Gandhi speculated that Prime Minister Modi could re-tender the contract and "favour friends" involved with the controversial Rafale deal.

"Modi Scam Alert!

15 Billion $ fighter jet deal re-tendered. PM's friends race to tie up STRATEGIC partners.

RAFALE, 40,000 Cr. loss to exchequer was "Sayonara" money to French, so PM could re-tender contract and favour friends, "Gandhi said.

The Ministry of Defence on April 6 said India is in process of acquiring 110 fighter aircraft. This is one of the world's biggest military procurement in recent years as it could cost the Indian government a huge USD 15 billion, reports noted.

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Modi Scam Alert! 
 
15 Billion $ fighter jet deal re-tendered. PM's friends race to tie up STRATEGIC partners. 
 
RAFALE, 40,000 Cr. loss to exchequer was "Sayonara" money to French, so PM could re-tender contract and favour friends.<a href="https://t.co/X4oTNjkXTK">https://t.co/X4oTNjkXTK</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/982483009336217600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Request for Information for procurement of fighter aircraft for Indian Air Force for 110 fighter aircraft has been released by the Ministry of Defence.

"Procurement should have a maximum of 15 percent aircraft in flyway condition and 85 percent will be manufactured in India under 'Make in India'," said the Ministry of Defence.

It added that 25 percent fighter aircraft will be twin seat and 75 percent single seat.

The Nationalist Democratic Alliance (NDA) government had earlier signed a deal with France based Dassault Aviation of France to purchase 36 Rafale jets.

This is not the first time that Gandhi has alleged corruption in the Rafale deal.

In February, Gandhi posed eight questions to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the deal and alleged that the Prime Minister personally went to Paris and changed the deal.&nbsp;

In a tweet, Gandhi speculated that Prime Minister Modi could re-tender the contract and "favour friends" involved with the controversial Rafale deal.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday escalated attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi for what he called a re-tendering of an approximately USD 15 billion fighter jet deal. In a tweet, Gandhi speculated that Prime Minister Modi could re-tender the contract and "favour friends" involved with the controversial Rafale deal. "Modi Scam Alert! 15 Billion $ fighter jet deal re-tendered. PM's friends race to tie up STRATEGIC partners. RAFALE, 40,000 Cr. loss to exchequer was "Sayonara" money to French, so PM could re-tender contract and favour friends, "Gandhi said. The Ministry of Defence on April 6 said India is in process of acquiring 110 fighter aircraft. This is one of the world's biggest military procurement in recent years as it could cost the Indian government a huge USD 15 billion, reports noted. Modi Scam Alert! 15 Billion $ fighter jet deal re-tendered. PM's friends race to tie up STRATEGIC partners. RAFALE, 40,000 Cr. loss to exchequer was "Sayonara" money to French, so PM could re-tender contract and favour friends.https://t.co/X4oTNjkXTK — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) April 7, 2018 × Request for Information for procurement of fighter aircraft for Indian Air Force for 110 fighter aircraft has been released by the Ministry of Defence. "Procurement should have a maximum of 15 percent aircraft in flyway condition and 85 percent will be manufactured in India under 'Make in India'," said the Ministry of Defence. It added that 25 percent fighter aircraft will be twin seat and 75 percent single seat. The Nationalist Democratic Alliance (NDA) government had earlier signed a deal with France based Dassault Aviation of France to purchase 36 Rafale jets. This is not the first time that Gandhi has alleged corruption in the Rafale deal. In February, Gandhi posed eight questions to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the deal and alleged that the Prime Minister personally went to Paris and changed the deal.

Rahul steps up attack on PM Modi over 110 fighter aircraft purchase plan to 'favour friends'

Rahul Gandhi wishes Arun Jaitley a speedy recovery&nbsp

Congress president Rahul Gandhi wished Finance Minister Arun Jaitley a speedy recovery after the latter yesterday tweeted that he was treated for kidney related problems.&nbsp

Rahul tweeted ''I’m truly sorry to hear this @arunjaitley ji. I pray for your speedy recovery.''

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I’m truly sorry to hear this <a href="https://twitter.com/arunjaitley?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@arunjaitley</a> ji. I pray for your speedy recovery. <a href="https://t.co/NWRFo9ep9a">https://t.co/NWRFo9ep9a</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/982112489096724480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Yesterday <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/being-treated-for-kidney-related-problems-working-from-controlled-environment-at-home-arun-jaitley-128590">Jaitley tweeted</a> that he was being treated for kidney-related problems and certain infections that he has contracted.

''I am being treated for kidney related problems & certain infections that I have contracted. I am therefore currently working from controlled environment at home. The future course of my treatment would be determined by the doctors treating me,'' Jaitley tweeted on Thursday.&nbsp

Another Congress leader Shahi Tharoor also wished Jaitley a speedy recovery.&nbsp

''All the best @arunjaitley for a speedy & complete recovery,'' Tharoor tweeted.

Rahul tweeted ''I’m truly sorry to hear this @arunjaitley ji. I pray for your speedy recovery.''

Rahul Gandhi wishes Arun Jaitley a speedy recovery Congress president Rahul Gandhi wished Finance Minister Arun Jaitley a speedy recovery after the latter yesterday tweeted that he was treated for kidney related problems. Rahul tweeted ''I’m truly sorry to hear this @arunjaitley ji. I pray for your speedy recovery.'' I’m truly sorry to hear this @arunjaitley ji. I pray for your speedy recovery. https://t.co/NWRFo9ep9a — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) April 6, 2018 × Yesterday Jaitley tweeted that he was being treated for kidney-related problems and certain infections that he has contracted. ''I am being treated for kidney related problems & certain infections that I have contracted. I am therefore currently working from controlled environment at home. The future course of my treatment would be determined by the doctors treating me,'' Jaitley tweeted on Thursday. Another Congress leader Shahi Tharoor also wished Jaitley a speedy recovery. ''All the best @arunjaitley for a speedy & complete recovery,'' Tharoor tweeted.

Rahul Gandhi wishes Arun Jaitley a speedy recovery

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday recalled a Bollywood hit to mock Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and poke fun at a group of ‘babas’ who had called off a protest after being given a ministerial status by the state government. Only mama knows where the babas are going, Gandhi said in Hindi on Twitter, taking an unholy dig at Chouhan, who is known as mama — or uncle — in the state.

He used the lyrics of a song from the 1988 Hindi film “Qayamat se Qayamat Tak” — Papa kehtey hai (Dad said…) — to mock the ‘babas’, the five religious men who had called off their ‘Narmada scam yatra’ after being accorded the minister of state (MoS) status. “Baba used to say will do great work, will foil the Narmada scam, but now only ‘Mama’ (maternal uncle) knows what their final destination is. ‘Qayamat se Qayamat tak’ (doomsday) in Madhya Pradesh,” he tweeted, twisting the lyrics of the song.

He also attached a news item to the post which said the Chouhan government had granted a MoS status to the five seers. The seers had earlier announced that they would take out a ‘Narmada scam yatra’ to expose corruption in the river cleanliness drive. “Kudos to BJP for always finding novel ways to hide their corruption! They’ve outdone themselves by rewarding religious leaders who were campaigning against corruption in Madhya Pradesh with Minister of State status,” the Congress also said on its official Twitter handle.

The party posted a video to underline that the seers had earlier planned out a yatra against corruption.

Only mama knows where the babas are going, Gandhi said in Hindi on Twitter, taking an unholy dig at Chouhan, who is known as mama -- or uncle -- in the state.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday recalled a Bollywood hit to mock Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and poke fun at a group of ‘babas’ who had called off a protest after being given a ministerial status by the state government. Only mama knows where the babas are going, Gandhi said in Hindi on Twitter, taking an unholy dig at Chouhan, who is known as mama — or uncle — in the state. He used the lyrics of a song from the 1988 Hindi film “Qayamat se Qayamat Tak” — Papa kehtey hai (Dad said…) — to mock the ‘babas’, the five religious men who had called off their ‘Narmada scam yatra’ after being accorded the minister of state (MoS) status. “Baba used to say will do great work, will foil the Narmada scam, but now only ‘Mama’ (maternal uncle) knows what their final destination is. ‘Qayamat se Qayamat tak’ (doomsday) in Madhya Pradesh,” he tweeted, twisting the lyrics of the song. He also attached a news item to the post which said the Chouhan government had granted a MoS status to the five seers. The seers had earlier announced that they would take out a ‘Narmada scam yatra’ to expose corruption in the river cleanliness drive. “Kudos to BJP for always finding novel ways to hide their corruption! They’ve outdone themselves by rewarding religious leaders who were campaigning against corruption in Madhya Pradesh with Minister of State status,” the Congress also said on its official Twitter handle. The party posted a video to underline that the seers had earlier planned out a yatra against corruption.

Rahul Gandhi mocks religious seers given MoS status by Chouhan govt in Madhya Pradesh

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-reaches-out-to-dalit-community-says-no-one-respected-ambedkar-the-way-our-government-has-128296">Modi reaches out to Dalit community, says no one respected Ambedkar the way 'our government has'</a>

Seeking to reach out to the Dalit community, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said no regime had honoured B R Ambedkar as his government had. Modi's remarks come soon after widespread protests, some turning violent, in different parts of the country over a Supreme Court verdict putting in place safeguards to prevent misuse of a law to prevent atrocities of SCs and STs.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/blackbuck-poaching-case-verdict-on-salman-saif-tabu-expected-tomorrow-128300">Blackbuck poaching case: Verdict on Salman, Saif, Tabu expected tomorrow</a>

A Jodhpur court will pronounce its verdict in the 1998 black buck poaching case against actor Salman Khan and others on Thursday. Final arguments of the case were completed in the trial court on March 28, after which Chief Judicial Magistrate Dev Kumar Khatri had reserved the judgment.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rising-fuel-prices-rahul-calls-modi-king-of-misinformation-128292">Rising fuel prices: Rahul calls Modi 'king of misinformation'</a>

With the soaring petrol and diesel prices, Congress president Rahul Gandhi is leaving no chance to criticise PM Modi, holding him accountable for being ignorant about higher fuel prices.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-on-status-of-jk-not-a-temporary-provision-supreme-court-128245">Article 370 on </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-on-status-of-jk-not-a-temporary-provision-supreme-court-128245">status</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-on-status-of-jk-not-a-temporary-provision-supreme-court-128245"> of J&K </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-on-status-of-jk-not-a-temporary-provision-supreme-court-128245">not</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-on-status-of-jk-not-a-temporary-provision-supreme-court-128245"> a temporary provision: Supreme Court</a>

The Supreme Court said on Tuesday said the issue of Article 370 had already been settled and did not need any consideration, however, it gave the government three weeks to challenge the validity of Article 370.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/not-in-a-trade-war-with-china-says-trump-128330">'Not in a trade war with China,' says Trump</a>

President Donald Trump on Wednesday said the United States is not in a trade war with China, as both sides shake global markets with tit-for-tat actions. "We are not in a trade war with China, that war was lost many years ago by the foolish, or incompetent, people who represented the US," Trump said in a morning tweet.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Read the five big stories of the day here

Modi reaches out to Dalit community, says no one respected Ambedkar the way 'our government has' Seeking to reach out to the Dalit community, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said no regime had honoured B R Ambedkar as his government had. Modi's remarks come soon after widespread protests, some turning violent, in different parts of the country over a Supreme Court verdict putting in place safeguards to prevent misuse of a law to prevent atrocities of SCs and STs. Blackbuck poaching case: Verdict on Salman, Saif, Tabu expected tomorrow A Jodhpur court will pronounce its verdict in the 1998 black buck poaching case against actor Salman Khan and others on Thursday. Final arguments of the case were completed in the trial court on March 28, after which Chief Judicial Magistrate Dev Kumar Khatri had reserved the judgment. Rising fuel prices: Rahul calls Modi 'king of misinformation' With the soaring petrol and diesel prices, Congress president Rahul Gandhi is leaving no chance to criticise PM Modi, holding him accountable for being ignorant about higher fuel prices. Article 370 on status of J&K not a temporary provision: Supreme Court The Supreme Court said on Tuesday said the issue of Article 370 had already been settled and did not need any consideration, however, it gave the government three weeks to challenge the validity of Article 370. 'Not in a trade war with China,' says Trump President Donald Trump on Wednesday said the United States is not in a trade war with China, as both sides shake global markets with tit-for-tat actions. "We are not in a trade war with China, that war was lost many years ago by the foolish, or incompetent, people who represented the US," Trump said in a morning tweet.

News brief: Big stories of the day

With the soaring petrol and diesel prices, Congress president Rahul Gandhi is leaving no chance to criticise PM Modi, holding him accountable for being ignorant about higher fuel prices.&nbsp;

Gandhi took to Twitter and wrote: "The poor & the middle class bear the brunt of rising fuel prices. In this video, our PM is quite obviously talking about some other country," while also attaching a video.&nbsp;

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The poor & the middle class bear the brunt of rising fuel prices. In this video, our PM is quite obviously talking about some other country. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PeTrolled?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PeTrolled</a> <a href="https://t.co/J6PHC7UsJZ">pic.twitter.com/J6PHC7UsJZ</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/981465487539400709?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Petrol and diesel prices are on an uptrend amid firming global crude prices. The rates of the two fuels have been so far increased 14 times since March 18, 2018.

At current level, petrol prices are up Rs 3.98 per litre in Delhi, Rs 3.94 per litre in Kolkata, Rs 3.93 per litre in Mumbai and Rs 4.19 per litre in Chennai so far this year. Diesel rates are up Rs. 5.18 per litre, Rs 5.21 per litre, Rs 5.75 per litre and Rs 5.55 per litre respectively.

The OMCs while deciding the prices of fuel, take into consideration the performance of international crude oil, adding government’s excise duty and various state’s value added tax (VAT), however, currently the state-owned OMCs face a difficult time in regards to trimming down fuel prices as they have limited room for it, which results in consumers ending up paying higher petrol and diesel prices.&nbsp;

The reason for the hike in fuel prices are due to the surge in international crude oil prices and the reluctance of government in cutting excise duty and state’s VAT.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Finance minister Dr TM Thomas Isaac refused to cut sales tax on petroleum saying that even the smallest change tax on petroleum products will decimate the states impoverished economy.&nbsp;

Presently, the state is facing a deficit in tax revenue. Hence the state cannot afford to lose this revenue and an appropriate decision will be taken ...

Gandhi previously attacked Modi saying that when UPA was in power, the oil price was $140 per barrel and today it is half in the international market.

"When in the international market petrol price was coming down, you are paying high. In whose pocket is the money going? Your money is being looted from you and is being given to 10/12 rich people," he said.

Petrol and diesel prices are on an uptrend amid firming global crude prices. The rates of the two fuels have been so far increased 14 times since March 18, 2018

With the soaring petrol and diesel prices, Congress president Rahul Gandhi is leaving no chance to criticise PM Modi, holding him accountable for being ignorant about higher fuel prices. Gandhi took to Twitter and wrote: "The poor & the middle class bear the brunt of rising fuel prices. In this video, our PM is quite obviously talking about some other country," while also attaching a video. The poor & the middle class bear the brunt of rising fuel prices. In this video, our PM is quite obviously talking about some other country. #PeTrolled pic.twitter.com/J6PHC7UsJZ — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) April 4, 2018 × Petrol and diesel prices are on an uptrend amid firming global crude prices. The rates of the two fuels have been so far increased 14 times since March 18, 2018. At current level, petrol prices are up Rs 3.98 per litre in Delhi, Rs 3.94 per litre in Kolkata, Rs 3.93 per litre in Mumbai and Rs 4.19 per litre in Chennai so far this year. Diesel rates are up Rs. 5.18 per litre, Rs 5.21 per litre, Rs 5.75 per litre and Rs 5.55 per litre respectively. The OMCs while deciding the prices of fuel, take into consideration the performance of international crude oil, adding government’s excise duty and various state’s value added tax (VAT), however, currently the state-owned OMCs face a difficult time in regards to trimming down fuel prices as they have limited room for it, which results in consumers ending up paying higher petrol and diesel prices. The reason for the hike in fuel prices are due to the surge in international crude oil prices and the reluctance of government in cutting excise duty and state’s VAT. On Wednesday, Finance minister Dr TM Thomas Isaac refused to cut sales tax on petroleum saying that even the smallest change tax on petroleum products will decimate the states impoverished economy. Presently, the state is facing a deficit in tax revenue. Hence the state cannot afford to lose this revenue and an appropriate decision will be taken ... Gandhi previously attacked Modi saying that when UPA was in power, the oil price was $140 per barrel and today it is half in the international market. "When in the international market petrol price was coming down, you are paying high. In whose pocket is the money going? Your money is being looted from you and is being given to 10/12 rich people," he said.

Rising fuel prices: Rahul calls Modi 'king of misinformation'

Recently appointed General Secretary in-charge of Organisation by Rahul Gandhi, Ashok Gehlot has said he is not removed from the people of Rajasthan.&nbsp;

Speaking to the press today, Gehlot said he has got a&nbsp;lot of love and respect from Rajasthan and that he will continue to work for the state and its people.

"Sometimes I'm dispatched to Rajya Sabha and sometimes people say that I have been sent to Delhi. Rajasthan is not far away from Delhi. I want to say that misinformation about this should not be spread. Till my last breath, I will work for the people of Rajasthan,"&nbsp;Gehlot said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He added that juniors must work in tandem with seniors and that they must aim to outshine the work done by the party's seniors.

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As of now, Rahul Gandhi has not yet declared Sachin Pilot as the Congress' chief ministerial candidate for Rajasthan but with Gehlot moving to Delhi after Gujarat&nbsp;(he was General Secretary in charge of the state), the signal being sent is that road has been cleared for Pilot who is the organisational head of the Congress in the state.&nbsp;

Gehlot replaced longstanding Congress General Secretary Janardhan Dwivedi and has been tasked with reviving the organisation. Gehlot has suggested some changes which seem to have been approved by the Congress leadership.&nbsp;

It has been decided that booth-level committees would be formed at the earliest and a data bank of the committees be created so that the central leadership can access the backgrounds of people working at the ground level.&nbsp;

It has also been decided that special attention would be given to backward castes, women, and minorities when it comes to representation within the organisation. Special attention would also be paid to monitoring the programmes of the Congress Party and they will&nbsp;be reviewed by dedicated teams. Gehlot has also suggested that training programmes should be vigorously implemented and their schedule be properly maintained.&nbsp;

It has also been decided that 40 per cent of "existing faces" will be kept in the organisation, while "new faces"&nbsp;will be introduced in 60 per cent of posts. There were be a special focus on accountability, so that those who have worked for the party are rewarded and those who have not are removed from important positions.&nbsp;

'Rajasthan is not far away from Delhi. I want to say that misinformation about this should not be spread. Till my last breath, I will work for the people of Rajasthan,' Gehlot said

Recently appointed General Secretary in-charge of Organisation by Rahul Gandhi, Ashok Gehlot has said he is not removed from the people of Rajasthan. Speaking to the press today, Gehlot said he has got a lot of love and respect from Rajasthan and that he will continue to work for the state and its people. "Sometimes I'm dispatched to Rajya Sabha and sometimes people say that I have been sent to Delhi. Rajasthan is not far away from Delhi. I want to say that misinformation about this should not be spread. Till my last breath, I will work for the people of Rajasthan," Gehlot said. He added that juniors must work in tandem with seniors and that they must aim to outshine the work done by the party's seniors. × As of now, Rahul Gandhi has not yet declared Sachin Pilot as the Congress' chief ministerial candidate for Rajasthan but with Gehlot moving to Delhi after Gujarat (he was General Secretary in charge of the state), the signal being sent is that road has been cleared for Pilot who is the organisational head of the Congress in the state. Gehlot replaced longstanding Congress General Secretary Janardhan Dwivedi and has been tasked with reviving the organisation. Gehlot has suggested some changes which seem to have been approved by the Congress leadership. It has been decided that booth-level committees would be formed at the earliest and a data bank of the committees be created so that the central leadership can access the backgrounds of people working at the ground level. It has also been decided that special attention would be given to backward castes, women, and minorities when it comes to representation within the organisation. Special attention would also be paid to monitoring the programmes of the Congress Party and they will be reviewed by dedicated teams. Gehlot has also suggested that training programmes should be vigorously implemented and their schedule be properly maintained. It has also been decided that 40 per cent of "existing faces" will be kept in the organisation, while "new faces" will be introduced in 60 per cent of posts. There were be a special focus on accountability, so that those who have worked for the party are rewarded and those who have not are removed from important positions.

I'm never far from Rajasthan: Gehlot asserts his claim to chief ministership

Congress president on Tuesday called out Prime Minister Narendra Modi claimimg that Modi made a U-turn on his "own order" on fake news, and said one could clearly see "a loss of control and panic setting in".

He tweeted with the hashtag #BasEkAurSaal keeping in mind the Lok Sabha elections that are due in 2019.

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Sensing mounting anger on the “fake news” notification, the PM orders a U-Turn on his own order. 
 
One can clearly see a loss of control and panic setting in now. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BasEkAurSaal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BasEkAurSaal</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/981142156533555200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Modi today ordered the Information and Broadcasting Ministry to cancel its contentious guidelines on fake news after widespread criticism and outcry by journalists and opposition parties who dubbed these norms an attempt to "muzzle" the free press.

Soon after, the ministry issued a statement, saying press release regarding fake news put out by it last night "stands withdrawn."

In the release, the ministry had said: "Noticing the increasing instances of fake news in various mediums including print and electronic media, the Government has amended the Guidelines for Accreditation of Journalists. Now on receiving any complaints of such instances of fake news, the same would get referred to the Press Council of India (PCI) if it pertains to print media & to News Broadcasters Association (NBA) if it relates to electronic media, for determination of the news item being fake or not."

“Determination is expected to be completed within 15 days by these regulating agencies. Once the complaint is registered for determination of fake news, the correspondent or journalist whoever created or propagated the fake news will, if accredited, have the accreditation suspended till such time the determination regarding the fake news is made by the regulating agencies mentioned above," the statement further mentioned.

Earlier in the day while addressing a public meeting in Karnataka, Rahul had also hit out at the Prime Minister for "not uttering a word" on the alleged atrocities on Dalits and tribals and "dilution" of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Rahul is currently in the fifth leg of his tour of the poll-bound Karnataka.&nbsp;

Modi today ordered the Information and Broadcasting Ministry to cancel its contentious guidelines on fake news after widespread criticism and outcry by journalists and opposition parties who dubbed these norms an attempt to 'muzzle' the free press

Congress president on Tuesday called out Prime Minister Narendra Modi claimimg that Modi made a U-turn on his "own order" on fake news, and said one could clearly see "a loss of control and panic setting in". He tweeted with the hashtag #BasEkAurSaal keeping in mind the Lok Sabha elections that are due in 2019. Sensing mounting anger on the “fake news” notification, the PM orders a U-Turn on his own order. One can clearly see a loss of control and panic setting in now. #BasEkAurSaal — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) April 3, 2018 × Modi today ordered the Information and Broadcasting Ministry to cancel its contentious guidelines on fake news after widespread criticism and outcry by journalists and opposition parties who dubbed these norms an attempt to "muzzle" the free press. Soon after, the ministry issued a statement, saying press release regarding fake news put out by it last night "stands withdrawn." In the release, the ministry had said: "Noticing the increasing instances of fake news in various mediums including print and electronic media, the Government has amended the Guidelines for Accreditation of Journalists. Now on receiving any complaints of such instances of fake news, the same would get referred to the Press Council of India (PCI) if it pertains to print media & to News Broadcasters Association (NBA) if it relates to electronic media, for determination of the news item being fake or not." “Determination is expected to be completed within 15 days by these regulating agencies. Once the complaint is registered for determination of fake news, the correspondent or journalist whoever created or propagated the fake news will, if accredited, have the accreditation suspended till such time the determination regarding the fake news is made by the regulating agencies mentioned above," the statement further mentioned. Earlier in the day while addressing a public meeting in Karnataka, Rahul had also hit out at the Prime Minister for "not uttering a word" on the alleged atrocities on Dalits and tribals and "dilution" of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Rahul is currently in the fifth leg of his tour of the poll-bound Karnataka.

Loss of control and panic setting in: Rahul Gandhi on rollback of fake news crackdown

Union Minister for Food Processing Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Saturday attacked the Congress President Rahul Gandhi over his statement that his party's foundation was based on compassion and mutual brotherhood.

Taking aim at the Congress President, the Union Minister said that he was fooling people by talking about "love" as the country saw the "brotherhood" of the Congress party during the 1984 riots when thousands of innocent Sikhs were massacred.

According to official records, about 2,800 Sikhs were killed across India, including 2,100 in Delhi, during the pogrom that broke out after the then prime minister, Indira Gandhi, was assassinated by her Sikh bodyguards.

Badal took to Twitter to say, "The country saw the ‘love’ and ‘brotherhood’ of the Congress in October and November 1984 when thousands of innocent Sikhs were massacred. Congress talking about ‘compassion’ and ‘mutual brotherhood’…looks like someone is celebrating April Fools Day already!"

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The country saw the ‘love’ and ‘brotherhood’ of the Congress in October and November 1984 when thousands of innocent Sikhs were massacred. 
 
Congress talking about ‘करुणा’ and ‘आपसी भाईचारा’…looks like someone is celebrating April Fools Day already! <a href="https://t.co/tSYLcvb9nJ">https://t.co/tSYLcvb9nJ</a>
— Harsimrat Kaur Badal (@HarsimratBadal_) <a href="https://twitter.com/HarsimratBadal_/status/980057767171055618?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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This comes just hours after Rahul Gandhi weighed in on the ongoing tension in Asansol.

In his tweet, he claimed that the foundation of the Congress party was based on compassion and mutual brotherhood. He also accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) of spreading hatred.

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अपने बेटों को नफरत और सम्प्रदायिकता के कारण खोने के बाद यशपाल सक्सेना और इमाम रशीदी के संदेश ये दिखाते हैं कि हिन्दुस्तान में हमेशा प्यार नफरत को हराएगा। 
 
कांग्रेस की नींव भी करुणा और आपसी भाईचारे पर टिकी है। हम नफरत फैलाने वाली BJP/RSS की विचारधारा को जीतने नहीं देंगे। <a href="https://t.co/5smEqBm8gK">pic.twitter.com/5smEqBm8gK</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/980039094393810944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Ram Navami celebrations on March 25 had turned sour after clashes erupted in various parts of Bengal leaving three dead and several injured.

Following the continued violence, Section 144 was imposed in Asansol, on March 28.&nbsp;

According to official records, about 2,800 Sikhs were killed across India, including 2,100 in Delhi, during the pogrom that broke out after the then prime minister, Indira Gandhi, was assassinated by her Sikh bodyguards.

Union Minister for Food Processing Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Saturday attacked the Congress President Rahul Gandhi over his statement that his party's foundation was based on compassion and mutual brotherhood. Taking aim at the Congress President, the Union Minister said that he was fooling people by talking about "love" as the country saw the "brotherhood" of the Congress party during the 1984 riots when thousands of innocent Sikhs were massacred. According to official records, about 2,800 Sikhs were killed across India, including 2,100 in Delhi, during the pogrom that broke out after the then prime minister, Indira Gandhi, was assassinated by her Sikh bodyguards. Badal took to Twitter to say, "The country saw the ‘love’ and ‘brotherhood’ of the Congress in October and November 1984 when thousands of innocent Sikhs were massacred. Congress talking about ‘compassion’ and ‘mutual brotherhood’…looks like someone is celebrating April Fools Day already!" The country saw the ‘love’ and ‘brotherhood’ of the Congress in October and November 1984 when thousands of innocent Sikhs were massacred. Congress talking about ‘करुणा’ and ‘आपसी भाईचारा’…looks like someone is celebrating April Fools Day already! https://t.co/tSYLcvb9nJ — Harsimrat Kaur Badal (@HarsimratBadal_) March 31, 2018 × This comes just hours after Rahul Gandhi weighed in on the ongoing tension in Asansol. In his tweet, he claimed that the foundation of the Congress party was based on compassion and mutual brotherhood. He also accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) of spreading hatred. अपने बेटों को नफरत और सम्प्रदायिकता के कारण खोने के बाद यशपाल सक्सेना और इमाम रशीदी के संदेश ये दिखाते हैं कि हिन्दुस्तान में हमेशा प्यार नफरत को हराएगा। कांग्रेस की नींव भी करुणा और आपसी भाईचारे पर टिकी है। हम नफरत फैलाने वाली BJP/RSS की विचारधारा को जीतने नहीं देंगे। pic.twitter.com/5smEqBm8gK — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) March 31, 2018 × The Ram Navami celebrations on March 25 had turned sour after clashes erupted in various parts of Bengal leaving three dead and several injured. Following the continued violence, Section 144 was imposed in Asansol, on March 28.

Where was Cong's brotherhood during 1984 riots? asks Harsimrat Badal

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Friday kept up his attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the CBSE leaks, saying he would now write a sequel to his book "Exam Warriors" to teach students stress relief after their lives were "destroyed" due to paper leaks.

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Mocking the prime minister on Twitter, Gandhi attached a photograph of Modi playing with children.

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PM wrote Exam Warriors, a book to teach students stress relief during exams. 
 
Next up: Exam Warriors 2, a book to teach students & parents stress relief, once their lives are destroyed due to leaked exam papers. <a href="https://t.co/YmSiY0w46b">pic.twitter.com/YmSiY0w46b</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/979622361099104257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"PM wrote Exam Warriors, a book to teach students stress relief during exams.

"Next up: Exam Warriors 2, a book to teach students and parents stress relief, once their lives are destroyed due to leaked exam papers," he tweeted.

The prime minister had also talked about fighting exam stress in his "Mann ki Baat" programme ahead of the board exams.

The Congress has been attacking the prime minister on the CBSE announcing a retest of the Class 10 mathematics and Class 12 economics papers after reports that they were leaked.

It has demanded the sacking of HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar and CBSE chairperson Anita Karwal and a judicial probe by a high court judge.

In another tweet on the occasion of Good Friday, Gandhi hoped peace and love fills everyone's hearts and homes.

"On this Good Friday, let us forgive those who have hurt us make peace with those with whom we are at war let peace and love fill our hearts and our homes," he said.

Yesterday, Gandhi had targeted Modi over the series of leaks, including CBSE board papers, to say that the "chowkidar" was weak.

Mocking the prime minister Modi on Twitter, Gandhi attached a photograph of Modi playing with children

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Friday kept up his attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the CBSE leaks, saying he would now write a sequel to his book "Exam Warriors" to teach students stress relief after their lives were "destroyed" due to paper leaks. × Mocking the prime minister on Twitter, Gandhi attached a photograph of Modi playing with children. PM wrote Exam Warriors, a book to teach students stress relief during exams. Next up: Exam Warriors 2, a book to teach students & parents stress relief, once their lives are destroyed due to leaked exam papers. pic.twitter.com/YmSiY0w46b — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) March 30, 2018 × "PM wrote Exam Warriors, a book to teach students stress relief during exams. "Next up: Exam Warriors 2, a book to teach students and parents stress relief, once their lives are destroyed due to leaked exam papers," he tweeted. The prime minister had also talked about fighting exam stress in his "Mann ki Baat" programme ahead of the board exams. The Congress has been attacking the prime minister on the CBSE announcing a retest of the Class 10 mathematics and Class 12 economics papers after reports that they were leaked. It has demanded the sacking of HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar and CBSE chairperson Anita Karwal and a judicial probe by a high court judge. In another tweet on the occasion of Good Friday, Gandhi hoped peace and love fills everyone's hearts and homes. "On this Good Friday, let us forgive those who have hurt us make peace with those with whom we are at war let peace and love fill our hearts and our homes," he said. Yesterday, Gandhi had targeted Modi over the series of leaks, including CBSE board papers, to say that the "chowkidar" was weak.

Next up from PM, book on stress relief after lives destroyed by paper leaks: Rahul Gandhi

Congress president Rahul Gandhi today appointed Ashok Gehlot as AICC general secretary in-charge of organisation and training, replacing Janardan Dwivedi who will be stepping down.

Gehlot was earlier general secretary in-charge of party affairs in Gujarat and has been replaced by Rajeev Satav.

"Congress President Rahul Gandhi has designated Ashok Gehlot as general secretary in-charge, organisation and training, in place of Janardan Dwivedi, general secretary AICC," Dwivedi said in a statement.

The statement further states that a note from the Congress president which said, "The party appreciates the hard work and contribution of Janardan Dwivedi, who will be stepping down from his responsibility as AICC general secretary."

Dwivedi has held the post for a few decades now.

Gehlot was earlier general secretary in-charge of party affairs in Gujarat

Congress president Rahul Gandhi today appointed Ashok Gehlot as AICC general secretary in-charge of organisation and training, replacing Janardan Dwivedi who will be stepping down. Gehlot was earlier general secretary in-charge of party affairs in Gujarat and has been replaced by Rajeev Satav. "Congress President Rahul Gandhi has designated Ashok Gehlot as general secretary in-charge, organisation and training, in place of Janardan Dwivedi, general secretary AICC," Dwivedi said in a statement. The statement further states that a note from the Congress president which said, "The party appreciates the hard work and contribution of Janardan Dwivedi, who will be stepping down from his responsibility as AICC general secretary." Dwivedi has held the post for a few decades now.

Ashok Gehlot appointed AICC general secretary

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