Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said that the BJP never made promises of transferring Rs 15 lakhs into people's bank accounts during the campaign for Lok Sabha election in 2014.

"Never said that Rs 15 lakh will come (to accounts of people). This was never said. (Bilkul nahi kaha tha ki Rs 15 lakh aenge. Ye kabhi nahi kaha tha). We had said that we will take action (karyawahi) against black money. Action is being taken against black money. It was our government which made SIT on the topic of black money," Rajnath told ANI in an exclusive interview.

His statement comes at a time when opposition parties have been criticising the BJP for having made “false promises" to woo the people of India ahead of 2014 general elections and now repeating it in 2019.

Bringing black money stashed abroad was one of the key issues for 2014 elections and the BJP had promised to crack down on black money parked in foreign banks. In this year’s manifesto, there is a mention of cracking down on parallel economy but it doesn’t occupy pride of place in speeches by political leaders.

The opposition, especially the Congress party, has been quick to point out that the BJP has not delivered on ‘bringing back home illegal wealth stashed abroad’ as was promised.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said that the BJP never made promises of transferring Rs 15 lakhs into people's bank accounts during the campaign for Lok Sabha election in 2014.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said that the BJP never made promises of transferring Rs 15 lakhs into people's bank accounts during the campaign for Lok Sabha election in 2014. "Never said that Rs 15 lakh will come (to accounts of people). This was never said. (Bilkul nahi kaha tha ki Rs 15 lakh aenge. Ye kabhi nahi kaha tha). We had said that we will take action (karyawahi) against black money. Action is being taken against black money. It was our government which made SIT on the topic of black money," Rajnath told ANI in an exclusive interview. His statement comes at a time when opposition parties have been criticising the BJP for having made “false promises" to woo the people of India ahead of 2014 general elections and now repeating it in 2019. Bringing black money stashed abroad was one of the key issues for 2014 elections and the BJP had promised to crack down on black money parked in foreign banks. In this year’s manifesto, there is a mention of cracking down on parallel economy but it doesn’t occupy pride of place in speeches by political leaders. The opposition, especially the Congress party, has been quick to point out that the BJP has not delivered on ‘bringing back home illegal wealth stashed abroad’ as was promised.

Never said that Rs 15 lakh will come to people's accounts: Rajnath Singh

After the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-unveils-election-manifesto-zero-tolerance-on-terrorism-full-commitment-towards-uniform-civil-code-208715">BJP presented its election manifesto</a> today, PM Modi speaking on the occasion on Monday said the party has based its vision document on "multi-layered development".

"We have set <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-manifesto-not-prepared-with-tukde-tukde-mindset-but-with-strong-nationalist-vision-says-jaitley-while-unveiling-of-party-manifesto-208720">75 well-defined resolutions</a> in our manifesto that we can fulfil in a time-bound manner, he said, adding, "we are moving forward with 'one mission, one rection'."

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"Nationalism is our inspiration, the Antoydaya mission is our aim and good governance is our mantra," he said.&nbsp;"BJP's 'Sankalp Patra' aims to make India a developed nation by 2047, on completion of 100 years of Independence," PM Modi added.

"This is the reason why we have made multi-layered development our main thrust in the manifesto."

PM Modi said in order to develop India, development had to be made into a "mass movement". "A successful result of that is "swacchta" (cleanliness) today "swachhta"&nbsp;is a mass movement."

BJP's "Sankalp Patra"&nbsp;addresses expectations and aspirations of our&nbsp;country and&nbsp;contains 'Jan ki Mann ki Baat', PM Modi said.

"We will form separate Jal Shakti Ministry," PM Modi revealed as the BJP released its manifesto.&nbsp;

"We first addressed needs of people, now we will fulfil their aspirations," PM Modi added.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

After the BJP presented its election manifesto today, PM Modi speaking on the occasion on Monday said the party has based its vision document on "multi-layered development".

After the BJP presented its election manifesto today, PM Modi speaking on the occasion on Monday said the party has based its vision document on "multi-layered development". "We have set 75 well-defined resolutions in our manifesto that we can fulfil in a time-bound manner, he said, adding, "we are moving forward with 'one mission, one rection'." #WATCH live from Delhi: BJP releases their manifesto for #LokSabhaElections2019 https://t.co/x4t3F7srhI — ANI (@ANI) April 8, 2019 × "Nationalism is our inspiration, the Antoydaya mission is our aim and good governance is our mantra," he said. "BJP's 'Sankalp Patra' aims to make India a developed nation by 2047, on completion of 100 years of Independence," PM Modi added. "This is the reason why we have made multi-layered development our main thrust in the manifesto." PM Modi said in order to develop India, development had to be made into a "mass movement". "A successful result of that is "swacchta" (cleanliness) today "swachhta" is a mass movement." BJP's "Sankalp Patra" addresses expectations and aspirations of our country and contains 'Jan ki Mann ki Baat', PM Modi said. "We will form separate Jal Shakti Ministry," PM Modi revealed as the BJP released its manifesto. "We first addressed needs of people, now we will fulfil their aspirations," PM Modi added.

Nationalism our inspiration, good governance our mantra, says PM Modi as BJP unveils election manifesto

India Election Watch: Exclusive interview with Rajnath Singh

WION: Watch Exclusive interview of Home Minister Rajnath Singh

WION Exclusive: Interview with Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh

As the Lok Sabha polls draw closer, WION's Editor-in-chief Sudhir Chaudhary spoke to Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on a range of issues - from Balakot air strikes to the Bharatiya Janata Party's poll preparedness ahead of the general elections.&nbsp;

WION: You were the party president in the last election. You are the Home Minister in this election. At that time, your decision proved as a turning point. You declared Modi ji a candidate for the post of Prime Minister. What is the difference between the two elections?

Rajnath Singh: This time the BJP will win more seats as compared to 2014 because for the first time people got to know Modi as a CM. Now people know him as a Prime Minister. Narendra Bhai has increased the trust of people. And people want the country's leadership to be in strong hands.

WION: Modi wave was there last time. This time most people are saying that the wave is not there.

Rajnath Singh: Last time everyone was not aware. But many people had the information ... so people gave us the opportunity. Now after 5 years Modi ji fulfilled the expectations of the people, so this time our seats will increase.

WION: Can you say that your achievement was such that the voters will not look at any other side this time?&nbsp;

Rajnath Singh: Economically, India registered the fastest growth in 5 years. The growth rate of GDP increased. Bank accounts for the poor were opened by the Prime Minister's Jandhana Yojana. The poor were insured. Electricity connections, water connections and gas are being given in every house.

WION: Political pundits say that there is no vote in the name of development in the country but on other issues, your comments?&nbsp;

Rajnath Singh: &nbsp;I do not agree with this. People don't vote on miracles or on charisma. People see which government worries about public interest. Which government is about to work and can honour the dignity of the country.

WION: Do you think Balakot air strikes will prove as a turning point?

Rajnath Singh: I would not want to call the airstrikes as a turning point in terms of the election, however, it has instilled trust. It shows that our Prime Minister is decisive, the one who takes decisions and isn't afraid. People can see that the country is in safe hands, people have come about to trust.&nbsp;

WION: Pakistan has said that the information given in the dossier to them is not complete. Pakistan is also seeking evidence, the people of our own country, the opposition demands evidence.

Rajnath Singh: It is a matter of great irony that Pakistan is also seeking evidence and even those who are living here are also demanding evidence. I understand that in this regard the public will decide what to do.

I would like to say that no matter how many dossiers we give to Pakistan or all the evidence, they always behave like this. I would like to say that India is not weak. Pakistan will have to change its ways and crack down on terrorism and terror emanating from its soil, if it is not able to do the same on its own, ask us, India will help achieve the same.&nbsp;

WION: Did you ever think that after Balakot we should assume that now it is the end of this story or anything else can happen after this?

Rajnath Singh: I would like to tell you that India has never been an expansionist. India has never invaded any country in the world. But if you hurt the self-esteem, then India will not sit quietly. India responds.

WION: You would have first-hand information on the number of those killed in Balakot. Do we have any evidence, if yes, then when are we going to go public with it?&nbsp;

Rajnath Singh: There is no reason to doubt the bravery and valour of our Army. The operation was done on the basis of credible intelligence input, there is no doubt about this operation. If it wasn't a successful strike, then Pakistan would have not been bothered but Pakistan is getting disturbed because of this strike, we also have people of some political parties, they are having trouble too.

WION: But did we try to find out how much damage has happened? This is indeed a huge achievement

Rajnath Singh: Let's see, generally no country can tell what was the damage, how many people killed, no country in the world. Everything will be exposed on time, and I want to say that if nothing had happened then why was Pakistan so disturbed?

WION: But you must have calculated your risk that it is very risky to enter a country and attack there. Pakistan, after all, is also nuclear-armed.

Rajnath Singh: See, if it comes on self-esteem, then the person does not even calculate the risk. It is not necessary to evaluate what decision was take. Whatever strikes took place, it was an outcome of well-intentioned and calculated thought. There was no other option.&nbsp;

As the Lok Sabha polls draw closer, WION's Editor-in-chief Sudhir Chaudhary spoke to Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on a range of issues - from Balakot air strikes to the Bharatiya Janata Party's poll preparedness ahead of the general elections.

As the Lok Sabha polls draw closer, WION's Editor-in-chief Sudhir Chaudhary spoke to Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on a range of issues - from Balakot air strikes to the Bharatiya Janata Party's poll preparedness ahead of the general elections. WION: You were the party president in the last election. You are the Home Minister in this election. At that time, your decision proved as a turning point. You declared Modi ji a candidate for the post of Prime Minister. What is the difference between the two elections? Rajnath Singh: This time the BJP will win more seats as compared to 2014 because for the first time people got to know Modi as a CM. Now people know him as a Prime Minister. Narendra Bhai has increased the trust of people. And people want the country's leadership to be in strong hands. WION: Modi wave was there last time. This time most people are saying that the wave is not there. Rajnath Singh: Last time everyone was not aware. But many people had the information ... so people gave us the opportunity. Now after 5 years Modi ji fulfilled the expectations of the people, so this time our seats will increase. WION: Can you say that your achievement was such that the voters will not look at any other side this time? Rajnath Singh: Economically, India registered the fastest growth in 5 years. The growth rate of GDP increased. Bank accounts for the poor were opened by the Prime Minister's Jandhana Yojana. The poor were insured. Electricity connections, water connections and gas are being given in every house. WION: Political pundits say that there is no vote in the name of development in the country but on other issues, your comments? Rajnath Singh: I do not agree with this. People don't vote on miracles or on charisma. People see which government worries about public interest. Which government is about to work and can honour the dignity of the country. WION: Do you think Balakot air strikes will prove as a turning point? Rajnath Singh: I would not want to call the airstrikes as a turning point in terms of the election, however, it has instilled trust. It shows that our Prime Minister is decisive, the one who takes decisions and isn't afraid. People can see that the country is in safe hands, people have come about to trust. WION: Pakistan has said that the information given in the dossier to them is not complete. Pakistan is also seeking evidence, the people of our own country, the opposition demands evidence. Rajnath Singh: It is a matter of great irony that Pakistan is also seeking evidence and even those who are living here are also demanding evidence. I understand that in this regard the public will decide what to do. I would like to say that no matter how many dossiers we give to Pakistan or all the evidence, they always behave like this. I would like to say that India is not weak. Pakistan will have to change its ways and crack down on terrorism and terror emanating from its soil, if it is not able to do the same on its own, ask us, India will help achieve the same. WION: Did you ever think that after Balakot we should assume that now it is the end of this story or anything else can happen after this? Rajnath Singh: I would like to tell you that India has never been an expansionist. India has never invaded any country in the world. But if you hurt the self-esteem, then India will not sit quietly. India responds. WION: You would have first-hand information on the number of those killed in Balakot. Do we have any evidence, if yes, then when are we going to go public with it? Rajnath Singh: There is no reason to doubt the bravery and valour of our Army. The operation was done on the basis of credible intelligence input, there is no doubt about this operation. If it wasn't a successful strike, then Pakistan would have not been bothered but Pakistan is getting disturbed because of this strike, we also have people of some political parties, they are having trouble too. WION: But did we try to find out how much damage has happened? This is indeed a huge achievement Rajnath Singh: Let's see, generally no country can tell what was the damage, how many people killed, no country in the world. Everything will be exposed on time, and I want to say that if nothing had happened then why was Pakistan so disturbed? WION: But you must have calculated your risk that it is very risky to enter a country and attack there. Pakistan, after all, is also nuclear-armed. Rajnath Singh: See, if it comes on self-esteem, then the person does not even calculate the risk. It is not necessary to evaluate what decision was take. Whatever strikes took place, it was an outcome of well-intentioned and calculated thought. There was no other option.

Balakot air strikes instilled faith in people, showed nation is in safe hands: Rajnath Singh to WION

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday stated that he is pretty sure of another term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Singh, in middle of his statement, got caught in a poetic frenzy and said, "Chowkidar is not a chor, he is pure and another term for him is sure".&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi changed his Twitter handle to '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-changes-name-on-twitter-to-chowkidar-narendra-modi-amit-shah-piyush-goyal-follow-suit-203811">Chowkidar' Narendra Modi</a>. Scores of BJP bigwigs, including party president Amit Shah and Railway Minister Piyush Goyal, followed suit.&nbsp;

"Your Chowkidar is standing firm &amp; serving the nation," Modi had tweeted on.&nbsp;

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Union Minister &amp; BJP leader Rajnath Singh at a public rally in Delhi: Chowkidar chorr nahi, Chowkidar pure hai. Chowkidar ka dobara PM banana sure hai, desh ki samasyaon ka woh hi cure hai. <a href="https://t.co/5hcvCV6M96">pic.twitter.com/5hcvCV6M96</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1110433156560310274?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"But, I am not alone," he said. "Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar. Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a Chowkidar."&nbsp;

"Today, every Indian is saying-#MainBhiChowkidar," he added.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister had first referred to himself as the chowkidar (watchman) of the nation in the run-up to the 2014 general elections. "Na khaoonga, na khaane doonga (I will not be corrupt, I will not let others be corrupt)," he had said then. &nbsp;

On March 16, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged his supporters to take the 'main bhai chowkidar' (I too am watchman) pledge, saying he is not alone in the fight against graft and social evils.

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Your Chowkidar is standing firm &amp; serving the nation. 
 
But, I am not alone. 
 
Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar. 
 
Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a Chowkidar. 
 
Today, every Indian is saying-<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MainBhiChowkidar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MainBhiChowkidar</a>
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1106759555315314689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Your Chowkidar is standing firm and serving the nation. But, I am not alone. Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar. Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a Chowkidar. Today, every Indian is saying-#MainBhiChowkidar," he wrote on Twitter.

He also posted a three-minute long video to drive home his message.

PM Modi has often described himself as a "chowkidar" by the opposition.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi has been repeatedly hurling the "chowkidar chor hai" (watchman is the thief) jibe at the Prime Minister to claim irregularities and favouritism in the Rafale fighter jet deal, a charge the BJP-led government has rejected.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday stated that he is pretty sure of another term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Singh, in middle of his statement, got caught in a poetic frenzy and said, "Chowkidar is not a chor, he is pure and another term for him is sure".

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday stated that he is pretty sure of another term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Singh, in middle of his statement, got caught in a poetic frenzy and said, "Chowkidar is not a chor, he is pure and another term for him is sure". Earlier this month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi changed his Twitter handle to 'Chowkidar' Narendra Modi. Scores of BJP bigwigs, including party president Amit Shah and Railway Minister Piyush Goyal, followed suit. "Your Chowkidar is standing firm & serving the nation," Modi had tweeted on. Union Minister & BJP leader Rajnath Singh at a public rally in Delhi: Chowkidar chorr nahi, Chowkidar pure hai. Chowkidar ka dobara PM banana sure hai, desh ki samasyaon ka woh hi cure hai. pic.twitter.com/5hcvCV6M96 — ANI (@ANI) March 26, 2019 × "But, I am not alone," he said. "Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar. Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a Chowkidar." "Today, every Indian is saying-#MainBhiChowkidar," he added. The Prime Minister had first referred to himself as the chowkidar (watchman) of the nation in the run-up to the 2014 general elections. "Na khaoonga, na khaane doonga (I will not be corrupt, I will not let others be corrupt)," he had said then. On March 16, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged his supporters to take the 'main bhai chowkidar' (I too am watchman) pledge, saying he is not alone in the fight against graft and social evils. Your Chowkidar is standing firm & serving the nation. But, I am not alone. Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar. Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a Chowkidar. Today, every Indian is saying-#MainBhiChowkidar — Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 16, 2019 × "Your Chowkidar is standing firm and serving the nation. But, I am not alone. Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar. Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a Chowkidar. Today, every Indian is saying-#MainBhiChowkidar," he wrote on Twitter. He also posted a three-minute long video to drive home his message. PM Modi has often described himself as a "chowkidar" by the opposition. Congress president Rahul Gandhi has been repeatedly hurling the "chowkidar chor hai" (watchman is the thief) jibe at the Prime Minister to claim irregularities and favouritism in the Rafale fighter jet deal, a charge the BJP-led government has rejected.

Chowkidar is pure, another term for him is sure: Rajnath Singh goes poetic on Modi

Condolences began pouring in from all over India the moment after the news of sad demise of Goa Chief Minister and former Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar.

The death was announced by President of India from his Twitter handle.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called him an unparalleled leader in his tweet.

''Shri Manohar Parrikar was an unparalleled leader. A true patriot and exceptional administrator, he was admired by all. His impeccable service to the nation will be remembered by generations. Deeply saddened by his demise. Condolences to his family and supporters,'' Modi tweeted.

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Shri Manohar Parrikar was an unparalleled leader. 
 
A true patriot and exceptional administrator, he was admired by all. His impeccable service to the nation will be remembered by generations. 
 
Deeply saddened by his demise. Condolences to his family and supporters. 
 
Om Shanti. <a href="https://t.co/uahXme3ifp">pic.twitter.com/uahXme3ifp</a>
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1107302872616706048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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''Saddened to know about the demise of senior BJP leader Shri Manohar Parrikar ji, Chief Minister of Goa. He always led by example in his public life &amp; was loved by masses. He will be missed by everyone of us. May God render peace to the departed soul. Om Shanti ॐ शान्ति,'' Finance Minister Arun Jaitley tweeted.

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Saddened to know about the demise of senior BJP leader Shri Manohar Parrikar ji, Chief Minister of Goa. He always led by example in his public life &amp; was loved by masses. He will be missed by everyone of us. May God render peace to the departed soul. Om Shanti ॐ शान्ति
— Chowkidar Arun Jaitley (@arunjaitley) <a href="https://twitter.com/arunjaitley/status/1107301033028608000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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''Entire BJP stands firmly with Parrikar ji’s family. I along with millions of BJP karyakartas and importantly the people of Goa, who were his family, express my deepest condolences. May God give the bereaved family strength to withstand this tragic loss. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti,'' BJP President Amit Shah tweeted.

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Entire BJP stands firmly with Parrikar ji’s family. I along with millions of BJP karyakartas and importantly the people of Goa, who were his family, express my deepest condolences. May God give the bereaved family strength to withstand this tragic loss. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti. <a href="https://t.co/HWFA4gtSnX">pic.twitter.com/HWFA4gtSnX</a>
— Chowkidar Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1107294919046164480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Shri Manohar Parrikar is no more. A sincere, honest and sensitive political activist. Was simple and down to earth, I learnt a lot from Shri Parrikar. As Raksha Mantri his contribution to making the armed forces a modernised, lean and mean fighting machine will remain unparalleled," tweeted Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

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Shri Manohar Parrikar is no more. A sincere, honest &amp; sensitive political activist. Was simple and down to earth, I learnt a lot from Shri.Parrikar. As Raksha Mantri his contribution to making the armed forces a modernised, lean &amp; mean fighting machine will remain unparalleled.
— Chowkidar Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) <a href="https://twitter.com/nsitharaman/status/1107292744609923072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Home Minister Rajnath Singh also recalled the honesty and integrity of the late Goa Chief Minister while expressing his condolence."Deeply saddened and pained by the demise of my dear friend and Chief Minister of Goa, Shri Manohar Parrikar. He was known for his honesty, integrity and simplicity. He served the nation and the state of Goa with great diligence. My heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family," he said.

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Deeply saddened and pained by the demise of my dear friend &amp; Chief Minister of Goa, Shri Manohar Parrikar. He was known for his honesty, integrity and simplicity. He served the nation and the state of Goa with great diligence. My heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family.
— Chowkidar Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1107294795968536577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Congress president Rahul Gandhi also called him one of Goa`s favourite sons and wrote, "I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Goa CM, Shri Manohar Parrikar Ji, who bravely battled a debilitating illness for over a year. Respected and admired across party lines, he was one of Goa`s favourite sons. My condolences to his family in this time of grief."

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I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Goa CM, Shri Manohar Parrikar Ji, who bravely battled a debilitating illness for over a year. 
 
Respected and admired across party lines, he was one of Goa’s favourite sons. 
 
My condolences to his family in this time of grief.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1107292522471133184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Congress general secretary, Priyanka Gandhi recalled her only meet with Parrikar while expressing her condolence."My condolences to the bereaved family of Shri Manohar Parrikar. I met him only once when he graciously visited my mother at the hospital two years ago. May his soul rest in peace," she said.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also expressed grief over the death of Goa Chief Minister and said, "Saddened at the passing away of Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar ji. He patiently endured his illness. Condolences to his family and his admirers."Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, 63, breathed his last on Sunday evening in Goa.

Parrikar, who was suffering from a pancreatic ailment, had been in and out of hospitals in Goa, Mumbai, Delhi and New York since February last year.&nbsp;

Condolences began pouring in from all over India the moment after the news of sad demise of Goa Chief Minister and former Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar. The death was announced by President of India from his Twitter handle.

Condolences began pouring in from all over India the moment after the news of sad demise of Goa Chief Minister and former Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar. The death was announced by President of India from his Twitter handle. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called him an unparalleled leader in his tweet. ''Shri Manohar Parrikar was an unparalleled leader. A true patriot and exceptional administrator, he was admired by all. His impeccable service to the nation will be remembered by generations. Deeply saddened by his demise. Condolences to his family and supporters,'' Modi tweeted. Shri Manohar Parrikar was an unparalleled leader. A true patriot and exceptional administrator, he was admired by all. His impeccable service to the nation will be remembered by generations. Deeply saddened by his demise. Condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti. pic.twitter.com/uahXme3ifp — Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 17, 2019 × ''Saddened to know about the demise of senior BJP leader Shri Manohar Parrikar ji, Chief Minister of Goa. He always led by example in his public life & was loved by masses. He will be missed by everyone of us. May God render peace to the departed soul. Om Shanti ॐ शान्ति,'' Finance Minister Arun Jaitley tweeted. Saddened to know about the demise of senior BJP leader Shri Manohar Parrikar ji, Chief Minister of Goa. He always led by example in his public life & was loved by masses. He will be missed by everyone of us. May God render peace to the departed soul. Om Shanti ॐ शान्ति — Chowkidar Arun Jaitley (@arunjaitley) March 17, 2019 × ''Entire BJP stands firmly with Parrikar ji’s family. I along with millions of BJP karyakartas and importantly the people of Goa, who were his family, express my deepest condolences. May God give the bereaved family strength to withstand this tragic loss. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti,'' BJP President Amit Shah tweeted. Entire BJP stands firmly with Parrikar ji’s family. I along with millions of BJP karyakartas and importantly the people of Goa, who were his family, express my deepest condolences. May God give the bereaved family strength to withstand this tragic loss. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti. pic.twitter.com/HWFA4gtSnX — Chowkidar Amit Shah (@AmitShah) March 17, 2019 × "Shri Manohar Parrikar is no more. A sincere, honest and sensitive political activist. Was simple and down to earth, I learnt a lot from Shri Parrikar. As Raksha Mantri his contribution to making the armed forces a modernised, lean and mean fighting machine will remain unparalleled," tweeted Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Shri Manohar Parrikar is no more. A sincere, honest & sensitive political activist. Was simple and down to earth, I learnt a lot from Shri.Parrikar. As Raksha Mantri his contribution to making the armed forces a modernised, lean & mean fighting machine will remain unparalleled. — Chowkidar Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) March 17, 2019 × Home Minister Rajnath Singh also recalled the honesty and integrity of the late Goa Chief Minister while expressing his condolence."Deeply saddened and pained by the demise of my dear friend and Chief Minister of Goa, Shri Manohar Parrikar. He was known for his honesty, integrity and simplicity. He served the nation and the state of Goa with great diligence. My heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family," he said. Deeply saddened and pained by the demise of my dear friend & Chief Minister of Goa, Shri Manohar Parrikar. He was known for his honesty, integrity and simplicity. He served the nation and the state of Goa with great diligence. My heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family. — Chowkidar Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) March 17, 2019 × Congress president Rahul Gandhi also called him one of Goa`s favourite sons and wrote, "I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Goa CM, Shri Manohar Parrikar Ji, who bravely battled a debilitating illness for over a year. Respected and admired across party lines, he was one of Goa`s favourite sons. My condolences to his family in this time of grief." I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Goa CM, Shri Manohar Parrikar Ji, who bravely battled a debilitating illness for over a year. Respected and admired across party lines, he was one of Goa’s favourite sons. My condolences to his family in this time of grief. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) March 17, 2019 × Congress general secretary, Priyanka Gandhi recalled her only meet with Parrikar while expressing her condolence."My condolences to the bereaved family of Shri Manohar Parrikar. I met him only once when he graciously visited my mother at the hospital two years ago. May his soul rest in peace," she said. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also expressed grief over the death of Goa Chief Minister and said, "Saddened at the passing away of Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar ji. He patiently endured his illness. Condolences to his family and his admirers."Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, 63, breathed his last on Sunday evening in Goa. Parrikar, who was suffering from a pancreatic ailment, had been in and out of hospitals in Goa, Mumbai, Delhi and New York since February last year.

Condolences pour in after the sad demise of Goa CM Manohar Parrikar

Answering those raising questions over the Indian air strike on terror camp in Pakistan, Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said brave warriors do not count bodies of those killed in an operation.

“Arre sankhya poochte ho aap, kitne log maare gaye? Sankhya poochne walo se kehna chahta hun, Jo yudh-veer hota hai, maare gaye logon ki ginti nahi karta hai (You are asking what is the casualty figure? I want to tell you that brave warriors do not count bodies of those killed),” he said while addressing party workers here in Rajasthan.

His comment came in the wake of questions being raised by various opposition parties about the casualties inflicted in the IAF strike at Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp in Balakot in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on February 26.

IAF chief Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa has said that the Indian fighter jets had hit the targets given to them but it was not the job of his force to count the bodies.

Indian intelligence sources have said that there were 300 active sim-cards at the camp just before the air strike was conducted, giving a hint about the strength of the terrorists present at the facility.

The Home Minister also referred to the incidents of assaults on some Kashmiris in the country and said he has requested all states to ensure that the Kashmiris are “protected and loved”.

“Want to convey a message to the entire country. I heard about a few incidents against Kashmiri children. Kashmiris are, were and will remain our people. I have requested Chief Ministers of all states that Kashmiri students must be protected and loved,” he said.

Singh’s comments came against the backdrop of an incident in Lucknow on Wednesday when two Kashmiri dry fruit vendors were assaulted by some members of a right-wing fringe group. Four people have been arrested in connection with the incident.

Answering those raising questions over the Indian air strike on terror camp in Pakistan, Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said brave warriors do not count bodies of those killed in an operation.

Answering those raising questions over the Indian air strike on terror camp in Pakistan, Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said brave warriors do not count bodies of those killed in an operation. “Arre sankhya poochte ho aap, kitne log maare gaye? Sankhya poochne walo se kehna chahta hun, Jo yudh-veer hota hai, maare gaye logon ki ginti nahi karta hai (You are asking what is the casualty figure? I want to tell you that brave warriors do not count bodies of those killed),” he said while addressing party workers here in Rajasthan. His comment came in the wake of questions being raised by various opposition parties about the casualties inflicted in the IAF strike at Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp in Balakot in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on February 26. IAF chief Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa has said that the Indian fighter jets had hit the targets given to them but it was not the job of his force to count the bodies. Indian intelligence sources have said that there were 300 active sim-cards at the camp just before the air strike was conducted, giving a hint about the strength of the terrorists present at the facility. The Home Minister also referred to the incidents of assaults on some Kashmiris in the country and said he has requested all states to ensure that the Kashmiris are “protected and loved”. “Want to convey a message to the entire country. I heard about a few incidents against Kashmiri children. Kashmiris are, were and will remain our people. I have requested Chief Ministers of all states that Kashmiri students must be protected and loved,” he said. Singh’s comments came against the backdrop of an incident in Lucknow on Wednesday when two Kashmiri dry fruit vendors were assaulted by some members of a right-wing fringe group. Four people have been arrested in connection with the incident.

Brave warriors do not count bodies: Rajnath answers those questioning casualties in air strike

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday lauded the Indian Air Force's air strike on the Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakot, Pakistan and slammed the opposition for raising questions over the operation.&nbsp;

Singh asked if the IAF pilots who carried out the strikes were supposed to land and count the number of terrorists killed in the operation.&nbsp;

"The way IAF hit the terror camps is absolutely remarkable. But there are a few people who are questioning it, I want to ask them, was it the duty of pilots to land and then count the numbers to know how many were killed after the operation — 1,2,3,4,5?" Singh was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

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HM Rajnath Singh: The way IAF hit the terror camps is absolutely remarkable. But there are a few people who are questioning it, I want to ask them, was it the duty of pilots to land and then count the numbers to know how many were killed after the operation- 1,2,3,4,5? <a href="https://t.co/hXR77u56Ha">pic.twitter.com/hXR77u56Ha</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1103327351184609280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Defence Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/balakot-air-strike-non-military-action-as-no-civilian-casualty-caused-nirmala-sitharaman-201327">Nirmala Sitharaman said Tuesday</a> the Indian Air Force strike that destroyed a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp in Pakistan's Balakot area was "not a military action" as there was no civilian casualty.

She also said Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale had not given any casualty figure in his media briefing after the air strike and only gave a statement which is the government's "position".

Gokhale had said the non-military and preemptive strike on the Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp killed a "very large number" of terrorists, trainers and senior commanders, news agency PTI reported.

Sitharaman's remarks came amid some Opposition leader demanding evidence about the number of terrorists killed in the air strike.

The IAF, which carried out the strike on February 26, said on Monday that government would provide details on the casualty figures as the Air Force only sees if a target has been hit or not, PTI reported.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, the defence minister said, "There was no need to analyse more on Balakot strike" as she declined to link the air strike on terror camp with the coming Lok Sabha election.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday lauded the Indian Air Force's air strike on the Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakot, Pakistan and slammed the opposition for raising questions over the operation.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday lauded the Indian Air Force's air strike on the Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakot, Pakistan and slammed the opposition for raising questions over the operation. Singh asked if the IAF pilots who carried out the strikes were supposed to land and count the number of terrorists killed in the operation. "The way IAF hit the terror camps is absolutely remarkable. But there are a few people who are questioning it, I want to ask them, was it the duty of pilots to land and then count the numbers to know how many were killed after the operation — 1,2,3,4,5?" Singh was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. HM Rajnath Singh: The way IAF hit the terror camps is absolutely remarkable. But there are a few people who are questioning it, I want to ask them, was it the duty of pilots to land and then count the numbers to know how many were killed after the operation- 1,2,3,4,5? pic.twitter.com/hXR77u56Ha — ANI (@ANI) March 6, 2019 × Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said Tuesday the Indian Air Force strike that destroyed a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp in Pakistan's Balakot area was "not a military action" as there was no civilian casualty. She also said Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale had not given any casualty figure in his media briefing after the air strike and only gave a statement which is the government's "position". Gokhale had said the non-military and preemptive strike on the Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp killed a "very large number" of terrorists, trainers and senior commanders, news agency PTI reported. Sitharaman's remarks came amid some Opposition leader demanding evidence about the number of terrorists killed in the air strike. The IAF, which carried out the strike on February 26, said on Monday that government would provide details on the casualty figures as the Air Force only sees if a target has been hit or not, PTI reported. On Tuesday, the defence minister said, "There was no need to analyse more on Balakot strike" as she declined to link the air strike on terror camp with the coming Lok Sabha election. (With inputs from PTI)

IAF pilots weren't supposed to land and count number of terrorists killed in Balakot: Rajnath Singh

The Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday blamed the West Bengal government for delay in fencing along the India-Bangladesh border.

Singh said that the Home Ministry had notified the Bengal government to acquire land so that fences could be constructed along the border between the two nations.

“Part of the fencing is pending in West Bengal-Bangladesh bordering areas. We had held a meeting with the state government officials and they had assured that they will acquire land on which the fence was to be constructed. There is no delay from our side. If there is a delay, it is on the part of the West Bengal government,” said Singh.

The Home Minister was speaking at Assam’s Dhubri district while inaugurating the smart fence or the BOLD-QIT (Border Electronically Dominated QRT Interception Technique) under Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS) on Indo- Bangladesh border.

Bengal shares 2216.70 km its border with Bangladesh. Of the total 2216.70 km, 913.080 km falls within in South Bengal frontier of BSF, of which 374 km is fenced and 538 km is unfenced. The portion of the border that falls under the North Bengal frontier is also unfenced.

Experts claim that land acquisition is a major obstacle in constructing these fences. Despite the Bengal government setting up a committee to acquire land, the delay seems that the 2019 deadline is likely to be missed.

Sources in the BSF say that a fence is the only way to put a check on cattle smuggling across the border. 
“There are some vulnerable spots through which the cattle smuggling takes place. These are mostly near the unfenced border. If we need to keep a check on cattle smuggling besides smuggling of illegal arms and fake Indian currency notes (FICN), fences need to be constructed,” said an official of BSF on anonymity.

The Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday blamed the West Bengal government for delay in fencing along the India-Bangladesh border. Singh said that the Home Ministry had notified the Bengal government to acquire land so that fences could be constructed along the border between the two nations.

The Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday blamed the West Bengal government for delay in fencing along the India-Bangladesh border. Singh said that the Home Ministry had notified the Bengal government to acquire land so that fences could be constructed along the border between the two nations. “Part of the fencing is pending in West Bengal-Bangladesh bordering areas. We had held a meeting with the state government officials and they had assured that they will acquire land on which the fence was to be constructed. There is no delay from our side. If there is a delay, it is on the part of the West Bengal government,” said Singh. The Home Minister was speaking at Assam’s Dhubri district while inaugurating the smart fence or the BOLD-QIT (Border Electronically Dominated QRT Interception Technique) under Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS) on Indo- Bangladesh border. Bengal shares 2216.70 km its border with Bangladesh. Of the total 2216.70 km, 913.080 km falls within in South Bengal frontier of BSF, of which 374 km is fenced and 538 km is unfenced. The portion of the border that falls under the North Bengal frontier is also unfenced. Experts claim that land acquisition is a major obstacle in constructing these fences. Despite the Bengal government setting up a committee to acquire land, the delay seems that the 2019 deadline is likely to be missed. Sources in the BSF say that a fence is the only way to put a check on cattle smuggling across the border. “There are some vulnerable spots through which the cattle smuggling takes place. These are mostly near the unfenced border. If we need to keep a check on cattle smuggling besides smuggling of illegal arms and fake Indian currency notes (FICN), fences need to be constructed,” said an official of BSF on anonymity.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh blames Bengal government for delay in fencing of Indo-Bangla border

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Wednesday reviewed the security situation in the country, especially along the border with Pakistan, a day after Indian fighter jets bombed the biggest camp of terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad in that country, officials said.

During the meeting, attended by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval among others, a detailed presentation was given about the security situation in the country and steps taken to ensure peace in all sensitive places.

Singh directed the officials to ensure the Border Security Force, which guards the India-Pakistan border continues to remain on the highest level of alertness so that any misadventure from across the border could be foiled, a home ministry official said.

Those who attended the meeting include Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and Intelligence Bureau Director Rajiv Jain.

In a pinpointed and swift air strike that lasted less than two minutes, India pounded Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp in Pakistan early Tuesday, killing up to 350 terrorists and trainers who were moved there for their protection after the Pulwama attack, officials said.

The pre-dawn operation described as "non-military" and "preemptive" struck a five-star resort-style camp on a hilltop forest that provided a dozen Mirage 2000 fighter jets of the Indian Air Force(IAF) with a "sitting duck target" and caught the terrorists in their sleep, sources said. The strike is the first by the IAF inside Pakistan after the 1971 war.

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale told the media that the "intelligence-led operation" on the Pakistan-based terror group's biggest training camp in Balakot became "absolutely necessary" as it was planning more suicide attacks in India, after the February 14 attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama in which 40 soldiers were killed.

The JeM claimed responsibility for the Pulwama strike.&nbsp;

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Wednesday reviewed the security situation in the country, especially along the border with Pakistan, a day after Indian fighter jets bombed the biggest camp of terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad in that country, officials said.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Wednesday reviewed the security situation in the country, especially along the border with Pakistan, a day after Indian fighter jets bombed the biggest camp of terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad in that country, officials said. During the meeting, attended by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval among others, a detailed presentation was given about the security situation in the country and steps taken to ensure peace in all sensitive places. Singh directed the officials to ensure the Border Security Force, which guards the India-Pakistan border continues to remain on the highest level of alertness so that any misadventure from across the border could be foiled, a home ministry official said. Those who attended the meeting include Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and Intelligence Bureau Director Rajiv Jain. In a pinpointed and swift air strike that lasted less than two minutes, India pounded Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp in Pakistan early Tuesday, killing up to 350 terrorists and trainers who were moved there for their protection after the Pulwama attack, officials said. The pre-dawn operation described as "non-military" and "preemptive" struck a five-star resort-style camp on a hilltop forest that provided a dozen Mirage 2000 fighter jets of the Indian Air Force(IAF) with a "sitting duck target" and caught the terrorists in their sleep, sources said. The strike is the first by the IAF inside Pakistan after the 1971 war. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale told the media that the "intelligence-led operation" on the Pakistan-based terror group's biggest training camp in Balakot became "absolutely necessary" as it was planning more suicide attacks in India, after the February 14 attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama in which 40 soldiers were killed. The JeM claimed responsibility for the Pulwama strike.

Rajnath reviews security situation a day after airstrike on terrorist camp in Pakistan

Rajnath Singh holds meeting with RAW chief, NSA, other security officials

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Thursday assured the people of the country that the terror attack on a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/crpf-convoy-attacked-in-jammu-kashmirs-pulwama-death-toll-climbs-to-40-197468">CRPF bus</a> in Jammu and Kashmir, carried out by Pakistan-sponsored Jaish-e-Mohammed, will be avenged.

In a statement, he said the central government is determined to foil the designs of those who want to disrupt peace through such a terror attack "sponsored and sheltered by Pakistan".

"Jaish-e-Mohammed has carried out this<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-what-we-know-so-far-197443"> terror attack</a>. We assure the country that we will undertake whatever it takes to avenge this," he said.

Singh will be visiting Srinagar Friday to take stock of the situation in the wake of the attack on the convoy that killed at least 39 CRPF personnel.

He will also hold review meetings with senior security and police officials to make a ground-level assessment and review further operational actions.

Singh has cancelled all his political engagements in Bihar Friday.

He called up Governor Satya Pal Malik, who apprised him about the prevailing situation in the state. Singh also spoke to National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba, Director of Intelligence Bureau Rajiv Jain and Director General of CRPF R R Bhatnagar and gave them necessary instructions, a home ministry official said.

In a tweet, Singh said, "Today's dastardly attack on CRPF in Pulwama (J&amp;K) is extremely painful and disturbing. I bow to each and every CRPF jawan who has sacrificed his life in service to the nation. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured."

The home ministry is also closely monitoring the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, which is currently under the President's rule.

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi may meet on Friday to take stock of the situation in Jammu and Kashmir.

The CCS, the country's top decision-making body on strategic affairs, comprises the Home Minister, the Defence Minister, the External Affairs Minister and the Finance Minister besides the Prime Minister.

At least 39 CRPF personnel were killed in Pulwama when the Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into the bus they were travelling in.

This is one of the worst terror strikes in the state since the Uri attack in 2016.&nbsp;

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Thursday assured the people of the country that the terror attack on a CRPF bus in Jammu and Kashmir, carried out by Pakistan-sponsored Jaish-e-Mohammed, will be avenged.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Thursday assured the people of the country that the terror attack on a CRPF bus in Jammu and Kashmir, carried out by Pakistan-sponsored Jaish-e-Mohammed, will be avenged. In a statement, he said the central government is determined to foil the designs of those who want to disrupt peace through such a terror attack "sponsored and sheltered by Pakistan". "Jaish-e-Mohammed has carried out this terror attack. We assure the country that we will undertake whatever it takes to avenge this," he said. Singh will be visiting Srinagar Friday to take stock of the situation in the wake of the attack on the convoy that killed at least 39 CRPF personnel. He will also hold review meetings with senior security and police officials to make a ground-level assessment and review further operational actions. Singh has cancelled all his political engagements in Bihar Friday. He called up Governor Satya Pal Malik, who apprised him about the prevailing situation in the state. Singh also spoke to National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba, Director of Intelligence Bureau Rajiv Jain and Director General of CRPF R R Bhatnagar and gave them necessary instructions, a home ministry official said. In a tweet, Singh said, "Today's dastardly attack on CRPF in Pulwama (J&K) is extremely painful and disturbing. I bow to each and every CRPF jawan who has sacrificed his life in service to the nation. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured." The home ministry is also closely monitoring the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, which is currently under the President's rule. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi may meet on Friday to take stock of the situation in Jammu and Kashmir. The CCS, the country's top decision-making body on strategic affairs, comprises the Home Minister, the Defence Minister, the External Affairs Minister and the Finance Minister besides the Prime Minister. At least 39 CRPF personnel were killed in Pulwama when the Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into the bus they were travelling in. This is one of the worst terror strikes in the state since the Uri attack in 2016.

JK terror attack carried out by Pak-sponsored JeM will be avenged: Rajnath 

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Friday helped carry the coffin of a slain CRPF jawan after he laid a wreath on the mortal remains of the troops, who were killed in a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-terror-attack-india-summons-pakistan-high-commission-lodges-strong-protest-197574">terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir</a>, officials said.

Shortly after arriving from Delhi, the home minister attended a solemn function here where the remains of 40 CRPF personnel were kept in coffins, draped in tricolour.

Singh helped carry the coffin of a slain CRPF jawan before it was flown out of Jammu and Kashmir in a special aircraft, an official present at the function said.

The home minister, Governor Satya Pal Malik, Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba, CRPF Director General R R Bhatnagar, Jammu and Kashmir DGP Dilbagh Singh besides others attended the wreath laying ceremony.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Home Minister Rajnath Singh and J&amp;K DGP Dilbagh Singh lend a shoulder to mortal remains of a CRPF soldier in Budgam. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PulwamaAttack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PulwamaAttack</a> <a href="https://t.co/CN4pfBsoVr">pic.twitter.com/CN4pfBsoVr</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1096346936997761024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The nation will not forget the supreme sacrifice of our brave CRPF jawans. I have paid my last respects to the martyrs of Pulwama. The sacrifice will not go in vain," Singh said.

The dignitaries stood in silence till the coffins were loaded in a truck which went to the Srinagar airport, the official said.

Forty CRPF personnel were killed and five injured on Thursday in one of the deadliest terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir when a Jaish-e-Mohammad suicide bomber rammed a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives into their bus in Pulwama district.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, J&amp;K Governor Satya Pal Malik and Army's Northern Command chief Lt Gen Ranbir Singh in Budgam, pay tribute to CRPF personnel who lost their lives in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PulwamaAttack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PulwamaAttack</a> <a href="https://t.co/woCNZNGvzS">pic.twitter.com/woCNZNGvzS</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1096341971130568704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The bus was part of a convoy of 78 vehicles CRPF travelling from Jammu to Srinagar.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said those responsible for the attack will pay "a very heavy price" and security forces will be given a free hand to deal with terrorists. 
In a hard-hitting speech, Modi said the "blood of the people is boiling" and forces behind the act of terrorism will be definitely be punished.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Friday helped carry the coffin of a slain CRPF jawan after he laid a wreath on the mortal remains of the troops, who were killed in a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, officials said.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Friday helped carry the coffin of a slain CRPF jawan after he laid a wreath on the mortal remains of the troops, who were killed in a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, officials said. Shortly after arriving from Delhi, the home minister attended a solemn function here where the remains of 40 CRPF personnel were kept in coffins, draped in tricolour. Singh helped carry the coffin of a slain CRPF jawan before it was flown out of Jammu and Kashmir in a special aircraft, an official present at the function said. The home minister, Governor Satya Pal Malik, Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba, CRPF Director General R R Bhatnagar, Jammu and Kashmir DGP Dilbagh Singh besides others attended the wreath laying ceremony. #WATCH: Home Minister Rajnath Singh and J&K DGP Dilbagh Singh lend a shoulder to mortal remains of a CRPF soldier in Budgam. #PulwamaAttack pic.twitter.com/CN4pfBsoVr — ANI (@ANI) February 15, 2019 × "The nation will not forget the supreme sacrifice of our brave CRPF jawans. I have paid my last respects to the martyrs of Pulwama. The sacrifice will not go in vain," Singh said. The dignitaries stood in silence till the coffins were loaded in a truck which went to the Srinagar airport, the official said. Forty CRPF personnel were killed and five injured on Thursday in one of the deadliest terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir when a Jaish-e-Mohammad suicide bomber rammed a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives into their bus in Pulwama district. #WATCH Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, J&K Governor Satya Pal Malik and Army's Northern Command chief Lt Gen Ranbir Singh in Budgam, pay tribute to CRPF personnel who lost their lives in #PulwamaAttack pic.twitter.com/woCNZNGvzS — ANI (@ANI) February 15, 2019 × The bus was part of a convoy of 78 vehicles CRPF travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said those responsible for the attack will pay "a very heavy price" and security forces will be given a free hand to deal with terrorists. In a hard-hitting speech, Modi said the "blood of the people is boiling" and forces behind the act of terrorism will be definitely be punished.

Watch: Rajnath Singh helps carry coffin of CRPF jawan who lost life in Pulwama attack

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-has-made-indias-unipolar-politics-bipolar-says-union-minister-rajnath-singh-196285">Union Minister Rajnath Singh </a>on Monday denounced Congress president Rahul Gandhi's persistent 'chowkidar chor hai'&nbsp;jibe against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and coined a rhyming slogan in his defence.

While addressing a rally in Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad, Singh said that the Prime Minister is not a "chor" (thief) but "pure and that he is the only "cure" for country.

Addressing a gathering here, he said, “Main kehna chahta hoon chowkidaar chor nahi hai, balki hamara chowkidaar pure hai. Agli baar usko PM banna sure hai, aur yahi Bharat ki samasyaon ka cure hai.” (I want to say that our ‘chowkidaar’ is not a thief but is an honest man. He will be the PM for the next time for sure and that is the cure for all problems in India.)

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-committed-to-complete-nrc-within-stipulated-time-rajnath-singh-195425">Singh</a>’s remark comes after Gandhi on Monday continued his "chowkidar chor hai" barb, in a veiled reference to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying that his party would not sit idle until a government based on Congress ideology is formed in Uttar Pradesh.

Attacking the Prime Minister, Rahul said, "The country's 'chowkidar'&nbsp;looted the people of Uttar Pradesh, the Air Force and others in the country. Chowkidar chor hai!"&nbsp;

Union Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday denounced Congress president Rahul Gandhi's persistent 'chowkidar chor hai' jibe against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and coined a rhyming slogan in his defence.

Union Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday denounced Congress president Rahul Gandhi's persistent 'chowkidar chor hai' jibe against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and coined a rhyming slogan in his defence. While addressing a rally in Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad, Singh said that the Prime Minister is not a "chor" (thief) but "pure and that he is the only "cure" for country. Addressing a gathering here, he said, “Main kehna chahta hoon chowkidaar chor nahi hai, balki hamara chowkidaar pure hai. Agli baar usko PM banna sure hai, aur yahi Bharat ki samasyaon ka cure hai.” (I want to say that our ‘chowkidaar’ is not a thief but is an honest man. He will be the PM for the next time for sure and that is the cure for all problems in India.) Singh’s remark comes after Gandhi on Monday continued his "chowkidar chor hai" barb, in a veiled reference to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying that his party would not sit idle until a government based on Congress ideology is formed in Uttar Pradesh. Attacking the Prime Minister, Rahul said, "The country's 'chowkidar' looted the people of Uttar Pradesh, the Air Force and others in the country. Chowkidar chor hai!"

Chowkidar is pure, will become PM for sure: Rajnath Singh

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Tuesday asserted that the government is committed to complete the NRC process in Assam within the stipulated time and will ensure that no foreigner is included or any Indian citizen excluded.

He also said the home ministry wants that the National Register of Citizens, a list of Assam's residents, is completed with fairness and for this the state government has been provided with all necessary assistance, including funds.

"Our government is committed to complete the update of NRC within the stipulated time so that no foreigner is included in it and no Indian is left out," he told PTI here.&nbsp;

His comments came hours after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/assams-national-register-of-citizens-supreme-courts-slams-centre-says-it-is-hell-bent-on-destroying-process-195312">Supreme Court came down heavily on the government</a>, saying it is not cooperating in the NRC process and seems the entire effort of the MHA is to destroy the exercise.

The court also reiterated that the July 31 deadline for the completion of NRC exercise will not be extended.&nbsp;

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Tuesday asserted that the government is committed to complete the NRC process in Assam within the stipulated time and will ensure that no foreigner is included or any Indian citizen excluded.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Tuesday asserted that the government is committed to complete the NRC process in Assam within the stipulated time and will ensure that no foreigner is included or any Indian citizen excluded. He also said the home ministry wants that the National Register of Citizens, a list of Assam's residents, is completed with fairness and for this the state government has been provided with all necessary assistance, including funds. "Our government is committed to complete the update of NRC within the stipulated time so that no foreigner is included in it and no Indian is left out," he told PTI here. His comments came hours after the Supreme Court came down heavily on the government, saying it is not cooperating in the NRC process and seems the entire effort of the MHA is to destroy the exercise. The court also reiterated that the July 31 deadline for the completion of NRC exercise will not be extended.

Centre committed to complete NRC within stipulated time: Rajnath Singh

A high-level meeting to discuss the modalities of the Kartarpur corridor took place in the Home Ministry on Tuesday with the key issues being land acquisition and pilgrims' access to the other side. A high-level meet between Indian and Pakistani officials is expected to take place very soon.&nbsp;

The meeting, which was chaired by Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba, was also attended by the Punjab chief secretary, Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria, DG BSF RK Mishra, and officials from the Road and Transport Ministry. The meeting lasted approximately 45 minutes.&nbsp;

Land acquisition for the corridor on the Indian side was was a key focus area, as was the road network on the Indian side. Bisaria informed the attendees about the progress on the Pakistani side of the corridor which he visited a week ago.

The Home Ministry is the nodal ministry for coordinating with the authorities concerned, including local governments while the Road, Transport and Highways Ministry is the nodal ministry for the building and development of the corridor on the Indian side.

How pilgrims can get across to the Pakistani side with the help of simple procedures was the other key area. The Issues raised during the meeting included biometric records, the online registration of pilgrims, and timings. Sources said it was suggested that the corridor be open only for six hours during the day. It was indicated that as of now, no consensus has been reached with Islamabad on the number of pilgrims to be allowed across a day.&nbsp;

Indo-Pak officials' meet on the anvil 
According to sources in Pakistan, India is likely to propose a formal meeting on the Kartarpur corridor to Pakistan soon. The meeting is expected to take place between the third week of January and the first week of February. The sources said Pakistan will accept the proposal and invite for the meeting, as and when proposed.

Pakistan's Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Inter-faith Harmony Noor-ul-Haq Qadri, who visited Kartapar Sahib Gurudwara recently, had said "35% of work on the corridor on the Pakistani side has been completed." Qadri had added that work on the corridor on the Pakistani side will be completed before Guru Nanak's 550th birth anniversary.

Punjab CM writes to Centre on Kartarpur corridor 
Meanwhile, Punjab CM Amarinder Singh has written to Home Minister Rajnath Singh on the Kartarpur corridor and requested him to waive the mandatory condition that devotees will need passports to cross over. This, he said in the letter, will enable "khulle darshan deedar” of the gurudwara where Guru Nanak spent the last 18 years of his life. He suggested to the Centre that any valid government document such as an Aadhar card be used for identification at the border. The issue of passport-free access was reiterated by the Punjab chief secretary during the meet on the Kartarpur corridor at the home ministry.

A high-level meeting to discuss the modalities of the Kartarpur corridor took place in the Home Ministry on Tuesday with the key issues being land acquisition and pilgrims' access to the other side.

A high-level meeting to discuss the modalities of the Kartarpur corridor took place in the Home Ministry on Tuesday with the key issues being land acquisition and pilgrims' access to the other side. A high-level meet between Indian and Pakistani officials is expected to take place very soon. The meeting, which was chaired by Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba, was also attended by the Punjab chief secretary, Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria, DG BSF RK Mishra, and officials from the Road and Transport Ministry. The meeting lasted approximately 45 minutes. Land acquisition for the corridor on the Indian side was was a key focus area, as was the road network on the Indian side. Bisaria informed the attendees about the progress on the Pakistani side of the corridor which he visited a week ago. The Home Ministry is the nodal ministry for coordinating with the authorities concerned, including local governments while the Road, Transport and Highways Ministry is the nodal ministry for the building and development of the corridor on the Indian side. How pilgrims can get across to the Pakistani side with the help of simple procedures was the other key area. The Issues raised during the meeting included biometric records, the online registration of pilgrims, and timings. Sources said it was suggested that the corridor be open only for six hours during the day. It was indicated that as of now, no consensus has been reached with Islamabad on the number of pilgrims to be allowed across a day. Indo-Pak officials' meet on the anvil According to sources in Pakistan, India is likely to propose a formal meeting on the Kartarpur corridor to Pakistan soon. The meeting is expected to take place between the third week of January and the first week of February. The sources said Pakistan will accept the proposal and invite for the meeting, as and when proposed. Pakistan's Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Inter-faith Harmony Noor-ul-Haq Qadri, who visited Kartapar Sahib Gurudwara recently, had said "35% of work on the corridor on the Pakistani side has been completed." Qadri had added that work on the corridor on the Pakistani side will be completed before Guru Nanak's 550th birth anniversary. Punjab CM writes to Centre on Kartarpur corridor Meanwhile, Punjab CM Amarinder Singh has written to Home Minister Rajnath Singh on the Kartarpur corridor and requested him to waive the mandatory condition that devotees will need passports to cross over. This, he said in the letter, will enable "khulle darshan deedar” of the gurudwara where Guru Nanak spent the last 18 years of his life. He suggested to the Centre that any valid government document such as an Aadhar card be used for identification at the border. The issue of passport-free access was reiterated by the Punjab chief secretary during the meet on the Kartarpur corridor at the home ministry.

Kartarpur corridor: Indian, Pakistani officials to meet soon as Pak says 35% work on its side of border complete

The Supreme Court on Monday said a plea challenging the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to provide Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan, could only be taken up after the bill was approved by the Rajya Sabha.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said it would keep the plea filed by the "Nagarikatwa Aain Songsudhan Birodhi Mancha" (Forum Against Citizenship Act Amendment Bill) and others pending and might hear it only after Parliament took the final view on the bill.

"Having heard the counsel for the petitioners, we are of the view that this matter should remain pending and be taken up only after the Citizenship Amendment Bill, the consideration of which is now stated to be pending before the Rajya Sabha, reaches its finality.

"The petitioners will be at liberty to mention the matter at the appropriate time," the bench, also comprising justices Ashok Bhushan and S K Kaul, said. 
The bill has been cleared by the Lok Sabha and it would now be presented in the Upper House of Parliament.

The public interest litigation (PIL) has sought to declare the Passport (Entry into India) Amendment Rules, 2015 and the Foreigners (Amendment) Order as "discriminatory, arbitrary and illegal".

"We can keep this plea pending and if it (bill) is passed in the Rajya Sabha, then the lawyer can mention it for hearing," the bench said.

The bill, passed in the Lok Sabha on January 8, provides for according Indian citizenship to the Hindus, Jains, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists and Parsis who fled religious persecution in Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan after six years of residence in India, instead of the 12 years currently, even if they do not possess any document.

It also seeks to provide relief to the persecuted migrants who have come through the western borders of the country to states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh etc., the home minister had said.

The PIL opposed the bill on the ground that it had introduced religion as a new principle into the citizenship law and termed it as "communally motivated humanitarianism".

"Never before has religion been specifically identified in the citizenship law as a ground for distinguishing between citizens and non-citizens. It has introduced religion as a new principle into the citizenship law and can be conveniently branded as 'communally motivated humanitarianism'.

"The illegal immigrants who are to be granted the benefit of this legislation are to qualify for citizenship only on the basis of religion, a requirement that goes against one of the basic tenets of the Indian Constitution, secularism," it said.

It further claimed that the "direct and inevitable" effect of the bill would be the dilution of the Assam Accord inked in 1985, which presently made anyone entering Assam from Bangladesh after March 24, 1971, an "illegal immigrant".

"The amendment defeats the purpose of the accord and opens the floodgates to more illegal immigration and consequently, increases claims on diminishing resources. The transformation of migrants, hitherto perceived as illegal encroachers, into legitimate citizens cannot be justified," it said.

The plea further claimed that the bill had the potential to "derail and nullify" the gains made by updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam.

"Many persons, who could not otherwise establish their claims and were therefore excluded from the draft NRC published recently, can now take shelter under this and subsequently, become legitimate Indian citizens at the cost of the indigenous people of Assam," it said.

The petition further alleged that Assam had repeatedly witnessed ethnic clashes and violence, which were arising out of existential threat perceptions, fear of being reduced to a minority in one's own homeland and giving up territories to foreigners and imposition of foreign or alien culture.

The PIL sought directions to the Centre, the Ministry of External Affairs and the Assam government to declare the Passport (Entry into India) Amendment Rules, 2015 and the Foreigners (Amendment) Order as "discriminatory, arbitrary and illegal".

It further sought directions to the Centre to constitute a National Immigration Commission or any other appropriate body to frame a National Immigration Policy and a National Refugee Policy.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Monday said a plea challenging the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to provide Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan, could only be taken up after the bill was approved by the Rajya Sabha.

The Supreme Court on Monday said a plea challenging the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to provide Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan, could only be taken up after the bill was approved by the Rajya Sabha. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said it would keep the plea filed by the "Nagarikatwa Aain Songsudhan Birodhi Mancha" (Forum Against Citizenship Act Amendment Bill) and others pending and might hear it only after Parliament took the final view on the bill. "Having heard the counsel for the petitioners, we are of the view that this matter should remain pending and be taken up only after the Citizenship Amendment Bill, the consideration of which is now stated to be pending before the Rajya Sabha, reaches its finality. "The petitioners will be at liberty to mention the matter at the appropriate time," the bench, also comprising justices Ashok Bhushan and S K Kaul, said. The bill has been cleared by the Lok Sabha and it would now be presented in the Upper House of Parliament. The public interest litigation (PIL) has sought to declare the Passport (Entry into India) Amendment Rules, 2015 and the Foreigners (Amendment) Order as "discriminatory, arbitrary and illegal". "We can keep this plea pending and if it (bill) is passed in the Rajya Sabha, then the lawyer can mention it for hearing," the bench said. The bill, passed in the Lok Sabha on January 8, provides for according Indian citizenship to the Hindus, Jains, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists and Parsis who fled religious persecution in Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan after six years of residence in India, instead of the 12 years currently, even if they do not possess any document. It also seeks to provide relief to the persecuted migrants who have come through the western borders of the country to states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh etc., the home minister had said. The PIL opposed the bill on the ground that it had introduced religion as a new principle into the citizenship law and termed it as "communally motivated humanitarianism". "Never before has religion been specifically identified in the citizenship law as a ground for distinguishing between citizens and non-citizens. It has introduced religion as a new principle into the citizenship law and can be conveniently branded as 'communally motivated humanitarianism'. "The illegal immigrants who are to be granted the benefit of this legislation are to qualify for citizenship only on the basis of religion, a requirement that goes against one of the basic tenets of the Indian Constitution, secularism," it said. It further claimed that the "direct and inevitable" effect of the bill would be the dilution of the Assam Accord inked in 1985, which presently made anyone entering Assam from Bangladesh after March 24, 1971, an "illegal immigrant". "The amendment defeats the purpose of the accord and opens the floodgates to more illegal immigration and consequently, increases claims on diminishing resources. The transformation of migrants, hitherto perceived as illegal encroachers, into legitimate citizens cannot be justified," it said. The plea further claimed that the bill had the potential to "derail and nullify" the gains made by updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam. "Many persons, who could not otherwise establish their claims and were therefore excluded from the draft NRC published recently, can now take shelter under this and subsequently, become legitimate Indian citizens at the cost of the indigenous people of Assam," it said. The petition further alleged that Assam had repeatedly witnessed ethnic clashes and violence, which were arising out of existential threat perceptions, fear of being reduced to a minority in one's own homeland and giving up territories to foreigners and imposition of foreign or alien culture. The PIL sought directions to the Centre, the Ministry of External Affairs and the Assam government to declare the Passport (Entry into India) Amendment Rules, 2015 and the Foreigners (Amendment) Order as "discriminatory, arbitrary and illegal". It further sought directions to the Centre to constitute a National Immigration Commission or any other appropriate body to frame a National Immigration Policy and a National Refugee Policy.

Supreme Court to hear plea against Citizenship Amendment Bill after Rajya Sabha clears it

Amidst the Citizenship Amendment Bill controversy, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has assured Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh of protection of rights and interests of the people of Manipur.

N Biren Singh called on Rajnath Singh along with Manipur BJP president and Rajya Sabha MP Ksh. Bhabananda Singh on Saturday.

They discussed issues related to the protection of the rights and interests of the indigenous people of Manipur.

Rajnath Singh assured that interests of all North Eastern states, including Manipur, and their culture and heritage will be fully protected.

He promised to call for a meeting of all concerned state chief ministers to discuss requisite safeguards in this regard.

The Manipur chief minister also submitted a memorandum urging for Presidential assent to Manipur People's Protection Bill 2018. The Home Minister assured that the ministry will examine the Bill.

Amidst the Citizenship Amendment Bill controversy, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has assured Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh of protection of rights and interests of the people of Manipur.

Amidst the Citizenship Amendment Bill controversy, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has assured Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh of protection of rights and interests of the people of Manipur. N Biren Singh called on Rajnath Singh along with Manipur BJP president and Rajya Sabha MP Ksh. Bhabananda Singh on Saturday. They discussed issues related to the protection of the rights and interests of the indigenous people of Manipur. Rajnath Singh assured that interests of all North Eastern states, including Manipur, and their culture and heritage will be fully protected. He promised to call for a meeting of all concerned state chief ministers to discuss requisite safeguards in this regard. The Manipur chief minister also submitted a memorandum urging for Presidential assent to Manipur People's Protection Bill 2018. The Home Minister assured that the ministry will examine the Bill.

Citizenship Amendment Bill: Rajnath Singh assures Manipur CM protection of rights

As Kerala continued to witness incidents of violence, Governor Justice P Sathasivam Saturday briefed the Centre about the law and order situation in the southern state.

"Briefed Hon'ble Union Home Minister @HMOIndia Shri. Rajnath Singh about the law and order situation in Kerala in the last two days #kerala," he tweeted.

Raj Bhavan sources told PTI that the Governor, who is now in Chennai, briefed Singh about the situation over phone.

With the state witnessing widespread violence during the 12-hour state-wide shutdown called by Hindu fringe groups on Thursday, Sathasivam had sought an "urgent report" from Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

He had also appealed to all sections of people to maintain calm and peace across the state.

The entry of two women of reproductive age into the Lord Ayyappa shrine at Sabarimala on Wednesday, the first time since the Supreme Court in September last year lifted the age-linked ban on entry of women devotees, has triggered massive protests in Kerala.

Violence involving BJP-RSS and ruling CPI(M) workers rocked parts of Kerala, particularly Kannur, Saturday with a number of houses and shops of rival leaders and workers being attacked over the issue.&nbsp;

As Kerala continued to witness incidents of violence, Governor Justice P Sathasivam Saturday briefed the Centre about the law and order situation in the southern state.

As Kerala continued to witness incidents of violence, Governor Justice P Sathasivam Saturday briefed the Centre about the law and order situation in the southern state. "Briefed Hon'ble Union Home Minister @HMOIndia Shri. Rajnath Singh about the law and order situation in Kerala in the last two days #kerala," he tweeted. Raj Bhavan sources told PTI that the Governor, who is now in Chennai, briefed Singh about the situation over phone. With the state witnessing widespread violence during the 12-hour state-wide shutdown called by Hindu fringe groups on Thursday, Sathasivam had sought an "urgent report" from Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. He had also appealed to all sections of people to maintain calm and peace across the state. The entry of two women of reproductive age into the Lord Ayyappa shrine at Sabarimala on Wednesday, the first time since the Supreme Court in September last year lifted the age-linked ban on entry of women devotees, has triggered massive protests in Kerala. Violence involving BJP-RSS and ruling CPI(M) workers rocked parts of Kerala, particularly Kannur, Saturday with a number of houses and shops of rival leaders and workers being attacked over the issue.

Sabarimala: Kerala government briefs Rajnath Singh over law and order situation

In a letter released to media, veteran Bharatiya Janata Party leader Sanghpriya Gautam stated that former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan should be the party chief.&nbsp;

Gautam noted that incumbent party chief Amit Shah should work harder in the Rajya Sabha and pave way for Chouhan to take over his role. The veteran leader also noted that Home Minister Rajnath Singh should take over as Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari should become Deputy Prime Minister.&nbsp;

The leader expressed dissatisfaction with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and added that he should be sent to do religious work. Although he acknowledged the stature of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a political leader, he expressed doubt over the success of another Modi wave in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

The 88-year-old leader, who served as a Minister of State in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led NDA government, opined that the people of the country are not happy with the policies undertaken by the current government. Its interference with institutions like the Reserve Bank of India and the Central Bank of India has not been viewed in a positive light by the masses, the former minister added.&nbsp;

Gautam had previously held MoS portfolio for agriculture and rural industries. A Lawyer by profession, he was elected to Rajya Sabha in 1990 and in 1998 as a candidate of Bharatiya Janata Party.

In a letter released to media, veteran Bharatiya Janata Party leader Sanghpriya Gautam stated that former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan should be the party chief.

In a letter released to media, veteran Bharatiya Janata Party leader Sanghpriya Gautam stated that former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan should be the party chief. Gautam noted that incumbent party chief Amit Shah should work harder in the Rajya Sabha and pave way for Chouhan to take over his role. The veteran leader also noted that Home Minister Rajnath Singh should take over as Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari should become Deputy Prime Minister. The leader expressed dissatisfaction with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and added that he should be sent to do religious work. Although he acknowledged the stature of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a political leader, he expressed doubt over the success of another Modi wave in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The 88-year-old leader, who served as a Minister of State in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led NDA government, opined that the people of the country are not happy with the policies undertaken by the current government. Its interference with institutions like the Reserve Bank of India and the Central Bank of India has not been viewed in a positive light by the masses, the former minister added. Gautam had previously held MoS portfolio for agriculture and rural industries. A Lawyer by profession, he was elected to Rajya Sabha in 1990 and in 1998 as a candidate of Bharatiya Janata Party.

BJP veteran drops bombshell, wants Shivraj Singh Chouhan to replace Amit Shah as BJP chief

The Centre Monday approved the release of Rs 1,146 crore to Tamil Nadu for the people affected by cyclone 'Gaja', which had claimed 46 lives and left a trail of destruction in over 10 districts in the state.

The approval for the financial assistance was given at a high level committee chaired by Home Minister Rajnath Singh.

The high level committee approved the additional assistance of Rs 1,146.12 crore to Tamil Nadu from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), a statement from the Home Ministry said.

Earlier on December 3, the central government had released Rs 353.70 crore as an interim relief, in order to support the affected people of Tamil Nadu.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh and Vice Chairman, Niti Ayog, Rajiv Kumar attended the meeting.

Last month, the Tamil Nadu government had sought about Rs 14,910 crore as central assistance towards relief and rehabilitation activities in cyclone 'Gaja' affected districts in the state.

According to the abstract of memorandum submitted to the central government, the Tamil Nadu government had sought a total sum of Rs 14,910 crore towards permanent renovation activities in various areas, including the power sector which has been badly hit.

Over one lakh electric poles had been uprooted and a significant number of power sub-stations damaged, with reports suggesting that many parts are still without electricity.

Cyclone 'Gaja' had crossed the Tamil Nadu coast early on November 16 between Nagapattinam, about 300 km from here, and nearby Vedaranyam.

It had claimed 46 lives and left a trail of destruction in over 10 districts, including Nagapttinam, Thiruvarur, Puthukottai and Thanjavur.&nbsp;

The Centre Monday approved the release of Rs 1,146 crore to Tamil Nadu for the people affected by cyclone 'Gaja', which had claimed 46 lives and left a trail of destruction in over 10 districts in the state.

The Centre Monday approved the release of Rs 1,146 crore to Tamil Nadu for the people affected by cyclone 'Gaja', which had claimed 46 lives and left a trail of destruction in over 10 districts in the state. The approval for the financial assistance was given at a high level committee chaired by Home Minister Rajnath Singh. The high level committee approved the additional assistance of Rs 1,146.12 crore to Tamil Nadu from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), a statement from the Home Ministry said. Earlier on December 3, the central government had released Rs 353.70 crore as an interim relief, in order to support the affected people of Tamil Nadu. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh and Vice Chairman, Niti Ayog, Rajiv Kumar attended the meeting. Last month, the Tamil Nadu government had sought about Rs 14,910 crore as central assistance towards relief and rehabilitation activities in cyclone 'Gaja' affected districts in the state. According to the abstract of memorandum submitted to the central government, the Tamil Nadu government had sought a total sum of Rs 14,910 crore towards permanent renovation activities in various areas, including the power sector which has been badly hit. Over one lakh electric poles had been uprooted and a significant number of power sub-stations damaged, with reports suggesting that many parts are still without electricity. Cyclone 'Gaja' had crossed the Tamil Nadu coast early on November 16 between Nagapattinam, about 300 km from here, and nearby Vedaranyam. It had claimed 46 lives and left a trail of destruction in over 10 districts, including Nagapttinam, Thiruvarur, Puthukottai and Thanjavur.

Cyclone Gaja: Centre approves release of Rs 1,146 crore to Tamil Nadu

Pump manufacturing company Kirloskar Brothers Ltd and Coal India on Friday are jointly moving 18 high-powered pumps to a remote coal mine here where 15 diggers have been trapped since its flooding a fortnight ago, officials said.

The Indian Air Force joined the rescue operation and airlifted 10 pumps from Bhubaneswar. Its personnel have landed in Guwahati, 270 kilometres away from the 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine, they said.

Two surveyors from Kirloskar Brothers Ltd arrived at the site Thursday night from Pune and 10 pumps of the company are on the way to Shillong, East Jaintia Hills district Superintendent of Police Sylvester Nongtynger told PTI.

General Manager of North Eastern Coalfields J Bora arrived with two officers of the company in the afternoon and they were followed by a 10-member team of experts of the Coal India (CIL) to the site to begin the assesment of the situation, he said.

The illegal rat-hole coal mine is located at Lumthari village near Khliehriat, the headquarters of East Jaintia Hills district. It got flooded when water from nearby Lytein river gushed into it on December 13, trapping the 15 diggers.

Bora said CIL has mobilised eight high-powered pumps from its establishments across the country and the pumps will be transported to the site by road.

The farthest place from where a pump has been mobilised is Bilaspur in Chhatisgarh and the truck carrying it will take three to four days to arrive, Bora said.

The CIL team, he said, will conduct all necessary exercises prior to the arrival of the pumps and it will take about eight hours to complete the fitting of each pump before it can be put into operation.

"We are waiting for the initial 10 high-powered pumps. They will be brought here in the evening today," the SP said.

The high-powered pumps will be transported in trailers from Guwahati till about two kilometres from the accident site. From there vehicles have been requisitioned to carry them to the mine, a senior district official said.

Meanwhile, a 20-member team of the Odisha Fire Services Friday left for Shillong with equipment, including high-powered pumps, high-tech equipment and gadgets to assist the local administration in the search and rescue operation, a report from Bhubaneswar said.

Pumping of water from the mine was suspended on Saturday last as there was no visible receding of the water level in it. The district authorities had written to the state government seeking high-powered pumps as the two 25 hp pumps, which were being used, were found to be inadequate, an official of the NDRF, which is involved in the rescue operation, said.

Kirloskar Brothers had volunteered to provide equipment to drain out the water from the mine to facilitate resumption of the halted search and rescue operation in the rat-hole coal pit.

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma met Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh in the national capital Thursday over the coal mine issue.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi had on Wednesday attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the incident.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) had on Thursday contradicted media reports which quoted it as saying the trapped minors were suspected dead on the basis of the foul odour the force's divers had smelt when they had gone inside the mine.

It said in a statement that the foul smell could be due to the stagnant water in the mine as pumping had been halted for more than 48 hours.

Two NDRF teams are engaged in the search and rescue operation.

Rat-hole mining involves digging of narrow tunnels, usually 3-4 feet high, for workers to enter and extract coal. The horizontal tunnels are often termed "rat-holes" as each just about fits one person.&nbsp;

Pump manufacturing company Kirloskar Brothers Ltd and Coal India on Friday are jointly moving 18 high-powered pumps to a remote coal mine here where 15 diggers have been trapped since its flooding a fortnight ago, officials said.

Pump manufacturing company Kirloskar Brothers Ltd and Coal India on Friday are jointly moving 18 high-powered pumps to a remote coal mine here where 15 diggers have been trapped since its flooding a fortnight ago, officials said. The Indian Air Force joined the rescue operation and airlifted 10 pumps from Bhubaneswar. Its personnel have landed in Guwahati, 270 kilometres away from the 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine, they said. Two surveyors from Kirloskar Brothers Ltd arrived at the site Thursday night from Pune and 10 pumps of the company are on the way to Shillong, East Jaintia Hills district Superintendent of Police Sylvester Nongtynger told PTI. General Manager of North Eastern Coalfields J Bora arrived with two officers of the company in the afternoon and they were followed by a 10-member team of experts of the Coal India (CIL) to the site to begin the assesment of the situation, he said. The illegal rat-hole coal mine is located at Lumthari village near Khliehriat, the headquarters of East Jaintia Hills district. It got flooded when water from nearby Lytein river gushed into it on December 13, trapping the 15 diggers. Bora said CIL has mobilised eight high-powered pumps from its establishments across the country and the pumps will be transported to the site by road. The farthest place from where a pump has been mobilised is Bilaspur in Chhatisgarh and the truck carrying it will take three to four days to arrive, Bora said. The CIL team, he said, will conduct all necessary exercises prior to the arrival of the pumps and it will take about eight hours to complete the fitting of each pump before it can be put into operation. "We are waiting for the initial 10 high-powered pumps. They will be brought here in the evening today," the SP said. The high-powered pumps will be transported in trailers from Guwahati till about two kilometres from the accident site. From there vehicles have been requisitioned to carry them to the mine, a senior district official said. Meanwhile, a 20-member team of the Odisha Fire Services Friday left for Shillong with equipment, including high-powered pumps, high-tech equipment and gadgets to assist the local administration in the search and rescue operation, a report from Bhubaneswar said. Pumping of water from the mine was suspended on Saturday last as there was no visible receding of the water level in it. The district authorities had written to the state government seeking high-powered pumps as the two 25 hp pumps, which were being used, were found to be inadequate, an official of the NDRF, which is involved in the rescue operation, said. Kirloskar Brothers had volunteered to provide equipment to drain out the water from the mine to facilitate resumption of the halted search and rescue operation in the rat-hole coal pit. Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma met Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh in the national capital Thursday over the coal mine issue. Congress president Rahul Gandhi had on Wednesday attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the incident. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) had on Thursday contradicted media reports which quoted it as saying the trapped minors were suspected dead on the basis of the foul odour the force's divers had smelt when they had gone inside the mine. It said in a statement that the foul smell could be due to the stagnant water in the mine as pumping had been halted for more than 48 hours. Two NDRF teams are engaged in the search and rescue operation. Rat-hole mining involves digging of narrow tunnels, usually 3-4 feet high, for workers to enter and extract coal. The horizontal tunnels are often termed "rat-holes" as each just about fits one person.

18 high-powered pumps being moved to Meghalaya mining site

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday inaugurated as many as 158 development projects here on the 95th birth anniversary of late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajapayee.

He also laid the foundation stone for 418 development projects, making it to a total of 576 projects worth Rs 161 crore.

Addressing the party members and party workers here, Singh said that this celebration is nothing new to Lucknow since Vajpayee's birth anniversary has been always celebrated in Lucknow.

Vajpayee had served as Member of Parliament from Lucknow. The Union Home Minister laid the foundation of multiple projects to work towards Vajpayee's dream of development of Lucknow.

He asserted that Lucknow is slowly and steadily moving towards acquiring the status and stature that the late Prime Minister had envisioned.

"In Lucknow parliamentary area, development works worth several thousand crores have been started in the last 54 months," Singh said.

He also announced that in February the foundation stone for two more flyovers will be laid. Hailing the 104 km long, 8 lane road stretching across Lucknow, Singh said that this will not only create a solution for the traffic problems in the city but will also increase the property rates in the capital.

He further highlighted that the UP Government is working on Gomti Nagar, Charbagh and Alam Bagh railway stations.

He thanked that party members and workers who worked together for the city and the party.

Several party leaders including UP Deputy Chief Minister Dinesh Sharma, ministers Rita Bahuguna Joshi, Brajesh Pathak, Mahendra Singh, Mohsin Raza, MLA Pankaj Singh, Suresh Srivastava, Neeraj Bora, Union Home Minister`s representative Diwakar Tripathi and several others attended the programme.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday inaugurated as many as 158 development projects here on the 95th birth anniversary of late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajapayee.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday inaugurated as many as 158 development projects here on the 95th birth anniversary of late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajapayee. He also laid the foundation stone for 418 development projects, making it to a total of 576 projects worth Rs 161 crore. Addressing the party members and party workers here, Singh said that this celebration is nothing new to Lucknow since Vajpayee's birth anniversary has been always celebrated in Lucknow. Vajpayee had served as Member of Parliament from Lucknow. The Union Home Minister laid the foundation of multiple projects to work towards Vajpayee's dream of development of Lucknow. He asserted that Lucknow is slowly and steadily moving towards acquiring the status and stature that the late Prime Minister had envisioned. "In Lucknow parliamentary area, development works worth several thousand crores have been started in the last 54 months," Singh said. He also announced that in February the foundation stone for two more flyovers will be laid. Hailing the 104 km long, 8 lane road stretching across Lucknow, Singh said that this will not only create a solution for the traffic problems in the city but will also increase the property rates in the capital. He further highlighted that the UP Government is working on Gomti Nagar, Charbagh and Alam Bagh railway stations. He thanked that party members and workers who worked together for the city and the party. Several party leaders including UP Deputy Chief Minister Dinesh Sharma, ministers Rita Bahuguna Joshi, Brajesh Pathak, Mahendra Singh, Mohsin Raza, MLA Pankaj Singh, Suresh Srivastava, Neeraj Bora, Union Home Minister`s representative Diwakar Tripathi and several others attended the programme.

Rajnath Singh inaugurates over 150 projects in Lucknow

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Sunday said ending terrorist activities was a pre-condition for any dialogue with Pakistan as its "dual" role is unacceptable to India.

"Promoting terrorist activities and entering into a dialogue for peace cannot run together," he said when asked by reporters to explain why India is avoiding any dialogue with Pakistan.

He said either Islamabad should stop aiding terrorist activities or express its commitment against terrorism with an assurance that it would not allow it to grow in Pakistan.

"If it finds difficult to control terrorist activities, why it is not seeking help from its neighbour India?" he asked.

"If a crusade against Taliban can start in Afghanistan with the help of the US, why not commence a similar action in Pakistan? the home minister asked.

On the outcome of election results in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Mizoram, Rajasthan and Telangana, he said, "Prayas to Bhartiya Janta Party ka yahi raha hai ki hame kamyabi mile, milni bhi chahiye yeh vishwas hai, parinam ki pratiksha kijiye (Efforts of BJP has been to win, we are confident of that, wait for the results)".

He disapproved that the election in the five states was a semi-final for the 2019 Lok Sabha election, adding that "final is final".

He refused to comment on the involvement of an army personnel in Bulandshahar incident on the plea that it was a state subject and the Yogi Adityanath government is looking after that.

On the Ram temple issue, he said, "everybody wants a majestic temple of Ram in Ayodhya".&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Terming the culture of India as the best one, Singh said people feel the strength of "spiritual power" during their visit to India.

The minister said, since Lord Ram adopted values, he is worshipped, while Ravan failed to get an inch of that level, as he neglected values, even though he was more equipped with knowledge, wealth and power.&nbsp;

Singh advised the degree recipients to have broad thinking as it would not only prepare a platform for "sukh (pleasure)" to them, but their action would turn welfare-oriented.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Sunday said ending terrorist activities was a pre-condition for any dialogue with Pakistan as its "dual" role is unacceptable to India.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Sunday said ending terrorist activities was a pre-condition for any dialogue with Pakistan as its "dual" role is unacceptable to India. "Promoting terrorist activities and entering into a dialogue for peace cannot run together," he said when asked by reporters to explain why India is avoiding any dialogue with Pakistan. He said either Islamabad should stop aiding terrorist activities or express its commitment against terrorism with an assurance that it would not allow it to grow in Pakistan. "If it finds difficult to control terrorist activities, why it is not seeking help from its neighbour India?" he asked. "If a crusade against Taliban can start in Afghanistan with the help of the US, why not commence a similar action in Pakistan? the home minister asked. On the outcome of election results in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Mizoram, Rajasthan and Telangana, he said, "Prayas to Bhartiya Janta Party ka yahi raha hai ki hame kamyabi mile, milni bhi chahiye yeh vishwas hai, parinam ki pratiksha kijiye (Efforts of BJP has been to win, we are confident of that, wait for the results)". He disapproved that the election in the five states was a semi-final for the 2019 Lok Sabha election, adding that "final is final". He refused to comment on the involvement of an army personnel in Bulandshahar incident on the plea that it was a state subject and the Yogi Adityanath government is looking after that. On the Ram temple issue, he said, "everybody wants a majestic temple of Ram in Ayodhya". Terming the culture of India as the best one, Singh said people feel the strength of "spiritual power" during their visit to India. The minister said, since Lord Ram adopted values, he is worshipped, while Ravan failed to get an inch of that level, as he neglected values, even though he was more equipped with knowledge, wealth and power. Singh advised the degree recipients to have broad thinking as it would not only prepare a platform for "sukh (pleasure)" to them, but their action would turn welfare-oriented.

Ending terrorism pre-condition for dialogue with Pak: Rajnath Singh

Home Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-tdp-alliance-is-unholy-rajnath-singh-in-telangana-180599">Rajnath Singh </a>said Pakistan could seek India’s help if it cannot handle the fight against terrorism alone.

Addressing a press conference here, he said that Jammu and Kashmir was not an issue as it was an integral part of the country. “The issue is of terrorism, and Pakistan can discuss it,” Singh said.

“I want to ask the Pakistani prime minister that if in Afghanistan, a fight can be carried out against terror and Taliban with the help of the US, then, Pakistan can seek help against terrorism from India if it feels that it cannot handle it alone,” he said.

He also accused the Congress of creating a crisis of distrust in politics and claimed there was a difference in their words and deeds.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh said Pakistan could seek India’s help if it cannot handle the fight against terrorism alone. Addressing a press conference here, he said that Jammu and Kashmir was not an issue as it was an integral part of the country.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh said Pakistan could seek India’s help if it cannot handle the fight against terrorism alone. Addressing a press conference here, he said that Jammu and Kashmir was not an issue as it was an integral part of the country. “The issue is of terrorism, and Pakistan can discuss it,” Singh said. “I want to ask the Pakistani prime minister that if in Afghanistan, a fight can be carried out against terror and Taliban with the help of the US, then, Pakistan can seek help against terrorism from India if it feels that it cannot handle it alone,” he said. He also accused the Congress of creating a crisis of distrust in politics and claimed there was a difference in their words and deeds.

Take help from us if you can’t fight terror alone: Rajnath Singh to Pakistan

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said that the Congress-TDP alliance in Telangana is "unholy."&nbsp;Singh's comments came during his address in Warangal.&nbsp;

The minister added that the alliance is not formed for the development of the nation but to stop the BJP and PM Modi. &nbsp;

"The alliance of Congress and TDP is an unholy alliance. These parties have formed this coalition, not for the development of the country rather it is an alliance to stop BJP and Modi," he stated.&nbsp;

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The alliance of Congress and TDP is an unholy alliance. These parties have formed this coalition, not for the development of the country rather it is an alliance to stop BJP and Modi: Home Minister Rajnath Singh in Warangal, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Telangana?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Telangana</a>. (30.11.18) <a href="https://t.co/593o4Hz9Kr">pic.twitter.com/593o4Hz9Kr</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1068638635287871488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-tdp-alliance-is-unholy-rajnath-singh-in-telangana-180599">released its manifesto for poll-bound Telangana</a>, promising farm loan waiver up to Rs two lakh, free laptops to degree students, regulation of liquor sale and free distribution of cows to one lakh people every year.

Alongside free laptops to degree students, the manifesto said girl students from the seventh standard to 10th standard will get free cycles. Girl students of degree and above courses will get 'scooties' (two-wheelers) with 50 per cent subsidy.

It also promised free houses to all eligible poor by 2022. Financial assistance of Rs 5,000 per month would be paid towards rent till the construction of such houses, it said.

Telangana will go to polls on December 7, votes will be counted on December 11.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said that the Congress-TDP alliance in Telangana is "unholy." Singh's comments came during his address in Warangal. The minister added that the alliance is not formed for the development of the nation but to stop the BJP and PM Modi.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said that the Congress-TDP alliance in Telangana is "unholy." Singh's comments came during his address in Warangal. The minister added that the alliance is not formed for the development of the nation but to stop the BJP and PM Modi. "The alliance of Congress and TDP is an unholy alliance. These parties have formed this coalition, not for the development of the country rather it is an alliance to stop BJP and Modi," he stated. The alliance of Congress and TDP is an unholy alliance. These parties have formed this coalition, not for the development of the country rather it is an alliance to stop BJP and Modi: Home Minister Rajnath Singh in Warangal, #Telangana. (30.11.18) pic.twitter.com/593o4Hz9Kr — ANI (@ANI) November 30, 2018 × Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday released its manifesto for poll-bound Telangana, promising farm loan waiver up to Rs two lakh, free laptops to degree students, regulation of liquor sale and free distribution of cows to one lakh people every year. Alongside free laptops to degree students, the manifesto said girl students from the seventh standard to 10th standard will get free cycles. Girl students of degree and above courses will get 'scooties' (two-wheelers) with 50 per cent subsidy. It also promised free houses to all eligible poor by 2022. Financial assistance of Rs 5,000 per month would be paid towards rent till the construction of such houses, it said. Telangana will go to polls on December 7, votes will be counted on December 11.

Congress-TDP alliance is unholy: Rajnath Singh in Telangana 

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Wednesday claimed that the BJP has run the government "comparatively better" than the Congress and blamed the opposition party for a "credibility crisis" in politics after Independence.

Talking to reporters in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, Singh asserted that the country was currently witnessing "acche din" (good days) and it was a matter of perception of how people saw it.

He also defended the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government at the Centre over the Rafale jet deal row.

"Indian economy is the fastest growing economy in the world due to the charismatic work of our prime minister (Narendra Modi). India (people) has accepted that BJP is a political party which runs the government comparatively better than the Congress," Singh told reporters here.

"I said comparatively... No political party is perfect, neither are we, I never made such a claim. All political parties have shortcomings. But this (BJP) is a political party which works better, comparatively," he asserted.

In a stinging attack on the Congress, he accused it of creating a "credibility crisis" in the country, saying there was a difference between the party's words and actions.

"I believe that in the history of independent India, the politics of Congress has created a credibility crisis about country's politicians and politics as a whole. This credibility crisis was created due to the difference between words and deeds (of politicians)," Singh said.

To a question on the Rafale deal controversy, he said, "Rafale is Ra-fail. Dassault CEO has already clarified. One can see the reality of these allegations."

"It was alleged that the contract of Rs 30,000 crore was being allotted to one offset partner (of Dassault). But, the truth is that the contract is meant for all offset partners and not for one," he said.

The government had earlier denied allegations of corruption in the deal.

Asked about the construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya, Singh said, "(I think) You are familiar with the development on this issue. I can only say, wait."

On the BJP's promise of bringing "acche din", he said, "Yahi hain acche din, prashna nazariye ka hai (these are the good days, it is a matter of perception)."

Asked about demonetisation, Singh claimed that the government's decision brought transparency into the economy.

"The generation of black money has been stopped. The black money that existed (at the time demonetisation) reached the banks," he said.

The Union minister also claimed that the petrol and diesel prices were going down as the rates depending on crude oil price in the international market.

He refused to comment on the controversies plaguing the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), saying the matter was sub-judice.

The state is scheduled to go to polls on November 28 and results will be declared on December 11.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Wednesday claimed that the BJP has run the government "comparatively better" than the Congress and blamed the opposition party for a "credibility crisis" in politics after Independence.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Wednesday claimed that the BJP has run the government "comparatively better" than the Congress and blamed the opposition party for a "credibility crisis" in politics after Independence. Talking to reporters in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, Singh asserted that the country was currently witnessing "acche din" (good days) and it was a matter of perception of how people saw it. He also defended the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government at the Centre over the Rafale jet deal row. "Indian economy is the fastest growing economy in the world due to the charismatic work of our prime minister (Narendra Modi). India (people) has accepted that BJP is a political party which runs the government comparatively better than the Congress," Singh told reporters here. "I said comparatively... No political party is perfect, neither are we, I never made such a claim. All political parties have shortcomings. But this (BJP) is a political party which works better, comparatively," he asserted. In a stinging attack on the Congress, he accused it of creating a "credibility crisis" in the country, saying there was a difference between the party's words and actions. "I believe that in the history of independent India, the politics of Congress has created a credibility crisis about country's politicians and politics as a whole. This credibility crisis was created due to the difference between words and deeds (of politicians)," Singh said. To a question on the Rafale deal controversy, he said, "Rafale is Ra-fail. Dassault CEO has already clarified. One can see the reality of these allegations." "It was alleged that the contract of Rs 30,000 crore was being allotted to one offset partner (of Dassault). But, the truth is that the contract is meant for all offset partners and not for one," he said. The government had earlier denied allegations of corruption in the deal. Asked about the construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya, Singh said, "(I think) You are familiar with the development on this issue. I can only say, wait." On the BJP's promise of bringing "acche din", he said, "Yahi hain acche din, prashna nazariye ka hai (these are the good days, it is a matter of perception)." Asked about demonetisation, Singh claimed that the government's decision brought transparency into the economy. "The generation of black money has been stopped. The black money that existed (at the time demonetisation) reached the banks," he said. The Union minister also claimed that the petrol and diesel prices were going down as the rates depending on crude oil price in the international market. He refused to comment on the controversies plaguing the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), saying the matter was sub-judice. The state is scheduled to go to polls on November 28 and results will be declared on December 11.

BJP runs government 'comparatively better' than Congress: Rajnath Singh in Madhya Pradesh

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday expressed shock and anguish over the death of innocent people in a grenade attack in Amritsar, Punjab on Sunday.&nbsp;

''Deeply anguished by the death of innocent people in a grenade attack in Amritsar. My condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones in this attack,'' the home minister was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.

Rajnath also wished a speedy recovery of those injured in the ''reprehensible act of violence''.&nbsp;

The Home Minister said that he spoke to Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh.

''Spoke to the Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh who has apprised me of the situation in the wake of the grenade attack. Strongest possible action will be taken against the perpetrators of this crime,'' he said.&nbsp;

Three persons lost their lives while at least 10 sustained injuries in a grenade attack on a prayer hall brimming with around 200 devotees on the outskirts of the city on Sunday.

The attack took place during a religious gathering of the Nirankari sect at Nirankari Bhavan in Adliwal village near Amritsar's Rajasansi, which is close to the international airport.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday expressed shock and anguish over the death of innocent people in a grenade attack in Amritsar, Punjab on Sunday. ''Deeply anguished by the death of innocent people in a grenade attack in Amritsar.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday expressed shock and anguish over the death of innocent people in a grenade attack in Amritsar, Punjab on Sunday. ''Deeply anguished by the death of innocent people in a grenade attack in Amritsar. My condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones in this attack,'' the home minister was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. Rajnath also wished a speedy recovery of those injured in the ''reprehensible act of violence''. The Home Minister said that he spoke to Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh. ''Spoke to the Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh who has apprised me of the situation in the wake of the grenade attack. Strongest possible action will be taken against the perpetrators of this crime,'' he said. Three persons lost their lives while at least 10 sustained injuries in a grenade attack on a prayer hall brimming with around 200 devotees on the outskirts of the city on Sunday. The attack took place during a religious gathering of the Nirankari sect at Nirankari Bhavan in Adliwal village near Amritsar's Rajasansi, which is close to the international airport.

Amritsar grenade attack: Rajnath Singh condemns 'reprehensible' act of violence

The government on Wednesday constituted a Group of Ministers (GoM) headed by Home Minister Rajnath Singh in order to strengthen the legal and institutional frameworks to deal with and prevent sexual harassment at workplace.

The members of the GoM are Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi.

The GoM will work towards strengthening the legal and institutional frameworks to deal with, and prevent sexual harassment at workplace, a report said.

It will recommend action required for effective implementation of the existing provisions, as well as for strengthening the existing legal and institutional frameworks for addressing issues related to sexual harassment at workplace, the official said.

The GoM has been set up in the wake of #MeToo movement where several women have publicly named people who had harassed them at their workplace.

Former editor M J Akbar had to resign as Minister of State for External Affairs following allegations of sexual harassment against him by former colleagues.&nbsp;

The government on Wednesday constituted a Group of Ministers (GoM) headed by Home Minister Rajnath Singh in order to strengthen the legal and institutional frameworks to deal with and prevent sexual harassment at workplace.

The government on Wednesday constituted a Group of Ministers (GoM) headed by Home Minister Rajnath Singh in order to strengthen the legal and institutional frameworks to deal with and prevent sexual harassment at workplace. The members of the GoM are Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi. The GoM will work towards strengthening the legal and institutional frameworks to deal with, and prevent sexual harassment at workplace, a report said. It will recommend action required for effective implementation of the existing provisions, as well as for strengthening the existing legal and institutional frameworks for addressing issues related to sexual harassment at workplace, the official said. The GoM has been set up in the wake of #MeToo movement where several women have publicly named people who had harassed them at their workplace. Former editor M J Akbar had to resign as Minister of State for External Affairs following allegations of sexual harassment against him by former colleagues.

Rajnath Singh to head GoM to look into sexual harassment at workplace

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