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<p>It is a matter of happiness that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is counting the number of days I have visited Amethi as he is unable to tell the public where the 'missing MP'&nbsp;was for 15 years, said Union Minister Smriti Irani here on Sunday.</p>

<p>"I am happy that Priyanka Vadra is counting the number of times I came to Amethi. Probably she is counting mine because she is unable to tell the public where the missing MP was for 15 years. I request her to provide that information too," Smriti said while talking to ANI.</p>

<p>She also questioned Congress'&nbsp;method of showing love for the nation. "Yasin Malik is charged with the murder of Air Force officials. Yet the statement given by PC Chacko yesterday supporting him should be condemned either by Priyanka or Rahul Gandhi. I want to ask Priyanka Vadra are these your ways of showing nationalism," she said.</p>

<p>Congress spokesperson PC Chacko on Saturday told reporters in New Delhi that "If Pragya Singh Thakur, an accused, can contest an election, and the way Delhi is asking him (Yasin Malik) at gunpoint to surrender, anyone with self-respect will react the way Yasin Malik did."</p>

<p>She also said that Priyanka should take a closer look at the acts of Congress before she gives statements on nationalism. Irani, who lost to Rahul Gandhi in the last Lok Sabha from Amethi, is again facing him here. Amethi will go to polls on May 6. The results will be announced on May 23.&nbsp;</p>


It is a matter of happiness that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is counting the number of days I have visited Amethi as he is unable to tell the public where the 'missing MP' was for 15 years, said Union Minister Smriti Irani here on Sunday.

It is a matter of happiness that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is counting the number of days I have visited Amethi as he is unable to tell the public where the 'missing MP' was for 15 years, said Union Minister Smriti Irani here on Sunday. "I am happy that Priyanka Vadra is counting the number of times I came to Amethi. Probably she is counting mine because she is unable to tell the public where the missing MP was for 15 years. I request her to provide that information too," Smriti said while talking to ANI. She also questioned Congress' method of showing love for the nation. "Yasin Malik is charged with the murder of Air Force officials. Yet the statement given by PC Chacko yesterday supporting him should be condemned either by Priyanka or Rahul Gandhi. I want to ask Priyanka Vadra are these your ways of showing nationalism," she said. Congress spokesperson PC Chacko on Saturday told reporters in New Delhi that "If Pragya Singh Thakur, an accused, can contest an election, and the way Delhi is asking him (Yasin Malik) at gunpoint to surrender, anyone with self-respect will react the way Yasin Malik did." She also said that Priyanka should take a closer look at the acts of Congress before she gives statements on nationalism. Irani, who lost to Rahul Gandhi in the last Lok Sabha from Amethi, is again facing him here. Amethi will go to polls on May 6. The results will be announced on May 23.

Happy that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is counting the days I spent in Amethi: Smriti Irani

<p>The Supreme Court Monday issued a notice to Union minister Smriti Irani in a case pertaining to two cross defamation complaints filed by Congress leader Sanjay Nirupam and the BJP leader against each other.</p>

<p>In one case, the Delhi High Court had quashed the summons issued against Irani in a defamation complaint filed against her by Nirupam.</p>

<p>The high court, however, had dismissed a similar plea of Nirupam seeking to set aside the summons issued against him in a cross defamation complaint filed by Irani.</p>

<p>The high court, on December 19 last year, had said the case against Nirupam will continue.</p>

<p>On Monday, a bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi issued the notice to Irani on two appeals filed by the Congress leader.</p>


The Supreme Court Monday issued a notice to Union minister Smriti Irani in a case pertaining to two cross defamation complaints filed by Congress leader Sanjay Nirupam and the BJP leader against each other.

The Supreme Court Monday issued a notice to Union minister Smriti Irani in a case pertaining to two cross defamation complaints filed by Congress leader Sanjay Nirupam and the BJP leader against each other. In one case, the Delhi High Court had quashed the summons issued against Irani in a defamation complaint filed against her by Nirupam. The high court, however, had dismissed a similar plea of Nirupam seeking to set aside the summons issued against him in a cross defamation complaint filed by Irani. The high court, on December 19 last year, had said the case against Nirupam will continue. On Monday, a bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi issued the notice to Irani on two appeals filed by the Congress leader.

Supreme Court issues notice to Smriti Irani on Nirupam's plea seeking quashing of defamation complaint against him

Rahul Gandhi's sister Priyanka Vadra slammed Smriti Irani, accuses her of lying and called her an Outsider. Watch video to know more.

India Election Watch: Priyanka Vadra takes on Smriti Irani

Watch this segment of India Election Watch for latest updates of India Election as on 22nd April 2019.

India Election Watch; 22nd April 2019

<p>Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra lost her usually collected demeanour and lashed out at "outsider" Smriti Irani stating that the Union Minister had insulted the people of Amethi by distributing shoes there.</p>

<p>"Elections are here and many outsiders have also come here to spread lies that Rahul Gandhi does not visit here. You people know the truth," Priyanka said during an election rally here. "The objectionable thing is that Smriti Irani ji came here and distributed shoes. She thought that she is insulting Rahul ji but she has insulted the people of Amethi. You should teach them that people of Amethi and Rae Bareli respect themselves and will not beg in front&nbsp;of anyone. They should come to you and beg for votes," Priyanka said.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">Union Minister Smriti Irani: Actor main reh chuki hoon toh natak Priyanka ji na hi karein to behtar hai, jahan tak baat un gharib nagrikon ki hai jinke paas pehne ko joota nahi tha,toh kripya karke agar unme thodi bhi sharm ho to khud ja ke dekh lein ki sach kya hai <a href="https://t.co/vwQraaqaVn">pic.twitter.com/vwQraaqaVn</a></p>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1120296292318679041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Congress leader addressing people at a Nukkad Sabha here said "You should understand what is happening in this election, lying, attempting to divert the attention of people and a campaign that is removed from reality. I have been going around Uttar Pradesh East and seeing the suffering of people, small industries have been shut, youth are unemployed, they have stopped development works in Amethi."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Union Min Smriti Irani: Call all the relatives you have,be it from India,from Italy or from any part of the world.People of India will do justice&amp;they have already decided to choose Pradhansevak again,but this time whole Gandhi family will also be given a strong message." <a href="https://t.co/ocp1H1CSHQ">pic.twitter.com/ocp1H1CSHQ</a></p>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1120311060924370944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Speaking in the same vein, Priyanka said, "People of Amethi and Rae Bareli have never begged in front of anyone. Whosoever has come in front of them, have come with respect. My family have realised that people made us. You have given power and love as well. You are the one who make us leaders."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the actor-turned-politician Smriti Irani hit back at Priyanka Gandhi and said, "I have been an actor and it would be better if Priyanka ji stopped her acting. As far as the plight of those poor people who did not have shoes to wear, if she has even a bit of shame she should go and see for herself what the truth is."</p>

<p>BJP has fielded Smriti Irani against Congress president Rahul Gandhi in Amethi. In 2014, Rahul had defeated Irani by a margin of over one lakh votes.</p>

<p>Priyanka also hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi claiming that he has not visited a single village of his constituency.</p>

<p>"Rajiv Gandhi used to visit areas of his constituency. Rahul Gandhi also visits villages. I went to Varanasi, I asked people if the Prime Minister has come there. I learnt that he has not visited a single village in the last five years," she said.</p>

<p>Amethi and Rae Bareli in Uttar Pradesh are scheduled to go to polls in the fourth phase of the Lok Sabha elections on May 6, while Varanasi will witness polling in the last phase on May 19.&nbsp;</p>


Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra lost her usually collected demeanour and lashed out at "outsider" Smriti Irani stating that the Union Minister had insulted the people of Amethi by distributing shoes there.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra lost her usually collected demeanour and lashed out at "outsider" Smriti Irani stating that the Union Minister had insulted the people of Amethi by distributing shoes there. "Elections are here and many outsiders have also come here to spread lies that Rahul Gandhi does not visit here. You people know the truth," Priyanka said during an election rally here. "The objectionable thing is that Smriti Irani ji came here and distributed shoes. She thought that she is insulting Rahul ji but she has insulted the people of Amethi. You should teach them that people of Amethi and Rae Bareli respect themselves and will not beg in front of anyone. They should come to you and beg for votes," Priyanka said. Union Minister Smriti Irani: Actor main reh chuki hoon toh natak Priyanka ji na hi karein to behtar hai, jahan tak baat un gharib nagrikon ki hai jinke paas pehne ko joota nahi tha,toh kripya karke agar unme thodi bhi sharm ho to khud ja ke dekh lein ki sach kya hai pic.twitter.com/vwQraaqaVn — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 22, 2019 × The Congress leader addressing people at a Nukkad Sabha here said "You should understand what is happening in this election, lying, attempting to divert the attention of people and a campaign that is removed from reality. I have been going around Uttar Pradesh East and seeing the suffering of people, small industries have been shut, youth are unemployed, they have stopped development works in Amethi." #WATCH Union Min Smriti Irani: Call all the relatives you have,be it from India,from Italy or from any part of the world.People of India will do justice&they have already decided to choose Pradhansevak again,but this time whole Gandhi family will also be given a strong message." pic.twitter.com/ocp1H1CSHQ — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 22, 2019 × Speaking in the same vein, Priyanka said, "People of Amethi and Rae Bareli have never begged in front of anyone. Whosoever has come in front of them, have come with respect. My family have realised that people made us. You have given power and love as well. You are the one who make us leaders." Meanwhile, the actor-turned-politician Smriti Irani hit back at Priyanka Gandhi and said, "I have been an actor and it would be better if Priyanka ji stopped her acting. As far as the plight of those poor people who did not have shoes to wear, if she has even a bit of shame she should go and see for herself what the truth is." BJP has fielded Smriti Irani against Congress president Rahul Gandhi in Amethi. In 2014, Rahul had defeated Irani by a margin of over one lakh votes. Priyanka also hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi claiming that he has not visited a single village of his constituency. "Rajiv Gandhi used to visit areas of his constituency. Rahul Gandhi also visits villages. I went to Varanasi, I asked people if the Prime Minister has come there. I learnt that he has not visited a single village in the last five years," she said. Amethi and Rae Bareli in Uttar Pradesh are scheduled to go to polls in the fourth phase of the Lok Sabha elections on May 6, while Varanasi will witness polling in the last phase on May 19.

Smriti Irani insulted people of Amethi by distributing shoes: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra

<p>Congress not fielding candidates in all the 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh is a sign of accepting defeat even before the start of the elections, said Union Textiles Minister Smriti Irani on Monday and added that the voters of Amethi should, therefore, side with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to stay on the winning side.</p>

<p>"By fighting in just approximately 20 out of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in UP, Congress leaders have themselves accepted they don't have the strength to fight and win in the state. Why then should you side with the Congress, come and vote for BJP," said Irani at an election rally here.</p>

<p>"For 15 years the Amethi MP has stayed away from his constituency, neither has he spoken on behalf of Amethi in the Parliament. Had it not been necessary to file nomination papers and organise election campaigns, he would never have set foot in this area. Absent from the constituency, silent in the Parliament, of what use is such a leader," she asked.</p>

<p>The BJP leader also promised that if she wins from Amethi, she will shift base to the region to stay in touch and help the residents of her electorate, unlike Congress president Rahul Gandhi.</p>

<p>"On May 6 if you come out of your houses and vote in favour of BJP, I promise you I will be here on May 24 accepting your wishes. I will also take up a house in Amethi and stay in your midst for the years to come," she said.</p>

<p>Amethi will see polling on May 6 in the fifth phase of Lok Sabha elections. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;</p>


Congress not fielding candidates in all the 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh is a sign of accepting defeat even before the start of the elections, said Union Textiles Minister Smriti Irani on Monday and added that the voters of Amethi should, therefore, side with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to stay on the winning side.

Congress not fielding candidates in all the 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh is a sign of accepting defeat even before the start of the elections, said Union Textiles Minister Smriti Irani on Monday and added that the voters of Amethi should, therefore, side with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to stay on the winning side. "By fighting in just approximately 20 out of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in UP, Congress leaders have themselves accepted they don't have the strength to fight and win in the state. Why then should you side with the Congress, come and vote for BJP," said Irani at an election rally here. "For 15 years the Amethi MP has stayed away from his constituency, neither has he spoken on behalf of Amethi in the Parliament. Had it not been necessary to file nomination papers and organise election campaigns, he would never have set foot in this area. Absent from the constituency, silent in the Parliament, of what use is such a leader," she asked. The BJP leader also promised that if she wins from Amethi, she will shift base to the region to stay in touch and help the residents of her electorate, unlike Congress president Rahul Gandhi. "On May 6 if you come out of your houses and vote in favour of BJP, I promise you I will be here on May 24 accepting your wishes. I will also take up a house in Amethi and stay in your midst for the years to come," she said. Amethi will see polling on May 6 in the fifth phase of Lok Sabha elections. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Not fighting on all seats in UP sign of Congress accepting defeat: Smriti Irani

Watch this segment of India Election Watch for latest updates of India Election as on 12th April, 2019.

India Election Watch; 12th April 2019

<p>Union minister and BJP candidate from Amethi Lok Sabha seat Smriti Irani Thursday submitted to the Election Commission that she did not complete her graduation from Delhi University.</p>

<p>In her affidavit filed during her nomination, Irani, who is contesting against Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, said she passed secondary school examination in 1991 and senior secondary school examination in 1993.</p>

<p>She has said she did not complete her Bachelor of Commerce (Part-I), a three-year degree course from Delhi University's School of Open Learning in 1994.</p>

<p>In her affidavit for 2014 polls, she had reportedly said she graduated from the university in 1994, triggering a row over the veracity of her claim, with opposition parties alleging she was not a graduate.</p>

<p>This year, she has declared assets worth over Rs 4.71 crore.</p>

<p>According to the affidavit, Irani has declared movable property worth over Rs 1.75 crore.</p>

<p>Her immovable assets are worth Rs 2.96 crore, which include an agricultural land valued at over Rs 1.45 crore and a residential building of Rs 1.50 crore.</p>

<p>In the movable category, she had cash in hand till March 31 totalling about Rs 6.24 lakh besides over Rs 89 lakh in bank accounts.</p>

<p>She also has over Rs 18 lakh in NSS and postal savings insurance and another Rs 1.05 lakh in other investments.</p>

<p>Irani has vehicles valued at Rs 13.14 lakh and jewellery worth Rs 21 lakh.</p>

<p>There is no FIR pending against her and she has not taken any loan.</p>

<p>Her husband Zubin has movable property of more than Rs 1.69 crore and immovable property worth Rs 2.97 crore.&nbsp;</p>


Union minister and BJP candidate from Amethi Lok Sabha seat Smriti Irani Thursday submitted to the Election Commission that she did not complete her graduation from Delhi University.

Union minister and BJP candidate from Amethi Lok Sabha seat Smriti Irani Thursday submitted to the Election Commission that she did not complete her graduation from Delhi University. In her affidavit filed during her nomination, Irani, who is contesting against Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, said she passed secondary school examination in 1991 and senior secondary school examination in 1993. She has said she did not complete her Bachelor of Commerce (Part-I), a three-year degree course from Delhi University's School of Open Learning in 1994. In her affidavit for 2014 polls, she had reportedly said she graduated from the university in 1994, triggering a row over the veracity of her claim, with opposition parties alleging she was not a graduate. This year, she has declared assets worth over Rs 4.71 crore. According to the affidavit, Irani has declared movable property worth over Rs 1.75 crore. Her immovable assets are worth Rs 2.96 crore, which include an agricultural land valued at over Rs 1.45 crore and a residential building of Rs 1.50 crore. In the movable category, she had cash in hand till March 31 totalling about Rs 6.24 lakh besides over Rs 89 lakh in bank accounts. She also has over Rs 18 lakh in NSS and postal savings insurance and another Rs 1.05 lakh in other investments. Irani has vehicles valued at Rs 13.14 lakh and jewellery worth Rs 21 lakh. There is no FIR pending against her and she has not taken any loan. Her husband Zubin has movable property of more than Rs 1.69 crore and immovable property worth Rs 2.97 crore.

In election affidavit, Smriti Irani says 'not graduate'

<p>Union Minister and BJP leader Smriti Irani on Thursday filed her nomination from Amethi parliamentary constituency in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Irani is fighting the Lok Sabha against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/laser-pointed-at-rahul-gandhis-head-7-times-congress-complains-to-home-ministry-citing-security-breach-in-amethi-209537">Congress President Rahul Gandhi</a>, &nbsp;who has been a three-time Member of Parliament from Amethi.</p>

<p>Gandhi had&nbsp;filed the nomination from Amethi on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Ahead of filing the nomination, Smriti Irani had performed 'puja' along with her husband&nbsp;Zubin Irani.</p>

<p>Polling will be held in Amethi on May 6 during the fifth phase of the general elections.</p>

<p>In the 2014 general elections, Rahul Gandhi had defeated Smriti Irani by a margin of around one lakh votes.</p>

<p>The seven-phase Lok Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh started today and will end on May 19.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Counting of votes will be held on May 23.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Union Minister and BJP leader Smriti Irani on Thursday filed her nomination from Amethi parliamentary constituency in Uttar Pradesh. Irani is fighting the Lok Sabha against Congress President Rahul Gandhi, who has been a three-time Member of Parliament from Amethi.

Union Minister and BJP leader Smriti Irani on Thursday filed her nomination from Amethi parliamentary constituency in Uttar Pradesh. Irani is fighting the Lok Sabha against Congress President Rahul Gandhi, who has been a three-time Member of Parliament from Amethi. Gandhi had filed the nomination from Amethi on Wednesday. Ahead of filing the nomination, Smriti Irani had performed 'puja' along with her husband Zubin Irani. Polling will be held in Amethi on May 6 during the fifth phase of the general elections. In the 2014 general elections, Rahul Gandhi had defeated Smriti Irani by a margin of around one lakh votes. The seven-phase Lok Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh started today and will end on May 19. Counting of votes will be held on May 23. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls 2019: BJP leader Smriti Irani files nomination from Amethi

<p>BJP leader and Union Minister Smriti Irani on Saturday asserted that farmers have understood the "injustice" done to them over the years by the "naamdar" Congress government.</p>

<p>Addressing a public meeting in Salon block here, she said, "Over the years, people of this block here have understood the injustice done to them by the 'naamdar' (dynast) government and now they are giving chance to our 'kaamdar'&nbsp;Bharatiya Janata Party."</p>

<p>"For the first time, you have a roof over your head and toilets in your homes. This would not have been possible if it were not for the son of a poor mother itself," she said, referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.</p>

<p>Urging people to vote for the BJP, Irani said, "People must vote for the son a poor mother, who has deposited Rs 6,000 in your bank accounts under the PM-Kisan scheme and supplied LPG cylinders to your houses under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana."</p>

<p>Smriti Irani is on a two-day visit to Amethi from where she is slated to contest elections. Rahul Gandhi has represented Amethi since 2004.</p>

<p>In the ensuing Lok Sabha elections, he will be facing a challenge in Amethi from Irani.</p>

<p>The seven-phase elections in the country are slated to begin on April 11 and will go on till May 19.</p>

<p>Counting of votes will be held on May 23. There are 80 Lok Sabha seats at stake in Uttar Pradesh, polling for which will be held in all seven phases.&nbsp;</p>


BJP leader and Union Minister Smriti Irani on Saturday asserted that farmers have understood the "injustice" done to them over the years by the "naamdar" Congress government.

BJP leader and Union Minister Smriti Irani on Saturday asserted that farmers have understood the "injustice" done to them over the years by the "naamdar" Congress government. Addressing a public meeting in Salon block here, she said, "Over the years, people of this block here have understood the injustice done to them by the 'naamdar' (dynast) government and now they are giving chance to our 'kaamdar' Bharatiya Janata Party." "For the first time, you have a roof over your head and toilets in your homes. This would not have been possible if it were not for the son of a poor mother itself," she said, referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Urging people to vote for the BJP, Irani said, "People must vote for the son a poor mother, who has deposited Rs 6,000 in your bank accounts under the PM-Kisan scheme and supplied LPG cylinders to your houses under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana." Smriti Irani is on a two-day visit to Amethi from where she is slated to contest elections. Rahul Gandhi has represented Amethi since 2004. In the ensuing Lok Sabha elections, he will be facing a challenge in Amethi from Irani. The seven-phase elections in the country are slated to begin on April 11 and will go on till May 19. Counting of votes will be held on May 23. There are 80 Lok Sabha seats at stake in Uttar Pradesh, polling for which will be held in all seven phases.

Farmers have understood 'injustice' done to them by 'naamdar' government: Smriti Irani

<p>Union Minister and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/irani-mostly-angry-trying-to-copy-amitabh-bachchan-but-always-ends-up-being-villain-surjewala-208051">BJP Lok Sabha candidate from Amethi, Smriti Irani</a> on Friday said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-love-narendra-modi-no-anger-against-him-rahul-gandhi-208114">Congress president Rahul Gandhi</a> is supporting the anti-national elements who want to break India.</p>

<p>"Yesterday, Rahul Gandhi went with anti-Bharat forces to file his nomination. Every time he reveals his real motive that he is not with Hindustan but with those elements who want to break Hindustan," said Smriti Irani, while talking to ANI at Jagdishpur in Amethi.</p>

<p>"The people in the national capital have already heard how he stood in support of 'Bharat-tere-tukde-hoge' (India will be ripped apart) slogan. Also, the recently released manifesto of Congress under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi has tried to defame the Army and supported slogans like 'bharat-tere-tukde-hoge' ", said Smriti Irani.</p>

<p>She also alleged that Rahul colluded with scamsters for financial gains.</p>

<p>"He has to give answer to the nation why he stood with everyone who looted the nation. Newspaper reports say that Rahul Gandhi's name came up in AgustaWestland Scam, earlier also his name surfaced in land scam cases and he has benefitted himself in monetary terms," she said.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;Congress&nbsp;manifesto released on Tuesday promised significant changes in the laws, like quashing of the&nbsp;Sedition&nbsp;law and amendment to the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA).</p>

<p>The manifesto proposed to decriminalise laws that are essentially directed against civil violations and can be subjected to civil penalties. The laws include the sedition law and defamation.</p>


Union Minister and BJP Lok Sabha candidate from Amethi, Smriti Irani on Friday said that Congress president Rahul Gandhi is supporting the anti-national elements who want to break India.

Union Minister and BJP Lok Sabha candidate from Amethi, Smriti Irani on Friday said that Congress president Rahul Gandhi is supporting the anti-national elements who want to break India. "Yesterday, Rahul Gandhi went with anti-Bharat forces to file his nomination. Every time he reveals his real motive that he is not with Hindustan but with those elements who want to break Hindustan," said Smriti Irani, while talking to ANI at Jagdishpur in Amethi. "The people in the national capital have already heard how he stood in support of 'Bharat-tere-tukde-hoge' (India will be ripped apart) slogan. Also, the recently released manifesto of Congress under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi has tried to defame the Army and supported slogans like 'bharat-tere-tukde-hoge' ", said Smriti Irani. She also alleged that Rahul colluded with scamsters for financial gains. "He has to give answer to the nation why he stood with everyone who looted the nation. Newspaper reports say that Rahul Gandhi's name came up in AgustaWestland Scam, earlier also his name surfaced in land scam cases and he has benefitted himself in monetary terms," she said. The Congress manifesto released on Tuesday promised significant changes in the laws, like quashing of the Sedition law and amendment to the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA). The manifesto proposed to decriminalise laws that are essentially directed against civil violations and can be subjected to civil penalties. The laws include the sedition law and defamation.

Smriti Irani accuses Rahul Gandhi of supporting anti-national elements

<p>The Congress Thursday hit out at Union Minister Smriti Irani for her attack on Rahul Gandhi, saying she was mostly angry and trying to copy actor Amitabh Bachchan but ends up being a villain as she gears up to face another defeat in Amethi.</p>

<p>Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said the people of Amethi will ensure her "decisive defeat" and will show her what "temperate behaviour is and what respect for the opponent is".</p>

<p>"I can understand the scepticism and also the constant fear that prevails in the mind of Smriti Irani ji. She is mostly angry, trying to copy Amitabh Bachchan but she always ends up being the villain in the story. She is getting ready for her third successive defeat," he said.</p>

<p>"We will defeat her with the blessings of the people of Amethi, but we will always respect her as an opponent," Surjewala said.</p>

<p>The Congress leader also took a swipe at her saying despite her third defeat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will give her a Rajya Sabha seat and she should not be worried, "for she has never won even a panchayat election in her whole life".</p>

<p>On her first visit to Amethi, Rahul Gandhi's parliamentary constituency, after the Lok Sabha elections were announced, Irani attacked the Congress president, saying his decision to contest from Wayanad in Kerala was an 'insult' to Amethi.</p>

<p>The 48-year-old Congress chief is contesting from Kerala in addition to his traditional stronghold Amethi, where he is pitted against the Union textile minister.</p>

<p>Terming herself 'didi' (elder sister), Irani told a gathering in Parsadepur in Amethi, "This is a coincidence, a sign from God that 'didi' arrived here and the missing MP reached Kerala. I have come to seek (people's) blessings and he rejected the blessings."&nbsp;</p>


The Congress Thursday hit out at Union Minister Smriti Irani for her attack on Rahul Gandhi, saying she was mostly angry and trying to copy actor Amitabh Bachchan but ends up being a villain as she gears up to face another defeat in Amethi.

The Congress Thursday hit out at Union Minister Smriti Irani for her attack on Rahul Gandhi, saying she was mostly angry and trying to copy actor Amitabh Bachchan but ends up being a villain as she gears up to face another defeat in Amethi. Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said the people of Amethi will ensure her "decisive defeat" and will show her what "temperate behaviour is and what respect for the opponent is". "I can understand the scepticism and also the constant fear that prevails in the mind of Smriti Irani ji. She is mostly angry, trying to copy Amitabh Bachchan but she always ends up being the villain in the story. She is getting ready for her third successive defeat," he said. "We will defeat her with the blessings of the people of Amethi, but we will always respect her as an opponent," Surjewala said. The Congress leader also took a swipe at her saying despite her third defeat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will give her a Rajya Sabha seat and she should not be worried, "for she has never won even a panchayat election in her whole life". On her first visit to Amethi, Rahul Gandhi's parliamentary constituency, after the Lok Sabha elections were announced, Irani attacked the Congress president, saying his decision to contest from Wayanad in Kerala was an 'insult' to Amethi. The 48-year-old Congress chief is contesting from Kerala in addition to his traditional stronghold Amethi, where he is pitted against the Union textile minister. Terming herself 'didi' (elder sister), Irani told a gathering in Parsadepur in Amethi, "This is a coincidence, a sign from God that 'didi' arrived here and the missing MP reached Kerala. I have come to seek (people's) blessings and he rejected the blessings."

Irani mostly angry, trying to copy Amitabh Bachchan but always ends up being villain: Surjewala

IEW: Smriti Irani attacks Congress president, says Rahul Gandhi did nothing for Amethi

<p>In this year's Lok Sabha elections, some key political battles will determine the fates of many political bigwigs. Among these is the battle royale in Amethi, a small town but holds big political relevance.</p>

<p>Amethi has been the bastion and Lok Sabha constituency of Congress president Rahul Gandhi since 2004. However, his victory margin suffered a major blow when the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) fielded Smriti Irani to take on the Gandhi scion in the 2014 Lok Sabha election from the turf of Nehru-Gandhi family in Uttar Pradesh.</p>

<p>Rahul Gandhi has won three consecutive Lok Sabha elections from Amethi in 2004, 2009 and 2014. While his victory margin in 2004 and 2007 were 2,90,853 and 3,70,198, respectively, it was merely 1,07,903 against Smriti Irani in 2014 Lok Sabha elections, when the BJP was riding on Narendra Modi wave. The close fight showed that Smriti Irani had managed to corner Rahul Gandhi and delivered some crunching blows.</p>

<p>And this year too, the BJP has fielded Amriti Irani from Amethi to take on Rahul Gandhi.</p>

<p>Though Smriti Irani could not win the elections, she made a promise to people of Amethi that she would not turn her back. And since then, the Union minister has been launching a slew of projects and schemes in a bid to turn the fortunes of the people hailing from the Gandhi bastion.</p>

<p>The actress-turned-politician has also been making several trips to Amethi. During one of her visits, in November 2018, Smriti had inaugurated and laid foundation stones of projects of various schemes worth Rs 77 crore. And not just this, the Union minister has promised that by 2022, every family in Amethi will have a house and each household will have electricity.</p>

<p>The Congress, meanwhile, announced that Rahul Gandhi will also contest from Wayanad in Kerala. The announcement gave ammunition to BJP who accused Rahul of running away because he has not fulfilled the promises he made to the people of Amethi. But the Congress president hit back claiming that people in South India "feel hostility" from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said he decided to contest from Wayanad in Kerala to send out the message that he stands with them.</p>

<p>Wayanad district is in the north eastern part of Kerala and houses various tribal groups of the state. The area was badly affected due to last year's floods. The Congress is hoping to further consolidate its position this time in Kerala.</p>

<p>Top Congress leaders have contested from the South earlier as well.</p>

<p>The 2014 Lok Sabha election witnessed a fierce contest in Amethi between Smriti Irani and Rahul Gandhi. And with the BJP deciding to retain her candidature in 2019 as well, it will certainly be one of the most dramatic battles to be fought during the Lok Sabha election.</p>


In this year's Lok Sabha elections, some key political battles will determine the fates of many political bigwigs. Among these is the battle royale in Amethi, a small town but holds big political relevance.

In this year's Lok Sabha elections, some key political battles will determine the fates of many political bigwigs. Among these is the battle royale in Amethi, a small town but holds big political relevance. Amethi has been the bastion and Lok Sabha constituency of Congress president Rahul Gandhi since 2004. However, his victory margin suffered a major blow when the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) fielded Smriti Irani to take on the Gandhi scion in the 2014 Lok Sabha election from the turf of Nehru-Gandhi family in Uttar Pradesh. Rahul Gandhi has won three consecutive Lok Sabha elections from Amethi in 2004, 2009 and 2014. While his victory margin in 2004 and 2007 were 2,90,853 and 3,70,198, respectively, it was merely 1,07,903 against Smriti Irani in 2014 Lok Sabha elections, when the BJP was riding on Narendra Modi wave. The close fight showed that Smriti Irani had managed to corner Rahul Gandhi and delivered some crunching blows. And this year too, the BJP has fielded Amriti Irani from Amethi to take on Rahul Gandhi. Though Smriti Irani could not win the elections, she made a promise to people of Amethi that she would not turn her back. And since then, the Union minister has been launching a slew of projects and schemes in a bid to turn the fortunes of the people hailing from the Gandhi bastion. The actress-turned-politician has also been making several trips to Amethi. During one of her visits, in November 2018, Smriti had inaugurated and laid foundation stones of projects of various schemes worth Rs 77 crore. And not just this, the Union minister has promised that by 2022, every family in Amethi will have a house and each household will have electricity. The Congress, meanwhile, announced that Rahul Gandhi will also contest from Wayanad in Kerala. The announcement gave ammunition to BJP who accused Rahul of running away because he has not fulfilled the promises he made to the people of Amethi. But the Congress president hit back claiming that people in South India "feel hostility" from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said he decided to contest from Wayanad in Kerala to send out the message that he stands with them. Wayanad district is in the north eastern part of Kerala and houses various tribal groups of the state. The area was badly affected due to last year's floods. The Congress is hoping to further consolidate its position this time in Kerala. Top Congress leaders have contested from the South earlier as well. The 2014 Lok Sabha election witnessed a fierce contest in Amethi between Smriti Irani and Rahul Gandhi. And with the BJP deciding to retain her candidature in 2019 as well, it will certainly be one of the most dramatic battles to be fought during the Lok Sabha election.

Amethi's battle royale: Smriti Irani to take on Rahul Gandhi again

<p>Union Minister for Textiles Smriti Irani said on Monday that she is confident the BJP will win the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and PM Narendra Modi will return to power.</p>

<p>Iran was speaking at Zee News's '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-will-remain-out-of-power-for-at-least-5-years-says-amit-shah-207273">India Ka DNA</a>' conclave in New Delhi.</p>

<p>On being asked whether there is a Modi "<em>lehar</em>"&nbsp;(wave) across the country, Irani answered, "Why is Congress president fighting from two seats if there is no Modi wave? His candidature from two seats proves that there is Modi <em>lehar</em>.”</p>

<p>Irani, who is contesting against Rahul Gandhi from the Amethi parliamentary constituency in the upcoming election, said the "BJP is contesting from Amethi and I am just a representative. My fight against Rahul Gandhi is not personal. The fight is against an ideology, corruption and dynasty."</p>

<p>Irani said her "biggest achievement" will be when on May 23 Rahul Gandhi loses from Amethi. "Modi will once again become the pradhan sewak on May 23," she added.</p>

<p>However, the Congress party’s vote share was reduced to 46 per cent in 2014 as against the earlier figures of 71 per cent and 66 per cent in the 2009 and 2004 elections, respectively. The BJP, whose vote share in Amethi remained in the single digits in 2004, garnered 37 per cent of the votes cast in 2014.</p>


Union Minister for Textiles Smriti Irani said on Monday that she is confident the BJP will win the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and PM Narendra Modi will return to power.

Union Minister for Textiles Smriti Irani said on Monday that she is confident the BJP will win the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and PM Narendra Modi will return to power. Iran was speaking at Zee News's 'India Ka DNA' conclave in New Delhi. On being asked whether there is a Modi "lehar" (wave) across the country, Irani answered, "Why is Congress president fighting from two seats if there is no Modi wave? His candidature from two seats proves that there is Modi lehar.” Irani, who is contesting against Rahul Gandhi from the Amethi parliamentary constituency in the upcoming election, said the "BJP is contesting from Amethi and I am just a representative. My fight against Rahul Gandhi is not personal. The fight is against an ideology, corruption and dynasty." Irani said her "biggest achievement" will be when on May 23 Rahul Gandhi loses from Amethi. "Modi will once again become the pradhan sewak on May 23," she added. However, the Congress party’s vote share was reduced to 46 per cent in 2014 as against the earlier figures of 71 per cent and 66 per cent in the 2009 and 2004 elections, respectively. The BJP, whose vote share in Amethi remained in the single digits in 2004, garnered 37 per cent of the votes cast in 2014.

Fighting against dynasty and corruption in Amethi: Smriti Irani at 'India ka DNA' conclave

<p>Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday that in three terms as a member of parliament from Amethi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi has nothing done for his constituency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sitharaman made her comments at Zee News's '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-will-remain-out-of-power-for-at-least-5-years-says-amit-shah-207273">India ka DNA</a>' conclave in Delhi. She was in conversation with Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"Amethi is so backward," she said. Nothing has been done for it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Smriti Irani, despite losing, has done something for Amethi," Sitharaman added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Irani, the union minister for textiles, had lost to Rahul in 2014. She will fight him again from there in 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sitharaman added that Rahul had asked no questions about Amethi in parliament in his three terms as MP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sitharaman went on to say that it was because of this — the lack of development in Amethi — that Rahul had chosen to also fight the Lok Sabha polls from Wayanad in Kerala.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He's gone there for "safety", she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chaudhary reminder her at that point that "over 50%" of Wayanad's population is made up of minorities.&nbsp;</p>


Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday that in three terms as a member of parliament from Amethi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi has nothing done for his constituency.

Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday that in three terms as a member of parliament from Amethi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi has nothing done for his constituency. Sitharaman made her comments at Zee News's 'India ka DNA' conclave in Delhi. She was in conversation with Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary. "Amethi is so backward," she said. Nothing has been done for it. "Smriti Irani, despite losing, has done something for Amethi," Sitharaman added. Irani, the union minister for textiles, had lost to Rahul in 2014. She will fight him again from there in 2019. Sitharaman added that Rahul had asked no questions about Amethi in parliament in his three terms as MP. Sitharaman went on to say that it was because of this — the lack of development in Amethi — that Rahul had chosen to also fight the Lok Sabha polls from Wayanad in Kerala. He's gone there for "safety", she said. Chaudhary reminder her at that point that "over 50%" of Wayanad's population is made up of minorities.

In 3 terms as MP, Rahul Gandhi has done nothing for Amethi: Nirmala Sitharaman at 'India ka DNA' conclave

<p>Amid a row over the entry of women of menstrual age into Sabarimala temple, Union Minister Smriti Irani said Friday that religious practices should be "respected" and anyone breaching them just to "make headlines" would do a great disservice to the country's diversity.</p>

<p>She said this during an event in Delhi University campus in response to a question from a student on Irani's recent comments on the issue where she said that the right to pray did not mean the right to desecrate.</p>

<p>"I speak from personal experience. And, I said that publicly when I made that comment..I am married to a Zoroastrian, i.E., a Parsi, and by law, I am not allowed (to enter fire temple). And, by law means not by the Constitution but by laws that govern that particular religious practice," she said.</p>

<p>"Irrespective of how empowered I am, I am not allowed to enter a fire temple," Irani told a gathering of students at a business conclave event at Shri Ram College of Commerce here.</p>

<p>The textile minister said her earlier comments on the issue was to tell that there are religious practices across different communities.</p>

<p>"I have not gone to the Supreme Court, to tell Supreme Court to give me the power to barge into a fire temple, because I respect the religious beliefs of the community that I am associated with.</p>

<p>"That community says, I will not have access to a fire temple. I have to stand on the road when my children are inside, praying," she said.</p>

<p>She was asked why should there be a blanket restriction on women's entry to the Lord Ayyappa Temple in Sabarimala, over objections from certain quarters.</p>

<p>"It is incumbent upon you to respect that religious practice because the Constitution gives us rights to be free, but it also impinges upon us responsibilities towards fellow citizens," she said.</p>

<p>Irani said there are "many temples" across the country, where "men are not allowed".</p>

<p>There are many churches, many mosques where restrictions are given for religious practices to be undertaken, she said.</p>

<p>"As individuals, it is our responsibility, given the diverse nature of communities in our country, to respect those tenets, and those practices.</p>

<p>"Do we breach practices only because we seek to make headlines or do we talk about only and only matters of faith. And, that is where my comments came from," she said.</p>

<p>"That if I breach somebody's religious practice only because my face will be in the newspaper, then I do great disservice to the diversity of India," Irani said.</p>

<p>On September 28 last year, a five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court, headed by then Chief Justice Dipak Misra, lifted the ban on entry of women of menstrual age into the shrine.</p>

<p>Amid protests against the Supreme Court order opening the temple to women of all ages, Irani had in October said that the right to pray did not mean the right to desecrate.</p>

<p>"I am nobody to speak against the Supreme Court verdict as I am a serving cabinet minister. But just plain common sense is that would you carry a napkin seeped with menstrual blood and walk into a friend's house. You would not," she had said then, adding, "And would you think it is respectful to do the same when you walk into the house of God? That is the difference. I have the right to pray, but no right to desecrate. That is the difference that we need to recognise and respect."</p>

<p>Besides, the minister was asked about the allegation that the BJP-led government hid important unemployment statistics which purportedly led to the resignation of key people in the National Statistical Commission.</p>

<p>"I am happy that you asked this question because it gives me a sense of the distortion that is being done amongst people with regards to...Fake news," Irani said in response.</p>

<p>The minister referred to initiatives such as the Rs 6,000-crore package to apparel manufacturers, 1.3 crore homes built by the present government, 1.7 crore capital assets built across the country by the present government through MNREGA and plan of building 1 lakh well-ness centres across the country to counter the lack of job creation narrative.</p>

<p>"If you look at the figures, they speak for themselves...," Irani said.</p>

<p>She claimed that before the present BJP-led government assumed, rural job guarantee scheme MNREGA was used so that doles could be given out and no capital assets could be built for the country.</p>

<p>"We insisted that you build capital assets and as compared to the previous government where only 20 lakh such assets were made we ensured that 1.7 crore capital assets are built by those very fellow citizens who were part of a pre-existing opportunity," said the minister.</p>


Amid a row over the entry of women of menstrual age into Sabarimala temple, Union Minister Smriti Irani said Friday that religious practices should be "respected" and anyone breaching them just to "make headlines" would do a great disservice to the country's diversity.

Amid a row over the entry of women of menstrual age into Sabarimala temple, Union Minister Smriti Irani said Friday that religious practices should be "respected" and anyone breaching them just to "make headlines" would do a great disservice to the country's diversity. She said this during an event in Delhi University campus in response to a question from a student on Irani's recent comments on the issue where she said that the right to pray did not mean the right to desecrate. "I speak from personal experience. And, I said that publicly when I made that comment..I am married to a Zoroastrian, i.E., a Parsi, and by law, I am not allowed (to enter fire temple). And, by law means not by the Constitution but by laws that govern that particular religious practice," she said. "Irrespective of how empowered I am, I am not allowed to enter a fire temple," Irani told a gathering of students at a business conclave event at Shri Ram College of Commerce here. The textile minister said her earlier comments on the issue was to tell that there are religious practices across different communities. "I have not gone to the Supreme Court, to tell Supreme Court to give me the power to barge into a fire temple, because I respect the religious beliefs of the community that I am associated with. "That community says, I will not have access to a fire temple. I have to stand on the road when my children are inside, praying," she said. She was asked why should there be a blanket restriction on women's entry to the Lord Ayyappa Temple in Sabarimala, over objections from certain quarters. "It is incumbent upon you to respect that religious practice because the Constitution gives us rights to be free, but it also impinges upon us responsibilities towards fellow citizens," she said. Irani said there are "many temples" across the country, where "men are not allowed". There are many churches, many mosques where restrictions are given for religious practices to be undertaken, she said. "As individuals, it is our responsibility, given the diverse nature of communities in our country, to respect those tenets, and those practices. "Do we breach practices only because we seek to make headlines or do we talk about only and only matters of faith. And, that is where my comments came from," she said. "That if I breach somebody's religious practice only because my face will be in the newspaper, then I do great disservice to the diversity of India," Irani said. On September 28 last year, a five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court, headed by then Chief Justice Dipak Misra, lifted the ban on entry of women of menstrual age into the shrine. Amid protests against the Supreme Court order opening the temple to women of all ages, Irani had in October said that the right to pray did not mean the right to desecrate. "I am nobody to speak against the Supreme Court verdict as I am a serving cabinet minister. But just plain common sense is that would you carry a napkin seeped with menstrual blood and walk into a friend's house. You would not," she had said then, adding, "And would you think it is respectful to do the same when you walk into the house of God? That is the difference. I have the right to pray, but no right to desecrate. That is the difference that we need to recognise and respect." Besides, the minister was asked about the allegation that the BJP-led government hid important unemployment statistics which purportedly led to the resignation of key people in the National Statistical Commission. "I am happy that you asked this question because it gives me a sense of the distortion that is being done amongst people with regards to...Fake news," Irani said in response. The minister referred to initiatives such as the Rs 6,000-crore package to apparel manufacturers, 1.3 crore homes built by the present government, 1.7 crore capital assets built across the country by the present government through MNREGA and plan of building 1 lakh well-ness centres across the country to counter the lack of job creation narrative. "If you look at the figures, they speak for themselves...," Irani said. She claimed that before the present BJP-led government assumed, rural job guarantee scheme MNREGA was used so that doles could be given out and no capital assets could be built for the country. "We insisted that you build capital assets and as compared to the previous government where only 20 lakh such assets were made we ensured that 1.7 crore capital assets are built by those very fellow citizens who were part of a pre-existing opportunity," said the minister.

Religious practices should be 'respected': Smriti Irani on Sabarimala row

<p>Union Minister of Textiles Smriti Irani on Sunday said that she would stay in politics for long, however, she will quit politics the day Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hang his boots.</p>

<p>Speaking at the Words Count Festival here in a discussion titled `Scripting Her Story, From Star to Star Campaigner`, Irani said: "I will never become the prime minister.I take pride in the fact that I got an opportunity to work with charismatic leaders like late Atal Bihari Bajpayee ji and Modi ji."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The day `pradhan sevak` Narendra Modi ji decides to retire, I will also leave Indian politics," she added. "People have started presuming that Modi ji won`t be there for long, but I can assure you that he is going to stay here for many years," Irani said when asked whether the BJP will come in power once again in 2019.</p>

<p>The Union Minister further said that whether she would contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls from Amethi against Congress president Rahul Gandhi or not, will be decided by BJP president Amit Shah, adding that "People were not able to recognise me in Amethi in 2014 but now they know who I am." Irani fought against Rahul in the 2014 general elections from Amethi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking about the menace of trolling on social media platforms, Irani asserted that she had been trolled not only by celebrated journalists and politicians but also by "anonymous denizens".</p>

<p>The Union Minister further said that she admires Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj and Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan."Without any additional support, they both have made a difference in Indian politics. They truly inspire me," she added.&nbsp;</p>


Union Minister of Textiles Smriti Irani on Sunday said that she would stay in politics for long, however, she will quit politics the day Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hang his boots.

Union Minister of Textiles Smriti Irani on Sunday said that she would stay in politics for long, however, she will quit politics the day Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hang his boots. Speaking at the Words Count Festival here in a discussion titled `Scripting Her Story, From Star to Star Campaigner`, Irani said: "I will never become the prime minister.I take pride in the fact that I got an opportunity to work with charismatic leaders like late Atal Bihari Bajpayee ji and Modi ji." "The day `pradhan sevak` Narendra Modi ji decides to retire, I will also leave Indian politics," she added. "People have started presuming that Modi ji won`t be there for long, but I can assure you that he is going to stay here for many years," Irani said when asked whether the BJP will come in power once again in 2019. The Union Minister further said that whether she would contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls from Amethi against Congress president Rahul Gandhi or not, will be decided by BJP president Amit Shah, adding that "People were not able to recognise me in Amethi in 2014 but now they know who I am." Irani fought against Rahul in the 2014 general elections from Amethi. Talking about the menace of trolling on social media platforms, Irani asserted that she had been trolled not only by celebrated journalists and politicians but also by "anonymous denizens". The Union Minister further said that she admires Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj and Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan."Without any additional support, they both have made a difference in Indian politics. They truly inspire me," she added.

The day Narendra Modi decides to hang his boots, I will leave politics, says Smriti Irani

<p>Union Minister Smriti Irani on Wednesday mounted a scathing attack on Congress while asserting that Congress MP Shashi Tharoor`s alleged defamatory statement on Kumbh and Hindu beliefs was made with the tactical support of the Congress president Rahul Gandhi.</p>

<p>Speaking to media, Irani said, "It is appalling that a Congress MP, with the tactical support of his president Rahul Gandhi, has indulged in smearing of the Kumbh. Crores of Hindus across the world consider Kumbh not only as a part of their faith but they throng to Prayagraj, as Sanatan Dharm tells us that Kumbh is a place where Tapasvis (sage) come for the betterment of mankind."</p>

<p>"Shashi Tharoor has made a statement which tantamounts to a religious slur. This has been done with the tactical support of Congress party and the question needs to be asked to Rahul Gandhi who strategically wears a ‘Janau’ only when there are polls. He must be asked as to why he has allowed this attack on the beliefs of millions of Hindus across the world," she further added.</p>

<p>Intensifying her attack on the Congress president, she further said that Rahul's silence on the issue was an evidence that it was done at his behest only.</p>

<p>"The fact that Rahul Gandhi chooses to be quiet and the Congress party representative continues his attack on Hindu traditions and faith are an indication to the entire community that this attack on Kumbh has been mounted at the direction of the Congress president," Irani stated.</p>

<p>BJP's criticism comes a day after, the Congress MP from Thiruvananthapuram posted on Twitter, "Ganga bhi swachh rakhni hain, aur paap bhi yahi dhone hain. Iss Sangam mein sab nange hain. Jai Ganga Maiya ki!" (Ganga has to be kept clean and sins also have to be washed there. In this Sangam everyone is naked. Hail Goddess Ganga!).”</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, BJP spokesman Nalin Kohli had also stated that such comments on Hindu practices by an educated person like Tharoor is very unfortunate.</p>

<p>"This is very unfortunate. An extremely educated and respected person like Tharoor always comes up with such kind of comments related to practices of the Hindu religion," Kohli said.&nbsp;</p>


Union Minister Smriti Irani on Wednesday mounted a scathing attack on Congress while asserting that Congress MP Shashi Tharoor`s alleged defamatory statement on Kumbh and Hindu beliefs was made with the tactical support of the Congress president Rahul Gandhi.

Union Minister Smriti Irani on Wednesday mounted a scathing attack on Congress while asserting that Congress MP Shashi Tharoor`s alleged defamatory statement on Kumbh and Hindu beliefs was made with the tactical support of the Congress president Rahul Gandhi. Speaking to media, Irani said, "It is appalling that a Congress MP, with the tactical support of his president Rahul Gandhi, has indulged in smearing of the Kumbh. Crores of Hindus across the world consider Kumbh not only as a part of their faith but they throng to Prayagraj, as Sanatan Dharm tells us that Kumbh is a place where Tapasvis (sage) come for the betterment of mankind." "Shashi Tharoor has made a statement which tantamounts to a religious slur. This has been done with the tactical support of Congress party and the question needs to be asked to Rahul Gandhi who strategically wears a ‘Janau’ only when there are polls. He must be asked as to why he has allowed this attack on the beliefs of millions of Hindus across the world," she further added. Intensifying her attack on the Congress president, she further said that Rahul's silence on the issue was an evidence that it was done at his behest only. "The fact that Rahul Gandhi chooses to be quiet and the Congress party representative continues his attack on Hindu traditions and faith are an indication to the entire community that this attack on Kumbh has been mounted at the direction of the Congress president," Irani stated. BJP's criticism comes a day after, the Congress MP from Thiruvananthapuram posted on Twitter, "Ganga bhi swachh rakhni hain, aur paap bhi yahi dhone hain. Iss Sangam mein sab nange hain. Jai Ganga Maiya ki!" (Ganga has to be kept clean and sins also have to be washed there. In this Sangam everyone is naked. Hail Goddess Ganga!).” Earlier in the day, BJP spokesman Nalin Kohli had also stated that such comments on Hindu practices by an educated person like Tharoor is very unfortunate. "This is very unfortunate. An extremely educated and respected person like Tharoor always comes up with such kind of comments related to practices of the Hindu religion," Kohli said.

Rahul strategically wears Janau only near polls, must clarify Tharoor's statement: Smriti Irani

<p>Union minister Smriti Irani Friday asked why Congress chief Rahul Gandhi was "silent" when Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath had said that people from UP and Bihar get employment in MP at the cost of the local population.</p>

<p>"Why was Rahul silent when Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath spoke against people from UP and Bihar working in that state? How will he look into the eyes of people in Amethi today?" she said, ahead of Gandhi's visit to his Lok Sabha constituency.</p>

<p>Irani was on a day's visit to Amethi, about 140km from the state capital Lucknow.</p>

<p>For her visit, local BJP leaders had put up posters seeking an explanation from the Congress president on Kamal Nath's statement on workers from UP and Bihar.</p>

<p>One of the posters carried a collage of newspaper clippings of his statement.</p>

<p>Similarly for Gandhi's visit scheduled later in the day, Congress workers had put up posters praising him over the party's victories in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan. The visit was cancelled as Gandhi was in Lok Sabha for a debate on the Rafale jet controversy.</p>

<p>"Teen rajyon ki jeet ke baad swagat (Welcome after victory in three states," read a poster. Another said, "Amethi ke MP, 2019 ke PM (Amethi MP is future PM)."</p>

<p>Irani had unsuccessfully contested against Gandhi in the 2014 Lok Sabha election and they are likely to fight again from Amethi in the general election later this year.</p>

<p>Soon after being sworn in as Madhya Pradesh chief minister, Kamal Nath had announced a new state government policy under which industries availing investment incentives will need to give 70 per cent employment to the local youth.</p>

<p>He had said, "Lot of industries are set up in which people from other states, like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, come to work. I do not want to criticise them, but the youth of Madhya Pradesh are deprived (of jobs).</p>

<p>"So those who want to come here and take advantage of the investment policies will have to give employment to 70 per cent locals of Madhya Pradesh," he had said.</p>

<p>Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav had hit out at Kamal Nath. Congress legislature party leader Ajay Kumar 'Lalu' had said the statement was "misinterpreted."</p>


Union minister Smriti Irani Friday asked why Congress chief Rahul Gandhi was "silent" when Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath had said that people from UP and Bihar get employment in MP at the cost of the local population.

Union minister Smriti Irani Friday asked why Congress chief Rahul Gandhi was "silent" when Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath had said that people from UP and Bihar get employment in MP at the cost of the local population. "Why was Rahul silent when Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath spoke against people from UP and Bihar working in that state? How will he look into the eyes of people in Amethi today?" she said, ahead of Gandhi's visit to his Lok Sabha constituency. Irani was on a day's visit to Amethi, about 140km from the state capital Lucknow. For her visit, local BJP leaders had put up posters seeking an explanation from the Congress president on Kamal Nath's statement on workers from UP and Bihar. One of the posters carried a collage of newspaper clippings of his statement. Similarly for Gandhi's visit scheduled later in the day, Congress workers had put up posters praising him over the party's victories in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan. The visit was cancelled as Gandhi was in Lok Sabha for a debate on the Rafale jet controversy. "Teen rajyon ki jeet ke baad swagat (Welcome after victory in three states," read a poster. Another said, "Amethi ke MP, 2019 ke PM (Amethi MP is future PM)." Irani had unsuccessfully contested against Gandhi in the 2014 Lok Sabha election and they are likely to fight again from Amethi in the general election later this year. Soon after being sworn in as Madhya Pradesh chief minister, Kamal Nath had announced a new state government policy under which industries availing investment incentives will need to give 70 per cent employment to the local youth. He had said, "Lot of industries are set up in which people from other states, like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, come to work. I do not want to criticise them, but the youth of Madhya Pradesh are deprived (of jobs). "So those who want to come here and take advantage of the investment policies will have to give employment to 70 per cent locals of Madhya Pradesh," he had said. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav had hit out at Kamal Nath. Congress legislature party leader Ajay Kumar 'Lalu' had said the statement was "misinterpreted."

Why was Rahul 'silent' when Kamal Nath spoke against workers from UP, Bihar: Smriti Irani

<p>The BJP on Tuesday accused the Congress leadership of using the CBI to manufacture evidence in the Sohrabuddin Shaikh case to "politically destroy" its president Amit Shah who, it said, has come out of this "trial by fire" unscathed.</p>

<p>The ruling party fielded Smriti Irani to attack Sonia Gandhi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi, whom the Union minister accused of supporting terrorists in his tweet that said "nobody killed" Shaikh and he "just died".</p>

<p>Rahul Gandhi had tweeted this after a special CBI court in Mumbai on December 21 acquitted all 22 accused in the case of the killing of Shaikh, his wife Kausar Bi and his aide Tulsi Prajapati in alleged fake encounters by Gujarat police between 2005 and 2006 citing insufficient evidence.</p>

<p>Shah, who was the minister of state for home in Gujarat at that time, was also arrested briefly in 2010 in the case before being discharged in December 2014.</p>

<p>"It is now clear that the CBI had arrested Amit Shah in 2010 at the prodding of the Congress leadership," Irani said.</p>

<p>She alleged Shah was targeted by the CBI as a part of a "political conspiracy" of the Congress and its then-president because Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the then Gujarat chief minister, and Shah were seen as political rivals by the party.</p>

<p>"The Congress and its president used the CBI to manufacture evidence to politically destroy Shah. It is one of the finest examples of the length to which the Congress will go to destroy its political opponents," she said.</p>

<p>She described the case as a trial by fire for Shah and said he came out unscathed, as the country's verdict had shown that "truth cannot be destroyed".</p>

<p>There was no immediate response from the Congress to her allegations.</p>

<p>The Congress is always willing to trample upon justice and the Constitution to finish off its political rivals, Irani alleged.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Targeting Rahul Gandhi, she said his tweet was an expression of frustration that Shah came out of the case unscathed despite eight years of harassment.</p>

<p>Following the court's order acquitting the accused, Gandhi had tweeted, "No one killed Haren Pandya. Tulsiram Prajapati. Justice Loya. Prakash Thombre. Shrikant Khandalkar. Kauser Bi. Sohrabuddin Shiekh. They just died."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Irani alleged that the Congress will not spare anybody who comes in the way of its pursuit of power which it uses not to serve people but "one family".</p>

<p>She noted that activist Harsh Mander, who she claimed was a member of Sonia Gandhi's "kitchen cabinet", had moved the Supreme Court against Shah's discharge.</p>

<p>Irani read from the Mumbai court's order that criticised the CBI probe and said the agency created evidence to suit its "preconceived and premeditated" theory to implicate political leaders.</p>

<p>The BJP leader alleged that Shah was arrested in 2010 on the "order" of the Congress leadership and left to "rot" in jail before he was granted bail by the court.</p>

<p>"The court has admitted that these cases were slapped against Shah for purely political reasons. Not only in the Mumbai High Court but also in the Supreme Court, the Congress' conspiracy got defeated, " Irani told reporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To a question about AgustaWestland case accused Christian Michel's speaking of "Mrs Gandhi" and making other references which the BJP has linked to the Gandhi family, Irani said sarcastically that she was not in a position to explain it as she is neither Italian and nor her son's name begins with 'R'.</p>

<p>She alleged that the Congress had dispatched its lawyers to help Michel whose "historical relations" with the Gandhi family are established.</p>


The BJP on Tuesday accused the Congress leadership of using the CBI to manufacture evidence in the Sohrabuddin Shaikh case to "politically destroy" its president Amit Shah who, it said, has come out of this "trial by fire" unscathed.

The BJP on Tuesday accused the Congress leadership of using the CBI to manufacture evidence in the Sohrabuddin Shaikh case to "politically destroy" its president Amit Shah who, it said, has come out of this "trial by fire" unscathed. The ruling party fielded Smriti Irani to attack Sonia Gandhi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi, whom the Union minister accused of supporting terrorists in his tweet that said "nobody killed" Shaikh and he "just died". Rahul Gandhi had tweeted this after a special CBI court in Mumbai on December 21 acquitted all 22 accused in the case of the killing of Shaikh, his wife Kausar Bi and his aide Tulsi Prajapati in alleged fake encounters by Gujarat police between 2005 and 2006 citing insufficient evidence. Shah, who was the minister of state for home in Gujarat at that time, was also arrested briefly in 2010 in the case before being discharged in December 2014. "It is now clear that the CBI had arrested Amit Shah in 2010 at the prodding of the Congress leadership," Irani said. She alleged Shah was targeted by the CBI as a part of a "political conspiracy" of the Congress and its then-president because Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the then Gujarat chief minister, and Shah were seen as political rivals by the party. "The Congress and its president used the CBI to manufacture evidence to politically destroy Shah. It is one of the finest examples of the length to which the Congress will go to destroy its political opponents," she said. She described the case as a trial by fire for Shah and said he came out unscathed, as the country's verdict had shown that "truth cannot be destroyed". There was no immediate response from the Congress to her allegations. The Congress is always willing to trample upon justice and the Constitution to finish off its political rivals, Irani alleged. Targeting Rahul Gandhi, she said his tweet was an expression of frustration that Shah came out of the case unscathed despite eight years of harassment. Following the court's order acquitting the accused, Gandhi had tweeted, "No one killed Haren Pandya. Tulsiram Prajapati. Justice Loya. Prakash Thombre. Shrikant Khandalkar. Kauser Bi. Sohrabuddin Shiekh. They just died." Irani alleged that the Congress will not spare anybody who comes in the way of its pursuit of power which it uses not to serve people but "one family". She noted that activist Harsh Mander, who she claimed was a member of Sonia Gandhi's "kitchen cabinet", had moved the Supreme Court against Shah's discharge. Irani read from the Mumbai court's order that criticised the CBI probe and said the agency created evidence to suit its "preconceived and premeditated" theory to implicate political leaders. The BJP leader alleged that Shah was arrested in 2010 on the "order" of the Congress leadership and left to "rot" in jail before he was granted bail by the court. "The court has admitted that these cases were slapped against Shah for purely political reasons. Not only in the Mumbai High Court but also in the Supreme Court, the Congress' conspiracy got defeated, " Irani told reporters. To a question about AgustaWestland case accused Christian Michel's speaking of "Mrs Gandhi" and making other references which the BJP has linked to the Gandhi family, Irani said sarcastically that she was not in a position to explain it as she is neither Italian and nor her son's name begins with 'R'. She alleged that the Congress had dispatched its lawyers to help Michel whose "historical relations" with the Gandhi family are established.

Congress used Sohrabuddin case to 'politically destroy' Amit Shah: BJP

<p>More than two decades back when Union Minister Smriti Irani moved to Mumbai from her hometown Delhi, she had met Saif Ali Khan who had dolled out some advice to the newcomer on how to survive the world of showbiz.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Reminiscing about the old times, Irani recently posted a selfie with Khan after they met at Isha Ambani's wedding on Wednesday. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/isha-ambanis-wedding-mukesh-ambani-brings-politicians-sportsmen-and-film-stars-under-one-roof-183668">Check out photos of the wedding here.</a><br />
<br />
Irani wrote, "23 years ago a rising Star gave a rookie from Delhi advice on how to survive in the chaos of the maximum city; a few tips here &amp; there as to how her dreams can take flight. Little did he know the rookie will turn into a Jumbo Jet 😂Thank you for the memories #saifalikhan"</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BrUNlxXgEac/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">23 years ago a rising Star gave a rookie from Delhi advice on how to survive in the chaos of the maximum city; a few tips here &amp; there as to how her dreams can take flight. Little did he know the rookie will turn into a Jumbo Jet 😂Thank you for the memories #saifalikhan 🙏</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/smritiiraniofficial/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Smriti Irani</a> (@smritiiraniofficial) on <time datetime="2018-12-13T05:29:45+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Dec 12, 2018 at 9:29pm PST</time></p>
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<p>Irani, who was a huge TV star before she made her foray into politics is best known for her role as Tulsi Virani in Ekta Kapoor's 'Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi'.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Khan, meanwhile, has reinvented his career graph recently by starring in Netflix original 'Sacred Games' which earned rave reviews across the world.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
At Isha Ambani's wedding, Khan came with his actress wife Kareena Kapoor Khan and sister-in-law Karisma Kapoor.&nbsp;</p>


More than two decades back when Union Minister Smriti Irani moved to Mumbai from her hometown Delhi, she had met Saif Ali Khan who had dolled out some advice to the newcomer on how to survive the world of showbiz.

More than two decades back when Union Minister Smriti Irani moved to Mumbai from her hometown Delhi, she had met Saif Ali Khan who had dolled out some advice to the newcomer on how to survive the world of showbiz. Reminiscing about the old times, Irani recently posted a selfie with Khan after they met at Isha Ambani's wedding on Wednesday. Check out photos of the wedding here. Irani wrote, "23 years ago a rising Star gave a rookie from Delhi advice on how to survive in the chaos of the maximum city; a few tips here & there as to how her dreams can take flight. Little did he know the rookie will turn into a Jumbo Jet 😂Thank you for the memories #saifalikhan" View this post on Instagram 23 years ago a rising Star gave a rookie from Delhi advice on how to survive in the chaos of the maximum city; a few tips here & there as to how her dreams can take flight. Little did he know the rookie will turn into a Jumbo Jet 😂Thank you for the memories #saifalikhan 🙏 A post shared by Smriti Irani (@smritiiraniofficial) on Dec 12, 2018 at 9:29pm PST × Irani, who was a huge TV star before she made her foray into politics is best known for her role as Tulsi Virani in Ekta Kapoor's 'Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi'. Khan, meanwhile, has reinvented his career graph recently by starring in Netflix original 'Sacred Games' which earned rave reviews across the world. At Isha Ambani's wedding, Khan came with his actress wife Kareena Kapoor Khan and sister-in-law Karisma Kapoor.

Smriti Irani recalls getting advice from Saif Ali Khan 23 years ago when she had just moved to Mumbai

<p>Asserting that the Modi government at the Centre was committed to the development of Telangana, Union Minister Smriti Irani Tuesday alleged that the ruling TRS had 'failed' to take the central schemes to people at the grass root level.</p>

<p>Addressing an election rally at Nizamabad, she said if voted to power, the BJP would provide bicycles at free of cost to girl students from class VII to X, besides scooter at 50 per cent subsidy to young ladies pursuing higher studies.</p>

<p>Highlighting the promises made in the BJP manifesto for December 7 assembly elections in Telangana, the Information and Broadcasting Minister said her party would waive farm loans up to Rs two lakh and provide free borewell to farmers.</p>

<p>She claimed that as many as 20 lakh families in Telangana were given free gas connections under Ujjwala Yojana scheme and the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government had sanctioned over two lakh houses to the state.</p>

<p>"The central government has also connected 44 agricultural markets under eNAM (National Agricultural Market) scheme for the benefit of farmers for better price and better market conditions.</p>

<p>Each and every BJP party worker can proudly say that in these 44 markets, farmers of Telangana were able to sell 7.5 lakh tonnes agricultural goods worth Rs 30,000 crore," she said.</p>

<p>The minister also assured that notification for filling two lakh job vacancies in the state government would be issued within three months if BJP was voted to power.</p>

<p>Irani noted that the Modi government has increased working days under the rural employment scheme, MGNREGA to 150 days from the earlier 100 days and also fund to the extent of Rs 55,000 crore was given.</p>


Asserting that the Modi government at the Centre was committed to the development of Telangana, Union Minister Smriti Irani Tuesday alleged that the ruling TRS had 'failed' to take the central schemes to people at the grass root level.

Asserting that the Modi government at the Centre was committed to the development of Telangana, Union Minister Smriti Irani Tuesday alleged that the ruling TRS had 'failed' to take the central schemes to people at the grass root level. Addressing an election rally at Nizamabad, she said if voted to power, the BJP would provide bicycles at free of cost to girl students from class VII to X, besides scooter at 50 per cent subsidy to young ladies pursuing higher studies. Highlighting the promises made in the BJP manifesto for December 7 assembly elections in Telangana, the Information and Broadcasting Minister said her party would waive farm loans up to Rs two lakh and provide free borewell to farmers. She claimed that as many as 20 lakh families in Telangana were given free gas connections under Ujjwala Yojana scheme and the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government had sanctioned over two lakh houses to the state. "The central government has also connected 44 agricultural markets under eNAM (National Agricultural Market) scheme for the benefit of farmers for better price and better market conditions. Each and every BJP party worker can proudly say that in these 44 markets, farmers of Telangana were able to sell 7.5 lakh tonnes agricultural goods worth Rs 30,000 crore," she said. The minister also assured that notification for filling two lakh job vacancies in the state government would be issued within three months if BJP was voted to power. Irani noted that the Modi government has increased working days under the rural employment scheme, MGNREGA to 150 days from the earlier 100 days and also fund to the extent of Rs 55,000 crore was given.

BJP committed to Telangana development: Union Minister Smriti Irani

<p>Union minister and BJP leader Smriti Irani on Thursday accused the Congress of dividing communities and creating a rift among "brothers".</p>

<p>Irani's statement came in the backdrop of circulation of a purported video in which Madhya Pradesh Congress president Kamal Nath is allegedly asking a group of Muslims to ensure his party gets 90 per cent of votes in their booths.</p>

<p>In another video that surfaced early this month, Nath was purportedly seen urging Muslims to be wary of the RSS agenda. The Congress leader had termed this video as fake.</p>

<p>Addressing an election rally here, Irani said "A Congress leader sitting among Muslim brothers was heard saying that come with us and he will deal with Hindus...Congress leader doesn't know that when one brother meets another, he doesn't ask his caste and religion."</p>

<p>The BJP leader did not name Nath.</p>

<p>Irani alleged the Congress wanted to create a rift among "brothers" and division on communal lines.</p>

<p>She taunted the Congress for not declaring its chief ministerial candidate before the elections in Madhya Pradesh.</p>

<p>"At least they (Congress) should tell the people whether Kamal (Kamal Nath) is blossoming or Jyoti (Jyotiraditya Scindia) will burn bright. What can we expect from a party which is unable to decide its leader," she said.</p>

<p>Irani also took potshots at Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, saying he is "not able to see the development of Madhya Pradesh and the country (under the BJP)".</p>

<p>"Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given a gift of 22,000 houses for the poor in Amethi (Gandhi's Lok Sabha constituency in Uttar Pradesh). There are two lakh beneficiaries of government schemes there," she said.</p>

<p>Irani addressed another election rally in support of the BJP at Barwah in Khargone district.</p>

<p>Madhya Pradesh will have a single phase polling on November 28 for its 230-member assembly. Counting of votes will take place on December 11.</p>

<p>The BJP is seeking a fourth straight term in office in the state, while the Congress is eyeing return to power in its erstwhile bastion after 15 years.&nbsp;</p>


Union minister and BJP leader Smriti Irani on Thursday accused the Congress of dividing communities and creating a rift among "brothers". Irani's statement came in the backdrop of circulation of a purported video in which Madhya Pradesh Congress president Kamal Nath is allegedly asking a group of Muslims to ensure his party gets 90 per cent of votes in their booths.

Union minister and BJP leader Smriti Irani on Thursday accused the Congress of dividing communities and creating a rift among "brothers". Irani's statement came in the backdrop of circulation of a purported video in which Madhya Pradesh Congress president Kamal Nath is allegedly asking a group of Muslims to ensure his party gets 90 per cent of votes in their booths. In another video that surfaced early this month, Nath was purportedly seen urging Muslims to be wary of the RSS agenda. The Congress leader had termed this video as fake. Addressing an election rally here, Irani said "A Congress leader sitting among Muslim brothers was heard saying that come with us and he will deal with Hindus...Congress leader doesn't know that when one brother meets another, he doesn't ask his caste and religion." The BJP leader did not name Nath. Irani alleged the Congress wanted to create a rift among "brothers" and division on communal lines. She taunted the Congress for not declaring its chief ministerial candidate before the elections in Madhya Pradesh. "At least they (Congress) should tell the people whether Kamal (Kamal Nath) is blossoming or Jyoti (Jyotiraditya Scindia) will burn bright. What can we expect from a party which is unable to decide its leader," she said. Irani also took potshots at Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, saying he is "not able to see the development of Madhya Pradesh and the country (under the BJP)". "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given a gift of 22,000 houses for the poor in Amethi (Gandhi's Lok Sabha constituency in Uttar Pradesh). There are two lakh beneficiaries of government schemes there," she said. Irani addressed another election rally in support of the BJP at Barwah in Khargone district. Madhya Pradesh will have a single phase polling on November 28 for its 230-member assembly. Counting of votes will take place on December 11. The BJP is seeking a fourth straight term in office in the state, while the Congress is eyeing return to power in its erstwhile bastion after 15 years.

Congress is dividing communities, says Smriti Irani

<p>It has been an excruciatingly long wait for the entire country to get a glimpse of Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh's wedding photos. The couple got married in a traditional Konkani ceremony at Lake Como, Italy on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While they had made a very public announcement about their wedding dates on social media last month, when it came to the actual wedding, the couple kept it a closed door affair- much to the disappointment of the fans.</p>

<p>Almost everyone in the country waited with bated breath to catch a glimpse of the two actors the entire of Wednesday including Union Minister Smriti Irani.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Irani, in fact, hilariously summed up the wait with a cheeky post on her Instagram page.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Irani zeroed in on a photo of a skeleton and captioned it as: "When you have waited for Deep-Veer wedding pics for too longgggg."&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BqKsPELAi_3/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">#when you have waited for #deepveer #wedding #pics for too longgggg 🤦‍♀️</a></p>

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<p>Soon after the news of their wedding came in, everyone had hoped that couple would release an official photograph but alas, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/deepika-padukone-ranveer-singh-wedding-photos-from-the-private-ceremony-emerge-on-social-media-177411">the only photos everyone got access to were long shots of guests</a> arriving at the wedding venue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Deepika and Ranveer will be having a north Indian wedding on Thursday and will later host receptions in Bengaluru and Mumbai once they are back in India.&nbsp;</p>


It has been an excruciatingly long wait for the entire country to get a glimpse of Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh's wedding photos. The couple got married in a traditional Konkani ceremony at Lake Como, Italy on Wednesday.

It has been an excruciatingly long wait for the entire country to get a glimpse of Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh's wedding photos. The couple got married in a traditional Konkani ceremony at Lake Como, Italy on Wednesday. While they had made a very public announcement about their wedding dates on social media last month, when it came to the actual wedding, the couple kept it a closed door affair- much to the disappointment of the fans. Almost everyone in the country waited with bated breath to catch a glimpse of the two actors the entire of Wednesday including Union Minister Smriti Irani. Irani, in fact, hilariously summed up the wait with a cheeky post on her Instagram page. Irani zeroed in on a photo of a skeleton and captioned it as: "When you have waited for Deep-Veer wedding pics for too longgggg." View this post on Instagram #when you have waited for #deepveer #wedding #pics for too longgggg 🤦‍♀️ A post shared by Smriti Irani (@smritiiraniofficial) on Nov 14, 2018 at 8:13am PST × Soon after the news of their wedding came in, everyone had hoped that couple would release an official photograph but alas, the only photos everyone got access to were long shots of guests arriving at the wedding venue. Deepika and Ranveer will be having a north Indian wedding on Thursday and will later host receptions in Bengaluru and Mumbai once they are back in India.

Smriti Irani's reaction on Deepika- Ranveer's wedding is basically all of us

<p>A complaint was lodged at a Sitamarhi court on Thursday against Union minister Smriti Irani for her alleged remarks on allowing women of menstruating age into the Sabarimala temple in Kerala.</p>

<p>A controversy had erupted after Irani said at an event in Mumbai Tuesday that women had a right to pray but "not desecrate" places of worship.</p>

<p>Hours later, she tweeted that she made "2 factual statements" and "rest of the propaganda/agenda" was launched using her as a "bait".</p>

<p>The complaint was lodged before the court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Sitamarhi, Saroj Kumari by advocate Thakur Chandan Singh.</p>

<p>Thakur Chandan Singh has made protesters against entry of women into the shrine as party in the case.<iframe data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe></p>

<p>On September 28, the Supreme Court lifted the ban on entry of women of menstrual age into the Sabarimala temple. However, women were stopped by protesters from climbing up the hill top shrine.</p>

<p>The complaint has been lodged under Sections 120B (criminal conspiracy to commit offence punishable with death), 124A (sedition), 353 (deterring public servant from discharge of duty) and 354 (outraging the modesty of a woman) of the Indian Penal Code.</p>

<p>The matter is likely to come up for hearing on October 29.&nbsp;</p>


A complaint was lodged at a Sitamarhi court on Thursday against Union minister Smriti Irani for her alleged remarks on allowing women of menstruating age into the Sabarimala temple in Kerala.

A complaint was lodged at a Sitamarhi court on Thursday against Union minister Smriti Irani for her alleged remarks on allowing women of menstruating age into the Sabarimala temple in Kerala. A controversy had erupted after Irani said at an event in Mumbai Tuesday that women had a right to pray but "not desecrate" places of worship. Hours later, she tweeted that she made "2 factual statements" and "rest of the propaganda/agenda" was launched using her as a "bait". The complaint was lodged before the court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Sitamarhi, Saroj Kumari by advocate Thakur Chandan Singh. Thakur Chandan Singh has made protesters against entry of women into the shrine as party in the case. On September 28, the Supreme Court lifted the ban on entry of women of menstrual age into the Sabarimala temple. However, women were stopped by protesters from climbing up the hill top shrine. The complaint has been lodged under Sections 120B (criminal conspiracy to commit offence punishable with death), 124A (sedition), 353 (deterring public servant from discharge of duty) and 354 (outraging the modesty of a woman) of the Indian Penal Code. The matter is likely to come up for hearing on October 29.

Complaint against Smriti Irani in Bihar court over sanitary napkin remark

<p>Amid protests against the Supreme Court order opening the Sabarimala temple in Kerala to women of all ages, Union minister Smriti Irani Tuesday said the right to pray did not mean the right to desecrate.</p>

<p>On September 28, a five-judge constitution bench of the Supreme Court, headed by then chief justice Dipak Misra, lifted the ban on entry of women of menstrual age into the shrine.</p>

<p>Women have been stopped by Ayyappa devotees from climbing up to the Sabarimala temple as protests against the Supreme Court order opening the hilltop shrine to women of all ages continued across Kerala.</p>

<p>"I am nobody to speak against the Supreme Court verdict as I am a serving cabinet minister. But just plain common sense is that would you carry a napkin seeped with menstrual blood and walk into a friend's house. You would not.</p>

<p>"And would you think it is respectful to do the same when you walk into the house of god That is the difference. I have the right to pray, but no right to desecrate. That is the difference that we need to recognise and respect," Irani said.</p>

<p>The Union textile minister was speaking at the "Young Thinkers" conference organised by the British High Commission and the Observer Research Foundation here.</p>

<p>"I am a practising Hindu married to a Zoroastrian. I have ensured that both my kids are practising Zoroastrians, who can go to the fire temple and pray," she said.</p>

<p>Irani recalled that when her children were inside the fire temple, she had to stand outside on the road or sit in the car.</p>

<p>"When I took my newborn son (to the fire temple), I would give him at the (temple) entrance to my husband and wait outside, because I was shooed away and told not to stand there," she said.&nbsp;</p>


Amid protests against the Supreme Court order opening the Sabarimala temple in Kerala to women of all ages, Union minister Smriti Irani Tuesday said the right to pray did not mean the right to desecrate.

Amid protests against the Supreme Court order opening the Sabarimala temple in Kerala to women of all ages, Union minister Smriti Irani Tuesday said the right to pray did not mean the right to desecrate. On September 28, a five-judge constitution bench of the Supreme Court, headed by then chief justice Dipak Misra, lifted the ban on entry of women of menstrual age into the shrine. Women have been stopped by Ayyappa devotees from climbing up to the Sabarimala temple as protests against the Supreme Court order opening the hilltop shrine to women of all ages continued across Kerala. "I am nobody to speak against the Supreme Court verdict as I am a serving cabinet minister. But just plain common sense is that would you carry a napkin seeped with menstrual blood and walk into a friend's house. You would not. "And would you think it is respectful to do the same when you walk into the house of god That is the difference. I have the right to pray, but no right to desecrate. That is the difference that we need to recognise and respect," Irani said. The Union textile minister was speaking at the "Young Thinkers" conference organised by the British High Commission and the Observer Research Foundation here. "I am a practising Hindu married to a Zoroastrian. I have ensured that both my kids are practising Zoroastrians, who can go to the fire temple and pray," she said. Irani recalled that when her children were inside the fire temple, she had to stand outside on the road or sit in the car. "When I took my newborn son (to the fire temple), I would give him at the (temple) entrance to my husband and wait outside, because I was shooed away and told not to stand there," she said.

Right to pray, but no right to desecrate: Smriti Irani on Sabarimala

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