Watch Home Minister Amit Shah's biggest interview with Sudhir Chaudhary. Watch video to know more.

Watch: Home Minister Amit Shah, in an exclusive conversation with WION's editor-in-chief Sudhir Chaudhary

Watch: Home Minister Amit Shah's biggest interview with Sudhir Chaudhary

Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India, Nitin Gadkari answers questions on various issues during an interaction with WION's moderator Molly Gambhir at the EMobilitySummit.

Watch: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari speaks on biofuels during the EMobility Summit

Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India, Nitin Gadkari, who is the chief guest at the event spoke about clean energy during the EMobility Summit.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari speaks during EMobility Summit

WION's editor-in-chief Sudhir Chaudhary delivered the keynote address as the EMobilitySummit got underway in Delhi.

WION's editor-in-chief delivers keynote address at EMobilitySummit

As India switches to green commute to map a cleaner future, WION, the Global English News Channel of Zee Media Group, connects with key decision-makers to track tech-driven solutions for E-Mobility.

WION EMobility Summit Session Three: Start-Ups in EV space - A billion dollar opportunity?

WION EMobility Summit Session Two: CEO's Panel - The road ahead for E-Mobility in India

WION Electronic Mobility Summit: Session One - Regulatory framework for electric vehicles

How does the U.S. and the world see PM Modi's thumping win in the Indian Elections? We ask the man who steered U.S. President Donald Trump's campaign in 2014. Listen to this exclusive conversation between Steve Bannon and WION's Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary.

Gravitas: How Does The World See Modi's Win? An Exclusive Interview With Steve Bannon

In this exclusive interview with WION's Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary; Steve Bannon, former White House chief strategist, and media moghul speaks on India-US future relations after Indian PM Narendra Modi's landslide victory.

Steve Bannon to WION: On India-US ties after PM Modi's Victory for second term

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pulled off an electoral victory this year which resonated across the world. Many global leaders, including US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, congratulated him for the massive mandate in India's general elections. Steve Bannon, former White House chief strategist, and media moghul has said that the western media is absolutely stunned by PM Modi's victory. In an exclusive interview with WION's Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary, Bannon, the former executive chairman of Breitbart News, said he has been incredibly impressed with Modi.

Impressed with Modi, his victory bodes well for India-US ties: Steve Bannon to WION

Watch Prime Minister Narendra Modi's political interview with WION's Editor-in-Chief of WION, Sudhir Chaudhary.

WION Exclusive: Is Modi the only election issue in 2019?

WION Exclusive: In conversation with Finance Minister Arun Jaitley

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

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

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

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

Exclusive: In conversation with Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar

Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar is famous for his brand of nationalism, for repeatedly making films that have a social message or is high on ‘Josh’ as the youth of India calls it.&nbsp;

Speaking about his upcoming film ‘Kesari’ that is scheduled to release in theatres on March 21 on Holi, Akshay got in a conversation with Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary. The interview took place in the backdrop of Red Fort in Delhi as Akshay opened up on the political climate of the country, a possible thawing of tension between India and Pakistan that he hopes for as no one wants war in the world.&nbsp;

Akshay joined Bollywood decades ago but still considers him to have a heart of a Delhiite as he fondly remembers spending his golden years as a child in Chandni Chowk. Red Fort, that overlooks Chandni Chowk gave him nostalgia as he fondly spoke of being born there and playing cricket every day.&nbsp;

Commenting on the current political scenario, Akshay said, ‘My Josh is high, it’s first class,” and then gave an analogy by way of a dialogue from ‘Kesari’: “A guy comes to me in the film and says that we are here to fight to which I say, ‘We will fight when the time is right, right now we are here to help build a place of worship.”

He elaborated, “This is all (terrorism),&nbsp;the&nbsp;wrong interpretation of religion.”

Akshay then explained how Chandni Chowk has taught him all this as it is a place where all religions coexist. He said, “There is a Jain temple, a Hindu temple, Gurudwara and Jama Masjid. People here co-exist, they are happy.”

When prodded whether Pakistan and India would ever be&nbsp;like this in the future, Akshay said they should and added, “Terrorism should get over. War takes the life of a father, husband, son. Nobody wants death. Army and the government know more about politics and international state of affairs. Whatever they decide, we are with them.”

On people asking for proof, Akshay said, “We can't ask the defence or army for proof. We can't ask them, they risk their lives. This takes down their morale. Can’t doubt them.”&nbsp;

He further added, “I am very happy with the country. The kind of freedom you get in this country, you don't get it anywhere.” He also spoke about<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/akshay-kumar-i-dont-want-to-join-politics-just-want-to-make-good-films-204364"> not wanting to join politics </a>as he is not interested.&nbsp;

Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar is famous for his brand of nationalism, for repeatedly making films that have a social message or is high on ‘Josh’ as the youth of India calls it.

Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar is famous for his brand of nationalism, for repeatedly making films that have a social message or is high on ‘Josh’ as the youth of India calls it. Speaking about his upcoming film ‘Kesari’ that is scheduled to release in theatres on March 21 on Holi, Akshay got in a conversation with Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary. The interview took place in the backdrop of Red Fort in Delhi as Akshay opened up on the political climate of the country, a possible thawing of tension between India and Pakistan that he hopes for as no one wants war in the world. Akshay joined Bollywood decades ago but still considers him to have a heart of a Delhiite as he fondly remembers spending his golden years as a child in Chandni Chowk. Red Fort, that overlooks Chandni Chowk gave him nostalgia as he fondly spoke of being born there and playing cricket every day. Commenting on the current political scenario, Akshay said, ‘My Josh is high, it’s first class,” and then gave an analogy by way of a dialogue from ‘Kesari’: “A guy comes to me in the film and says that we are here to fight to which I say, ‘We will fight when the time is right, right now we are here to help build a place of worship.” He elaborated, “This is all (terrorism), the wrong interpretation of religion.” Akshay then explained how Chandni Chowk has taught him all this as it is a place where all religions coexist. He said, “There is a Jain temple, a Hindu temple, Gurudwara and Jama Masjid. People here co-exist, they are happy.” When prodded whether Pakistan and India would ever be like this in the future, Akshay said they should and added, “Terrorism should get over. War takes the life of a father, husband, son. Nobody wants death. Army and the government know more about politics and international state of affairs. Whatever they decide, we are with them.” On people asking for proof, Akshay said, “We can't ask the defence or army for proof. We can't ask them, they risk their lives. This takes down their morale. Can’t doubt them.” He further added, “I am very happy with the country. The kind of freedom you get in this country, you don't get it anywhere.” He also spoke about not wanting to join politics as he is not interested.

The kind of freedom you get in India is not there anywhere else: Akshay Kumar to Zee News

Terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), in its mouthpiece Al Qalam, mentioned&nbsp;Zee News programme DNA&nbsp;while writing a piece on the Indian media.

In the editorial piece, Al Qalam said, "India's famous channel Zee-DNA's anchor Sudhir Chaudhary said that India was behind the breakdown of Bangladesh. The Indian government should intensify its action in Pakistan so that Pakistan should get fragmented. Not only this, but in the prime time program, it has been emphasising that Pakistan should be attacked and war is the only way."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/decoding-xi-jinpings-new-era-and-chinas-objection-to-un-ban-on-jem-chief-masood-azhar-203227">Masood Azhar-led JeM</a>, which has openly spread its anti-India hate campaign through its media outlet accused the Indian media of being a "black spot" in the name of journalism. Clearly, the fact that post-Pulwama, the Indian media openly castigated the terror outfit hasn't gone down well with Masood Azhar.

In fact, Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary&nbsp;in his programme on March 6 had said that "when India gets angry, Pakistan is blown to smithereens."

"This happened in 1971 when Pakistan was divided into two, but now they are beginning to forget the biggest loss in their history. Pakistan is under immense pressure, and one of its regions - Balochistan - is fighting to be free from its rule. The people of Balochistan are fed up of the torture meted out by Pakistan army and want independence," Sudhir Chaudhary said in his programme.

The JeM mouthpiece was caught off-guard as the programme aired on Zee exposed the real feeling prevailing inside Pakistan.

"Balochistan constitutes 44 per cent of Pakistan's total land area. If the region gets independence, Pakistan will lose its identity as a country. If Pakistan doesn't give up their Kashmir dream and focus on fulfilling the wishes on Balochistan, it will lose out 44 per cent of its territory," Zee Network's anchor and editor-in-chief said.

"Balochistan is now a conflict zone where no reporting is allowed because it is controlled by the Pakistani Army. It is a tough job to present the truth of Balochistan to the world. It is heavily guarded by Pakistani military, so the true picture of the torture is never revealed," Sudhir Chaudhary said.

"The only way to understand the real situation is through some videos posted on social media by the residents. People making these videos have to travel hundreds of kilometres to areas where internet is available. They then upload the video for the world to see," the programme revealed.

Terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), in its mouthpiece Al Qalam, mentioned Zee News programme DNA while writing a piece on the Indian media. In the editorial piece, Al Qalam said, "India's famous channel Zee-DNA's anchor Sudhir Chaudhary said that India was behind the breakdown of Bangladesh.

Terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), in its mouthpiece Al Qalam, mentioned Zee News programme DNA while writing a piece on the Indian media. In the editorial piece, Al Qalam said, "India's famous channel Zee-DNA's anchor Sudhir Chaudhary said that India was behind the breakdown of Bangladesh. The Indian government should intensify its action in Pakistan so that Pakistan should get fragmented. Not only this, but in the prime time program, it has been emphasising that Pakistan should be attacked and war is the only way." Masood Azhar-led JeM, which has openly spread its anti-India hate campaign through its media outlet accused the Indian media of being a "black spot" in the name of journalism. Clearly, the fact that post-Pulwama, the Indian media openly castigated the terror outfit hasn't gone down well with Masood Azhar. In fact, Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary in his programme on March 6 had said that "when India gets angry, Pakistan is blown to smithereens." "This happened in 1971 when Pakistan was divided into two, but now they are beginning to forget the biggest loss in their history. Pakistan is under immense pressure, and one of its regions - Balochistan - is fighting to be free from its rule. The people of Balochistan are fed up of the torture meted out by Pakistan army and want independence," Sudhir Chaudhary said in his programme. The JeM mouthpiece was caught off-guard as the programme aired on Zee exposed the real feeling prevailing inside Pakistan. "Balochistan constitutes 44 per cent of Pakistan's total land area. If the region gets independence, Pakistan will lose its identity as a country. If Pakistan doesn't give up their Kashmir dream and focus on fulfilling the wishes on Balochistan, it will lose out 44 per cent of its territory," Zee Network's anchor and editor-in-chief said. "Balochistan is now a conflict zone where no reporting is allowed because it is controlled by the Pakistani Army. It is a tough job to present the truth of Balochistan to the world. It is heavily guarded by Pakistani military, so the true picture of the torture is never revealed," Sudhir Chaudhary said. "The only way to understand the real situation is through some videos posted on social media by the residents. People making these videos have to travel hundreds of kilometres to areas where internet is available. They then upload the video for the world to see," the programme revealed.

JeM mentions Sudhir Chaudhary's DNA programme in its mouthpiece

Exclusive: Sudhir Chaudhary speaks to Piyush Goyal on Budget 2019

The Congress party is in a tight spot after Zee News brought to light a video that shows 'Pakistan Zindabad' slogans were raised at an election rally addressed by senior party leader Navjot Singh Sidhu. However, party leaders remained defiant and instead accused Zee News of playing a 'fake video'. DNA spoke to Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary.

Congress says Zee News has shown a fake video and no 'Pakistan Zindabad' slogan was raised. Is it a correct allegation? 
I outright deny the allegation that the video is fake. It is 100 per cent authentic. To prove this, we have at least seven other feeds that were being recorded live and every feed has the same slogan at the same time. It has become fashionable now that when a leader of Congress is caught red-handed, the party comes to his defence by terming the video to be a fake. This is nothing but yet another Congress tactic to get out of the situation. Zee News completely stands by its video.

Sidhu has also threatened and claimed "nani yaad dila denge". How do you respond? 
I strongly object to the language used by Navjot Singh Sidhu. The Congress always claims that the party believes in freedom of expression and in democratic values. They are the oldest party of the country, but when one of its prominent leaders uses such foul language, it is clearly an attempt to muzzle the voice of the media for not toeing their party line. It shows that the Congress and its leaders' arrogance is at its zenith.

Even the Editors Guild of India has not spoken on the issue. What is the next course of action? 
Zee News always believes in the democratic system of the country. We believe in the legal system so will take all the steps within the legal framework to seek justice. We have sent our written complaint to News Broadcasters Associations and another to the Editors Guild of India. We have also sent a complaint to the Election Commission of India. If need be, we will move the court. So, we are registering our protest against the stance taken by the Congress, but in a democratic way. It is disheartening that the Editors Guild has not taken cognizance, but I hope that a large part of the media will support our campaign. I also believe that this is not just our fight, it must be seen as the fight of the entire media fraternity.

Is Sidhu doing this on his own or does he have his party's backing? 
In such a large set-up like Congress, a leader like Sidhu can't do it alone. You must have seen that when he went to Pakistan, his own Chief Minister Amarinder Singh didn't want him to go. But after returning from Pakistan, Sidhu stated clearly that his captain is not Amrinder, but Rahul Gandhi. Rahul disagreed then, but this has the full top brass' approval for his actions.

(This article was originally published on DNA. <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/india/interview-congress-is-attempting-to-muzzle-voice-of-media-says-sudhir-chaudhary-2692988">Read the original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The Congress party is in a tight spot after Zee News brought to light a video that shows 'Pakistan Zindabad' slogans were raised at an election rally addressed by senior party leader Navjot Singh Sidhu.

The Congress party is in a tight spot after Zee News brought to light a video that shows 'Pakistan Zindabad' slogans were raised at an election rally addressed by senior party leader Navjot Singh Sidhu. However, party leaders remained defiant and instead accused Zee News of playing a 'fake video'. DNA spoke to Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary. Congress says Zee News has shown a fake video and no 'Pakistan Zindabad' slogan was raised. Is it a correct allegation? I outright deny the allegation that the video is fake. It is 100 per cent authentic. To prove this, we have at least seven other feeds that were being recorded live and every feed has the same slogan at the same time. It has become fashionable now that when a leader of Congress is caught red-handed, the party comes to his defence by terming the video to be a fake. This is nothing but yet another Congress tactic to get out of the situation. Zee News completely stands by its video. Sidhu has also threatened and claimed "nani yaad dila denge". How do you respond? I strongly object to the language used by Navjot Singh Sidhu. The Congress always claims that the party believes in freedom of expression and in democratic values. They are the oldest party of the country, but when one of its prominent leaders uses such foul language, it is clearly an attempt to muzzle the voice of the media for not toeing their party line. It shows that the Congress and its leaders' arrogance is at its zenith. Even the Editors Guild of India has not spoken on the issue. What is the next course of action? Zee News always believes in the democratic system of the country. We believe in the legal system so will take all the steps within the legal framework to seek justice. We have sent our written complaint to News Broadcasters Associations and another to the Editors Guild of India. We have also sent a complaint to the Election Commission of India. If need be, we will move the court. So, we are registering our protest against the stance taken by the Congress, but in a democratic way. It is disheartening that the Editors Guild has not taken cognizance, but I hope that a large part of the media will support our campaign. I also believe that this is not just our fight, it must be seen as the fight of the entire media fraternity. Is Sidhu doing this on his own or does he have his party's backing? In such a large set-up like Congress, a leader like Sidhu can't do it alone. You must have seen that when he went to Pakistan, his own Chief Minister Amarinder Singh didn't want him to go. But after returning from Pakistan, Sidhu stated clearly that his captain is not Amrinder, but Rahul Gandhi. Rahul disagreed then, but this has the full top brass' approval for his actions. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

'Congress is attempting to muzzle voice of media', says Sudhir Chaudhary

WION Exclusive: In conversation with BJP president Amit Shah

BJP president Amit Shah has assured of victory in Gujarat Assembly elections. He said the BJP will win with a &quot;full majority in the state&quot;.&nbsp;

Shah was responding to a question asked by Sudhir Chaudhary, the Editor-in-Chief of Zee at the Zee Conclave &quot;Game of Gujarat&quot;.

Sudhir Chaudhary asked him if the target of 150 seats in Gujarat was a little ambitious, to this Shah said&nbsp;people laughed at him when he said the same in Manipur, Uttar Pradesh and Uttrakhand.

He said people use to tell him that no one ever secured more than 47 seats in Uttrakhand till date. His party, however, had achieved the target everywhere, he asserted. He said that there &quot;is a&nbsp;math behind the prediction.&quot;&nbsp;

He then talked about the huge mandate with which the BJP achieved&nbsp;in 2014. The BJP president said the party had fought the election under the leadership of Narendra Modi to whom people showered all their love and support as a result BJP won with an absolute&nbsp;majority.&nbsp;

He added that this happened three and a half years ago. The country has since then seen many elections but the share of their party had not dropped since then, saying the party had in fact &quot;maintained vote share in all the elections.&quot;&nbsp;

He said: &quot;If we continue to maintain this record in Gujarat, then the 59 per cent seat will get us&nbsp;165 seats, and the&nbsp;target is a little less than that.&quot;&nbsp;

He said he had full confidence in every election that was held in Gujarat since 1995.

&quot;The people of Gujarat have blessed the BJP, the people of Gujarat have given us victory.&quot;

Sudhir Chaudhary later questioned the BJP president about the release of LeT chief Hafiz Saeed from the house arrest in Pakistan. &nbsp;

Amit Shah said&nbsp;that for the first time since Independence, people were &quot;celebrating&quot;&nbsp;the release of Hafiz Saeed. He said the &quot;political discourse&quot;&nbsp;had dropped so low and that&nbsp;blame game is spoiling the image of India abroad.&nbsp;

Shah referring to Pakistan, said, &quot;under their rule, there was no arrest at all.&quot;

Shah added&nbsp;that the government had raised strong objections to his release and has now decided to take this to every international forum.

Shah was responding to a question asked by Sudhir Chaudhary, the Editor-in-Chief of Zee in Zee Conclave 'Game of Gujarat'

BJP president Amit Shah has assured of victory in Gujarat Assembly elections. He said the BJP will win with a "full majority in the state". Shah was responding to a question asked by Sudhir Chaudhary, the Editor-in-Chief of Zee at the Zee Conclave "Game of Gujarat". Sudhir Chaudhary asked him if the target of 150 seats in Gujarat was a little ambitious, to this Shah said people laughed at him when he said the same in Manipur, Uttar Pradesh and Uttrakhand. He said people use to tell him that no one ever secured more than 47 seats in Uttrakhand till date. His party, however, had achieved the target everywhere, he asserted. He said that there "is a math behind the prediction." He then talked about the huge mandate with which the BJP achieved in 2014. The BJP president said the party had fought the election under the leadership of Narendra Modi to whom people showered all their love and support as a result BJP won with an absolute majority. He added that this happened three and a half years ago. The country has since then seen many elections but the share of their party had not dropped since then, saying the party had in fact "maintained vote share in all the elections." He said: "If we continue to maintain this record in Gujarat, then the 59 per cent seat will get us 165 seats, and the target is a little less than that." He said he had full confidence in every election that was held in Gujarat since 1995. "The people of Gujarat have blessed the BJP, the people of Gujarat have given us victory." Sudhir Chaudhary later questioned the BJP president about the release of LeT chief Hafiz Saeed from the house arrest in Pakistan. Amit Shah said that for the first time since Independence, people were "celebrating" the release of Hafiz Saeed. He said the "political discourse" had dropped so low and that blame game is spoiling the image of India abroad. Shah referring to Pakistan, said, "under their rule, there was no arrest at all." Shah added that the government had raised strong objections to his release and has now decided to take this to every international forum.

BJP will win with full majority in Gujarat: Amit Shah

Sudhir Chaudhary interviews Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav during the all-important Uttar Pradesh election

This interview has been translated from the original Hindi, and lightly edited for length: By Sudhir Chaudhary Sudhir Chaudhary: If you believe that "kaam bolta hai" ("your work speaks for itself") and you will form a government, what was the point of a coalition with Congress? This shows your weakness... Akhilesh Yadav: Just to eradicate confusion about whether Samajwadi Party (SP) will form a government or not, this coalition was done. And I can say that both parties in the coalition government will win the election. If I contested alone, I would have won 200-250 seats, but now the coalition government will win around 300 seats. Sudhir: Why are you being greedy for 300 seats? 250 is enough for you. I ask because, as I said, you and your party didn't have faith in yourself to win elections... Akhilesh: I did this so that the confusion can be eradicated, and now nobody will have confusion in Uttar Pradesh (UP). Whether we will win or not, the way Uttar Pradesh experienced the first phase election now it is confirmed - SP and Congress will win the elections. Sudhir: Congress party today is just a small party, they won only 44 seats in Lok Sabha elections and they have just seven per cent vote share in UP, and you have given 105 seats to this party. This is an example that shows you are either confused or not sure about your victory. Akhilesh: Politics is a big game, but if you want good friendship you need to have heart. I would have bargained with Congress, but I tried. That friendship should be strong. Sudhir: Who is more of a miser among you? Akhilesh: I will not call this miser, we both got equal share. At least we established a strong bond. Sudhir: But do you think Rahul and you can be good friends? The only one common thing you share is that you both are in politics. Akhilesh: I say its a youth coalition, coming together as a new idea and new development in UP, at least Rahul thinks UP should change its motto towards development. Sudhir: So what do you think how Rahul Gandhi's opinion changed suddenly about you? Akhilesh: Yes there was a motto against me, but that motto can be changed. 27 years of social well-being, It happened in the past, I don't want to consider that. And for long term friendships, we need to move ahead. Sudhir: See this report...what Rahul said about you... Akhilesh: These lines were said in absence of a coalition government, he (Rahul) said that Akhilesh failed, but now I believe I will pass. Sudhir: Who has a bigger role in coalition government during a press conference? Rahul's body language was as if he was your elder brother...do you agree? Akhilesh: In politics there are no such terms like junior or senior. In coming press conferences there will be no such attitude between us. Both are equal and we need to consider them as a national party, since Independence many times they formed governments. We accept the fact. Sudhir: So you were waiting for the moment when Congress would be weakest, and you will adopt them. Akhilesh: You never know when and what situation comes up, and sometimes situations lead to conclusions. So maybe Congress and Samajwadi Party wanted a coalition, so it happened in UP. Sudhir: A viral joke going around now is: "Couples either come from heaven or form due to fear of Modi." Akhilesh: I was listening to BJP candidates and it seems they are more afraid. And I think if blood pressure due to fear...it's of BJP. My blood pressure is still normal. It's just phase-1 in Uttar Pradesh. The majority of voters didn't vote yet, so we are not afraid of any party. This coalition is of youth and new development goals. Sudhir: BJP thinks that this duo is over-aged, they call it ''youth" but they are actually are over age. Akhilesh: I have met several politicians who are 75-85. Still, they call themselves "youth". It hardly matters whatever is our age. But those commenting on this, at least we are younger than them. Sudhir: Don't you think 105 seats is a lot and you wasted this amount of seats? If you had contested alone or would have contested with someone else then maybe you could win in a better way. Akhilesh: Now I don't think this way...whether it's a loss or gain, but now will look forward, and will contest responsibly with all our party candidates. Sudhir: There was a confusion between you and Rahul about who will contest from Amethi, because Congress is the winning party from that constituency. Are you ready to compromise with him on this? Akhilesh: I tried my best to give them seats from different constituencies from wherever they can win...still Samajwadi Party is contesting from those constituencies. Sudhir: Like you have your MLA Prajapati who is contesting from Amethi? Akhilesh: Prajapati is contesting from Amethi. Rakesh, the second sitting MLA, is also contesting elections. In fact, we have Devendraji who is contesting from Rae Bareli. Manoj Pandey is also contesting. I feel that during coalition governments, someone or the other has to face the consequences. Sudhir: Clearly you feel Congress will fail in key constituencies, so Samajwadi Party is contesting from those constituencies. Akhilesh: They removed some candidates, we removed some candidates. The picture will be clearer soon. Sudhir: How is your experience with Rahul Gandhi till now? I was looking through the pictures and videos and while you both were contesting there were electric wires you had to wade through during a rally.... Akhilesh: We came across wires and poles, but at least we were safe and sometimes you need to follow the route your worker's decide...and it's good to visit such localities and it's a matter of experience for politicians. Sudhir: What you think Rahul Gandhi will learn from you in this election? Akhilesh: I will not teach him anything, but as politicians, we move ahead as situations come up, events take place, this makes a politician an experienced person. Sudhir: Let's assume you win this election and everything goes well. So in 2019, will you again contest again with Rahul? Akhilesh: Not yet planned for 2019, but after winning this election situation will change. And what situation will be there in 2019, we will see. Sudhir: You are young. If you win the election for the second time and get a majority, you will establish yourself as a young national leader, and many people assume that this election is important for 2019, and it is a possibility that your name will come up for the PM candidature. Akhilesh: I don't dream very big, my dream is limited only to Uttar Pradesh. If people will give me a chance I will work. This led to Lucknow expressway, and want to extend it to Gazipur and Baliya. As soon as possible this work will get done. We will set market and industries near the expressway, so that skill development for youth and employment can be achieved. Villages should get 24x7 electricity, that's my big dream. Who will stay in Lucknow. I'll last longer than those who stay in Delhi.... Sudhir: It also means Rahul Gandhi should not feel insecure, and if the situation arrives, you will not create any trouble for him. You will stay happy here in Lucknow... Akhilesh: Like I said I don't dream big, at least I believe whosoever stays away from Delhi, lasts longer and will always be happy...I am not in a rush to move to Delhi. Sudhir: But it's a dream for Congress. Akhilesh: If Congress has a dream they need to take a responsible decision because it's a big dream to achieve. Sudhir: I asked this because once Netaji (Mulayam Singh) almost reached there. But some people didn't let him become the PM, so it's a possibility that his son might become.... Akhilesh: Right now he is a politician, and I believe after this election Netaji will be proud, and right now my priority is that 20-25 days of election is left. Samajwadi should win with a majority, and after that what decision we should take will be considered later... Sudhir: Who is your competitor? Akhilesh: I can say that Samajwadi Party is heading, we are cyclists, we balance our handle and go with a good speed. And we do not consider who is behind us... Sudhir: Mulayam Singh never favoured you for this coalition, but still you did it...he might have felt bad. Akhilesh: I tried to be under Netaji, and coalition was the need of the hour, that's why it happened, so that confusion persists. Sudhir: Till now Mulayam Singh hasn't supported you on this... Akhilesh: For whosoever he might contest they are part of Samajwadi Party only. Sudhir: But he is only supporting Shiv Pal and not supporting anyone. Akhilesh: We went to Jaswant Nagar, Bhartana, Lucknow, and I feel with whomsoever he went they all are Samajawadi candidates. He is also saying SP should win. So this is a blessing for the whole party. Sudhir: What kind of coalition is this where Netaji is not active, Sonia Gandhi is not active, Priyanka is not active? It seems everything is totally upon your shoulders... Akhilesh: See how much they trust us that this duo will change UP politics. Sudhir: What have you done till now regarding Netaji's support? Even if you win the election without his support, what's the whole point of it? Akhilesh: There is a lot of time in this...But nobody wants Netaji to be disappointed. Sudhir: But he is... Akhilesh: I feel he is supporting the party, and wherever he is going, he is in favour of the party Sudhir: It's been a long time, still this question arises: when there was a dispute going on in your family, many people used to say it was planned. "Netaji wants to make his son an undisputed leader, and the Samajwadi symbol that is the cycle should go in your favour and that's why it was done". I ask that you answer honestly, was it planned? Akhilesh: What was my situation nobody will know .. and if I talk about people's perception, family drama or planned, everything is wrong as people were angry. But the majority of the party is in my favour. Sudhir: Though we belong to that country where Shrawan Kumar was born, so for any son it is difficult to go against his father ...hardly matters whether it is for the party's sake. As a son, how difficult was it for you to go against your father? Akhilesh: Netaji and party members wanted the party to do well and move ahead towards progress, and according to the situation at that time, my decision was right. But it was for party's sake. If we form a government, Netaji will be very happy. Sudhir: I still remember it was the night of December 31, an occasion people usually celebrate. For you, how was it? Akhilesh: I think it's not a topic for discussion...maybe after elections we can discuss it, because keeping everything aside we want support from people. We should get a chance... Sudhir: Any person who would be in your situation, who is chief minister and doesn't know whether he will continue or not, will do lots of planning. Maybe you are planning for UP, but your wife might be busy deciding which packer and mover should be booked, where to shift next time. Have you planned where you will shift to after this? Akhilesh: My party members know that I don't have much with me. Even if the situation arises I don't need any packer and mover to relocate. And I know people will support Samajwadi Party, and you will see me here again after March 11. I am thinking what else I should bring here after March 11. Sudhir: We build highways...you made us count your achievements, but what about law and order? And still, women are afraid to go out alone in UP. Maybe you deny the fact but Uttar Pradesh is on top in crime, you failed in that aspect... Akhilesh: Anyone accusing me should at least bring reports or facts containing data about each state, not talk about incidents. They should also think and consider other states where incidents also happen. We have worked for law and order. For example, we have given 100 number service, the opposition doesn't have goals for development. This is a sign of failure. Sudhir: Can you swear that women are safe in UP? Akhilesh: We are trying to improve the situation. The police should work effectively, this goal was given to us... Sudhir: Jungle raj...complete lawlessness...rule of the gun are used for UP NCRB data. At 12.7, UP is more notorious than Bihar. Akhilesh: I am saying you should consider stats of different states.It should be per lakh (per 100,000). Sudhir: Yadav title is dominating the UP services. Akhilesh: This is old news...report was sent to the governor regarding this. If you say why mostly people dying are Yadavs? Sudhir: On national perspective Uttar Pradesh lags behind many states including Rajasthan, Orissa, West Bengal and Jharkhand. In GDP UP also lags behind..... Akhilesh: Mostly awards are won by Uttar Pradesh, including IT sector, forest cover, Guinness Book of World Record for tree plantation. Nutrition mission run by SP. We are No-1 in sugarcane plantation and sugar manufacturing, top in potato production. We have made India's largest expressway... Sudhir: But when rape happens on an expressway that's an issue... Akhilesh: We have police check-points every 30 kilometres on the expressway...you can take it on record Sudhir: Why does the media love you so much... Akhilesh: I don't own a share, and I guess you understand better how channels run...incidents in UP make it to "breaking news", but in other states it does not... Sudhir: What will you change if you become CM again? Akhilesh: If SP forms the government, UP will be on top in every sector, and will create skill development centres, will create mandi's, we have allotted land to Baba Ramdev. I will support whoever will come here in food processing... Sudhir: Let's talk about your opposition. They say you will not form the government... Akhilesh: They are very disappointed because in the first phase they didn't have major support of the people, and they know the truth and voters too know the truth. That's why they are accusing us. They should first talk about their work... Sudhir: Do you think this election totally depends upon demonitisation? Akhilesh: People vote in every election. During Lok Sabha elections, people considered central goals. We got less seats because BJP got BSP support, and also many young voters went with the BJP keeping in mind that government will make progress in many issues. Demonitisation was a desperate move because people faced challenges. Sudhir: Will demonitisation help? Akhilesh: Peole should know and understand what corruption means. Money is not judged by colour, it's just transactions which are black, and people who faced challenges will again stand in line and will vote against BJP. Sudhir: What is brand Akhilesh? People say it's your golden period. Akhilesh: I'm confident that if Samajwadi Party will experience a golden period, we will win. Sudhir: What will be the effect on presidential election due to this election? Akhilesh: UP is the largest state, the most populous state. I think we will have an important vote in the presidential elections. Sudhir: Do you have any candidate for presidential elections? Akhilesh: We will think after March 11... Sudhir: How do you feel when your brother's picture gets published in newspapers, driving a five crore ($740,000) car. Akhilesh: He is doing a business, and if he is earning well and buying a car, it hardly matters to us. It's not affecting the ethics of the Samajwadi Party. We are moving ahead now and giving smartphones, 1.4 lakhs (140,000) registrations have been done... Sudhir: Rahul and you both have been called "Sultan" and "Tipu", respectively: Would you like to comment on it? Akhilesh: Our duo will work together towards progress and will bring in new change and both of us will stand together... (WION)

No junior or senior, Congress and SP are equal partners, says UP chief minister Akhilesh Yadav