The Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday announced a list of seven candidates for Uttar Pradesh. Actor-turned-politician Ravi Kishan has been fielded from BJP-stronghold Gorakhpur, Praveen Nishad to contest from Sant Kabir Nagar.&nbsp;

On Sunday. the BJP released its 20th list of Lok Sabha candidates, naming six nominees from Haryana, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

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Lok Sabha Elections 2019: Bharatiya Janata Party announces list of seven candidates for Uttar Pradesh ; Ravi Kishan (in file pic) to contest from Gorakhpur and Praveen Nishad to contest from Sant Kabir Nagar (Sharad Tripathi is the sitting MP from Sant Kabir Nagar) <a href="https://t.co/myUwtpOF50">pic.twitter.com/myUwtpOF50</a>
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Among the six candidates, Union Minister Birender Singh's son Brijendra Singh will be contesting from Hisar parliamentary constituency in Haryana.

The other candidates that the party fielded are - Arvind Sharma from Rohtak (Haryana), Jaskaur Meena from Dausa (Rajasthan), Bishnu Dutt Sharma from Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh), GS Damor from Ratlam (Madhya Pradesh) and Chattar Singh Darbar from Dhar (Madhya Pradesh).

The party also named Pratush Kumar Mondal as its nominee for the by-election to Uluberia Purba Assembly seat in West Bengal.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday announced a list of seven candidates for Uttar Pradesh. Actor-turned-politician Ravi Kishan has been fielded from BJP-stronghold Gorakhpur, Praveen Nishad to contest from Sant Kabir Nagar.

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday announced a list of seven candidates for Uttar Pradesh. Actor-turned-politician Ravi Kishan has been fielded from BJP-stronghold Gorakhpur, Praveen Nishad to contest from Sant Kabir Nagar. On Sunday. the BJP released its 20th list of Lok Sabha candidates, naming six nominees from Haryana, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Lok Sabha Elections 2019: Bharatiya Janata Party announces list of seven candidates for Uttar Pradesh ; Ravi Kishan (in file pic) to contest from Gorakhpur and Praveen Nishad to contest from Sant Kabir Nagar (Sharad Tripathi is the sitting MP from Sant Kabir Nagar) pic.twitter.com/myUwtpOF50 — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 15, 2019 × Among the six candidates, Union Minister Birender Singh's son Brijendra Singh will be contesting from Hisar parliamentary constituency in Haryana. The other candidates that the party fielded are - Arvind Sharma from Rohtak (Haryana), Jaskaur Meena from Dausa (Rajasthan), Bishnu Dutt Sharma from Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh), GS Damor from Ratlam (Madhya Pradesh) and Chattar Singh Darbar from Dhar (Madhya Pradesh). The party also named Pratush Kumar Mondal as its nominee for the by-election to Uluberia Purba Assembly seat in West Bengal. (With inputs from ANI)

Lok Sabha polls: BJP releases list of 7 candidates for UP, fields Ravi Kishan from Gorakhpur

The Election Commission today cracks the whip on leaders for making communal remarks for attracting voters. Mayawati and Yogi Adityanath can't campaign for some upcoming days. Watch video to know more.

Yogi Adityanath can't campaign for next 3 days, EC orders on leaders making communal remarks

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.&nbsp;

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

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to file nomination from Varanasi parliamentary constituency next week.

Sources in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who are in charge of planning his election schedule, told ANI that Prime Minister Modi may file the nomination on April 26.

The BJP workers and leaders are working on a plan to organise a two-day mega programme in the run-up to the filing of nomination during which Prime Minister Modi will hold two road shows in the constituency.

According to sources, Prime Minister Modi would reach the city on April 25 and will head for a road show from Banaras Hindu University to Dashashwamedh Ghat.

The later part of the day has been reserved for a visit to the Kaal Bhairav Temple following which he will participate in the Ganga Aarti on the ghats of the holy city.

On the same day, PM Modi would spend time with party workers and intellectuals, sources added.

For the next day, the Prime Minister is expected to begin his schedule with prayers at the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

BJP workers are giving final touches to the itinerary of the day, which includes another road show as Prime Minister proceeds to file his nomination. He may also hold media interaction.

PM Modi held similar mega road shows in 2014 - both before and after winning the constituency in the 16th Lok Sabha elections. Three years later, the Prime Minister hit the streets of Varanasi for campaigning during the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls.

During the 2014 general elections, Prime Minister Modi contested and won from Vadodara in Gujarat as well as from Varanasi but retained the later after trouncing Aam Aadmi Party convenor Arvind Kejriwal with a massive margin of 3.37 lakh votes.

Varanasi will vote on May 19 - in the seventh and the last phase of the Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to file nomination from Varanasi parliamentary constituency next week. Sources in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who are in charge of planning his election schedule, told ANI that Prime Minister Modi may file the nomination on April 26.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to file nomination from Varanasi parliamentary constituency next week. Sources in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who are in charge of planning his election schedule, told ANI that Prime Minister Modi may file the nomination on April 26. The BJP workers and leaders are working on a plan to organise a two-day mega programme in the run-up to the filing of nomination during which Prime Minister Modi will hold two road shows in the constituency. According to sources, Prime Minister Modi would reach the city on April 25 and will head for a road show from Banaras Hindu University to Dashashwamedh Ghat. The later part of the day has been reserved for a visit to the Kaal Bhairav Temple following which he will participate in the Ganga Aarti on the ghats of the holy city. On the same day, PM Modi would spend time with party workers and intellectuals, sources added. For the next day, the Prime Minister is expected to begin his schedule with prayers at the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple. BJP workers are giving final touches to the itinerary of the day, which includes another road show as Prime Minister proceeds to file his nomination. He may also hold media interaction. PM Modi held similar mega road shows in 2014 - both before and after winning the constituency in the 16th Lok Sabha elections. Three years later, the Prime Minister hit the streets of Varanasi for campaigning during the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls. During the 2014 general elections, Prime Minister Modi contested and won from Vadodara in Gujarat as well as from Varanasi but retained the later after trouncing Aam Aadmi Party convenor Arvind Kejriwal with a massive margin of 3.37 lakh votes. Varanasi will vote on May 19 - in the seventh and the last phase of the Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Lok Sabha polls: PM Modi likely to file nomination from Varanasi on April 26

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati on Sunday dismissed the claim made by BJP chief Amit Shah that her party remembered Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar only during elections.

In a tweet, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said, "The statement of BJP chief Amit Shah that the BSP remembers Babasaheb Ambedkar only during elections is untrue and mischievous."

Describing the BSP as a movement, Mayawati said taking inspiration from Ambedkar, her party was working for all sections of the society.

In another tweet, she said, "BJP leaders have now forgotten development, black money, corruption, poverty, unemployment and farmers. Now they have started raking up patriotism and national security...But after being unsuccessful in that, they are now threatening the voters like it was done by Maneka Gandhi, which is highly condemnable."

In a controversial remark, Union Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi recently told Muslims to vote for her as they would need her once the Lok Sabha polls were over. She is the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate from Sultanpur in Uttar Pradesh in the ongoing general election. 
&nbsp;

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati on Sunday dismissed the claim made by BJP chief Amit Shah that her party remembered Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar only during elections.

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati on Sunday dismissed the claim made by BJP chief Amit Shah that her party remembered Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar only during elections. In a tweet, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said, "The statement of BJP chief Amit Shah that the BSP remembers Babasaheb Ambedkar only during elections is untrue and mischievous." Describing the BSP as a movement, Mayawati said taking inspiration from Ambedkar, her party was working for all sections of the society. In another tweet, she said, "BJP leaders have now forgotten development, black money, corruption, poverty, unemployment and farmers. Now they have started raking up patriotism and national security...But after being unsuccessful in that, they are now threatening the voters like it was done by Maneka Gandhi, which is highly condemnable." In a controversial remark, Union Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi recently told Muslims to vote for her as they would need her once the Lok Sabha polls were over. She is the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate from Sultanpur in Uttar Pradesh in the ongoing general election.

Mayawati dismisses Shah's claim that BSP remembers Ambedkar only during polls

Three months after the surprise political debut of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/attempt-being-made-to-destroy-the-constitution-priyanka-gandhi-210337">Priyanka Gandhi Vadra</a>, does the Congress have another surprise in store for its supporters?

She debuted as the AICC general secretary in charge of Uttar Pradesh East and now speculations are rife that she might be pitted against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-govt-lamented-after-terror-attacks-we-killed-terrorists-in-their-home-pm-modi-210390">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> from his home constituency, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-decision-yet-on-priyanka-gandhi-contesting-from-varanasi-rajeev-shukla-208559">Varanasi</a>, this Lok Sabha polls.

In fact, the Congress itself is indirectly fuelling the rumours by refraining from announcing its candidate for Varanasi. The constituency failed to feature in the list of seats in Uttar Pradesh for which the party declared its nominees on Saturday.

As for Priyanka, she too hasn't denied contesting polls - not yet.

Reports of the Congress cadre requesting Priyanka to contest from the state have been doing the rounds for weeks now but the Congress leadership has remained tight-lipped about any speculation over Priyanka’s candidature.&nbsp;

Remember, apart from Varanasi, the Congress is yet to name its candidate from Lucknow, from where the BJP has fielded its incumbent MP Rajnath Singh

Will Priyanka Gandhi Vadra be pitted against PM Modi this Lok Sabha polls? According to reports, Priyanka has agreed to contest from Varanasi with the final decision pending with the party high command. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/varanasi-constituency-to-watch-out-for-this-election-207981">Varanasi goes to polls on May 19</a>.&nbsp;

Three months after the surprise political debut of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, does the Congress have another surprise in store for its supporters? She debuted as the AICC general secretary in charge of Uttar Pradesh East and now speculations are rife that she might be pitted against Prime Minister Narendra Modi from his home constituency, Varanasi, this Lok Sabha polls.

Three months after the surprise political debut of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, does the Congress have another surprise in store for its supporters? She debuted as the AICC general secretary in charge of Uttar Pradesh East and now speculations are rife that she might be pitted against Prime Minister Narendra Modi from his home constituency, Varanasi, this Lok Sabha polls. In fact, the Congress itself is indirectly fuelling the rumours by refraining from announcing its candidate for Varanasi. The constituency failed to feature in the list of seats in Uttar Pradesh for which the party declared its nominees on Saturday. As for Priyanka, she too hasn't denied contesting polls - not yet. Reports of the Congress cadre requesting Priyanka to contest from the state have been doing the rounds for weeks now but the Congress leadership has remained tight-lipped about any speculation over Priyanka’s candidature. Remember, apart from Varanasi, the Congress is yet to name its candidate from Lucknow, from where the BJP has fielded its incumbent MP Rajnath Singh Will Priyanka Gandhi Vadra be pitted against PM Modi this Lok Sabha polls? According to reports, Priyanka has agreed to contest from Varanasi with the final decision pending with the party high command. Varanasi goes to polls on May 19.

Lok Sabha polls: With Congress tight-lipped about Varanasi candidate, speculations pit Priyanka Gandhi against PM Modi in his home constituency

BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday took a swipe at BSP supremo Mayawati, stating she remembers Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar only during elections.

"When it is time for elections, Behenji remembers Ambedkar ji. But when she comes to power, she forgets Ambedkar ji and builds her own statues," Shah said while addressing an election rally here.

"It is the BJP government that has built Ambedkar ji's memorial in five years. We have done a lot of works for Dalits in the last five years," added the BJP president.

Reiterating his party's tough stance on infiltrators, Shah said, "Infiltrators are dangerous for the security of our country. They are eating our country like termites. We will not tolerate this. We will ensure that every single infiltrator is thrown out from this country by our party."

Hitting out at Congress, BSP and SP, Shah claimed that these parties could not keep the country safe, and contended that only the BJP could keep the nation safe from its enemies.

Accusing the Congress of ignoring the welfare of poor people, Shah said that the leaders in the grand old party were only "interested" in indulging in corruption.

"In the last 55 years, Rahul Gandhi and his party did not care for the poor. They did not do anything. In the last two years, Uttar Pradesh under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has done a lot of works for the poor," he said.

Talking about the Congress'&nbsp;pledge to remove poverty from the country, he said, "Those who were giving slogans on 'Garibi Hatao'&nbsp;have been taught a lesson by Prime Minister Narendra Modi by ensuring employment to poor and downtrodden."

"The people of this country want to see Narendra Modi as the Prime Minister again. The entire country is chanting 'Modi, Modi.'&nbsp;The electorates have decided to elect Narendra Modi again," he said.

Earlier addressing an election rally in Badaun, Shah took a jibe at the grand alliance of SP-BSP in Uttar Pradesh, stating that "Mahagathbandhan has no policy and no face. Can they give a befitting reply to terrorism? I want to ask the alliance - Who is your face?"

Highlighting the works done by the BJP, Shah said, "The Narendra Modi government made 9,400 houses for the poor in Badaun, provided insurance to 75,000 people, and opened bank accounts for 80,000 people."

"Around 75, 000 farmers here enjoy the benefit of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. We also gave two lakh gas connections to women," he said.

Eight constituencies in Uttar Pradesh, where 80 Lok Sabha seats are at stake, went to polls during the first phase of polling April 11. In the second phase on April 18, eight seats will go to polls. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday took a swipe at BSP supremo Mayawati, stating she remembers Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar only during elections. "When it is time for elections, Behenji remembers Ambedkar ji.

BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday took a swipe at BSP supremo Mayawati, stating she remembers Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar only during elections. "When it is time for elections, Behenji remembers Ambedkar ji. But when she comes to power, she forgets Ambedkar ji and builds her own statues," Shah said while addressing an election rally here. "It is the BJP government that has built Ambedkar ji's memorial in five years. We have done a lot of works for Dalits in the last five years," added the BJP president. Reiterating his party's tough stance on infiltrators, Shah said, "Infiltrators are dangerous for the security of our country. They are eating our country like termites. We will not tolerate this. We will ensure that every single infiltrator is thrown out from this country by our party." Hitting out at Congress, BSP and SP, Shah claimed that these parties could not keep the country safe, and contended that only the BJP could keep the nation safe from its enemies. Accusing the Congress of ignoring the welfare of poor people, Shah said that the leaders in the grand old party were only "interested" in indulging in corruption. "In the last 55 years, Rahul Gandhi and his party did not care for the poor. They did not do anything. In the last two years, Uttar Pradesh under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has done a lot of works for the poor," he said. Talking about the Congress' pledge to remove poverty from the country, he said, "Those who were giving slogans on 'Garibi Hatao' have been taught a lesson by Prime Minister Narendra Modi by ensuring employment to poor and downtrodden." "The people of this country want to see Narendra Modi as the Prime Minister again. The entire country is chanting 'Modi, Modi.' The electorates have decided to elect Narendra Modi again," he said. Earlier addressing an election rally in Badaun, Shah took a jibe at the grand alliance of SP-BSP in Uttar Pradesh, stating that "Mahagathbandhan has no policy and no face. Can they give a befitting reply to terrorism? I want to ask the alliance - Who is your face?" Highlighting the works done by the BJP, Shah said, "The Narendra Modi government made 9,400 houses for the poor in Badaun, provided insurance to 75,000 people, and opened bank accounts for 80,000 people." "Around 75, 000 farmers here enjoy the benefit of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. We also gave two lakh gas connections to women," he said. Eight constituencies in Uttar Pradesh, where 80 Lok Sabha seats are at stake, went to polls during the first phase of polling April 11. In the second phase on April 18, eight seats will go to polls. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Mayawati remembers Dr Ambedkar only during polls: Amit Shah

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-frightened-rahul-gandhi-has-fled-amethi-seat-says-yogi-adityanath-209328">Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath</a> on Friday said that terrorists and<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chhattisgarh-bjp-convoy-attacked-by-naxals-policemen-mla-killed-209063"> Naxals</a> are afraid of BJP government and don't want to come near it, as they are aware that they will either be jailed or killed.&nbsp;

While addressing a rally in Raipur, Adityanath said, "The terrorists and Naxals run away from us, they do not want to come near us for they know it means only two things, either they will land in jail or they will be killed (unka Ram Naam Satya ho jayega) and leave for their heavenly adobe.&nbsp;There is no third meaning."

Taking a dig at Congress, he said that in the last few months, the system has derailed in Chhattisgarh under the Congress rule."In the last 5-6 months, the system has totally derailed in Chhattisgarh.&nbsp;

In the 55-60 years of their rule, the successive Congress government have only looted the country and plunged it into poverty, casteism, regionalism, terrorism, and Naxalism," he said. Adityanath also slammed former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh by alleging that he discriminated between Muslims and other individuals."

Manmohan Singh during his tenure as Prime Minister said that Muslims have first right over the resources of this country. Where will the Dalits, backward, women, tribal and others go?" the UP CM asked.&nbsp;

People on Thursday turned up in large numbers to cast their vote in the first phase of Lok Sabha elections in Chhattisgarh.

Voters queued up to exercise their franchise in Naxal-affected regions of Dantewada and Sukma amid heavy security. Chhattisgarh, which went to polls in the first phase of Lok Sabha elections on April 11, will now go to polls on April 18 and 23&nbsp;for its 11 parliamentary constituencies.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday said that terrorists and Naxals are afraid of BJP government and don't want to come near it, as they are aware that they will either be jailed or killed.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday said that terrorists and Naxals are afraid of BJP government and don't want to come near it, as they are aware that they will either be jailed or killed. While addressing a rally in Raipur, Adityanath said, "The terrorists and Naxals run away from us, they do not want to come near us for they know it means only two things, either they will land in jail or they will be killed (unka Ram Naam Satya ho jayega) and leave for their heavenly adobe. There is no third meaning." Taking a dig at Congress, he said that in the last few months, the system has derailed in Chhattisgarh under the Congress rule."In the last 5-6 months, the system has totally derailed in Chhattisgarh. In the 55-60 years of their rule, the successive Congress government have only looted the country and plunged it into poverty, casteism, regionalism, terrorism, and Naxalism," he said. Adityanath also slammed former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh by alleging that he discriminated between Muslims and other individuals." Manmohan Singh during his tenure as Prime Minister said that Muslims have first right over the resources of this country. Where will the Dalits, backward, women, tribal and others go?" the UP CM asked. People on Thursday turned up in large numbers to cast their vote in the first phase of Lok Sabha elections in Chhattisgarh. Voters queued up to exercise their franchise in Naxal-affected regions of Dantewada and Sukma amid heavy security. Chhattisgarh, which went to polls in the first phase of Lok Sabha elections on April 11, will now go to polls on April 18 and 23 for its 11 parliamentary constituencies.

Terrorists, Naxals afraid of BJP government: Yogi Adityanath

Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday sent notices to Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati and UP CM Yogi Adityanath over their speeches delivered in Deoband in Saharanpur on April 7 and 9 respectively, which allegedly violated the Model Code of Conduct.

Both the leaders have been asked to submit their response within 24 hours.

The two leaders have been issued notice under Sub-Section (3) of Section 123 of the Representation of the People`s Act.

The commission in its notice to them also reminded that the Supreme Court through a judgement in 2017 had ordered that religion and caste cannot be used by anyone while making any statement during electioneering or otherwise.

"The EC is prima facie of the opinion that you have violated the aforesaid provisions of the MCC and also wilfully disobeyed the order of the Supreme Court by making impugned statements," the Commission said in the notice issued to both the leaders.

Mayawati while addressing a rally in Deoband on April 7 had said, "I want to say to the people of the Muslim community that you should not distribute your votes in the name of relations and friendship. If you want to defeat the BJP in UP, then you should not let your votes get divided. Instead, vote for the grand-alliance candidates in a consolidated manner. This is my request, especially to the people of the Muslim community."

Replying to Mayawati, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath while addressing a rally in Meerut said, "You would have heard Mayawati`s speech day before yesterday. She said that if she gets only Muslim votes, then grand-alliance doesn`t need the votes of others. I also want to tell you that if Congress, Samajwadi Party, BSP have faith in Ali, then we have faith in Bajrangbali."

"They have accepted that followers of Bajrangbali will never tolerate them. That is why by shouting `Ali-Ali` from stages, they want to spread a green virus to bite this country," the Chief Minister had added.&nbsp;

Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday sent notices to Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati and UP CM Yogi Adityanath over their speeches delivered in Deoband in Saharanpur on April 7 and 9 respectively, which allegedly violated the Model Code of Conduct.

Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday sent notices to Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati and UP CM Yogi Adityanath over their speeches delivered in Deoband in Saharanpur on April 7 and 9 respectively, which allegedly violated the Model Code of Conduct. Both the leaders have been asked to submit their response within 24 hours. The two leaders have been issued notice under Sub-Section (3) of Section 123 of the Representation of the People`s Act. The commission in its notice to them also reminded that the Supreme Court through a judgement in 2017 had ordered that religion and caste cannot be used by anyone while making any statement during electioneering or otherwise. "The EC is prima facie of the opinion that you have violated the aforesaid provisions of the MCC and also wilfully disobeyed the order of the Supreme Court by making impugned statements," the Commission said in the notice issued to both the leaders. Mayawati while addressing a rally in Deoband on April 7 had said, "I want to say to the people of the Muslim community that you should not distribute your votes in the name of relations and friendship. If you want to defeat the BJP in UP, then you should not let your votes get divided. Instead, vote for the grand-alliance candidates in a consolidated manner. This is my request, especially to the people of the Muslim community." Replying to Mayawati, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath while addressing a rally in Meerut said, "You would have heard Mayawati`s speech day before yesterday. She said that if she gets only Muslim votes, then grand-alliance doesn`t need the votes of others. I also want to tell you that if Congress, Samajwadi Party, BSP have faith in Ali, then we have faith in Bajrangbali." "They have accepted that followers of Bajrangbali will never tolerate them. That is why by shouting `Ali-Ali` from stages, they want to spread a green virus to bite this country," the Chief Minister had added.

EC sends notice to Yogi, Mayawati for 'violation' of Model Code of Conduct, seeks reply within 24 hours

Today major states record high voter turnout on first phase of India Lok sabha Election 2019. Watch this video to know more.

India Election watch: Major states record hight voter turnout on first phase of LS election

Watch 'India Election Watch' to get the deep details and knowledge of India's election.

India Election Watch; 08th April, 2019

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Muslims want to rise above religious identity

Pakistan will release 360 Indian in its custody in this month with the first batch of 100 Indians being released on Monday. Most of them are fishermen who are from Gujarat and some from UP.

Next batch of 100 will be released on April 15, followed by 100 on April 22 and 60 on April 29.

The development comes in the backdrop of New Delhi sending a note verbale to Pakistan high commission on Tuesday calling for the release of the 385 Indian fishermen who have completed their sentences.&nbsp;

503 Indian fishermen are believed to be in Pakistan’s custody of which Pakistan has acknowledged the custody of 483 fishermen who are Indian or believed-to-be-Indian in their jails.&nbsp;

Since 2014, the Indian Government has been able to secure the release of 1749 Indian prisoners, including 1725 fishermen along with 57 boats.

In December of 2018, Pakistan released Indian Citizen Hamid Nehal Ansari after six years in jail. Hamid Nehal was arrested by Pakistani authorities in 2012 after he was caught with a fake passport. He had gone to Pakistan via Afghanistan on a fake passport to meet a girl he befriended on Facebook.

It was followed by the release of two Pakistani nationals by India--Imran Warsi and Abdullah Shah. Imran Wari had come to India in 2004 on a valid visa but overstayed after marrying an Indian girl. He was caught after trying to make a fake passport in Bhopal and was released in 2018, after spending 10 years in jail. Shah, an autistic from swat, crossed over to India to meet Shah Rukh Khan in 2017.

In October 2017, India had suggested Pakistan that the two sides could work together for the release and repatriation of elderly, women and mentally unsound prisoners on humanitarian grounds and proposed to revive the mechanism of Joint Judicial Committee.

In the past 6 months, the ministry of external affairs via--3 note verbale, one on 1 January, other in December and November-- had called on Islamabad to organise an early visit of Joint Judicial Committee to Pakistan but it has got no response.

Pakistan will release 360 Indian in its custody in this month with the first batch of 100 Indians being released on Monday. Most of them are fishermen who are from Gujarat and some from UP.

Pakistan will release 360 Indian in its custody in this month with the first batch of 100 Indians being released on Monday. Most of them are fishermen who are from Gujarat and some from UP. Next batch of 100 will be released on April 15, followed by 100 on April 22 and 60 on April 29. The development comes in the backdrop of New Delhi sending a note verbale to Pakistan high commission on Tuesday calling for the release of the 385 Indian fishermen who have completed their sentences. 503 Indian fishermen are believed to be in Pakistan’s custody of which Pakistan has acknowledged the custody of 483 fishermen who are Indian or believed-to-be-Indian in their jails. Since 2014, the Indian Government has been able to secure the release of 1749 Indian prisoners, including 1725 fishermen along with 57 boats. In December of 2018, Pakistan released Indian Citizen Hamid Nehal Ansari after six years in jail. Hamid Nehal was arrested by Pakistani authorities in 2012 after he was caught with a fake passport. He had gone to Pakistan via Afghanistan on a fake passport to meet a girl he befriended on Facebook. It was followed by the release of two Pakistani nationals by India--Imran Warsi and Abdullah Shah. Imran Wari had come to India in 2004 on a valid visa but overstayed after marrying an Indian girl. He was caught after trying to make a fake passport in Bhopal and was released in 2018, after spending 10 years in jail. Shah, an autistic from swat, crossed over to India to meet Shah Rukh Khan in 2017. In October 2017, India had suggested Pakistan that the two sides could work together for the release and repatriation of elderly, women and mentally unsound prisoners on humanitarian grounds and proposed to revive the mechanism of Joint Judicial Committee. In the past 6 months, the ministry of external affairs via--3 note verbale, one on 1 January, other in December and November-- had called on Islamabad to organise an early visit of Joint Judicial Committee to Pakistan but it has got no response.

Pakistan to release 360 Indian prisoners this month

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-advani-writes-blog-modi-says-he-perfectly-sums-up-true-essence-of-bjp-207968">Prime Minister Narendra Modi </a>raised the terror issue to take on the Opposition while addressing an election rally in Amroha in Uttar Pradesh on Friday.

"Replying to terrorists in their own language is not being liked by some people. When India hits back at the enemy, some people here start crying," the prime minister said, adding," When Pakistan is being exposed in front of the world these people start speaking in support of Pakistan."

The prime minister thanked the UAE government for honouring him with the Zayed medal asserting that "this is not an award given to Modi but to the Indian people."

"Congress, Samajwadi Party(SP) or BSP, they have all put your life and future in danger," PM Modi said at the election rally in Amroha.

"Governments of 'Bua' (Mayawati) and 'Babua' (Akhilesh Yadav) released terror accused, they were kind to them," the prime minister said.

PM Modi will later travel to Dehradun in Uttarakhand to address another election rally today. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised the terror issue to take on the Opposition while addressing an election rally in Amroha in Uttar Pradesh on Friday. "Replying to terrorists in their own language is not being liked by some people.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised the terror issue to take on the Opposition while addressing an election rally in Amroha in Uttar Pradesh on Friday. "Replying to terrorists in their own language is not being liked by some people. When India hits back at the enemy, some people here start crying," the prime minister said, adding," When Pakistan is being exposed in front of the world these people start speaking in support of Pakistan." The prime minister thanked the UAE government for honouring him with the Zayed medal asserting that "this is not an award given to Modi but to the Indian people." "Congress, Samajwadi Party(SP) or BSP, they have all put your life and future in danger," PM Modi said at the election rally in Amroha. "Governments of 'Bua' (Mayawati) and 'Babua' (Akhilesh Yadav) released terror accused, they were kind to them," the prime minister said. PM Modi will later travel to Dehradun in Uttarakhand to address another election rally today.

Replying to terrorists in their own language not liked by some people: PM Modi in Amroha rally

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

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya Monday launched a veiled attack on SP chief Akhilesh Yadav, asking how a person disloyal to his father could forge a relationship of bua-bhatija and wondered how long this tie would last.

He claimed that BSP chief Mayawati and Yadav have become "weak" by forging the SP-BSP-RLD alliance.&nbsp;

"Neither Akhilesh Yadav has been able to strengthen neither himself, nor Mayawati in the 'gathbandhan'. In fact, both have become weak by forging this alliance. A person who has not been loyal to his father and uncle, how can he forge a fake relationship of bua (aunt) and bhatija (nephew)? Do you think that such a relationship will go on?" Maurya told PTI in an interview.

Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati are often referred to as bua-bhatija.

"They are disturbed over whether the SP's votes will be transferred to the BSP or vice-versa. And, when they come to know that transfer of votes is hitting a roadblock, then their tension and blood pressure level shoot up," he added.

The BJP leader coined new names for the rival political parties, describing the SP as 'Samaapt Party', the BSP as 'Bilkul Samaapt Party' and the RLD as 'Roj Ludhaktaa Dal'. He said the character of the three parties was in front of everyone.

He claimed that SP and BSP leaders were active only on social media, unlike BJP leaders who toil on the ground and had a vision for the country. 
When asked to about the threat posed by the alliance of anti-BJP parties, Maurya said, "We do not consider the gathbandhan a threat or a challenge to the BJP, either in the western part of the state or the eastern part, northern or southern part. I am of the view that along with the SP, BSP, RLD, even the Congress is a part of the alliance."

He said the alliance has generated a false alarm that specific castes are with the SP, a particular community is with the BSP, and Muslim votes will add to their tally.&nbsp;

"But, they have forgotten that the madness of casteism which they spread till 2014 has been effectively overpowered by our nationalism, developmentalism, gareebvaad (concern for the poor) and kisaanwaad (concern for the farmers)," Maurya said, exuded confidence that the margin of victory in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls will exceed that of 2014.&nbsp;

On the saffron party's chances in the Congress bastions of Amethi and Rae Bareli, the senior state BJP leader said, "We are winning Amethi and Rae Bareli. On Azamgarh seat, our candidate will be declared. Our margin of defeat in Azamgarh was less in 2014, and this time, we nuetralised it. All the seats where the party had lost in 2014 will be reclaimed."

Referring to the Congress's minimum income scheme, he said it does not suit any Congress leader, especially those born in the Gandhi family, to speaking about poverty alleviation, as in 10 years of the Manmohan Singh government, they were unable to provide justice to the country's poor.&nbsp;

"It is that family which did injustice to the people of the country. Today when steps have been taken to give justice, they are becoming restless, as those who are out on bail are apprehensive of going to Tihar jail," Maurya said.&nbsp;

"None of the rival political parties' aim is to give justice to the people of the country or eradicate poverty, terrorism and corruption. Their only aim is to stop Narendra Modi from becoming the prime minister, while the people want Modiji to become the next prime minister," the deputy chief minister said.

He said none of the BJP's political opponents had the courage to question the party on the issue of development, national security and welfare programmes initiated to eradicate poverty, and the success of the Kumbh mela held in Allahabad.&nbsp;

Maurya said the opposition today is devoid of any issue, leader and policy.

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya Monday launched a veiled attack on SP chief Akhilesh Yadav, asking how a person disloyal to his father could forge a relationship of bua-bhatija and wondered how long this tie would last.

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya Monday launched a veiled attack on SP chief Akhilesh Yadav, asking how a person disloyal to his father could forge a relationship of bua-bhatija and wondered how long this tie would last. He claimed that BSP chief Mayawati and Yadav have become "weak" by forging the SP-BSP-RLD alliance. "Neither Akhilesh Yadav has been able to strengthen neither himself, nor Mayawati in the 'gathbandhan'. In fact, both have become weak by forging this alliance. A person who has not been loyal to his father and uncle, how can he forge a fake relationship of bua (aunt) and bhatija (nephew)? Do you think that such a relationship will go on?" Maurya told PTI in an interview. Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati are often referred to as bua-bhatija. "They are disturbed over whether the SP's votes will be transferred to the BSP or vice-versa. And, when they come to know that transfer of votes is hitting a roadblock, then their tension and blood pressure level shoot up," he added. The BJP leader coined new names for the rival political parties, describing the SP as 'Samaapt Party', the BSP as 'Bilkul Samaapt Party' and the RLD as 'Roj Ludhaktaa Dal'. He said the character of the three parties was in front of everyone. He claimed that SP and BSP leaders were active only on social media, unlike BJP leaders who toil on the ground and had a vision for the country. When asked to about the threat posed by the alliance of anti-BJP parties, Maurya said, "We do not consider the gathbandhan a threat or a challenge to the BJP, either in the western part of the state or the eastern part, northern or southern part. I am of the view that along with the SP, BSP, RLD, even the Congress is a part of the alliance." He said the alliance has generated a false alarm that specific castes are with the SP, a particular community is with the BSP, and Muslim votes will add to their tally. "But, they have forgotten that the madness of casteism which they spread till 2014 has been effectively overpowered by our nationalism, developmentalism, gareebvaad (concern for the poor) and kisaanwaad (concern for the farmers)," Maurya said, exuded confidence that the margin of victory in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls will exceed that of 2014. On the saffron party's chances in the Congress bastions of Amethi and Rae Bareli, the senior state BJP leader said, "We are winning Amethi and Rae Bareli. On Azamgarh seat, our candidate will be declared. Our margin of defeat in Azamgarh was less in 2014, and this time, we nuetralised it. All the seats where the party had lost in 2014 will be reclaimed." Referring to the Congress's minimum income scheme, he said it does not suit any Congress leader, especially those born in the Gandhi family, to speaking about poverty alleviation, as in 10 years of the Manmohan Singh government, they were unable to provide justice to the country's poor. "It is that family which did injustice to the people of the country. Today when steps have been taken to give justice, they are becoming restless, as those who are out on bail are apprehensive of going to Tihar jail," Maurya said. "None of the rival political parties' aim is to give justice to the people of the country or eradicate poverty, terrorism and corruption. Their only aim is to stop Narendra Modi from becoming the prime minister, while the people want Modiji to become the next prime minister," the deputy chief minister said. He said none of the BJP's political opponents had the courage to question the party on the issue of development, national security and welfare programmes initiated to eradicate poverty, and the success of the Kumbh mela held in Allahabad. Maurya said the opposition today is devoid of any issue, leader and policy.

How can person disloyal to father forge bua-bhatija relationship: Keshav Prasad Maurya on Akhilesh

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday said that the BJP will win more than 74 Lok Sabha seats in the state in the Lok Sabha elections. He also termed the alliance of Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party as "unmatchable."

“BJP was never weak. It won 73 seats in 2014. BJP won 325 seats in 2017 Assembly elections. In the ensuing Lok Sabha elections, BJP will win more than 74 seats,” the Chief Minister claimed while addressing a press conference here.

Taking a dig at the SP-BSP alliance, the Chief Minister said, “Unmatchable alliance won't succeed. Oil and water cannot be together.”

The Chief Minister was speaking at a press conference organised to induct SP leaders Choudhary Virendra Singh, Manish Chauhan, and Harvinder Chauhan into the party. UP BJP president Mahendranath Pandey was also present on the occasion.

Virendra Singh is currently an MLC from the Samajwadi Party. He has been elected to the state legislature six times and was a Cabinet minister in the Samajwadi Party government.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Pandey described Virendra Singh as someone with “great reputation” in the Gurjar community and especially in the western Uttar Pradesh.

Welcoming them in BJP family, the Chief Minister said that he was happy to see that “the people who wish to see a safe and prosperous India are committed to making Narendra Modi the Prime Minister of this country again.”

“I trust they (newly inducted leaders) will contribute immensely to this mission of development and nationalism, a mission that is embedded with Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, which means that development to everyone without any discrimination,” the Chief Minister said.

Seven-phase Lok Sabha polls are set to begin on April 11 and will go on till May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

In&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh, where 80 seats are at stake, polling will be held during all seven phases.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday said that the BJP will win more than 74 Lok Sabha seats in the state in the Lok Sabha elections. He also termed the alliance of Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party as "unmatchable.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday said that the BJP will win more than 74 Lok Sabha seats in the state in the Lok Sabha elections. He also termed the alliance of Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party as "unmatchable." “BJP was never weak. It won 73 seats in 2014. BJP won 325 seats in 2017 Assembly elections. In the ensuing Lok Sabha elections, BJP will win more than 74 seats,” the Chief Minister claimed while addressing a press conference here. Taking a dig at the SP-BSP alliance, the Chief Minister said, “Unmatchable alliance won't succeed. Oil and water cannot be together.” The Chief Minister was speaking at a press conference organised to induct SP leaders Choudhary Virendra Singh, Manish Chauhan, and Harvinder Chauhan into the party. UP BJP president Mahendranath Pandey was also present on the occasion. Virendra Singh is currently an MLC from the Samajwadi Party. He has been elected to the state legislature six times and was a Cabinet minister in the Samajwadi Party government. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Pandey described Virendra Singh as someone with “great reputation” in the Gurjar community and especially in the western Uttar Pradesh. Welcoming them in BJP family, the Chief Minister said that he was happy to see that “the people who wish to see a safe and prosperous India are committed to making Narendra Modi the Prime Minister of this country again.” “I trust they (newly inducted leaders) will contribute immensely to this mission of development and nationalism, a mission that is embedded with Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, which means that development to everyone without any discrimination,” the Chief Minister said. Seven-phase Lok Sabha polls are set to begin on April 11 and will go on till May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. In Uttar Pradesh, where 80 seats are at stake, polling will be held during all seven phases.

Will win more than 74 Lok Sabha seats in UP: Yogi Adityanath

Nishad Party chief Sanjay Nishad on Saturday said that on Friday he met with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and that the meeting went well. Nishad stated that Adityanath assured him yesterday "that our grievances will be heard and dealt with".

Nishad added that his party will contest on its own symbol and that "NDA will decide who will contest from where".&nbsp;

Nishad Party chief Sanjay Nishad on Friday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-nishad-party-quits-alliance-with-spbsp-in-uttar-pradesh-206583">called off the alliance with SP, BSP in Uttar Pradesh</a>. Nishad noted that his party workers and the core committee were upset with the alliance.&nbsp;

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Nishad Party chief, Sanjay Nishad, on joining NDA alliance for Lok Sabha elections: UP CM assured me yesterday that our grievances will be heard &amp; dealt with. Nishad Party will contest on its own symbol. NDA will decide who will contest from where <a href="https://t.co/9FZJHjUula">pic.twitter.com/9FZJHjUula</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1111969764107128837?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Akhilesh Yadav had said he'll make an announcement on seats for our party. But they didn't put our name on poster/letter or anything. My party workers, authorities, core committee were upset," Nishad told media adding that his party is now free to explore other option or to even go solo in the ensuing general elections.&nbsp;

"So the Nishad party has taken a decision today that we are not with the 'gathbandhan', we are free, can fight elections independently and can look for other options as well. The party is free now," the party chief noted.&nbsp;

Later in the day, Nishad was spotted meeting with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.&nbsp;

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Tuesday announced that Nishad Party and Janvadi Party (Socialist) are now a part of Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party-Rashtriya Lok Dal alliance in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

According to the seat-sharing arrangement, Samajwadi Party will contest 37 seats while BSP will fight on 38. Ajit Singh-led Rashtriya Lok Dal was being considered the third wheel of the alliance.&nbsp;

Lok Sabha 2019 will be held in seven phases starting April 11, ending on May 19. Uttar Pradesh will cast vote in seven phases.&nbsp;

Nishad Party chief Sanjay Nishad on Saturday said that on Friday he met with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and that the meeting went well. Nishad stated that Adityanath assured him yesterday "that our grievances will be heard and dealt with".

Nishad Party chief Sanjay Nishad on Saturday said that on Friday he met with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and that the meeting went well. Nishad stated that Adityanath assured him yesterday "that our grievances will be heard and dealt with". Nishad added that his party will contest on its own symbol and that "NDA will decide who will contest from where". Nishad Party chief Sanjay Nishad on Friday called off the alliance with SP, BSP in Uttar Pradesh. Nishad noted that his party workers and the core committee were upset with the alliance. Nishad Party chief, Sanjay Nishad, on joining NDA alliance for Lok Sabha elections: UP CM assured me yesterday that our grievances will be heard & dealt with. Nishad Party will contest on its own symbol. NDA will decide who will contest from where pic.twitter.com/9FZJHjUula — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 30, 2019 × "Akhilesh Yadav had said he'll make an announcement on seats for our party. But they didn't put our name on poster/letter or anything. My party workers, authorities, core committee were upset," Nishad told media adding that his party is now free to explore other option or to even go solo in the ensuing general elections. "So the Nishad party has taken a decision today that we are not with the 'gathbandhan', we are free, can fight elections independently and can look for other options as well. The party is free now," the party chief noted. Later in the day, Nishad was spotted meeting with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Tuesday announced that Nishad Party and Janvadi Party (Socialist) are now a part of Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party-Rashtriya Lok Dal alliance in Uttar Pradesh. According to the seat-sharing arrangement, Samajwadi Party will contest 37 seats while BSP will fight on 38. Ajit Singh-led Rashtriya Lok Dal was being considered the third wheel of the alliance. Lok Sabha 2019 will be held in seven phases starting April 11, ending on May 19. Uttar Pradesh will cast vote in seven phases.

Lok Sabha polls: 'NDA will decide who will contest from where,' says Nishad party chief after quitting SP-BSP alliance

Nishad Party chief Sanjay Nishad on Friday called off the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-nishad-party-and-janvadi-party-socialist-join-sp-bsp-rld-alliance-in-uttar-pradesh-205715">alliance with SP, BSP in Uttar Pradesh</a>. Nishad noted that his party workers and the core committee were upset with the alliance.&nbsp;

"Akhilesh Yadav had said he'll make an announcement on seats for our party. But they didn't put our name on poster/letter or anything. My party workers, authorities, core committee were upset," Nishad told media adding that his party is now free to explore other option or to even go solo in the ensuing general elections.&nbsp;

"So the Nishad party has taken a decision today that we are not with the 'gathbandhan', we are free, can fight elections independently and can look for other options as well. The party is free now," the party chief noted.&nbsp;

Later in the day, Nishad was spotted meeting with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.&nbsp;

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Nishad Party chief Sanjay Nishad meets Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Lucknow <a href="https://t.co/MNvdVzOiXQ">pic.twitter.com/MNvdVzOiXQ</a>
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The development came just a few days after Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Tuesday announced that Nishad Party and Janvadi Party (Socialist) are now a part of Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party-Rashtriya Lok Dal alliance in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

According to the seat-sharing arrangement, Samajwadi Party will contest 37 seats while BSP will fight on 38. Ajit Singh-led Rashtriya Lok Dal was being considered the third wheel of the alliance.&nbsp;

Lok Sabha 2019 will be held in seven phases starting April 11, ending on May 19. Uttar Pradesh will cast vote in seven phases.&nbsp;

Nishad Party chief Sanjay Nishad on Friday called off the alliance with SP, BSP in Uttar Pradesh. Nishad noted that his party workers and the core committee were upset with the alliance.

Nishad Party chief Sanjay Nishad on Friday called off the alliance with SP, BSP in Uttar Pradesh. Nishad noted that his party workers and the core committee were upset with the alliance. "Akhilesh Yadav had said he'll make an announcement on seats for our party. But they didn't put our name on poster/letter or anything. My party workers, authorities, core committee were upset," Nishad told media adding that his party is now free to explore other option or to even go solo in the ensuing general elections. "So the Nishad party has taken a decision today that we are not with the 'gathbandhan', we are free, can fight elections independently and can look for other options as well. The party is free now," the party chief noted. Later in the day, Nishad was spotted meeting with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Nishad Party chief Sanjay Nishad meets Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Lucknow pic.twitter.com/MNvdVzOiXQ — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 29, 2019 × The development came just a few days after Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Tuesday announced that Nishad Party and Janvadi Party (Socialist) are now a part of Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party-Rashtriya Lok Dal alliance in Uttar Pradesh. According to the seat-sharing arrangement, Samajwadi Party will contest 37 seats while BSP will fight on 38. Ajit Singh-led Rashtriya Lok Dal was being considered the third wheel of the alliance. Lok Sabha 2019 will be held in seven phases starting April 11, ending on May 19. Uttar Pradesh will cast vote in seven phases.

Lok Sabha polls: Nishad Party quits alliance with SP, BSP in Uttar Pradesh

Ground report from Uttar Pradesh weeks before Lok Sabha elections begin.

Video blog: How cow has become a political issue in UP

Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on another one of his campaign blitzkriegs today. He is currently speaking in Uttar Pradesh's Meerut, after which he will take in two more states — Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir — on Thursday itself.&nbsp;

"Five years ago, when I sought your blessings, you gave me a lot of love," Modi said in Meerut.&nbsp;

"I had said that I will return the blessings and the love with interest, and I had also said that I will give account of the work that I have done," he added.&nbsp;

Modi then said that he would give his "hisab", but added that he would also ask others for theirs.&nbsp;

"Apna hisab doonga, saath saath doosra ka hisab bhi lunga. Ye dono kaam saath saath chalne waale hain. Tabhi to hoga hisab barabar (I will give my account, but will also ask others for theirs. Both will be done together. Only then will accounts be settled)," he said.&nbsp;

"Aur aap to jaante hain main chowkidaar hu. Aur chowkidaar kabhi nainsaafi nahi karta hai (You know that I am Chowkidar. And Chowkidar will never do injustice)," he said&nbsp;

"Hisab hoga, sabka hoga, aur baari baari se hoga (The accounts will be settled, one by one)," he added.&nbsp;

Modi also made mention of Mission Shakti, in which India shot down a satellite in space on Wednesday.&nbsp;

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PM Narendra Modi at a public rally in Meerut: Zameen ho, aasmaan ho, ya fir antriksh, surgical strike ka saahas aapke isi chowkidaar ki sarkaar ne dikhaya pic.twitter.com/W2TK0Q7OvG
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"Whether on the ground, the sky, or space, only Chowkidar has the courage to conduct a surgical strike," he said.&nbsp;

Modi will next speak in Rudrapur.&nbsp;

India will go to the polls on April 11 next month. Voting will be carried out over seven phases and will continue up to May 19.&nbsp;

The results will be out on May 23.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on another one of his campaign blitzkriegs today. He is currently speaking in Uttar Pradesh's Meerut, after which he will take in two more states — Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir — on Thursday itself.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on another one of his campaign blitzkriegs today. He is currently speaking in Uttar Pradesh's Meerut, after which he will take in two more states — Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir — on Thursday itself. "Five years ago, when I sought your blessings, you gave me a lot of love," Modi said in Meerut. "I had said that I will return the blessings and the love with interest, and I had also said that I will give account of the work that I have done," he added. Modi then said that he would give his "hisab", but added that he would also ask others for theirs. "Apna hisab doonga, saath saath doosra ka hisab bhi lunga. Ye dono kaam saath saath chalne waale hain. Tabhi to hoga hisab barabar (I will give my account, but will also ask others for theirs. Both will be done together. Only then will accounts be settled)," he said. "Aur aap to jaante hain main chowkidaar hu. Aur chowkidaar kabhi nainsaafi nahi karta hai (You know that I am Chowkidar. And Chowkidar will never do injustice)," he said "Hisab hoga, sabka hoga, aur baari baari se hoga (The accounts will be settled, one by one)," he added. Modi also made mention of Mission Shakti, in which India shot down a satellite in space on Wednesday. PM Narendra Modi at a public rally in Meerut: Zameen ho, aasmaan ho, ya fir antriksh, surgical strike ka saahas aapke isi chowkidaar ki sarkaar ne dikhaya pic.twitter.com/W2TK0Q7OvG — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 28, 2019 × "Whether on the ground, the sky, or space, only Chowkidar has the courage to conduct a surgical strike," he said. Modi will next speak in Rudrapur. India will go to the polls on April 11 next month. Voting will be carried out over seven phases and will continue up to May 19. The results will be out on May 23.

Will give account of last 5 years, but will also ask others for theirs: PM Modi

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra renewed Congress pitch on agriculture and jobs as Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation&nbsp;on successful ASAT mission carried out by the DRDO scientists.&nbsp;

Though Priyanka Gandhi congratulated the scientists, she made it a point to mention that it was established by India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/my-final-goal-is-the-2022-assembly-elections-in-uttar-pradesh-priyanka-gandhi-vadra-196999">Priyanka Gandhi who is on</a> a three-day visit to Amethi&nbsp;also countered BJP’s narrative that Congress perpetuates poverty for electoral end.&nbsp;

“Lot of work has been done. I’m not saying that all the work has been done but progress has also happened under Congress rule,” said Priyanka Gandhi.

The UP east general secretary attacked the ruling dispensation on the ground that the Modi government failed on the employment front. Priyanka also attacked the BJP on agricultural distress and charged the government for rising seed and fertilizer prices.&nbsp;

“Farmers are in debt. The issue is that there is gross unemployment. Young people are unemployed, and I see them everywhere,” said Priyanka Gandhi. She said that the economy is in shambles and of public importance must be discussed during Lok Sabha elections.

When asked a question on whether she would like to contest Lok Sabha elections, she said, "Why not. I would like to contest the elections if my party asks me to do so.” Though she added that she would like to focus on the organization and said that now she is a full-time politician.&nbsp;

Priyanka Gandhi is on a three-day visit to Uttar Pradesh. On March 28th, she will be in Ayodhya where she will be visiting the famous Hanumangarhi temple. She is also expected to do a roadshow in the city.

When asked whether she would visit Ram Lala Virajman, she remained non-committal and said that she would go to places visited by her brother Rahul Gandhi.

Priyanka Gandhi also held a nine-hour long meeting with booth workers of Amethi at Musafirkhana. She asked the booth workers to ensure that booths are not unattended and BJP’s failures must be highlighted.&nbsp;

Amethi is Congress president Rahul Gandhi’s constituency. BJP has again fielded Union Cabinet Minister Smriti Irani against Rahul.&nbsp;

In 2014, the winning margin of Rahul Gandhi had declined. Priyanka will be conducting a similar meeting with booth workers on Thursday in Rae Bareilly from where her mother Sonia Gandhi is contesting elections. &nbsp;

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra renewed Congress pitch on agriculture and jobs as Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on successful ASAT mission carried out by the DRDO scientists.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra renewed Congress pitch on agriculture and jobs as Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on successful ASAT mission carried out by the DRDO scientists. Though Priyanka Gandhi congratulated the scientists, she made it a point to mention that it was established by India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Priyanka Gandhi who is on a three-day visit to Amethi also countered BJP’s narrative that Congress perpetuates poverty for electoral end. “Lot of work has been done. I’m not saying that all the work has been done but progress has also happened under Congress rule,” said Priyanka Gandhi. The UP east general secretary attacked the ruling dispensation on the ground that the Modi government failed on the employment front. Priyanka also attacked the BJP on agricultural distress and charged the government for rising seed and fertilizer prices. “Farmers are in debt. The issue is that there is gross unemployment. Young people are unemployed, and I see them everywhere,” said Priyanka Gandhi. She said that the economy is in shambles and of public importance must be discussed during Lok Sabha elections. When asked a question on whether she would like to contest Lok Sabha elections, she said, "Why not. I would like to contest the elections if my party asks me to do so.” Though she added that she would like to focus on the organization and said that now she is a full-time politician. Priyanka Gandhi is on a three-day visit to Uttar Pradesh. On March 28th, she will be in Ayodhya where she will be visiting the famous Hanumangarhi temple. She is also expected to do a roadshow in the city. When asked whether she would visit Ram Lala Virajman, she remained non-committal and said that she would go to places visited by her brother Rahul Gandhi. Priyanka Gandhi also held a nine-hour long meeting with booth workers of Amethi at Musafirkhana. She asked the booth workers to ensure that booths are not unattended and BJP’s failures must be highlighted. Amethi is Congress president Rahul Gandhi’s constituency. BJP has again fielded Union Cabinet Minister Smriti Irani against Rahul. In 2014, the winning margin of Rahul Gandhi had declined. Priyanka will be conducting a similar meeting with booth workers on Thursday in Rae Bareilly from where her mother Sonia Gandhi is contesting elections.

Priyanka renews agrarian pitch for Congress in Lok Sabha elections

In politically crucial Uttar Pradesh, the focus will not only be on the performance of political parties but also on the VIPs seats, including those of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi.

The poll results of the state, which has 80 Lok Sabha seats, can make or mar the prospects of any political party at the Centre.

There will be many seats in the state which will be keenly watched by political observers as any setback there might have great political repercussions.

"UP is the most politically crucial state and it results set the tone and tenor of national politics. All eyes will be here, especially on VIP seats where prominent leaders are in the fray," senior journalist JP Shukla said.

"Whether the state is going to give the next prime minister or not is the answer everyone will be looking for with the performance of political parties," he said.

While the outcome of the prime minister's Varanasi seat will be watched globally, other seats like Amethi and Raebareli of Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi respectively will be of equal interest to the people.

During the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Modi's slogan that "I have not come here...Mother Ganga has called me" struck an emotional chord with the people, who elected him as their representative.

During his recent visit, Modi invoked Lord Vishwanath, saying, "I might have been called here to fulfil his dream to see the city developed."

In Amethi, Union minister Smriti Irani will challenge Rahul Gandhi. She has been spending a lot of time with the voters there, making the BJP workers feel that she will make the Congress chief uncomfortable this time.

Sonia Gandhi has been representing Rae Bareli since 1999, while Rahul Gandhi has been an MP from Amethi since 2004.

The seats of Kannauj, held by SP chief Akhilesh Yadav's wife Dimple Yadav, Badaun, held by Dharmendra Yadav (SP), and Azamgarh, from where SP patron Mulayam Singh Yadav won in 2014, will also be crucial.

While Dimple Yadav and Dharmendra will contest from their traditional seats, Mulayam Singh, this time, will be contesting from the Mainpuri seat.

Akhilesh Yadav has decided to contest from Azamgarh after a formal request from the district unit.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh is once again in the fray from the Lucknow seat, a BJP stronghold.

Bollywood star Hema Malini is contesting again from Mathura, while the Ghaziabad seat held by Union minister Gen VK Singh (retd) will also be on the list of constituencies to watch.

Another important seat will be of BJP leader Varun Gandhi, who is likely to leave the Sultanpur seat and contest from Pilibhit, represented by his mother and Union minister Maneka Gandhi.

While these polls will be a litmus test for the SP-BSP alliance, it would be a challenge for the BJP to repeat its 2014 performance of winning 73 seats, including two of Apna Dal.

The prestige of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya will be at stake on seats like Gorakhpur and Phulpur won by them in 2014 but subsequently frittered away to the opposition in the bypolls last year.

The charisma of Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will also be tested in these polls and she is trying to woo voters by reaching them.&nbsp;

The prestige of Congress state chief Rajbabbar, who is contesting from Fatehpur Sikri will also be at stake.

In politically crucial Uttar Pradesh, the focus will not only be on the performance of political parties but also on the VIPs seats, including those of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi.

In politically crucial Uttar Pradesh, the focus will not only be on the performance of political parties but also on the VIPs seats, including those of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi. The poll results of the state, which has 80 Lok Sabha seats, can make or mar the prospects of any political party at the Centre. There will be many seats in the state which will be keenly watched by political observers as any setback there might have great political repercussions. "UP is the most politically crucial state and it results set the tone and tenor of national politics. All eyes will be here, especially on VIP seats where prominent leaders are in the fray," senior journalist JP Shukla said. "Whether the state is going to give the next prime minister or not is the answer everyone will be looking for with the performance of political parties," he said. While the outcome of the prime minister's Varanasi seat will be watched globally, other seats like Amethi and Raebareli of Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi respectively will be of equal interest to the people. During the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Modi's slogan that "I have not come here...Mother Ganga has called me" struck an emotional chord with the people, who elected him as their representative. During his recent visit, Modi invoked Lord Vishwanath, saying, "I might have been called here to fulfil his dream to see the city developed." In Amethi, Union minister Smriti Irani will challenge Rahul Gandhi. She has been spending a lot of time with the voters there, making the BJP workers feel that she will make the Congress chief uncomfortable this time. Sonia Gandhi has been representing Rae Bareli since 1999, while Rahul Gandhi has been an MP from Amethi since 2004. The seats of Kannauj, held by SP chief Akhilesh Yadav's wife Dimple Yadav, Badaun, held by Dharmendra Yadav (SP), and Azamgarh, from where SP patron Mulayam Singh Yadav won in 2014, will also be crucial. While Dimple Yadav and Dharmendra will contest from their traditional seats, Mulayam Singh, this time, will be contesting from the Mainpuri seat. Akhilesh Yadav has decided to contest from Azamgarh after a formal request from the district unit. Home Minister Rajnath Singh is once again in the fray from the Lucknow seat, a BJP stronghold. Bollywood star Hema Malini is contesting again from Mathura, while the Ghaziabad seat held by Union minister Gen VK Singh (retd) will also be on the list of constituencies to watch. Another important seat will be of BJP leader Varun Gandhi, who is likely to leave the Sultanpur seat and contest from Pilibhit, represented by his mother and Union minister Maneka Gandhi. While these polls will be a litmus test for the SP-BSP alliance, it would be a challenge for the BJP to repeat its 2014 performance of winning 73 seats, including two of Apna Dal. The prestige of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya will be at stake on seats like Gorakhpur and Phulpur won by them in 2014 but subsequently frittered away to the opposition in the bypolls last year. The charisma of Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will also be tested in these polls and she is trying to woo voters by reaching them. The prestige of Congress state chief Rajbabbar, who is contesting from Fatehpur Sikri will also be at stake.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: All eyes on Uttar Pradesh’s VIP constituencies as heavyweights slug it out

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) on Friday announced its candidates for 11 Lok Sabha constituencies in Uttar Pradesh.

The BSP, which is contesting the elections in alliance with the Samajwadi Party and the Rashtriya Lok Dal, has fielded Haji Fajalurahman from Saharanpur, Malook Nagar from Bijnor and Girish Chandra from Nagina (SC).

The party also named Kunwar Danish Ali as its candidate from Amroha, Haji Mohammad Yakub from Meerut, Satbir Nagar from Gautam Budha Nagar and Yogesh Verma from Bulandsahr (SC) seat.

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Bahujan Samaj Party release its list of 11 candidates for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/8KcyvCT8hn">pic.twitter.com/8KcyvCT8hn</a>
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The BSP, which is contesting 38 seats, has named Ajit Baliyan from Aligarh, Manoj Kumar Soni from Agra (SC), Rajvir Singh from Fatehpur and Ruchi Veera from Aonla seat.

The BSP did not win a single Lok Sabha seat in 2014 election.&nbsp;

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) on Friday announced its candidates for 11 Lok Sabha constituencies in Uttar Pradesh. The BSP, which is contesting the elections in alliance with the Samajwadi Party and the Rashtriya Lok Dal, has fielded Haji Fajalurahman from Saharanpur, Malook Nagar from Bijnor and Girish Chandra from Nagina (SC).

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) on Friday announced its candidates for 11 Lok Sabha constituencies in Uttar Pradesh. The BSP, which is contesting the elections in alliance with the Samajwadi Party and the Rashtriya Lok Dal, has fielded Haji Fajalurahman from Saharanpur, Malook Nagar from Bijnor and Girish Chandra from Nagina (SC). The party also named Kunwar Danish Ali as its candidate from Amroha, Haji Mohammad Yakub from Meerut, Satbir Nagar from Gautam Budha Nagar and Yogesh Verma from Bulandsahr (SC) seat. Bahujan Samaj Party release its list of 11 candidates for the #LokSabhaElections2019 pic.twitter.com/8KcyvCT8hn — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 22, 2019 × The BSP, which is contesting 38 seats, has named Ajit Baliyan from Aligarh, Manoj Kumar Soni from Agra (SC), Rajvir Singh from Fatehpur and Ruchi Veera from Aonla seat. The BSP did not win a single Lok Sabha seat in 2014 election.

Lok Sabha polls: BSP declares first list of 11 candidates for Uttar Pradesh

NCP chief Sharad Pawar and BSP president Mayawati's opting out of the Lok Sabha polls is a clear indication of a certain victory for the NDA, the Shiv Sena said Friday.

It also claimed Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra would spoil the game for the SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh, reasoning the vote bank of the Congress and Mayawati is similar.

In an editorial in its mouthpiece 'Saamana', the NDA constituent said Pawar and Mayawati not contesting was a sign that the road was clear for Narendra Modi to return victorious as Prime Minister.

"Along with Sharad Pawar, Mayawati too has decided not to contest Lok Sabha polls, the importance of which is that they are out of the prime ministerial race," the Sena editorial said.

Quoting Mayawati, it said she wants to campaign for her party's candidates across the country, hence she chose not to contest herself.

However, the editorial reasoned, the BSP has presence only in Uttar Pradesh, and, therefore, the decision to opt out meant she was running way from a fight.

Pawar has sought a similar escape route from Madha Lok Sabha constituency, it claimed.

Taking a dig at the NCP chief, the Sena said Pawar is trying to unite the entire Opposition but couldn't bring his own family and party members on the same page and therefore had to opt out.

"Ranjitsinh Mohite Patil's decision to leave the NCP and join the BJP is a big blow for Pawar. It will stop the second hand of the NCP's clock, which is anyway running slow," the Sena said sarcastically.

On Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, it said, "In 2014, Dalits and Yadavs had voted heavily for Modi and not a single candidate of Mayawati could win. This scare haunts her even today. Priyanka's 'tourism' visits are getting a good response and there is a fear in Mayawati that the Congress leader will spoil her prospects from wherever she decides to contest," it said.

The editorial went on to claim that Mayawati's prime fear is the Congress and not BJP and one of the reasons for her not contesting is Priyanka's foray in active politics.

"Neither Sharad Pawar nor Mayawati is contesting. Therefore, two people who dreamt of being Prime Minister are no more contenders. This proves the mettle of the NDA," it said.

Pawar and Mayawati's decision is a clear indication that the road for Modi to become PM against is clear and the NDA's win is certain, the Sena said.&nbsp;

NCP chief Sharad Pawar and BSP president Mayawati's opting out of the Lok Sabha polls is a clear indication of a certain victory for the NDA, the Shiv Sena said Friday.

NCP chief Sharad Pawar and BSP president Mayawati's opting out of the Lok Sabha polls is a clear indication of a certain victory for the NDA, the Shiv Sena said Friday. It also claimed Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra would spoil the game for the SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh, reasoning the vote bank of the Congress and Mayawati is similar. In an editorial in its mouthpiece 'Saamana', the NDA constituent said Pawar and Mayawati not contesting was a sign that the road was clear for Narendra Modi to return victorious as Prime Minister. "Along with Sharad Pawar, Mayawati too has decided not to contest Lok Sabha polls, the importance of which is that they are out of the prime ministerial race," the Sena editorial said. Quoting Mayawati, it said she wants to campaign for her party's candidates across the country, hence she chose not to contest herself. However, the editorial reasoned, the BSP has presence only in Uttar Pradesh, and, therefore, the decision to opt out meant she was running way from a fight. Pawar has sought a similar escape route from Madha Lok Sabha constituency, it claimed. Taking a dig at the NCP chief, the Sena said Pawar is trying to unite the entire Opposition but couldn't bring his own family and party members on the same page and therefore had to opt out. "Ranjitsinh Mohite Patil's decision to leave the NCP and join the BJP is a big blow for Pawar. It will stop the second hand of the NCP's clock, which is anyway running slow," the Sena said sarcastically. On Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, it said, "In 2014, Dalits and Yadavs had voted heavily for Modi and not a single candidate of Mayawati could win. This scare haunts her even today. Priyanka's 'tourism' visits are getting a good response and there is a fear in Mayawati that the Congress leader will spoil her prospects from wherever she decides to contest," it said. The editorial went on to claim that Mayawati's prime fear is the Congress and not BJP and one of the reasons for her not contesting is Priyanka's foray in active politics. "Neither Sharad Pawar nor Mayawati is contesting. Therefore, two people who dreamt of being Prime Minister are no more contenders. This proves the mettle of the NDA," it said. Pawar and Mayawati's decision is a clear indication that the road for Modi to become PM against is clear and the NDA's win is certain, the Sena said.

Sharad Pawar, Mayawati not contesting indication of NDA's win: Shiv Sena

BSP supremo <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-will-not-contest-mayawati-drops-out-of-2019-lok-sabha-polls-204488">Mayawati</a> said on Wednesday that she will not be contesting the Lok Sabha polls but later told her supporters not to be "disheartened".&nbsp;

For, she seemed to hint, she could still become prime minister.&nbsp;

"When I became UP CM first time in 1995 I was not member of either UP Assembly or Council. Similarly is provision at the Centre where a person have to be a LS/RS member within 6 months of holding office of minister/PM," Mayawati tweeted.&nbsp;

"Don't disheartened (sic) from my decision not to contest LS poll now," she added.&nbsp;

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is a good example of a prime minister who became a member of parliament after assuming the office of PM. Singh was elected to the Rajya Sabha from Assam.&nbsp;

Mayawati said Wednesday that she had resigned from the Rajya Sabha to devote herself to the party, and that she would like to do the same thing again.&nbsp;

WION's Political Editor Kartikeya Sharma quoted party insiders as saying Mayawati was opting out of the elections because she did not want to be tied down to one constituency but would instead like to concentrate on campaigning for the party. She is expected to campaign outside of her bastion of Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Sharma added that Mayawati also wanted to keep open the option of contesting the 2022 assembly elections.&nbsp;

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When I became UP CM first time in 1995 I was not member of either UP Assembly or Council. Similarly is provision at the Centre where a person have to be a LS/RS member within 6 months of holding office of minister/PM. Don't disheartened from my decision not to contest LS poll now
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&nbsp;

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Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Chief Mayawati: I will not contest the Lok Sabha elections. <a href="https://t.co/88oGmtd6Ww">pic.twitter.com/88oGmtd6Ww</a>
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Having said that, there is also the fact that Mayawati has ceded at least some space to new Dalit leaders like the Bhim Army's Chandrashekhar Azad and the Gujarat MLA Jignesh Mewani. And, said Sharma, should her victory margins now be less than impressive, that will further pull down her stature.&nbsp;

BSP supremo Mayawati said on Wednesday that she will not be contesting the Lok Sabha polls but later told her supporters not to be "disheartened". For, she seemed to hint, she could still become prime minister.

BSP supremo Mayawati said on Wednesday that she will not be contesting the Lok Sabha polls but later told her supporters not to be "disheartened". For, she seemed to hint, she could still become prime minister. "When I became UP CM first time in 1995 I was not member of either UP Assembly or Council. Similarly is provision at the Centre where a person have to be a LS/RS member within 6 months of holding office of minister/PM," Mayawati tweeted. "Don't disheartened (sic) from my decision not to contest LS poll now," she added. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is a good example of a prime minister who became a member of parliament after assuming the office of PM. Singh was elected to the Rajya Sabha from Assam. Mayawati said Wednesday that she had resigned from the Rajya Sabha to devote herself to the party, and that she would like to do the same thing again. WION's Political Editor Kartikeya Sharma quoted party insiders as saying Mayawati was opting out of the elections because she did not want to be tied down to one constituency but would instead like to concentrate on campaigning for the party. She is expected to campaign outside of her bastion of Uttar Pradesh. Sharma added that Mayawati also wanted to keep open the option of contesting the 2022 assembly elections. When I became UP CM first time in 1995 I was not member of either UP Assembly or Council. Similarly is provision at the Centre where a person have to be a LS/RS member within 6 months of holding office of minister/PM. Don't disheartened from my decision not to contest LS poll now — Mayawati (@Mayawati) March 20, 2019 × Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Chief Mayawati: I will not contest the Lok Sabha elections. pic.twitter.com/88oGmtd6Ww — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 20, 2019 × Having said that, there is also the fact that Mayawati has ceded at least some space to new Dalit leaders like the Bhim Army's Chandrashekhar Azad and the Gujarat MLA Jignesh Mewani. And, said Sharma, should her victory margins now be less than impressive, that will further pull down her stature.

After Mayawati says she will not contest Lok Sabha polls, she hints she could still become PM

Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, Pragatisheel Samajwadi Party (Lohia) chief Shivpal Yadav on Tuesday formed a political front, named Progressive Democratic Alliance (PDA), in collaboration with Peace Party, Krishna Patel's faction of Apna Dal, among others.

"We have formed Progressive Democratic Alliance with Peace Party, Ittehad-e-Millat Council, Rashtriya Krantikari Samajwadi Party, former PDP leader Sunil Singh, Krishna Patel's faction of Apna Dal," Yadav told media in Lucknow.

"She (Krishna Patel of Apna Dal) has given me the support. I have a letter for the same. I welcome her," he added.

Earlier this month, Yadav had claimed that he had the support of Samajwadi Party veteran Mulayam Singh Yadav. He also said he was keen to stitch an alliance with the Congress party for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

"I know Neta Ji is with me. I have made this party with his permission. But he is attached to the party that he founded. I had requested to be included in the alliance of secular party. I had requested Akhilesh also. We want an alliance with Congress and have spoken to some leaders of the party as well," Yadav had said on March 10.

There are 80 Lok Sabha seats at stake in Uttar Pradesh, polling for which will be held in all seven phases of the elections starting April 11.

Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, Pragatisheel Samajwadi Party (Lohia) chief Shivpal Yadav on Tuesday formed a political front, named Progressive Democratic Alliance (PDA), in collaboration with Peace Party, Krishna Patel's faction of Apna Dal, among others.

Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, Pragatisheel Samajwadi Party (Lohia) chief Shivpal Yadav on Tuesday formed a political front, named Progressive Democratic Alliance (PDA), in collaboration with Peace Party, Krishna Patel's faction of Apna Dal, among others. "We have formed Progressive Democratic Alliance with Peace Party, Ittehad-e-Millat Council, Rashtriya Krantikari Samajwadi Party, former PDP leader Sunil Singh, Krishna Patel's faction of Apna Dal," Yadav told media in Lucknow. "She (Krishna Patel of Apna Dal) has given me the support. I have a letter for the same. I welcome her," he added. Earlier this month, Yadav had claimed that he had the support of Samajwadi Party veteran Mulayam Singh Yadav. He also said he was keen to stitch an alliance with the Congress party for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. "I know Neta Ji is with me. I have made this party with his permission. But he is attached to the party that he founded. I had requested to be included in the alliance of secular party. I had requested Akhilesh also. We want an alliance with Congress and have spoken to some leaders of the party as well," Yadav had said on March 10. There are 80 Lok Sabha seats at stake in Uttar Pradesh, polling for which will be held in all seven phases of the elections starting April 11.

Shivpal Yadav forms political front, ropes in Peace Party, Krishna Patel's faction of Apna Dal

Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati won't contest Lok Sabha elections 2019

Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati said Wednesday that she will not contest the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

Mayawati is the latest addition to a quickly growing list of party supremos and high-profile leaders who have opted out of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

The list includes India's Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj, who was the first to say she would not be contesting the polls.&nbsp;

NCP chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ncp-chief-sharad-pawar-says-he-will-not-contest-lok-sabha-polls-202608">Sharad Pawar followed her</a>, and now of course there's Mayawati.&nbsp;

The BSP supremo said Wednesday that she had resigned from the Rajya Sabha to devote herself to the party, and that she would like to do the same thing again.&nbsp;

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WION's Political Editor Kartikeya Sharma quoted party insiders as saying Mayawati was opting out of the elections because she did not want to be tied down to one constituency but would instead like to concentrate on campaigning for the party. She is expected to campaign outside of her bastion of Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Sharma added that Mayawati also wanted to keep open the option of contesting the 2022 assembly elections.&nbsp;

Having said that, there is also the fact that Mayawati has ceded at least some space to new Dalit leaders like the Bhim Army's Chandrashekhar Azad and Jignesh Mewani. And should her victory margins now be less than impressive, that will further bring down her stature.&nbsp;

Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati said Wednesday that she will not contest the Lok Sabha elections. Mayawati is the latest addition to a quickly growing list of party supremos and high-profile leaders who have opted out of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati said Wednesday that she will not contest the Lok Sabha elections. Mayawati is the latest addition to a quickly growing list of party supremos and high-profile leaders who have opted out of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The list includes India's Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj, who was the first to say she would not be contesting the polls. NCP chief Sharad Pawar followed her, and now of course there's Mayawati. The BSP supremo said Wednesday that she had resigned from the Rajya Sabha to devote herself to the party, and that she would like to do the same thing again. Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Chief Mayawati: I will not contest the Lok Sabha elections. pic.twitter.com/88oGmtd6Ww — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 20, 2019 × WION's Political Editor Kartikeya Sharma quoted party insiders as saying Mayawati was opting out of the elections because she did not want to be tied down to one constituency but would instead like to concentrate on campaigning for the party. She is expected to campaign outside of her bastion of Uttar Pradesh. Sharma added that Mayawati also wanted to keep open the option of contesting the 2022 assembly elections. Having said that, there is also the fact that Mayawati has ceded at least some space to new Dalit leaders like the Bhim Army's Chandrashekhar Azad and Jignesh Mewani. And should her victory margins now be less than impressive, that will further bring down her stature.

I will not contest: Mayawati drops out of 2019 Lok Sabha polls

After an alliance with the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party, the Rashtriya Lok Dal is looking to regain its base in western UP and win the three seats it will be contesting in the coming Lok Sabha election.

In 2014, the defeat of the then Union minister and Rashtriya Lok Dal president Ajit Singh in Baghpat to BJP's Satyapal Singh, who had resigned as Mumbai Police commissioner just before the election, was "unexpected" for many as he had never lost the seat since 1999.

"The defeat was seen as a big sign of how the BJP was consolidating the dominant Jat vote in its favour. This time, RLD has an opportunity to take a sweet revenge by improving its performance with the help of SP and BSP and get back the Jat vote in its fold," said political analyst Manjula Upadhyay.

RLD leaders are confident of repeating their performance of Kairana LS bypoll last year when they succeeded in getting back Jat votes they had lost to the BJP in 2014.

"During Kairana byelection, RLD leader Jayant Chowdhury's slogan to Jats was 'BJP Ki Poonch Nahi, RLD Ki Mooch Bano'. The call was a hit and he succeeded in invoking the name of his grandfather Chowdhury Charan Singh and reminding the Jats of his legacy," a senior RLD leader said.

During the Kairana bypoll, RLD candidate Tabassum Hasan succeeded in defeating the BJP in the high-profile battle necessitated following the death of BJP MP Hukum Singh.

RLD candidate Tabassum was supported by the Congress, SP and BSP.

Kairana was seen as a testing ground for the new-found opposition unity against the rising BJP then, and the win gave a boost to opposition's efforts to stitch a grand alliance against the saffron party.

Statistically, RLD's performance showed a downward trend after the death of former prime minister Chowdhury Charan Singh.

When Charan Singh died in 1987, Bharatiya Lok Dal had the maximum 83 legislators in Uttar Pradesh. The number dwindled over the years and came down to just one in 2017 assembly polls.

The best performance of RLD under Ajit Singh was in 2002 when it won 14 assembly seats in alliance with the BJP.

The party won five seats in 2009 Lok Sabha polls, again in alliance with the BJP, but during 2012 assembly polls, it forged an alliance with Congress and won nine assembly seats.

In 2014 general election and 2017 assembly polls, the party's performance was worst as it failed to turn voters in its favour and the BJP succeeded in making a dent in its vote bank.

Of the seven seats contested in 2014, the party lost all of them.

Even party chief Ajit Singh slipped to the third spot in his traditional Baghpat seat while his son Jayant Chowdhury lost to Bollywood actor-politician Hema Malini, who contested on a BJP ticket from Mathura.

Other candidates including Amar Singh, Jaya Prada and Rakesh Tikait also could not perform well and all of them lost.

In 2017 UP assembly polls, the RLD had contested 277 of the total 403 seats but won only one, Chhaprauli seat.

After entering an alliance with SP-BSP, the RLD will be contesting Baghpat, Muzaffarnagar and Mathura seats.

While party chief Ajit Singh is likely to contest from Muzaffarnagar, his son Jayant will be contesting from party's traditional seat Baghpat.

Asked about RLD's Lok Sabha prospects, a senior RLD leader said, "This time equations are in our favour. Be it Muslim, backwards, Dalits, Jats or any other community, all are in our favour. Farmers are angry due to non-payment of cane dues."

SP MLC Rajpal Kashyap, when asked about the alliance partner, said, "This is an alliance of ideologies and it will succeed in defeating the communal BJP. We are all committed to ensuring the victory of the alliance candidates.

After an alliance with the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party, the Rashtriya Lok Dal is looking to regain its base in western UP and win the three seats it will be contesting in the coming Lok Sabha election.

After an alliance with the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party, the Rashtriya Lok Dal is looking to regain its base in western UP and win the three seats it will be contesting in the coming Lok Sabha election. In 2014, the defeat of the then Union minister and Rashtriya Lok Dal president Ajit Singh in Baghpat to BJP's Satyapal Singh, who had resigned as Mumbai Police commissioner just before the election, was "unexpected" for many as he had never lost the seat since 1999. "The defeat was seen as a big sign of how the BJP was consolidating the dominant Jat vote in its favour. This time, RLD has an opportunity to take a sweet revenge by improving its performance with the help of SP and BSP and get back the Jat vote in its fold," said political analyst Manjula Upadhyay. RLD leaders are confident of repeating their performance of Kairana LS bypoll last year when they succeeded in getting back Jat votes they had lost to the BJP in 2014. "During Kairana byelection, RLD leader Jayant Chowdhury's slogan to Jats was 'BJP Ki Poonch Nahi, RLD Ki Mooch Bano'. The call was a hit and he succeeded in invoking the name of his grandfather Chowdhury Charan Singh and reminding the Jats of his legacy," a senior RLD leader said. During the Kairana bypoll, RLD candidate Tabassum Hasan succeeded in defeating the BJP in the high-profile battle necessitated following the death of BJP MP Hukum Singh. RLD candidate Tabassum was supported by the Congress, SP and BSP. Kairana was seen as a testing ground for the new-found opposition unity against the rising BJP then, and the win gave a boost to opposition's efforts to stitch a grand alliance against the saffron party. Statistically, RLD's performance showed a downward trend after the death of former prime minister Chowdhury Charan Singh. When Charan Singh died in 1987, Bharatiya Lok Dal had the maximum 83 legislators in Uttar Pradesh. The number dwindled over the years and came down to just one in 2017 assembly polls. The best performance of RLD under Ajit Singh was in 2002 when it won 14 assembly seats in alliance with the BJP. The party won five seats in 2009 Lok Sabha polls, again in alliance with the BJP, but during 2012 assembly polls, it forged an alliance with Congress and won nine assembly seats. In 2014 general election and 2017 assembly polls, the party's performance was worst as it failed to turn voters in its favour and the BJP succeeded in making a dent in its vote bank. Of the seven seats contested in 2014, the party lost all of them. Even party chief Ajit Singh slipped to the third spot in his traditional Baghpat seat while his son Jayant Chowdhury lost to Bollywood actor-politician Hema Malini, who contested on a BJP ticket from Mathura. Other candidates including Amar Singh, Jaya Prada and Rakesh Tikait also could not perform well and all of them lost. In 2017 UP assembly polls, the RLD had contested 277 of the total 403 seats but won only one, Chhaprauli seat. After entering an alliance with SP-BSP, the RLD will be contesting Baghpat, Muzaffarnagar and Mathura seats. While party chief Ajit Singh is likely to contest from Muzaffarnagar, his son Jayant will be contesting from party's traditional seat Baghpat. Asked about RLD's Lok Sabha prospects, a senior RLD leader said, "This time equations are in our favour. Be it Muslim, backwards, Dalits, Jats or any other community, all are in our favour. Farmers are angry due to non-payment of cane dues." SP MLC Rajpal Kashyap, when asked about the alliance partner, said, "This is an alliance of ideologies and it will succeed in defeating the communal BJP. We are all committed to ensuring the victory of the alliance candidates.

After alliance with SP-BSP, RLD looks to revive itself in west Uttar Pradesh

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