The Chhattisgarh

Tag: BJP

  • Arvind Kejriwal Arrest LIVE Updates | Court Sends Delhi CM To 4-Day ED Remand |

    Arvind Kejriwal Arrest LIVE Updates: Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader, Arvind Kejriwal, was today produced before the Rouse Avenue Court, following the conclusion of his custodial remand by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). This development comes in the wake of Kejriwal’s arrest in connection with an alleged excise policy-linked money laundering case. While the ED sought seven days remand of the Delhi CM, the court sent Kejriwal to four-day ED custody.

    On the other hand, the Delhi High Court also heard a public interest litigation (PIL) today, which sought Kejriwal’s removal from the post of Chief Minister of the Government of NCT of Delhi. The hearing was presided over by Justice Manmohan and Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora. The court rejected the PIL saying that there is no leagl bar in the case and Kejriwal can continue to function as the Delhi CM. In another case, the Delhi High Court has also issued a notice to the Enforcement Directorate in response to a petition filed by Kejriwal challenging his arrest and the ED remand granted by the trial court.

    Sunita Kejriwal, the wife of the embattled Chief Minister, asserted that her husband’s health is not well and he is being harrased by the ED. 

    CM Kejriwal’s arrest and court proceedings LIVE here:

    4.43 pm: ED while seeking remand stated that Data in one mobile phone (belonging to the arrestee’s wife) has been extracted and is being analyzed. However, data from the other 4 digital devices seized during search at Arvind Kejriwal’s premises on 21.03.2024 (belonging to the arrestee himself) are yet to be extracted as the arrestee has sought time to provide password/login credentials after consulting with his lawyers.

    3.50 pm: The Rouse Avenue Court sent the Delhi CM to four-day ED remand. Kejriwal’s ED remand will now end on April 1. 

    3.30 pm: Arvind Kejriwal said in court that the ED has only two missions – two crush him and finish Aam Aadmi Party. Kejriwal said that his name is mentioned only four times in the documents of the ED and CBI. Kejriwal told the court that he was arrested on behalf of some statements that are not enough to arrest even a thief.

    02:43: The ASG SV Raju, representing the Enforcement Directorate (ED), stated that Arvind Kejriwal’s statements have been documented, and he provided evasive responses. ASG remarked that Kejriwal is intentionally refusing to cooperate with their investigation. He informed the Rouse Avenue court that during custody, Arvind Kejriwal did not divulge the passwords, resulting in the lack of access to digital data. The ED further said that, “A CM is not above the law.” According to Zee News TV report, The court has reserved the order regarding Enforcement Directorate’s plea seeking 7 days extension of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal’s custody remand.

    02:38: It is claimed that there was a scam worth Rs 100 crore… Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal asserted before the Rouse Avenue Court during his ED remand hearing that Justice Sanjiv Khanna stated the money trail has not been identified yet… Kejriwal submits that the motive of the ED is to dismantle the Aam Aadmi Party.

    02:31:  CM Kejriwal says in his defence,”The case was initiated by the CBI two years back…The ED submitted a report spanning 25 thousand pages…Numerous ministers have visited my residence over time… I question why the arrest is solely based on verbal statements.” He is speaking in the Rouse Avenue Court. 

    02:24: “He is not proven guilty in any court,” Arvind Kejriwal says in Rouse Avenue Court.

    02:19: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal says, upon arrival at the Rouse Avenue court, “It is a political conspiracy and the people will give an answer to it.” 

    02:14: ED has requested an extension of seven additional days for the custody of the Delhi CM by remand, says he needs to be confronted with some people linked with excise policy case.

    02:05: Arvind Kejriwal has reached Rouse Avenue Court, and the court hearing has begun. His wife Sunita Kejriwal is also present in the proceeding.

    01:45: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal being brought out of ED office; to be taken to Rouse Avenue Court. 

    VIDEO | “This is a political conspiracy, the public will give a befitting reply,” says Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) in response to a media query on Delhi L-G VK Saxena’s ‘government cannot run from jail’ remark.

    Kejriwal has been brought to Rouse Avenue Court in… pic.twitter.com/q7n2zYuHKb


    — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 28, 2024

    01:30: Delhi High Court rejects PIL seeking removal of Arvind Kejriwal from the post of Chief Minister of Delhi.

    01:00 PM: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will be produced before Rouse Avenue Court at 2 pm today on the expiry of his six days of ED custody.

     

  • Lok Sabha Elections: Kangana Ranaut’s Congress Connection You Didn’t Know About |

    New Delhi: Actress Kangana Ranaut has been nominated to contest from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The BJP’s decision has fumed many and has stirred up discussion in the political arena. After a markworthy career in Bollywood, the actress is all set for her political debut. 

    Kangana’s Political Background

    It’s interesting that Kangana Ranaut also comes from a political background, as her great grandfather, the late Sarju Singh, was an MLA from the Trifalghat assembly constituency. This sustantiates that she is not an outsider to politics but rather hails from a family that has actively participated in the democratic process of the country.

    Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu has referred to Kangana Ranaut as the “daughter of Himachal.” The actress has her deep roots emebedded in the state. CM Sukhu also mentioned that Ranaut’s father held the position of General Secretary of Congress in Mandi, and her parents continue to reside in the state.”She (Kangana Ranaut) is the daughter of Himachal. Her parents live here. Her father was made the General Secretary of Congress in Mandi,” CM Sukhu stated while addressing reporters in Shimla.

    Kangana Ranaut- Supriya Shrinate Controversy

    The nomination of the Bollywood actress has sparked controversy, especially after the deleted social media post by Congress leader Supriya Shrinate. The purported post from Congress’ social media chairperson Supriya Shrinate on Monday, which featured a picture of Ranaut with an objectionable caption, has since been deleted. Although, Shrinate has now-deleted that social media post. 

    Kangana Ranaut’s Political Debut

    As Kangana Ranaut gears up for her political debut, the actress met the BJP chief, Kangana Ranaut said in a post on X that she will do her best towards the progress of the Mandi constituency.
    “Today I met with the National President, Honorable Jagat Prakash Nadda ji. I will always be grateful for his guidance and support, and I will give my best for the progress and prosperity of my area, Mandi. Jai Hind,” Kangana Ranaut posted on X. She is expected to return on March 28 to commence her campaign for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

  • PM Modi Reaches Out To Lok Sabha Candidates In Bengal, Kerala; Know Why It’s Important For BJP |

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi today reached out to BJP candidates of two crucial states – Kerala and Bengal. While the BJP is looking to open its account in Kerala Lok Sabha polls, the party is trying hard to boost its seat count in TMC-ruled West Bengal. The BJP is fighting tooth and nail against the popularity of the TMC led by Mamata Banerjee while in God’s own country Kerala, the saffron party is yet to taste victory in the Lok Sabha polls. Thus, PM Modi’s attempt to speak to the women candidates from both the states is an attempt to boost the morale of the party cadre. 

    PM Modi’s Speaks To Kerala BJP Candidate

    Prime Minister Modi talked to Prof TN Sarasu who is the BJP candidate from the Alathur Lok Sabha seat in Kerala. During the conversation, she informed PM Modi that there is a problem with cooperative banks in Kerala which are governed by the CPI(M) leaders. “They loot the money that the poor people deposited in the bank. They are not getting back their money. So, there is a great complaint from the people here…Could you do something against this?” said Sarasu.

    PM Modi then told her, “I am happy that as a candidate, you are taking up the issues of the people. It’s a good thing for any public servant…Yes, I have heard about it. I have some details about it and you are right that a lot of poor people have been affected. Our government will take strict action against everyone involved and we will ensure that the poor get justice…I will take the legal advice and whatever property the ED will attach, if the common man’s money is involved, I will see that every penny should return to the person concerned. We will do that strictly.”

    #LISTEN | The conversation between PM Narendra Modi and Prof TN Sarasu, BJP candidate from Alathur in Kerala.

    She tells the PM, “…”There is a problem in Kerala with cooperative banks which are governed by the CPI(M) leaders. They loot the money that the poor people deposited… pic.twitter.com/AlpeQOkyNs
    — ANI (@ANI) March 26, 2024

    PM Modi’s Conversation With Bengal Candidate

    Prime Minister Modi also spoke to Rekha Patra, BJP Lok Sabha candidate from Bengal’s Basirhat and one of the Sandeshkhali victims. The senior BJP leader spoke to Patra about her Lok Sabha campaign preparations. While talking to her, PM Modi called her ‘Shakti Swaroopa’. Shakti is a Hinduism term associated with goddesses like Durga and Kali. Patra narrated the ordeal faced by women of Sandeshkhali. 

    #LISTEN | The conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Rekha Patra, a BJP candidate from Basirhat and one of the Sandeshkhali victims.

    She says, “…The situation in Sandeshkhali has been a matter of concern since 2011. If we were allowed to vote freely then this… pic.twitter.com/Y4KB7k1OKE
    — ANI (@ANI) March 26, 2024

    Boosting Cadre’s Morale

    The BJP has been galvanising its grassroots cadre in Kerala and West Bengal besides southern states like Tamil Nadu and Telangana. While the BJP has bettered its presence and vote share in Bengal, in Kerala, the saffron party is yet to open its account in the Lok Sabha. There are at least five seats in Kerala where the BJP has increased its vote shares and the party is now looking to translate it into the winning seats. PM Modi’s conversation with the candidates will send out a message that the person sitting on the highest echelons of the BJP is looking after the party candidates. This will boost the cadre’s morale ahead of the voting for the Lok Sabha polls. 

  • TMC Files Complaint Against BJP MP Dilip Ghosh’s ‘Derogatory And Offensive’ Remark Against CM Mamata Banerjee |

    New Delhi: The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has lodged a complaint with the Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal against BJP MP Dilip Ghosh for violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). The complaint alleged that the former BJP state president made derogatory and offensive remarks about West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. 

    Reacting to Dilip Ghosh’s controversial remark on Mamata Banerjee, the Trinamool Congress termed the former BJP state chief a disgrace in the name of a political leader. In a statement posted on X, the official handle of Trinamool criticised the BJP leader, “From challenging the lineage of Maa Durga to now questioning the ancestry of Mamata Banerjee, he has wallowed in the filthiest depths of moral bankruptcy.”  

     

    .@DilipGhoshBJP is a disgrace in the name of political leadership!

    From challenging the lineage of Maa Durga to now questioning the ancestry of Smt. @MamataOfficial, he has wallowed in the filthiest depths of moral bankruptcy.

    One thing is crystal clear: Ghosh has ZERO RESPECT… pic.twitter.com/25uvaDPXsi
    — All India Trinamool Congress (@AITCofficial) March 26, 2024

     

    Addressing media during his campaign trail, the BJP MP said, “Didi goes to Goa and says, ‘I am Goa’s daughter’, then goes to Tripura and says, ‘I am Tripura’s daughter’. Decide who your father is? It is not good to be just anybody’s daughter,” he said on the camera. 

    The TMC said that Ghosh has zero respect for women of Bengal. “One thing is crystal clear: Ghosh has ZERO RESPECT for the women of Bengal, whether it be the revered goddess of Hinduism or the only woman Chief Minister of India,” said the ruling party.

    This criticism echoes a previous controversy surrounding Dilip Ghosh’s remarks on Goddess Durga in 2021, where he questioned Maa Durga’s lineage. “Lord Ram was an emperor. Some consider him an avatar. We know the names of his ancestors. Do we know the same about Durga?” Ghosh said.

    Meanwhile, BJP released the list of 19 candidates for Bengal. BJP has fielded Rekha Patra from Basirhat, who is a resident of Sandeshkhali. It was she who first raised the voice of the women of Sandeshkhali.

  • `Instead Of Criticising…`: Hema Malini Takes A Dig At Opposition Ahead Of 2024 LS Polls

    Hema Malini sang a song while celebrating Holi at Vrindavan and also hit out at the opposition party for criticising BJP’s good work.

  • General (Retd) VK Singh Opts Out Of 2024 Polls; BJP Likely To Field Ex-IAF Chief RKS Bhadauria From Ghaziabad |

    New Delhi: Retired General VK Singh on Sunday announced his decision to contest the 2024 Lok Sabha Polls. Ghaziabad MP took on X (formerly Twitter) to announce his decision to opt out of the general elections and said that he has taken the difficult but thoughtful decision to put his “energy and time into new direction.”

    Two time MP from Ghaziabad further said that he spent the last 10 years making Ghaziabad a world-class city and is grateful for the love he received from its people. Saying that the decision to step away from LS Polls was not an easy one, General (Retd) stated that he wants to serve the country in a different way.

    “I have dedicated my entire life to the service of this nation as a soldier. For the last 10 years, I have worked tirelessly to fulfill the dream of making Ghaziabad a world-class city. In this journey, I am grateful for the trust and love that I have received from the people of the country and Ghaziabad as well as from the members of the BJP. This emotional bond is priceless to me, ” wrote Singh on X.

    मैंने सैनिक के रूप में इस राष्ट्र की सेवा में अपना सारा जीवन समर्पित किया है। पिछले 10 वर्षों से, मैंने गाजियाबाद को एक विश्व स्तरीय शहर बनाने के सपने को पूरा करने के लिए अथक परिश्रम किया है। इस यात्रा में, देश और गाजियाबाद के नागरिकों के साथ-साथ भाजपा के सदस्यों का जो विश्वास और…


    — Gen VK Singh(MODI KA PARIWAR) (@Gen_VKSingh) March 24, 2024

    “With these feelings, I have made a difficult, but thoughtful decision. I will not contest the 2024 elections. This decision was not easy for me, but I have taken it from the bottom of my heart. I want to take my energy and time in new directions, where I can serve my country in a different way. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart for being your companions on this journey. Your love, support and faith have always inspired me. Going forward, I will continue my service towards the country and all the citizens, just in a new form,” he added.

    Meanwhile, media reports suggest that former Indian Air Force Chief RKS Bhadauria is likely to contest the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections from the Ghaziabad seat. Earlier today, Bhaduria joined the BJP  in the presence of the party General Secretary Vinod Tawde and Union Minister Anurag Thakur. He is a Rajput face and belongs to Uttar Pradesh. Bhadauria was born in Korath village of Bah Tehsil in Agra. He joined the service as a Wing Commander in 1999 and retired as Air Force Chief in 2021. 

  • ‘Govt On Ventilator…’, ‘Won’t Last…’: Himachal MLAs Slam Congress As They Join BJP |

    New Delhi: In a major setback to the Congress party just ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha Polls, 6 rebel and former MLAs from Himachal Pradesh joined BJP on Saturday. Other three independent MLAs who submitted their resignation earlier last week also joined the saffron party.

    After joining the Bharatiya Janata Party, the independent MLAs expressed their disappointment in the leadership of the Himachal government and suggested that it may not last long.

    Speaking to ANI, one of the three independent MLAs of Himachal Pradesh, KL Thakur said that the Congress government which was formed with high hopes in the state has failed to deliver its promises. 

    “The Congress govt which was formed with high hopes in the state hasn’t delivered on any of its promises… Earlier the BJP govt under the leadership of Jairam Thakur has done many works. But now, things are different. It seems this govt won’t last long, many of the MLAs (of Congress) are in contact with the BJP,” said Thakur.

    #WATCH | Delhi | After joining the BJP, one of the three independent MLAs of Himachal Pradesh, KL Thakur says, “The Congress govt which was formed with high hopes in the state hasn’t delivered on any of its promises… Earlier the BJP govt under the leadership of Jairam Thakur… pic.twitter.com/mfmIhQzizV
    — ANI (@ANI) March 23, 2024

    Another MLA Ashish Sharma said that the decision to join BJP was taken in the interest of the state as no development happened under Congress’ rule in Himachal.  “We have taken this decision in the interest of the state and the constituency. The way this nation is moving forward under the leadership of PM Modi, it will be our fortune if we contribute something to it. No developmental work has been done under this govt and is on a ventilator. It’s a minority govt that won’t last long,” said Sharma.

    #WATCH | Delhi | After joining the BJP, one of the three independent MLAs of Himachal Pradesh, Ashish Sharma says, “We have taken this decision in the interest of the state and the constituency. The way this nation is moving forward under the leadership of PM Modi, it will be our… pic.twitter.com/bYUlJuapHY


    — ANI (@ANI) March 23, 2024

    Hoshyar Singh slammed the Himachal government and said that the law and order is in a bad situation in the state and no developmental work has been done for the past 15 months. Attacking the Congress he said that the party has a revenge mindset and has filed FIR against MLAs who did not vote in its favour in Rajya Sabha Polls.

    “Be it economic condition or law and order or any other, things aren’t going well in Himachal Pradesh. We are independent MLAs and we had every right to vote for the candidate whom we wanted in the Rajya Sabha election and we did but since then Congress party has been working with the mindset of revenge and they filed FIR  against the MLAs and their families, this isn’t good for the democracy,” said Singh. 

    “Developmental work has been completely at a halt in the last 15 months and hence we have decided this on our own (to resign and join the BJP). The govt is on the ventilator, anything can happen at any time,” he added.

    #WATCH | Delhi | After joining the BJP, one of the three independent MLAs of Himachal Pradesh, Hoshyar Singh says, “Be it economic condition or law & order or any other, things aren’t going good in Himachal Pradesh. We are independent MLAs and we had every right to vote for the… pic.twitter.com/h67ERsq4k8


    — ANI (@ANI) March 23, 2024

    The Three independent MLAs — Ashish Sharma (Hamirpur constituency), Hoshiyar Singh (Dehra) and K L Thakur (Nalagarh) — submitted their resignation to the Assembly secretary on Friday.

    Meanwhile, Former Congress MLAs– Rajinder Rana, Sudhir Sharma, Inder Dutt Lakhanpal, Devinder Kumar Bhutoo, Ravi Thakur and Chetanya Sharma– who were disqualified by the Himachal Pradesh assembly speaker also joined the BJP.

  • Will Arvind Kejriwal’s Arrest In Delhi Liquor Case Impact AAP’s 2024 Lok Sabha Election Campaign? |

    NEW DELHI: Amid the high-voltage drama, Arvind Kejriwal, the Chief Minister of Delhi and the national convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), has been arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with allegations of corruption and money laundering linked to Delhi’s excise policy. The arrest marks a significant moment in Indian political history, as Kejriwal has become the first sitting chief minister to face arrest in a criminal case.

    Allegations Of Corruption And Money Laundering 

    The case against Kejriwal and others revolves around accusations of corruption and money laundering concerning the formulation and execution of Delhi’s excise policy for the fiscal year 2021-22, which was subsequently scrapped. Kejriwal’s repeated avoidance of summons by the ED only served to intensify scrutiny on the matter, ultimately leading to his arrest.

    Arrest Amidst Election Season

    Importantly, Kejriwal’s arrest comes at a politically sensitive juncture, just before the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections. With the political landscape already charged with anticipation and speculation, this development adds a layer of complexity to AAP’s electoral strategy.

    What Next For AAP?

    AAP, a party known for its anti-corruption stance and grassroots appeal, now faces a critical leadership vacuum with its prominent figures embroiled in legal troubles. Kejriwal’s absence as the party’s star campaigner poses a significant challenge, forcing AAP to reconsider its electoral tactics and leadership structure. Kejriwal’s arrest compounds an already complex situation for AAP, as prominent figures like Manish Sisodia, Sanjay Singh, and Satyendra Jain are embroiled in the same investigation. As AAP strives to expand its political footprint nationally and engages in strategic alliances, Kejriwal’s absence poses a formidable obstacle to the party’s electoral ambitions.

    The arrest disrupts AAP’s carefully crafted campaign strategies, particularly in Delhi and Gujarat, where Kejriwal serves as the focal point of electoral messaging. The party’s reliance on Kejriwal’s mass appeal and popularity underscores the magnitude of the challenge it now faces in recalibrating its campaign strategy.

    Who Can Lead AAP In Kejriiwal’s Absence?

    In the wake of Kejriwal’s arrest, AAP confronts the challenge of identifying a capable leader to navigate the party through this turbulent period. Names like Atishi, Saurabh Bharadwaj, Raghav Chadha and Bhagwant Mann emerge as potential contenders, each bringing unique strengths and considerations to the table. The selection of a successor assumes paramount importance as AAP strives to maintain its political relevance and momentum.

    Governance Amidst Legal Battle

    Beyond its electoral implications, Kejriwal’s arrest raises fundamental questions about governance in Delhi. As the AAP government contends with legal and constitutional challenges, the efficacy of governance amidst ongoing legal battles remains a subject of intense scrutiny. The party’s ability to uphold its governance agenda and deliver on electoral promises becomes increasingly precarious in this volatile environment.

    AAP’s response to Kejriwal’s arrest is characterized by a delicate balance of strategic manoeuvres and public engagement. The party’s efforts to leverage the arrest as a rallying point for public sympathy underscore its determination to mitigate the electoral fallout. However, navigating the complexities of public perception and political dynamics presents a formidable challenge as AAP seeks to reaffirm its commitment to its core principles of ”zero tolerance” and electoral objectives.

    As the nation grapples with the implications of Kejriwal’s arrest, the future of AAP hangs in the balance. The unfolding legal battle, coupled with the impending Lok Sabha Elections, has set the already stage for a high-stakes political showdown, where every move and decision carries significant consequences. As political parties strategize and discuss their next moves in this charged atmosphere, the fate of AAP and its electoral prospects remain uncertain, awaiting further developments in this unfolding saga.

  • Lok Sabha Polls 2024: How BJP Is Expanding Its Footprints In Tamil Nadu |

    CHENNAI: In a significant development ahead of the crucial 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has secured a crucial seat-sharing agreement with the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) in Tamil Nadu. As part of the deal, the PMK, representing the Vanniyar minority, has been allocated ten parliamentary constituencies for contesting the upcoming polls in the southern state. PMK president Anbumani Ramadoss expressed optimism about this alliance, stating, “The people of Tamil Nadu are yearning for a change after six decades of rule by other parties. To fulfil this aspiration, PMK has chosen to align with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the BJP.”

     

    #WATCH | PMK President Anbumani Ramadoss says, “For the last ten years PMK has been part of the NDA in Delhi. Today, PMK has decided to join the NDA in Tamil Nadu and an agreement was signed. We are happy that we have joined the NDA in Tamil Nadu for a change. The last 57-58… pic.twitter.com/tAhx1mE4iQ
    — ANI (@ANI) March 19, 2024

     

    Impact Of BJP-PMK Alliance 

    Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai echoed Ramadoss’s sentiments, emphasizing the strength of the alliance. He highlighted the transformative impact of the PMK’s decision to align with the NDA, leading to an immediate shift in the political landscape. Both leaders are set to participate in a public meeting alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi, underscoring the significance of this collaboration. 

    The PMK, which mostly represents the Vanniyar minority in Tamil Nadu, was the second main alliance partner of the BJP in the Lok Sabha election 2019, which contested on seven alliance seats. With a vote percentage of 5.42 per cent, it was unable to secure even one seat in the polls. PMK contested 23 seats in the AIADMK alliance in the 2021 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly election and won five seats by securing 4.04 per cent.

    During the 2019 general elections, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam-led Secular Progressive Alliance, which comprised INC, VCK, MDMK, CPI, CPI(M), IUML, MMK, KMDK, TVK, AIFB, registered a landslide victory by winning 38 of the 39 seats. In 2019, the DMK won 23 Lok Sabha seats with 33.2 per cent vote share, Congress bagged 8 seats with 12.9 per cent vote and CPI won 2 seats in Tamil Nadu. CPI(M) got a seat, IML won 1 seat and independents were elected on 2 seats.

    The PMK had a slight increase in vote share to 5.42 per cent over seven seats in 2014, up from 4.4 per cent for eight seats. Anbumani Ramadoss is currently a Rajya Sabha member having been elected unopposed in 2019.

    BJP’s Seat-Sharing Arrangements

    Following the agreement, discussions are underway to finalize the specifics of the seat-sharing arrangement. PMK leaders are expected to attend Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming public meeting in Salem, where the official announcement of PMK candidates will take place. This alliance marks a strategic move by the BJP to bolster its presence in Tamil Nadu, a state historically dominated by Dravidian parties.

    Expanding Footprints In DMK-Ruled Tamil Nadu

    The recent seat-sharing deal with the PMK underscores the BJP’s concerted efforts to expand its influence in Tamil Nadu, despite being under the rule of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). Prime Minister Modi’s extensive outreach in the state, coupled with alliances with regional parties and prominent figures like actor R Sarath Kumar, signals the BJP’s determined push into Tamil Nadu’s political arena. This was followed by Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) chief T.T.V. Dhinakaran’s announcement of his party’s unconditional support to the BJP-led alliance for the Lok Sabha polls. 

    Inclusive Approach and Political Strategy

    The BJP’s inclusive approach, demonstrated through the selection of leaders from diverse backgrounds to helm the party in Tamil Nadu, aims to dispel misconceptions and broaden its appeal beyond traditional voter bases. By showcasing a commitment to inclusivity and embracing regional sentiments, the BJP seeks to carve a niche in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape.

    Challenges And Optimism

    While the BJP faces challenges in Tamil Nadu, particularly in garnering support amidst existing political dynamics, the party remains optimistic about its prospects. With the Lok Sabha elections approaching, the BJP’s concerted efforts to engage with voters and forge alliances underscore its determination to establish a formidable presence in the state and reshape Tamil Nadu’s political narrative in the upcoming elections.

    Lok Sabha Elections In Tamil Nadu

    The first phase of voting for all 39 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu is scheduled for April 19. The Election Commission has announced a seven-phase polling schedule across the nation, with voting taking place from April 19 to June 1 and counting of votes slated for June 4.

  • J&K Assembly Polls Soon After Lok Sabha Elections: CEC Rajiv Kumar |

    NEW DELHI: Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Dr Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, on Saturday said that assembly elections in J&K will be held soon. CEC Rajiv Kumar, while addressing a press conference, stated that assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir will be held soon after the Lok Sabha polls.

    Speaking to reporters, CEC Rajiv Kumar addressed the issue of holding simultaneous central and state elections in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). Kumar cited security concerns as a primary obstacle, leading the poll panel to deem it unfeasible at this time. However, he emphasized the panel’s dedication to conducting elections in the region, assuring that they would proceed following the Lok Sabha polls.

    Kumar highlighted the consensus among all parties in J&K regarding the desire for Assembly elections to coincide with parliamentary polls. Despite this shared sentiment, logistical challenges presented a significant hurdle. The sheer number of candidates expected in each Assembly segment, averaging between 10 to 12, would necessitate substantial security arrangements. Kumar explained that accommodating over 1,000 candidates would be impractical given the existing constraints.

    Nevertheless, Kumar reaffirmed the commitment of the poll panel to facilitate elections in J&K. He assured that once the current electoral processes conclude, the panel would prioritize holding polls in the region. This statement underscores the panel’s acknowledgement of the importance of democratic participation in J&K, despite the complexities involved in ensuring a secure and efficient electoral process.

    Importantly, the Lok Sabha elections in J&K will be held in five phases – April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13 and May 2. 

    The CEC also announced the dates for polls for the Lok Sabha elections 2024, which will be held in 7 phases starting from April 19. Phase 1 voting will be held on April 19, Phase 2 voting will be held on April 26, Phase 3 voting will be held on May 7, Phase 4 voting will be held on May 13, Phase 5 voting will be on May 20, Phase 6 voting will take place on May 25 and Phase 7 voting will be held on June 1. Counting of votes will be held on 4 June.

    Lok Sabha Election 2024 Full Schedule

    Phase 1 voting will be held on April 19, Phase 2 voting will be held on April 26, Phase 3 voting will be held on May 7, Phase 4 voting will be held on May 13,
    Phase 5 voting will be on May 20, Phase 6 voting will take place on May 25 and Phase 7 voting will be held on June 1. The results will be announced on June 4.

    With the formal announcement of the 2024 Lok Sabha election schedule, the Model Code of Conduct has also come into effect across the country. It may be noted that the tenure of the present Lok Sabha ends on June 16 and a new House must be constituted before that. In 2019, the general elections were held over seven phases from April 11 to May 19, with results declared four days later. The BJP-led National Democratic (NDA) won a total of 303 seats, leaving the grand-old party behind at 52 seats, in the 2019 general elections. 

    Total 96.8 Crore Voters Eligible To Cast Votes: CEC 

    A total of 96.8 crore voters will be eligible to cast their vote in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar said on Saturday. Addressing a press conference here to announce the dates of Lok Sabha elections and assembly polls to four states, Rajiv Kumar said there will be 10.5 lakh polling stations and 1.5 crore polling officials and security staff will be deployed to conduct the elections in the world’s largest democracy.

    “We are committed to giving the nation a truly festive, democratic environment. The term of the 17th Lok Sabha is due to expire on 16th June 2024. The terms of the Legislative Assemblies of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim are also due to expire in June 2024. Elections are due in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
    Kumar said approximately 49.7 crore voters are male and 47.1 crore voters are female.

    “We have 1.8 crore first-time voters and 19.47 crore voters between the age group of 20-29 years,” he said, adding that 88.4 lakh voters are of PwD category, 2.18 lakhs are centenarians and 48,000 are transgenders.