In these Bihar villages, massacre wounds unhealed but water is new battlefront

Laxmanpur-Bathe village, where the soil still whispers the anguish of the 1997 massacre in which 58 Dalits were killed, lies trapped between horrors of its past and broken promises of its future. In the neighbouring village of Senari, where the scars of another massacre still linger, the tale of neglect finds a bitter resonance. On March 18, 1999, 34 upper-caste villagers - all Bhumihars - were slaughtered here, supposedly by Maoists to avenge the Laxmanpur-Bathe massacre.

Son, daughter of two Bihar Ministers pitted against each other in Samastipur

Voters of the constituency in Mithila region are demanding jobs and development; the seat was once represented by iconic backward classes leader Karpoori Thakur; JD(U)s Shambhavi is being called as the youngest Lok Sabha candidate in the country

At 92.1%, Dhubri sees highest turnout this polls so far, Nawada posts lowest at 43.2%

With 26.6 lakh registered voters in Dhubri, the turnout means that 2.1 lakh people did not vote. This is in sharp contrast to Nawada (Bihar) where 11.4 lakh of the over 20 lakh registered voters did not turn up, translating into a turnout of 43.2%, the lowest in the first three rounds. During the third phase, Amreli in Gujarat, with 50.3% polling, saw the lowest turnout, according to data available on the Election Commission's voter app.

CPI(ML) eyes return to Parliament from Bihar after three-decade gap

In the Karakat, Nalanda, and Arrah Lok Sabha seats, the CPI (ML) is banking on a shift and divide in the Kushwaha vote bank in favour of the Opposition alliance, and accumulative anti-incumbency against the NDA allies

10 Held in Delhi Police's Pan-India Crackdown on Lawrence Bishnoi-Goldy Brar Gang

The police said they have recovered seven pistols, 31 live cartridges and 11 mobile phones from those arrested from Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar

'Sworn enemies' turn friends in times of elections in Bihar

Ex-MP Ranjan Prasad Yadav joins arch-rival Lalu Prasad's RJD after two decades, contesting against Lalu in Patliputra LS seat. Bihar's Lok Sabha elections witness unique alliances among parties to secure victory.

Lok Sabha Election: Repoll Ordered At Two Bihar Booths Where EVMs Were Vandalised

According to Bihar CEO, Polling will take place on May 10 at booth numbers 182 and 183, falling under Beldaur assembly segment

10 held in Delhi Polices pan-India crackdown on Lawrence Bishnoi-Goldy Brar gang

New Delhi, May 8: In a pan-India operation by its Special Cell, the Delhi Police have arrested nine criminals and apprehended a juvenile who were wanted in cases like shootouts, extortions, killings and arms supply to Lawrence Bishnoi-Goldy Brar gang, the officials said. The police said they had recovered seven pistols, 31 live cartridges and 11 mobile phones from those arrested from Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. With their arrest, the police claimed to have averted [] The post 10 held in Delhi Polices pan-India crackdown on Lawrence Bishnoi-Goldy Brar gang appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Developing a pulses value chain in Bihar

Creating a pulses market and raising its consumption is crucial for Bihar, which is lagging in nutritional indices

Will UP's rural voters spring a surprise in this election?

Uttar Pradesh. Of the 23 crore population in India's largest state, nearly 70% or more are estimated to be living in rural areas. By simple logic, the socio-political sentiment in UP's villages then should have a defining impact on the election results here. Building on that argument, since farming is increasingly considered unviable and unprofitable, since rural incomes, rural consumption and expenditure are going down, and since migration to cities is unabated, the results should have gone against the ruling party. Yet, the state was more than kind to the Bharatiya Janata Party in 2019 (64 seats for the NDA), despite the fact that rural distress that year was as bad as it is now. Is it all because of free ration, housing and direct benefit transfer? Or did the math go awry because it is simplistic to draw a direct connection between rural distress and election results? The question becomes important as the causes of rural distress such as low income, unviable farming, lack of employment, migration and uncomfortable living conditions have remained unchanged especially for marginalised and small farmers even in 2024. They, and other unskilled or semi-skilled people have been thronging the cities to work as daily wage labourers, domestic helps, or doing odd jobs. But even then, most of them manage to retain their land holding (howsoever small) and do some farming by periodically going to their villages. Migration, one can say, has been a mitigating factor to their distress. But in recent years, those having mid-sized farms and own houses in UPs villages are encountering new challenges such as shortage of farm labourers, the menace of stray cattle and animals, corruption, high-handedness of village level government functionaries, and uneven implementation of welfare schemes. At election time, some of these issues have acquired an urgency that might have impacted the polling in last three phases, and may do so in the rest. Labour shortage The shortage of farm labourers is a problem faced by many farmers, regardless of the size of cultivable land. Many activities that involve the use of manual labour, for which traditionally men and women from the economically weaker sections in villages were hired as required. But over the last few years, the availability of work and money through the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) has led many people to shun manual farm labour. Also, the direct benefit transfer (DBT) of money for nutrition for expectant mothers, daughters, education, health, pension etc has led to an assured amount reaching them every month. As a result, farming is increasingly becoming difficult -- and less remunerative -- for land owners, unless they have their own manpower to handle the work. This is the story all over UP. As Rameshwar Khare in Mohammadi, near Lakhimpur Kheri says, We have sold off a part of our farm land as there is big shortage of farm labour and we intend to convert the land into something commercial. What are UP's Muslim voters up to in this Lok Sabha election? The land is fertile and he would like to retain the mango orchard as it does not require much tending. In village Baba Baldev Singh Ka Purwa in Barabanki, Dharam Pal says farming on their family land had become difficult as there were no labourers to be found in the season. So, they are planning to put it to some other use as the Purvanchal Expressway passing within a few kilometres might open new opportunities. For those not having commercially viable alternatives, it indeed is a tough call. Stray cattle menace Stray cattle and wild animals continue to be a big problem in most districts. The state government has been very strict about cow protection as a result of which there is an abundance of emaciated stray cattle roaming around. The destruction of standing crops by such animals is aggravated by the state government's order that no barbed wires should be used to fence fields. According to an agency report quoting the 2019 Livestock Census , there are over 1.90 crore cattle in Uttar Pradesh, including 62,04,304 milch cows and 23,36,151 dry cows. There are cow shelters but all are packed to capacity. The stray cattle menace has also added to farmers' economic woes as they do not know what to do with cows that have stopped giving milk. In May 2017, the Centre banned the sale of cattle for slaughter in animal markets across the country. This has led to a serious problem across the state and farmers blame the present government for it. If these grievances run truly deep, the voting behaviour is likely to be impacted. High-handedness Despite digitisation of government work, offices at the tehsil (sub-district) level continue to be hotbeds of corruption, inefficiency and high-handedness. Be it agriculture, Panchayati Raj, electricity, irrigation, land revenue, the junior officers and clerks work as per their convenience and seek favours even for small work. After every election, people expect change but that never comes. If the harassment is blatantly caste- or community-driven, then the sufferers decide to extract their revenge. It was evident in the vote for change in the 2017 Assembly election. Caste factor Caste and regional loyalties continue to play strong roles in socio-political decision-making in villages and will do so in the 2024 election that is a waveless one at the moment and seeing a return to regular politics. Caste tensions, favours done by local politicians and the apprehension of repercussions in case of an unfavourable verdict play upon the minds of the village people. An interesting anecdote in this regard comes from Ballia where local residents say a senior Samajwadi Party leader is helping the campaign of the Bharatiya Janata Party candidate Neeraj Shekhar, out of deference for the latter's late father, the veteran Chandra Shekhar. Lack of employment Even though MNREGS has been a source of some relief, no substantive employment opportunities have come up in villages. Although self-help groups of women have flourished in many districts and success stories of small businesses being run by women in Ambedkar Nagar, Baghpat, Fatehpur, Lucknow, Gorakhpur have been well known. But, the repeated cancellation of examinations for recruitment to government vacancies following a paper leak, and delay in initiating the process of many other government recruitments has caused widespread resentment among the youth. In an interesting incident, many youths of Ballia had applied for and got government jobs in adjoining Bihar and are giving credit to the RJD-Congress combine that was in government with Nitish Kumar in Bihar then. They and their family members are now canvassing for the Samajwadi Party in UP. The importance of being Akhilesh Yadav in this Lok Sabha election The reduction of opportunity in defence forces because of Agniveer scheme has also angered the youth, says Om Prakash, a farmer in Ballia's Chhitikiya village. The other side If things are indeed so stark, then the sentiment should be against the ruling party all over the state. But it is not so. Undoubtedly, free foodgrains, free toilets, PM rural housing, women SHGs, meals in schools, money for books, copies, stationery, uniforms and socks, pension and insurance money coming into bank accounts have had their impact. Another big factor is that organised crime is now much less of a hazard in the state. The threat of extortion, kidnapping and bonded labour at the hands of criminal gangs has reduced drastically. In its place, crimes of passion and revenge have increased, but that generally does not have a bearing on how the law and order situation is perceived. According to police officials, there used to be crime syndicates in all districts, sometimes more than one in a big district. There has been an organized campaign to neutralise such gangs, and the impact is for all to see, says Vijay Kumar, former Director-General of Police (DGP) who served in this post from May 31, 2023 to January 31, 2024. He adds that there has been a big rise in convictions as well with prosecution being taken seriously. Under 'Operation Conviction' meant to speed up the sentencing process for serious crimes, 3,020 criminals were punished, with 3,000 receiving life imprisonment and 20 receiving the death penalty. Village life may not present the idyllic picture traditionally associated with it, but there are mobile phones in the hands of almost every village-dweller. The youth are engrossed in their screens or making videos to add to their social media feeds. More girls can be seen going to schools, and the desire to earn money by whatever means is perceptible everywhere. The road network in most villages has vastly improved, except for those in remote areas. The electricity supply is not round-the-clock yet, but has improved in last ten years -- the summer shortage notwithstanding. The handpumps continue to be the major source of water supply even as the Jal Jeewan Mission under the National Rural Drinking Water Project (NRDWP) is slowly making an impact. All things considered, community and faith compulsions, freebies, and the acceptability of a strong ruler may actually make voters from UP's villages forget the sources of their distress while pressing the button. The city that is no longer Allahabad

Bihar Board Releases Revised Class 10th Matric Results 2024: Check direct link here

The Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB) has released the revised Class 10th Matric results for 2024. Students who appeared for the exams can now check their final grades online at https://biharboardonline.bihar.gov.in/ or http://results.biharboardonline.com/ using their roll code and roll number. The reason for revisions is unclear, but students who believe their marks were affected are advised to check the updated results. The BSEB will announce details regarding physical marksheets and certificates at a later date.

Phase 5 of Lok Sabha Elections 2024: 695 Candidates File Nominations for 49 Seats

Phase 5 of Lok Sabha Elections 2024: 695 Candidates File Nominations for 49 Seats A total of 695 candidates are in the fray across 49 constituencies spread over eight states and Union territories in the upcoming fifth phase of the Lok Sabha polls, the Election Commission (EC) said on Wednesday. The figure emerged after the scrutiny of 1,586 nomination forms filed for the fifth phase of the ongoing polls. Of the nominations, 749 were found to be valid after the deadline for filing papers closed on May 3, according to a statement issued by the EC. The statement said 695 candidates will contest the polls from eight states and Union territories in the fifth phase on May 20. Maharashtra topped the list with 512 nominations, resulting in 301 valid candidates contesting across 13 constituencies, while Uttar Pradesh followed closely with 466 nominations, leading to 147 valid candidates across 14 constituencies. The highest number of nominations in a single constituency was seen in Maharashtra's Chatra, which received 69 candidatures, followed by Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh with 67 nominations. Each constituency in the fifth phase is expected to witness an average of 14 contesting candidates, reflecting a diverse range of political options for the voters. The state-wise breakdown of the nominations and valid candidates after the scrutiny showcases the dynamic electoral landscape across the country. Bihar, Jammu and Kashmir, Jharkhand, Ladakh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal together form the crux of the fifth phase, encompassing a significant portion of the country's electorate, the statement said. Three phases of polling have so far been held in the seven-phase election.

Driver of excise dept vehicle dies in attack

Rakesh Kumar died in an attack by liquor smugglers in Munger. The excise team raided Vikrampur village, leading to his tragic demise in a well. Investigation ongoing by Dharhara police under Vikesh Kumar's supervision.

Lok Sabha Phase 3 Voter Turnout: Assam Records Highest; UP Lowest

In the third phase of the Lok Sabha election, Assam registered the highest turnout at 81.61%, followed by West Bengal (75.79%), Goa (75.20%), Chhattisgarh (71.06%), Karnataka (70.41%), Maharashtra (66.05%), Madhya Pradesh (66.05%), Gujarat (58.98%), Bihar (58.18%), with the lowest in Uttar Pradesh at 57.34%. The Election Commission reported smooth polling... The post Lok Sabha Phase 3 Voter Turnout: Assam Records Highest; UP Lowest appeared first on HW News English .

Bihar Board Class 10th Matric Revised Results 2024: Download Now

The Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB), under the leadership of Chairman Shri Anand Kishore, is set to release the results of the Bihar Board Matric (Class 10) Annual Examination 2024 on March 31, 2024, at 01:30 PM. Along with the results, the percentage of total passed candidates and the list of toppers will also be announced.

Bahubali Wives Charge Up Bihar Contest

The RJD has fielded six women candidates, some of them are wives of bahubalis.

'Patna most vulnerable to floods in India'

Patna, Murshidabad, Thane, and other districts top the list of worst flood-affected regions in India. The research by IIT-Delhi and IIT-Roorkee highlights historical flood severity and affected populations.

Seven children rescued from trafficking in Telangana

HANAMKONDA: As many as seven children who were being trafficked from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand were rescued by the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Hanamkonda Child Welfare Department officials at Kazipet Railway Station on Monday midnight. According to sources, the RPF and welfare department, on a tip-off, conducted searches in Dhanapur Express and reduced the children. The children were later handed over to Kazipet Government Railway Police (GRP) for further investigation. Of the seven children, three were found to be taken to Hyderabad for forced labour while the other four were found to be traveling independently to Hyderabad, intending to seek employment in private companies. Recognising the vulnerability of these minors, the RPF and GRP Kazipet swiftly facilitated their transfer to Oasis Home, Hanamkonda, in collaboration with Child Line 1098, ensuring their immediate access to care, protection, and necessary support services. RPF personnel reunite 3-year-old with parents The Railway Protection Force personnel on Monday rescued a 3-year-old girl who went missing at the Secunderabad railway station and reunited her with her parents.The personnel found the minor wandering aimlessly near gate No. 4 on platform No. 1. Immediately, they made a public announcement to alert the passengers about a missing girl and were able to trace the girls father. Upon inquiry, the RPF learnt that the family had come to Secunderabad railway station to board the Satavahana Express. While his wife was busy with their other children at the booking office, the 3-year-old went missing. The RPF personnel in coordination with the Child helpline authorities ensured that the minor was safely reunited with the parents. In 2024, the RPF Secunderabad division rescued 51 children and handed them over to the Child helpline authorities under Operation Nanhe Farishte.

Rainfall Update: There will be heavy rain with strong winds in these states, know the weather condition in other states

Weather Update: According to the Meteorological Department, there is a possibility of rain with strong winds and thunder in some parts of Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Telangana and Maharashtra on May 8. There is also a possibility of hailstorm in Jharkhand. Apart from this, heat wave may continue in some parts of Rajasthan, [] The post Rainfall Update: There will be heavy rain with strong winds in these states, know the weather condition in other states first appeared on informalnewz .

Less hawa, more haq

Bihar has been a bellwether state. Voters arent getting swayed by one strong sentiment. Contest appears more evenly matched than assumed earlier. Its NDAs Modi plus welfare versus Tejashwis new socialism Always a bellwether state,...

PM takes a jibe at Lalus Muslim quota remark

PATNA/BHOPAL : Former Bihar chief minister and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad on Tuesday stoked a controversy after he favoured full reservation for Muslims, drawing flak from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and NDA leaders. Lalu later backtracked on his statement after Modi and other leaders launched a broadside against him even as he countered the PM, asking if he was aware of the recommendations of the Mandal Commission. Referring to Lalus comment, Modi said in MP that the Congress was silent, but one of its allies confirmed the INDIA blocs intentions of giving reservation to Muslims. He also referred RJD president as a leader who ate fodder meant for animals. Speaking to the media in Patna, Lalu alleged that the ruling BJP wanted to do away with reservations by scrapping the Constitution. Reservation toh milna chahiye Musalmano ko, poora... They (BJP) want to finish off the Constitution and democracy of the country, the RJD supremo said. As his remarks triggered a political storm, Lalu put out a video message clarifying that the basis of reservation should not be religion but social backwardness. The basis of reservation is social backwardness and not religion, PM lacks even this much understanding. I have got the Mandal Commission implemented. Whether Modi has ever read recommendations of the Mandal Commission? More than 3,500 backward castes get reservation under Mandal Commission and hundreds of castes from other reservation also have the reservation facility, he said. Obliquely referring to Lalus words, Modi said, The Opposition cant see beyond appeasement. A fodder scam accused leader who is out on bail is advocating reservations for Muslims. He (Lalu) says reservations must be given to Muslims, and that means whatever reservation SCs/STs and OBCs have, they want to give it Muslims. Apparently taken aback by PMs strong comments, the RJD chief said, Is he (Modi) is a bigger and real OBC than me? He has also no more understanding of the problems of the poor, backwards and Dalits. Lalu said, Sanghis (RSS leaders) and BJP leaders have old wish and conspiracy to abolish Baba Saheb`s Constitution and reservation given by Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur. In 2000, the then BJP-led NDA government at the Centre had even formed Constitution Review Commission. Had they faith in Constitution, they would not have used divisive language, spreading hatred (in the society). Raising the issue of Congress government in Karnataka including the Muslims among the OBC category, Modi said the Congress is eyeing the reservation of SC, ST and OBC. Theyve already done it in Karnataka by bringing all Muslims in the OBC category, which will steal the 27% reservation of existing OBC for its vote bank. The Congress now wants to replicate the same model nationally, isnt it like backstabbing Baba Saheb Ambedkar and disrespecting the countrys Constitution. The PM came down heavily on the Congress, saying that it did not want Baba Saheb Bhim Rao Ambedkar to get credit for making the Constitution. That is why now Congress has started saying that Baba Sahebs contribution in making the Constitution was less, Nehru ji played the biggest role in making the Constitution. Do you agree with this? Modi asked. What Lalu Prasad said Speaking to the media in Patna, Lalu alleged that the ruling BJP wanted to do away with reservations by scrapping the Constitution. Muslims need full reservation... The BJP wants to finish off the Constitution and democracy of the country, the RJD supremo said. After his remarks triggered a political storm, Lalu put out a video message clarifying that the basis of reservation should not be religion but social backwardness.

Lalu Prasad Yadav backs Muslim reservation, PM Narendra Modi says it exposes opposition's intent

PM Modi criticizes opposition's plan to allocate full reservations to Muslims, highlighting the threat to existing SC, ST, and OBC reservation system. He vows to protect these communities' rights against the alleged conspiracy.

In Mungers battle of prestige, RJD eyes JD(U)s traditional vote bank

CM, Rabri, 9 others take oath as MLCs

RPCAU approves projects worth 9cr

Lalus remarks on full quota for Muslims trigger slugfest

Filing of papers for Patna Sahib, Patliputra begins

3rd phase polling peaceful, 2 officials die of cardiac arrest

Jobs, education overshadow BiPaSa this election in state

R K Singh files papers

Psharif terror module: HC rejects pre-arrest bail pleas of 6 accused

Phase 3 Polls See 62.45% Turnout

New Delhi : A nearly 62 per cent voter turnout was recorded on Tuesday in the third phase of Lok Sabha elections in 93 constituencies spread over 11 states and Union Territories. Assam recorded the highest turnout at 76.13 per cent followed by Goa (74.50) and West Bengal (73.93). While Maharashtra (56.40), Uttar Pradesh (57.34), Bihar (57.27), and Gujarat (57.04) had lower voter turnout, Chhattisgarh (68.15), Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (65.23), Karnataka (69.30) and Madhya Pradesh (65.11) witnessed moderate polling. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah were among those who exercised their franchise in Gujarat, where elections were held in 25 seats. While Modi cast his vote at a polling booth in Gandhinagar Lok Sabha constituency, Shah voted at a polling booth in Ahmedabad with his family. Shah (Gandhinagar) is among the bigwigs in the fray in this phase along with Union ministers Jyotiraditya Scindia (Guna), Mansukh Mandaviya (Porbandar), Parshottam Rupala (Rajkot), Pralhad Joshi (Dharwad) and SP Singh Baghel (Agra). After casting his vote, Modi mingled with the crowd waiting outside for him and also held a brief conversation with a visually impaired girl. Later, while talking to media Modi said, Today is the third phase of voting. There is great importance of Daan in our country and in the same spirit, the countrymen should vote as much as possible. Four rounds of voting are still ahead. As a voter in Gujarat, this is the only place where I vote regularly and Amit Bhai is contesting from here as a BJP candidate... However, despite the presence of such bigwigs, the voters in Gujarat did not show much enthusiasm to vote. In Uttar Pradesh, where several members of Samajwadi Party patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadavs family are contesting, party chief Akhilesh Yadav alleged that the BJP workers were trying to loot booths in Mainpuri and people from Opposition parties were being detained in police stations. Yadav cast his vote in Saifai (Etawah) in Mainpuri constituency where his wife and sitting MP Dimple Yadav is contesting. He also alleged rigging of votes at some places and said, information is coming from some places that the government is using force. It is heard that officers have been deployed outside polling booths. In Maharashtra, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, his wife Sunetra Pawar, who is the NCP candidate from the Baramati Lok Sabha seat, and NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar were among those who cast their votes. Sharad Pawar was welcomed with a traditional aarti as he arrived at a polling booth in the Malegaon area of Baramati constituency in Pune district. Sunetra is pitted against her sister-in-law Supriya Sule, Sharad Pawars daughter and the sitting MP from there. In Karnataka, Pralhad Joshi, Bhagwanth Khuba, Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge were among those who came in early to cast their votes. Former chief minister B.S. Yediyurappa along with sons his B.Y. Raghavendra, BJP candidate from Shimoga Lok Sabha segment and B.Y. Vijayendra, partys state chief -- and daughters-in-law cast their vote at Shikaripura in Shivamogga district. In Assam, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma accompanied by his wife Riniki Bhuyan Sarma and daughter Sukanya Sarma exercised his franchise at Amingaon in Barpeta Lok Sabha seat.

Lalu backs Muslim quota, PM Modi says it exposes opposition's intent

PM Narendra Modi on Tuesday seized upon RJD boss and former Bihar CM Lalu Prasads statement supporting full reservations for Muslims, and said his charge that Congress and its partners had a hidden agenda to introduce faith-based quota was vindicated. Claiming vindication, he said he could read the intent of Congress and its partners because of their dependence on the politics of votebanks and appeasement.

High Voter Turnout in Third Phase; Clashes and Allegations Mar West Bengal and UP Voting

High Voter Turnout in Third Phase; Clashes and Allegations Mar West Bengal and UP Voting Nearly 65 per cent voter turnout was recorded on Tuesday in the third phase of Lok Sabha elections in 93 constituencies spread over 11 states and Union Territories with stray incidents of violence in West Bengal. Assam recorded the highest turnout at 81.71 per cent followed by West Bengal at 76.52 per cent and Goa at 75.20 per cent, while Uttar Pradesh witnessed the lowest at 57.34 per cent, with Bihar at 58.18 per cent, Gujarat at 59.51 per cent and Maharashtra at 61.44 per cent doing slightly better, according to the figures from the Election Commission at 12.15 am. The overall voting percentage was 64.58 per cent. According to the EC, the figures are an ''approximate trend'' and are likely to rise as data is being collected. While the official time for the voting to conclude is 6 pm, it can go beyond to enable voters who have come in the queue before the end of fixed polling hours to exercise their franchise. Among other states and UTs, Chhattisgarh recorded 71.06 per cent polling, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu 69.87 per cent, Karnataka 70.41 per cent, and Madhya Pradesh 66.05 per cent, according to the EC. As many as 17.24 crore people, including 8.39 crore females, were eligible to vote in the third phase and 1.85 lakh polling stations manned by 18.5 lakh officials had been set up. With this, voting has been completed in 20 states/UTs and 282 Lok Sabha seats out of 543. The overall voting percentage in the first and second phases was 66.14 per cent and 66.71 per cent respectively. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah were among those who exercised their franchise in Gujarat, where elections were held in 25 seats. While PM Modi cast his vote at a polling booth in Gandhinagar Lok Sabha constituency, Shah voted at a polling booth in Ahmedabad. Shah (Gandhinagar) is among the bigwigs in the fray along with Union ministers Jyotiraditya Scindia (Guna), Mansukh Mandaviya (Porbandar), Parshottam Rupala (Rajkot), Pralhad Joshi (Dharwad) and SP Singh Baghel (Agra). The stakes are high for the BJP in this round as it had won an overwhelming majority of these seats, including all in Gujarat, Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh, in the last election. Both the BJP and the INDIA bloc claimed that they had the upper hand after the third phase. ''Across all the states and UTs, voters from all walks of life have placed their faith in the NDA and our development agenda. INDI Alliance is losing even more steam, thanks to their regressive economics and outdated votebank politics,'' Modi said on X. The Congress claimed that the BJP has been wiped out in the south and reduced to half of its strength after the three phases ''Its very clear that for the BJP, it is South mein Saaf, North mein Half,'' Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said on X. In Uttar Pradesh, where several members of Samajwadi Party patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadav's family are contesting, party chief Akhilesh Yadav alleged that the BJP workers were trying to ''loot booths'' in Mainpuri and people from opposition parties were being detained in police stations. Yadav cast his vote in Saifai (Etawah) in Mainpuri constituency where his wife and sitting MP Dimple Yadav is contesting. Sporadic incidents of violence marred the polling in the four constituencies in West Bengal as TMC, BJP and Congress-CPI(M) workers clashed with each other in various parts of Murshidabad and Jangipur seats. According to state election officials, Murshidabad registered the highest voter turnout of 80.13 per cent followed by Maldaha Dakshin (76.15 pc), Maldaha Uttar (75.92 pc), and Jangipur (73.71 pc). The TMC, BJP, and the Congress-CPI(M) alliance lodged separate complaints related to poll violence, voter intimidation, and assaults on poll agents. The EC received 182 complaints by 9 am, most of which were from Murshidabad and Jangipur constituencies. ''The TMC has unleashed a reign of terror in the entire constituency. Strict action must be taken by the Election Commission,'' Left-Congress combine candidate Mohammed Salim said in Murshidabad seat. In the Karimpur area of the seat, clashes were reported between the TMC and the CPI(M) supporters outside a few booths. Clashes were reported between the TMC and the Congress activists from the Domkol area. In some areas, TMC workers held protests alleging that central forces were assisting BJP workers in ''intimidating'' voters at booths in the Maldaha North constituency. In Uttar Pradesh, Agra witnessed 53.99 per cent polling, Aonla 57.08 per cent, Budaun 54.05 per cent, Bareilly 57.88 per cent, Etah 59.17 per cent, Fatehpur Sikri 57.09 per cent, Firozabad 58.22 per cent, Hathras 55.36 per cent, Mainpuri 58.59 per cent and Sambhal 62.81 per cent. ''In Mainpuri, BJP people are trying to loot booths. They are detaining opposition people in police stations,'' SP chief Yadav alleged without elaborating. ''There is information from some places that the government is using force. It is heard that officers have been deployed outside polling booths,'' he said. In Budaun, the villagers of Dhoranpur boycotted the polling to protest against the alleged non-fulfilment of their demand for a road. District Magistrate Manoj Kumar said the issue has come to his notice and a sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) has been sent to the village. Not a single vote was also cast in three villages of Firozabad -- Nagla Jawahar, Neem Kheria and Nagla Umar -- as the villagers tried to draw the administration's attention to their problems. SP candidate Aditya Yadav in Budaun alleged that his party supporters were not being allowed to vote in some places. ''I have made a complaint in this regard with the EC observer and have given proof of police atrocities. We are only getting assurances,'' he said. Queues were seen at polling booths in most Lok Sabha segments in northern districts of Karnataka. Union Ministers Pralhad Joshi and Bhagwanth Khuba, and Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge were among those who came in early to cast their votes. Former chief minister B S Yediyurappa along with sons B Y Raghavendra, BJP candidate from Shimoga Lok Sabha segment, and B Y Vijayendra, party's state president, along with other family members cast their vote at Shikaripura in Shivamogga district. Two government officials on poll duty died in Karnataka after suffering a heart attack, sources in the Election Commission said. A 45-year-old woman polling officer - Kaushika Babariya- deployed at a polling booth in Amreli district of Gujarat, also died of a heart attack. In Gujarat, the Banaskantha district collector ordered an inquiry after Congress Lok Sabha candidate Geniben Thakor alleged that electors were threatened and asked to vote for the BJP by some youngsters posing as Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel at a polling station. In Maharashtra, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, his wife Sunetra Pawar, who is the NCP candidate from the Baramati Lok Sabha seat, and NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar were among those who cast their votes. Sharad Pawar was welcomed with a traditional 'aarti' as he arrived at a polling booth in the Malegaon area of Baramati constituency in Pune district. Ajit Pawar and Sunetra Pawar cast their votes at a polling booth in Katewadi area of Baramati. Sunetra is pitted against her sister-in-law Supriya Sule, Sharad Pawar's daughter and the sitting MP from there. In Assam, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma accompanied by his wife Riniki Bhuyan Sarma and daughter Sukanya Sarma exercised his franchise at Amingaon in Barpeta Lok Sabha seat. Amid rains, people used different modes of transport, including boats, to reach the polling stations across Guwahati, Barpeta, Dhubri and Kokrajhar constituencies. With the BJP bagging Surat unopposed, 25 seats in Prime Minister Modi's home state of Gujarat went to polls on Tuesday, besides 11 seats in Maharashtra, 10 seats in Uttar Pradesh, the remaining 14 of the 28 in Karnataka, seven in Chhattisgarh, five in Bihar, four each in Assam and West Bengal, and all two in Goa. Voting was held in two seats in Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu and nine seats in Madhya Pradesh, including Betul where elections were earlier deferred. Over 1,331 candidates, including around 120 women, were in the fray in the third phase. The next four phases will be on May 13, May 20, May 25 and June 1. The counting of votes is on June 4.

Lok Sabha elections: 'Saheb, biwi aur gangster returns' in Siwan, Munger

Hina Shahab challenges JD(U) and RJD in Siwan; Munger's Anita Devi contests against Lalan Singh. The gangster's wives enter the Lok Sabha race, adding twists to the elections in Bihar.

Lok Sabha elections: 'Saheb, biwi aur gangster returns' in Siwan, Munger

Hina Shahab challenges JD(U) and RJD in Siwan; Munger's Anita Devi contests against Lalan Singh. The gangster's wives enter the Lok Sabha race, adding twists to the elections in Bihar.

2 Officers On Poll Duty Die Of Heart Attack In Bihar

Polling in five constituencies in Bihar in the third phase of Lok Sabha elections passed off peacefully, with a provisional voter turnout of 60 per cent, almost one per cent less than that of the 2019 general elections, officials said.

'Bipasa' goes missing from Bihar poll scene as job takes centre-stage

Bipasa missing in Bihar polls. Unemployment, health, education crucial. Bijli-Pani-Sadak issues resolved. Nitish Kumar-led NDA/Grand Alliance improved road, water, power access. Voters emphasize jobs, healthcare, education. 60% voters in 2021 polls.

Lalu favouring 'full quota' for Muslims triggers political storms

Lalu supports Muslim reservation, sparking controversy with PM Modi. BJP aims to polarize Hindu voters. JD(U) opposes, highlighting Mandal Commission's secular principles amidst Bihar caste survey contradictions.

Feedback from today's polling confirms NDA's excellent momentum, says Assam CM Sarma

Feedback from today's polling confirms NDA's excellent momentum, says Assam CM Sarma Assam Chief Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday said the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has gained an excellent momentum in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. The feedback from today's polling confirms the excellent momentum NDA has maintained through all the phases till now, said Assam Chief Minister. CM Sarma further stated, In the 4 seats that went to polls today in Assam, NDA will win 3. He said that there would be a contest on the 4th one and for obvious reasons. Earlier in the day, Sarma cast his vote at a polling station in Barpeta Parliamentary Constituency. After casting his vote, the Assam Chief Minister expressed confidence in the victory of his party and its allies in the elections and said BJP and its alliance partners will get a good result. He also added that people will vote for progress and East India and the northeast will play a historic role in this election. Meanwhile, polling was held for 93 Lok Sabha seats across 12 states and union territories in the third phase of the general election on Tuesday. The states and union territories where the elections are being held in this phase are Assam (4), Bihar (5), Chhattisgarh (7), Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (2), Goa (2), Gujarat (25), Karnataka (14), Maharashtra (11), Madhya Pradesh (8), Uttar Pradesh (10) and West Bengal (4). The BJP has bagged the Surat seat unopposed. In this phase, more than 1300 candidates, including around 120 women, were in the fray. Voting did not take place for Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag-Rajouri Lok Sabha seat on Tuesday as the Election Commission of India (ECI) has postponed the polling to the sixth phase to be held on May 25. Originally, voting was scheduled to be held on 94 Lok Sabha seats in the third phase. In the 2019 general election, the BJP won 72 of the 93 seats that go to the polls today. The Lok Sabha elections are being held across seven phases, from April 19 to June 1. The counting is scheduled for June 4. (ANI)

Reservation In India | Lalu Prasad Yadav Backs, Will Muslim Quota Card Backfire? | News18

Reservation In India | Lalu Prasad Yadav Backs, Will Muslim Quota Card Backfire? | News18Former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav on Tuesday came out in favour of reservation for Muslims and said it should be done now. The RJD chief, while talking to reporters in Patna, said that the BJP-led NDA government wants to finish the constitution.

What voters in West UP have to say about a waveless election | Lok Sabha elections

What matters more to voters in a waveless election - local leaders and issues or caste combinations? We took that question to voters in West UP where polling percentages have dropped this year compared to the turnout in 2014 and 2019. Also on the show, a curious contest in Bihar where Laloo Prasad Yadav fights RJD chief's daughter Rohini Acharya and how a vulnerable tribe from the Nicobar Islands has voted for the first time ever in this election.

Lok Sabha Polls Phase 3: 61.45% Voter Turnout Recorded Till 8 PM | TOP UPDATES

New Delhi: The third phase of the 18th Lok Sabha Elections 2024 is underway, with voters from 93 Lok Sabha constituencies across 12 states and Union Territories gearing up to cast their votes. TOP UPDATES States and Constituencies Going to Polls: In this phase, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, []

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar and 11 other MLC take oath

Patna,May 7 (UNI) Chief Minister Nitish Kumar along with eleven newly elected Members of the Bihar Legislative Council took oath as the members of the Upper house here on Tuesday. The Chairman of the Council Devesh Chandra Thakur administered the oath of office to the members in the presence of Bihar Assembly Speaker Nand Kishore... The post Bihar CM Nitish Kumar and 11 other MLC take oath first appeared on Central India's Premier English Daily .

Patna emerges as India's most flood-prone city, reveals recent study

Patna emerges as India's most flood-prone city, reveals recent study Patna experiences the worst floods in India, followed by West Bengal's Murshidabad and Maharashtra's Thane, according to a district-level flood severity index (DFSI) developed by researchers at IIT-Delhi and IIT-Roorkee. The index takes into account the historical severity of floods based on the number of affected people, the spread and duration of floods. The researchers said the top 10 districts where flood severity is the highest are: Patna, Murshidabad, Thane, North 24 Parganas (West Bengal), Guntur (Andhra Pradesh), Nagpur (Maharashtra), Gorakhpur (Uttar Pradesh), Ballia (Uttar Pradesh), East Champaran (Bihar), and East Medinipur (West Bengal). These are followed by Muzaffarnagar (Bihar), Lakhimpur (Assam), Kota (Rajasthan), Aurangabad (Maharashtra), Malda (West Bengal), Rajkot (Gujarat), Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh), Aurangabad (Bihar), Bahraich (Uttar Pradesh), Ahmedabad (Gujarat), Jalpaiguri (West Bengal), Darjeeling (West Bengal), Dibrugarh (Assam), Azamgarh (Uttar Pradesh), Chamoli (Uttarakhand), West Champaran (Bihar), Amravati (Maharashtra), Medinipur West (West Bengal), and Samastipur (Bihar). Though Chamoli in Uttarakhand does not face recurrent floods, it appears on this list because of a few isolated highly damaging flood events. Among the 30 districts facing the highest risk of floods, 17 are in the Ganga basin and three are in the Brahmaputra basin. Among all the Indian river basins, the Ganga basin has the highest population, and its high flood proneness is worrisome, said the researchers, including Manabendra Saharia, an assistant professor at IIT-Delhi. Assam experiences the highest number of floods in India, having faced more than 800 flood events over 56 years. The other flood-prone states, in descending order of flood events, include Kerala, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra. Data from 1967 to 2023 shows that Thiruvananthapuram has experienced more than 231 floods or more than four events per year on average. Five districts -- Thiruvananthapuram, Lakhimpur, Dhemaji, Kamrup, and Nagaon -- have been categorised as ''severely flood-prone,'' having recorded more than 178 floods, or more than three events per year on average. The researchers said localised intense rainfall events are likely to rise in the future due to climate change, and therefore, more flash floods are expected. Under the warming climate, the frequency of cyclones will increase, and coastal and nearby inland areas will face more instances of intense rainfall and floods. It is also likely that areas that are not currently flood-prone may begin to see flooding. The researchers said human fatality due to floods is nearly stable or has come down in recent times due to better management despite an increase in the population in India. The number of deaths is around 1,000 per year since 2015, the data showed.

Lok Sabha Election 2024: Bihar, Karnataka, Maharashtra BJP?

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: (Third Phase Voting) 2024 (Lok Sabha Election 2024) 12 94 . 5 60.2 . 5 74.9 (Maharashtra) 53.4 . (PM Narendra Modi) (Ahmedabad) . , (Shivraj Singh Chouhan), (Akhilesh Yadav), (Gujarat) .

Patna most vulnerable to floods in India, finds new research

The researchers said the top 10 districts where flood severity is the highest are: Patna, Murshidabad, Thane, North 24 Parganas (West Bengal), Guntur (Andhra Pradesh), Nagpur (Maharashtra), Gorakhpur (Uttar Pradesh), Ballia (Uttar Pradesh), East Champaran (Bihar), and East Medinipur (West Bengal).

Intense Heatwave Continues to Grip Multiple States Across India

New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that heatwave conditions will continue in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka on Tuesday, with temperatures soaring up to 42 degrees Celsius in Delhi. The national capital recorded its hottest day of the year on Sunday, with the mercury touching 41.1 degrees Celsius, two notches above normal.The IMD had previously cautioned that most parts of India are likely to experience above-normal maximum temperatures this month. According to the latest weather bulletin from the IMD, heatwave conditions will persist in Rajasthan, west Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat for the next three days. Kerala is expected to witness hot and humid weather for the next five consecutive days.On Monday, severe heatwave conditions were reported in parts of West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, while Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana experienced a heatwave.Heatwave conditions have persisted in Odisha, Gangetic West Bengal, and Andhra Pradesh's Rayalaseema region since April 15, 17, and 24, respectively. In the last 24 hours, Saraikela in Jharkhand recorded the highest maximum temperature at 45.1 degrees Celsius, followed by Kurnool (Andhra Pradesh) and Gulbarga (Karnataka) at 43.8 degrees Celsius.Meanwhile, Delhi is expected to experience a maximum temperature of 42 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, with no relief from the heat in sight for at least the next seven days, as per the IMD forecast.The sky is expected to remain partly cloudy, with the possibility of a thunderstorm accompanied by gusty winds. The previous hottest day recorded in Delhi was on April 27, when the maximum temperature settled at 40.5 degrees Celsius.The IMD also stated that 10 to 20 heatwave days are expected, compared to the normal four to eight days, in the entire April-June period.April witnessed record-breaking maximum temperatures in east, northeast, and south peninsular India, leading to health warnings from government agencies. Some states suspended in-person classes in schools. The areas and regions predicted to experience a higher number of heatwave days include Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Maharashtra, Vidarbha, Marathwada, Bihar, and Jharkhand. Some places may even record more than 20 heatwave days. Putin Embarks on Fifth Term Amidst Global Scrutiny: A Look into Russia's Political Landscape Kendrick Lamar and Drake's Feud Turns Explosive: What You Need to Know Fatal Accident on Nagpur-Mumbai Samriddhi Expressway Claims Two Lives

Congress Names Sher Singh Ghubaya as Candidate for Firozpur Lok Sabha Seat

Amritsar: The All India Congress Committee (AICC) announced on Tuesday that Sher Singh Ghubaya will be the Congress candidate for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections from the Firozpur constituency in Punjab.According to a press release issued by the AICC, The Central Election Committee has approved the candidature of Shri Sher Singh Ghubaya as Congress candidate to contest the ensuing general elections to the Lok Sabha from 10 - Firozpur Parliamentary constituency of Punjab. Punjab will have voting for all its 13 seats in a single phase, with the final phase scheduled for June 1. The constituencies where polling will take place include Firozpur, Ludhiana, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Khadoor Sahib, Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Nandpur Sahib, Fatehgarh Sahib, Faridkot, Bathinda, Sangrur, and Patiala.Meanwhile, polling is underway for 93 Lok Sabha seats across 12 states and union territories in the third phase of the general election on Tuesday. The states and union territories where elections are being held in this phase are Assam (4), Bihar (5), Chhattisgarh (7), Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (2), Goa (2), Gujarat (25), Karnataka (14), Maharashtra (11), Madhya Pradesh (8), Uttar Pradesh (10), and West Bengal (4). The BJP has won the Surat seat unopposed.In this phase, more than 1300 candidates, including around 120 women, are contesting. A total of 17.24 crore voters are eligible to cast their votes in this phase at 1.85 lakh polling stations. Prominent leaders contesting in today's elections include Union Home Minister Amit Shah, former Madhya Pradesh chief ministers Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Digvijaya Singh, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Samajwadi Party leader Dimple Yadav, and NCP (SP) leader Supriya Sule, among others. In the 2019 general election, the BJP won 72 of the 93 seats that are going to the polls today. The Lok Sabha elections are being held across seven phases, from April 19 to June 1. The counting is scheduled for June 4. Modi Creating Hatred for Political Gain, Says Sonia Gandhi in a Video Message Container Carrying 666 Crore Worth of Gold Jewels Capsizes in Tamil Nadu CBI and Lokayukta Complaint Filed in 800 Crore Scam Involving Mallikarjun Kharge's Son-in-law

Lok Sabha Elections: Voting Percent Reaches 60.19% in Phase 3 till 5 PM

New Delhi: The third phase of voting for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections began today, covering 93 constituencies across 11 states and Union Territories. Over 1,300 candidates, including 120 women, are contesting in this crucial phase. As of 5 pm, a 50.2% voter turnout was recorded across the 11 states and union territories. This phase of voting includes 26 seats in Gujarat, 14 in Karnataka, 11 in Maharashtra, 10 in Uttar Pradesh, 8 in Madhya Pradesh, 7 in Chhattisgarh, 5 in Bihar, 4 in Assam, 4 in West Bengal, 2 in Goa, and 2 in Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. Till 5 pm, the voter turnout was at 50.2%. Overall, in Phase 3 of the Lok Sabha polls, the turnout has been recorded at 60.19%. The Lok Sabha elections are being conducted across seven phases, from April 19 to June 1. The counting of votes is scheduled for June 4. Niranjani Akhara Mahamandaleshwar Attempts Suicide Over Fraud Allegations Congress Names Sher Singh Ghubaya as Candidate for Firozpur Lok Sabha Seat CBI and Lokayukta Complaint Filed in 800 Crore Scam Involving Mallikarjun Kharge's Son-in-law

Police recover 166 stolen, lost mobile phones of railway passengers

These apps in most cases match two completely unknown people and prompt as potential date, travel or hobby partners. Also, cab booking apps, book sharing apps etc. require permission to use GPRS on mobile phones. (Photo: DC/File) These apps in most cases match two completely unknown people and prompt as potential date, travel or hobby partners. Also, cab booking apps, book sharing apps etc. require permission to use GPRS on mobile phones. (Photo: DC/File) Hyderabad: The Government Railway Police (GRP) and Secunderabad Division Railway Protection Force (RPF) recovered 166 stolen or lost mobile phones using the Central Equipment Identify Register Portal (C.E.I.R.) portal of DOT. The recovered phones were handed over to bonafide owners. On 19th April 2023, the Central Equipment Identify Register Portal started in Telangana and the RPS Secunderabad has recovered a total 166 stolen or lost mobiles till now. As per instructions of Additional Director-General of Police, Railways, Mahesh Bhagwat, who earlier worked as State Nodal Officer of CEIR portal, a special team has been formed under supervision officer of DSRP Urban S.N Jawed and recovered 166 mobiles in which 14 mobiles recovered in this month in the limits of RPS Secunderabad The other phones recovered included reported cases and Mee Seva applications through CEIR portal along with handsets recovered from other States - Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The mobile phones are either stolen during the journey from passengers, who were sitting on the foot board or window side where they have misplaced phones or some unidentified offenders either snatched or stolen it. We request the Railway passengers to be careful about their belongings and if any mobile phone theft occurs in railway stations then block your mobile phones with IMEI numbers in CEIR portal immediately by log in at www.ceir.gov.in , an official said. Passengers, who lost mobiles should immediately contact the nearest police station in order to block IMEI using CEIR portal and further track the phone, unblock and hand it over to owners. Mahesh Bhagwat and Secunderabad Division SP, Shaik Salima, appreciated the special team for recovering 166 phones in the limits of RPS Secunderabad since launch of the portal.

LS elections third phase: Around 50 per cent polling recorded till 3 pm

New Delhi: A voter turnout of 50.71 per cent was recorded till 3 pm in the third phase of Lok Sabha elections in 93 constituencies spread over 11 states and Union Territories on Tuesday with sporadic incidents of violence in West Bengal. West Bengal recorded the highest turnout at 63.11 per cent followed by Assam at 63.08 per cent, while Maharashtra witnessed the lowest at 42.63 per cent. According to the Election Commission, a voting percentage of 50.71 was recorded till 3 PM. The voting which started at 7 am will continue till 6 pm. A voter turnout of 47.03 per cent was recorded in 25 Lok Sabha seats of Gujarat, an Election Commission (EC) official said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah were among those who exercised their franchise the state. While PM Modi cast his vote at a polling booth in Gandhinagar Lok Sabha constituency, Shah voted at a polling booth in Ahmedabad. Shah (Gandhinagar) is among the bigwigs in the fray in this phase along with Union ministers Jyotiraditya Scindia (Guna), Mansukh Mandaviya (Porbandar), Parshottam Rupala (Rajkot), Pralhad Joshi (Dharwad) and SP Singh Baghel (Agra). In Uttar Pradesh, where several members of Samajwadi Party patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadav's family are contesting, close to 46.78 per cent polling was recorded in 10 seats. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav alleged that the BJP workers were trying to loot booths in Mainpuri and people from opposition parties were being detained in police stations. Yadav cast his vote in Saifai (Etawah) in Mainpuri constituency where his wife and sitting MP Dimple Yadav is contesting. Among other states, Assam recorded 63.08 per cent polling, Bihar 46.69 per cent, Chhattisgarh 58.19 per cent, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu 52.43 per cent, Goa 61.39 per cent, Karnataka 54.20 per cent, and Madhya Pradesh 54.09 per cent, according to the EC. Sporadic incidents of violence marred the third phase of Lok Sabha polls in four constituencies in West Bengal as TMC, BJP and Congress-CPI(M) workers clashed with each other in various parts of Murshidabad and Jangipur seats. According to officials, Murshidabad registered the highest voter turnout with 65.40 per cent followed by Maldaha Dakshin (62.90), Jangipur (62.57), and Maldaha Uttar (61.50). The TMC, the BJP, and the Congress-CPI(M) alliance lodged separate complaints related to poll violence, voter intimidation, and assaults on poll agents. The EC received 182 complaints by 9 am, most of which were from Murshidabad and Jangipur constituencies. In Murshidabad seat, Left-Congress combine candidate Mohammed Salim claimed that he caught hold of a fake booth agent in the Rabinagar area of the constituency. Salim faced go back slogans as he tried to enter a booth there following allegations of CPI(M) booth agents being heckled by alleged TMC goons. The TMC has unleashed a reign of terror in the entire constituency. Strict action must be taken by the Election Commission, Salim said. In the Karimpur area of the seat, clashes were reported between the TMC and the CPI(M) supporters outside a few booths. Clashes were reported between the TMC and the Congress activists from the Domkol area. BJP candidate Dhanajoy Ghosh faced protests by TMC cadres in the Jangipur area as he tried to enter some of the booths in the constituency. In Uttar Pradesh, Agra witnessed 43.67 per cent polling, Aonla 46.75 per cent, Budaun 45.44 per cent, Bareilly 45.96 per cent, Etah 48.93 per cent, Fatehpur Sikri 46.18 per cent, Firozabad 47.80 per cent, Hathras 44.63 per cent, Mainpuri 46.80 per cent and Sambhal 52.24 per cent In Mainpuri, BJP people are trying to loot booths. They are detaining opposition people in police stations, SP chief Yadav alleged without elaborating. He also alleged rigging of votes at some places and said, Information is coming from some places that the government is using force. It is heard that officers have been deployed outside polling booths. In Budaun, the villagers of Dhoranpur boycotted the polling to protest against the alleged non-fulfilment of their demand for a road. District Magistrate Manoj Kumar said the issue has come to his notice and a sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) has been sent to the village. Not a single vote was also cast in three villages of Firozabad -- Nagla Jawahar, Neem Kheria and Nagla Umar -- as the villagers tried to draw the administration's attention to their problems. SP candidate Aditya Yadav in Budaun alleged that SP supporters were not being allowed to vote in some places. I have made a complaint in this regard with the EC observer and have given proof of police atrocities. We are only getting assurances, he said. SP candidate Zia-ur-Rehman Barq also alleged that a circle officer snatched voter slips from SP workers and detained them. He requested the EC to remove the officer immediately. Queues were seen at polling booths in most Lok Sabha segments in northern districts of Karnataka. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi and Bhagwanth Khuba, and Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge were among those who came in early to cast their votes in Karnataka. Former chief minister B S Yediyurappa along with sons B Y Raghavendra, BJP candidate from Shimoga Lok Sabha segment and B Y Vijayendra, party's state President -- and daughters-in-law cast their vote at Shikaripura in Shivamogga district. Two government officials on poll duty died in Karnataka after suffering a heart attack, sources in the Election Commission said. In Maharashtra, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, his wife Sunetra Pawar, who is the NCP candidate from the Baramati Lok Sabha seat, and NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar were among those who cast their votes. Sharad Pawar was welcomed with a traditional 'aarti' as he arrived at a polling booth in the Malegaon area of Baramati constituency in Pune district. Ajit Pawar and Sunetra Pawar cast their votes at a polling booth in Katewadi area of Baramati. Sunetra is pitted against her sister-in-law Supriya Sule, Sharad Pawar's daughter and the sitting MP from there. In Assam, people lined up in large numbers across four Lok Sabha constituencies to cast their vote. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma accompanied by his wife Riniki Bhuyan Sarma and daughter Sukanya Sarma exercised his franchise at Amingaon in Barpeta Lok Sabha seat. People used all modes of transport, including boats, to reach the polling stations across Guwahati, Barpeta, Dhubri and Kokrajhar constituencies to exercise their democratic franchise amid rain. Over 1,300 candidates, including around 120 women, are in the fray in the third phase. Voting was completed in 189 seats out of 543 seats in the first two phases. The next four phases will be on May 13, May 20, May 25 and June 1. The counting of votes is on June 4.

Phase 3 of Lok Sabha Polls Witnesses Nearly 40% Turnout: Updates and BJP's Electoral Talks

As the clock struck 1 pm, the third phase of Lok Sabha polls witnessed a turnout of approximately 39.92%. The polling, which commenced at 7 am across 93 constituencies spanning 11 states and Union Territories, saw notable figures like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah exercising their franchise early in the day. However, amidst the electoral process, incidents of violence marred the voting in four constituencies of West Bengal. Clashes erupted between workers of Trinamool, BJP, and Congress in various parts of Murshidabad and Jangipur seats. The ballot battle features prominent personalities such as Union Ministers Amit Shah (Gandhinagar), Jyotiraditya Scindia (Guna), Mansukh Mandaviya (Porbandar), Parshottam Rupala (Rajkot), Pralhad Joshi (Dharwad), and SP Singh Baghel (Agra). The polling map includes 11 seats in Maharashtra, 10 seats in Uttar Pradesh, 14 of the 28 seats in Karnataka, seven in Chhattisgarh, five in Bihar, four each in Assam and West Bengal, along with two seats in Goa. Additionally, the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu hold two seats, while nine seats in Madhya Pradesh are up for grabs, including Betul, where elections were postponed. BJP's Take on Lok Sabha Elections: Choosing Between Strength and Appeasement The BJP took a swipe at the Congress, suggesting that voters must decide between a leader who appeases Pakistan and one who strengthens India. Given the recent statements from figures like Farooq Abdulla, Lalu Prasad, and others, voters across the nation might ponder whether they want a leader who panders to Pakistan or one who prioritizes India's strength, remarked BJP National General Secretary, Vinod Tawde. Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Kharge Raises Concerns Over Poll Data Discrepancies Actor Shekhar Suman and Radhika Khera Switch Allegiances, Join BJP Amid Lok Sabha Elections 2024 PM Modi Receives Warm Welcome in Ahmedabad: Voting Day Excitement

INDI alliance wants to snatch rights of SC, ST and OBC, says PM Modi on Lalu Yadav's Muslim reservation remark

INDI alliance wants to snatch rights of SC, ST and OBC, says PM Modi on Lalu Yadav's Muslim reservation remark Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday sharply reacted to RJD Chief Lalu Prasad Yadav's 'Muslims should get reservation' remark, accusing the INDIA bloc of snatching reservation rights of ST, SC and OBC community. PM Modi, while addressing a public rally in Madhya Pradesh's Dhar, took a dig at Lalu Prasad Yadav saying a fodder scam accused leader who is out on bail is advocating reservation for Muslims. Congress is silent but today one of its allies confirmed the intentions of the INDI alliance. Their leader who is in jail in connection with the fodder scam and has been punished by the court...He has just come out on bail...He said that Muslims should get reservation and not just reservation, he says that Muslims should get complete reservations. What does this mean? These people want to snatch away all the reservation that SC, ST and OBC communities have and give complete reservation to Muslims, PM Modi said. Earlier today, former Bihar Chief Minister and RJD Chief Lalu Prasad Yadav came out in support of the Muslim quota, saying that they should get the reservation. Speaking to reporters, the former CM said, Muslims should get reservation (reservation toh milna chahiye Musalmano ko, pura'...). He also slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his slogan 'Abki Baar, 400 Paar' and said, The votes are on our side... They are saying that there will be a 'Jungle Raj' because they are scared, they are trying to instigate... They want to finish the Constitution and democracy. On RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav's remark on reservation, Rajya Sabha MP and BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi said, The apprehensions expressed by BJP and PM Modi are now proving to be completely true. The genie of Muslim reservation has come out of the lamp of the INDI alliance and is visible in the sky from the South to the plains of Ganga. The thing worth noticing in the statement given by Lalu Prasad Yadav is that the most serious word he was asked about the Muslim community, he said yes Muslims should get reservation 'poora ka poora'. It became clear that they want to give reservation to the Muslim community by snatching the share of SC, ST and OBC... Polling in Bihar, which sends 40 members to the Lok Sabha, is being held across all seven phases--April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1. The voting on five seats in Bihar is ongoing as part of the third phase of the Lok Sabha election today. The five seats are Jhanjharpur, Supaul, Araria, Madhepura, and Khagaria. The counting of votes for all phases is scheduled for June 4. (ANI)

36.69 pc polling till 1 PM in Bihar

Patna, May 7 (UNI) An estimated 36.69 per cent of total 98,60,397 electorate exercised their franchise till 1 PM on Tuesday during the third phase Lok Sabha election to five seats in Bihar. Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) sources said maximum 36.58 per cent polling was recorded in Supaul followed by 37.09 per cent in Araria,... The post 36.69 pc polling till 1 PM in Bihar first appeared on Central India's Premier English Daily .

Lalu bats for Muslim reservation, PM Modi accuses Oppn. not to see beyond appeasement

Leader of NDA alliance partner in Bihar Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) Chirag Paswan also condemned Lalu Prasads statement over Muslim reservation

Man Arrested From Bihar-Nepal Border For 'Raping And Impregnating' Teen Girl

The matter was reported on May 1 when the victims mother took her to a hospital for a check-up and found that the girl was pregnant, police said

ED arrests Jharkhand minister's personal secretary, house help after recovering Rs 36.23 cr cash

ED arrests Jharkhand minister's personal secretary, house help after recovering Rs 36.23 cr cash Jharkhand's rural development minister Alamgir Alam's personal secretary (PS) and the latter's house help were arrested by the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) on Tuesday, a day after Rs 36.23 crore were seized from them. Both Sanjiv Lal, PS to Jharkhand minister Alamgir Alam, and his domestic help, Jahangir Alam, were arrested by the ED after the raids and subsequent recovery of Rs 35.23 crore in cash from their premises in Jharkhand's Ranchi. Steel trunks filled with recovered cash were taken away from Alamgir Alam's residence in Ranchi on Monday night. Reportedly, the duo was questioned by the ED overnight and later taken into custody on Tuesday. Following their arrest under provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the duo was produced in a special PMLA court and has been sent to ED remand for six days, officials said. The ED carried out fresh searches at five locations in Jharkhand's Ranchi on Tuesday, in continuation of yesterday's raid, and seized around Rs 1.5 crore from a contractor identified as Rajiv Kumar Singh. Reportedly, over Rs 10 crore was routed through him, officials said. Earlier, the ED conducted raids at multiple locations in Ranchi on May 6 in connection with its ongoing probe into a case against Virendra K Ram, a chief engineer at the Jharkhand Rural Development Department. He was arrested by the ED in February 2023 in a money laundering case linked to alleged irregularities in the implementation of some schemes. The chief engineer was nabbed by the ED after it launched multiple searches on February 21, 2023, in Ranchi, Jamshedpur, and a few other places in Jharkhand, Bihar, and Delhi. Earlier on Monday morning, the ED raided the premises of both Sanjiv Lal and his domestic help Alamgir Alam in Ranchi and has so far recovered Rs 35.23 crore cash from them. In 2019, a huge amount of cash was recovered from one of his subordinates. Later, the ED took over the case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. (ANI)

PM Modi Receives Warm Welcome in Ahmedabad: Voting Day Excitement

Today, on May 7, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was greeted with enthusiasm as he arrived to cast his vote in Ahmedabad. A large crowd, including many young people and children, gathered at Nishan Higher Secondary School to cheer for him. Some even brought handmade drawings of the Prime Minister. This event marks the polling for 93 Lok Sabha seats across 12 states and union territories in the third phase of the general election. After casting his vote, Prime Minister Modi delighted the crowd by interacting with them, signing autographs, and even allowing an elderly woman to tie a rakhi on his wrist. Videos captured a heartwarming moment when he lifted a child into his arms, played with him, and received applause from the crowd. One young admirer shared her excitement about meeting Prime Minister Modi in person, expressing her joy at receiving his autograph. Another youngster, Devarsh Pandya, who gifted the Prime Minister a handmade sketch, described Modi's appreciation for his artwork. Before heading to vote, Modi encouraged people to participate actively in the third phase of Lok Sabha elections, urging them to vote in record numbers. The voting is currently taking place in Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. PM Modi's Transit Visit: Meeting Booth Workers, Public Meeting in Dhar-Khargone PM Modi Comments June 4 as Deadline for BJD Government in Odisha Amit Shah Slams Rahul Gandhi's Shifting Constituencies, Predicts Defeat in Rae Bareli

'Local vs outsider' in Khagaria contest

Should not Muslims get benefits of reservation? asks RJD chief Lalu Prasad

PATNA: RJD president Lalu Prasad on Tuesday said he was in favour of extending reservation benefits to Muslims. He alleged that the ruling BJP at the Centre wanted to do away with reservations by scrapping the Constitution. The BJP is against the provision of reservations made in the Constitution. Hence, it wants to do away with both, Prasad told reporters at the legislative council premises. The ailing septuagenarian, who nowadays prefers to stay indoors, was attending a swearing-in ceremony where his wife Rabri Devi took oath as an MLC. Others who took oath included Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Prasad's arch rival who heads the JD(U). Altogether 11 people were elected unopposed to the Upper House of legislature in Bihar in the biennial polls held earlier this year. On BJP's charge that if voted to power, the Congress, RJD and other allies would steal reservations meant for OBCs and divert these to Muslims, Prasad said, ut should not Muslims get the benefit of reservations? (Aarakshan to milna hi chahiye Musalmanon ko). He also said the BJP was indulging in scaremongering (bhadka rahe hain) by raising the bogey of jungle raj at election rallies. He also mocked the abki baar 400 paar claim of Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying woh khud hi paar ho gaye hain (he is on his way out). The poll outcome will be in our favour.

Muslim Reservations: Lalu Prasad Yadav's Controversial Demand

Muslim Reservations: Lalu Prasad Yadav's Controversial Demand RJD president Lalu Prasad on Tuesday said he was in favour of extending reservation benefits to Muslims. He alleged that the ruling BJP at the Centre wanted to do away with reservations by scrapping the Constitution. ''The BJP is against the provision of reservations made in the Constitution. Hence, it wants to do away with both'', Prasad told reporters at the legislative council premises. The ailing septuagenarian, who nowadays prefers to stay indoors, was attending a swearing-in ceremony where his wife Rabri Devi took oath as an MLC. Others who took oath included Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Prasad's arch rival who heads the JD(U). Altogether 11 people were elected unopposed to the Upper House of legislature in Bihar in the biennial polls held earlier this year. On BJP's charge that if voted to power, the Congress, RJD and other allies would ''steal'' reservations meant for OBCs and divert these to Muslims, Prasad said, ''but should not Muslims get the benefit of reservations? (Aarakshan to milna hi chahiye Musalmanon ko)''. He also said the BJP was indulging in scaremongering (bhadka rahe hain) by raising the bogey of ''jungle raj'' at election rallies. He also mocked the ''abki baar 400 paar'' claim of Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying ''woh khud hi paar ho gaye hain (he is on his way out). The poll outcome will be in our favour''.

People upset with government, BJP will face a very bad defeat: Akhilesh Yadav after casting his vote

People upset with government, BJP will face a very bad defeat: Akhilesh Yadav after casting his vote Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav, his wife and SP candidate from Mainpuri Lok Sabha Seat, Dimple Yadav cast their vote at a polling station in Uttar Pradesh's Saifai. After casting his vote, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav claimed that the ruling BJP party would face a very bad defeat as people of every section were upset with the government. Speaking with the reporters, Akhilesh Yadav said, ... BJP is going to have a very bad defeat because farmers, youth, businessmen, people of every section are upset with them. Yadav also alleged that the leaders of the BJP should be punished for deliberately conducting the elections in the summer season. He said, We are voting in summer and BJP people should also be punished for this, although they will say that this is the decision of the Election Commission, BJP people deliberately make you vote in the summer to hurt you. This voting could have taken place a month earlier. The SP chief also appealed to the people to vote and said, I appeal to all my colleagues and voters to vote in large numbers. This voting can change the lives of people. The SP chief also alleged that the BJP leaders and workers tried to capture the booth and said, We hope that the Election Commission will take action on the complaints that are coming. It is being heard at many places that BJP workers and leaders want to capture the booth. I saw an official here who was abusing people... I will appeal to the voters to vote in large numbers and remove this government... The polling is going on for 93 Lok Sabha seats across 12 states and union territories in the third phase of the general election on Tuesday. The states and union territories where the elections are being held in this phase are Assam (4), Bihar (5), Chhattisgarh (7), Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (2), Goa (2), Gujarat (25), Karnataka (14), Maharashtra (11), Madhya Pradesh (8), Uttar Pradesh (10) and West Bengal (4). The BJP has bagged the Surat seat unopposed. In Uttar Pradesh, voting is underway in 10 seats: Sambhal, Hathras, Mainpuri, Agra (SC), Fatehpur Sikri, Firozabad, Etah, Budaun, Aonla, and Bareilly. In this phase, more than 1300 candidates, including around 120 women, are in the fray. A total of 17.24 crore voters are eligible to cast their franchise in this phase at 1.85 lakh polling stations. Prominent leaders to contest in today's poll battle include Union Home Minister Amit Shah, former Madhya Pradesh chief ministers Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Digvijaya Singh, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Samajwadi Party leader Dimple Yadav, and NCP (SP) leader Supriya Sule, among others. In the 2019 general election, the BJP won 72 of the 93 seats that go to the polls today. The Lok Sabha elections are being held across seven phases, from April 19 to June 1. The counting is scheduled for June 4. (ANI)

Bihar: Presiding officer on election duty dies of heart attack in Supaul

Bihar: Presiding officer on election duty dies of heart attack in Supaul A presiding officer on election duty at a polling booth in Supaul passed away, allegedly due to a heart attack, on Tuesday. The deceased has been identified as Shailendra Kumar. He passed away in the morning...This happened where he was posted. He was rushed to PHC, where he was declared dead. The body has been brought here to Sadar Hospital for a postmortem. His relatives were informed and they too have reached here. A postmortem has been done. It was found that he was diabetic, the doctor told ANI. The Supaul Lok Sabha constituency, which had long been considered a stronghold of socialist leaders, is set for a keen contest this time as the RJD has put up a candidate here for the first time since the 1998 Lok Sabha elections against sitting MP and JDU leader Dileshwar Kamait. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance has reposed faith in the sitting MP to win a fresh term, while the RJD has fielded Chandrahas Chaupal, its MLA from the Singheshwar (SC) constituency. Supaul is among the five Lok Sabha constituencies of Bihar where voting is underway in Phase 3 of the general elections. The remaining four seats that are polling in the ongoing polls are Araria, Madhepura, Khagaria and Jhanjharpur. Polling started for 93 Lok Sabha seats across 12 states and union territories in the third phase of the general election today at 7:00 am. The states and union territories where the elections are being held in this phase are Assam (4), Bihar (5), Chhattisgarh (7), Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (2), Goa (2), Gujarat (25), Karnataka (14), Maharashtra (11), Madhya Pradesh (8), Uttar Pradesh (10) and West Bengal (4). The BJP has bagged the Surat seat unopposed. In this phase, more than 1300 candidates, including around 120 women, are in the fray. A total of 17.24 crore voters are eligible to cast their franchise in this phase at 1.85 lakh polling stations. Seventy-five delegates from 23 countries will see the poll process, the poll panel said. Voting will not take place for Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag-Rajouri Lok Sabha seat on Tuesday as the Election Commission of India (ECI) has postponed the polling to the sixth phase to be held on May 25. Originally, voting was scheduled to be held on 94 Lok Sabha seats in the third phase. However, elections were rescheduled from the second to the third phase in the Betul Lok Sabha seat of Madhya Pradesh due to the death of the BSP candidate. The BJP candidate in Surat has been declared the winner unopposed and due to the revised polling schedule in the Anantnag-Rajouri seat, the total seats now going to poll are 93. In the 2019 general election, the BJP won 72 of the 93 seats that go to the polls today. The Lok Sabha elections are being held across seven phases, from April 19 to June 1. The counting is scheduled for June 4. (ANI)

People are regretting their mistake...: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge casts vote in Karnataka's Kalaburagi

People are regretting their mistake...: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge casts vote in Karnataka's Kalaburagi Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge and his son Priyank Kharge cast their votes at a polling station in Gundugurthi village in Kalaburagi for the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections on Tuesday. All the businessmen and the poor people will together make Congress win this time. People are regretting that they made a mistake last time and they will elect Congress party with a huge majority, Kharge said after voting. Congress has filed Kharge's son-in-law Radhakrishna Doddamani against BJP's Dr Umesh Jadhav from Kalaburagi. After casting his vote, Priyank Kharge said, I am very confident that the Congress government is going to be extremely triumphant... The last 10 years of Modi's tenure have been disastrous for India and for Kalaburagi. The people are quite disappointed and this time they will vote for progress. Karnataka has recorded 9.45 per cent turnout during the first two hours since voting began for the third phase of Lok Sabha polls. West Bengal is leading the voter turnout in the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections at 14.60 per cent till 9:00 AM on Tuesday, as per the data released by the Election Commission of India. Madhya Pradesh is also witnessing a high voter turnout of 14.22 per cent. Maharashtra has recorded the lowest turnout till 9 am at 6.64 per cent. Voting percentages for other states participating in the third phase of the Lok Sabha polls at 9 am are-- Assam--10.12 per cent, Bihar--10.03 per cent, Chhattisgarh--13.24 per cent, Goa--12.35 per cent, Gujarat--9.87, and Uttar Pradesh--12.13 per cent. In this phase, more than 1300 candidates, including around 120 women, are in the fray. A total of 17.24 crore voters are eligible to cast their franchise in this phase at 1.85 lakh polling stations. Seventy-five delegates from 23 countries will see the poll process, the poll panel said. Prominent leaders to contest in today's poll battle include Union Home Minister Amit Shah, former Madhya Pradesh chief ministers Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Digvijaya Singh, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Samajwadi Party leader Dimple Yadav, and NCP (SP) leader Supriya Sule, among others. In the 2019 general election, the BJP won 72 of the 93 seats that go to the polls today. The Lok Sabha elections are being held across seven phases, from April 19 to June 1. The counting is scheduled for June 4. (ANI)

Bengal Leads Voter Turnout at 14.6% by 9 AM; Maharashtra Lags Behind at 6.64%

New Delhi: West Bengal takes the lead in voter turnout during the third phase of Lok Sabha elections, hitting 14.60% by 9:00 AM on Tuesday, according to data from the Election Commission of India. Madhya Pradesh also sees a significant turnout at 14.22%, while Maharashtra records the lowest at 6.64% by 9 AM. As of 9 AM, voting percentages for other states participating in the third phase are as follows: Assam at 10.12%, Bihar at 10.03%, Chhattisgarh at 13.24%, Goa at 12.35%, Gujarat at 9.87%, Karnataka at 9.45%, and Uttar Pradesh at 12.13%. Union Territory Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu register a 10.13% voter turnout by 9 AM. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the overall voter turnout surpassed 67%. Today, polling commenced for 93 Lok Sabha seats across 12 states and union territories in the third phase of the general election at 7:00 AM. This phase witnesses over 1300 candidates, including approximately 120 women, competing. A total of 17.24 crore voters are eligible to cast their votes in this phase at 1.85 lakh polling stations. Seventy-five delegates from 23 countries will observe the polling process, stated the poll panel. Key contenders in today's election include Union Home Minister Amit Shah, former Madhya Pradesh chief ministers Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Digvijaya Singh, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Samajwadi Party leader Dimple Yadav, and NCP (SP) leader Supriya Sule, among others. In the 2019 general election, the BJP secured victory in 72 of the 93 seats up for grabs today. Voting will not occur for Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag-Rajouri Lok Sabha seat on Tuesday, as the Election Commission of India (ECI) has postponed polling to the sixth phase on May 25. Originally, voting was scheduled for 94 Lok Sabha seats in the third phase. However, elections were rescheduled from the second to the third phase in the Betul Lok Sabha seat of Madhya Pradesh due to the death of the BSP candidate. The BJP candidate in Surat has been declared the winner unopposed, and due to the revised polling schedule in the Anantnag-Rajouri seat, the total seats now up for polling are 93. The Lok Sabha elections are taking place across seven phases, from April 19 to June 1, with counting scheduled for June 4. The Narendra Modi-led BJP seeks a third term in power, while the opposition INDIA bloc aims to halt their momentum. Arrival of Delegates from 23 Countries to Observe Lok Sabha Elections in India Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Big Names Face Critical Tests PM Modi Vows Justice for Victims of the West Bengal Teacher Recruitment Scam

Phase 3 Voting Begins in 2024 Lok Sabha Elections: Key Candidates and States

Today marks the commencement of the third phase of voting in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, with polls opening at 7 am across 93 constituencies spanning 11 states and Union Territories in India. Notable contenders in this phase include Amit Shah, the Union home minister, seeking re-election from Gandhinagar in Gujarat, along with Union ministers Jyotiraditya Scindia, Mansukh Mandaviya, and Pralhad Joshi contesting from various regions. Of significant interest is the electoral battle in Baramati, Maharashtra, a stronghold of the influential 'Pawar family', where Supriya Sule, daughter of NCP founder Sharad Pawar, faces competition from Sunetra Pawar, wife of Maharashtra's deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar. The late Mulayam Singh Yadav's family also features prominently in this phase, with three members entering the electoral fray. This includes Dimple Yadav, wife of Akhilesh Yadav, contesting for a seat, Akshay Yadav vying to regain the Firozabad Lok Sabha seat, and Aditya Yadav making his electoral debut from Budaun, previously held by his cousin Dharmendra Yadav. In total, 1351 candidates are contesting across these constituencies, with 17.24 crore eligible voters, including 8.39 crore females. The states and union territories participating in this phase are Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. The BJP has secured the Surat seat uncontested. Following today's voting, the next phases are scheduled as follows: Phase 4: May 13 Phase 5: May 20 Phase 6: May 25 Phase 7: June 1 Vote counting for all 543 seats is slated for June 4, marking the culmination of the electoral process. PM Modi's Transit Visit: Meeting Booth Workers, Public Meeting in Dhar-Khargone Bengal Leads Voter Turnout at 14.6% by 9 AM; Maharashtra Lags Behind at 6.64%

Phase 3 of Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Voter Turnout and Key Contestants Update

The third phase of Lok Sabha Elections 2024 is underway across 93 constituencies in 11 states and Union Territories. The Election Commission of India reports that 1,331 candidates are contesting in this phase. Prime Minister Narendra Modi kickstarted the day by casting his vote at a school in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. He encouraged citizens to participate actively, emphasizing that their involvement would enhance the vibrancy of the electoral process. After today's voting, the fate of over 283 Lok Sabha seats will be decided, marking the conclusion of elections for more than half of the 543 seats. Voting commenced at 7 AM and will continue till 6 PM. Gujarat, Goa, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu will complete their voting today. Additionally, all 28 seats of Karnataka and 11 seats of Chhattisgarh will finish voting. Other states participating in this phase include Assam, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. Key contestants in this phase include Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Jyotiraditya Scindia, and Dimple Yadav. A notable contest to watch is between Supriya Sule and Sunetra Pawar for the Baramati seat in Maharashtra. Union Ministers Mansukh Mandaviya, Parshottam Rupala, and Pralhad Joshi are also contesting in this phase. In the previous 2019 elections, the BJP and its allies secured 75 out of the 93 seats being contested today. Approximately 17.24 crore voters are eligible to vote in this phase, with over 18.5 lakh polling officials deployed across 1.85 lakh polling stations. Voting for the first two phases occurred on April 19 and 26, with the remaining phases scheduled for May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1. Vote counting will take place on June 4. The BJP-led NDA aims to secure a third consecutive term, targeting 400 seats. They face opposition from parties led by the Congress under the INDIA bloc. Khagaria Witnesses Active Participation in Phase 3 Voting The Khagaria Lok Sabha constituency in Bihar sees significant involvement from women voters during the ongoing third phase of Lok Sabha Elections 2024. Bihar is voting for five seats in this phase. Voter Turnout Reaches 10.57% by 9 AM As of 9 AM, the voter turnout in the third phase of polling stands at 10.57%. Assam recorded 10.12%, Bihar 10.03%, Chhattisgarh 13.24%, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, and Daman & Diu 10.13%, while Goa saw 12.35% turnout, according to the Election Commission of India. Phase 3 Voting Begins in 2024 Lok Sabha Elections: Key Candidates and States PM Modi's Transit Visit: Meeting Booth Workers, Public Meeting in Dhar-Khargone

India Lok Sabha Elections 2024: What's at Stake in Phase 3?

As India's Lok Sabha elections continue, millions head to the polls on May 7 for the third phase of the seven-phase election. Notable figures like Amit Shah, India's Minister of Home Affairs, and Jyotiraditya Scindia, Minister of Civil Aviation and Steel, are in the fray alongside personalities like Badruddin Ajmal, owner of the perfume brand Ajmal. The third phase covers 93 seats in the Lok Sabha across 11 states and union territories. Gujarat, Modi's home state, is a focal point with 25 seats, although one seat in Surat won't be contested as the ruling BJP candidate already secured victory due to withdrawals by opponents. The previous phases saw lower-than-average voter turnout and concerns over hate speeches and Election Commission impartiality. Despite this, the current Prime Minister Narendra Modi maintains popularity, with inflation and job shortages cited as growing concerns. Key constituencies include Gandhinagar, Gujarat, a BJP stronghold since 1989, contested by Amit Shah. Jyotiraditya Scindia, having switched from the Congress to the BJP, contests from Guna, Madhya Pradesh. Badruddin Ajmal vies for reelection from Dhubri, Assam, advocating for Muslim rights in a region with a significant Muslim population. Phase 3 voters hail from states like Karnataka, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Assam, Goa, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, Maharashtra, West Bengal, and union territories. Voting starts at 7 am and ends at 6 pm, with results expected on June 4. The BJP governs several states in this phase, while West Bengal is under the All India Trinamool Congress Party. In 2019, the BJP secured 80 seats out of the 93 being contested in Phase 3, with Congress and allies claiming 11. One independent candidate also won in Assam. With 190 MPs already decided in the first two phases, the nation progresses through this democratic exercise, shaping the future leadership and direction of India. Phase 3 of Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Voter Turnout and Key Contestants Update Phase 3 Voting Begins in 2024 Lok Sabha Elections: Key Candidates and States PM Modi's Transit Visit: Meeting Booth Workers, Public Meeting in Dhar-Khargone

Two cyber investment rackets cheating people of Rs 1.64 crore busted

HYDERABAD: In two separate cases, the Hyderabad police arrested seven people on Monday for allegedly duping city residents of at least Rs 1.11 crore via cyber investment fraud. Apart from these two cases, the accused were booked in 19 similar fraud cases in Telangana, through which they amassed a sum of Rs 1.64 crore. In the first case, the four accused lied to the victim for recruitment in a trading company, then lured him into purchasing the IPO stocks and holding them for 30 days to earn good returns, Commissioner Kothakota Sreenivasa Reddy said while addressing the media. Of the four, one was an ex-employee of a prominent private bank and used to help the accomplices open fake current bank accounts in different banks through known officials. The accused then sold these bank accounts on commission based on the transactions carried out in those accounts to the prime accused, who absconded abroad. The police said, initially, the cyber fraudsters used to give small profit amounts to gain the trust of the victims, after which they would insist on investing huge sums. Once done, they would stop responding to them. While the amount was initially transferred into a single bank account, upon analysing it, the cops came across 24 more fake Shell Company bank accounts, for a total of Rs 22.24 crore. A total of 171 cases were registered against the four accused - two from Rajasthan and one each from Bihar and Delhi - with 11 alone in Telangana, where they have amassed Rs 1.43 crore from the victims so far. The cops have registered a case under IPC U/s 66(C),(D) IT Act & Sec 419 and 420. Similarly, in the second cyber investment fraud case, the police arrested three people for cheating a person for Rs 3,45,570. The accused were booked in 10 similar cases previously in Telangana and 92 cases nationwide.

Jagan Races Ahead In Andhra Poll Race

Scenes from the election campaign in New Delhi, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Amritsar, Ranchi and Guwahati.

One vote, 10 guarantee schemes: Congress' Randeep Singh Surjewala urges voters to support the party

One vote, 10 guarantee schemes: Congress' Randeep Singh Surjewala urges voters to support the party While the third phase of Lok Sabha elections is going on, Congress' Randeep Singh Surjewala took to his official X handle and appealed to the voters to vote for the party for a 'peaceful tomorrow.' He also tweeted about the party's five guarantees that have reached the public. In a post on X, Surjewala said, One vote, 10 guaranteed (schemes)... By fulfilling the promises made in the last assembly election, the guarantee schemes have reached the houses and the common people are leading their lives comfortably. He added further, Now, for the further improvement of your standard of living and for the future of your children, the National Congress has also announced five guarantees and our party has already proved this. Vote for Congress party for your peaceful tomorrow. Meanwhile, the Karnataka Congress on its official X handle also posted about how one vote to the Congress will guarantee 10 schemes to people. In a post, the Karnataka Congress tweeted, One vote, ten guaranteed (schemes). Five guarantee schemes of the state government have already been successfully implemented and are helping people's lives. After the coming of the Congress government at the centre, five more justice guarantees will be implemented and will change people's lives. The post further said, Support Congress's promise of comprehensive development including students, farmers, women, workers, backward classes. Karnataka has 28 Lok Sabha seats and elections in the state are being held in two phases. Voting for 14 seats concluded on April 26 and the voting for the remaining 14 seats is underway. The counting of votes is scheduled for June 4. In 2019, BJP almost swept the state by winning 25 out of 28 seats, while Congress and JD-S-- who were running a coalition government in the state--could only win one seat each. This time BJP and JD-S are in coalition with the former fighting on 25 seats, while the latter is contesting three seats. The polling is going on for 93 Lok Sabha seats across 12 states and union territories in the third phase of the general election. The states and union territories where the elections are being held in this phase are Assam (4), Bihar (5), Chhattisgarh (7), Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (2), Goa (2), Gujarat (25), Karnataka (14), Maharashtra (11), Madhya Pradesh (8), Uttar Pradesh (10) and West Bengal (4). The BJP has bagged the Surat seat unopposed. In this phase, more than 1300 candidates, including around 120 women, are in the fray. A total of 17.24 crore voters are eligible to cast their franchise in this phase at 1.85 lakh polling stations. In the 2019 general election, the BJP won 72 of the 93 seats that go to the polls today. The Lok Sabha elections are being held across seven phases, from April 19 to June 1. The counting is scheduled for June 4. The Narendra Modi-led BJP is seeking a third term in power, while the opposition INDIA bloc is aiming to wrest power by stopping the juggernaut. (ANI)

Despite scorching heat, voting trends are very encouraging says Amit Shah, urges people to elect 'stable govt'

Despite scorching heat, voting trends are very encouraging says Amit Shah, urges people to elect 'stable govt' Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday asserted that despite the scorching heat, the voting trends are very encouraging and appealed to the voters to come out in large numbers and vote for a stable government. Speaking to reporters, Amit Shah appealed to all the voters across the country and also to the voters of Gujarat to come forward and participate in this festival of democracy Today is the voting for the third phase of Lok Sabha elections. I would like to make a heartfelt appeal to all the voters across the country and also to the voters of Gujarat to come forward and participate in this festival of democracy and elect a stable government that provides a safe, prosperous country. Elect a government which is against corruption, wants to eradicate poverty, wants to make a self-reliant India, wants to make a developed India and wants to take India number one in every field in the whole world, Amit Shah said. Shah further said that the voting trends in the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections are very encouraging. Despite the scorching heat, the voting trends are very encouraging. As far as Gujarat is concerned, about 20 per cent of voting has been completed by the voters of Gujarat in just 2.5 hours. I have full confidence that the voters will elect a government that will provide stability, security, and prosperity and will make India free from poverty. Today, on the occasion of this festival of democracy, I convey my best wishes to all the countrymen and appeal to them to participate in this festival of democracy, he added. Earlier, Amit Shah, along with his wife Sonal Shah, also offered prayers at the Kameshwar Mahadev temple in Ahmedabad. Shah also showed the victory sign after casting his vote. Amit Shah cast his vote in Ahmedabad, Gujarat for the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections. He was accompanied by his wife, his son and BCCI Secretary Jay Shah at the polling booth at the Sub-Zonal office near Kameshwar Mahadev Temple, Naranpura area. Earlier this morning, Amit Shah urged voters to step out and vote for the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections and asked voters to elect a government that has experience in public welfare and a lueprint for a developed India. In the third phase of the Lok Sabha Election, I appeal to all the voters who are going to cast their votes today to accept voting as a duty towards contributing to nation-building. Once again, vote for a corruption-free, caste-free, and dynasticism-free system. Elect a government that has experience in public welfare and a blueprint for a developed India, Amit Shah posted on X. Your vote will lay the foundation of good fortune for not only you but also for the entire nation for decades to come, he said. Shah is the party's candidate for the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha seat. Congress has fielded its party secretary, Sonal Patel, from Gandhinagar. Shah is seeking his second term from the seat of Gandhinagar. The seat is considered one of the prestigious bastions of the party, it has been represented by veterans like LK Advani. Polling is on for 93 Lok Sabha seats across 12 states and union territories in the third phase of the general election today at 7:00 am. The states and union territories where the elections are being held in this phase are Assam (4), Bihar (5), Chhattisgarh (7), Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (2), Goa (2), Gujarat (25), Karnataka (14), Maharashtra (11), Madhya Pradesh (8), Uttar Pradesh (10) and West Bengal (4). The BJP has bagged the Surat seat unopposed. In this phase, more than 1300 candidates, including around 120 women, are in the fray. A total of 17.24 crore voters are eligible to cast their franchise in this phase at 1.85 lakh polling stations. In the 2019 general election, the BJP won 72 of the 93 seats that go to the polls today. The Lok Sabha elections are being held across seven phases, from April 19 to June 1. The counting of votes is scheduled for June 4. (ANI)

Lok Sabha Election 2024 Phase 3 : Polling under way in 93 constituencies; PM Modi casts vote in Ahmedabad

New Delhi, May 7: The polling started for 93 Lok Sabha seats across 12 states and union territories in the third phase of the General Election on Tuesday at 7 am. The states and union territories where the elections are being held in this phase are Assam (4), Bihar (5), Chhattisgarh (7), Dadra and Nagar [] The post Lok Sabha Election 2024 Phase 3 : Polling under way in 93 constituencies; PM Modi casts vote in Ahmedabad appeared first on Northlines .

Not an ordinary election...: Rahul Gandhi urges voters to come out in large numbers

Not an ordinary election...: Rahul Gandhi urges voters to come out in large numbers Terming the 2024 Lok Sabha polls as ot an ordinary election, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday urged the voters to come out in large numbers. In a post on X, Rahul said, Today is the third phase of voting! I request all of you to come out in large numbers and vote to protect your rights. Remember, this is not an ordinary election, it is an election to protect the democracy and constitution of the country. Earlier, Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge urged countrymen to come in large numbers and vote in the third phase of the ongoing Lok Sabha election and asked the people when they press the button on the EVM, to keep in mind that they are deciding not just their future but the collective future of 140 crore fellow Indians. In a post on X, Kharge said that a correct decision now can create an India where Justice is supreme. The Republican Party of India (Athawale) national president and Union Minister Ramdas Athawale on Monday wrote to the Chief Election Commissioner, Rajiv Kumar, urging action against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for making false allegation that RSS and Prime Minister Narendra Modi want to abolish the Constitution to end the basic rights of Dalits and deprived sections of society. Meanwhile, voting is underway for 93 Lok Sabha seats across 12 states and union territories in the third phase of the general election on Tuesday. The states and union territories where the elections are being held in this phase are Assam (4), Bihar (5), Chhattisgarh (7), Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (2), Goa (2), Gujarat (25), Karnataka (14), Maharashtra (11), Madhya Pradesh (8), Uttar Pradesh (10) and West Bengal (4). The BJP has bagged the Surat seat unopposed. (ANI)

Modi votes as polling underway for 93 seats in Phase 3

The states and union territories where the elections are being held in this phase are Assam (4), Bihar (5), Chhattisgarh (7), Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (2), Goa (2), Gujarat (25), Karnataka (14), Maharashtra (11), Madhya Pradesh (8), Uttar Pradesh (10) and West Bengal (4). The BJP has bagged the Surat seat unopposed.

Home Minister Amit Shah casts his vote for third phase of Lok Sabha elections in Ahmedabad

Home Minister Amit Shah casts his vote for third phase of Lok Sabha elections in Ahmedabad Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday cast his vote in Ahmedabad, Gujarat for the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections. Amit Shah was accompanied by his wife, son Jay Shah, at the polling booth at the Sub-Zonal office near Kameshwar Mahadev Temple, Naranpura area. He, along with his family members, stand in a queue as they await their turn to cast their votes. Earlier, Amit Shah urged voters to step out and vote for the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections and asked voters to elect a government that has experience in public welfare and a lueprint for a developed India. In the third phase of the Lok Sabha Election, I appeal to all the voters who are going to cast their votes today to accept voting as a duty towards contributing to nation-building. Once again, vote for a corruption-free, caste-free, and dynasticism-free system. Elect a government that has experience in public welfare and a blueprint for a developed India, Amit Shah posted on X. Your vote will lay the foundation of good fortune for not only you but also for the entire nation for decades to come, he said. This morning, the Union Home Minister met people at a residential society in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Amit Shah is the party's candidate for the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha seat. Congress has fielded its party secretary, Sonal Patel, from Gandhinagar. Shah is seeking his second term from the seat of Gandhinagar. The seat is considered one of the prestigious bastions of the party, it has been represented by veterans like LK Advani. Earlier this morning Prime Minister cast his vote at Nishan Higher Secondary School in Ahmedabad, Gujarat for the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections. Polling started for 93 Lok Sabha seats across 12 states and union territories in the third phase of the general election today at 7:00 am. The states and union territories where the elections are being held in this phase are Assam (4), Bihar (5), Chhattisgarh (7), Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (2), Goa (2), Gujarat (25), Karnataka (14), Maharashtra (11), Madhya Pradesh (8), Uttar Pradesh (10) and West Bengal (4). The BJP has bagged the Surat seat unopposed. In this phase, more than 1300 candidates, including around 120 women, are in the fray. A total of 17.24 crore voters are eligible to cast their franchise in this phase at 1.85 lakh polling stations. Seventy-five delegates from 23 countries will see the poll process, the poll panel said.Voting will not take place for Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag-Rajouri Lok Sabha seat on Tuesday as the Election Commission of India (ECI) has postponed the polling to the sixth phase to be held on May 25. Originally, voting was scheduled to be held on 94 Lok Sabha seats in the third phase. However, elections were rescheduled from the second to the third phase in the Betul Lok Sabha seat of Madhya Pradesh due to the death of the BSP candidate. The BJP candidate in Surat has been declared the winner unopposed and due to the revised polling schedule in the Anantnag-Rajouri seat, the total seats now going to poll are 93. In the 2019 general election, the BJP won 72 of the 93 seats that go to the polls today. The Lok Sabha elections are being held across seven phases, from April 19 to June 1. The counting is scheduled for June 4. (ANI)

Today's Birthday: 7th May 2024

Happy Birthday & welcome to special section of Webdunia. Here, We render the Astro update & sheds light on the personality of the Birthday Boy/ Girl. Your birth date is 7 th of the month hence, your birth number becomes (0+7) 7. The number is directed by the Neptune planet. The people influenced by number 7 possess many traits. These people are like water, as water finds its way to flow in any given situation, same goes with number 7 people. These sharp eyed people can sneak into the heart of any person. Lucky Day : 7, 6, 25 Lucky Number : 7, 16,25, 34 Lucky Year : 2014, 2018, 2023 Ishtdev : Lord Shiva and Vishnu Lucky color : Green, Pink, Mehroon The year ahead This year you are cruising to achieve your professional goals. You play a team man and ensure the collective objective is met before the deadline. For students, employee class and businessmen the year bring a lot to cheer about. If you are planning to kick off a new venture put a saffron 'tilak' and hoist a flag on the top of the temple. Celebs with birth number 7 Rabindranath Tagore Atal Bihari Vajpayee Pablo Picasso Kavita Krishnamurthy Danny Denzongpa

Vote for corruption-free, caste-free, dynasticism-free system, says Amit Shah

Vote for corruption-free, caste-free, dynasticism-free system, says Amit Shah Union Home Minister Amit Shah urged voters to step out and vote for the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections and asked voters to elect a government that has experience in public welfare and a lueprint for a developed India. In the third phase of the Lok Sabha Election, I appeal to all the voters who are going to cast their votes today to accept voting as a duty towards contributing to nation-building. Once again, vote for a corruption-free, caste-free, and dynasticism-free system. Elect a government that has experience in public welfare and a blueprint for a developed India, Amit Shah posted on X. Your vote will lay the foundation of good fortune for not only you but also for the entire nation for decades to come, he said This morning, the Union Home Minister met people at a residential society in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Amit Shah is the party's candidate from the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha seat. Congress has fielded its party secretary Sonal Patel from Gandhinagar. Shah is seeking his second term from the seat of Gandhinagar. The seat is considered one of the prestigious bastions for the party, that has been represented by veterans like LK Advani. Earlier this morning Prime Minister cast his vote at Nishan Higher Secondary School in Ahmedabad, Gujarat for the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections. Polling started for 93 Lok Sabha seats across 12 states and union territories in the third phase of the general election today at 7:00 am. The states and union territories where the elections are being held in this phase are Assam (4), Bihar (5), Chhattisgarh (7), Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (2), Goa (2), Gujarat (25), Karnataka (14), Maharashtra (11), Madhya Pradesh (8), Uttar Pradesh (10) and West Bengal (4). The BJP has bagged the Surat seat unopposed.' In this phase, more than 1300 candidates, including around 120 women, are in the fray.A total of 17.24 crore voters are eligible to cast their franchise in this phase at 1.85 lakh polling stations. Seventy-five delegates from 23 countries will see the poll process, the poll panel said. Voting is not taking place for Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag-Rajouri Lok Sabha seat on today as the Election Commission of India (ECI) has postponed the polling to the sixth phase to be held on May 25. Originally, voting was scheduled to be held on 94 Lok Sabha seats in the third phase. However, elections were rescheduled from the second to the third phase in the Betul Lok Sabha seat of Madhya Pradesh due to the death of the BSP candidate. The BJP candidate in Surat has been declared the winner unopposed and due to the revised polling schedule in the Anantnag-Rajouri seat, the total seats now going to poll are 93. In the 2019 general election, the BJP won 72 of the 93 seats that go to the polls today.The Lok Sabha elections are being held across seven phases, from April 19 to June 1. The counting is scheduled for June 4. (ANI)

Jungle raj to prevail if INDIA partners form govt, says Shah

PATNA : Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said jungle raj(lawlessness) would prevail in the country if opposition INDI alliance comes to power at the centre. Addressing an election rally in Bihars Ujiarpur Lok Sabha constituency from where minister of state for home Nityanand Rai is contesting as BJP candidate, Shah said that Bihar had witnessed jungle raj during the RJD regime. Since Lalus Lalu Prasads Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) is a part of opposition INDI alliance, a similar jungle raj-like situation would rule the country, he warned amid thunderous applause. Terming Congress anti-backward and also opposed to their reservation, Shah said that reservations were given to Muslims in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh by respective state governments. The quotas would be abolished in the two states once the BJP forms government. He said that the Congress government in Karnataka provided 5% reservation to Muslims overnight by slashing reservation quotas of the Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs) sans any survey. A similar policy was adopted by the Andhra Pradesh government where Muslims were provided 4% reservation by cutting into reservation quotas of Backward Classes. Providing reservation on the basis of religion is against the Constitutional norms. There is no such provision in the constitution, he said, adding that all such steps were taken by Congress governments keeping vote banks in mind. You know better who the vote bank of Congress is, he asserted. Lalu Prasad and his son Tejashwi Prasad Yadav were aligning with the Congress, which had opposed reservations to the Backward Classes, he alleged. Congress provided 5% reservation for Muslims Terming Congress anti-backward, Amit Shah said that reservations were given to Muslims in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh by respective state governments. He said The quotas would be abolished in the two states once the BJP forms government. that the Congress government in Karnataka provided 5% reservation to Muslims overnight by slashing reservation quotas of the Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs) sans any survey. A similar policy was adopted by the Andhra Pradesh government where Muslims were provided 4% reservation by cutting into reservation quotas of Backward Classes.

Lok Sabha Elections Phase 3: PM Modi casts vote in Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad: After casting his vote in the third phase of Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday emphasised the importance of 'Daan' in our country and said that India's election process and election management are examples for the world's democracies to learn from. Speaking to reporters in Ahmedabad, the Prime Minister urged the voters to cast their votes in large numbers. Today is voting for 3rd phase of the Lok Sabha Election 2024. I appeal to countrymen that they should vote in large numbers. In a democracy, 'MatDaan' is not a routine exercise. There is great importance of 'Daan' in our country and in the same spirit, the countrymen should vote as much as possible. 4 rounds of voting are still ahead. As a voter in Gujarat, this is the only place where I vote regularly and Amit Bhai is contesting from here as a Bharatiya Janata Party candidate. Last night, I arrived here from Andhra. I am here in Gujarat, and then I have to go to Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Telangana too. I won't be able to speak much but I want to thank the Gujarat voters and countrymen who cast their votes with great enthusiasm, PM Modi said. He further said that the elections are held in 64 countries and there should be a comparison of all of them. India's election process and election management are examples for the world's democracies to learn from. The world's biggest universities should do a case study. There are elections in around 64 countries and there should be a comparison of all of them. This year is like a celebration of democracy. All the media friends in India have more than 900 TV channels. There are more than 5,000 daily newspapers and they are completely coloured in the colours of elections. I again tell the countrymen to vote in large numbers and celebrate the festival of democracy, he said. He also urged the mediapersons to take care of their health and intake as much water as they can. You (media persons) are working day and night, so please take care of your health. During the election period, the media person has to run here and there. I want to appeal to all of you to take care of your health and drink a lot of water as much as you can, he said. The Prime Minister cast his vote at Nishan Higher Secondary School in Ahmedabad, Gujarat for the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections. Prime Minister Modi also shared a light-hearted moment with a child as he greeted people after casting his vote at a polling booth in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. He also stopped on the way and waved to people and even signed a sketch of himself. PM Modi, draped in his customary Kurta Payjama and saffron-coloured half jacket, also showed the indelible ink mark on his finger after casting his vote. The polling started for 93 Lok Sabha seats across 12 states and union territories in the third phase of the general election on Tuesday at 7:00 am. The states and union territories where the elections are being held in this phase are Assam (4), Bihar (5), Chhattisgarh (7), Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (2), Goa (2), Gujarat (25), Karnataka (14), Maharashtra (11), Madhya Pradesh (8), Uttar Pradesh (10) and West Bengal (4). The BJP has bagged the Surat seat unopposed.' In this phase, more than 1300 candidates, including around 120 women, are in the fray. A total of 17.24 crore voters are eligible to cast their franchise in this phase at 1.85 lakh polling stations. Seventy-five delegates from 23 countries will see the poll process, the poll panel said. Voting will not take place for Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag-Rajouri Lok Sabha seat on Tuesday as the Election Commission of India (ECI) has postponed the polling to the sixth phase to be held on May 25. Originally, voting was scheduled to be held on 94 Lok Sabha seats in the third phase. However, elections were rescheduled from the second to the third phase in the Betul Lok Sabha seat of Madhya Pradesh due to the death of the BSP candidate. The BJP candidate in Surat has been declared the winner unopposed and due to the revised polling schedule in the Anantnag-Rajouri seat, the total seats now going to poll are 93. In 2019 general election the BJP won 72 of the 93 seats that go to the polls today. The Lok Sabha elections are being held across seven phases, from April 19 to June 1. The counting is scheduled for June 4.

Kerala: Firearms including pistols, bullets recovered from house in Aluva

KOCHI : Following a tip-off by the Kerala Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS), police raided a house and recovered two pistols, two airguns and 20 rounds of bullets at Manjaly near Aluva on Monday. Police arrested Riyas of Manjaly for keeping arms and ammunition illegally. Police also recovered over Rs 9 lakh and two swords from the house. The information was given by ATS that firearms were stocked at a house in Manjaly. Soon our team raided the house and recovered two pistols, two airguns, 20 rounds of bullets and five pellets of airguns. The pistols were not licensed. Riyas is being interrogated and we are conducting a probe, Ernakulam rural police chief Vaibhav Saxena said. Aluva DySP A Prasad said that Riyas was into anti-social activities. His association with criminal gangs is being verified. He was an accused in a murder case. We are checking his criminal antecedents. We are also questioning him regarding the source of firearms and whether he was part of any criminal gang. Also source of money has to be checked. Riyas was present at his house when we carried out the raid, Prasad said. Aluva West police will register a case under the Arms Act against Riyas. He will be produced before the court on Tuesday. Later, police will approach the court seeking his custody. In recent years, multiple cases of firearms seizure from criminal gangs were reported from Ernakulam district. It was found that, in most of the cases, pistols were bought from Bihar. Many places raided in Kerala and Tamil Nadu Kerala Anti Terrorist Squad (ATS) on Monday carried out raids at multiple locations in Kerala and Tamil Nadu to trace the associates of dreaded gangster Perumbavoor Anas. The drive was conducted in coordination with the Tamil Nadu police. It was as part of this operation that police raided the house of Manjaly native Riyas and recovered fire arms. Apart from Riyas house, the house of Althaf at Thannikal near Elamakkara was also raided. The police team recovered a pouch used for keeping pistol, handcuff and pellets of air gun from Althafs residence. The residence of another close aide of Anas, Nizar of Manjeri, was also raided by the team. A resort in Rajakkad where Nizar worked was raided but he managed to flee from the place. Houses at Guruvayur and Wayanad were also raided. During the search, the police team got information that firearms were buried behind a resort in Wayanad. Though the police searched the entire resort compound, no arms or ammunition could be found. The police team also raided the house of Shaji Pappan, another close associate of Anas, in Perumbavoor. The ATS also raided residences and resorts at Annamalai and Mettupalayam. Perumbavoor Anas, who is involved in multiple criminal cases, escaped from India using a fake passport.

Kerala: 1 dead, 6 hurt as scaffolding at construction site caves in

KOCHI: A migrant worker was killed and six others were injured when the scaffolding of an under-construction building at Kakkanad Smart City collapsed on Monday. Uttam Singh, 32, of Gopalganj, Bihar, died when the temporary structure caved in. Romith, Sikandar, Aman, Rajan, Bapan and Jaglu were admitted to various hospitals with injuries. The condition of one of them is said to be critical. According to fire and rescue service officials, the incident took place between 9am and 9.30am. The workers were carrying out gypsum work on the exterior portion of the Lulu IT Infrabuild building when the accident occurred. We received the distress call around 9.30am. The scaffolding gave way and fell over three workers, including Uttam. The other four workers managed to scamper away to safety with minor injuries. We managed to rescue two workers. Uttam, who was badly sandwiched between the pipes, was crushed to death, an official said. Uttams body was recovered after a one-and-half-hour-long operation. Officials from Thrikkakara, Tripunithura and Gandhi Nagar fire stations took part in the operation. We are yet to ascertain the reason for the collapse of the scaffolding. Police will investigate the matter, he said. Infopark police have registered a case of unnatural death and launched an investigation. The body of the deceased was shifted to a government hospital. The mortal remains will be handed over to relatives after the postmortem. The company that hired the workers will make arrangements for moving Uttams body to his native place, an officer said.

Bihar: Polling underway in 5 LS seats in 3rd phase

Patna, May 7 (UNI) Polling began on a peaceful note for the third phase of Lok Sabha elections in five seats in Bihar amid tight security arrangements at 7 am on Tuesday. A total of 98,60,397 electorate would be exercising their franchise to decide the fate of 54 candidates including three women. Lok Sabha seats... The post Bihar: Polling underway in 5 LS seats in 3rd phase first appeared on Central India's Premier English Daily .

LS polls 2024: Stakes high for Kharge, BSY, NCP in Phase 3

NEW DELHI/BENGALURU: The electoral fate of half-a-dozen Union ministers and two former chief ministers will be sealed on Wednesday in the third phase of the general elections is 93 constituencies in 11 states and Union territories. The BJP sees the third phase as one of consolidation as compared to the first two phases. Prominent among the heavyweight candidates in this phase are Union home minister Amit Shah in Gandhinagar, Union health minister Mansukh Mandaviya (Porbandar), civil aviation minister Jyotiraditya M Scindia (Guna), former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Digvijaya Singh (Rajgarh), NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar)s Supriya Sule (Baramati), and Adhir Ranjan Choudhary (Berhampur). In Uttar Pradesh, representatives of the Mulayam Singh Yadav clan are contesting in this phase Dimple Yadav from Mainpuri, Akshaya Yadav, son of Ram Gopal Yadav, from Firozabad and Aditya Yadav, son of Shivpal Yadav, from Budaun. In Karnataka, the last of the 14 seats will go to polls in what is being seen as a high-stakes battle for Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge. For, most of the seats are in North Karnataka, which is regarded as his home turf. The elections are equally important for former chief minister B S Yediyurappa, whose son Vijayendra is the state BJP president. Prominent among those in the fray in Karnataka are former CMs Basavaraj Bommai (Haveri) and Jagadish Shettar (Belgaum), Union ministers Pralhad Joshi (Dharwad) and Bhagwant Khuba (Bidar), Yediyurappas son Raghavendra (Shivamogga), and Kharges son-in-law Radhakrishna Doddamani (Gulbarga SC). According to sources, around 30-40 constituencies in the third phase will witness triangular contests, giving sitting Lok Sabha members a really tough time. Most of the sitting MPs are from the ruling BJP. Phase 3 factoids 93 seats for which polling will be held in 11 states/UTs 1,300 candidates including around 120 women, in the fray 11 crore people eligible to vote Entire Gujarat and Goa, 11 seats in Maharashtra, 10 in UP, 14 in Karnataka, 7 in Chhattisgarh, 5 in Bihar, 4 each in Assam and West Bengal to go to polls

Voting underway in five Lok Sabha constituencies in Bihar

Voting underway in five Lok Sabha constituencies in Bihar Polling began for five Lok Sabha seats in Bihar on Tuesday morning, amid tight security, officials said. The voting started at 7 am in Araria, Jhanjharpur, Supaul, Madhepura and Khagaria, all currently held by the NDA, and will continue till 6 pm, they said. Over 98 lakh voters will decide the electoral fate of 54 candidates in these five seats in the third phase of Lok Sabha elections. The BJP holds Araria, where sitting MP Pradeep Singh's bid to retain the seat has received the main challenge from RJD's Shahnawaz, whose late father Taslimuddin, a former Union minister, had wrested the constituency from the saffron party leader in 2014, surmounting the Modi wave. The RJD is also locked in straight battles with JD(U) in Madhepura and Supaul. In Madhepura, from where RJD chief Lalu Prasad had himself won twice, JD(U) MP Dinesh Chandra Yadav's bid to hold on to the seat is being challenged by Kumar Chandradeep, who teaches English at a college in Patna, but also happens to be the son of late Ramendra Kumar Yadav, who had been a member of both Houses in Parliament. In adjoining Supaul, the RJD has counterintuitively fielded Chandrahas Choupal, its MLA from one of the two reserved assembly segments falling in the Lok Sabha constituency. Jhanjharpur has gone to the Vikassheel Insan Party (VIP) headed by former state minister Mukesh Sahni, who belatedly joined the Mahagathbandhan and got three seats from the RJD's quota of 26, in a state where the total number is 40. Khagaria is one seat where the contest is, primarily, between two debutants. The sitting MP Mehboob Ali Kaiser, who won the seat twice on the trot for Lok Janshakti Party of late Ram Vilas Paswan, has been denied a ticket by the latter's son Chirag. Chirag, whose party is now known as LJP (Ram Vilas), has fielded a confidant Rajesh Verma, prompting Kaiser to join RJD. Kaiser's son Yusuf Salahuddin is the RJD MLA from Simri Bakhtiyarpur, which falls under Khagaria. The sympathy in favour of Kaiser, who is also a former state Congress president, could boost the prospects of ally CPI(M) candidate Sanjay Kumar Kushwaha in this seat.

Five Bihar Constituencies See Voter Turnout in Third Phase of Parliamentary Elections

Five Bihar Constituencies See Voter Turnout in Third Phase of Parliamentary Elections Voting begins for five constituencies in third phase of Parliamentary polls in Bihar: Official.

This poll is a fight to save democracy

Thunderstorm, lightning in parts of Bihar likely today

Tight security in Khagaria