#BJP alliance talks

[townpostin]

Champai Soren and Sudesh Mahto Meet BJP Leaders in Delhi

Former JMM leader and AJSU supremo discuss seat sharing for upcoming Jharkhand assembly elections Champai Soren and Sudesh Mahto arrive in Delhi to meet BJP leaders, including Amit Shah, for seat-sharing talks ahead of Jharkhand elections. NEW DELHI – Former JMM leader Champai Soren and AJSU Party chief Sudesh Mahto have traveled to Delhi to discuss seat-sharing arrangements with BJP leaders for…

[vinnymusings]

Save Andhra pradesh with your Vote (In Telugu)

Manam entertainment korukuntunam kabati mana nayakulu kuda devlopment kakunda entertainment ey istunaru, anduke manam jokerlu ipoyam, paka rastrala vallu pakka desala vallu mana mokhalu chusi navukuntunaru! Idi siggu padalsina vishayam kadu serious ga tisukovalsina vishayam! elections degaraki vastunayi ante chalu chinna pedha ani theda lekunda ekadapadite akada istam ochinatu vagutam. Manam…

[nohkalikai]

full text:

Activist calls for border march in Ladakh to mark land lost to China

The march would be taken out in the north and south banks of Pangong Tso lake, Demchok, Chushul among others along the Line of Actual Control with China; two dates are shortlisted — March 27 and April 7

Around 10,000 people from Ladakh will march to the border along China this month to showcase how much land has been lost to the neighbouring country, climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk said on Tuesday.

Mr. Wangchuk has been protesting in open in sub-zero temperature in Leh, surviving only on salt and water for the past 14 days, to demand constitutional safeguards for the Union Territory.

“We know from the shepherds that they are not allowed [anymore] to go to the places that they always used to go. In particular areas, they are stopped kilometres before where they used to go earlier. We will go and show whether land has been lost or not,” Mr. Wangchuk said.

The march would be taken out in Finger area (north and south bank of Pangong Tso), Demchok, Chushul among others along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.

He said two dates have been shortlisted for the march — March 27 and April 7.

“The march will also highlight the areas, prime pasture lands, that are being turned into solar parks. On one hand, nomads are losing their land to corporates who are coming to set up their plants, maybe mining in future. Nomads will lose 150,000 sq km of prime pasture land, on the other hand they are losing pasture land to China which is encroaching from the north, the Chinese have captured huge chunks of land in the last few years,” he said.

After the June 15, 2020 incident in Galwan where 20 Indian soldiers were killed in violent clashes with the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, several rounds of talks between the two armies have taken place leading to disengagement and creation of buffer zones or no-go areas. These areas in eastern Ladakh were regularly patrolled before April 2020 when China started amassing troops close to the LAC. At least 26 patrolling points out of total 65 PPs in Eastern Ladakh are not being patrolled due to the border dispute.

At the centre of Mr. Wangchuk’s protest that has received huge support from the locals is the failure of talks between Ladakh civil society leaders and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on March 4.

The members of Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) representing the Buddhist majority and Shia Muslim dominated regions respectively in Ladakh, are jointly protesting for Statehood for Ladakh, inclusion of Ladakh in the sixth schedule of the constitution thus giving it a tribal status, job reservation for locals and a parliamentary seat each for Leh and Kargil.

Though ministry officials had in previous rounds of meetings agreed to examine how the provisions of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution can be implemented in Ladakh’s context, the meeting with Mr. Shah “did not result in any positive outcome”.

“Government has been declining to keep their promise on Sixth Schedule. The Home Minister said we cannot give this but we will give you some constitutional safeguard,” Mr. Wangchuk said adding that he wants to awaken the people of India to this “breach of trust”.

“People are disillusioned, disenchanted and angry. There is no chance BJP will win a seat here in the upcoming elections. But this is not only for Ladakh, am trying to awaken the nation, if this is how election promises are honoured, then elections are a joke. Why did we vote this party to power twice?” he said. Ladakh’s only parliamentary seat was won by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2014 and 2019.

After the special status of Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 of the Constitution was revoked by the Parliament on August 5, 2019, Ladakh was turned into a Union Territory without any legislative assembly.

[newstfionline]

Saturday, April 20, 2024

Young People Get Their News from TikTok. That’s a Huge Problem for Democrats. (CJR) Democrats are doing the most awkward TikTok dance. The House’s attempt to force TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to sell the social media behemoth to an American entity has put Democrats from President Biden on down in a tough spot. Most are now on record backing a bill that could shutter a fast-growing platform that’s most popular with the young voters they so badly need. TikTok users aren’t just kids mindlessly scrolling dance videos. Roughly one-third of Americans aged 18–29 regularly get their news from TikTok, the Pew Research Center found in a late 2023 survey. Overall, TikTok claims 150 million American users, almost half the US population.

Russia Builds New Asia Trade Routes (Bloomberg) Russia is pressing ahead with construction of two new transport corridors linking Asia and Europe, seeking to weaken sanctions over its war in Ukraine at the same time as Middle East turmoil is disrupting global trade. The shipping and rail networks via Iran and an Arctic sea passage could strengthen Moscow’s pivot toward Asian powerhouses China and India and away from Europe. They have potential to embed Russia at the heart of much of international trade even as the US and its allies are trying to isolate President Vladimir Putin over the war. The routes could cut 30%-50% off transit times compared to the Suez Canal and avoid security problems plaguing the Red Sea as Houthi rebels attack international shipping over Israel’s war against Hamas in Gaza.

An ISIS Terror Group Draws Half Its Recruits From Tiny Tajikistan (NYT) The mother of one of the suspects in the bloody attack on a concert hall near Moscow last month wept as she talked about her son. “We need to understand—who is recruiting young Tajiks, why do they want to highlight us as a nation of terrorists?” said the mother, Muyassar Zargarova. Many governments and terrorism experts are asking the same question. Tajik adherents of the Islamic State—especially within its affiliate in Afghanistan known as the Islamic State Khorasan Province (I.S.K.P.), or ISIS-K—have taken increasingly high-profile roles in a string of recent terrorist attacks. Over the last year alone, Tajiks have been involved in assaults in Russia, Iran and Turkey, as well as foiled plots in Europe. ISIS-K is believed to have several thousand soldiers, with Tajiks constituting more than half, experts said.

India’s Lok Sabha Election (1440) The world’s largest democratic elections begin in India today as nearly 1 billion voters head to the polls. Over the next six weeks, voters will determine the composition of the 543-member Lok Sabha, the lower house of India’s parliament responsible for nominating a prime minister. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Hindu-nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party are seeking a third consecutive term against a coalition of parties called the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance. A simple majority of 272 seats is needed to rule for the five-year term—BJP won 303 seats last election. Economic concerns, particularly inflation and unemployment, are chief issues among voters. Modi, 73, is favored to win and maintains a 75% approval rating, particularly due to his government’s welfare programs and infrastructure projects.

Nearly half of China's major cities are sinking, researchers say (Reuters) Nearly half of China's major cities are suffering "moderate to severe" levels of subsidence, putting millions of people at risk of flooding especially as sea levels rise, according to a study of nationwide satellite data released on Friday. The authors of the paper, published by the journal Science, found 45% of China's urban land was sinking faster than 3 millimetres per year, with 16% at more than 10 mm per year, driven not only by declining water tables but also the sheer weight of the built environment. With China's urban population already in excess of 900 million people, "even a small portion of subsiding land in China could therefore translate into a substantial threat to urban life," said the team of researchers led by Ao Zurui of the South China Normal University. Subsidence already costs China more than 7.5 billion yuan ($1.04 billion) in annual losses, and within the next century, nearly a quarter of coastal land could actually be lower than sea levels, putting hundreds of millions of people at an even greater risk of inundation.

Iranians both nervous and relieved after narrow Israeli strike (Washington Post) An uneasy calm settled over Iran on Friday as residents took stock of Israel’s pre-dawn strike in the central province of Isfahan. The attack, which was narrow in scope, appeared aimed at de-escalating tensions, analysts and officials said, after a massive Iranian missile and drone attack against Israel last week. But Iranians in Isfahan, which hosts sensitive military and nuclear facilities, said the strike was a reminder of how close the country has come to an all-out war, after years in which Israel and Iran fought mainly in the shadows. Iranian officials and state media downplayed the attack, dismissing the strike as insignificant and saying the explosions reported in Isfahan, more than 200 miles south of Tehran, were from Iran’s air defenses intercepting drones. Israel has made no official public comment on the strike, and the primary target remained unclear. In Isfahan, a city famed for its ornate Islamic architecture, residents said life continued normally on Friday but that the streets were quieter than usual. The city is the third-largest in Iran with nearly 2 million residents.

Soldiers who lost limbs in Gaza fighting are finding healing on Israel’s amputee soccer team (AP) When Ben Binyamin was left for dead, his right leg blown off during the Hamas attack on the Tribe of Nova music festival, the Israeli professional soccer player thought he would never again play the game he loved. “When I woke up,” the 29-year-old said, “I felt I was going to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair.” Then Binyamin learned about a chance to be “normal” again: Israel’s national amputee soccer team. “It’s the best thing in my life,” said 1st Sgt. Omer Glikstal of the team’s twice-weekly practices at a stadium in the Tel Aviv suburb of Ramat Gan. “It’s a very different game than I used to play, but in the end, it’s the same,” he said. Amputee soccer teams have six fielder players who are missing lower limbs; they play on crutches and without prosthetics. Each team has a goalkeeper with a missing upper extremity. The pitch is smaller than standard. At team practices, the Israeli players are undeterred by the absence of an arm or a leg. “We all have something in common. We’ve been through a lot of hard and difficult times. It unites us,” said Aviran Ohana.

Israel blames Gaza starvation on U.N. (CBS News) Under pressure from the U.S. and other allies to flood the Gaza Strip with humanitarian aid, Israel insists it’s doing everything it can, and it blames the United Nations for the starvation of thousands of Palestinians in the war-torn enclave. In a Wednesday morning social media post, the Israeli government said it had “scaled up our capabilities” and it included a video clip showing hundreds of white containers that it said were loaded with aid and waiting for collection inside Gaza. The United Nations says it’s not just about getting food into Gaza, but distributing it once it reaches the territory. U.N. aid agencies say those operations have been severely hindered by the almost total destruction of Gaza’s civilian infrastructure. Many roads have been blown up, along with health, water, sanitation and food production facilities. Humanitarian workers do what they can. The demand to fill bowl after bowl at emergency food distribution points is never ending. Still, a third of children under the age of two in Gaza are currently acutely malnourished, according to the U.N. children’s charity UNICE.

Drought Pushes Millions Into ‘Acute Hunger’ in Southern Africa (NYT) An estimated 20 million people in southern Africa are facing what the United Nations calls “acute hunger” as one of the worst droughts in more than four decades shrivels crops, decimates livestock and, after years of rising food prices brought on by pandemic and war, spikes the price of corn, the region’s staple crop. Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe have all declared national emergencies. It is a bitter foretaste of what a warming climate is projected to bring to a region that’s likely to be acutely affected by climate change, though scientists said on Thursday that the current drought is more driven by the natural weather cycle known as El Niño than by global warming. Its effects are all the more punishing because in the past few years the region had been hit by cyclones, unusually heavy rains and a widening outbreak of cholera.

A Little Bit of Dirt Is Good for You (NYT) Scientists have long known that a little dirt can be good for you. Research has suggested that people who grow up on farms, for instance, have lower rates of Crohn’s disease, asthma and allergies, likely because of their exposure to a diverse array of microbes. In the 1970s, scientists even found a soil-dwelling bacterium, called Mycobacterium vaccae, that has an anti-inflammatory effect on our brains, possibly both lowering stress and improving our immune response to it. When we’re touching soil or even just out in nature, “we’re breathing in a tremendous amount of microbial diversity,” said Christopher A. Lowry, a professor of integrative physiology at the University of Colorado Boulder. A recent Finnish experiment found that children attending urban day cares where a native “forest floor” had been planted had both a stronger immune system and a healthier microbiome than those attending day cares with gravel yards—and continued to have beneficial gut and skin bacteria two years later. It’s not just good for kids; adults can also benefit from exposure to soil-dwelling microbes, Dr. Lowry said. So this spring, make a little time to go outside and get grimy.

[thegoldenstar]

Everyone in Ladakh knows China has taken away our land: Rahul Gandhi

On Sunday last, Gandhi had claimed that Modi's statement that not an inch of the land in Ladakh has been taken over by China is not true.

KARGIL: Raking up the border issue, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday said every individual in Ladakh knows that China has “taken away our land” and claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assertion that not an inch of land was taken away was “absolutely false.”

The former Congress president’s remarks come after Prime Minister Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a conversation on Wednesday on the sidelines of the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) summit in Johannesburg.

The conversation was not a structured bilateral meeting and was an informal one.

“I visited the whole of Ladakh on my motorcycle over the past week. Ladakh is a strategic place and when I was at Pangong lake, one thing was clear that China had taken over thousands of kilometers of Indian land. Unfortunately, the prime minister during an opposition meeting makes a statement that not an inch of our land was taken away which is ‘absolutely false’,” he said addressing a public meeting here on the last day of his nine-day tour of Ladakh.

“Every individual of Ladakh knows that China has taken away our land and the prime minister is not speaking the truth,” he alleged.

This is the second time during his Ladakh tour that the Congress leader has raked up the border issue with China.

On Sunday last, Gandhi had claimed that Modi’s statement that not an inch of the land in Ladakh has been taken over by China is not true.

India’s Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra on Thursday said Modi conveyed to Xi India’s concerns on the “unresolved” issues along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh, underlining that maintenance of peace and tranquillity in border areas was essential for normalisation of India-China ties.

The ties between India and China came under severe strain following the eastern Ladakh border row that began in May, 2020.

The Indian and Chinese troops are locked in an over three-year confrontation in certain friction points in eastern Ladakh even as the two sides completed disengagement from several areas following extensive diplomatic and military talks.

During the public meeting, Gandhi also extending support to Leh-based Apex body and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), which are fighting for full statehood and safeguards under sixth schedule of the Constitution, and said his party would not allow the BJP to hand over the resource-rich land of the union territory to its corporate friend.

The former Congress president said he was briefed by the people about their demand for political representation, safeguards for land, culture and language, unemployment, non-functional Kargil airport and the problem of cell phone coverage.

“I heard you and want to convey that the Congress is standing with you in your struggle, whether linked to the demand for safeguards or employment issues. All the people know that Ladakh is rich in natural resources. The 21st century is of solar energy and Ladakh has no dearth of it,” he said.

“The BJP knows and understands that if you will be given (political) representation, they cannot snatch your land,” he said and alleged that the “BJP wants to take your land for (industrialist Gautam) Adani and we will not allow this to happen”.

The two powerful bodies are jointly campaigning to press for their four-point demands, including full statehood, safeguards under sixth schedule of the Constitution, creation of two separate parliamentary constituencies for Leh and Kargil districts, recruitment and job reservation for the youth of Ladakh.

Both the Apex body and KDA, which is a separate amalgam of socio-religious, political and youth organisations of Leh and Kargil districts, were formed after the Centre abrogated the special status of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated it into Union territories of J-K and Ladakh.

The BJP Ladakh unit was also part of the Apex body but later distanced itself after it raised the demand for full statehood.

In an apparent reference to Modi’s ‘Mann Ki Baat’ radio broadcast, Gandhi said, “Some are speaking what is in their heart but I came here to know what is in your heart. One thing is clear that the ideology of Gandhi and Congress exists in the blood and DNA of the people of Ladakh.”

He said migrant labourers from different parts of the country, including Bihar, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand, told him that they feel that Ladakh is their second home as locals are lending a helping hand whenever they come forward to seek their support.

Referring to his Bharat Jodo Yatra from September 7, 2022 to January 30, 2023, he said the only goal of the foot march was to stand up against the “hatred and violence being spread by BJP and RSS” in the country and spread the message of love and brotherhood.

“The yatra was not supposed to end in Srinagar but in Ladakh. The administration did not allow us to continue the march due to harsh winter and we accepted it. My visit is in continuation of the Bharat Jodo Yatra. I visited every nook and corner of the region on the motorcycle and heard the people,” he said.

He also thanked the people of Kargil for always standing with the country during crisis and war, and said, “All the people in the country, irrespective of their religion, language and culture are equal for us and we all want to live together with love and respect.”

Gandhi described Ladakh as the most beautiful region of the country and assured the people that he will raise both their local and central issues during the next Parliament session.

After his over 15-minute long address, Gandhi walked past the security cover to interact with the gathering amid chants of ‘Jodo Jodo Bharat Jodo’.

Besides the working president of Ladakh Congress Asgar Ali Karbalai, National Conference leader and co-chairman of KDA Qamar Ali Akhnoon, AICC in-charge of J-K and Ladakh Rajni Patel were present at the public rally.

[todayworldnews2k21]

Maharashtra Election 2024: Uddhav Thackerays Shiv Sena-UBT At Crossroads As NCP, Congress Stay Non-Committal On CM Post | Analysis

Maharashtra Election 2024: With the Maharashtra elections date out, the ruling Mahayuti and opposition Maha Vikash Aghadi alliances are in talks to finalize their seat-sharing plan. The Mahayuti includes BJP, Shiv Sena-Shinde and NCP-Ajit Pawar. On the other hand, the Maha Vikash Aghadi comprises Shiv Sena-UBT, NCP-Sharad Chandra Pawar, and Congress. Notably, it’s the first assembly election…

[news365times]

[ad_1] 3 min read Last Updated : Oct 14 2024 | 1:37 PM IST Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) in Manipur, belonging to the Meitei, Kuki, and Naga communities are set to hold a joint meeting in New Delhi on Tuesday, according to agency reports. This will be the first such meeting since ethnic violence erupted in Manipur in May 2023. The violence in the northeastern state has left more than 200 people dead and thousands displaced. The meeting will be held under the supervision of the Ministry of Home Affairs, and aims to find a peaceful resolution to the crisis. Three Naga MLAs, Awangbou Newmai, L Dikho, and Ram Muivah, all members of the Naga People’s Front (NPF), a key ally of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Manipur, have confirmed their attendance at the talks. While Ram Muivah is already in New Delhi on personal business, reports said. The exact number of Meitei and Kuki legislators expected to participate is yet to be finalised, though a few Meitei MLAs from the BJP have reportedly already left for the national capital. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp  Govt efforts to facilitate dialogue The talks are part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA)-led central government's efforts to facilitate a dialogue between the warring communities and seek a peaceful solution to the crisis in the state. The ongoing violence has sharply divided the state along ethnic lines, primarily between the hill-dwelling Kuki and the valley-majority Meitei communities. The ethnic tensions were triggered on 3 May 2023 when the All Tribal Students Union (ATSU) organised a rally against the demand for the inclusion of the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category. The violence has claimed over 200 lives and displaced approximately 50,000 people. Over the past few months, security forces in the state have conducted several operations to recover illegal arms and ammunition. Congress wins Manipur Lok Sabha polls Manipur held elections for its two Lok Sabha constituencies earlier this year, with both seats being won by the Congress. In Inner Manipur, Congress candidate Angomcha Bimol Akoijam secured victory over BJP candidate Thounaojam Basant Kumar Singh, by a margin of over 109,000 votes. In Outer Manipur, Congress’ Alfred Kanngam S Arthur won by more than 85,000 votes against Naga People’s Front candidate Kachui Timothy Zimik. The Congress’ success in both seats signals a shift in the political landscape of Manipur, which has been a BJP stronghold in recent years. It also further emphasises the need for political intervention to resolve the ongoing crisis.   The upcoming meeting between Meitei, Kuki, and Naga legislators marks an important development in the ongoing peace efforts. The Home Ministry’s involvement in supervising the talks is a positive signal, however, reconciliation remains a challenge as deep-rooted ethnic divisions are still prevalent.   First Published: Oct 14 2024 | 1:37 PM IST [ad_2] Source link

[ebelal56-blog]

The Battle for India's Foreign Policy: Congress vs. BJP

Let's take a moment to dive into the fascinating evolution of India's foreign policy over the decades, particularly under the two major political players: the Congress Party and the Bharatiya Janata Party, or BJP. Now, this isn't just a dry history lesson; it's a journey through the shifting sands of international relations that have shaped India's role on the global stage. So, grab a cup of chai, and let's explore how these two parties have navigated the complex waters of foreign policy. First up, let's talk about strategic alignments and partnerships. Under the Congress Party, especially during the era of leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi, India embraced a non-aligned approach. Imagine the Cold War, where the world was divided into two camps: the US and the Soviet Union. Congress aimed to keep India at an arm's length from both, focusing instead on building relationships with nations in the Global South-think Africa and Asia. This was a time when diplomacy was about dialogue, about finding common ground without getting too cozy with any major power. Fast forward to the BJP era, particularly under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and we see a stark shift. The BJP has taken a more assertive stance, leaning heavily into partnerships with countries like the US and Japan. It's as if India decided to step onto the global stage with a confident strut, aligning itself more closely with Western powers, especially in countering China's growing influence in the Indo-Pacific. This shift is not just about alliances; it's about asserting India's place in a rapidly changing world.

[townpostin]

Champai Soren's “New Chapter with BJP” Likely Soon

Former Jharkhand CM in capital for talks; decision expected within days Champai Soren’s Delhi visit sparks rumors of potential BJP alliance, with a decision anticipated soon. RANCHI – Former Jharkhand CM Champai Soren’s Delhi trip ignites speculation about joining BJP, decision expected in coming days. Champai Soren, former Chief Minister of Jharkhand, has once again found himself at the center…

[blockinsider]

Crypto TDS Expected to Remain at 1% in India’s 2024 Budget Despite Industry Appeals

Key Points

India’s upcoming budget is expected to continue the 1% tax-deducted-at-source (TDS) on cryptocurrency transactions.

The Bharat Web3 Association (BWA) is pushing for tax reforms and clearer regulatory guidelines for the crypto market.

India’s cryptocurrency market is likely to continue facing a controversial tax policy despite increasing Bitcoin prices and calls for reform. The Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, is anticipated to uphold the 1% TDS on crypto transactions in the forthcoming budget, to be announced on Tuesday. This policy has been a challenge for the industry since its introduction two years ago.

BWA’s Fight for Crypto Reforms

The upcoming budget is significant as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has secured a third term through a coalition government. The necessity to satisfy alliance partners demanding over $15 billion likely surpasses the crypto industry’s requests.

The Bharat Web3 Association (BWA), the industry’s leading voice, has been critical of the 1% TDS policy. The BWA has persistently asked the government to reduce the tax to 0.01%, arguing that the current rate disadvantages India.

The association highlights that the high tax is causing capital flight, with investors moving their transactions to overseas exchanges and Decentralized Exchanges (DEXs), leading to potential revenue loss for the government.

While a reduction in TDS seems unlikely in the near future, the BWA remains hopeful for progress in other areas. The association is advocating for a tiered tax structure to replace the current flat 30% tax on crypto gains with a progressive system. They also push for allowing investors to offset losses against gains, a standard practice in other asset classes.

The absence of comprehensive crypto regulation is another issue for the industry. Senior Finance Ministry officials have hinted at upcoming legislation, but the details are not yet known. The BWA sees clear regulatory guidelines as crucial for fostering a healthy crypto ecosystem in India.

Government’s Shift Towards Crypto Regulation

A positive development is the BWA’s invitation to pre-budget consultations with the ministry, a change from previous years. However, the recent $230 million hack of WazirX, a prominent Indian crypto exchange, might have pushed crypto further down the government’s priority list.

Rajat Mittal, a Supreme Court crypto tax counsel, suggests that the government seems more focused on stringent regulation at this point. While the high TDS might be driving investors away, a rate reduction seems unlikely in the near future.

The upcoming budget announcement might not deliver the significant win the crypto industry is hoping for, but the BWA’s inclusion in pre-budget talks indicates a potential shift towards greater dialogue.

[study-buddies]

Amid Talk of UP BJP Rift, Yogi Adityanath Takes Charge of Assembly Bypoll Preparations

Chief Minister’s Direct Involvement In the wake of a disappointing performance in the Lok Sabha elections, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken the reins for the upcoming Assembly bypolls. With ten bypolls on the horizon due to MLAs being elected to Parliament, Adityanath is ensuring his administration is proactive in addressing constituents’ concerns and organizing effective campaigns.

Strategy and Assignments Despite no official election dates being announced, Adityanath held a meeting at his residence in Lucknow on Wednesday. Notably absent were Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, as well as senior BJP organizational leaders. Sources within the BJP explained that until dates are set, the focus remains on governance and resolving local issues, which is why only government ministers attended the meeting.

Ministers were assigned to specific constituencies to address grievances, improve booth management, and prepare for the elections. This groundwork aims to counter negative publicity through active intervention.

Internal Tensions and Statements The meeting coincided with Maurya reiterating his stance that the party organization is more significant than the government, a comment perceived as a critique of Adityanath’s management style. These remarks highlight ongoing internal tensions within the UP BJP.

Key Focus Areas The BJP is particularly focused on the Milkipur constituency, part of the Faizabad district, which they lost to the Samajwadi Party (SP) in the Lok Sabha polls. Winning this seat back is seen as crucial to recovering from the setback in Faizabad, a district that includes the significant city of Ayodhya. Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi and Minister of State for Health Mayankeshwar Sharan Singh have been tasked with securing this constituency.

Coalition Dynamics Adityanath is also coordinating with the BJP’s alliance partners, the NISHAD Party and Apna Dal (Soneylal). NISHAD Party leader Sanjay Nishad has recently voiced concerns about government actions affecting the poor, aligning with Maurya’s statements about the party’s importance. Apna Dal (S) leader Anupriya Patel’s husband, Ashish Singh Patel, participated in the meeting, underscoring the coalition’s collaborative approach. Anupriya Patel recently raised concerns about the treatment of reserved seats in government recruitment, reflecting broader worries about shifting voter bases among Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).

The Seats in Play The ten Assembly seats facing bypolls are currently divided among various parties: five held by the SP, three by the BJP, and one each by the NISHAD Party and Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD). The upcoming bypolls are crucial for the BJP to strengthen its position and address internal dissent.

Conclusion As Yogi Adityanath takes a hands-on approach to the Assembly bypoll preparations, the focus is on resolving local issues, strengthening the party’s grassroots presence, and ensuring a robust strategy to regain lost ground. The collaboration between the BJP and its allies will be pivotal in navigating the political landscape and addressing voter concerns in Uttar Pradesh.

[iasguidance]

Special Category Status (SCS)

Context: The talks over special category status for the states of Bihar and Andhra Pradesh have once again gained momentum after the victory of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. About Special Category Status (SCS):  It is a classification granted by the Centre to assist the development of States that face geographical or socioeconomic…

[creative9blogs]

Election 2024: Punjab's Power Play Unveiled on PunjabKesari.com

As the 2024 elections approach, the political landscape in Punjab is experiencing dramatic shifts and transformations, drawing attention from across India. This detailed analysis on PunjabKesari.com explores the unfolding power play in Punjab's politics, examining the key players, emerging alliances, and significant issues that could influence voter sentiment and the overall outcome of the elections.

Understanding Punjab's Political Dynamics

Punjab, a state known for its rich cultural heritage and agricultural dominance, has always been a significant battleground in Indian politics. The state's political arena is marked by a vibrant democracy and active participation from various parties, including the Indian National Congress (INC), the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Key Political Parties and Their Strategies

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP): Currently in power, AAP has focused on governance reforms, particularly in education and healthcare. The party aims to consolidate its position by highlighting its achievements and promising further development.

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD): Allied with the BJP in the past, SAD is looking to regain its stronghold among the rural and Sikh communities by focusing on regional issues like farmers' rights and religious autonomy.

Indian National Congress (INC): With a historical presence in Punjab, the INC is rebuilding its strategy around experienced leadership and a promise of stability, aiming to recapture its traditional voter base.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP): Seeking to expand its footprint in Punjab, the BJP is leveraging national-level policies and its development agenda, attempting to attract urban voters and younger demographics.

Emerging Issues and Voter Concerns

Several issues are shaping the political narrative in Punjab as the elections near:

Agricultural Reforms: Following the controversial farm bills, the focus on agricultural policies remains high, with parties advocating for the rights and welfare of farmers.

Economic Growth: Amidst global economic challenges, strategies for boosting Punjab's economy are crucial, with special emphasis on industrial development and job creation.

Drug Abuse and Crime: Long-standing issues of drug abuse and related crime are critical talking points, with promises of stringent actions and rehabilitation programs.

Water Disputes: With neighboring states, water rights continue to be a sensitive issue, influencing the political and social landscape in Punjab.

Importance of Youth Voters

Youth voters in Punjab represent a dynamic and critical demographic. Their concerns about employment, education quality, and social issues are driving parties to tailor specific policies and promises to appeal to this group.

Predictive Analysis: Who Will Dominate Punjab?

While it is challenging to predict the exact outcome of the elections, current trends suggest a highly competitive race. AAP might continue to leverage its governance model, while SAD and INC could focus on regional pride and traditional values to sway voters. The BJP’s strategies will likely hinge on broader nationalistic themes and economic promises.

Conclusion: The Stakes Are High

The 2024 Punjab elections are not just about which party wins but also about setting the direction for the state’s future. With high stakes involved, every party is putting its best foot forward, making Punjab's power play a critical watch for anyone interested in the dynamics of Indian politics.

Why PunjabKesari.com is Your Go-To Source for Election News

For comprehensive coverage, in-depth analysis, and up-to-date news on Punjab’s elections, PunjabKesari.com remains your most reliable source. Our dedicated team ensures that you stay well-informed about every development, helping you understand the intricate power plays that define Punjab’s political landscape.

Stay tuned to PunjabKesari.com for more updates and detailed analyses of what promises to be one of the most exciting and decisive electoral battles in the history of Punjab.

[morningmantra]

TDP Chief Chandrababu and Janasena President Pawan Kalyan Off to Delhi

TDP chief Chandrababu and Janasena president Pawan Kalyan are headed to Delhi to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The meeting is expected to finalize talks on the alliance, following earlier discussions with BJP.

TDP chief Chandrababu and Janasena president Pawan Kalyan are going to Delhi on Thursday to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah. TDP chief Chandrababu and Jana Sena president Pawan Kalyan are going to Delhi on Thursday to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah. TDEPA sources believe that the talks on the alliance are likely to come to an end in that meeting. Chandrababu met Amit Shah a few days ago…

[internationalnewz]

Political Chess Unfolds in Tamil Nadu as DMK-Congress, AIADMK, and BJP Engage in Lok Sabha Seat-Share Negotiations

In the lead-up to the April/May elections, Tamil Nadu witnesses a strategic game of political alliances as the state’s two prominent parties, the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the opposition All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), initiate seat-sharing talks. The complex negotiations involve current and potential allies, setting the stage for a dynamic electoral landscape.

Tamil Nadu, boasting 39 Lok Sabha seats, has been a battleground for these political giants. In the 2019 elections, the DMK and smaller Tamil parties, aligned with the Congress, clinched 38 seats, with the remaining seat secured by the AIADMK in alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and other regional outfits. As the election season approaches, both sides intensify discussions to forge new alliances.

DMK leader MK Stalin is scheduled to meet with the party’s seat-sharing committee, headed by Sriperumbudur MP TR Baalu. Simultaneously, the AIADMK reaches out to K Krishnasamy’s Puthiya Tamizhagam, a potential ally in the upcoming polls.

The BJP, which severed ties with the AIADMK in September last year, seeks to strengthen its position in the state. The party courts the Puthiya Tamizhagam, among others, after forming an alliance with the Tamil Maanila Congress led by GK Vasan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s party is actively engaging with regional players, including S Ramadoss’ Pattali Makkal Katchi.

The DMK, a key member of the INDIA bloc led by the Congress, has not finalized an alliance for the upcoming election. The Congress, which contested nine seats in the previous election and won eight, is yet to formalize its collaboration with the DMK or other alliance members like the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi.

The Secular Progressive Alliance, as part of the state-level grouping, includes the Communist Party of India (CPI) and CPIM, each allocated two seats by the DMK. The alliance also features the Indian Union Muslim League and the Kongu Desa Makkal Katchi, both securing one seat each in the previous election.

Amidst these negotiations, the AIADMK, having distanced itself from the BJP, explores potential alliances with regional players like the Puthiya Tamizhagam. The BJP’s attempts to reconnect with the AIADMK face resistance, and the AIADMK challenges the BJP by daring them to field Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the state.

As the political landscape in Tamil Nadu evolves, the upcoming Lok Sabha elections promise a compelling narrative of shifting alliances, strategic maneuvers, and intense electoral dynamics.

[currentmediasstuff]

"Dil Jeet Liya": RLD Leader As PM Announces Bharat Ratna For Charan Singh

Former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh has been awarded a posthumous Bharat Ratna — India’s highest civilian award — the government said Friday afternoon. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the award on X (formerly Twitter) hailing Mr Singh for his “incomparable contributions”.

“He dedicated his life to the welfare of farmers… whether as Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh or Home Minister of the country, and even as MLA, he always gave impetus to nation-building. He stood against the Emergency (and) his dedication to our farmer brothers and sisters is inspiring…” Mr Modi said.

The Bharat Ratna for Chaudhary Charan Singh comes amid reports of a seat-sharing deal between the BJP and the Rashtriya Lok Dal — founded by his son and now led by his grandson, Jayant Chaudhary.

Sources told NDTV the BJP will give the RLD — which has substantial support among Jats and farmers in western Uttar Pradesh, which sends 80 MPs to Parliament’s Lower House, the most of any state — two Lok Sabha seats and one Rajya Sabha seat in return for its support. NDTV was also told the RLD had made awarding a Bharat Ratna for Chaudhary Charan Singh a key condition for any agreement.

Jayant Chaudhary’s party is likely to get the Baghpat and Bijnor seats, and his wife may be made a Rajya Sabha candidate, sources have said. There was also talk of ministerial berths for the RLD.

Sources said the BJP had offered two berths in UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s cabinet, but the RLD also wanted a seat in Prime Minister Modi’s cabinet at the centre.

The RLD only last month confirmed an alliance with Akhilesh Yadav’s Samajwadi Party, under which it was to contest seven Lok Sabha seats. Faced with possibly losing the RLD’s backing, Akhilesh Yadav yesterday told reporters Mr Chaudhary is a “very well-educated person… (who) understands politics”.

The former UP Chief Minister also said he hoped he would not weaken the struggle against the BJP “for the welfare of farmers and prosperity of the state”. His party was more explicit; General Secretary Shivpal Yadav said “Jayant will not go anywhere”, and accused the BJP of “spreading confusion”.

This morning too Akhilesh Yadav downplayed buzz of the RLD leaving, saying, “There have been no talks. Whatever it is, (it) is being published in newspapers,..am getting information through you.”

Mr Yadav, meanwhile, welcomed the award for Charan Singh but also took a swipe at the BJP, remarking it is only right someone “who spent his life” helping poor farmers get the Bharat Ratna”.

“I want to congratulate all farmers. Chaudhary Charan Singhji fought for farmers all his life… We are happy a farmer leader got Bharat Ratna,” he said in the UP Assembly.

The jab comes as the BJP faces yet another wave of protesting farmers; on Thursday farmers from UP’s Noida and Greater Noida amassed on Delhi’s border to agitate for better land prices.

The sight of farmers penned behind police barricades, with riot control vehicles at the ready, were a replay of images from three years ago — when tens of thousands of farmers and their supporters marched on Delhi to protest the “black farm laws”, triggering a massive image crisis for the BJP.

Chaudhary Charan Singh’s Bharat Ratna is the fifth announced this year; the government has also recognised Congress leader and former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao, former Bihar Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur, and the BJP’s LK Advani, as well as world-renowned agronomist MS Swaminathan.

The awards come weeks before a general election and a number of Assembly polls, including one in Andhra Pradesh, which is Mr Rao’s home state and one in which Mr Modi’s BJP is scrambling for grip.

Equally significant, Karpoori Thakur’s award came shortly before Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar — his protege — executed (yet another) flip-flop, dumping the INDIA bloc and realigning with the BJP.

Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) has declared its “appreciation” to the Prime Minister for “honouring the real India”; “We are proud of it…” JDU leader KC Tyagi told news agency ANI.

The Bharat Ratna for Mr Advani — who has labelled himself the “charioteer” who steered the controversial ‘rath yatra’ to Ayodhya in UP — came days after the consecration of the Ram Temple.

The sole non-political Bharat Ratna this year was to MS Swaminathan — the ‘father of India’s Green Revolution’ and who was hailed by the Prime Minister as “a true farmers’ scientist”.