<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1711535876257" alt="AAP faces setback as Jalandhar MP & MLA likely to defect to BJP ahead of Lok Sabha polls" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

In a significant turn of events impacting the political landscape of Punjab ahead of the Lok Sabha elections 2024, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) suffered a dual blow as its Jalandhar MP Sushil Kumar Rinku and Jalandhar West MLA Sheetal Angural are slated to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Delhi on Wednesday.
Sources familiar with the matter revealed that both Rinku and Angural have already arrived at the BJP office in Delhi, indicating the finalisation of their decision to switch parties.
The development has created a stir, especially concerning Rinku, who had earlier been announced as the AAP candidate from Jalandhar for the upcoming elections. Despite efforts by AAP leaders to engage in discussions with Rinku and persuade him to remain with the party, the talks failed to materialize.
Rinku's political journey saw him win the Lok Sabha seat from Jalandhar by a substantial margin of 58,691 votes during a by-poll in 2023, further highlighting the significance of his defection to the BJP.
This recent development for the AAP comes on the heels of another political shift, as on Tuesday, the BJP successfully lured Congress MP Ravneet Bittu from Ludhiana into its fold.
This move by the BJP occurred shortly after announcing its decision to contest the Lok Sabha elections independently without any alliance partners in Punjab. Notably, Ravneet Bittu is the grandson of former Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh, who tragically lost his life in a suicide bombing incident in Chandigarh in 1995.
The upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Punjab are scheduled to take place in a single phase on June 1, where voters will elect 13 Members of Parliament. This phase constitutes the seventh and final leg of elections across the country, with the results slated to be announced during the nationwide counting process on June 4.

AAP faces setback as Jalandhar MP & MLA likely to defect to BJP ahead of Lok Sabha polls

<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1710775917413" alt="NDA announces seat sharing for Bihar's 40 Lok Sabha seats; BJP gets 17, JDU bags 16" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its coalition partners unveiled their seat-sharing agreement for Bihar's 40 Lok Sabha seats on Monday, ahead of the state's seven-phase elections starting April 19.
In this arrangement, the BJP will contest 17 seats, maintaining the same number as in 2019, while the Janata Dal (United) (JDU) has secured 16 seats, one less than its previous tally. Additionally, five seats have been allocated to the Lok Jan Shakti Party, and one each going to Upendra Kushwaha’s Rashtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP) and Jitan Ram Majhi’s Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM).
The announcement of the seat-sharing deal was made by BJP national general secretary Vinod Tawde, who also oversees Bihar's affairs within the party. He highlighted that the NDA allies swiftly resolved the arrangement within 48 hours, indicating a lack of contention over seat allocation.
Following the JDU's shift from the INDIA alliance to the NDA in January, there were expectations of the BJP seeking a larger share of seats compared to 2019. Notably, in the previous election, the BJP won all 17 seats it contested, while the JDU lost one seat, ending with 16 MPs in the Lok Sabha.
During the seat-sharing announcement, BJP leaders were joined by JDU’s Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Jha, underscoring the unity within the NDA coalition despite contesting on individual party symbols.
Tawde addressed the media and said, “although the parties in the NDA will fight on their respective symbols, we are fighting together...and all the parties will fight with all their might.”&nbsp;
The BJP aims to leverage the RLSP and HAM's support to bolster its seat count and vote share in Bihar. A source familiar with the details noted that the NDA coalition must secure all 40 seats to reach the goal of surpassing 400 out of the 543 Lok Sabha seats, including those contested by its allies.
Under the seat-sharing arrangement, the BJP will field candidates in West Champaran, East Champaran, Aurangabad, Madhubani, Araria, Darbhanga, Muzzafarpur, Maharajganj, Saran, Ujiarpur, Begusarai, Nawada, Patna Sahib, Patiliputra, Ara, Buxara, and Sasaram.
On the other hand, the JDU will contest from Valmikinagar, Sitamarhi, Jhanjharpur, Supaul, Kishanganj, Katiyar, Purnia, Madhepura, Gopalganj, Siwan, Bhagalpur, Banka, Munger, Nalanda, Jehanabad, and Sheohar.
Meanwhile, the Lok Jan Shakti Party (LJP) has retained its strongholds in Hajipur, Vaishali, Samastipur, Khagaria, and Jamui. Chirag Paswan, the LJP leader, is likely to contest from Hajipur, a seat sought after by his uncle and Union Minister Pashupati Paras. Additionally, the HAM will contest the Gaya seat, while the Rashtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP) has secured the Karakat seat.
A party insider, speaking on condition of anonymity, talked about BJP's determination to maintain its winning streak from 2019, aiming to secure all contested seats with intensified efforts. Except for Patliputra, where Ram Gopal Yadav switched to the BJP and won against RJD's Misa Bharti, the BJP had significant leads over its rivals in other constituencies.

NDA announces seat sharing for Bihar's 40 Lok Sabha seats; BJP gets 17, JDU bags 16

<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1709735341477" alt="Will BJP & BJD from an alliance in Odisha for upcoming Lok Sabha polls?" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

Speculations about a potential alliance between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in Odisha surfaced following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to the state.
The visit, part of his three-day itinerary covering Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, West Bengal, and Bihar from March 4 to 6, sparked discussions regarding political manoeuvres ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections.
Reports indicate that BJP leaders convened in Delhi for discussions while BJD counterparts held meetings with senior officials at Navin Niwas in Bhubaneshwar, signalling a possible collaboration.
Additionally, Odisha BJP leaders travelled to Delhi for an engagement with the party's top brass, as per reports from Odisha TV and News 18, further fuelling speculation about an impending alliance.
Earlier in the day, against the backdrop of these deliberations, several members from BJD and Congress defected to the BJP in a ceremony attended by Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
During his visit, PM Modi inaugurated development projects totalling over ₹19,600 crore in Odisha's Jajpur district, accompanied by Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Union ministers Dharmendra Pradhan and Bishweswar Tudu.
While addressing the gathering, PM Modi criticised the Congress and the INDIA bloc, but refrained from making any comments about the Naveen Patnaik-led Odisha government.
PM Modi also paid homage to Biju Patnaik on his Jayanti, acknowledging the late leader's significant contributions to both the nation and Odisha. In response, Naveen Patnaik commended PM Modi's endeavours to bolster India's economic prowess, stating that the prime minister has charted a transformative path for the nation, propelling it towards becoming a global economic force.
CM Patnaik said, "the prime minister has set a new direction for India. He is taking India on an accelerated drive to make it an economic powerhouse. India is now the fifth largest economy and is marching forward to become the number 3 in a few years."
"It is a matter of happiness that the PM has launched several projects for Odisha including Chandikhol-Paradeep national highway, expansion of several other NHs, a desalination plant, an LPG terminal at Paradip, a gas pipeline project, and a new train line," he further added.
On the other hand, former Union minister Srikant Jena re-entered the Congress fold on Wednesday, emphasising that the INDIA bloc is poised to thwart the "unholy alliance" between the BJP and the BJD in Odisha.
He conveyed his conviction that the collaborative efforts of Prime Minister Modi and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, along with their respective parties, BJP and BJD, signify an overt alliance.
Jena's remarks, as reported by PTI, underscored his perception of the BJP and BJD forging an alliance both in the past and presently.

Will BJP & BJD form an alliance in Odisha for upcoming Lok Sabha polls?

<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1709638023983" alt="PM Modi accuses INC & BRS of covering up corruption, asserts commitment to transparent governance" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

Accusing the ruling Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) and Congress of a long-standing collusion to conceal corruption, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on both parties during a public rally in Sangareddy on Tuesday, labelling them as "two sides of the same coin."
In his address, PM Modi criticised the alleged nexus between the Congress and BRS, highlighting their mutual complicity in shielding each other's misdeeds. He emphasised that his government does not shy away from taking decisive action against corruption, likening it to conducting surgical strikes or airstrikes.
"Congress and BRS are two sides of the same coin. There is a nexus between both parties. They provide a cover for each other's scam. Congress has made Telangana its new ATM. Such behaviour will not go on for long... Modi govt does not hesitate before conducting surgical strikes or airstrikes," the Prime Minister said.&nbsp;
Furthermore, PM Modi accused members of 'Parivarvadi' parties of stashing black money in foreign bank accounts, contrasting this with his efforts to empower the poor through initiatives like the Jan Dhan Yojana and housing schemes. He underscored his commitment to serving all 140 crore Indians, contrasting it with the alleged self-serving actions of the 'Parivarvadis.'
"Members of 'Parivarvadi' parties open bank accounts outside India to hide their black money, while I help the poor to open Jan Dhan accounts and propel their growth. 'Parivarvadis' live in luxurious homes, while I make sure that the poor get to sleep in pucca houses. 'Parivarvadi' sold India's resources to uplift their children, while I strive to convert the dreams of your children into reality... 140 crore Indians are my family," he said.
PM Modi also addressed the issue of gifts received during his tenure, asserting that he has deposited them in Toshakhana for auction, with proceeds directed towards the service of Mother Ganga. He criticised the 'Parivarvadis' for allegedly converting black money into white through gifts, contrasting their actions with his own transparent approach.
"The monthly payment that I receive from the government, whenever I get a chance, I donate some of it to people. 'Parivarvadis' have taken expensive gifts while being in the government and have converted their black money into white through gifts, but till date, I have deposited all the gifts in Toshakhana and it is auctioned and whatever money comes, it is invested in the service of Mother Ganga," he asserted.
Reiterating his vision for a prosperous India, PM Modi invoked the slogan of '400 paar' (beyond 400 seats), highlighting the nation's trust in his leadership. He urged support to realise the goal of a developed India and criticised the BRS and Congress for lacking a vision for Telangana's development, while affirming BJP's dedication to serving the people of the state diligently.
PM Modi's visit to Telangana is part of a larger itinerary, including visits to Tamil Nadu, Odisha, West Bengal, and Bihar from March 4 to 6.

PM Modi accuses INC & BRS of covering up corruption, asserts commitment to transparent governance

<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1709128428871" alt="BJP reports highest income, AAP’s income surges more than 90 percent: ADR's Fiscal Report" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) revealed on Wednesday that the six national parties collectively reported an income of nearly Rs 3077 crore for the fiscal year 2022-23, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leading the pack with approximately Rs 2361 crore.
This amount constitutes a significant portion, accounting for 76.73% of the total income among the six parties.
Following the BJP, the Indian National Congress declared the second-highest income at Rs 452.375 crore, making up 14.70% of the total income of the six national parties.
Apart from BJP and Congress, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), National People's Party (NPP), and Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI-M] also disclosed their respective incomes.
Comparing the financial data between the fiscal years 2021-22 and 2022-23, ADR noted significant fluctuations in the incomes of various parties. The BJP witnessed a notable increase of 23.15% (Rs 443.724 crore) from Rs 1917.12 crore to Rs 2360.844 crore.
Similarly, the NPP saw a substantial rise of 1502.12% (Rs 7.09 crore), while AAP experienced a growth of 91.23% (Rs 40.631 crore).
In contrast, the incomes of the Congress, CPI(M), and BSP decreased by 16.42% (Rs 88.90 crore), 12.68% (Rs 20.575 crore), and 33.14% (Rs 14.508 crore) respectively during the same period.
Additionally, ADR highlighted the expenditure patterns of these parties. While the BJP spent only 57.68% (Rs 1361.684 crore) of its total income, the Congress surpassed its income, spending 103.26% (Rs 467.135 crore) of its declared income.
Similarly, the CPI(M) and AAP also recorded expenditures exceeding their incomes by 74.87% and 119.82% respectively.

BJP reports highest income, AAP’s income surges more than 90 percent: ADR's Fiscal Report

<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1708677243978" alt="BJP engages in ‘Gram Parikrama Yatra’ to connect with farmers across 1.25 lakh villages" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has embarked on a significant dialogue initiative, the ’Gram Parikrama Yatra’, engaging farmers from 1.25 lakh villages nationwide. Initiated on February 12, the program is slated to continue until March 12, spanning a month-long outreach effort.
In anticipation of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the BJP has meticulously prepared to engage with farmers, organising a series of programs to foster communication and gather feedback from rural communities.
Rajkumar Chahar, the National President of BJP's Kisan Morcha, highlighted the party's objective in conducting the ‘Gaon Parikrama Yatra’ and ‘Kisan Chaupal’, highlighting the importance of soliciting farmers' suggestions and understanding their expectations from Prime Minister Modi. These inputs, he stated, would contribute to shaping the party's manifesto, potentially incorporating them as assurances in Modi's agenda for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
"Our objective is to take suggestions from the farmers and to know what they want from Modi ji so that the ‘Sankalp patra’ will be prepared. These things can be added in preparation for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections," he said.
Across the country, these programs have been broadcast on 900 screens, enabling live telecasts of Village Parikrama Yatras and Kisan Chaupals, facilitating direct interaction with labourers and farmers.
Communication channels with farmers have been diversified, involving the distribution of leaflets detailing the Modi government's initiatives for farmers' welfare and conducting village circuits under the Gram Parikrama Yatra. The Kisan Chaupal sessions aim to establish rapport with farmers and labourers, while also honouring progressive farmers and families of ex-servicemen or martyrs.
The inaugural Gram Parikrama Yatra commenced on February 12 from Sukh Teerth in Muzaffarnagar, Western Uttar Pradesh, witnessing participation from approximately 20,000 farmers. The event featured addresses by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, BJP Kisan Morcha National President Rajkumar Chahar, and other prominent leaders, along with dialogues with villagers.
Rajkumar Chahar underscored the Modi government's achievements in the agricultural sector, citing initiatives like the Kisan Fasal Yojana, Kisan Samman Nidhi, crop insurance, Kisan Rail, Deep Irrigation, Nano Urea, and subsidised electricity, among others. He emphasised the government's commitment to doubling farmers' income and increasing MSP by 1.5 to 2 times, resonating positively with farmers across villages.
Addressing the prevalent issue of MSP, Chahar acknowledged the significance of discussions, particularly in states like Punjab, where MSP procurement is substantial. He affirmed the government's willingness to engage in dialogue and resolve farmers' concerns through meaningful consultations.
"MSP seems to be the main issue at the moment. There is a lot of purchasing on MSP on some crops in Punjab. MSP has continuously increased in production. Exports are also big and the government itself is continuously sitting in Chandigarh for talks. The solution will be found through talks," he stated.
Reflecting on historical precedents, Chahar referenced the "Lebi Movement" during Indira Gandhi's tenure, highlighting the enduring importance of fair MSP rates and constructive dialogue to address farmers' grievances effectively.

BJP engages in ‘Gram Parikrama Yatra’ to connect with farmers across 1.25 lakh villages

<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1707819242883" alt="Former INC leader & Maharashtra CM Ashok Chavan joins BJP, pledges to foster state's development" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan made headlines on Tuesday with his decision to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), citing a commitment to fostering the "constructive development of Maharashtra."
Describing this move as a pivotal juncture in his political journey, Chavan expressed optimism about collaborating with the BJP for the betterment of Maharashtra. He announced his formal induction into the BJP at their office, where he was expected to join in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, party leader Ashish Shelar, and Maharashtra BJP president Chandrashekhar Bawankule.
When questioned about the possibility of other MLAs and Congress legislators following suit, Chavan refrained from commenting, stating his lack of awareness regarding others' decisions.
Sources indicate that Ashok Chavan is likely to secure a Rajya Sabha seat from Maharashtra, a move that could pose a challenge for the Congress party.
Chavan's departure from the Congress was formalised on Monday when he tendered his resignation from the party's primary membership. This resignation was submitted to Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee President Nana Patole.
"I have resigned from the Assembly membership as an MLA. I have given my resignation to the Speaker. I have resigned from the Congress Working Committee and the Congress primary membership," Chavan told reporters after resigning from Congress on Monday.
Addressing reporters after his resignation from the Congress, Chavan detailed his extensive political background, highlighting his tenure as Vice President and General Secretary of the Maharashtra Pradesh Youth Congress Committee from 1986 to 1995.
He also served three terms in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, beginning in 1999 and concluding in May 2014. His stint as Chief Minister of Maharashtra, from December 8, 2008, to November 9, 2010, was marked by controversy, as he faced pressure to step down amidst corruption allegations related to the Adarsh Housing Society scam.
In subsequent elections, Chavan faced both victories and defeats, winning the Nanded constituency in the 2014 general elections, but losing it in 2019 to Pratap Patil Chikhalikar of the BJP.
Chavan's defection marks the latest blow to the Congress in Maharashtra, following the exits of former South Mumbai MP Milind Deora and former MLA Baba Siddique.
Reports suggest that Chavan's decision stems from significant disagreements with state party chief Nana Patole, underscoring the internal rifts within the Congress party.

Former INC leader & Maharashtra CM Ashok Chavan joins BJP, pledges to foster state's development

<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1706882027890" alt="Uttarakhand takes historic step towards Uniform Civil Code implementation – What does it entail?" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

The much-anticipated Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand has reached a significant milestone as the expert committee entrusted with its creation submitted its findings to Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday.
This marks a crucial development setting the stage for an unprecedented legislative session. The state's assembly is poised for a special four-day session starting February 5, dedicated to deliberating on the UCC bill, with the draft undergoing cabinet discussions before its formal introduction.
Led by retired Supreme Court Judge Ranjana Prakash Desai, the five-member committee compiled an extensive 800-page report, offering recommendations that carry substantial implications. Notably, the panel advocates for the exclusion of Scheduled Tribes from the UCC Bill's purview.
Additionally, the report suggests a ban on polygamy, addressing issues related to marriage, divorce, land, property, and inheritance laws applicable to all citizens, irrespective of their religious affiliations within the state.
Among the panel's key recommendations, practices such as halala, iddat, and triple talaq, governed by Muslim personal law, will be considered punishable offenses. Furthermore, the report proposes mandatory registration of live-in relationships, reflecting contemporary societal dynamics.
It recommends exempting tribals, constituting 2.9% of the state’s population, from the ambit of the UCC, respecting their concerns over special status.
The report also engages with the legal age of marriage for women, offering two suggestions: retaining the legal age at 18 or increasing it to 21. The government will decide which recommendation to incorporate into the final Bill. Importantly, both husband and wife will have equal grounds for divorce, aligning the legal framework with principles of equality.
Contrary to expectations, the draft report does not touch upon population control measures, a topic of recent national discourse. However, it does propose equal inheritance rights for women, highlighting gender parity in matters of succession.
The adoption and application of the UCC were pivotal promises made by the BJP during the 2022 Assembly elections. Following a resounding victory, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed gratitude for public support towards this transformative initiative.
The government swiftly endorsed the formation of a special committee, led by retired Supreme Court Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai, to draft the UCC immediately after assuming office in March 2022.
Uttarakhand, upon UCC implementation, will become the first state post-independence to enforce this legal framework, emulating the example set by Goa during the Portuguese era. The UCC, aimed at standardising laws related to marriage, divorce, property, and inheritance, seeks to create a uniform legal framework for citizens, transcending religious boundaries.
The committee, comprising retired Justice Desai, retired Justice Pramod Kohli, social activist Manu Gaur, former Chief Secretary Shatrughan Singh, and Vice-Chancellor Surekha Dangwal, extensively engaged with the public, considering nearly sixty thousand individuals and analysing around 2.33 lakh written suggestions during its tenure.

Uttarakhand takes historic step towards Uniform Civil Code implementation – What does it entail?

<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1706715187777" alt="Political dynamics change as Kerala Janapaksham (Secular) mergers with BJP ahead of LS polls" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

In a significant political development ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Kerala Janapaksham (Secular) chief PC George, along with his son Shaun and party leaders, officially merged their party with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday.
At a press conference at the party headquarters, BJP national secretary Anil Antony declared, “Today, Kerala Janapaksham (Secular), led by PC George, is merging with the BJP, showing full confidence in our Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji’s vision to transform India into ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047.”
The merger ceremony in New Delhi witnessed the presence of Prakash Javadekar, the saffron party’s in-charge for political affairs in Kerala, along with other senior leaders, symbolising a significant union in the political landscape of Kerala.
Anil Antony expressed optimism on welcoming PC George, stating, "The merging of Janapaksham today will be the start of a historic trajectory in Kerala where the BJP will grow more and more, and contribute towards the prime minister’s mission to transform India into a developed country."
Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Electronics and Information Technology, and Jal Shakti of India, extended a warm welcome to PC George, acknowledging him as “one of the tallest leaders of Kerala” on X.
Chandrasekhar asserted, "There is growing awareness among the people of Kerala that the Left and INDI Alliance have let them down," emphasising the desire for a brighter future represented by the BJP.
In a statement to the media in Kottayam, PC George had previously indicated the inclination of his party workers towards joining the BJP.
He highlighted that the ‘general sentiments’ of my party workers are in favour of joining the BJP, and a decision in this regard will be made before the Lok Sabha polls.
When questioned about the potential merger, George clarified, "If such a decision is taken, it won’t be a merger, as ours is a very small party and it would be like a small stream joining a river."
PC George is a seasoned politician with over 30 years under his belt representing the Poonjar seat in the Kerala Assembly. He praised Narendra Modi's leadership, asserting that India has never had such an accomplished Prime Minister.
Responding to queries about contesting the Lok Sabha polls with the BJP, he stated, "If the BJP asks me to contest, I will; if not, I won’t."
The political trajectory of PC George reflects a complex history, with his association with both the ruling LDF and the Opposition UDF in the past.&nbsp;
However, in recent times, he has become an arch-enemy of both political coalitions, with his controversial remarks targeting Dalits, tribals, and Muslims on numerous occasions.
The dynamics surrounding George's shift to the BJP add a new chapter to Kerala's political landscape, setting the stage for intriguing developments in the upcoming elections.

Political dynamics change as Kerala Janapaksham (Secular) mergers with BJP ahead of LS polls

<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1702383366918" alt="BJP selects first time MLA Bhajan Lal Sharma as next Rajasthan Chief Minister" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

In a conclusive move, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) announced Bhajan Lal Sharma as the upcoming Chief Minister of Rajasthan.
Sharma, a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) representing Sanganer in Rajasthan, secured victory in the recent state Assembly election.
His political trajectory has seen him serve four times as the State General Secretary for the BJP.
The Sanganer constituency has consistently favoured the BJP since 2003, solidifying its stronghold.
However, Bhajan Lal Sharma had contested the elections from Nadbai against the BJP as an Independent candidate in 2003 and lost.
Bhajan Lal Sharma's affiliation with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) adds depth to his political background.
This decision aligns with the BJP's broader strategy of introducing new leadership in chief ministerial roles across various states, including Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.

BJP selects first time MLA Bhajan Lal Sharma as next Rajasthan Chief Minister

<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1702296123003" alt="Mohan Yadav named CM of Madhya Pradesh as BJP solidifies post-election leadership" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

Mohan Yadav has emerged as the new Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured a resounding victory over the Congress, reaffirming its dominance in the state.
The announcement, concluding over a week of speculation regarding the leadership of the new government, was made during the legislature party meeting in Bhopal. The gathering included the 163 newly elected BJP MLAs and the party's three central observers.
Mohan Yadav, the outgoing Higher Education Minister, successfully contested from the Ujjain Dakshin seat. Expressing gratitude, he stated, "I am a small worker of the party. I thank all of you, the state leadership, and the central leadership. With your love and support, I will try to fulfill my responsibilities."
Yadav, a three-time MLA from Ujjain, previously served as a cabinet minister in the Chouhan Government.
The appointment of 58-year-old Yadav is widely perceived as signalling a political transition, potentially marking the end of the road, in state politics at least, for his predecessor, Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
In an effort to manage aspirations and maintain harmony within the party ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the BJP has appointed two deputy chief ministers, Jagdish Deora and Rajesh Shukla.
Adding another layer to the post-election leadership, former Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar, one of the three ex-cabinet members who contested last month's election, has been designated as the Assembly Speaker.
Speculation had surrounded Tomar, particularly in the context of his leadership during the farmer protests against the farm laws, leading to conjecture about his potential ascent to the top post after Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

Mohan Yadav named CM of Madhya Pradesh as BJP solidifies post-election leadership

<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1702028534496" alt="Congress Chief Kharge accuses Modi Government of rising crimes against Dalits & Tribals" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>


In a scathing attack on the Modi government, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge expressed deep concern over the escalating crimes against Dalits and tribals in the country, alleging that it is a deliberate strategy employed by the BJP to sow divisions within society.
Kharge highlighted the recently released report by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), stating, “The latest report of National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) is not merely statistics, it is the BJP’s record of making the life of SC-ST community unsafe.”
This statement underscores his belief that the statistics reflect a disturbing trend of insecurity among the Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) community.
He went on to assert that the unjust treatment, atrocities, and repression against Dalits and tribals are integral to the BJP's conspiratorial agenda of societal division over the last decade.
Kharge said in a post in Hindi on X, “Injustice, atrocities and repression are part of the conspiratorial agenda of the BJP of dividing the society in the last decade.”
Sharing a post that cited a 46.11 percent increase in crimes against Dalits since 2013 and a 48.15 percent rise in crimes against tribals, Kharge emphasised the gravity of the situation. He argued that the persistent oppression faced by these communities exposes the alleged hypocrisy of the BJP-RSS.
As concerns over the safety and well-being of Dalits and tribals continue to mount, Kharge's critique underscores the broader debate on social justice and inclusivity in the political discourse.

Congress Chief accuses Modi Government of rising crimes against Dalits & Tribals

<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1702027868505" alt="BJP appoints Observers for CM selection in Rajasthan, MP, Chhattisgarh. Rajnath Singh. ML Khattar. Arjun Munda." style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

On Friday, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) designated Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, and Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda as central observers tasked with selecting the leader of its legislative party in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh, respectively.
The chosen legislative party leaders will subsequently assume the role of Chief Ministers in their respective states, with the selection meetings potentially scheduled for the upcoming weekend.
Singh will be accompanied by the party's Vice President Saroj Pandey and General Secretary Vinod Tawde as central observers for Rajasthan. There is heightened speculation within the BJP that the leadership might introduce a new leader, sidelining the assertions of two-time former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje.
Khattar will be joined by the party's OBC 'Morcha' head K Laxman and Secretary Asha Lakra for the Madhya Pradesh meeting. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and BJP's General Secretary Dushwant Kumar Gautam, along with Munda, will serve as central observers for Chhattisgarh.
In Madhya Pradesh, where the BJP secured its most significant victory among the three states with a two-thirds majority, the current Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's influence has increased with the win.
However, there is an opinion that the party leadership is considering a change in leadership after his uninterrupted 18-year tenure in power, except for a 15-month hiatus after the 2018 assembly polls.
Sources indicate that the BJP aims to appoint an OBC or tribal leader in Chhattisgarh. ST leaders such as Lata Usendi, Gomati Sai, and Renuka Singh are considered strong contenders for the leadership role. Additionally, state party president Arun Sao and bureaucrat-turned-politician O P Choudhary, both hailing from backward castes, are also seen as potential candidates for the top job.
It is safe to assume that BJP aims to appoint at least one woman Chief Minister, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's emphasis on the substantial support from women voters for the BJP and his frequent advocacy for women-led development.
Notably, two out of three observers for Chhattisgarh belong to tribal communities, while Gautam hails from the Scheduled Castes. The BJP secured resounding victories in the recent assembly elections in all three states, decisively overcoming challenges posed by the Congress.

BJP appoints Observers for CM selection in Rajasthan, MP, Chhattisgarh

<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1701863588070" alt="Law Minister Meghwal accuses I.N.D.I Alliance of divisive tactics, asserts unity" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

In a strong statement, Law Minister and BJP leader Arjun Ram Meghwal accused the I.N.D.I Alliance parties of attempting to sow division along north-south lines in the country, emphasising that such efforts by the opposition would ultimately fail.
The minister's remarks came in response to DMK MP D N V Senthil Kumar's statement on Tuesday, where the latter allegedly referred to the states won by the BJP as 'gau mutra' (cow urine) states. The BJP secured victories in the assembly polls in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh, while the Congress emerged triumphant in Telangana.
Meghwal highlighted that when an apology was sought from DMK floor leader T R Baalu in the Lok Sabha, it was refused. The Law Minister claimed that leaders from the Congress, NCP, and other I.N.D.I Alliance parties stood in support of Baalu in the House.
Addressing a press conference within the Parliament House complex, Meghwal questioned the intent behind such statements, asking if the alliance parties wanted to divide India. He pointed out a senior Congress leader's statement expressing a preference for South India and questioned if this sentiment was linked to the loss of Amethi in North India.
Asserting the unity of the country, Meghwal declared, "The country is one and will remain one. If they do not apologise, we feel Rahul Gandhi and Uddhav Thackeray, M K Stalin, Kerala chief minister, Karnataka chief minister are with them."
The controversy emerged when Kumar, on Tuesday, used a pejorative to describe Hindi heartland states while criticising the ruling BJP. The BJP, in response, is framing the incident as part of a larger alleged strategy by the opposition to create regional divides.
The backdrop of this statement is the ongoing political discourse in India, where regional dynamics often play a significant role. The accusations of divisive tactics and attempts to create a north-south divide highlight the charged political atmosphere and the BJP's efforts to counter narratives that may challenge national unity. The comments made by DMK MP Senthil Kumar have become a focal point in this larger political conversation.

Law Minister Meghwal accuses I.N.D.I Alliance of divisive tactics, asserts unity

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In a significant political development, Rajasthan Congress leaders Jyoti Mirdha and Sawai Singh Choudhary have joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the national capital, Delhi, as the state gears up for upcoming assembly elections later this year.
Jyoti Mirdha, a former Member of Parliament from Nagaur in Rajasthan, and Sawai Singh Choudhary officially crossed party lines to join the BJP, making the announcement in the presence of senior BJP leaders. This move is expected to have a notable impact on the state's political landscape.
BJP General Secretary and Rajasthan In-Charge, Arun Singh, welcomed the two leaders into the BJP, stating, "With the joining of Jyoti Mirdha and Sawai Singh Choudhary, the BJP family has been strengthened further."
He added, "Jyoti Mirdha is a very popular leader."
This political shift is being closely watched as it could influence the dynamics of the upcoming assembly elections in Rajasthan. Both Mirdha and Choudhary bring with them considerable political experience and influence within the state which could be crucial in shaping the electoral outcomes.
The move also highlights the ongoing political churn within Rajasthan and the competition between political parties to secure a strong position in the state assembly. With the Congress leaders switching to the BJP, the battle for Rajasthan's political supremacy is expected to intensify.
The BJP has been making efforts to consolidate its position in the state, while the Congress is striving to regain its footing after the 2018 assembly elections. The addition of these experienced leaders to the BJP's ranks may provide the party with added momentum as it prepares for the upcoming electoral contest.
As the state elections draw nearer, Rajasthan is poised to witness a fiercely contested battle for political dominance, with the BJP and Congress vying for the support of the electorate. The entry of Jyoti Mirdha and Sawai Singh Choudhary into the BJP's fold is expected to add an intriguing dimension to this electoral tussle.

Two Rajasthan Congress leaders defect to BJP ahead of state assembly elections

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In a stunning upset for Kerala's ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF), Chandy Oommen, a Congress candidate, has secured a resounding victory in the Puthuppally assembly bypoll. This seat, which had been held by his father and former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy for over half a century, has now been retained for the party-led United Democratic Front (UDF).
Chandy Oommen clinched a historic win by defeating his main rival, Jaick C Thomas of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)), by an impressive margin. The 37-year-old Oommen secured 80,144 votes, while Thomas received only 42,425 votes.
Despite hopes of a strong showing, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate, Lijin Lal, ended up in a distant third place, amassing a total of 6,558 votes.
Analysts had anticipated this outcome, with the sympathy generated by the passing of Chandy Oommen's father playing a significant role in his victory. The constituency, located in Kottayam district, is politically active and gained additional significance as the bypoll took place just months before the Lok Sabha elections.
Chandy Oommen maintained a substantial lead throughout the election, securing one of the state's largest victory margins. His opponent, CPI(M) nominee Jaick C Thomas, struggled to gain ground even in panchayats controlled by the LDF in the predominantly rural area.
The bypoll was necessitated by the passing of Oommen Chandy, who had represented the Puthuppally constituency continuously since 1971.
The Congress party celebrated the victory as a clear indication of "anti-incumbency" in the southern state, while the ruling CPI(M) attributed it to a "sympathy wave" following Oommen Chandy's demise. This marked the third consecutive defeat for Thomas in the Puthuppally constituency.
Chandy Oommen humbly credited his victory to his father, stating, "This is my Appa's (father's) victory. The people of Puthuppally have rejected all the allegations and campaigns unleashed against him."
He paid his respects to his father at the local church's tomb after securing his victory.
The Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) expressed its gratitude to the people of Puthuppally, characterizing the victory as a response to the "misrule" of the Left government in the state. KPCC Chief K. Sudhakaran stated that this win would strengthen the UDF and pose a setback for the Left Front, particularly Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
Despite the significant loss, CPI(M) state secretary M.V. Govindan maintained that the LDF's voter base in Puthuppally remained intact and attributed the UDF candidate's win to a sympathy wave. Govindan asserted that there was no anti-incumbency factor at play and that people had evaluated the government's performance.
Chandy Oommen's family members, including his mother Mariamma and sisters Achu and Maria, also expressed their joy at his impressive victory. Achu, who faced widespread cyberattacks during the election campaign, viewed the resounding win as a response to those who targeted Oommen Chandy and his family.
The BJP, while acknowledging the UDF's victory, attributed it to a sympathy wave for Oommen Chandy and anti-incumbency sentiment against the Left government. BJP State President K. Surendran stated that the decline in the party's votes compared to the previous assembly elections was due to people's desire to send a message to the Pinarayi Vijayan-led government.
The results of this bypoll have significant implications for Kerala's political landscape, as the UDF's victory marks the end of an era in the Puthuppally constituency and underscores the evolving political dynamics in the state.

INC secures victory in Kerala bypoll, retains historic Puthuppally seat

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The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) celebrated a resounding victory in the bypolls for the Dhanpur and Boxanagar Assembly seats in Tripura, marking a historic turning point in the northeastern state that was once considered a stronghold of the Left.
The BJP attributed its success in the Tripura bypolls to the strong and widely recognized leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his development-focused mantra, "Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas" (Together with All, Development for All). The election results were seen as an endorsement of the developmental initiatives undertaken by the BJP's government in Tripura.
Home Minister Amit Shah expressed his gratitude to the people of Tripura, stating, "I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the people of Tripura for making the BJP victorious in the Boxanagar and Dhanpur assembly bye-elections." He added that the victory would further strengthen their resolve to transform Tripura into a prosperous state under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi.
BJP Chief J.P. Nadda echoed these sentiments, emphasising that the election outcome reflected the people's approval of the developmental work carried out by the BJP government in Tripura. Nadda congratulated Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha, state BJP president Rajib Bhattacharjee, and the party workers for their "resounding" victory.
Sambit Patra, BJP's in-charge for the northeastern region, hailed the party's triumph and asserted that the results had shattered the arrogance of the opposition's "ghamandiya" (arrogant) alliance. He characterised their defeat as proof that the opposition's alliance was a "thugbandhan" (alliance of thugs).
According to the Election Commission, Tafajjal Hossain of the BJP secured victory in the Boxanagar constituency, which has a substantial minority population, by a margin of 30,237 votes. Hossain received 34,146 votes, while Mizan Hossain of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) garnered 3,909 votes.
In the Dhanpur seat, BJP's Bindu Debnath emerged victorious, winning by a margin of 18,871 votes. Debnath secured 30,017 votes, while Kaushik Chanda of the CPI(M) received 11,146 votes. Both seats in Sepahijala district witnessed a head-to-head contest between the BJP and the CPI(M), as the two other opposition parties, Tipra Motha and Congress, did not field candidates.
The CPI(M) boycotted the counting of votes, alleging widespread rigging during the polling and inaction on the part of the Election Commission.
The by-elections took place on September 5, with an average turnout of 86.5 percent recorded in the two seats. Counting was conducted under tight security at the Sonamura Girls’ School.
The bypoll for the Boxanagar constituency was necessitated by the passing of CPI(M) MLA Samsul Haque, while the resignation of Union Minister Pratima Bhoumik as the MLA from Dhanpur led to the bypoll in that seat. Notably, the BJP had won the Dhanpur seat for the first time in the Assembly polls held seven months ago and successfully retained it in the by-election.
With these victories, the BJP's tally in the 60-member Assembly rose to 33. The party's ally, IPFT, holds one MLA, Tipra Motha has 13 MLAs, the CPI(M) has 10, and the Congress has three. The BJP's remarkable performance in the bypolls signals a significant shift in Tripura's political landscape, marking the end of the Communist dominance that had characterized the state for years.