News Arena Network

Deepan

The fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections witnessed a 57% voter turnout across 49 constituencies spanning six states and two Union territories on Monday.&nbsp;
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The electoral exercise was marked by sporadic violence in West Bengal and technical glitches in electronic voting machines (EVMs) at several booths, notably in West Bengal and Odisha.
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The voter turnout varied significantly across regions. Maharashtra reported the lowest participation at 48.88%, while West Bengal saw the highest at 73%.&nbsp;
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Other states recorded moderate turnouts: Bihar at 52.55%, Jammu and Kashmir at 54.21%, Jharkhand at 63%, Odisha at 60.72%, Uttar Pradesh at 57.43%, and Ladakh at 67.15%.
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The Election Commission, providing updates till 7 pm, noted an overall approximate polling percentage of 57.38%.&nbsp;
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Despite the official voting time ending at 6 pm, queues at polling stations ensured that the process continued beyond the deadline.
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In Jammu and Kashmir&rsquo;s Baramulla constituency, voter turnout was notably high at over 54%, the highest in nearly four decades, surpassing even the 1984 turnout of 58.84%.
<h3>Violence in West Bengal</h3>
West Bengal, which saw a high voter turnout, was also the&nbsp;epicenter&nbsp;of several violent incidents.&nbsp;
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Clashes between Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporters disrupted voting in multiple constituencies.&nbsp;
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Areas such as Barrackpore, Bongaon, and Arambagh experienced significant unrest.
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In Arambagh&rsquo;s Khanakul area, TMC and BJP supporters engaged in physical altercations, necessitating police intervention.&nbsp;
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Similarly, in Hooghly, BJP MP and candidate Locket Chatterjee faced protests from TMC activists, leading to a tense standoff that required police and central forces to disperse the crowds.
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Howrah&rsquo;s Liluah area also witnessed violence, with BJP accusing TMC workers of booth jamming, resulting in clashes that were quelled by central police forces.&nbsp;
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In Bongaon, BJP leader Subir Biswas was reportedly beaten by TMC supporters outside a booth and had to be hospitalized.&nbsp;
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Further, Union Minister and BJP candidate Shantanu Thakur reported finding a person impersonating his rival, TMC candidate Biswajit Das, inside a polling booth.
<h3>EVM glitches and other complaints</h3>
Technical issues with EVMs were reported from several states, with the Election Commission receiving 1,036 complaints regarding malfunctioning machines and political agents being barred from entering polling stations.
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In Uttar Pradesh, the Congress party highlighted EVM malfunctions and alleged that BJP supporters prevented voters from casting ballots in Rae Bareli.&nbsp;
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Samajwadi Party candidate Shreya Verma complained about irregularities at polling booths in Gonda.&nbsp;
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Additionally, voters in Hisampur Madho village, Kaushambi, boycotted the polls, demanding assurances for local infrastructure improvements.
<h3>Maharashtra and Odisha incidents</h3>
In Maharashtra, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray expressed concerns over inadequate voter facilities at polling stations.&nbsp;
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BJP leader Kirit Somaiya accused Shiv Sena (UBT) members of corrupt practices, including using a dummy EVM for educational purposes, which led to police intervention.
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Odisha witnessed a tragic incident where an auto-rickshaw driver transporting voters was murdered near Sarsara in Bargarh district.&nbsp;
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While the driver&rsquo;s family alleged a political motive, the police cited personal enmity as the cause. EVM glitches were also reported at multiple locations in the state.
<h3>Overall voting statistics and progress</h3>
<ul>
<li>This phase saw over 8.95 crore eligible voters, including 4.26 crore females and 5,409 third-gender electors.&nbsp;</li>
<li>The Election Commission deployed 9.47 lakh polling officials across 94,732 polling stations to facilitate the voting process</li>
<li>With the completion of polling in 23 states and Union territories covering 379 seats, the election process moves closer to culmination.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Chandigarh

57% turnout in 5th phase of LS elections, Bengal hit by clashes

Ayesha Banerjee

More than 54.57% of the electorate voted in the Baramulla Lok Sabha seat in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday till 5 pm, said officials.
 The polls will end at 6 pm in the constituency, which saw a turnout of roughly 34.89 per cent in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.
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However, long lines of voters, especially women and first-time voters dressed in traditional outfits, were seen queuing at their nearest polling stations to participate in the festival of democracy.
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In 1996, this constituency recorded the highest-ever percentage of 50 per cent; which declined continuously throughout the recent decades.
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In 2004, the seat registered around 36 per cent turnout, followed by 41 per cent in 2009, 39 per cent in 2015, and 35 per cent in 2019.
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The issue was whether the constituency would break its 1996 record.
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According to data provided by the Election Commission of India, voting began somewhat slowly, with 7.6 per cent reported till 9 am.
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Experts had forecast that, like the Srinagar voter turnout, Baramulla constituency was also about to break its previous record.
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However, as the day progressed, the turnout increased dramatically, nearly tripling by 11 am to 21.51 per cent, by 1 pm to 34.6 per cent and by 3 pm to 44.90 per cent.
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Till 5 pm, the turnout had already crossed its previous best of 50 per cent, registering 54.57 per cent, said officials.
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Key contenders in the race include National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah, People's Conference President Sajad Gani Lone, and incarcerated Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) leader Sheikh Abdul Rashid, also known as &lsquo;Engineer&rsquo; Rashid.

Srinagar

Post

54.57 per cent voter turnout in J&K’s Baramulla breaks 1996 record

Palak Chouhan

The Employees&rsquo; Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) reported on Monday that net membership surged by 1.44 million in March, reflecting increased employment in the country&rsquo;s organised sector during the month.
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According to the data, 747,000 new members enrolled in March, with the 18&ndash;25 age group constituting a dominant 56.83 percent. This demographic trend indicates that the majority of individuals joining the organised workforce are youth, primarily first-time job seekers, according to an official statement.
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A gender-wise analysis of the payroll data reveals that out of the 747,000 new members, approximately 200,000 are women. Additionally, the net female member addition for the month stood at around 290,000. This increase in female membership signifies a broader shift towards a more inclusive and diverse workforce, the statement added.
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The payroll data also highlighted that approximately 1.18 million members exited and subsequently rejoined EPFO. These members switched jobs and rejoined establishments covered under EPFO, opting to transfer their accumulations instead of applying for a final settlement. This decision helps safeguard long-term financial well-being and extends social security protection.
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Industry-wise data for March showed growth in membership in sectors such as manufacturing, marketing services, computer usage, restaurants, chartered services, fish processing, non-vegetarian food preservation, and beedi making.

New Delhi

EPFO records 1.44 million new members in March, with youths making up 57%

With the national capital reeling under an intense heatwave, the Delhi government on Monday&nbsp;issued a directive for all private and government-aided schools that have not yet closed for summer vacations to do so immediately.
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In an official circular, the Directorate of Education reiterated that all schools&nbsp;were&nbsp;originally instructed&nbsp;to observe summer vacations from May 11 to June 30 for the current academic year.
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"...all the govt.&nbsp;schools&nbsp;are closed w.e.f. 11.05.24. However, it has&nbsp;been observed&nbsp;that some of the govt.&nbsp;aided&nbsp;and unaided recognised private schools are still open during ongoing severe heat waves," the circular stated. "Therefore, all the heads of govt.&nbsp;aided&nbsp;and unaided recognised private schools of Delhi are advised to close the schools for summer vacation&nbsp;with immediate effect."
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The decision comes as Delhi experiences a relentless rise in temperatures, culminating in a peak of 44.4 degrees Celsius on Sunday &ndash; the highest recorded this summer.&nbsp;
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This&nbsp;marked a significant increase&nbsp;from 43.6 degrees Celsius on Saturday&nbsp;and&nbsp;42.5 degrees Celsius on Friday.
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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted continued heatwave conditions across many parts of Delhi, with some areas expected to experience severe heatwave conditions.&nbsp;
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A red alert has been issued for the next five days, underscoring the&nbsp;urgency of the situation.
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The directive aims to safeguard the health and well-being of students amid the extreme weather.&nbsp;
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The closure applies to all government-aided and unaided recognised private schools in the city, following the precedent already set by government schools.
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Parents and school authorities&nbsp;are urged&nbsp;to ensure that children stay hydrated and avoid exposure to the sun during peak hours. The IMD has advised people to&nbsp;take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the adverse effects of&nbsp;the heatwave.
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As the capital braces for a challenging week ahead, the emphasis remains on prioritising safety and health in the face of escalating temperatures.

Heatwave forces early summer break for Delhi schools

Shyna Gupta

Attorney General R Venkataramani emphasized the critical need to define privacy parameters within the context of competition law.
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Speaking at the 15th annual day lecture of the Competition Commission of India (CCI), Venkataramani highlighted the ongoing global challenge of regulating digital markets amidst rising concerns over data privacy and anti-competitive practices.
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"Establishing the contours of privacy from a competition perspective is important," Venkataramani said.
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Venkataramani's comments come amid heightened scrutiny of tech giants, referred to as "gatekeepers of data," who often leverage their dominant market positions to the detriment of competition and consumer welfare.
&nbsp;
He noted that various international competition regulators have initiated actions against such entities, reflecting the global nature of these challenges.
&nbsp;
"The current debate centers on ex-post actions, such as investigations and sanctions, versus ex-ante measures, like bans and prohibitive rules," Venkataramani said.
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Recognizing privacy as a fundamental right closely tied to data protection laws, Venkataramani argued that integrating privacy considerations into competition law is inevitable.
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He mentioned that the CCI is already dealing with cases in this realm, while related constitutional cases are pending before the Supreme Court.
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"Regulators must speak through more than just their decisions," he stated, advocating for comprehensive guidelines to delineate acceptable conduct in digital markets.
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The Attorney General also raised broader questions about the impact of competition laws on wealth distribution and whether these laws could effectively address economic inequalities inherent in market growth.
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Attorney Gen Venkataramani stresses privacy in competition law at CCI annual day

Miscreants vandalised the premises of the Ramakrishna Mission (RKM) in Jalpaiguri district, threatening monks and other employees at gunpoint in the early hours of Sunday.&nbsp;
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The attack, allegedly staged by a local land mafia, has sparked a political row with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee trading accusations.
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"Around 3 am, approximately ten armed youths stormed the ashram, heading to the first floor where they threatened eight individuals, including senior monks, at gunpoint," an RKM official told PTI. "They vandalised the property, broke CCTV cameras, and locked the main gate before fleeing the scene."
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The local police intervened, breaking the locks to rescue the monks and staff left stranded. "The incident stems from a property dispute. Our monks have&nbsp;lodged a complaint at&nbsp;Bhaktinagar police station, naming a local strongman and his associates," the RKM official added.&nbsp;
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The police have initiated a probe and assured the ashram of their security. "We have full faith in the police and administration," the official said.
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The attack has drawn condemnation from across the political spectrum.&nbsp;
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing an election rally in Jhargram, accused the ruling TMC of fostering a climate of terror.&nbsp;
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"It is shameful that the TMC has taken up the onus of hurting the religious faith of Hindus in Bengal. The CM is threatening the Ramakrishna Mission and Bharat Sevashram Ashram monks," Modi declared.
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Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, speaking at a public meeting in Bankura's Onda, denied the allegations, asserting that she bore no ill will towards the Ramakrishna Mission.
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"Why should I be against an institution or insult it? I have spoken about one or two individuals," Banerjee said.&nbsp;
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She also praised the Bharat Sevashram Sangha for its public service efforts.

Siliguri

Miscreants vandalise Ramakrishna Mission property in Bengal

Amarpreet Kaur

Actor Yami Gautam and filmmaker Aditya Dhar&nbsp;on Monday announced&nbsp;that they have become parents to a baby boy,&nbsp;who was&nbsp;born on May 10.&nbsp;
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Gautam and Dhar announced on their Instagram page and&nbsp;also shared that they have&nbsp;named the child Vedavid.&nbsp;
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"We are thrilled to announced the arrival of our beloved son, Vedavid, who graced us with his birth on the auspicious day of Akshay Tritiya. Please shower him with all your kind blessings and love," they said in a post.&nbsp;
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The couple, who have worked together on films such as "Uri: The Surgical Strike" and "Article 370", thanked the team of doctors at Surya&nbsp;Hospital&nbsp;where Gautam&nbsp;was admitted&nbsp;for her delivery.
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"As we embark on this beautiful journey of parenthood, we eagerly anticipate the bright future that awaits our son. With every milestone he achieves, we&nbsp;are filled&nbsp;with the hope and belief that he will grow to become a beacon of pride for our family&nbsp;as well as&nbsp;our beloved nation," the couple captioned their post.

Mumbai

Yami Gautam, Aditya Dhar welcome baby boy

The fifth phase of Lok Sabha elections witnessed a remarkable turnout of Bollywood celebrities exercising their right to vote in Mumbai.&nbsp;
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Prominent stars such as Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, Akshay Kumar, and many others made their way to polling stations across the city to participate in the democratic process.
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Polling commenced at 7 am across 13 Lok Sabha constituencies in Maharashtra, including six in Mumbai.&nbsp;
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Here's a glimpse of how the Bollywood fraternity contributed to this electoral event.
<h4>Amitabh Bachchan and family</h4>
The legendary actor, Amitabh Bachchan, accompanied by his wife, Jaya Bachchan, cast their votes at a polling booth in the Juhu area of Mumbai. Despite recent hand injury, daughter-in-law Aishwarya Rai Bachchan joined them at the polling booth, showcasing a commitment to their civic duty.
<h4>Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao</h4>
Aamir Khan and his ex-wife, Kiran Rao, were captured on camera after voting at a polling booth in Bandra. Khan emphasized the importance of voting and urged fellow citizens to participate in the democratic process wholeheartedly.
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"I just want to appeal to all Indians to come out in large numbers and cast their vote and become part of this democracy. It is our responsibility to vote. I appeal to everyone to step out and vote, and don&rsquo;t waste your vote. I want youth, elderly, women, men and everyone should come out and vote,&rdquo; the superstar told media persons.
<h4>Shah Rukh Khan and family</h4>
Shah Rukh Khan, along with his wife Gauri and their children - Aryan, Suhana, and AbRam - were spotted entering a polling station in Bandra. The Khan family's active participation reflected their dedication to contributing to the electoral process.
<h4>Salman Khan and family</h4>
Superstar Salman Khan, accompanied by his parents Salim Khan and Salma Khan, exercised their franchise, setting an example for their millions of fans across the nation.
<h4>Other Celebrities who cast their votes</h4>
Numerous other Bollywood celebrities, including Ranbir Kapoor, Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, Varun Dhawan, Shahid Kapoor, Hema Malini, Tabu, Kajol, Saif Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Kiara Advani, Rekha, Sunny Deol, Sanjay Dutt, and many more, participated in the voting process.
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Several celebrities shared their thoughts after casting their votes. Akshay Kumar, who voted for the first time as an Indian citizen, expressed his desire for a developed and strong India.&nbsp;
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"I want my India to be developed and strong and I&rsquo;ve kept these things in my mind when I went to cast my vote, and all the Indians should think what is right for them and vote,&rdquo; Akshay Kumar said after voting at a polling station in Juhu.
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Farhan Akhtar highlighted the need for good governance, while Hrithik Roshan encouraged voters to study the candidates before making their choices.
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Akthar, who queued up at a polling station in Bandra West to cast his vote said, &ldquo;My vote is for good governance, the government that looks after all people, gives us a better city.&rdquo; The actor-filmmaker urged people, especially youngsters to step out and vote.
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"I just heard from somebody that young people are complaining that it&rsquo;s too hot but it's not hot at all, so please do step out, do vote,&rdquo; Akhtar said. His sister, filmmaker Zoya Akhtar and mother Honey Irani also voted.
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Actor Hema Malini, who's BJP candidate from Mathura Lok Sabha constituency, said she is hopeful that voters' turnout will be good.
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"We are very much concerned (about voter turn-out). We&rsquo;ve done maximum publicity for people to come and vote. Across India, celebrities have requested (people to vote). I&rsquo;m sure the voter turnout will be good,&rdquo; Malini, who was accompanied by daughter Esha, said after casting her vote in Mumbai.
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Hrithik Roshan, who came to vote with his family, said, &ldquo;Study the candidate before you vote, know what you are voting for.&rdquo;&nbsp;
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Actor Manoj Bajpayee also urged people to cast their votes.&nbsp;
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"It is the biggest celebration of democracy, and you get this chance to elect your leader in five years. I appeal to everyone to use your rights because you will get this chance again after five years and for those five years, you will not have the right to complain," the actor said.
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Konkana Sen Sharma urged people to &ldquo;carefully&rdquo; cast their votes.
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"I'm feeling very good that I&rsquo;ve cast my vote. I love my country; it is my democratic right as a citizen. We all should cast our votes carefully,&rdquo; Sen Sharma said.
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Veteran actor Paresh Rawal said, &ldquo;Everyone should cast their vote no matter if it's hot or cold. You are voting for the country and India&rsquo;s growth.&rdquo;&nbsp;
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Anil Kapoor said it is his &ldquo;duty and right&rdquo; to vote.
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"I am proud to be a citizen of this country, there is no country like India. The voter turnout is terrific. I&rsquo;m sure more people will come (to vote),&rdquo; Kapoor said.
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Bollywood heavyweights exercise their franchise

A voter turnout of 52.35 per cent was recorded in five Lok Sabha constituencies in Bihar till 5 pm on Monday, officials said.
 Around 55.30 per cent turnout was registered in Muzaffarpur, 53.81 per cent in Hajipur, 53.13 per cent in Sitamarhi, 50.46 per cent in Saran and 49.01 per cent in Madhubani till 5 pm.
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Polling began at 7 am in Muzaffarpur, Madhubani, Sitamarhi, Saran and Hajipur Lok Sabha constituencies and will continue till 6 pm, said a senior official at the CEO's office, according to PTI.
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More than 95 lakh voters were expected to vote for 80 candidates at 9,436 polling stations.
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Of the total voters, 45.11 lakh are women, 21 lakh are under 29 years of age and 1.26 lakh are in the age group of 18-19 years.
&nbsp;
Talking to reporters in Patna, Bihar BJP president and Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary said, "Voting is going on very smoothly in all five constituencies in the state today."&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai cast his vote on Monday at a polling booth in the Hajipur Lok Sabha constituency.
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"I urge people to exercise their franchise in large numbers. It's a festival of democracy," he said after casting his vote. Rai is seeking re-election from Ujiarpur Lok Sabha constituency where voting took place on May 13.

Patna

52.35 per cent voter turnout in Bihar till 5 pm

Following a heat wave alert issued for several districts in Himachal Pradesh, the Directorate of Higher Education in the state&nbsp;on Monday&nbsp;ordered a change in school timings for places in the lower hills. &nbsp;
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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday issued a heat wave alert for 8 out of 12 districts, barring Shimla, Chamba, Kinnau Lahaul, and Spiti.
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The heat wave has also left the political leaders in a quandary as they&nbsp;are unable to&nbsp;move out during the daytime for campaigning across the state, which goes to polls on June 1 in the last phase of Lok Sabha elections.
&nbsp;
Amarjeet Sharma, Director&nbsp;of,&nbsp;the&nbsp;Higher Education department stated that instruction has&nbsp;been issued&nbsp;for adjusting the class timings from 7.30 am to 1 pm in the schools in Kangra, Hamirpur, Una, Bilaspur, Baddi-Barotiwala-Nalagarh area of Solan, and Poanta sahib and Nahan In Sirmaur district.
&nbsp;
In a notification issued on Monday, Sharma said that these areas are experiencing an unprecedented rise in the maximum temperature up to 45 degrees Celsius&nbsp;and&nbsp;students are facing difficulties due to the harsh weather conditions.
&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Kangra Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa also announced that classes will now start at 7.30 am and end at 1 pm. The new timings will apply to all sub-divisions of Kangra district, except Dharamshala, Baijnath, Jaisinghpur, and Palampur, and will remain in effect until further notice, he said.
&nbsp;
Additionally, schools have&nbsp;been advised&nbsp;to avoid&nbsp;any&nbsp;outdoor activities during this period and ensure proper drinking water availability for students, Bairwa said.
&nbsp;
In the Bilaspur district,&nbsp;the&nbsp;opening and closing times&nbsp;of schools&nbsp;have&nbsp;been changed.&nbsp;Classes will now be conducted from 8 am to 2 pm, Bilaspur Deputy Commissioner Abid Hussain Sadiq said in a notification in this regard.
&nbsp;
The new system will come into effect from Tuesday. Besides, Bilaspur&nbsp;Regional&nbsp;Manager of the Himachal Road Transport&nbsp;Corporation&nbsp;has also&nbsp;been requested&nbsp;to reschedule the bus timings for the convenience of students and teachers.
&nbsp;
Most parts of the state&nbsp;on Sunday&nbsp;reeled under scorching heat as maximum temperatures stayed three to six degrees Celsius above the season's&nbsp;normal.
&nbsp;
Una was the hottest in the state on Sunday&nbsp;with&nbsp;the maximum temperature reaching 44.2 degrees Celsius, followed by Neri recording 44 degrees Celsius, Bilaspur at 42.4 degrees Celsius, Dhaula Kuan at 41.9 degrees Celsius, Sundernagar at 40.3 degrees Celsius, Berthin 40.2 degrees Celsius and Kangra 40 degrees Celsius.
&nbsp;
The meteorological centre in Shimla&nbsp;on Sunday&nbsp;issued a yellow alert for heat waves for the next four days.
&nbsp;
The prolonged heat wave can lead to increased hospital admissions for heat-related illnesses, cardiovascular and respiratory disorders, and various heat stress conditions, such as heat stroke, according to doctors.&nbsp;

Shimla

Himachal schools alter timings amid heatwave alert

West Bengal witnessed an encouraging voter turnout of 73 percent&nbsp;until 5 pm on Monday across seven Lok Sabha constituencies, as confirmed by an Election Commission official.
&nbsp;
Among the constituencies,&nbsp;Arambag&nbsp;parliamentary seat reported the highest polling percentage at 76.90%, closely followed by Bangaon at 75.73%, and Uluberia at 74.50%.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Hooghly and Sreerampur registered 74.17% and 71.18% respectively, while Howrah and Barrackpore recorded 68.84% each, stated the official.
&nbsp;
Polling commenced at 7 am and will continue until 6 pm.
&nbsp;
By 4:30 pm, the state CEO's office had received 1,913 complaints related to the ongoing polling, the official mentioned.
&nbsp;
A staggering total of 1,25,23,702 voters, including 61,72,034 women and 348 third-gender individuals, are eligible to cast their votes across 13,481 polling stations.
&nbsp;
To ensure a smooth electoral process, the commission has marked over 57% of the polling stations as sensitive and deployed over 60,000 personnel from central forces, in addition to around 30,000 policemen.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
This deployment of security forces exceeds that of any previous round of elections in the state.
&nbsp;
A total of 88 candidates are contesting in the fifth phase, with Bongaon witnessing the highest number of contestants at 15.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Union Minister Shantanu Thakur is among the prominent figures vying for victory, facing TMC's Biswajit Das.

Kolkata

West Bengal records 73% voter turnout in 7 LS seats till 5 pm

Neha Singh

After a whirlwind electioneering, some prominent leaders from Andhra Pradesh are currently on a break, scattered across diverse destinations, enjoying some much-needed relaxation.
&nbsp;
Polls for the 175 Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha seats in the state were held on May 13 and the counting of votes will be taken up on June 4, nationwide.
&nbsp;
YSRCP supremo and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on May 17 left for a foreign tour with family.
&nbsp;
Jagan, who is currently in Europe, is expected to return during the month-end, sources close to him said.
&nbsp;
The YSRCP chief contested from Pulivendula Assembly segment in the recently concluded polls.
&nbsp;
APCC chief Y.S. Sharmila also left for US to spend time with her son Raja Reddy. Her mother Y.S. Vijayamma is already in US with her grandson Raja Reddy.
&nbsp;
Sharmila contested elections from Kadapa Lok Sabha constituency.
&nbsp;
Similarly, Telugu Desam Party supremo and Leader of the Opposition Nara Chandrababu Naidu also, along with his family left the country after the polls, TDP sources said.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;Naidu will be coming back at the end of May. He may also undergo a health check-up in the USA during his vacation,&rdquo; they said.
He also visited Shirdi and offered prayers at the Sai Baba temple before embarking on the voyage.
&nbsp;
The TDP leader is contesting from Kuppam Assembly constituency.
&nbsp;
Janasena founder and actor Pawan Kalyan also left for a foreign country after the polls and is expected to return in a couple of days, party sources said while refusing to share details.
&nbsp;
Kalyan contested from Pithapuram Assembly segment.
&nbsp;
Naidu&rsquo;s son Lokesh, along with his family is also currently on an international tour. He is contesting from Mangalagiri Assembly seat from where he lost in 2019.
&nbsp;
The YSRCP contested in all 175 Assembly seats and 25 Lok Sabha segments in the state.
&nbsp;
As part of a seat-sharing deal among NDA partners, the TDP was allocated 144 Assembly and 17 Lok Sabha constituencies while the Bharatiya Janata Party contested from six Lok Sabha and 10 Assembly seats.
&nbsp;
The Janasena fielded candidates in two Lok Sabha and 21 Assembly seats.
&nbsp;

Amaravati

Post polls, vacation beckons Andhra Pradesh leaders

Vats Ambardar

Around 66.45 per cent polling has been recorded in the Gandey Assembly constituency of Jharkhand, from where former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren&rsquo;s wife Kalpana Soren Murmu is contesting the by-polls.
&nbsp;
Kalpana Soren met women voters at a polling booth in Girigih district and flashed a victory sign. She also visited several polling stations along the way and inquired about the voting status there.
&nbsp;
Kalpana said that the people are excited to vote, which paints a very pleasant picture. When asked about election results, she said that it would be known on June 4. Soren&rsquo;s direct contest is with BJP's Dilip Verma in Gandey, for whom PM Narendra Modi had held a campaign rally in Koderma.
&nbsp;
Talking about the issues of the bye-election, Kalpana Soren said that the condition of the roads, and the situation of drinking water and irrigation is not good in the constituency. She said that there is a need to work in this direction. She said that the demand of the girls for a degree college in the area will be considered.
&nbsp;
On the voting taking place on three Lok Sabha seats in the State, Kalpana said that people are coming out to vote, which shows that the INDI alliance is strong.
&nbsp;
Meanwhile, in a social media post on Monday Kalpana said, &ldquo;Today, on the day of the beginning of my political innings, I am missing Hemant Soren&hellip;Politics, party, and government all remained your responsibility. I was happy taking care of a home, and children, respected Baba, my mother and my family. Neither was I interested in joining politics nor did I ever think that I have to do this. But the dictators imprisoned my soul along with you on 31st January.&rdquo;

Ranchi

66.45 % polling in Gandey bye-election, Kalpana Soren meets voters

Ansh Mavani

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has disassociated itself from a study on the Covaxin vaccine, citing serious methodological flaws and an erroneous acknowledgment of ICMR's support.
&nbsp;
The study, titled &ldquo;Long-Term Safety Analysis of the BBVl52 Coronavirus Vaccine in Adolescents and Adults: Findings from a 1-Year Prospective Study in North India'' by Kaur et al., was published in the journal Drug Safety.
&nbsp;
ICMR's Director General, Rajiv Bahl, has written to the authors of the paper and the editor of the journal Springer Nature, requesting the immediate removal of the acknowledgment to ICMR and the publication of an erratum.
&nbsp;
Bahl highlighted the poor methodology and design of the study, which undermined its findings. The study had acknowledged ICMR for research support without any prior approval or intimation, which Bahl deemed inappropriate and unacceptable.
&nbsp;
Covaxin, the anti-Covid-19 vaccine, was developed by Bharat Biotech in collaboration with ICMR's National Institute of Virology. The study's flaws included the absence of a control group of unvaccinated individuals, making it impossible to attribute reported events solely to the Covaxin vaccine.
&nbsp;
There was no provision for background rates of observed events, preventing an assessment of changes in incidence post-vaccination. Additionally, baseline information of the participants was missing, and the tool used for the study did not align with the &lsquo;Adverse Events of Special Interest (AESI)&rsquo; standards referenced in the paper.
&nbsp;
Data collection was conducted via telephone a year after vaccination without verification through clinical records or physician examination, introducing significant bias.
&nbsp;
Bahl also noted that similar acknowledgments to ICMR have been made in previous papers without permission, raising concerns about the authors&rsquo; practices. He urged the authors to immediately rectify the acknowledgment to ICMR and publish an erratum. Failure to do so may prompt ICMR to consider legal and administrative action.
&nbsp;
The editor has been asked to retract the paper, which implicitly makes conclusions on vaccine safety that are not supported by evidence. This incident underscores the importance of rigorous methodology and ethical practices in scientific research, especially when it pertains to public health.
&nbsp;
Earlier this month, amid reports over potential rare side effects of the AstraZeneca-Oxford COVID-19 vaccine, Bharat Biotech, which developed Covaxin, stated that the vaccine was developed with a &ldquo;single-minded focus on safety first.&rdquo;
&nbsp;
They emphasised that Covaxin was the only Covid vaccine in the Indian government's immunisation program to have conducted efficacy trials in India.
&nbsp;
ICMR's disassociation from the Covaxin safety study by Kaur et al. due to methodological flaws and inappropriate acknowledgment highlights the need for stringent research standards and ethical conduct in scientific publications.
&nbsp;
The incident also emphasises the collaborative efforts and rigorous testing that underpin the development of vaccines like Covaxin, ensuring their safety and efficacy for public use.

ICMR demands retraction of erroneous Covaxin research

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is conducting election rallies in&nbsp;Haryana,&nbsp;ahead of the Lok Sabha polls in the state. Today, rallying in Haryana, Shah slammed Congress, saying that the party did not revoke Article 370, which allowed special status to Jammu and Kashmir, for&nbsp;the sake of&nbsp;appeasement politics.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Addressing an election rally here, Shah reiterated that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) belongs to India and "we will take it back".
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
करनाल (हरियाणा) जनसभा में आए बहनों-भाइयों का उत्साह बता रहा है कि यहाँ की जनता हर बूथ पर कमल खिलाकर लोकसभा और विधानसभा, दोनों में भाजपा को पहले से भी ज्यादा मतों से विजयी बना रही है। <a href="https://t.co/jImeKfo5ws">pic.twitter.com/jImeKfo5ws</a>
&mdash; Amit Shah (Modi Ka Parivar) (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1792501361680306269?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, who is contesting the Karnal assembly by-poll, and former chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar, who is in the fray for the Karnal Lok Sabha seat, were also present.&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The senior BJP leader also attacked the grand old party on the Ram temple issue, saying top Congress leaders such as Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and Sonia Gandhi did not&nbsp;take part in the temple's consecration ceremony to please its minority vote bank.
&nbsp;
Targeting Congress on Kashmir, he&nbsp;said&nbsp;"For appeasement politics, they did not revoke Article 370."&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
कांग्रेस ने संवैधानिक पद पर बैठे जाट किसान के बेटे उपराष्ट्रपति जगदीप धनकड़ जी का अपमान करने का काम किया है। <a href="https://t.co/qkzKAjL1Zt">pic.twitter.com/qkzKAjL1Zt</a>
&mdash; Amit Shah (Modi Ka Parivar) (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1792517317823471833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
The Congress did not revoke the article despite a rise in terrorism in the area, he said.
&nbsp;
"You all made Narendra Modi ji the Prime Minister for the second time, and on August 5, 2019, he scrapped Article 370. And now our tricolour proudly flutters in Kashmir," he said.

Amit Shah rallies in Haryana

A government schoolteacher in Bihar's Muzaffarpur was arrested and sent to jail on Sunday speaking out against PM Modi in class and telling children that no one should vote for him, an official said on Sunday.
&nbsp;
According to Muzaffarpur SSP Rakesh Kumar, the teacher was booked for violating the election model code of conduct, after an FIR by the district education officer (DEO), PTI reported.
&nbsp;
DEO Ajay Kumar Singh said teacher Harendra Rajak's conduct was brought to his notice by family members of a number of students of the government secondary school at Amrakh in Kurhani block.
&nbsp;
"A written complaint was submitted by the family members that children were being told by the teacher that nobody should vote for Modi since foodgrains unfit for human consumption were being distributed under the free ration scheme," the DEO said.
&nbsp;
He added, "a number of boys and girls from the class also confirmed that Rajak had been saying such things inside the classroom. Prima facie it was a violation of the model code of conduct which forbids any government employee from trying to influence poll outcome by speaking for or against any political party. Hence, the FIR was lodged against the teacher for needful action."

Bihar schoolteacher arrested for telling class that no one should vote for Modi

India will observe a one-day state mourning on Tuesday as a gesture of tribute to Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash, announced the Union Home Ministry.
&nbsp;
In honour of the late Iranian&nbsp;president, the national flag will&nbsp;be lowered&nbsp;to half-mast on all buildings across India where it&nbsp;is regularly hoisted.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Additionally, there will be a cessation of official entertainment activities during&nbsp;the period of&nbsp;state mourning.
&nbsp;
The fatal incident occurred on Monday, as reported by&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;state&nbsp;media,&nbsp;when the helicopter carrying President Raisi, the country's foreign minister Hossein Amit-Abdollahian, and other officials crashed in a foggy, mountainous area in Iran's northwest region.
&nbsp;
Confirming the demise of President Raisi and Foreign Minister Amit-Abdollahian in the helicopter crash, a spokesperson for the Union Home Ministry expressed condolences and announced the decision for a day of state mourning on May 21 throughout India.
&nbsp;
"On the day of mourning, the national flag will be flown at half-mast throughout India on all buildings where the national flag&nbsp;is flown&nbsp;regularly, and there will be no official entertainment&nbsp;on the day," the spokesperson stated.

India to observe one-day state mourning for late Iranian President, FM

India's mixed 4x400 relay team set a national record while winning the gold medal at the inaugural edition of the Asian Relay Championships here on Monday, but missed the target of entering the Paris Olympics qualification bracket.
&nbsp;
The quartet of Muhammed Ajmal, Jyothika Sri Dandi, Amoj Jacob and Subha Venkatesan clocked 3 minutes 14.12 seconds to win the race. The earlier national record was 3:14.34 clocked by the Indian team while winning a silver medal at the Hangzhou Asian Games last year.
&nbsp;
Monday's timing will put India in the 21st place in the Road to Paris list of World Athletics while the aim was to be either in the 15th or 16th spot. India, thus, is in a difficult position to make the Paris cut.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Bangkok

Indian relay team sets national record, wins gold in Asian Relays

Indian Premier League (IPL) broadcaster, Star Sports refuted claims of broadcasting any private conversation involving Rohit Sharma, following the Indian cricket captain's accusations of privacy breach.
&nbsp;
Rohit Sharma had raised concerns after a video, featuring him and Kolkata Knight&nbsp;Riders'&nbsp;assistant coach Abhishek Nayar, discussing his future at Mumbai Indians, went viral on May 11. 
&nbsp;
Although Kolkata Knight Riders later removed the video from their social media platforms.
&nbsp;
Subsequently, on May 16, during Mumbai Indians' match against Lucknow Super Giants, Rohit Sharma was observed requesting the broadcaster to mute the audio as cameras focused on him once again.
&nbsp;
However, on Sunday, Rohit Sharma accused the channel of broadcasting his private conversation, which Star Sports promptly refuted in a statement.
&nbsp;
Star Sports clarified, "The clip, captured during a training session at Wankhede Stadium on May 16, with authorised access, briefly captured the senior player conversing with friends on the sidelines. No audio from this interaction was recorded or aired."
&nbsp;
The channel further explained that the clip, which only displayed Rohit Sharma's request to refrain from recording audio, was included in their live coverage of pre-match preparations, lacking editorial significance beyond this.
&nbsp;
Rohit Sharma had previously emphasised the importance of exercising restraint when recording on-field moments, cautioning against prioritizing exclusive content over respect for privacy.
&nbsp;
"The need for exclusive content and focusing solely on views and engagement may one day erode the trust between fans, cricketers, and cricket. Let better judgment prevail," Rohit Sharma remarked.
&nbsp;
Star Sports asserted its commitment to safeguarding players' privacy, emphasizing the importance of respecting their personal space while delivering engaging content to fans.
&nbsp;
"Maintaining respect for players' privacy while presenting moments of intense action and preparation is fundamental to our approach, which the broadcaster remains steadfastly dedicated to," the channel affirmed.

Star Sports denies airing Rohit Sharma's private conversation

Reliance Industries Limited Chairman and Managing Director Mukesh Ambani, along with Founder and Chairperson of Reliance Foundation Nita Ambani, cast their votes on Monday at the Malabar Hill polling booth in Mumbai for the ongoing Lok Sabha Election 2024.
&nbsp;
They were joined by Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited Chairman Akash Ambani, who also exercised his right to vote.
&nbsp;
Mukesh Ambani emphasized the importance of voting in a brief statement to the media. &ldquo;Harek bhartiyon ko vote dena chahie, yah meri sab deshvasiyon se appeal hai&hellip;,&rdquo; he said, urging every Indian to participate in the electoral process.
&nbsp;
Nita Ambani also shared her thoughts, highlighting the civic duty of every citizen. &ldquo;I think it&rsquo;s so important as an Indian citizen to vote. I urge everybody in India to go out and exercise their right to vote,&rdquo; she said.
&nbsp;
As the Lok Sabha elections move towards their final stages, polling is underway in 13 constituencies across Maharashtra, including six key constituencies in Mumbai as part of the fifth phase of the polls. These constituencies are crucial in determining the future leadership of the country.
&nbsp;
The voter turnout in these constituencies is expected to be significant, with over 2.46 crore eligible voters set to decide the fate of 264 candidates.
&nbsp;
The constituencies in focus include Mumbai North, Mumbai North Central, Mumbai North West, Mumbai North East, Mumbai South Central, Mumbai South, Thane, Kalyan, Bhiwandi, Palghar, Nashik, Dindori, and Dhule.

Ambani family votes at Malabar hill polling booth in Mumbai

West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee&rsquo;s youngest brother Babun Banerjee on Monday could not cast his vote after his name was not found in the voters&rsquo; list, an election official said.
&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Babun, who is a voter of Howrah town, went to cast his vote at a polling booth when it was discovered that his name was not on the list.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&ldquo;The Election Commission of India is looking into the whole matter. Only it can explain why this happened,&rdquo; Trinamool Congress spokesperson Shantanu Sen said.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">When contacted by the media, Babun declined to take questions on the matter.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Babun had expressed his displeasure after TMC renominated sitting MP Prasun Banerjee for the Howrah Lok Sabha seat in March. Mamata Banerjee had then said she decided to disown him and cut off relationship with him.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">There was a buzz earlier that Babun would contest as an independent candidate from that constituency after the TMC did not nominate him from there. He had claimed that the party promised him a ticket.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">There was a rumour that Babun was contemplating joining the Bharatiya Janata Party.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Babun is the president of the Bengal Olympic Association and Bengal Hockey Association, besides the secretary of the Bengal Boxing Association, and also in charge of the sports wing of the TMC.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Name not on list, Mamata's brother fails to cast vote

The Delhi Police has started a probe into the graffiti found written inside the metro trains and on stations bearing Aam Aadmi Party national convenor and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's name, an officer said on Monday.
&nbsp;
The AAP has attributed the act of vandalism to the BJP, which, it said, wanted to threaten Kejriwal through the graffiti.
&nbsp;
According to a police officer, pictures of certain messages written inside metro trains and stations were shared through an Instagram account 'ankit.goel_91'.
One of the graffiti scribbled inside a metro train read, "Kejriwal Dilli Chhor Dijiye. Please. Otherwise, you will have to remember three slaps, which you planted (sic) before the election. Now the real and actual punch/slap will be there soon. Today's meeting at Jhandewalan.... Ankit.Goel_91"
&nbsp;
Another message read: "#CM Delhi leave us, we don't need freebies anymore. #45 Crore on CM Awas." A third and longer graffito in another metro train, read, "Following are points you are advised to follow... Jal Board Transparent audit and fix the responsibility of the person/leaders concerned, your final say on liquor policy and the kickback received by your leaders or party as a whole and Mr Raghav Chaddha actual eye treatment in AIIMS or Safdarjung or any Indian hospital of your choice. There are the final expectations from the #AAP."
&nbsp;
Similar messages were found written at at least three metro stations - Patel Nagar, Ramesh Nagar, and Rajiv Chowk --, another officer said, adding, police have taken cognisance of the vandalism and started a probe.
&nbsp;
A case under proper sections will be registered at the concerned metro police station, he said.&nbsp;

Graffiti targeting Kejriwal appear in several metro trains; police begin probe

China on Monday denounced Taiwan&rsquo;s new China-Taiwan&nbsp;for&nbsp;his assertion that the self-ruled island is sovereign and vowed to uphold the status quo, saying that he has sent&nbsp;"a dangerous signal"&nbsp;of seeking&nbsp;"Taiwan independence".
&nbsp;
Lai, 64, also known as William Lai, who succeeded his independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) colleague Tsai Ing-wen after winning the popular vote in the January Presidential election this year, was sworn in as the president at a ceremony held in Taipei on Monday.
&nbsp;
China views Taiwan as a rebel province that must&nbsp;be reunified&nbsp;with the mainland, even by force.
&nbsp;
Lai's&nbsp;DPP party does not seek independence from China but maintains that Taiwan is already a sovereign nation.
&nbsp;
In his no-holds-barred inaugural speech, Lai called on China to stop threatening the island, promised&nbsp;to uphold the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, and&nbsp;called on Beijing to work jointly for peace.
&nbsp;
Lai urged Beijing to replace confrontation with dialogue and avowed that Taiwan would never back down in the face of intimidation from China, the Hong Kong-based&nbsp;South China Morning Post&nbsp;reported.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;As the future of both sides of the Taiwan Strait will have a decisive impact on the development of the world, we &ndash; carrying on&nbsp;Taiwan&rsquo;s&nbsp;democratisation &ndash; are the helmsmen of peace,&rdquo;&nbsp;he said.
&nbsp;
Lai said his government will adhere to the&nbsp;&ldquo;four commitments&rdquo;&nbsp;[of national sovereignty, democracy, and freedom] and maintain the status quo without being overbearing or servile.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;We all know that a country has sovereignty. According to the constitution of the Republic of&nbsp;China,&nbsp;(official name for Taiwan)&nbsp;the&nbsp;sovereignty of the Republic of China belongs to the people as a whole,&rdquo;&nbsp;Lai said.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;Anyone who holds Republic of China nationality is a citizen of the Republic of China; thus, it is clear that the Republic of China and the&nbsp;People&rsquo;s&nbsp;Republic of China (PRC) are not subordinate to each other,&rdquo;&nbsp;he affirmed.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;Every individual must unite and cherish the nation. Any political party must resist annexation and protect&nbsp;sovereignty,&nbsp;and cannot sacrifice national sovereignty for political power,"&nbsp;Lai said in an apparent reference to pro-Beijing opposition parties.
&nbsp;
Taiwan&rsquo;s&nbsp;sovereignty is a red rag for China as President Xi Jinping has been consistently maintaining that Taiwan will eventually be part of China.
&nbsp;
Xi has ramped up massive military infrastructure around the Taiwan Strait, the narrow sea that separates the two sides deploying aircraft carriers, with numerous naval ships, jet fighters, and missiles pointing toward the island.
&nbsp;
Much on the expected lines, China hit back with its Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin countering Lai by saying:&nbsp;"Taiwan independence is a dead end".
&nbsp;
"Regardless of the pretext or the banner under which it&nbsp;is pursued, the push for Taiwan independence&nbsp;is destined&nbsp;to fail,"&nbsp;Wang told a media briefing&nbsp;here,&nbsp;in reaction to&nbsp;Lai&rsquo;s&nbsp;remarks.
&nbsp;
A Chinese mainland spokesperson said Lai had sent&nbsp;"a dangerous signal"&nbsp;of seeking&nbsp;"Taiwan independence"&nbsp;and making provocations to undermine cross-Strait peace and stability in his speech upon assuming the role of Taiwan&nbsp;region's&nbsp;new leader.
&nbsp;
China&nbsp;doesn't&nbsp;officially recognise the office of the Presidency of Taiwan or any ministerial designations.
&nbsp;
Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office,&nbsp;described&nbsp;Lai's&nbsp;speech as one that stubbornly followed the&nbsp;"Taiwan independence"&nbsp;stance, wantonly advocated separatism, incited cross-Strait confrontation, and sought independence by relying on foreign support and by force.
&nbsp;
Chen said the mainstream public aspiration on the island is for peace and&nbsp;development,&nbsp;instead of war and recession. At the same time, Lai has ignored public opinion, exposing his nature as&nbsp;"a worker for Taiwan independence".
&nbsp;
The current complex and grave situation across the Strait is rooted in the fact that&nbsp;Taiwan&rsquo;s&nbsp;ruling Democratic Progressive&nbsp;Party,&nbsp;(DPP) has stubbornly stuck to the separatist stance of&nbsp;"Taiwan independence",&nbsp;rejected&nbsp;the 1992 Consensus that embodies the one-China principle, and&nbsp;kept colluding with external forces to make provocations of seeking&nbsp;"Taiwan independence",&nbsp;Chen said.
&nbsp;
Taiwan is an inalienable part of China, said Chen, stressing that&nbsp;"Taiwan independence"&nbsp;and peace across the Strait are incompatible as fire and water.
&nbsp;
"We have firm determination to resolve the Taiwan question and realise national reunification; we have strong&nbsp;capabilities to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity;&nbsp;and we will take resolute actions to fight separatist activities seeking&nbsp;'Taiwan independence'&nbsp;and external interference',"&nbsp;he said.
&nbsp;
"We will never tolerate any&nbsp;'Taiwan&nbsp;independence'&nbsp;separatist&nbsp;acts in any form,"&nbsp;Chen said&nbsp;according&nbsp;to state-run Xinhua news agency.
&nbsp;
Lai, a doctor turned politician, won a three-way presidential race in January, securing an unprecedented third term for his DPP party.
He had served as&nbsp;Tsai's&nbsp;vice-president since&nbsp;2020,&nbsp;and&nbsp;before that as her premier.
&nbsp;
In his younger days, he&nbsp;was known&nbsp;to be a more radical politician who openly called for Taiwanese independence, much to&nbsp;Beijing's&nbsp;ire, according to a BBC report.
&nbsp;
China labelled him a&nbsp;"troublemaker"&nbsp;ahead of the polls&nbsp;and&nbsp;Chinese state media even suggested he should&nbsp;be prosecuted&nbsp;for secession.&nbsp;

Taipei City

China warns against 'Taiwan Independence' after Prez Lai's inaugural speech

The fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections saw over 47 per cent voter turnout till 3 pm on Monday across 49 constituencies in six states and two Union Territories, marred by sporadic violence in West Bengal and a poll boycott in a Uttar Pradesh village.
&nbsp;
Reports of EVM glitches emerged from booths in Odisha and West Bengal, contributing to the chaos.
&nbsp;
West Bengal recorded the highest turnout at 62.72 per cent, while Maharashtra saw the lowest at 38.77 per cent.
&nbsp;
Other states reported turnout figures as follows: Bihar at 45.33 per cent, Jammu and Kashmir at 44.90 per cent, Jharkhand at 53.90 per cent, Odisha at 48.95 per cent, Uttar Pradesh at 47.55 per cent, and Ladakh at 61.26 per cent.
&nbsp;
The overall turnout by 3 pm stood at approximately 47.53 per cent, according to the Election Commission.
&nbsp;
Violence disrupted the polling process in several constituencies of West Bengal. Clashes between TMC and BJP workers were reported in Barrackpore, Bongaon, and Arambagh, with 1,036 complaints of EVM malfunctions and agents being blocked from booths.
&nbsp;
In Arambagh's Khanakul area, TMC and BJP supporters clashed, while in Hooghly, BJP MP Locket Chatterjee faced protests led by TMC MLA Ashima Patra.
&nbsp;
In Howrah, booth jamming allegations led to violence between BJP and TMC workers, and BJP leader Subir Biswas was beaten in Bongaon's Gayeshpur area.
&nbsp;
In Uttar Pradesh, EVM malfunctions and allegations of voter intimidation surfaced.
&nbsp;
Congress and Samajwadi Party candidates reported issues in Rae Bareli and Gonda. Voters in Hisampur Madho village, Kaushambi, boycotted the polls over unfulfilled infrastructure promises.
&nbsp;
In Maharashtra, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray highlighted poor polling booth facilities, while BJP leader Kirit Somaiya accused Shiv Sena leaders of corrupt practices in Mumbai.
&nbsp;
An auto-rickshaw driver was killed in Odisha's Bargarh district, allegedly over personal enmity, although family members claimed a political motive. EVM glitches were also reported in the state.
&nbsp;
The elections, covering 23 states and Union Territories and 379 seats, continue with phases six and seven scheduled for May 25 and June 1, with vote counting on June 4.

47% voter turnout by 3 pm in fifth phase of LS elections

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Mandi candidate Kangana Ranaut faced the rage of the local population and Congress workers as they showed black flags and raised slogans against her on Monday, May 20, during her visit to Kaza of Lahaul &amp; Spiti.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The Congress workers raised anti-Kangana slogans - "Kangana, go back, Kangana Vangana nahi chalegi".&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Reverting to the protest, the saffron party has filed a complaint with the state chief electoral officer (CEO) demanding transfer of election officials and an investigation into the incident as both the BJP and the Congress were given permission to hold rallies adjacent to each other.
&nbsp;
Ranaut along with former CM &amp; LoP Jairam Thakur addressed a public rally in Kaza.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Speaking on the incident, Thakur stated, "I am disappointed with the Congress Party's deadly attack on our convoy. The district administration is responsible for all this."
&nbsp;
"They permitted them (the Congress party) to organise their program when our public rally was already scheduled... It shows that the Congress party is frustrated due to their defeat."&nbsp;
&nbsp;
They were apparently enraged over her remarks on Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama in April last year.
&nbsp;
Ranaut had tweeted a meme featuring the Dalai Lama that said, "The Dalai Lama receives a warm welcome at the White house". The photoshopped picture in the tweet showed the Dalai Lama sticking his tongue out with US President Joe Biden with a comment - Both of them have the same illness, definitely they could be friends.
&nbsp;
Following this, a group of Buddhists staged a dharna outside her office in Mumbai.
Later she apologised saying she didn't mean to hurt anyone, and it was a harmless joke about Biden being friends with the Dalai Lama.
&nbsp;
Efforts were made to disturb our rally and the Congress workers raised shameful slogans, stopped our carcade and pelted stones, injuring one person." Thakur added that they go for campaigning all over the state but such things have happened for the first time, which shows "frustration" of the Congress and they would take up the issue with the Election Commission.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Later, in a complaint filed with the Himachal Pradesh CEO, BJP state office secretary Parmod Kumar Thakur said the Congress workers allegedly tried to illegally restrain the political procession and even pelted stones and demanded an investigation into the incident.
&nbsp;
"The district administration granted permission for organising a political meeting to the Congress adjacent to the place already scheduled to hold a political meeting of the BJP at Kaza under undue influence of the state government in utter violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC)", he said.
&nbsp;
In the complaint, the BJP demanded the immediate transfer of election officials from Lahaul and Spiti and said giving permission to both the parties at the same location at the same time was a "big lapse" on the part of the Election Commission "in spite of the fact that permission to the BJP was provided first and the officers involved in this act are biased against the BJP, and free and fair elections are doubtful under the circumstances."&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Lahaul and Spiti SP Mayank Chowdhary told PTI that workers of both the BJP and the ruling Congress came face to face but there was no clash and no person was injured. However, one worker sprained his leg, he added.
&nbsp;
Bhishan Shashni, Congress election coordinator for Lahaul and Spiti claimed that the Congress workers were peacefully protesting but a large number of people, who were hurt by Ranaut's remarks about the Tibetan spiritual leader, joined the protest.
&nbsp;
Earlier, Congress candidate from the Mandi Lok Sabha seat Vikramaditya Singh had asked why Ranaut did not visit Spiti and returned from Reckong Peo alleging that she was afraid she would be shown black flags for her remarks against the Dalai Lama.&nbsp;

Kangana Ranaut faces protest from Congress workers, BJP files complaint

Back from a break, P V Sindhu will look to hit the right notes in her quest for some confidence-boosting wins ahead of Paris Olympics when she spearheads India's campaign in the Malaysia Masters badminton tournament starting here on Tuesday.
&nbsp;
Sindhu, a former world champion, returns to the international circuit after skipping the Uber Cup and Thailand Open, and she will aim to go deep in the women's singles draw of the BWF World Tour Super 500 event.
&nbsp;
The 28-year-old from Hyderabad hasn't been able to hit top form after recovering from a knee injury sustained in October last year.
&nbsp;
A silver and bronze-winner at the Olympics, Sindhu's return hasn't been smooth and she has endured a series of narrow losses. Sindhu has just two quarterfinal finishes to show in her six competitive appearances so far.
&nbsp;
The last title win for her came in the 2022 Singapore Open though she did come close to claiming the Spain Masters last year when she reached the finals in Madrid.
&nbsp;
Sindhu, who had also suffered a stress fracture on her left ankle en route to the 2022 Commonwealth Games gold, will look to hit the ground running when she opens against Scotland's Kirsty Gilmour this week.
&nbsp;
Top stars such as An Se Young, Chen Yu Fei, Akane Yamaguchi and Carolina Marin are not participating this week and Sindhu will be desperate to test her preparation against the next-generation players, who have troubled her recently.
&nbsp;
With a new set-up under mentor Prakash Padukone, Sindhu has shown glimpses of her menacing game but she hasn't been consistent with her shot selection.
&nbsp;
Ashmita Chaliha, Aakarshi Kashyap and Malvika Bansod too will look to produce some good results after having been in the circuit for quite some time now.
Chaliha has played some quality matches against the likes of Han Yue and Aya Ohori, both of whom she had pushed to three games recently.
&nbsp;

Kuala Lumpur

Focus on Sindhu as she looks to end title drought at Malaysia Masters

A 62-year-old man, Akhtar Hussain, died of a suspected cardiac arrest outside a polling booth in Jharkhand's Ramgarh district on Monday, according to officials.
&nbsp;
The incident occurred outside booth 193 at the Government Upgraded High School in Bhuchungdih village, Chitarpur block, within the Hazaribag Lok Sabha constituency.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Hussain collapsed on the road and was pronounced dead at the scene.
&nbsp;
"A detailed report has been requested from local authorities," stated Deputy Commissioner Chandan Kumar.
&nbsp;
BDO Gyan Shankar Ekka confirmed the death, noting that Hussain lived about 500 meters from the polling booth. "He died of a possible cardiac arrest," Ekka said.
&nbsp;
Md Mustaque Ahmed, the deceased&rsquo;s son, recounted, "My father wanted to vote early in the morning and arrived at the polling booth at 6:30 am. He was asked to stand in the queue but collapsed soon after."
&nbsp;
Booth Level Officer Shanti Devi mentioned that two elderly individuals had reached the booth before polling commenced and were asked to wait until the polling officially started.
&nbsp;
P. Parmeshwar Karmali, the presiding officer of the booth, confirmed that Hussain's death occurred outside the polling station.
&nbsp;
Md Imran Ansari, a family member, criticised the lack of medical facilities at the polling station, highlighting the absence of immediate medical assistance.
&nbsp;
Hussain is survived by eight sons and a daughter, adding to the grief of the family who mourn the sudden loss of their patriarch.

Jharkhand man suffers cardiac arrest at polling station

Discipline defined him both as a player and coach. So, it was hardly a surprise that Pullela Gopichand stressed the virtue as he delivered a motivational speech to youngsters preparing for competitive exams here, drawing sporting analogies to drive home his point.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The 50-year-old former All-England champion,&nbsp;who is&nbsp;also a Droncharya awardee, was addressing a gathering of students preparing for competitive exams in streams such as engineering and medicine.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"Be it sports or&nbsp;education&nbsp;both are the same. In both, discipline as well as dedication is necessary.&nbsp;With time, another need has&nbsp;been added&nbsp;to both these fields&nbsp;and&nbsp;that is mentoring," Indian badminton's chief national coach said.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"Only when there is training&nbsp;along with&nbsp;teaching, a student becomes capable of competing in the present times. Similarly, in sports&nbsp;also, if coaching becomes good along with discipline and dedication, then the player moves ahead," he added at an event held at the Allen Career Institute here.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The Hyderabadi,&nbsp;who&nbsp;is&nbsp;credited&nbsp;for shaping Olympic medallists Saina Nehwal and P V Sindu&nbsp;among&nbsp;others, said he foresees a bright future for youngsters growing up in cities like Patna.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"One-sided results cannot always be expected&nbsp;in sports. Sometimes&nbsp;you&nbsp;may be the best with your best performance&nbsp;and&nbsp;sometimes&nbsp;the player in front of you may be better, but&nbsp;this does not mean&nbsp;that we&nbsp;should stop working hard.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"Even in studies, if the results are not as&nbsp;per&nbsp;expectations&nbsp;then we should not stop. Try to learn&nbsp;more,&nbsp;and&nbsp;solve problems, your&nbsp;hard work will never go in vain, one&nbsp;day&nbsp;you&nbsp;will be able to fulfill your dream," he told the gathered students.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"Cities like Kota and Patna are modern-day Gurukuls of India&nbsp;nurturing&nbsp;dreamers with potential like you into world champions in&nbsp;the field of&nbsp;engineering, medicine, and beyond. It takes a good coach to know when he sees a world champion," he added.&nbsp;

Discipline required in both sports & education: Gopichand

American tycoon Elon Musk believes that solar power plants could be a key solution to the global water crisis.
&nbsp;
While further research is needed, the CEO of SpaceX and Tesla argued that solar farms have the potential to significantly contribute to renewable energy, making the desalination process cheaper and more effective in providing clean water.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
"The cost of solar power and the batteries to store the energy has dropped dramatically over the years." <a href="https://t.co/Qis8uF7Klr">pic.twitter.com/Qis8uF7Klr</a>
&mdash; DogeDesigner (@cb_doge) <a href="https://twitter.com/cb_doge/status/1792475275827319294?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
&ldquo;We are making continuous breakthroughs in desalination efficiency, and I think we have a promising future ahead with great water sustainability and renewable energy,&rdquo; Musk stated during his speech at the 10th World Water Forum 2024 in Nusa Dua, Badung, Bali, on Monday, May 20.
&nbsp;
Desalination, the process of removing salt from water to make it suitable for human consumption, has traditionally been energy-intensive and costly.
&nbsp;
However, Musk emphasized that with the use of solar energy, it can be made both effective and affordable.
&nbsp;
Musk pointed out that the cost of batteries for energy storage has plummeted by a factor of 10 in the last five years, and solar farms could generate about a gigawatt (GW) of power per square kilometer (km).
&nbsp;
&ldquo;Of course, the sun doesn&rsquo;t shine all the time, but on average, a square kilometer of solar panels can produce roughly one gigawatt per day, which is substantial,&rdquo; he noted.
&nbsp;
He also mentioned that harnessing some of the solar heat from the Sahara could potentially generate enough electricity for all of Europe. While the vast potential of solar energy is often underestimated, Musk asserted that the calculations are straightforward and promising.
&nbsp;
Thus, utilizing solar energy could be a vital solution for providing clean water worldwide.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;Desalination has become very affordable. The real challenge now lies in energy and water transportation,&rdquo; Musk said.

Elon Musk: Sahara's solar potential can power Europe, aid water crisis

While Indore saw the biggest decrease in turnout as compared to 2019, Andhra Pradesh voters set the record with 81% polling&nbsp;
&nbsp;
There is no democracy without an electorate. However, there is no democracy either if the electorate does not turn up to vote &mdash; in large, absolute and impressive numbers.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The initial low voter turnout in the first three phases of elections as compared to 2019 has triggered a debate on the possible reasons, and speculations on the prospects of political parties and has kept the stock markets on the edge lately.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
On May 16, the Election Commission updated on its official page that the voter turnout in the fourth phase of polling was 69.16% for 96 Parliamentary constituencies.&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Further throwing in statistics to back its statement, the EC said that 45.10 crore of the nearly 97 crore electors had voted so far in the ongoing electoral exercise.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The cumulative turnout in the first four phases of the Lok Sabha elections has so far been recorded at 66.95%, the EC further informed.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The low voter turnout, especially in Uttar Pradesh, despite the calls by the Election Commission, celebrities, local politicos and young first-time voters all eagerly putting pictures of inked fingers on social media urging and nudging electorates to come out and vote in large numbers clearly didn&rsquo;t work the way it should have. Barring a few constituencies.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Comparing the voter turnout with 2019
&nbsp;
Even though the absolute numbers make comparison a little difficult and irrelevant, but according to the data released by EC, in five states (Bihar, Jharkhand, MP, UP, and West Bengal) the voter turnout decreased compared to the turnout in the corresponding seats in 2019. However, J&amp;K played the silver lining as the one seat that went to polls on May 12 saw a 24% points increase in turnout from 14.39% in 2019 to 38.49%. Thereby taking the overall voter turnout in the fourth phase of the Lok Sabha Polls in 96 constituencies to 69.16 %. Notably, this is the first Lok Sabha polls after the erstwhile state was split into two UTs.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;The data also said that the turnout increased in five of the states &amp; UTs&mdash; Andhra Pradesh, J&amp;K, Maharashtra, Odisha and Telangana in phase four. However, in five states (Bihar, Jharkhand, MP, UP, and West Bengal) the turnout decreased compared to the turnout in the corresponding seats in 2019.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Andhra Pradesh saves the day
&nbsp;
Talk of a city that turned up in full swing to vote and Andhra Pradesh set a nationwide record for the highest voter turnout in the four phases of elections. With the final vote percentage at 81.66%, the turnout has been 2.12 per cent higher than the 2019 figure in the state. In the meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh&rsquo;s Indore constituency, where the Congress had urged the voters to press the NOTA button, registered the biggest decrease in turnout, over 7.5 percentage points lower as compared to 2019.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The reasons for low turnout
&nbsp;
More importantly, does low voter turnout spell doomsday for the economy and markets? Analysts point out that high voter turnout in 2019 was an aberration rather than a norm. It should definitely not be the barometer for comparison. In 2019, following the incident at Pulwama, a pro-incumbency wave hit the nation wherein they all feared political instability and territorial insecurity. Giving insight into the electorate&rsquo;s minds, voter turnout not just reflects the level of voter consciousness but directly affects the functioning of the democracy, and how much trust do the citizens place in those running the race.
&nbsp;
The high voter turnout in Andhra Pradesh is being directly viewed as a correlation to the major issues in the state. A trend that has somewhat reflected since the last three elections.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The mismatch in data and voter turnout numbers&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;&nbsp;As the nation gears up for the fifth phase of elections, in the meanwhile, the Supreme Court has sought a response from the EC within a week over a plea application alleging a mismatch between the voting percentage data and voter turnout details (Form 17) during the first two phases of the Lok Sabha Polls. The matter is pending for hearing on May 24, which is before the sixth phase of voting. The application also sought direction that the ECI make available the absolute numbers of the voter turnout immediately after each phase of the polls.&nbsp;

Decoding the highs & lows of voter turnout

Partha Sarathi Mahanta&rsquo;s film Lachit the Warrior&nbsp;brought a significant chapter of Assamese history to the global stage at the 77th Cannes Film Festival, which began on May 14.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
This prestigious event, renowned for its diverse array of films from around the world, featured&nbsp;Lachit the Warrior&nbsp;in its Online Screening section on May 18.
&nbsp;
The film festival, known for its competition section, Un Certain Regard, and other categories, this year included several Indian films in the March&eacute; du Film and Online Screening sections.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Among the Indian films presented online were&nbsp;In Search of Sunshine&nbsp;(Kuch Alagsa) by Eon Films,&nbsp;Satyashodhak&nbsp;by Nilesh Jalamkar,&nbsp;Navras Katha Collage&nbsp;by Praveen Hingonia,&nbsp;Poyyamozhi&nbsp;by Anna Sudhi,&nbsp;Am I a Hero&nbsp;by Khatib Mohamed, and&nbsp;Lajja The Shame&nbsp;by Mohan Das.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
These films were collectively showcased as an anthology titled&nbsp;In Search of Sunshine,&nbsp;honoring&nbsp;their creators as the Cannes&nbsp;festival&nbsp;traditionally does not screen short films.
&nbsp;
Lachit the Warrior, written and directed by Partha Sarathi Mahanta, and produced by Mina Mahanta and Indrani Baruah, captivated the international audience with its compelling narrative of Lachit Barphukan, a 17th-century military commander celebrated for his exceptional skills in diplomacy, naval warfare, and unwavering patriotism.
&nbsp;
The film vividly recounts the historical events of the 17th century in Assam, where the Ahom kingdom endured a series of defeats against the Mughal forces in 1662, resulting in the loss of significant territories.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Determined to reclaim their land and&nbsp;honor, the Ahom king summoned Lachit Barphukan, renowned for his&nbsp;valor, to lead the army to victory.
&nbsp;
The narrative meticulously portrays the military campaigns led by Lachit, starting with the recapture of Guwahati from the Mughals in&nbsp;September-October&nbsp;1667.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The story progresses through intermittent skirmishes, the significant battle of Alaboi in 1669, and culminates in the decisive battle of Saraighat in 1671, where Lachit's strategic brilliance led to a monumental victory over the Mughals.
&nbsp;
The film emphasises Lachit Barphukan's crucial role in shaping the geographical and historical landscape of Assam, showcasing his heroism and strategic acumen.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
His efforts not only reclaimed lost territories but also fortified the spirit of patriotism among the Assamese people.
&nbsp;
The screening of&nbsp;Lachit the Warrior&nbsp;at Cannes 2024 has brought international recognition to this important chapter of Assamese history, allowing a global audience to appreciate the heroism and strategic prowess of Lachit Barphukan.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Guwahati

Assamese "Lachit the Warrior" makes waves at Cannes

Archaeologists in Assam have stumbled upon a treasure trove of ancient artefacts during an excavation at the Gupteswar Devalaya temple in Sonitpur district.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The ongoing dig, meticulously overseen by the state archaeology directorate, has unearthed a fascinating array of relics that shed light on the temple's rich history, predating even the Ahom era.
&nbsp;
Nestled in Singri village, the Gupteswar Devalaya has long been revered as a living temple.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
However, recent excavations have unveiled a hidden past beneath its current form.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Since February, a team of archaeologists led by Deepi Rekha Kouli, Director of Assam's Directorate of Archaeology, has been meticulously peeling back the layers of time.
&nbsp;
Their efforts have yielded a remarkable collection of finds. Pre-Ahom and Ahom-era bricks form the backbone of unearthed structures, hinting at the temple's evolution over centuries.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Stone floors and a multitude of potsherds painted a vivid picture of past practices.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
These fragments, adorned with intricate designs, cord impressions, and remnants of redware dishes, offer a glimpse into the lives of those who frequented this sacred space.
&nbsp;
<img src="https://api.newsarenaindia.com//uploads/assam-temple-treasuresjpg_1716198014727.jpg" width="1500" height="800">
&nbsp;
But the unearthed treasures extend beyond mere pottery.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The excavation unearthed an assortment of stone relics, including a temple plinth and both decorated and unadorned fallen remnants.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
An iron clamp and even remnants of charcoal hint at the tools and rituals employed throughout the temple's history.
&nbsp;
"The most significant aspect of this excavation is the occurrence of art and architectural elements from distinct&nbsp;time periods," explained Nabajit Deori, Deputy Director of Administration &amp; Monument at the Directorate.
&nbsp;
The recovered stonework spans a vast timeframe, encompassing the Salasthambha period (655-900 CE), the Pala period (9th-11th centuries), and finally culminating in the Ahom masonry style (1228-1826 CE).
&nbsp;
The meticulous team behind the excavation comprises not only Deori but also Chabina Hassan (deputy director, exploration &amp; excavation, events), Simran Sambhi (exploration officer), and Priyanka Patir (exploration officer).
&nbsp;
Their dedication is further bolstered by the expertise of Mousumi Mitra (archaeologist), Rumi Sarma (research assistant), Yang Jerang (research assistant), Hari Sing R Das (technical assistant), Rashmi Deori (junior technical assistant), and Bhargav Duarah (photographer).
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The architectural marvel of the temple itself has also come into sharper focus.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Researchers believe the temple, constructed during the Salasthambha dynasty's reign, boasts a magnificent pancharatha design, a unique style that incorporates both brick and stone.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The complex features an&nbsp;antarala, a transitional space leading to the inner sanctum, and a mandapa, a pillared hall, both constructed in the do-cala style.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
An intriguing detail is the presence of a brick boundary wall meticulously aligned in an east-west direction, further underlining the deliberate planning behind the temple's construction.
&nbsp;
The excavation has also revealed intriguing evidence of later additions.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
A cluster of modern bricks, strategically placed to support more recent construction, was discovered, interestingly aligned parallel to the ancient bricks beneath.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
This speaks to the temple's enduring significance and the ongoing efforts to preserve it throughout the centuries.
&nbsp;
Perhaps most fascinating is the revelation of an extended mandapa, a pillared hall, located in front of the existing brick-built structure from the Ahom period.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Adjacent to this extended hall lies a brick plinth adorned with a small stone&nbsp;pranala, a channel for discharging ritualistic water.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
A separate, offset stone plinth further adds to the intriguing layout of the complex.
&nbsp;
Deori emphasised the significance of these discoveries, stating, "The occurrence of art and architectural parts from different time frames is the most crucial aspect of the excavation."&nbsp;
&nbsp;
This sentiment is echoed by the ongoing efforts to meticulously document the&nbsp;finds.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The Directorate has collected a range of artefacts, including iron clamps, brick samples of varying sizes, and potsherds, for further analysis through carbon dating and OSL (optically stimulated luminescence) dating techniques.
&nbsp;
The culmination of this excavation at Gupteswar Devalaya promises to be a landmark event.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
As Deori aptly concluded, "We expect it to shed light on the archaeological wealth of the area in chronological order," offering a deeper understanding of Assam's rich past and the enduring legacy of the Gupteswar Devalaya temple.

Assam temple excavation unearths pre-Ahom era treasures

India will participate in all important summits that promote the agenda of global peace, security and development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said while referring to invitations to him to attend the G-7 meeting and the Ukraine peace summit next month.
&nbsp;
In an interview, the prime minister said India will "resonate the voice of the Global South" at these summits to shape the global discourse and advance the vision for human-centric development and a prosperous and peaceful world.
&nbsp;
"The level of participation will be the factor of timing, logistics and parallel commitments," Modi said in response to a question on whether he will be attending the two multilateral gatherings.
&nbsp;
Italy is hosting the G-7 Summit meeting from June 13-15, while the Ukraine peace summit will be held in Switzerland from June 15-16.
&nbsp;
Modi said the invitations extended to India to attend the summits were an acknowledgement of its significance and contribution to international affairs.
&nbsp;
"These reflect the robust global engagement that we have in keeping with our philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family)," the prime minister said.
&nbsp;
"India will be participating in all important summits that promote the agenda of global peace, security and development," Modi said.&nbsp;

Bhubaneswar

India to resonate voice of the Global South : PM Modi

The Iranian Embassy in New Delhi has lowered its flag to half-mast in mourning after a helicopter crash claimed the lives of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian, and other high-ranking officials.
&nbsp;
The fatal crash occurred on Sunday in the Dizmar forest, located between Varzaqan and Jolfa in East Azarbaijan Province.
&nbsp;
State media Press TV reported that the helicopter went down in poor weather conditions as President Raisi was returning from a visit to Azerbaijan.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic demise of Dr. Seyed Ebrahim Raisi, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. His contribution to strengthening India-Iran bilateral relationship will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family and the people of Iran.&hellip;
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1792418659803038064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on social media platform X, highlighting Raisi&rsquo;s contributions to strengthening India-Iran relations.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;Deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic demise of Dr. Seyed Ebrahim Raisi, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. His contribution to strengthening the India-Iran bilateral relationship will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family and the people of Iran. India stands with Iran in this time of sorrow,&rdquo; Modi tweeted.
&nbsp;
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also expressed his shock and sorrow over the deaths of President Raisi and Foreign Minister Abdollahian.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Deeply shocked to hear of the passing away of Iran&rsquo;s President Dr Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister H. Amir-Abdollahian in the helicopter crash. Recall my many meetings with them, most recently in January 2024. Our condolences to their families. We stand with the people of&hellip;
&mdash; Dr. S. Jaishankar (Modi Ka Parivar) (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1792419600551809268?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
He recalled his meetings with the two leaders earlier this year. &ldquo;Deeply shocked to hear of the passing away of Iran&rsquo;s President Dr Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister H. Amir-Abdollahian, in the helicopter crash. Recall my many meetings with them, most recently in January 2024. Our condolences to their families. We stand with the people of Iran at this time of tragedy,&rdquo; Jaishankar posted on X.
&nbsp;
In the wake of this tragic event, condolences have poured in from around the world.
&nbsp;
Former Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif Khansari also conveyed his sorrow, referring to the incident as "painful" and expressing his condolences on the &ldquo;martyrdom&rdquo; of his successor, Hossein Amirabdollahian, and President Raisi. Zarif, in a heartfelt post on Instagram, described Amirabdollahian as &ldquo;my dear brother.&rdquo;

Iranian embassy in New Delhi lowers flag after President Raisi's fatal helicopter crash

The Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) on Monday laid the foundation stone for indoor cricket training academies in six northeastern states, with the sole emphasis on helping budding cricketers from the region.
&nbsp;
The indoor cricket academies will serve players from Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Sikkim and will be based in Shillong, Itanagar, Kohima, Aizawl, Imphal and Gangtok.
&nbsp;
"Honoured to have laid the foundation stone for BCCI's upcoming state-of-the-art indoor training facilities in the North-East," Shah wrote on X, formerly Twitter.
&nbsp;
Earlier, cricketers from these states were required to travel to centres in Kolkata, Bengaluru, Chennai, Mumbai or Ahmedabad for training during the monsoon season. The BCCI had also created the North-East Cricket Development Committee, which is being headed by Avishek Dalmiya, the president of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB).
&nbsp;
"Our cricketers from six states -- Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Sikkim -- will soon benefit from world-class indoor nets, indoor swimming pools and fitness centres for year-round training options," Shah wrote.
&nbsp;
"This, along with the launch of the new pavilion in Mizoram, are big steps towards our vision to enhance cricket infrastructure in the region, exciting times ahead," he added.
&nbsp;
Meanwhile, the BCCI is already in the process of developing a new National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru with expanded area and facilities.

BCCI lays foundation for cricket academies in six NE states

The government fulfills the promises made in the Bharatiya Janata Party's&nbsp;manifesto,&nbsp;and&nbsp;cites Prime Minister&nbsp;Modi,&nbsp;as he indicates the implementation of the One Nation, One Election, and Uniform Civil Code plans if he returns to power.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The PM then added that he has added 25 more days to the 100-day plan for his next term to seek suggestions from the youth of the country on what they expect from the government immediately after coming back to power.
&nbsp;
Before the Lok Sabha polls were announced, the prime minister had asked all ministries to prepare a 100-day plan for the implementation of projects for the next government.
&nbsp;
"And now, I have added 25 more days to this plan, where I would take the suggestions of India&rsquo;s Yuva Shakti. What do they expect us to do the first thing after coming back to power? It is ultimately their expectations that I am here to fulfill and how they want the nation to develop," he said.
&nbsp;
Asked whether One Nation, One Election and a central law on UCC would be part of the 100-day exercise, PM Modi said these were part of the BJP's manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections and "one thing you would appreciate&nbsp;and&nbsp;that is we fulfill our manifesto promises".
&nbsp;
"If you had observed me and my working style, you would have known that this is not the first time&nbsp;that I&nbsp;have entered the election fray with the vision for the first 100 days of the new government. I have been practicing this since&nbsp;the time&nbsp;I was the chief minister of Gujarat," PM&nbsp;Modi said.
&nbsp;
He said he had a plan in mind even in 2014 and 2019&nbsp;and&nbsp;the government went into action mode the day it assumed office.
&nbsp;
"In 2019, in the first 100 days of our government, monumental steps such as abrogation of Article 370 happened&nbsp;and&nbsp;the law against triple talaq was passed," he said.
&nbsp;
"Similarly, this time&nbsp;too, we have already begun planning for the first 100 days of our third term. The plan, which will commence after June 4, would ensure timely and impactful decision-making," PM Modi said.
&nbsp;
"We are going to waste no time and jump straight into action.&nbsp;This is the speed at which our government works. We have always believed in forward-thinking and strategic planning," the prime minister said.&nbsp;

We will fulfill our manifesto promises: PM Modi

An impressive 48.41 per cent of the electorate exercised their voting rights by 1 PM across seven Lok Sabha constituencies in West Bengal during the fifth phase of polling on Monday, according to an Election Commission official.
&nbsp;
Among the constituencies, Arambag (SC) witnessed the highest voter turnout at 55.37 per cent. Uluberai followed closely with 52.79 per cent, while Hooghly recorded 50.50 per cent. 
&nbsp;
Sreerampur saw a 47.75 per cent turnout, Howrah 44.71 per cent, Bongaon (SC) 44.15 per cent, and Barrackpore 42.47 per cent.
&nbsp;
Polling, which commenced at 7 AM, is set to continue until 6 PM. The Chief Electoral Office (CEO) of West Bengal reported receiving 1,399 poll-related complaints by 1.15 PM.
&nbsp;
The electorate in these constituencies comprises 1,25,23,702 voters, including 63,51,320 men, 61,72,034 women, and 348 individuals identifying as third gender.
&nbsp;
Voting is taking place across 13,481 polling stations.
&nbsp;
Security measures have been stringent, with over 57 per cent of polling stations designated as sensitive. 
&nbsp;
The deployment for this phase includes more than 60,000 central force personnel, supported by approximately 30,000&nbsp;policemen. 
&nbsp;
This security detail is the most extensive seen in&nbsp;any of&nbsp;the state's previous four polling phases.
&nbsp;
Eighty-eight candidates&nbsp;are competing&nbsp;in this phase, with Bongaon hosting the highest number of contestants at 15.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Notably,&nbsp;Union Minister Shantanu Thakur is in a&nbsp;key&nbsp;battle against TMC's Biswajit Das in Bongaon.

West Bengal: 48% voter participation by 1 pm in LS polls

Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal &lsquo;Prachanda&rsquo; on Monday won a vote of confidence in Parliament, the fourth within 18 months of taking office, amidst sloganeering by the main Opposition Nepali Congress that abstained from the voting.
&nbsp;
Prachanda, 69, a former guerilla leader from the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre) -- the third largest party in the House of Representatives (HoR) -- received 157 votes in the 275-member House of Representatives.
&nbsp;
In total, 158 lawmakers took part in the voting. The main Opposition Nepali Congress boycotted the voting process and chanted slogans against Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane, accused of misappropriation of cooperative funds, leading to the delay in the session. One HoR member remained neutral.
&nbsp;
Speaker Dev Raj Ghimire announced that Prachanda had won the floor test as he got a majority in the Parliament.
&nbsp;
The vote comes days after one of the coalition partners, Janata Samajbadi Party (JSP), withdrew its support last week for his government while quitting the coalition government. &nbsp; The government required at least 138 votes to win the vote of trust. &nbsp;
&nbsp;
Earlier, the voting had to be delayed due to obstructions caused by the Nepali Congress, which has been demanding the formation of a Parliamentary probe committee to investigate Lamichhane&rsquo;s alleged involvement in the scam. &nbsp; This was the fourth time that Prachanda sought a vote of confidence in the House in less since he assumed prime ministership in December 2022.
&nbsp;
According to constitutional provisions, a prime minister has to take a vote of confidence after an ally withdraws support to the ruling coalition. &nbsp; Earlier on March 13, Prime Minister Dahal won his third consecutive vote of confidence.
&nbsp;
Last year, Prachanda faced a floor test after former prime minister KP Sharma Oli-led CPN-UML withdrew its support to the Prachanda-led government following a rift over backing the main opposition party&rsquo;s candidate for the presidential poll.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Kathmandu

Nepal PM Prachanda wins vote of confidence in Parliament

Scattered incidents of violence marred the fifth phase of Lok Sabha polls in seven parliamentary constituencies in West Bengal on Monday, as Trinamool Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party workers clashed in various parts of Barrackpore, Bongaon, and Arambagh seats.
&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Although the poll panel has claimed that the polling has been peaceful so far, it said it has received 1,036 complaints until 11 am from different political parties alleging EVM malfunctioning and agents being stopped from entering booths.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Clashes broke out between supporters of TMC and BJP in Khanakul area of Arambagh constituency as both parties clashed over stopping polling agents from entering the booths.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Two live crude bombs were also recovered from the area by security personnel.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&ldquo;BJP goons have unleashed a reign of terror in the area and are intimidating voters,&rdquo; TMC candidate Mitali Bag said.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">BJP candidate Arup Kanti Digar, on the other hand, rubbished the allegations and blamed the TMC for letting loose violence on the day of the polls.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">In neighbouring Hooghly constituency, BJP sitting MP and party candidate Locket Chatterjee faced protests from TMC activists led by TMC MLA Asima Patra.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">As Chatterjee was on her way to a booth, TMC activists staged protests and shouted &ldquo;Chor Chor (thief thief) slogans&rdquo;.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Following which, the BJP MP got down from her car and shouted counter slogans.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Sporadic incidents of violence were reported from various parts of Howrah constituency.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">In the Liluah area of Howrah, the BJP accused TMC workers of booth jamming leading to clashes between both groups.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">In Bongaon constituency&rsquo;s Gayeshpur area, local BJP leader Subir Biswas was allegedly beaten by TMC goons outside a booth. He was later shifted to hospital.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">In the Kalyani area of the same constituency, Union Minister and BJP candidate Shantanu Thakur caught a person using the identity card of his rival TMC candidate Biswajit Das inside a polling booth.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">While central forces rushed to every place to disberse the mob, TMC workers staged protest in some places alleging central forces were assisting BJP workers in intimidating voters at some booths of Hooghly.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Voting is underway in Arambagh, Uluberia, Hooghly, Howrah, Bongaon, Srerampore, and Barrackpore Lok Sabha constituencies.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Out of these, five were won by the TMC and two were won by the BJP in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. 
&nbsp;

Violence mars Phase 5 of LS polls in West Bengal

As the curtains drew close on the final phase of the general elections in Maharashtra, voter turnout stood at a modest 15.93 per cent by 11 am on Monday, according to poll authorities.
&nbsp;
Thirteen Lok Sabha constituencies were up for grabs in the state, with varying levels of participation observed across regions.
&nbsp;
Among the constituencies, Bhiwandi saw a turnout of 14.79 per cent, while Dhule recorded 17.38 per cent. Dindori led the pack with 19.50 per cent, while Kalyan trailed at 11.46 per cent.
&nbsp;
The bustling metropolis of Mumbai witnessed mixed participation, with Mumbai North recording 14.71 per cent, Mumbai South lagging at 12.75 per cent, and Mumbai North West showing a promising 17.53 per cent.
&nbsp;
Read more: <a href="https://newsarenaindia.com/west/bollywood-icons-lead-by-example-on-voting-day-in-maharashtra/11543">Bollywood icons lead by example on voting day in Maharashtra (newsarenaindia.com)</a>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Maharashtra's final election phase witnesses 15.93% turnout: Key figures cast votes

Rouf Ahmad Lone, whose brother Umar Lone, a wanted Lashkar militant, is linked to several terror-related incidents in the Valley, exercised his right to vote in North Kashmir&rsquo;s Pattan area of Baramulla district on Monday.
 While casting his vote, Rouf Ahmed Lone appealed to Umar Lone to come forward and surrender for the sake of his family, his safety and welfare and for peace in the Valley.
&nbsp;
Talking to reporters, Rouf Ahmed Lone said, "Voting is my right, so I cast my vote. I appeal to everybody to cast their vote, as developmental work will take place after that."
&nbsp;
"Come to the polling booths and don&rsquo;t waste your vote," he added.
&nbsp;
Rouf Ahmed Lone raised his inked finger and asked his brother to give up arms and return to his family.
&nbsp;
"I appeal to my brother Umar to surrender (before security forces). If he does so, it will be much better; he will return to his mother and family," Lone said.
&nbsp;
In April this year, Umar&rsquo;s mother also appealed to him to return to the family and surrender before the security forces for the sake of his family.
&nbsp;
Meanwhile, the Baramulla LS constituency &nbsp;recorded 21.56 % voting till 11 a.m.
&nbsp;
Omar Abdullah of National Conference, &nbsp;Sajad Lone of People&rsquo;s Conference, and &lsquo;Engineer&rsquo; &nbsp;Rasheed of Awami Ittehad Party have urged people to vote in large numbers.
&nbsp;
People are responding as the voter turnout looks all set to cross the recently recorded 38% in the Srinagar LS polls on May 13.
&nbsp;

Militant’s brother votes in J&K's Baramulla, asks sibling  to surrender

A voter turnout of 32.70% was recorded by 11 am across seven constituencies in the fifth phase of Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal.
&nbsp;
Arambag (SC) witnessed the highest polling at 36.21%, followed by Uluberia at 33.98%, and Hooghly at 33.78%.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Bangaon (SC) recorded 31.81%, while Sreerampur and Howrah registered 31.74% and 30.89% respectively. Barrackpore trailed at 29.99%.
&nbsp;
Polling commenced at 7 am and will continue until 6 pm. The Chief Electoral Office (CEO) of West Bengal received 1,053 poll-related complaints by 11 am.
&nbsp;
With 1,25,23,702 eligible voters across 13,481 polling stations, including 63,51,320 men, 61,72,034 women, and 348 individuals from the third gender, the election witnessed significant participation.
&nbsp;
Security measures were robust, with over 57% of polling stations identified as sensitive and a deployment of more than 60,000 central force personnel, in addition to around 30,000 policemen.
&nbsp;
This phase saw 88 candidates vying for victory, with Bongaon having the highest number of 15 nominees. Notably, Union Minister Shantanu Thakur contested against TMC's Biswajit Das in Bongaon.

Over 32.70% voter turnout by 11 am in West Bengal

Around 21.11 per cent of over 95.11 lakh voters in five Lok Sabha constituencies in Bihar voted till 11 am on Monday, officials said.
&nbsp;
The polling began at 7 am in Muzaffarpur, Madhubani, Sitamarhi, Saran and Hajipur Lok Sabha constituencies and will continue till 6 pm, a senior official at the CEO's office said.
&nbsp;
Over 95 lakh voters in these five seats will decide the fate of 80 candidates at 9,436 polling stations, PTI reported
.
Over 22.70 per cent of voters exercised their franchise in Sitamarhi, 22.45 per cent in Muzaffarpur, 22.37 per cent in Madhubani, 20.75 per cent in Saran and 17.36 per cent in Hajipur till 11 am.
&nbsp;
Of the total voters, 45.11 lakh are women, 21 lakh are under 29 years of age and 1.26 lakh are in the age group of 18-19 years.
&nbsp;
Notable contestants include NDA ally Chirag Paswan in Hajipur, Lalu Prasad's daughter Rohini Acharya, who is pitted against two-term sitting BJP MP and former Union minister Rajiv Pratap Rudy in Saran, and Muzaffarpur's sitting MP Ajay Nishad, who crossed over to the Congress after being denied a BJP ticket for a third term.
&nbsp;
Sudhir Kumar Ojha, an advocate who remains in the news for his petitions against top political figures, Bollywood stars and even foreign heads of state, is contesting from Muzaffarpur.

21.11 per cent voter turnout in five Lok Sabha constituencies of Bihar till 11 am

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has hailed the signing of a 10-year agreement to operate Iran's strategic Chabahar port as a "significant milestone."&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The deal, inked on May 13th, is seen as a game-changer for regional connectivity, bypassing Pakistan and offering a vital trade route to landlocked Afghanistan and Central Asia.
&nbsp;
"This is not just about a port, this is about promoting regional connectivity, trade and commerce," asserted Modi during an interview.&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
He outlined India's vision of leveraging Chabahar alongside other initiatives like the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.
&nbsp;
The INSTC, a 7,200-kilometer network of sea, rail, and road routes, offers an alternative to the Suez Canal for transporting goods from India to Russia via Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
This strategic partnership with Iran unlocks access to the Caspian Sea and ultimately connects India with North Europe through Russia.
&nbsp;
"Connectivity is paramount in today's globalised world," Modi stated.&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
He highlighted the keen interest of Central Asian leaders in utilising Chabahar for maritime access and trade links with India.
&nbsp;
The agreement, signed between India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) and Iran's Port &amp; Maritime Organisation, marks a significant shift from previous one-year renewals.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
IPGL will invest roughly $120 million in developing the port, with an additional $250 million secured through debt financing.
&nbsp;
This long-term commitment strengthens India's presence in the region. Chabahar has already proven its worth, having facilitated the dispatch of 20,000 tonnes of wheat aid to Afghanistan in 2023 and eco-friendly pesticides to Iran in 2021.
&nbsp;
The Modi government has prioritised Chabahar since coming to power in 2014. A trilateral agreement with Iran and Afghanistan in 2016 laid the groundwork for this crucial connectivity project.
&nbsp;
The Chabahar deal is a strategic win for India, fostering stronger ties with Iran and Afghanistan while establishing a vital trade route that bypasses Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

PM Modi hails Chabahar Port Deal as gateway to central Asia

Jharkhand and Odisha are witnessing notable voter engagement as polling began in earnest on Monday, with significant turnout figures reported by 11 am.
&nbsp;
In Jharkhand, where polling started at 7 am across Chatra, Hazaribag, and Koderma Lok Sabha seats, a voter turnout of nearly 26.18% was recorded, indicating a robust early participation in the second phase of elections.
&nbsp;
Simultaneously, Odisha reported a commendable 21% voter turnout by the same time.
&nbsp;
Jharkhand's Chatra constituency registered a turnout of 26.01%, Hazaribag at 25.45%, and Koderma at 26.95%.
&nbsp;
This phase of elections in Jharkhand features 22 candidates contesting from Chatra, 15 from Koderma, and 17 from Hazaribag.
&nbsp;
Approximately 58.34 lakh voters, including 28.35 lakh women, are eligible to cast their ballots in these constituencies, underscoring the significance of voter participation in shaping electoral outcomes.
&nbsp;
Chief Electoral Officer K Ravi Kumar highlighted the extensive coverage across seven districts, with 6,705 booths established, including special provisions for women, persons with disabilities, and youths.
&nbsp;
Meanwhile, CEO Odisha, N B Dhal, reported peaceful polling with no untoward incidents till 11 am, reinforcing the smooth conduct of the electoral process.
&nbsp;
Despite minor technical glitches, as indicated by the replacement of 70 ballot units, 89 control units, and 167 VVPATs, voter turnout remained encouraging.
&nbsp;
"Polling is underway for five Lok Sabha constituencies and 35 Assembly segments, approximately 21.07% of the over 79.69 lakh voters have cast their ballots," Dhal said.

Voter turnout: Jharkhand hits 26.18%, Odisha at 21% by 11 am

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reacted to the death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash in Iran's East Azerbaijan province in Sunday.
&nbsp;
"Deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic demise of Dr. Seyed Ebrahim Raisi, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. His contribution to strengthening India-Iran bilateral relationship will always be remembered," PM Modi posted on X.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"My heartfelt condolences to his family and the people of Iran. India stands with Iran in this time of sorrow," he added.
&nbsp;
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi was killed in a helicopter crash with Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and seven others on Sunday. Raisi was 63, Iranian news agencies reported.
&nbsp;
Agencies also reported that "no survivors were foun
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d" at the crash site as Red Crescent rescuers showed drone footage of the wrecked aircraft.

Saddened and shocked by President Raisi's tragic demise: PM Modi

Voters in Ladakh are casting their vote for the first time in Union territory since the repeal of Article 370 on August 5, 2019.
&nbsp;
Ladakh has been in the news recently for demonstrations against the union government's demand for sixth-schedule status, statehood, reservation of jobs, land, and separate statehood.
&nbsp;
Amid unfulfilled demands, Ladakh is voting today in the fifth phase of the parliamentary elections.
&nbsp;
The Ladakh Lok Sabha seat has 1.84 lakh voters in two districts: Leh and Kargil.
&nbsp;
The Election Commission has established 577 voting stations in the constituency, including 298 in Leh district and 279 in Kargil district.
&nbsp;
Ladakh&rsquo;s Hanle (Anle) Phu polling station in Leh district is 15,000 feet above sea level, making it the world's second-highest voting station. Warshi polling station is the final settlement in the Nubra region of Leh district, barely 20 kilometres from the Siachen Glacier base camp.
&nbsp;
Interestingly, this polling station is set up for just five people belonging to one family.
&nbsp;
The IAF flew election officials, electronic voting machines, and security personnel to Jinchan and Dipling polling stations in Leh, as well as Phema, Ralakun, and Shadey polling stations in Kargil district.
&nbsp;
Of the 1.84 lakh voters, 95,926 live in Kargil and 88,877 in Leh. There are 1,127 disabled voters and 1,570 senior voters. The district of Leh is mostly Buddhist, whereas Kargil is predominantly Shia Muslim.
&nbsp;
Three candidates are running: Tashi Gyalson of the BJP, Tsering Namgyal of the Congress, and Haji Hanifa Jan, an independent candidate sponsored by rebels from the National Conference (NC) and the Congress.
&nbsp;
According to the terms of the INDIA bloc alliance, the NC had ceded Ladakh's seat to the Congress, but a mutiny among the local NC and the Congress has rendered the INDIA bloc alliance pact ineffective in this constituency.
&nbsp;
The BJP won this seat in 2014 and 2019. This time, it is expected that the lone Muslim candidate from the Kargil district will have an advantage over the Congress and BJP candidates.
&nbsp;
This seat is poised for a hot-headed contest, as the inclusion of Haji Hanifa Jan has complicated the stakes for both Congress and the BJP.

Ladakh records 27.87% voter turnout by 11 am

The Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) has announced the closure of equity markets on Monday, May 20, 2024, owing to the elections in Mumbai.
&nbsp;
This closure will affect all segments, including the equity segment, derivative segment, and Securities Lending and Borrowing (SLB) segment.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Additionally, the Multi-Commodity Exchange (MCX) will be closed for the morning session but will reopen for the evening session.
&nbsp;
The closure is in line with the BSE market holiday calendar, which aligns with the Lok Sabha polls in Mumbai. As a result, all trading activities across the equity, derivative, and SLB segments will remain suspended for the day.
&nbsp;
Apart from the Mumbai Elections on May 20, 2024, the market will observe closure on several other occasions throughout the year, including "Bakri Id (June 17), Muharram (July 17), Independence Day (August 15), Mahatma Gandhi (October 2), Diwali (November 1), Gurunanak Jayanti (November 15), and Christmas (December 25)." Any modifications to these holidays will be communicated through a separate circular issued in advance.
&nbsp;
On Saturday, Indian equities underwent two special sessions to test system responsiveness in case of unexpected events.
&nbsp;
The sessions were conducted from 9:15 a.m. to 10 a.m. (0345-0430 GMT) at a primary site and from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (0600-0700 GMT) at a disaster recovery site.'
&nbsp;

BSE announces market shutdown amid Mumbai polls on May 20

As voting proceeded in 13 Lok Sabha constituencies in Maharashtra, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray reported numerous complaints from voters about the facilities outside the polling booths on Monday.
&nbsp;
Former state minister Thackeray noted that voters, trying to beat the heat while turning out in large numbers, should at least have shaded queues and fans.
&nbsp;
Polling began at 7 am in the 13 constituencies, including six in Mumbai, and will continue until 6 pm.
&nbsp;
"A lot of complaints from voters about the facilities outside the booths @ECISVEEP. At least having the voter lines in shade/fans could help. They don't want much, just basics to stay cool. Please look into it," Thackeray posted on X.
&nbsp;
Some voters in Mumbai mentioned arriving at the polling booths early to avoid the heat.
&nbsp;
A total of 2.46 crore people are eligible to vote, deciding the fate of 264 candidates in these 13 Lok Sabha seats.
&nbsp;
Key BJP nominees include Union ministers Piyush Goyal, Bharati Pawar, and Kapil Patil, alongside lawyer Ujjwal Nikam.
&nbsp;
Shiv Sena&rsquo;s Shrikant Shinde and Mumbai Congress chief Varsha Gaikwad are also contenders.
&nbsp;

Aaditya Thackeray highlights voter complaints about polling booth facilities

Days after snubbing him for questioning the trustworthiness of Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday heaped praise on West Bengal Congress chief Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, lauding him as a &ldquo;combative soldier&rdquo; of the party.
&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Kharge had snubbed Chowdhury, five-time Lok Sabha MP from Bahrampur, last week for his remarks that Banerjee cannot be trusted and that she might go with the Bharatiya Janata Party.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Asked if the Congress was making the same mistake with Chowdhury as it had made with Banerjee in 1998 when she had quit the party to form her own protesting its coyness in the face of Left &ldquo;atrocities&rdquo; on party cadres in Bengal, Kharge told the media, &ldquo;I do not want to speak about an individual. He is a combative soldier of the Congress party and is our leader in West Bengal&rdquo;.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Kharge said some TMC leaders were now trying to rake up the issue of the Congress alliance with the Left but that will not help.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&ldquo;They are trying to present it differently. But it will not happen like this as the Congress party is strong and understands each other.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">What has happened in West Bengal is that the Congress high command has taken a decision to have a coalition with the Left and we are moving forward with that,&rdquo; Kharge said.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">On Saturday, Kharge had dismissed Chowdhury&rsquo;s criticism of Banerjee while addressing a joint press conference with Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray and NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar in Mumbai.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&ldquo;Mamata Banerjee is with the alliance. She has recently said that she will join the government. Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury will not take the decision. The decision will be taken by me and the high command and those who don&rsquo;t agree will go out,&rdquo; Kharge had said in remarks that riled Chowdhury&rsquo;s supporters in Bengal.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Chowdhury, while reacting to Kharge&rsquo;s comments, had said, &ldquo;I cannot speak in favour of someone who wants to finish me and our party in Bengal politically. This is a battle for every Congress worker. I have spoken on their behalf. I don&rsquo;t want the state Congress to be used for her (Banerjee&rsquo;s) personal agenda and then finish the organisation&rdquo;.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">After Kharge&rsquo;s remarks, several posters and hoardings of the Congress president were defaced with ink in front of the party&rsquo;s state headquarters in Kolkata on Sunday.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Chowdhury had expressed displeasure over the incident and asked party workers to lodge a police complaint.
<p class="MsoNormal" style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;

Kharge & Adhir at loggerheads over Mamata’s support to INDI Alliance?

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi was killed in a helicopter crash with Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and seven others on Sunday. Raisi was 63, Iranian news agencies have reported.
&nbsp;
Agencies also reported that "no survivors were found" at the crash site as Red Crescent rescuers showed drone footage of the wrecked aircraft.
&nbsp;
International news reports said the President was likely to have been flying in a Bell 212 copter which came into service in the 60s. Servicing and maintenance of aircraft have been hit because of lack of spare parts due to restrictions imposed on Iran by the US and other countries.
&nbsp;
When the helicopter was found "there was no sign of the helicopter passengers being alive as of yet," state TV said.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Urging people to remain calm in a televised address, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei assured that there would be no disruption in the country's governance.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Raisi, the most powerful man in Iran after Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khomeini, has died at a time when situation is grim in the Middle East, with the Israel-Hamas war showing no sign of stopping in Gaza.
&nbsp;
Israel also launched a strike on Iran's diplomatic annexe in Damascus, was countered by Iran in a drone and missile attack. &nbsp;
&nbsp;
Raisi, considered to be a hardliner, was chief justice earlier, seeing repressive measures intensifying in the country as the youth protested against clerical rule.
&nbsp;
He became President after a virtually uncontested election in 2021.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Tehran

Iranian President , Foreign Minister, 7 others killed in copter crash

The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), the world's largest free trade agreement, is sending a powerful message in favor of open markets, fair competition, and rules-based trade.
&nbsp;
This comes at a time when protectionist tendencies and trade tensions threaten global economic stability, according to officials and experts at the fourth RCEP Media and Think Tank Forum held in Haikou, Hainan province.
&nbsp;
China, as the largest economy within the RCEP, is committed to working closely with other member countries to fully realize the benefits of the agreement, ensuring win-win cooperation for all, experts emphasized at the forum.
&nbsp;
The RCEP, which encompasses around 30% of the world's population, GDP, and goods trade, came into full effect in June last year among its 15 signatory countries, including China, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, and the 10 ASEAN member states.
&nbsp;
Hu Kaihong, a member of the Affairs Council of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, highlighted that the RCEP will unleash more economic vitality as member countries enhance connectivity and boost trade and investment.
&nbsp;
The agreement's provisions, such as tariff reductions, cumulative rules of origin, and streamlined customs procedures, have facilitated the continuous entry of high-quality products into the Chinese market. In 2023, trade between China and other RCEP members reached 12.6 trillion yuan ($1.7 trillion), accounting for 30.2% of China's total foreign trade, a 5.3% increase from 2021.
&nbsp;
Yin Libo, vice-governor of Hainan province, noted that the RCEP has provided much-needed stability in an uncertain global economy. Hainan aims to leverage the RCEP and its free trade port policies to create a base for Chinese companies entering international markets and a hub for foreign enterprises entering China.
&nbsp;
The RCEP is projected to drive an annual increase of $186 billion in global GDP by 2030, according to the Peterson Institute for International Economics. Chi Fulin, president of the China Institute for Reform and Development, called for improved awareness and utilization of RCEP rules among member enterprises to enhance regional market vitality.
&nbsp;
Shi Zhongjun, secretary-general of the ASEAN-China Center, highlighted the RCEP's potential to promote the free flow of production factors, optimize allocation, and spur innovation, advancing regional cooperation toward a more inclusive and mutually beneficial future.

Beijing

RCEP strengthens open markets amid global trade challenges

Manan Tandon

Nearly 11.68 per cent voter turnout was recorded till 9 am on Monday for the three Lok Sabha constituencies in Chatra, Hazaribag and Koderma, election officials have said.
&nbsp;
Chatra seat saw about 11.43 per cent voter turnout till 9 am while the same was at 12.04 per cent and 11.56 per cent in Hazaribag and Koderma seats, respectively.
&nbsp;
Voting started at 7 am in all three LS seats marking the second phase of elections in the eastern state, and will continue till 5 pm.
&nbsp;
Voting also began for the Gandey assembly by-poll in the state where Kalpana Murmu Soren, wife of former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, is contesting as the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) candidate.
&nbsp;
In this phase, 22 candidates are contesting from Chatra, 15 from Koderma, and 17 from Hazaribag.
&nbsp;
Approximately 58.34 lakh voters, including 28.35 lakh women, are eligible to exercise their franchise in these three constituencies.
&nbsp;
Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) K Ravi Kumar said this phase covers seven districts across three parliamentary constituencies, with polling materials and parties dispatched to 65 interior booths via choppers.
&nbsp;
Kumar noted that there are a total of 6,705 booths, including 6,130 in rural areas, with 73 booths managed by women, 13 by persons with disabilities, and 13 by youths.
&nbsp;
In the Chatra parliamentary constituency, there are 16.89 lakh voters, including 8.27 lakh female electors, with 1,899 booths. Koderma has 22.05 lakh electors, including 10.65 lakh women, with 2,552 booths, while Hazaribagh constituency has 19.39 lakh voters, including 9.42 lakh women, and 2,254 booths.

11.68 per cent voter turnout till 9 am in Jharkhand

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said he has never uttered a word against minorities, and the Bharatiya Janata Party has &ldquo;not just today but never&rdquo; acted against them. He, however, made it clear that he is not ready to accept anyone as &ldquo;special citizens&rdquo;.
&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">The comments in an interview to PTI Videos late Sunday is Modi&rsquo;s most unequivocal on minorities amid an outcry from the opposition that his election speeches are communally divisive and polarising.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">He also said the Congress has constantly violated the secular spirit of the Constitution, and that his campaign speeches are aimed at exposing the opposition parties&rsquo; bid to appease minorities with vote bank politics.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">In the interview, he was asked what he has to say about the apprehension among minorities because of his statements. &ldquo;I have not spoken a word against minorities. I am only talking against the vote bank politics of Congress. The grand old party is working against the Constitution, that&rsquo;s what I have been saying,&rdquo; he replied.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Modi said the makers of India&rsquo;s Constitution, including BR Ambedkar and Jawaharlal Nehru, had decided there will be no reservations on the basis of religion. &ldquo;Now you are turning away from that. It is my responsibility to expose them. At that time there were no members of my party in the Constituent Assembly. It was an assembly of eminent people from across the country.&rdquo;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
He was again asked if he has never meant to target the minorities in his election speeches, to which he said, &ldquo;BJP has never been against minorities. Not just today but never.&rdquo;
&nbsp;
He then added that the Congress follows the path of appeasement. &ldquo;I follow the path of satisfaction. (Woh log tushtikaran ke raastey pe chaltey hain, main santushtikaran ke raastey pe chalta hoon). Their politics is that of appeasement. My politics is that of &lsquo;sabka saath sabka vikas&rsquo;. We believe in &lsquo;sarva dharma sambhav&rsquo;. We want to take everyone along with us. We are not ready to accept anyone as special citizens but consider everyone equal,&rdquo; the prime minister said. 
&nbsp;

BJP never acted against minorities, says PM Modi

About 8% of voters have cast their votes in the Baramulla LS constituency polls today till 9. a.m., jailed leader Er. Rasheed's hometown witnessed the highest turnout at 10.18%, said officials.&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Polling in North Kashmir&rsquo;s Baramulla Lok Sabha constituency which includes segments of central Kashmir Budgam district began on Monday, former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Sajad Lone and Jailed leader Engineer Rasheed are in the fray for the seat.
&nbsp;
Amid anticipation of higher voter turnout, voting began at 7 am.&nbsp; People were seen lining up outside polling stations to exercise their right to vote in various segments of the constituency, said the officials.
&nbsp;
Following the delimitation exercise, the constituency is currently divided into 18 assembly segments in four districts, three from the north and one from the centre.
&nbsp;
Baramulla, Kupwara, and Bandipora assembly constituencies in the north and Budgam constituency from central Kashmir.
&nbsp;
Officials said voter turnout in the constituency will gradually grow as the day passes, and that improved numbers in Srinagar will undoubtedly strengthen voter confidence.
&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Omar Abdullah has urged voters to vote in large numbers, stating, "I appeal to the voters to come out and vote in large numbers to choose their representative who can enter the parliament of India to speak for them and against all the injustices heaped against us in recent years."
&nbsp;
One of the polling officials said people have gradually started to show up at the polling stations and the higher turnout is expected, the one that could surpass Srinagar&rsquo;s turnout of 38% recorded on May 13.
&nbsp;
Voting is scheduled to end at 6 pm.

7.63 % voter turnout recorded on high voltage Baramulla LS seat till 9 am

A voter turnout of 6.33% was recorded by 9 am on Monday across 13 Lok Sabha constituencies in Maharashtra, as the fifth and final phase of the state's general elections got underway, according to poll authorities.
&nbsp;
Among the constituencies, Bhiwandi saw 4.86% polling, Dhule 6.92%, Dindori 6.40%, Kalyan 5.39%, Mumbai North 6.19%, Mumbai North Central 6.01%, Mumbai North East 6.83%, Mumbai North West 6.87%, Mumbai South 5.34%, Mumbai South Central 7.79%, Nashik 6.45%, Palghar 7.95%, and Thane 5.67%.
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Speaking to reporters in Thane, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressed confidence that the Shiv Sena-BJP alliance would secure all 10 seats in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), which includes six seats in Mumbai, three in Thane district, and the Palghar seat.
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Polling stations in various parts of Mumbai experienced a steady turnout, with early voters such as Union Minister Piyush Goyal, industrialist Anil Ambani, and actor Akshay Kumar casting their ballots.
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Other prominent early voters included Tata Sons Chairman N. Chandrasekaran, Reserve Bank of India Governor Shaktikanta Das, former Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik, actors Janhvi Kapoor and Farhan Akhtar, and Marathi theatre actor Prashant Damle.
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Many voters lined up before the polling booths opened at 7 am, aiming to avoid the midday heat.
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In Thane city, some Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) malfunctioned but were swiftly repaired, according to district poll officials.
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In Mumbai's Vile Parle area, one voter shared, "I decided to vote early to avoid the heat," while another added, "I wanted to vote and then leave for work."&nbsp;
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Shiv Sena candidates, including Ravindra Waikar from Mumbai North West, Rahul Shewale from Mumbai South Central, and his Shiv Sena (UBT) rival Anil Desai, were among the early voters.
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BJP's Mihir Kotecha from Mumbai North East, Kapil Patil from Bhiwandi, and Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Arvind Sawant from Mumbai South also cast their votes early.
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Additionally, Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate from Nashik, Rajabhau Waje, exercised his franchise in the morning hours.

Maharashtra: Early voting sees 6.33% turnout across 13 constituencies

The fifth phase of polling in West Bengal witnessed an early surge in voter participation, with over 15.35% turnout recorded across seven Lok Sabha constituencies by 9 am, according to an Election Commission official.
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Uluberia parliamentary constituency led the turnout with 17.25%, followed by Arambag (SC) at 16.38%, Howrah (15.20%), Bangaon (SC) at 15.19%, Barrackpore (15.08%), Sreerampur (14.43%), and Hooghly (14.01%).
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Polling, which commenced at 7 am, will continue till 6 pm across the 13,481 designated polling stations. A total of 1,25,23,702 voters, including 63,51,320 men, 61,72,034 women, and 348 third-gender individuals, are eligible to cast their votes.
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The Election Commission has identified over 57% of polling stations as sensitive and deployed over 60,000 central forces personnel, along with 30,000 policemen, to ensure security.
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A total of 88 candidates are contesting in this phase, with Bongaon witnessing the highest number of contenders at 15, including Union Minister Shantanu Thakur, who faces TMC's Biswajit Das.
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This phase has seen the highest deployment of security forces compared to the earlier phases in the state.

West Bengal: 7 LS seats witness 15% turnout by 9 am in 5th phase polling

As Maharashtra heads to the polls today for the Lok Sabha elections, the city of Mumbai is abuzz with activity, particularly at polling stations where several prominent Bollywood personalities were seen casting their votes.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Lok Sabha Elections: Shahid Kapoor casts his vote in Mumbai Read <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ANI</a> Story | <a href="https://t.co/lumZu53szx">https://t.co/lumZu53szx</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/shahidkapoor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#shahidkapoor</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/loksabhaelections?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#loksabhaelections</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbai</a> <a href="https://t.co/n9QGur3711">pic.twitter.com/n9QGur3711</a>
&mdash; ANI Digital (@ani_digital) <a href="https://twitter.com/ani_digital/status/1792406362900840624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
Superstar Akshay Kumar was among the early voters who made his way to the polling booth. After casting his vote, he shared his thoughts on the importance of voting for the nation's future. "...I want my India to be developed and strong. I voted keeping that in mind. India should vote for what they deem is right... I think voter turnout will be good," he commented optimistically.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Actor Akshay Kumar shows the indelible ink mark on his finger after casting his vote at a polling booth in Mumbai. He says, "...I want my India to be developed and strong. I voted keeping that in mind. India should vote for what they deem is right...I think voter&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/mN9C9dlvRD">pic.twitter.com/mN9C9dlvRD</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1792375951126585360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Filmmaker Kunal Kohli casted his ballot at the Pali Hill polling station in Bandra West.&nbsp;Kohli made an earnest appeal to the public, urging them to exercise their right to vote. "I appeal to people to come out and vote. That's your right, and later on you don't have the right to complain if you don't vote. You must vote and enjoy the rest of the day," he stated.
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Actor Sanya Malhotra, fresh from casting her vote, proudly displayed the indelible ink mark on her finger, a symbol of her participation in the democratic process.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Actor Sanya Malhotra shows the indelible ink mark on her finger after casting her vote at a polling booth in Mumbai.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2024</a> <a href="https://t.co/ajbM69mtqJ">pic.twitter.com/ajbM69mtqJ</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1792389276996603947?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Bollywood actress Janhvi Kapoor also cast her vote at a polling station in Mumbai, emphasizing the importance of voter turnout. "Please come out and vote," she urged her fans and fellow citizens.
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The star-studded voter list continued with actor Rajkummar Rao, who showed off his inked finger after voting. Siblings Farhan Akhtar and director Zoya Akhtar also marked their participation, both displaying their inked fingers and posing for the cameras post-voting.
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Other Bollywood celebrities like Shahid Kapoor, Tabu, and Paresh Rawal also exercised their franchise, contributing to the festive and democratic spirit of the day.

Bollywood icons lead by example on voting day in Maharashtra

Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced his day with prayers at the revered Jagannath temple in Puri on Monday morning, followed by a vibrant roadshow to garner support for BJP candidates.
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The roadshow, led by PM Modi, traversed from Marichkote Square to Medical Square on Grand Road in Puri, drawing&nbsp;throngs&nbsp;of&nbsp;enthusiastic supporters.&nbsp; 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducts a roadshow in Puri, Odisha. Party's candidate from Puri Lok Sabha seat, Sambit Patra is with him.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2024</a> <a href="https://t.co/dDvhA88m18">pic.twitter.com/dDvhA88m18</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1792386623554122092?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Accompanying him were&nbsp;state BJP president Manmohan Samal, MP candidate Sambit Patra, and Puri MLA nominee Jayanta Sarangi.
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As thousands lined the barricaded stretch of Grand Road, waving the lotus symbol, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation and excitement.
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Elaborate security arrangements ensured the smooth conduct of the roadshow.
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Following the spirited display of public engagement, PM Modi departed via helicopter for Angul, where he&nbsp;is scheduled to address a public meeting.&nbsp;
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Subsequently, he will proceed to Cuttack for another poll rally before heading to West Bengal for a campaign event in Jhargram.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
PM Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>'s public programmes in Odisha and West Bengal on 20th May 2024. 📺 <a href="https://t.co/OaPd6HQTAv">https://t.co/OaPd6HQTAv</a> 📺<a href="https://t.co/vpP0MInUi4">https://t.co/vpP0MInUi4</a> 📺<a href="https://t.co/lcXkSnNPDn">https://t.co/lcXkSnNPDn</a> 📺<a href="https://t.co/4XQ2GzqK1N">https://t.co/4XQ2GzqK1N</a> <a href="https://t.co/oW7SnTgmTJ">pic.twitter.com/oW7SnTgmTJ</a>
&mdash; BJP (@BJP4India) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India/status/1792224625235054951?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, the second phase of polling for five Lok Sabha constituencies and 35 assembly seats in Odisha commenced under tight security measures&nbsp;on Monday.

Puri

PM Modi visits Jagannath temple, leads BJP roadshow in Puri

India may not have a Presidential system of government, yet the elections in India do centre around a leader and sometimes two. Right since 1998 the General Elections were personality centred. In 1998, 1999 and 2004, the elections centred around Atal Bihari Vajpayee.&nbsp;
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IN 2009, these were made into a direct contest between the then-incumbent Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and his BJP challenger Lal Kishen Advani. In 2014, 2019 and 2024, the General Elections centred around Narendra Modi.
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In 2014 and 2019, since there was no clear challenger to Modi, he had a clear and decisive advantage. &ldquo;Modi versus who?&rdquo; and there was actually no one. Even in 2024, although the opposition parties did manage to stitch together the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) they did not name any leader.&nbsp;
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They have not named anyone even till now. While earlier there were suggestions to project Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge as the Prime Ministerial candidate, these were shot down by the Congress party, which obviously did not want Rahul Gandhi to be overshadowed.&nbsp;
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The Congress eventually wants Rahul to become the Prime Minister, if the INDIA bloc wins the elections. It also wants Rahul to be seen as the challenger to Prime Minister Modi, without announcing it formally or directly. It is however apprehensive about the INDIA partners as to how some of them may react to it.
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There still are some potential claimants to the Prime Minister&rsquo;s position in case of a victory. But gradually Rahul appears to be making the ground on multiple counts, ahead of all others.
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Nitish Kumar, the perennial Prime Ministerial candidate of the opposition, has since parted ways with INDIA and returned to the BJP-led NDA. In fact, the idea of opposition unity, which matured and materialised into the INDIA bloc, was originally conceived by him with an ambition to, first be its leader and consequently become the Prime Minister.
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He could not manage to get himself named as the alliance leader that eventually led to his disillusionment and exit from it.&nbsp;
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After Nitish&rsquo;s exit, there were two more potential Prime Ministerial aspirants; the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.&nbsp;
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Banerjee has already distanced herself and her party Trinamool Congress from the INDIA bloc. She said she would be extending outside support to the INDIA government, which she feels, will come to power. Hence there is no question of her being the Prime Ministerial aspirant anymore.
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Another potentially strong claimant, Arvind Kejriwal is faced with legal problems. He is currently under interim bail and will have to go back to jail after the campaigning ends. He was granted interim bail by the Supreme Court for the election purpose only. Hence there is no question of his throwing his hat into the Prime Ministerial ring of aspirants.&nbsp;
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With no potential rival claimant for the leadership left anymore, the Congress has managed to gather the confidence to project Rahul as the only challenger to Modi, although it has been very subtle in doing so. The idea of suggesting a debate, which was conveyed through a &ldquo;group of intellectuals and journalists&rdquo; was obviously aimed at projecting Rahul as a par with Modi and raising his political stature.&nbsp;
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Rahul, no doubt is the only leader now left in the opposition alliance, who has been countering and attacking Modi so aggressively. Although Mamata Banerjee is equally stringent and critical of the BJP and Modi, she appears to have reconciled to the idea that she cannot be a potential Prime Ministerial candidate.&nbsp;
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This was the long-awaited moment for the Congress and the Gandhi family to project Rahul as a challenger to Prime Minister Modi. This is despite the potential risk involved in such a projection, as Modi&rsquo;s acceptability ratings are believed to be quite high as compared to Rahul&rsquo;s.
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At least, the Congress has almost cleared the initial ground, after overcoming many hurdles, for Rahul&rsquo;s leadership in case the INDIA bloc wins the elections.
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It may not have much difficulty in staking the claim for Rahul&rsquo;s Prime Ministership if the need be.
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The fight seems to have turned into Modi versus Rahul, finally.

Has the 2024 General Election turned into Modi versus Rahul, finally?

There was "no sign" of life at the site where a helicopter carrying Iran President Ebrahim Raisi crashed in East Azerbaijan province on Sunday, Iran state television reported on Monday.&nbsp;
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Iranian foreign minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian was also in the helicopter that crashed in a mountainous region amid bad weather conditions.
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When the helicopter was found "there was no sign of the helicopter passengers being alive as of yet," state TV said.&nbsp;
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Urging people to remain calm in a televised address, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei assured that there would be no disruption in the country's governance.&nbsp;
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 There was "no sign" of life at the site where a helicopter carrying Iran President Ebrahim Raisi crashed in East Azerbaijan province on Sunday, Iran state television reported on Monday.&nbsp;
Iranian foreign minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian was also in the helicopter that crashed in a mountainous region amid bad weather conditions.
There was "no sign" of life among passengers of the helicopter, Iran's state television said. When the helicopter was found "there was no sign of the helicopter passengers being alive as of yet," state TV said.&nbsp;
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Urging people to remain calm in a televised address, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei assured that there would be no disruption in the country's governance.&nbsp;
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Earlier a signal from the helicopter and a mobile phone of one crew member were detected at the crash site, according to reports from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander for East Azerbaijan province, where the crash occurred.
&nbsp; The crash site could not be located for approximately 10 hours after authorities lost contact with President Raisi&rsquo;s helicopter. The helicopter went down in dense fog in East Azerbaijan Province on Sunday afternoon, hindering search efforts during the day.
&nbsp; Low temperatures in the nearest city, Tabriz, were in the low 50s, but temperatures in the remote mountains where the crash occurred likely dipped closer to freezing, complicating rescue operations further. &nbsp;
In response, the European Union activated its rapid response mapping service to assist in locating the Iranian leader. The European Commissioner for Crisis Management announced the activation, which provides highly accurate and continuously updated information on human settlements and populations through the Global Human Settlement Layer (GHSL). &nbsp;
Additionally, Iran requested assistance from Turkey in the search for President Raisi&rsquo;s helicopter. Turkey's disaster and emergency management ministry has dispatched a night vision search and rescue helicopter, six vehicles, and 32 mountaineer search and rescue personnel.
 President Raisi was returning from a visit to Azerbaijan when the helicopter crashed in bad weather. On board were Iran&rsquo;s Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, Hojjatoleslam Al Hashem (head of the Friday prayer in Tabriz), Malek Rahmati (governor of East Azerbaijan province), and several others.

Iran President feared dead, 'no signs of life' reported at copter crash site

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Monday urged people to cast their ballot in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha polls, stressing that their vote will free the country from inflation, unemployment and economic crisis.
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<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Voting is being held in 49 constituencies in six states and two union territories in the fifth phase, which will decide the electoral fate of several prominent leaders like former Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Union ministers Rajnath Singh and Smriti Irani and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">In a post in Hindi on X, Priyanka Gandhi said, &ldquo;With your one vote, Rs 1 lakh will come into the account of a woman from every poor family annually, every citizen will get the facility of free treatment worth Rs 25 lakh, the youth will get 30 lakh government jobs, the youth will get apprenticeship worth (Rs) 1 lakh annually, and SC/ST/OBC will get proper participation. Your one vote will protect democracy and the Constitution of the country,&rdquo; the Congress general secretary said.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">She appealed to the people of the country to vote in maximum numbers.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&ldquo;Your one vote will free the country from inflation, unemployment and economic crisis and will strengthen the country,&rdquo; Priyanka Gandhi said. 
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Vote to protect democracy, Constitution says Cong leader Priyanka Gandhi

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP and candidate from Hooghly, Locket Chatterjee, noted the ongoing election process, stating that while there have been reports of threats at some locations within her constituency, the overall scenario remains peaceful, with voters ready to exercise their franchise.
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"Everything is going on fine...There were instances of threatening at 2-3 places at a booth in Balagarh, Dhaniakhali. EVM machines are not working at a few locations but work is going on those," Chatterjee conveyed, addressing media persons on Monday as the fifth phase of voting unfolded.
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"I am here at Dhaniakhali and the situation is fine. Everyone will exercise their franchise," she added, emphasizing the determination of voters amidst any challenges.
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In response to a query regarding the challenge posed by rival Trinamool candidate Rachana Banerjee, Chatterjee maintained a neutral stance, stating, "I do not have anything against the (TMC) candidate. She does not even know about Trinamool. No one here trusts Mamata Banerjee or Abhishek Banerjee. They (BJP) did their research with I-PAC and chose their candidate."
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Taking a swipe at the ruling party, Chatterjee highlighted the voters' resolve against corruption and their allegiance to Prime Minister Modi.&nbsp;
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"Voting is being done here against corruption and in the name of PM Modi. The corruption and the threats going on here are because they did not work," she remarked.
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"We hope that the EC will ensure a free and fair election here..." she added, urging people to come out and vote on Monday.
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While the TMC has fielded actor Rachna Banerjee from Hooghly, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) in partnership with the Congress in the INDIA bloc has nominated Manadip Ghosh.
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The fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections 2024 began on Monday morning across 49 parliamentary constituencies spread over six states and two Union Territories (UTs) amidst tight security and arrangements.
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According to the Election Commission of India (ECI), polling for 35 assembly constituencies of the Odisha legislative assembly is taking place simultaneously on Monday.
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The fifth phase witnesses key contests in various constituencies, with notable leaders like Rahul Gandhi, BJP leaders Rajnath Singh, Smriti Irani, Rajiv Pratap Rudy, Piyush Goyal, Ujjwal Nikam, Karan Bhushan Singh, LJP (Ramvilas) chief Chirag Paswan, JKNC chief Omar Abdullah, and RJD leader Rohini Acharya vying for electoral success.
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Eight states/UTs polling in phase 5&nbsp;are:&nbsp;Bihar, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.

Threats reported at 2-3 places, but BJP's Chatterjee assures harmony in Hooghly

The Election Commission on Monday removed a BSF personnel from poll duty in the Uluberia Lok Sabha constituency following a molestation complaint lodged against him, officials confirmed.
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The incident came to light when a woman filed a molestation complaint at Uluberia Police Station on Sunday evening.&nbsp;
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"We have removed him from election duty. We are waiting for the police report. If found guilty,&nbsp;necessary action will be taken as per law," a poll panel official stated.
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The fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections commenced across seven parliamentary constituencies in West Bengal on Monday under tight security.&nbsp;
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The Election Commission has classified over 57&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of the polling stations as sensitive, deploying more than 60,000 central forces&nbsp;personnel,&nbsp;alongside around 30,000&nbsp;policemen.
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This deployment of security forces is the highest for any phase of the elections in the state so far, the official added.

BSF officer removed from poll duty over molestation complaint in WB

Voting for five Lok Sabha constituencies and 35 assembly seats in Odisha commenced at 7 am on Monday under stringent security measures, officials reported.
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The parliamentary constituencies of Aska, Kandhamal, Bolangir, Bargarh, and Sundargarh are in focus, with simultaneous elections&nbsp;being held&nbsp;in 35 assembly segments within these constituencies.
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A total of&nbsp;approximately 79.69 lakh voters&nbsp;are expected&nbsp;to cast their ballots at 9,162 booths spread across 7,339 locations.&nbsp;
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Polling will continue until 6 pm, although voting in some remote and Maoist-affected areas will close earlier, officials confirmed.
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Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) N B Dhal reassured that extensive arrangements have&nbsp;been made&nbsp;to ensure the smooth conduct of the elections and facilitate voter convenience.
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"Over 79.69 lakh electors are eligible to vote, with 40 candidates contesting for the five Lok Sabha seats and 265 contestants vying for the 35 assembly segments," Dhal stated.
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Among the prominent leaders whose political futures hang in the balance are Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, contesting from two assembly segments&mdash;Hinjili in Ganjam district and Kantabanji in Bolangir district&mdash;alongside six Odisha ministers, BJP MPs Sangeeta Singh Deo and Jual Oram, and former Indian hockey captain Dilip Tirkey.
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By Sunday afternoon, approximately 60,000 polling personnel had arrived at their assigned destinations, ready to facilitate the voting process, according to Dhal.

79.69 lakh to vote in Odisha for 5 LS, 35 Assembly seats

&nbsp;Voting for five Lok Sabha seats Muzaffarpur, Madhubani, Sitamarhi, Saran and Hajipur constituencies in Bihar began amid tight security arrangements on Monday, a senior election official said.
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Polling commenced at 7 am and will continue till 6 pm, the official at the CEO office said.
&nbsp;
Over 95 lakh voters in the five seats will decide the electoral fate of 80 candidates at 9,436 polling stations.
&nbsp;
Of the total voters, 45.11 lakh are women, while 21 lakh are under 29 years of age and 1.26 lakh are in the age group of 18-19 years.
&nbsp;
Notable contestants include NDA ally Chirag Paswan in Hajipur, Lalu Prasad&rsquo;s daughter Rohini Acharya, who is pitted against two-term sitting BJP MP and former Union minister Rajiv Pratap Rudy in Saran, and Muzaffarpur&rsquo;s sitting MP Ajay Nishad, who crossed over to the Congress after being denied a BJP ticket for a third term.
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Sudhir Kumar Ojha, an advocate who remains in the news for his petitions against top political figures, Bollywood stars and even foreign heads of state, is contesting from Muzaffarpur.&nbsp;

Voting begins for 5 seats in Bihar, Chirag Paswan, Rudy, Rohini Acharya among candidates

Polling for the fifth phase of Lok Sabha polls commenced across seven parliamentary constituencies of West Bengal amid tight security on Monday, an official said.
&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Voting commenced in Bangaon (SC), Barrackpore, Howrah, Uluberia, Sreerampur, Hooghly, and Arambag (SC) Lok Sabha constituencies at 7 am and will continue till 6 pm.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">A total of 1,25,23,702 voters, comprising 63,51,320 men, 61,72,034 women, and 348 belonging to the third gender, are eligible to exercise their franchise across 13,481 polling stations.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">The Election Commission has designated over 57 per cent of the polling stations as sensitive and deployed over 60,000 personnel of central forces, in addition to around 30,000 policemen.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">The number of security forces deployed for this phase surpasses that of any of the four earlier phases in the state.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">A total of 88 candidates are contesting in the fifth phase, with the highest number of 15 candidates in Bongaon, where Union Minister Shantanu Thakur is contesting against Trinamool Congress&rsquo;s Biswajit Das. 
&nbsp;

West Bengal

Voting begins in 7 seats of Bengal amid tight security

Polling for three Lok Sabha seats in Jharkhand began on Monday morning in the state's second phase of elections and fifth nationally, officials said.
&nbsp;
Voting began at 7 am in Chatra, Koderma and Hazaribag seats, and will continue till 5 pm.
&nbsp;
People managing booths have been carefully selected, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) K Ravi Kumar said.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Of the 6,705 booths, including 6,130 in rural areas, 73 booths are managed by women, 13 by persons with disabilities, and 13 by youths, Kumar said.
&nbsp;
In this phase, 22 candidates are contesting from Chatra, 15 from Koderma, and 17 from Hazaribag.
&nbsp;
Approximately 58.34 lakh voters, including 28.35 lakh women, are eligible to exercise their franchise in these three constituencies, according to a PTI report.
&nbsp;
Voting also began for the Gandey assembly by-poll in the state.
&nbsp;
Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) K Ravi Kumar said this phase covers seven districts across three parliamentary constituencies, with polling materials and parties dispatched to 65 interior booths via choppers.
 In Chatra parliamentary constituency, there are 16.89 lakh voters, including 8.27 lakh female electors, with 1,899 booths. Koderma has 22.05 lakh electors, including 10.65 lakh women, with 2,552 booths, while Hazaribagh constituency has 19.39 lakh voters, including 9.42 lakh women, and 2,254 booths.
&nbsp;
Since the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct, illegal items and cash worth Rs 121.91 crore have been seized in the state.
In the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, the BJP won all three seats.
&nbsp;
Campaigning for the second phase of elections in the state saw the intense exchange of words between BJP and Congress over issues like corruption, reservation, Constitution and poll promises.&nbsp;

Jharkhand polling begins as women, physically challenged manage booths

As per the data, there are 17.37&nbsp;lakh voters eligible for voting in&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla Lok Sabha constituency, among them are over 500 centenarians. The political observers are expecting a high turnout on the back of the&nbsp;huge&nbsp;crowds that thronged election rallies and roadshows.
&nbsp;
With the first major political fray, post the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, the fates of Omar Abdullah, the National Conference vice-president and a former chief minister of the erstwhile Jammu and Kashmir state, and 21 others will be decided today.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Fourteen Independent candidates - two of whom are women, are among the hopefuls from the north Kashmir seat, which has traditionally returned a higher turnout compared to areas in central and south Kashmir.
&nbsp;
Abdullah faces the&nbsp;biggest&nbsp;challenge from separatist-turned-politician and former minister Sajad Lone, who heads the People's Conference. The blazing campaign trail witnessed the rivals going full throttle against each other and even bringing in the BJP to target each other despite the saffron party not contesting from any of the three parliamentary seats of Srinagar, Baramulla, and Anantnag-Rajouri in the Valley.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
However,&nbsp;it is&nbsp;the presence of jailed Awami Ittehad Party leader and former MLA Abdul Rashid Sheikh alias Engineer Rashid&nbsp;that&nbsp;has spiced up the contest.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The People's Democratic Party has fielded former Rajya Sabha member Mir Mohammad Fayaz while Muneer Khan, the brother of jailed separatist leader Nayeem Ahmad Khan, is contesting as an Independent.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Most observers, however, expect a triangular contest among Abdullah, Lone and Rashid. The Ghulam Nabi Azad-led Democratic Progressive Azad Party has backed Rashid's candidature&nbsp;while&nbsp;the Apni Party, led by Altaf Bukhari, has thrown its weight behind Lone.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Given the&nbsp;huge&nbsp;turnout at the rallies and roadshows, political observers expect Baramulla to break turnout records in Kashmir. The election authorities permitted 1,859 rallies, meetings, and roadshows&nbsp;while&nbsp;300 applications&nbsp;were rejected.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
In 2019, the constituency recorded 34.17 per cent polling&nbsp;with&nbsp;Kupwara district registering the highest turnout at 51.7 per cent, followed by Bandipora at 31.8 per cent and Baramulla at 24 per cent.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The constituency is spread over 18 assembly segments in the three districts of Kupwara, Baramulla, and Bandipora&nbsp;and also includes&nbsp;two segments of Budgam that&nbsp;were included&nbsp;in the recommendations of the delimitation commission two years ago.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
According to Election Commission officials, 17.37 lakh people&nbsp;are eligible to cast their votes&nbsp;at 2,103 polling stations.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"There are 527 persons above the age of 100&nbsp;who are&nbsp;eligible to exercise their franchise. There are 8,75,831 (8.75 lakh) male and 8,62,000 (8.62 lakh) female voters, besides 34 from the third gender. More than 17,000 voters are persons with disabilities," they said.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Preparations for the voting:&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Over 8,000 polling staff, including reserves, have been deployed at the polling stations to ensure smooth conduct of the polls, the officials said and added that 28 polling stations&nbsp;are located&nbsp;in the border areas of Kupwara and Baramulla districts.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
There are 18 polling booths managed by women, 17&nbsp;manned&nbsp;by specially-abled persons, and 18 by youngsters.&nbsp;To spread messages on the environment, the authorities have also set up 21 green polling booths.
&nbsp;
In Jammu, Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner Arvind Karwani said that all arrangements, including security, are in place for Monday's polling for displaced Kashmiris.
&nbsp;
"Twenty-eight polling stations, including auxiliary ones, have been established in Jammu and Delhi. We have ensured all arrangements at each polling station, with help desks set up to assist voters," Karwani stated.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
He emphasised that help desks will facilitate voters with EPIC cards even if their names are missing from voter lists, ensuring that every eligible elector can exercise their franchise.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Karwani said that over 20,000 displaced voters are eligible to vote. Of the 28 polling stations for migrants, 21 are in Jammu, four in Delhi, one in Udhampur, and three are auxiliary polling stations.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The Election Commission has arranged a pick-and-drop facility for Kashmiri migrant voters, operational from 6 am to 6 pm on polling day.
&nbsp;
"This transport facility will be available in areas with higher concentrations of migrant voters," Karwani added.&nbsp;

Over 500 centenarians among 17.37 lakh Baramulla voters

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri recently highlighted the rapid development of urban metro transport in India, predicting that the country will soon have the world's second-largest urban metro system.
&nbsp;
Speaking to an audience that included former judges, veterans, and intellectuals, Puri discussed the significant strides made in metro infrastructure over the past decade.
&nbsp;
During the interaction, Puri emphasised the increasing use of metro systems in urban areas. He noted that currently, around 10 million people use metro services daily in India, with 7.3 million of these riders coming from the Delhi National Capital Region.
&nbsp;
He stressed that despite the growing population in cities, urban transport systems have made it easier for people to move across cities efficiently.
&nbsp;
Puri shared that India currently operates 945 kilometres of metro lines, with an additional 1,000 kilometres under construction. This expansion is expected to be completed in the next two and a half years, placing India second only to China in terms of urban metro infrastructure.
&nbsp;
Reflecting on the origins of India's metro development, Puri credited former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee for initiating the metro system in 2002. He also praised the current administration under Prime Minister Narendra Modi for its ongoing efforts to modernise the country's transport infrastructure.
&nbsp;
In addition to metro development, Puri touched upon the modernization of India's police forces. He referred to the BJP manifesto, which includes commitments to transforming the police into a more tech-savvy and equipped force. He highlighted the progress made over the past decade and the plans for further reforms in the coming years.
&nbsp;
Former Delhi Police Commissioner BS Bassi also spoke at the event, praising the Modi government's innovative approach to governance. Bassi highlighted the administration's support for out-of-the-box thinking and its efforts to enhance security through improved intelligence and proactive measures. He noted that there have been no bomb attacks in Delhi in the past decade, attributing this success to the government's robust security policies.
&nbsp;
Bassi also commended the expansion of the Delhi Metro, recalling the traffic challenges of the 1970s and the significant improvements brought about by the metro system's growth. He shared insights from conversations with people from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, who expressed their support for Modi's leadership and the development it promises for their home states.
&nbsp;
Puri concluded by stating that the interaction was not only about reflecting on past achievements but also about gathering valuable suggestions for future initiatives.
&nbsp;
He mentioned that many attendees expressed confidence in Modi's leadership, particularly in terms of reducing tensions with Pakistan and addressing issues in the region of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
&nbsp;
The discussion highlighted the substantial progress in India's metro infrastructure and police modernization, reflecting a broader commitment to development and security under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration.

India set to have 2nd largest urban metro in 2 years says Hardeep Puri

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's helicopter crash has intensified search efforts, as the Iranian military locates the crash site. According to Iranian state news agency IRNA, the military crew is en route to the identified location.
&nbsp;
A signal from the helicopter and a mobile phone of one crew member were detected at the crash site, as reported by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander for East Azerbaijan province, where the crash occurred.
&nbsp;
The crash site remained unknown for approximately 10 hours after authorities lost contact with President Raisi&rsquo;s helicopter. The helicopter went down in dense fog in East Azerbaijan Province on Sunday afternoon, hindering search efforts during the day.
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The overnight low temperature in the nearest city, Tabriz, is expected to be in the low 50s, but temperatures in the remote mountains where the crash occurred will likely dip closer to freezing, complicating rescue operations further.
&nbsp;
In response, the European Union activated its rapid response mapping service to assist in locating the Iranian leader. The European Commissioner for Crisis Management announced the activation, which provides highly accurate and continuously updated information on human settlements and populations through the Global Human Settlement Layer (GHSL).
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Additionally, Iran requested assistance from Turkey in the search for President Raisi&rsquo;s helicopter. Turkey's disaster and emergency management ministry has dispatched a night vision search and rescue helicopter, six vehicles, and 32 mountaineer search and rescue personnel.
&nbsp;
President Raisi was returning from a visit to Azerbaijan when the helicopter crashed in bad weather. On board were Iran&rsquo;s Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, Hojjatoleslam Al Hashem (head of the Friday prayer in Tabriz), Malek Rahmati (governor of East Azerbaijan province), and several others.
&nbsp;
Iranian Vice President for Executive Affairs Mohsen Mansouri reported that Iranian officials had spoken to two individuals on the helicopter since the crash. Because contact was made several times shortly after the crash, it appears the incident may not have been severe.
&nbsp;
Mansouri also mentioned that three helicopters were flying on the same route, and two lost contact with Raisi&rsquo;s helicopter.
&nbsp;
The Ministry of Communications and other security agencies have identified the incident area within a 2-kilometre radius, but adverse weather conditions have made access difficult.
&nbsp;
The Commander of Iran&rsquo;s 6th Air Force Base stated that helicopters from the 6th Combat Base of Tabriz Air Force arrived in the Varzeghan area for relief operations early Sunday. Unfortunately, these operations failed due to unfavourable weather conditions.
&nbsp;
Rescuers are facing dense fog and extreme cold as night falls in Iran, with local time approaching 9:30 pm. The search efforts continue amid challenging weather conditions, and the nation awaits further updates on the situation.

Search intensified as President Raisi's helicopter crash site located

Live

Four states of east zone go to polls in Phase 5

West Zone, Maharashtra's 13 Lok Sabha Seat to Vote for in Phase 5

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and his foreign minister were involved in a helicopter crash on Sunday while crossing mountain terrain in heavy fog. The incident occurred as they were returning from a visit to the border with Azerbaijan.
&nbsp;
The helicopter, carrying President Raisi and several officials, crashed near Jolfa, a city on the border with Azerbaijan, according to Iranian state-run media. Reports suggest that the lives of President Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian are at risk following the crash.
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Rescue teams, including ambulances and armed forces, have been dispatched to search for the crashed helicopter. However, heavy rains and poor weather conditions are hindering rescue efforts in the area.
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Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has interrupted his vacation and returned to the White House for an emergency meeting amid reports of the helicopter crash. US officials are reportedly concerned that President Raisi may have been assassinated.
&nbsp;
President Raisi was visiting neighbouring Azerbaijan to inaugurate a dam with President Ilham Aliyev. The visit aimed to strengthen relations between the two nations despite previous tensions.
&nbsp;
Leaders from around the world, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari, have expressed their concerns and prayers for President Raisi's well-being.
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Deeply concerned by reports regarding President Raisi&rsquo;s helicopter flight today. We stand in solidarity with the Iranian people in this hour of distress, and pray for well being of the President and his entourage.
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1792242768468758626?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Today, after bidding a friendly farewell to the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ebrahim Raisi, we were profoundly troubled by the news of a helicopter carrying the top delegation crash-landing in Iran. Our prayers to Allah Almighty are with President Ebrahim Raisi and&hellip;
&mdash; Ilham Aliyev (@presidentaz) <a href="https://twitter.com/presidentaz/status/1792228739494850637?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2024</a>The incident comes amidst ongoing tensions in the region and raises questions about the safety of high-profile officials during travel. As rescue efforts continue, the international community waits anxiously for updates on the condition of President Raisi and others involved in the crash.</blockquote>

Iranian President Raisi's life in danger after helicopter crash

Ladakh

North Lok Sabha Phase 5: UP, Baramulla, Ladakh votes; Union Ministers in fray

<div class="heading">
Live Updates
</div>
<div class="timeline-wrapper">
<div class="timeline-container">
May 20, 18:18
<div class="detail-wrapper">
<h2 class="timeline-heading">56.68% voter turnout recorded till 5 pm</h2>
Bihar- 52.35%
Jammu &amp; Kashmir- 54.21%
Jharkhand- 61.90%
Ladakh-67.15%
Maharashtra- 48.66%
Odisha- 60.55%
Uttar Pradesh-55.80
West Bengal- 73.00%
</div>
</div>
<div class="timeline-container">
May 20, 16:15
<div class="detail-wrapper">
<h2 class="timeline-heading">47.53 % Overall voter turnout by 3 PM</h2>
West Bengal records the highest turnout at 62.72 per cent, while Maharashtra saw the lowest at 38.77 per cent. Other states reported turnout figures as follows: Bihar at 45.33 per cent, Jammu and Kashmir at 44.90 per cent, Jharkhand at 53.90 per cent, Odisha at 48.95 per cent, Uttar Pradesh at 47.55 per cent, and Ladakh at 61.26 per cent.
</div>
</div>
<div class="timeline-container">
May 20, 14:06
<div class="detail-wrapper">
<h2 class="timeline-heading">36.73% voter turnout recorded till 1 pm</h2>
Bihar 34.62% Jammu &amp; Kashmir 34.79% Jharkhand 41.89% Ladakh 52.02% Maharashtra 27.78% Odisha 35.31% Uttar Pradesh 39.55% West Bengal 48.41%
</div>
</div>
<div class="timeline-container">
May 20, 11:58
<div class="detail-wrapper">
<h2 class="timeline-heading">23.66% voter turnout recorded till 11 am</h2>
Bihar 21.11%
Jammu &amp; Kashmir 21.37%
Jharkhand 26.18%
Ladakh 27.87%
Maharashtra 15.93%
Odisha 21.07%
Uttar Pradesh 27.76%
West Bengal 32.70%
</div>
</div>
<div class="timeline-container">
May 20, 09:45
<div class="detail-wrapper">
<h2 class="timeline-heading">BJP MP and Amethi Lok Sabha candidate, Smriti Irani, arrives at a polling station in Amethi to cast her vote .</h2>
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Uttar Pradesh: BJP MP and candidate from Amethi Lok Sabha seat, Smriti Irani arrives at a polling station in Amethi to cast her vote for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2024</a> Congress has fielded KL Sharma from this seat. <a href="https://t.co/yAeOMBZZxP">pic.twitter.com/yAeOMBZZxP</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1792403572686237982?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
</div>
</div>
<div class="timeline-container">
May 20, 09:45
<div class="detail-wrapper">
<h2 class="timeline-heading">10.28% voter turnout recorded till 9 am, in the fifth phase of elections.</h2>
Bihar 8.86% Jammu &amp; Kashmir 7.63% Jharkhand 11.68% Ladakh 10.51% Maharashtra 6.33% Odisha 6.87% West Bengal 15.35% UP -12.89%
</div>
</div>
<div class="timeline-container">
May 20, 08:55
<div class="detail-wrapper">
<h2 class="timeline-heading">Actor Sanya Malhotra displays the indelible ink on her finger after voting at a Mumbai polling booth.</h2>
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Actor Sanya Malhotra shows the indelible ink mark on her finger after casting her vote at a polling booth in Mumbai.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2024</a> <a href="https://t.co/ajbM69mtqJ">pic.twitter.com/ajbM69mtqJ</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1792389276996603947?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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</div>
</div>
<div class="timeline-container">
May 20, 08:55
<div class="detail-wrapper">
<h2 class="timeline-heading">Bollywood celebrities were spotted at the polling booths, exercising their right to vote.</h2>
Bollywood Actress Janhvi Kapoor casts her vote at a polling station in Mumbai
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Bollywood Actress Janhvi Kapoor casts her vote at a polling station in Mumbai for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2024</a> "Please come out and vote, " she says <a href="https://t.co/5Ki6JH30Et">pic.twitter.com/5Ki6JH30Et</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1792389278963769769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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</div>
</div>
<div class="timeline-container">
May 20, 08:55
<div class="detail-wrapper">
<h2 class="timeline-heading">Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, along with his family members, casts their votes at a polling booth in Lucknow. Pathak said, "We are winning all 80 seats in the state, including Amethi and Raebareli."</h2>
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | After casting his vote, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak says, "I appeal to all the voters to come and out for the resolve of Viksit Bharat. We are winning all 80 seats of the state including Amethi and Raebareli..." <a href="https://t.co/S8yaPOn4MO">https://t.co/S8yaPOn4MO</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZXNbytJMH2">pic.twitter.com/ZXNbytJMH2</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1792395193897128205?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, his family members show their inked fingers after casting their vote for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2024</a> at a polling booth in Lucknow. <a href="https://t.co/nEgDqmpIFR">pic.twitter.com/nEgDqmpIFR</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1792394565959532601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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</div>
</div>
<div class="timeline-container">
May 20, 08:55
<div class="detail-wrapper">
<h2 class="timeline-heading">BSP president and former UP Chief Minister Mayawati urges the public to head to their polling booths and cast their votes, as she herself votes in Lucknow, UP.</h2>
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
VIDEO | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: "I appeal to the people to come out and go to their polling booths and cast their votes," says BSP president and former UP CM Mayawati (<a href="https://twitter.com/Mayawati?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Mayawati</a>) as she casts her vote in UP's Lucknow. (Full video available on PTI Videos -&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/627FxdU972">pic.twitter.com/627FxdU972</a>
&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1792373195456049375?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
</div>
</div>
<div class="timeline-container">
May 20, 08:55
<div class="detail-wrapper">
<h2 class="timeline-heading">Actor Akshay Kumar casts his vote at a polling booth in Mumbai's Juhu.</h2>
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
VIDEO | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: "I want that my country remains strong and keeps growing and I have voted keeping it in mind. And more people should come to cast their vote to whoever they deem suitable," says Actor Akshay Kumar (<a href="https://twitter.com/akshaykumar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@akshaykumar</a>) as he casts his vote at a polling&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/5Lmptf0eh4">pic.twitter.com/5Lmptf0eh4</a>
&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1792377732610855243?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
</div>
</div>
<div class="timeline-container">
May 20, 08:55
<div class="detail-wrapper">
<h2 class="timeline-heading">Union Minister and BJP candidate from Mumbai North Lok Sabha seat Piyush Goyal ( @PiyushGoyal ) after casting his vote.</h2>
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
VIDEO | &ldquo;Democracy is being celebrated today in Mumbai and other states of the country. I appeal to people to participate in this festival and make it successful,&rdquo; says Union Minister and BJP candidate from Mumbai North Lok Sabha seat Piyush Goyal (<a href="https://twitter.com/PiyushGoyal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PiyushGoyal</a>) after casting his&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/cj6h3Ta2Y7">pic.twitter.com/cj6h3Ta2Y7</a>
&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1792388862561460478?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
</div>
</div>
<div class="timeline-container">
May 20, 08:55
<div class="detail-wrapper">
<h2 class="timeline-heading">RBI governor Shaktikanta Das casts his vote at Peddar Road in Mumbai.</h2>
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
VIDEO | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: "I appeal to all voters to cast their votes. This is everyone's constitutional right and everyone should vote." says RBI governor Shaktikanta Das (<a href="https://twitter.com/DasShaktikanta?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DasShaktikanta</a>) after casting his vote at Peddar Road in Mumbai. (Full video available on PTI&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/az9gjjLhF1">pic.twitter.com/az9gjjLhF1</a>
&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1792389616651194833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
</div>
</div>
<div class="timeline-container">
May 20, 07:03
<div class="detail-wrapper">
<h2 class="timeline-heading">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Businessman Anil Ambani reaches a polling booth in Mumbai's Colaba to cast his vote.</h2>
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
VIDEO | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Businessman Anil Ambani reaches a polling booth in Mumbai's Colaba to cast his vote. The voting will be held today for 49 constituencies spread across six states and two Union Territories. (Full video available on PTI Videos -&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/R3HHq1pPIN">pic.twitter.com/R3HHq1pPIN</a>
&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1792368647102480432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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May 20, 07:03
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<h2 class="timeline-heading">Voting begins for five constituencies in fifth phase of parliamentary polls in Bihar: Official</h2>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
VIDEO | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: People of Bihar's Muzaffarpur line up out a polling booth to cast their votes. The voting will be held today for 49 constituencies spread across six states and two Union Territories. (Full video available on PTI Videos -&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/Wvljcnkodv">pic.twitter.com/Wvljcnkodv</a>
&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1792366534716780753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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May 20, 07:03
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<h2 class="timeline-heading">Mock polling underway at a polling booth set up in Koderma, Jharkhand.</h2>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
VIDEO | Mock polling underway at a polling booth set up in Koderma, Jharkhand. The voting for the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections will be held today in 49 constituencies in six states and two Union Territories. (Full video available on PTI Videos -&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/A3vPaWb2hZ">pic.twitter.com/A3vPaWb2hZ</a>
&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1792368224262148499?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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May 20, 07:03
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<h2 class="timeline-heading">Polling began Monday morning for 13 of the 48 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra. Security beefed up at a polling booth of Mumbai's Colaba ahead of voting.</h2>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
VIDEO | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Security beefed up at a polling booth of Mumbai's Colaba ahead of voting. The voting for the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections will be held today in 49 constituencies spread across six states and two Union Territories. (Full video&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/XN6udVAQFw">pic.twitter.com/XN6udVAQFw</a>
&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1792364455583416580?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<div class="timeline-container">
May 20, 06:58
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<h2 class="timeline-heading">Voting for the fifth phase of Lok Sabha election 2024 to be held in 49 constituencies across the country today. Visuals from a polling booth in Amethi, UP.</h2>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Voting for the fifth phase of Lok Sabha election 2024 to be held in 49 constituencies across the country today. Visuals from a polling booth in Amethi, UP. BJP MP and sitting candidate Smriti Irani &amp; Congress' KL Sharma face each other here in the constituency. <a href="https://t.co/gvIBV6vmQW">pic.twitter.com/gvIBV6vmQW</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1792362423065977324?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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May 19, 21:35
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<h2 class="timeline-heading">Polling to begin at 7 am</h2>
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Phase 5: 49 seats in the fray; 56.68% voter turnout by 5 pm

Gopi Thotakura, an entrepreneur and pilot, became the first Indian to venture into space as a tourist aboard Amazon founder Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin&rsquo;s NS-25 mission on Sunday, marking a historic milestone.
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Thotakura was one of six crew members selected for the NS-25 mission, making him the first Indian space tourist and the second Indian to venture into space after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma in 1984.
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<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://api.newsarenaindia.com//uploads/screenshot_20240519_203215_1716130946657_1716130956946-1jpg_1716134541558.jpg" width="497" height="280">
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Blue Origin&rsquo;s seventh human flight, the NS-25 was launched from Launch Site One in West Texas on Sunday morning. The mission was the seventh human flight for the New Shepard programme and the 25th in its history.
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To date, the programme has flown 31 humans above the Karman line, the proposed boundary between Earth's atmosphere and outer space.
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The New Shepard is a fully reusable sub-orbital launch vehicle developed by Blue Origin for space tourism.
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&ldquo;Gopi is a pilot and aviator who learned how to fly before he could drive,&rdquo; Blue Origin stated.
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Thotakura co-founded Preserve Life Corp., a global centre for holistic wellness and applied health near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
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In addition to flying jets commercially, Thotakura pilots bush, aerobatic, and seaplanes, as well as gliders and hot air balloons. He has also served as an international medical jet pilot. A lifelong traveller, his most recent adventure was climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.
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Born in Andhra Pradesh, Thotakura is a graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
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Other crew members included Mason Angel, Sylvain Chiron, Kenneth L. Hess, Carol Schaller, and former Air Force Captain Ed Dwight. Dwight was selected by President John F. Kennedy in 1961 as the nation's first black astronaut candidate but never had the opportunity to fly to space.
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<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://api.newsarenaindia.com//uploads/ns25trainingday2crew_galleryjpg_1716134441648.jpg" width="433" height="276">
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During the flight, each astronaut carried a postcard to space on behalf of Blue Origin&rsquo;s foundation, Club for the Future, which aims to inspire future generations to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM).
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Environmentally, nearly 99% of New Shepard&rsquo;s dry mass is reused, including the booster, capsule, engine, landing gear, and parachutes. The rocket&rsquo;s engine is fueled by liquid oxygen and hydrogen, producing only water vapour as a byproduct with no carbon emissions.
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Blue Origin also released the NS-25 mission patch, featuring symbols like the Gemini spacecraft, representing Dwight&rsquo;s aerospace training, and a hand lifting the crew capsule, nodding to his extensive artwork. The sunrise symbolises Angel and Schaller&rsquo;s desire to experience the overview effect, while mountains represent the passion for climbing and skiing shared by Schaller, Thotakura, and Chiron.
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<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://api.newsarenaindia.com//uploads/l120240518164239-1jpg_1716134683608.jpg" width="491" height="276">
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Blue Origin paused its suborbital tourism programme following a liftoff malfunction of the New Shepard rocket in September 2022, when an uncrewed flight ended in flames about a minute after liftoff.

Washington D.C.

Gopi Thotakura becomes first Indian space tourist on Blue Origin's NS-25 Mission

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday called on international bodies to address human rights violations in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
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Speaking at an election rally in Khurda, Odisha, Singh emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "Human rights are being violated in PoK international human rights agencies should take cognisance of the happenings in PoK."
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He also claimed that the residents of PoK now wish to join India rather than remain under Pakistani administration.
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Singh recounted, "I had earlier said we need not attack anyone, they will come on their own. Two days ago, I saw a video in which people of PoK were seen uprooting a Pakistani flag-post." He reiterated, "PoK is and will remain an integral part of India."
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Discussing the reduction of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir under the NDA government, Singh noted that incidents have significantly decreased, contrasting this with the numerous attacks during the previous UPA regime.
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Singh highlighted that India has never aggressed against another country or tried to seize their land, whereas Pakistan has continually attempted to create unrest in India.
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Addressing additional rallies in Rairakhol in Sambalpur and Patana in Keonjhar, Singh criticized Congress for making unfeasible promises of religious-based reservations, which he stated are unconstitutional, referencing a Supreme Court rejection of such reservations in two universities.
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He lauded the Modi government for abolishing 'triple talaq' and emphasized that the BJP's politics aim to build the nation, not just garner votes.
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Singh criticized the Congress and BJD for Odisha's lack of development, claiming that from Jawaharlal Nehru to Manmohan Singh, they failed to eradicate poverty, whereas PM Modi has lifted 25 crore people out of poverty. He cited Modi's provision of pucca houses, piped water, free cooking gas, foodgrains, and toilets to the poor as significant achievements.
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He proclaimed, "With Ram Lalla coming to his temple, Ram Rajya will be established in India," and criticized the BJD government for not implementing the Ayushman Bharat health scheme in Odisha. Singh promised that the BJP would implement it if they came to power in the state.
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Lastly, Singh accused the BJD government of mishandling the keys to Lord Jagannath's treasury in Puri, pledging, "The BJP will open Lord Jagannath's Ratna Bhandar in Puri temple after it forms the government in Odisha".

Rajnath Singh urges global action on human rights abuses in PoK

A bevy of high-profile candidates, from ministers to actors, would test their luck in the hustings on Monday as seven Lok Sabha constituencies in the southern part of West Bengal go for polls in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections.
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<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">A total of 1,25,23,702 voters &mdash; 63,51,320 men, 61,72,034 women and 348 third-genders &mdash; are eligible to exercise their franchise in 13,481 polling stations across the seven constituencies.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">The EC has identified over 57 per cent of the polling booths as sensitive and decided to deploy over 60,000 central forces besides 29,172 state police personnel for this phase, according to an official.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Reopening of closed industries, poor health of jute mills and demand for jobs are the main demands of the electorate in Howrah, Hooghly, Serampore and Barrackpore Lok Sabha constituencies, situated on both sides of the banks of River Hooghly.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">The Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) is the bone of contention between the BJP and the TMC in Bangladesh-bordering Bangaon constituency, where winning the hearts of the Matua community, many of whom migrated from the neighbouring country, holds the key to ensuring a victory in the polls.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Uluberia and Arambagh are the other two constituencies in Bengal which are going to polls on Monday.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">With the elections having come down to the high-strung constituencies in south Bengal in the fifth phase, the Election Commission has declared over 57 per cent booths as sensitive in Monday's polls, deploying the maximum number of security personnel among the first five phases to ensure peaceful polling.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Bharatiya Janata Party&rsquo;s Arjun Singh, who has been in and out of the saffron party and the Trinamool Congress on four occasions in the last five years, is taking on West Bengal minister Partha Bhowmick in Barrackpore in a bid to retain the seat he won in 2019.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Actor Rachana Banerjee has been fielded by the TMC to stop BJP&rsquo;s actor candidate Locket Chatterjee from winning for a straight second term from Hooghly.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">In Serampore, BJP&rsquo;s Kabir Shankar Bose and CPI(M)'s student leader Dipsita Dhar are taking on TMC&rsquo;s sitting MP Kalyan Banerjee, who is contesting to win this seat for a fourth consecutive term.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Union Minister of State Shantanu Thakur of BJP is fighting to retain the Bangaon seat against TMC&rsquo;s Biswajit Das, who had switched to the Mamata Banerjee-led party after winning the 2021 assembly polls as a saffron party candidate from Bagdah, which is situated within this Lok Sabha constituency.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">In Howrah, once known as the Sheffield of the East for its numerous factories, footballer-turned-politician Prasun Banerjee is seeking to retain the seat for a third time on a TMC ticket. He is being given a tough fight by BJP&rsquo;s Rathin Chakraborty, a former TMC leader and mayor of Howrah Municipal Corporation, apart from CPI(M)&rsquo;s lawyer candidate Sabyasachi Chatterjee.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">BJP&rsquo;s Arun Uday Pal Chaudhary is fighting to stop TMC's Sajda Ahmed from winning a third consecutive term in the Uluberia constituency.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">In Arambagh, TMC has put up Mitali Bag, replacing its two-term MP Aparupa Poddar, to take on BJP&rsquo;s Arup Kanti Digar and CPI(M)&rsquo;s Biplab Kanti Moitra. 
&nbsp;

Phase 5 of LS Polls: High-profile candidates in fray from 7 seats of Bengal

It has been ten long years since bifurcation, but several issues such as division of assets, power bill dues, are still unresolved between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana even as Hyderabad would cease to be the common capital of the two states from June 2.
&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Hyderabad would belong solely to Telangana, according to Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act 2014.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">According to official sources, the division of various institutions and corporations, listed in Schedule 9 and Schedule 10 of the Act, between the two states, has not been completed as there was no consensus over several issues.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">According to the AP Reorganisation Act, as many as 89 government companies and corporations are listed in the Ninth Schedule.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">They include state-run companies and corporations like Andhra Pradesh State Seeds Development Corporation, Andhra Pradesh State Agro Industrial Development Corporation and Andhra Pradesh State Warehousing Corporation.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">The 10th Schedule of the Act includes 107 training institutions/centres like AP State Co-operative Union, Environment Protection Training and Research Institute, AP Forest Academy, Centre for Good Governance and Andhra Pradesh Police Academy.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Another example is the disagreement between the two states over assets of the state-run Road Transport Corporation.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">CM A Revanth Reddy had instructed the officials to settle amicably the pending transfer and repatriation of employees to Andhra Pradesh.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">The Telangana government had proposed to conduct a meeting of the state cabinet on May 18 to discuss, among others, the pending issues between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh and other related matters.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">However, the cabinet meeting could not be held as the requisite nod from Election Commission, in view of the model code of conduct for Lok Sabha elections, was not received till May 18 night.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">CM Revanth Reddy has now decided to hold the cabinet meeting after obtaining the EC's approval.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">It was fulfilment of a decades-long demand when Telangana came into existence on June 2, 2014 following the passage of Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation bill in Parliament in February, 2014, during the previous UPA regime.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">The row over Andhra Pradesh Bhavan in Delhi was resolved in March this year with the Centre making land allocation to the two states. The Centre had held a meeting with senior officials from both the states in the National Capital in March on bifurcation issues. 
&nbsp;

Hyderabad

Bifurcation blues: 10 years later, many issues remain unresolved between AP, T'gana

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen Anil Chauhan highlighted the significance of unity and coordination among the armed forces during his visit to the Central Air Command in Prayagraj on Sunday.
&nbsp;
Gen Chauhan's emphasis was on maintaining the required levels of readiness and cooperation among the military branches.
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<img src="https://api.newsarenaindia.com//uploads/gn8wfdxxcaacm_sjpg_1716129868795.jpg" width="1439" height="1078">
&nbsp;
During his visit, Gen Chauhan received a comprehensive briefing on the operational aspects of the Central Air Command at its headquarters. In his address, he stressed the importance of upholding the desired levels of readiness and vigilance.
&nbsp;
Gen Chauhan underscored the necessity of enhancing jointmanship and cultivating an atmosphere of collaboration within the Armed Forces.
&nbsp;
The briefing session was attended by senior officials from both the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army, along with representatives from nearby Army and Air Force Stations.
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<img src="https://api.newsarenaindia.com//uploads/gn8wfqew4aargs7jpg_1716129890245.jpg" width="738" height="738">
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Gen Anil Chauhan's address was broadcasted live across all air bases under the Central Air Command using their internal virtual platform SAMVAD.
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Furthermore, CDS Gen Chauhan engaged in discussions with senior officers and commended the operational preparedness of the Central Air Command.
&nbsp;
His interactions aimed to acknowledge the efforts and dedication of the personnel towards maintaining operational readiness in the region.

Prayagraj

Prayagraj trip: CDS Gen Anil Chauhan pushes for Armed Forces unity

&nbsp;
Addressing multiple election meetings in the Hamirpur parliamentary constituency, Union Minister Anurag Thakur stated, "The nation will be doomed and become a colony of foreign forces who are busy destabilising the integrity and unity of India if the Congress-led INDI bloc is allowed to rule."
&nbsp;
Thakur called on people to join hands with the BJP, remain united under the party banner, and vote for it on June 1.
&nbsp;
Thakur accused Congress and INDIA bloc leaders of advocating for terrorists and pro-Pakistani elements, but assured that their "nefarious desires" would not come to fruition as people are aware of their "evil designs."
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The Union Minister further alleged that the Congress adopted a policy of appeasement towards minority communities and claimed that nepotism and terrorism prevailed during the UPA government&rsquo;s tenure.
&nbsp;
Praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ten-year term as "historic and unforgettable," Thakur said Modi's work has left an "indelible mark" on the hearts and minds of people. He added that 'My Choice Modi' is resonating across the country.
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Thakur highlighted that 25 crore people have come out of poverty during PM Modi's term. He also pointed to alleged scams during the Congress rule, accusing them of looting the country and making it hollow.
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Thakur appealed to BJP workers to educate the younger generation about how Congress allegedly looted the country.

Hamirpur

Anurag Thakur: India to become "colony of foreign forces" if INDI bloc comes to power

Tight security arrangements have been made, with the deployment of over 33,000 personnel, for elections to five Lok Sabha and 35 assembly constituencies in Odisha on Monday, officials said.
&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Over 70.69 lakh voters, including 40.33 lakh men, 39.35 lakh women and 851 transgender persons, are eligible to cast their votes at 9,162 polling stations in Aska, Kandhamal, Bargarh, Bolangir and Sundargarh Lok Sabha constituencies, and 35 assembly seats falling under these parliamentary constituencies, in the second phase of polls in the state.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">A total of 40 candidates are in the fray for the five Lok Sabha seats, while 265 nominees, including Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, will try their luck in the 35 assembly segments.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Patnaik is contesting from two assembly segments &mdash; Hinjili under Aska Lok Sabha seat in Ganjam district and Kantabanji under Bolangir parliamentary constituency &mdash; around 400 km apart.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Apart from Patnaik, major contestants whose electoral fate would be decided on Monday include around half-a-dozen Odisha ministers, Bharatiya Janata Party&rsquo;s sitting MPs Jual Oram and Sangeeta Singh Deo, Biju Janata Dal MP Achyut Samant and former Indian Hockey captain Dilip Tirkey.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">In Aska, tight security arrangements have been ensured following the death of a BJP worker in a clash with BJD supporters.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">State Chief Electoral Officer Nikunja Bihari Dhal said 22 companies of central forces have been deployed in Aska.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&ldquo;We are committed to conducting free and fair elections in the state,&rdquo; Dhal said.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Polling personnel, along with EVMs and other materials, have already reached their destinations, he said.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Of the 9,162 polling stations, 1,541 will be model polling stations, while 1,041 will be managed by all-woman personnel and 25 will be run by PwD officials. Nearly 20 per cent of the 9,162 polling stations have been identified as critical, including those in Maoist-hit areas, he said.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&ldquo;With the IMD predicting heat wave conditions on May 20, adequate drinking water, ORS and essential medicines will be made available at each polling station. Besides, paramedical staffers, ASHA workers, ambulances and mobile health units will also be deployed,&rdquo; he said, adding that an air ambulance will be kept on standby at Bolangir for exigencies.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">For any security-related emergency, one Indian Air Force helicopter will also be kept on standby, Dhal said.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">In 2019, Bargarh Lok Sabha seat had recorded 77.87 per cent turnout, followed by Sundargarh (71.67), Bolangir (74.75), Kandhamal (72.90) and Aska (65.53), he said. 
&nbsp;

Stage set for LS & state polls in Odisha, security & healthcare measures in place

More than a thousand policemen from Mizoram faced challenges in voting during the Lok Sabha polls on April 19, as revealed by state election officials.
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These officers were stationed in different states for election duty well ahead of April 19, the voting day in Mizoram, according to state election department representatives.
&nbsp;
Although there were plans to facilitate their voting through special centres, these arrangements fell through because the officers had to depart the state before candidates were finalised, state officials explained.
&nbsp;
Despite repeated appeals to the Election Commission for allowing these officers to vote, their requests were reportedly turned down by the central election body, officials lamented.
&nbsp;
In response, the People's Conference (PC) party reached out to SB Joshi, principal secretary of the Election Commission, urging the commission to enable the 1,047 policemen from Mizoram to cast their votes before the vote counting process.
&nbsp;
The party criticised the authorities for not implementing the Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballot System (ETPBS) for the policemen and stressed that these 1,047 votes could have made a significant difference in the election outcome in a small state like Mizoram.

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