Lok Sabha Election 2024 Highlights: Country faced identity crisis during Congress-led govt at Centre, UP CM Yogi Adityanath says

BJP candidate from Lucknow Lok Sabha seat and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh says, by 2027 in terms of wealth India will rank at number three position. Our one of the neighbours who never said good for our country, today their leaders are also saying that India is becoming a powerful country and Pakistan is still backwards.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is on a two-day visit of Srinagar from May 16 during which he is likely to chair a security review meeting.Mr. Shah arrived at a Srinagar hotel where he is scheduled to meet local BJP leaders ahead of the remaining two phases of elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

EC directed MHA to retain 25 companies of central forces in Andhra Pradesh even after counting of votes on June 4. ECI approved the proposals of Andhra Pradesh to transfer District Collector Palnadu, SP Tirupati and initiate departmental enquiry over the post-poll violence in Andhra Pradesh

Union Minister and BJP Lok Sabha candidate from Sambalpur, Dharmendra Pradhan held a padayatra in Sambalpur, during campaign trail.

Addressing a rally in Amritsar, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal said, BJP are saying 400 paar because they want 400 seats to end reservations. If they get the majority, they will end the reservations and the Constitution. He asked voters to be vary of who they vote saying, if you press the 'Jhaadu' button, I would not need to go to jail. I would have to if you press any other button. When you press the button, remember why you are doing it, for Kejriwal's arrest or freedom.

Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Yogi Adityanath criticized the previous Congress-led administration, saying that the nation was experiencing an identity crisis and that the security of its people was in jeopardy. He emphasized how things had gotten better in Azamgarh under PM Modi's direction. He stressed improved respect and infrastructural development. Adityanath highlighted the need to eradicate both Naxalism and terrorism. He spoke at an Azamgarh gathering where PM Modi was present.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal kickstarted his campaign for Lok Sabha elections 2024 in Punjab with a mega roadshow in Amritsar along with Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann. Arvind Kejriwal held roadshow in favour of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidate Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal and paid obeisance at the Golden Temple in Amritsar. Voting for all 13 Lok Sabha seats of Punjab to happen on June 1.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra conducted a roadshow in Raebareli in Uttar Pradesh

West Bengal BJP chief, Sukanta Majumdar said, CM Mamata Banerjee knows that the situation within the state is not in her favour. Her core vote bank is going with Congress and CPI(M), so she is saying such things to stop this movement. She is not a part of any alliance. No one believes Mamata Banerjee at the national level. Mamata Banerjee in a rally earlier today had said that she will provide leadership to INDI alliance and help them in every way from outside, hinting at leaving INDI alliance

Former Congress leader Acharya Pramod Krishnam said, "Rahul Gandhi should worry about Congress first. He has destroyed Congress. He should not worry about the Constitution. The 140 crore people of the country are worrying about the constitution and they are going to choose PM Modi for the third term. Constitution is safe in the hands of PM Modi."

Maharashtra Minister Deepak Kesarkar said, "Polarization is the policy of Congress and if UBT join their hands with them then they will do a wrong thing.They will go against Bal Thackeray."

Each and every Mumbaikar has made up the mind to once again elect Narendra Modi and make him the Prime Minister, so that the country's future is secure and the city is secure and the state is progressing, says Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw

Congress MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury inquired about TMC chief Mamata Banerjee's reasons for suddenly quitting INDIA bloc. He said, INDIA alliance has been striding ahead and it is on the verge of forming a government, and this is why as an opportunist political leader she thought of extending support in advance so that her support to INDIA bloc will help her in fighting elections in West Bengal. She now understands the crude reality on the ground that voters are gearing toward the INDIA bloc alliance. Mamata Banerjee in this vortex of political environment will be isolated because she is the leader who once boasted of heading the alliance. What triggered her towards quitting the INDIA alliance? This has not been elucidated by her to date, he asked

--Addressing a public meeting in Pratapgarh in Uttar Pradesh, PM Modi claimed that INDIA bloc's agenda is to again impose Article 370 in J&K and abrogate CAA

--Running the country is not possible for the children born with a silver spoon. After June 4, Modi government will definitely form, but INDI alliance will also be broken and scattered. 'Shehzade' of Lucknow and Delhi will go on vacation, added Modi

--Talking about OBC reservation, PM Modi said, Congress has snatched OBC reservation in Karnataka and given it to Muslims. Congress wants to change the constitution and implement this rule across the country but SP, which has betrayed the backward classes, is silent on this. He said, SP and Congress re appealing for 'vote jihad' against Modi

Targeting BJP and BJD, Congress President Malliakarjun Kharge said, the open fight between BJD & BJP caused a lot of loss to Odisha. There is massive unemployment and inflation in Odisha. If we want to get rid of this, we will have to change both the governments - state and centre. He assured that Odisha is important state for Congress as many Congress leaders have come from Odisha. He also took a jibe at Naveen Patnaik saying, what development has happened here? Naveen Patnaik has served a state for 24 years and yet there is high unemployment.

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee held a roadshow in Purba Medinipur, in support of TMC candidate from Kanthi Lok Sabha seat, Uttam Barik.

Addressing a public rally in Madhubani, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said, cases of cow slaughter used to come from this area in huge numbers.This is the land of Mother Sita, cow slaughter is unacceptable here. Make PM Modi the prime minister for the third time and we will not allow cow smuggling or slaughter here. This is Narendra Modi's promise.

Addressing a rally at Bihar's Madhubani, Amit Shah inquired even if INDIA bloc wins, which I am sure won't happen, who will be its PM candidate. He asked people of Madhubani if Kashmir is ours or not. Speaking about Mallikarjun Kharge's comment about what people of Rajasthan, Bihar have to do with Kashmir?, Amit Shah said, Kharge still don't understand the country. Let me tell you that every child of Madhubani can sacrifice their life for Kashmir, he added.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav said, elections is a big fight and I thank all those who are supporting.The people want to listen to what the Constitution has to say instead of 'Mann Ki Baat'.

Addressing a rally at Bhadohi in Uttar Pradesh, PM Modi said, BJP has worked hard round the clock to change UP's image. I have not built house for myself, I have made houses for 4 crore poor families. He took a jibe at Samajwadi Party saying, BJP is pushing for 'one district, one product' but under SP's rule, it was 'one district, one mafia'. He said, appeasement links SP, TMC; these contractors of appeasement want to change India's identity. I am confident that even if I don't ask for anything, you will vote and send Lotus to Delhi with a huge margin. But, I have come to you today to seek your blessings, he added

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal in a rally said BJP is saying Kejriwal has to go to jail again.He asked people to vote carefully on May 25. He said, if you press the 'kamal' button I will have to go to jail but if you vote in support of the INDIA alliance candidate then I won't have to go to jail. So, keep in mind whether you want to send Kejriwal to jail or not.

Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde's luggage was checked by Election Commission officers in Panchavati, Nashik

'I want to congratulate them (BJP). It feels very good,' expressed one of the children who received praise from PM Narendra Modi during a public gathering in UP's Jaunpur. The statement reflects the positive impact of Modi's acknowledgement on the young attendees.

Addressing a public gathering in Bihar, Union Home Minister and BJP leader Amit Shah lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. Shah emphasized, "Our leader Narendra Modi worked to keep the country protected from Corona by providing double dose of vaccine." He contrasted this with the actions of Tejashwi Yadav and Rahul Gandhi, alleging, "During that time, Tejashwi Yadav and Rahul Gandhi were asking people not to take the vaccine calling it 'Modi tika (vaccine)." Shah commended the people of Bihar for rejecting this advice, stating, "It is good that people of Bihar don't listen to Rahul Baba... everyone got vaccinated." Shah's remarks underscore the BJP's campaign narrative focusing on vaccination efforts and contrasting it with opposition criticism.

Congress leader Pawan Khera remarked on the ongoing Lok Sabha Elections 2024, stating, "There is a wave of change in the entire country and UP is also moving forward in the direction of change." Khera criticized PM Modi, claiming, "PM Modi is tired, he has been the Prime Minister for 10 years. Any Prime Minister talking about dividing the country does not suit him... PM Modi gets scared while talking about the real issues." Khera's comments reflect the Congress party's perspective on the current political landscape and its stance on PM Modi's leadership.

Prime Minister declared, "Modi is giving you one more guarantee. Families have elderly people who are above 70 years of age, a huge amount of money goes into treating any ailments of these elderly people. So, Modi guarantees that any of your family member who is above the age bracket of 70 years, if they fall sick, then I will take the responsibility of their treatment." This assurance highlights the BJP's focus on healthcare and welfare measures for the elderly population.

Aparajita Sarangi, BJP leader and party MP from Bhubaneswar, expressed optimism about the prevailing mood for change in Odisha. Sarangi asserted, "There's an environment of change everywhere. There is no doubt that the people of Odisha want a government based on good governance and welfare of the poor." She suggested that if the BJD regains power, it would not signify the rule of Naveen Patnaik alone but rather the "PJD, Pandu Janata Dal." Sarangi's statement underscores the BJP's aspirations for a shift in governance dynamics in Odisha.

AAP leader and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal accused the BJP of aiming to secure over 400 seats in the Lok Sabha polls to abolish reservation. Kejriwal also reiterated his assertion that Home Minister Amit Shah would assume the role of Prime Minister, with Yogi Adityanath being ousted as Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister if the BJP returns to power. Speaking at a joint press conference with Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav, Kejriwal claimed, "The people of BJP have always been against reservation. They will change the Constitution and end reservation of SC/ST/OBC after coming to power."

Former Deputy CM of Bihar and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav reacted to Deputy CM of Bihar and BJP leader Samrat Choudhary's statement about the Lalu family becoming unemployed on June 4. Yadav retorted, "We gave employment to him. We made him Minister, MLA. We are positive persons. We give employment to people and they snatch." He suggested that Choudhary's relevance in the BJP depended on speaking against the RJD. Yadav remarked that if Choudhary gained respect by criticizing him and Lalu Yadav, then it was acceptable, indicating his party's resilience despite opposition attacks.

Union Minister and BJP leader Anurag Thakur asserted, "Modi ji did more work in 10 years as compared to work done by Congress in last 60 years." Citing a SKOCH report, Thakur claimed over 50 crore jobs were created in the last decade, leaving Congress with no substantial counterargument. He contrasted the Modi government's 5.5% inflation rate with Congress' double-digit inflation during its tenure, underscoring the BJP's economic achievements. Thakur's remarks emphasize the narrative of BJP's transformative governance under PM Modi.

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has summoned Bibhav Kumar, former Personal Secretary to Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, to appear before the commission tomorrow. Kumar faces accusations of assaulting AAP MP Swati Maliwal at the CM's residence in Delhi. The NCW's action highlights the seriousness with which such allegations are being addressed.

The Supreme Court declined to entertain the Enforcement Directorate's objection regarding Arvind Kejriwal's statement, where he purportedly mentioned that if people vote for AAP, he would not return to jail on June 2. Kejriwal's counsel cited a Union minister's statement regarding interim bail to the Delhi CM, prompting the court to welcome a critical analysis of its verdict. The court emphasized that no exceptions were made for anyone, reiterating that their order reflected what they deemed justified.

In reaction to Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi's recent jibe about Prime Minister Modi's spotless kurta, BJP Spokesperson CR Kesavan asserted, "The nation doesn't trust Nehru-Gandhi dynasty and doesn't believe in their misleading claims." He referred to an incident involving Shivraj Patil, who was Home Minister during the 2008 Mumbai attacks, highlighting his alleged changing of clothes thrice on that day. Kesavan criticized Congress for what he termed as "callous and inhuman behavior" and referenced Indira Gandhi's "Garibi Hatao" slogan, linking it to perceived failures under the Nehru-Gandhi dynasty. Kesavan praised Modi's governance, citing achievements in financial inclusion and asserting the provision of true secularism and social justice.

During an election gathering in UP's Lalganj, PM Modi lambasted the Congress, stating, "These (Congress) people climb the stairs of power taking the name of Mahatma Gandhi, but they don't remember the words of Mahatma Gandhi. Mahatma Gandhi had himself ensured these people (minorities living in neighbouring countries) that they can come to India whenever they want." He highlighted Gandhi's assurance and criticized Congress for neglecting minorities who sought refuge in India.

1. Initiation of CAA Implementation: PM Modi stated that the process of granting citizenship to victims of partition has commenced under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).

2. Allegations Against Opposition: Modi accused the Samajwadi Party and Congress of spreading misinformation about CAA, leading to potential unrest in the country.

3. Article 370 and Srinagar Elections: Modi highlighted the enthusiasm shown by the people of Srinagar in participating in elections as proof that Article 370 will not be reinstated, suggesting that political manipulation through vote-bank politics will fail.

4. Criticism of Opposition Parties: PM Modi criticized the Samajwadi Party and Congress, branding them as purveyors of appeasement, falsehoods, nepotism, and corruption.

5. Budget Allocation Allegations: Modi accused the Samajwadi Party and Congress of advocating for the division of the country's budget and allocating 15% specifically to minorities, implying divisive politics.

6. Yogi Adityanath's Governance: PM Modi commended Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for effectively implementing his cleanliness campaign in the state, targeting mafia, rioters, and extortionists.

Addressing a public meeting in Uttar Pradesh's Azamgarh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi drew attention to the transformation in governance under Yogi Adityanath's administration. Modi remarked, "You have seen the old days of SP's 'gundaraj'... Yogi ji has rightly implemented my 'swacchta abhiyan' against rioters, mafias, kidnappers, and extortion gangs in Uttar Pradesh." Modi's statement underscores the focus on law enforcement and the crackdown on criminal elements in the state under the leadership of Yogi Adityanath.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami lent his support to the BJP candidate from Ambala parliamentary constituency, Banto Kataria, during a public meeting in Yamunanagar, Haryana. Dhami's participation underscores BJP's efforts to garner support across state borders, emphasizing the party's united front in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

During a rally in Patna, Bihar, LJP (Ram Vilas) chief and Hajipur Lok Sabha seat candidate Chirag Paswan voiced skepticism over the clarity of the INDIA alliance's policy. Paswan highlighted the contradictory stance of AAP, contesting elections alongside Congress in Delhi while opposing them in Punjab. He likened the alliance's inconsistencies to the mythical character Bhanumati's family, implying confusion and lack of direction. Paswan expressed confidence in the NDA's performance, asserting that they were surpassing the target of 400 seats and had secured a majority in the first four phases of elections.

During a public meeting in Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on the opposition, declaring, "...It's Modi who has unmasked you. You are a hypocrite, communal. You left this nation to burn in communal fire for 60 years. I am saying it clearly, it's Modi's guarantee 'desh-videsh kahin se bhi, jo bhi taakat ikatthi karni hai kar lo'... You can't end CAA." Modi's remarks reflect his determination to confront opposition criticism and reaffirm his commitment to initiatives like the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).

Addressing a public meeting in Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath echoed the widespread sentiment, proclaiming, "Without waiting for 4 June, voice is coming from the entire country that 'Phir ek baar Modi sarkar'..."

BJP National Spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla condemned the alleged assault on Swati Maliwal, equating the incident to Draupadi's "cheerharan." He accused Kejriwal of silence and diversion tactics, suggesting his complicity in protecting Bibhav Kumar. Poonawalla questioned the silence of INDIA alliance members like Priyanka Vadra, Rahul Gandhi, and Sonia Gandhi on the issue, highlighting a perceived lack of accountability on women's issues.

AAP MP Sanjay Singh criticized Prime Minister Modi's silence on the Manipur incident and wrestler protests, alleging a lack of accountability. He accused PM Modi of seeking votes for Prajwal Revanna despite allegations against him. Singh also denounced the assault on Swati Maliwal, emphasizing the need for political integrity in addressing such issues. He urged BJP and PM Modi to address these concerns responsibly, stressing that politics should not exploit Maliwal's ordeal.

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal made a bold assertion in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, stating, "The trends show that BJP is getting less than 220 seats." He forecasted a decrease in BJP's seats across various states including Haryana, Delhi, Punjab, Karnataka, Maharashtra, West Bengal, UP, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Rajasthan. Kejriwal confidently proclaimed that the BJP would not form its government, indicating the rise of the INDIA alliance to power.

Recent allegations of assault against Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Swati Maliwal have sparked political controversy. Following accusations against Bibhav Kumar, a close aide of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, by a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, concerns over Kejriwal's involvement have intensified. BJP's Kapil Mishra's social media post, alongside comments from BJP National Spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla, suggest suspicions of a larger conspiracy. Swati Maliwal's ex-husband, Naveen Jaihind, has also voiced apprehensions, alleging potential danger to her life. AAP leader Sanjay Singh has publicly addressed the issue, pledging strict action against Bibhav Kumar. The unfolding events underscore the contentious nature of political confrontations in Delhi.

BJP MP and Sultanpur Lok Sabha constituency candidate, Maneka Gandhi, expressed confidence in the electorate, stating, "I am confident that whatever Sultanpur elects, will be good." She emphasized the importance of addressing challenges and highlighted the sentiment surrounding the Ram temple issue, noting that it resides in the hearts of the people. Gandhi affirmed her commitment to serving the people of Sultanpur with dedication and sincerity.

Exuding confidence in the ongoing Lok Sabha polls, Congress leader Sachin Pilot stated, "Our party's young candidate from North East Delhi is Kanhaiya Kumar, and he will win." He expressed certainty that INDIA alliance candidates would secure victory in all seven seats in the National Capital. Pilot emphasized the strengthening "wind of change" in the country and dismissed BJP's allegations regarding the declaration of the PM face. Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal also rallied in support of Congress candidates Udit Raj and Kanhaiya Kumar.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to hold rallies in Uttar Pradesh, commencing in Lalganj at 11 am, followed by Jaunpur at 12:30 pm, Bhadohi at 2 pm, and Pratapgarh at 3:45 pm. These rallies precede the fifth phase of Lok Sabha elections on May 20, encompassing 13 parliamentary seats in Uttar Pradesh.

The Election Commission has cancelled comedian Shyam Rangeela's nomination as a Lok Sabha candidate from Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Rangeela expressed his disappointment, stating, "It was decided that I won't be allowed to contest from Varanasi, now it is clear. My heart is broken, but my spirit is not," in a message shared on X.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National President JP Nadda criticized the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government in Odisha, alleging their involvement in bribing voters. Speaking at a public meeting titled 'Subhadra Yojana' in Bhubaneswar, Nadda stated, "This BJD government does the work of giving bribes for votes. An attempt is being made to snatch your right of five years for 54 paise per day." He further announced BJP's initiative under the leadership of Modi ji, offering cash vouchers worth Rs 50,000 exclusively for women in Odisha for the next two years through the Subhadra Yojana. Nadda emphasized that this allocation is directed towards women, empowering them to make independent decisions with the funds.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee declared that her party, Trinamool Congress, will offer external backing to the opposition INDIA alliance to establish the central government. Speaking at a rally in Hooghly, Banerjee dismissed BJP's claim of securing 400 seats, asserting widespread recognition of BJP's alleged corruption. She affirmed, "We (TMC) will support the INDIA bloc from outside to form a government at the Centre."

In a public rally in Amethi, Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge made a direct statement, saying, "... Modi Ji always says that everything is fine till he is there... He has given up on '70 years of Congress rule', now he talks about '55 years of Congress rule'..."

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