Top Politics News- IBNLive.com

SC order proves govt responsible: BJP on Ramlila crackdown

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 03:56:25 +0530

The BJP on Thursday said that the Supreme Court's order on the Ramlila crackdown proved that the government was responsible for the incident.

Team Anna meets EC, presses for electoral reforms

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 03:46:45 +0530

Anna Hazare and his team on Thursday met the Election Commission in a bid to raise the pitch for electoral reforms and demanded that 'right to reject' option be included in electronic voting machines (EVMs) and candidates against whom a court has framed charges be barred.

I quit over Mumbai polls debacle: Kripashankar

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 02:01:59 +0530

In a double blow to the Congress in Mumbai after the bad show in the municipal polls, party chief Kripashankar Singh has been made accused in a corruption case by the High Court. The announcement of Singh's resignation came soon after the Bombay High Court directed his prosecution on corruption charges.

My 'UP president rule' remark distorted: Jaiswal

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 01:15:18 +0530

Sriprakash Jaiswal said his statement was distorted and that he was confident of the Cong winning in UP.

What does 'Kolaveri Di' mean, asks Bihar CM

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 01:00:22 +0530

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar surprised many when he said he was fascinated by the hit song "Munni badnam Hui" of Salman Khan starrer 'Dabbang' and keen to know the meaning of the rage "Kolaveri Di".

WB killings: CPM bandh partially successful

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 12:27:23 +0530

The Left has come out strongly against the Mamata Bannerjee's govt for the death of a former CPM MLA Pradip Tah.

2G: Swamy moves SC challenging court order on PC

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 12:27:09 +0530

Janata Party President Subramanian Swamy filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging a Delhi Court's decision to dismiss his plea to make Union Home Minister P Chidambaram as a co-accused in the 2G scam.

Jaiswal pulled up for 'UP president rule' remark

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 12:11:23 +0530

Congress leader Sriprakash Jaiswal has been pulled up by the party for his remarks that if his party fails to get a majority in the UP polls, it will seek imposition of President's rule in the state. Sources said on Thursday that the party thinks that Jaiswal should not have made these comments.

Phoolan's controversial legacy alive in UP polls

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 11:08:27 +0530

Phoolan's dacoit gang earned notoriety for shooting dead 22 men, mostly upper caste Thakurs, in Behmai village, about 60 km from Kanpur, in 1981.

WB political killings: Mamata govt in trouble

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 11:08:13 +0530

Two CPI(M) leaders were hacked to death allegedly by Trinamool supporters in West Bengal on Wednesday. The recent spate of political killings in the state has left the Mamata Banerjee government red faced.

Karnataka: BSY trying to remove CM Gowda?

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 11:00:00 +0530

A political storm is brewing in Karnataka. Former Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa is now reportedly trying to remove his own nominee Sadananda Gowda from the post.

SP has chosen clean candidates: Akhilesh Yadav

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 10:42:33 +0530

The entire family of Samajwadi Party chief Mulayam Singh Yadav was out to vote in Saifai in Uttar Pradesh on Thursday as the state went to the fifth phase of polling. Saifai is Mulayam Singh Yadav's family bastion.

People of Uttar Pradesh feel proud to vote

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 10:22:23 +0530

An estimated 1.5 crore voters are expected to cast their vote on Thursday as UP goes into fifth phase of polling.

Swamy to file petition against PC, Sonia Gandhi

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 09:30:12 +0530

Janata Party president Subramanian Swamy will file two petitions on Thursday. One of the petitions is against special CBI court judge OP Saini's order against making Home Minister P Chidambaram a co-accused in the 2G spectrum scam case.

Jaya DA case: court to resume hearing today

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 08:58:34 +0530

A Bangalore court will resume hearing in the disproportionate assets case and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and AIADMK Chief Jayalalithaa's former close aide Sasikala will appear for the hearing.

Will act if rules have been violated: Nitish Kumar

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 07:59:17 +0530

Administrative Officer Nitish Kumar said that the action will be taken on the basis of the video footage that will be sent to the state government.

Assembly suspension: Vijaykant moves HC

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 07:54:55 +0530

Actor-politican Vijayakant of DMDK has moved the Madras High Court challenging February 2 Tamil Nadu Assembly resolution suspending him from the House for ten days following a recommendation by the privileges committee.

Indians killed: Italian minister meets Chandy

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 07:39:44 +0530

In the midst of the diplomatic row between New Delhi and Rome over the killing of Indian fishermen off Kerala coast, Italian Deputy Foreign Minister Steffan de Mistura on Wednesday night met Chief Minister Oommen Chandy in Kottayam.

UP: RSS workers 'manhandled', Uma protests

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 06:35:36 +0530

There was some high-voltage drama ahead of fifth phase of UP polls on Thursday. BJP leader Uma Bharti staged a dharna outside the Charkari Police station on Wednesday to protest the alleged manhandling of three RSS workers.

UP Polls: 50.16 pc voting recorded till 3 pm

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 06:16:51 +0530

Polling for the fifth phase of UP assembly elections covering 49 seats spread over 13 district, including Bundelkhand region, saw 50.16 per cent votes being cast till 3 pm.

Modi writes to PM over changes in RPF Act

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 03:53:58 +0530

After NCTC, it was the turn of a proposal to empower Railway Protection Force (RPF) with police powers that has come under attack from Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi.

2 WB CPM leaders killed, Mamata terms it infighting

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 02:06:31 +0530

Two Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPM) leaders, including a former legislator, were killed in a clash in West Bengal on Wednesday which the Left Front blamed on the ruling Trinamool Congress. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee linked the deaths to infighting within the CPM.

Mulayam eager on tie up with Congress: Rahul

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 12:49:17 +0530

Star campaigner Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said the Samajwadi Party was keen on forging an alliance with the Congress for the Uttar Pradesh Assembly poll but his party had rejected it.

Bhanwari case: Maderna seeks bail

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 12:02:43 +0530

Sacked Rajasthan minister Mahipal Maderna, arrested in Bhanwari Devi case, on filed a plea in a CBI court seeking bail on ground of attending to his sick father and participating in the assembly session. The move came after Maderna, who was arrested on December 2, refused to accept an official letter intimating him about the start of the session, as an apparent mark of protest.

BJP wants 'seamless response' to terror but not NCTC: Cong

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 11:53:37 +0530

The Congress on Wednesday sought to turn the table on BJP on the issue of NCTC saying it was the opposition party which had pleaded for a "seamless response" to terror in the wake of the 26/11 Mumbai strikes.

Katju sends notice to Chavan over press freedom

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 11:24:09 +0530

Press Council Chairman Markandeya Katju on Wednesday issued a show cause notice to Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan over attacks on journalists in the state and threatened to recommend to the President dismissal of the state government.

Is there a breakdown of trust between the Centre and states?

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 11:09:47 +0530

The Centre has to put many important proposals, like GST, FDI in retail, on hold following the opposition from states.

NCTC anti-federal, put it on hold: Mamata to PM

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 10:52:28 +0530

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata banerjee on Wednesday took the battle for federalism into Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's residence amidst the brewing Centre versus states clash over the proposed National Counter Terrorism Centre or the NCTC.

The Last Word: How deep are the India-Italy differences?

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 09:05:22 +0530

What is the solution to the India-Italy standoff on the fishermen deaths?

PM assures Mamata over NCTC, Farakka, Gorkhaland

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:52:59 +0530

During his meeting with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh assured Banerjee that her concerns over the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), the leakage in Farakka Barrage and the grant of Presidential assent to the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration Bill will be taken care of.

Kushwaha case: UP Lokayukta gets HC notice

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 07:02:48 +0530

The Allahabad High Court on Wednesday issued notice to Uttar Pradesh Lokayukta directing him to file his reply on a writ petition challenging recommendation of a CBI probe against former minister Babu Singh Kushwaha in graft cases.

Mamata meets PM, says NCTC anti-federal

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 06:45:56 +0530

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at 7 RCR and expressed her objection to the National Counter Terrorism Centre.

BJP holds road blockade in West Bengal

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 06:43:36 +0530

The BJP on Wednesday held a brief road blockade programme in West Bengal against the state government's 'indifference' to farmers' suicide and denial of support price to farmers.

Mumbai Cong chief quits after HC procecution order

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 05:58:22 +0530

The Bombay High Court on Wednesday directed Mumbai Police Commissioner Arup Patnaik to register an FIR against Mumbai Congress President Kripashankar Singh for criminal misconduct under the Prevention of Corruption Act and has asked the Commissioner to attach all immovable properties belonging to Singh and his family.

UP Lokayukta indicts Maya aide, recommends probe

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 04:44:21 +0530

The Uttar Pradesh Lokayukta on Wednesday recommended filing of an FIR against state Excise Minister Naseemuddin in a disproportionate assets case.

Welcome to the Cong's family republic of Goa

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 04:29:41 +0530

There is something extremely simplistic and sinister about the Congress party's strategy for the March 3 Assembly polls in Goa.

Govt open to talks on NCTC: Singhvi

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 02:34:55 +0530

Abhishek Manu Singhvi said that the Centre has never suggested that they are not open to consultations.

2 CPM leaders killed allegedly by TMC supporters

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 01:24:12 +0530

Two CPM leaders have died after allegedly being attacked by the Trinamool supporters on Wednesday. According to reports, Trinamool supporters attacked a CPM rally which was taken out in the Dewandighi area of Burdwan in West Bengal on Wednesday morning in support of the general strike called on February 28.

States are responsible for law and order: Yashwant on NCTC

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 01:11:01 +0530

Senior BJP leader Yashwant Sinha said that the BJP is against the Centre mounting this assault on the federal principles.

UP: Phoolan Devi's controversial legacy alive

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0530

A huge coloured photograph of Phoolan Devi, the bandit queen turned MP who was shot dead 11 years ago in New Delhi, adorns the wall of the first floor office of a shoe showroom.

Centre should call a meeting on NCTC: Farooq Abdullah

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 11:31:00 +0530

National Conference President Farooq Abdullah said that the Center has made a mistake by not consulting the states on NCTC.

J&K Education Minister asked to appear before SAC

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 11:20:34 +0530

Trouble seems to be rising for Jammu and Kashmir Education Minister Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed. Taking suo moto cognisance of the examgate row, the State Accountability Commission has asked him to appear in person on March 2.

Ghaziabad: RLD candidate weighed against laddoos

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 10:51:11 +0530

Candidates find novel ways to attract voters and supporters of Congress-RLD combine candidate Sudesh Sharma on Tuesday weighed him against laddoos which were later distributed among people.

Mamata likely to discuss NCTC with PM today

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 10:45:15 +0530

The Prime minister said that the Government has no intention to alter the federal structure enshrined in the Constitution.

Anna Hazare, team to meet in Delhi today

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:11:53 +0530

Anti-corruption crusader Anna Hazare will be in Delhi on Wednesday. Anna is likely to attend a core committee meeting to discuss the future strategy of his fight against corruption.

NCTC, Farakka Barrage: Can PM placate Didi?

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 07:10:42 +0530

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Wednesday and the issue of National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) is likely to be discussed in the meeting.

UP: Ajit Singh's son given a clear chit by EC

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 06:47:18 +0530

Rashtriya Lok Dal leader Jayant Chaudhary who was booked by the Election Commission for violating the model code of conduct, has been given a clear chit.

Digvijaya slams BJP, says Uma is 'imported' mascot

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 06:20:43 +0530

Congress general secretary Digvijaya Singh on Tuesday attacked the BJP saying he felt sorry that an 'outsider' from Madhya Pradesh had been projected as the party's Chief Ministerial candidate in UP.

UP: Rahul woos youths, promises jobs for them

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 02:02:07 +0530

Alleging youths had suffered a lot during BSP, SP and BJP regimes in Uttar Pradesh, Congress key campaigner Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday said his party, if voted to power, would generate adequate employment opportunities for them.

No difference between Congress, BJP: CPI

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 01:21:18 +0530

There is no difference between the Congress and BJP as both parties followed anti-people policies and were involved in massive corruption, CPI General Secretary AB Bardhan alleged on Tuesday.

States have a right to protest NCTC: Jaitley

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 01:06:35 +0530

The BJP on Tuesday said government's decision to form the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) through an executive order was a breach of the federal structure and demanded that the decision be kept in abeyance till a consensus is evolved with the states.

J&K: SAC notice to minister on exam paper issue

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:49:51 +0530

Taking suo-motu cognizane of alleged manipulation of his son's class X exam papers by Congress Minister Peerzada Mohmmad Sayeed, Jammu and Kashmir's anti-graft body State Accountability Commission (SAC) on Tuesday issued a notice to him and sought the police report from the state government.

Sanitation as important as defence: Jairam

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 09:59:53 +0530

In the upcoming budget to be presented on the March 16, Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation may see a hike in allocation that could be anything between 40 to 60 per cent, which means that the allocation could go up from approximately 9500 crore. Rupees to at least Rs 14,000 crore.

The Last Word: The EC and the Cong - who's more at fault?

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 09:30:42 +0530

Does the model code of conduct need revision or statutory status?

PM reviews 12th Five Year Plan preparation

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 09:25:27 +0530

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Tuesday reviewed the progress made in preparing the 12th Five Year Plan document, which envisages 9 per cent annual economic growth in the five-year period.

Model code row: GoM makes no recommendations

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 08:47:45 +0530

The Group of Ministers meeting on Wednesday to discuss the row with EC on the Model Code of Conduct, reportedly did not make any recommendations. There is reportedly no such move under contemplation by the government or the Group of Ministers, sources said.

EC grants personal hearing to Beni Prasad Verma

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 08:40:29 +0530

Steel Minister Beni Prasad Verma was on Tuesday granted personal hearing by the Election Commission to explain his minorities sub-quota remarks for which the poll body slapped a notice and he is likely to appear on Friday.

Communication gap led to cash seizure: Patil's son

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 08:24:10 +0530

An embarrassed Congress legislator and President Pratibha Patil's son Raosaheb Shekhawat Tuesday said a "communication gap" resulted in Rs 1 crore cash being seized by Maharashtra Police only days before the polls to major municipal corporations in the state.

Swamy to challange 2G ruling on Chidambaram

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 08:20:30 +0530

Janata Party President Subramanian Swamy on Tuesday said he would move the higher court within a week challenging a Delhi Court's decision to dismiss his plea to make Union Home Minister P Chidambaram as a co-accused in the 2G scam.

NCTC will not violate states' powers: PM

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 07:59:10 +0530

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh wrote a letter to the Chief Ministers of six states on Tuesday, convincing them that the NCTC will, in no way, affect the allocation of powers between the states and the Union. In his letter, Singh wrote that the primary purpose of the NCTC was to coordinate counter-terrorism efforts throughout the country and would be more like the IB in its functioning, one of the reasons why it had been placed under the IB, he stressed.

NCTC: PMO seeks response from Home Ministry

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 06:37:15 +0530

The Prime Minister's office (PMO) has finally acted on the huge opposition to the Central anti-terror body, National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), by several chief ministers from across the country.

Sadananda became CM by luck: Yeddyurappa

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 06:32:09 +0530

The power struggle within the ruling BJP in Karnataka intensified with sulking former Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa on Tuesday taking a dig at his successor DV Sadananda Gowda, saying luck propelled him to the post.

Patel request for probe in aircraft change by AI

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 06:10:25 +0530

In the thick of a controversy, Union Minister Praful Patel on Tuesday urged Civil Aviation Minister Ajit Singh for a thorough probe into the change of aircraft by Air India allegedly to accommodate his family members on a trip to Maldives in 2010.

Ask people why I am confident, says Mayawati

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 05:31:14 +0530

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati has claimed that her government has done more for the state than the Congress, the Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) put together.

Government is making EC toothless: Jaitley

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 04:04:30 +0530

BJP leader Arun Jaitley on Tuesday criticised the UPA government for interfering in the matters related to powers of the Election Commission, saying it is making the Constitutional authority toothless.

Govt may take model code out of EC's purview

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 03:49:18 +0530

The war of words between the Congress and the Election Commission on model code of conduct is escalating with the latter saying that there will not be any compromise on the issue of poll code violation.

Govt hasn't discussed NCTC with us: Omar

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 03:33:11 +0530

Omar Abdullah restrained from clearly opposing the NCTC and said that he'll give his response to the MHA.

Receiving political threats in Bhanwari case: CBI

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 02:47:14 +0530

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday told the Rajasthan High Court that it was receiving threats and its witnesses in the Bhanwari Devi case were being forced to turn hostile.

AP liquor racket: Cong ministers being probed

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 01:49:49 +0530

Top Congress leaders and government officials in Andhra Pradesh are being probed by the police in connection with the liquor racket in the state. According to sources, some top leaders of the ruling Congress may be involved in the racket.

Cong was given permission for roadshow: Sibal

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 01:26:39 +0530

Union Minister Kapil Sibal on Tuesday defended Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi over the controversy surrounding his roadshow in Kanpur as part of the campaign for the Uttar Pradesh assembly elections.

Cong was given permission for roadshow: Sibal

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 01:26:39 +0530

Cash row: President's son appears before police

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 01:05:30 +0530

resident Pratibha Patil's son Rajendra Shekhawat appeared before the police commissioner to record his statement in connection with a notice given to him by the Amravati district collector after Rs 1 crore of unaccounted cash was seized from a vehicle before last week's civic elections.

DA case: SC issues notice to Jayalalithaa

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 12:49:35 +0530

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued a notice to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalitha in the 1991 disproportionate assets case. Madras High Court had quashed on September 30 the DA case against Jayalalithaa saying that there was a delay by the CBI in filing the FIR. CBI had appealed against the Madras HC order on which Supreme Court has issued notice to Jayalalithaa.

FIR against Rahul: Congress to move HC

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 11:46:51 +0530

Congress leader Digvijaya Singh on Tuesday said that the party will go to High Court to contest the FIR filed against Rahul Gandhi.

Mamata to discuss Farakka deal with PM on Feb 22

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 09:59:09 +0530

West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC Chief Mamata Banerjee is scheduled to arrive in Delhi ahead of her meeting with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh that's scheduled for Wednesday. Mamata is expected to flag her concerns about the Farakka Barrage and Gorkhaland.

UP: Rahul, Mayawati, Mulayam on campaign trail

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 09:04:09 +0530

In a run-up to the UP polls, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will campaign in Mainpuri, Bulandsahar, Etah and Meerut on Tuesday. An FIR was on Monday filed against Rahul Gandhi, on the campaign trail in Uttar Pradesh, for alleged violation of model code of conduct by district authorities which said his road show here had breached the time limit and the route map set by them.

Patnaik, Jayalalithaa write to PM on NCTC again

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 08:46:54 +0530

Pressure has been building on the Centre over its move to set up the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC). Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa have both written second letters to the Prime Minister on the issue.

Beni's subquota remark a 'criminal offence': BJP

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 04:48:24 +0530

The BJP on Monday alleged the statements made by union minister Beni Prasad Verma on sub-quota for minorities despite warnings from the Election Commission constitute a "criminal offence" and demanded appropriate criminal proceedings should be initiated against him.

Efforts on to destabilize UP: Mayawati

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 04:25:10 +0530

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati has alleged efforts were underway to destabilise the state once again for political motives.

Nitish, Patnaik, Jaya write to PM against NCTC

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 03:28:43 +0530

The clamour against the proposed anti-terror hub continued on Monday with Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar writing to Prime Minister Manmonhan Singh expressing his opposition while his Odisha and Tamil Nadu counterparts Naveen Patnaik and Jayalalithaa sent second letters seeking dialogue between the two sides.

'Cong's mining allegations for political gains'

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 02:31:42 +0530

Former Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa on Monday said Congress has levelled allegations against him in the mining scam for "political gains".

Will be happy if Cong does well in UP: Pawar

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 12:22:43 +0530

After his party emerged as largest in local body polls in Maharashtra, NCP chief Sharad Pawar on Monday said he would be happy if Congress does well in Uttar Pradesh.

UP polls: Rahul invites EC's wrath for changing track

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 11:56:00 +0530

While Rahul Gandhi courted trouble as he toured Kanpur, being greeted with black flags from ulema supporters and inviting the EC's wrath for changing his roadshow route, BJP President Nitin Gadkiri said that if the BJP came to power in Uttar Pradesh, Uma Bharti will become the chief minister.

Rahul committed no illegality in Kanpur: Congress

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 10:03:40 +0530

Rahul Gandhi, who was booked for alleged violation of the model code of conduct by UP authorities in Kanpur, has not committed any illegality and legitimate campaign is a fundamental part of free democratic right, Congress said on Monday night.

Is politics or the concept itself the problem with the NCTC?

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 09:45:37 +0530

Today we examine the differences separating the UPA Government and perhaps as many as 12 state governments over the National Counter-Terrorism Centre.

FIR against Rahul for violating code of conduct

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 08:59:18 +0530

An FIR has been filed against Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi for alleged model code of conduct violation by not taking up the route it had prescribed to the leader for his road campaign in Kanpur.

Love Bob Dylan, Steve Jobs: Chavan

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 08:38:29 +0530

What have we done to deserve a CM who did his masters from University of California, Berkeley, reads Rene Descartes, enjoys sushi and listens to the Doors and Bob Dylan?

'Sena's strong foundation helped retain power'

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 07:33:20 +0530

Fresh from his victory in the Mumbai civic polls, Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray has hit out at critics for predicting doom for his party saying it has been able to retain power in the civic body because of its strong foundation.

Mulayam mocks Maya's claim of 'fearless society'

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 07:29:42 +0530

Samajwadi Party supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav on Monday ridiculed Chief Minister Mayawati for promising a fearless society, alleging that 1,900 incidents of rape had taken place in the state during BSP tenure.

RSS, BJP mulling another term for Gadkari

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 06:42:53 +0530

Murmurs of BJP President Nitin Gadkari getting another term have been growing louder as the RSS top brass continues to repose its faith in him and is happy that he is leaving no stone unturned in improving the party's prospects in Assembly elections since he took over.

NCTC: Nitish writes to PM, takes a strong line

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 05:28:37 +0530

Terming as "unilateral and hasty" the proposal to set up the National Counter-Terrorism Centre, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday asked the Prime Minister to re-examine the issue and ensure the order is suitably modified to take care of states' genuine concerns.

Cong promises free water, power in Goa manifesto

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 05:24:56 +0530

Free water and electricity to poorer sections of society are two of the key promises made by the Congress in its poll manifesto, released on Monday, ahead of the March 3 assembly elections in Goa.

Kanpur: Rahul shown black flags during road show

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 05:13:48 +0530

Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi on Monday invited the Election Commission's wrath by not taking up the route it had prescribed to the leader for his road campaign in Kanpur. Kanpur District Magistrate Hari Om said that Rahul stuck to his route, despite having been assigned an alternative route by the EC.

Quota remark part of the manifesto: Beni Prasad

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 04:46:00 +0530

In his reply to Election Commission's showcause notice over the minorities' sub-quota remark, Union Steel Minister and Congress leader Beni Prasad Verma on Monday said that the quota remark was part of the party manifesto.

SC ruling on 2G will affect other sectors: Sibal

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 03:15:54 +0530

The Supreme Court judgement cancelling 122 telecom licences allocated on first-come-first-serve basis has ramifications for other sectors like mining where the same principle is adopted, Telecom Minister Kapil Sibal has said.

PMO seeks 2G info ahead of budget session

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 03:01:59 +0530

Bracing for a stinging opposition attack on 2G issue during budget session of Parliament, the Prime Minister's Office has asked the telecom department to give full details on the corruption cases.

Ajit Singh's son caught on camera taking cash

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 01:11:59 +0530

Rashtriya Lok Dal leader Jayant Chaudhary has been booked by the Election Commission for violating the model code of conduct. The MP from Mathura and party chief and Civil Aviation Minister Ajit Singh's son was caught on camera taking Rs 70,000 from a local leader during an election rally in Mathura.

Mamata to meet PM over financial package for WB

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:06:28 +0530

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Wednesday to demand financial package for the state.

UP: Rahul, Gadkari to campaign in Kanpur today

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 07:53:42 +0530

After wooing the minority support base in Chamanganj on Sunday, Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi is slated to continue to campaign in Kanpur district for the fifth phase of Uttar Pradesh assembly elections on Monday.

Muslim quota row: Beni Prasad to reply to EC today

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 06:39:23 +0530

Union minister and Congress leader Beni Prasad Verma is expected to reply to Election Commission's notice for violating the model code of conduct.

Trivedi wants more budget support for Railway safety

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 05:31:46 +0530

Railway Minister Dinesh Trivedi on Sunday said the huge funds required for implementing safety measures in railways cannot be generated by fare hike alone and the Centre must give a huge budgetary support for it.

Stones pelted at Salman Khurshid's wife

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 04:20:32 +0530

Some youths on Sunday allegedly pelted stones at Louis Khurshid, Congress nominee and wife of Union Law Minister Salman Khurshid, following a dispute over entry of voters at a polling booth.

Only Left has alternative economic policies: Karat

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 03:46:41 +0530

Blaming the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government's faulty policies for the poor and farmers' plight, the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) on Sunday said only the Left parties had alternative economic policies and would work to rally anti-Congress and anti-Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) left and democratic forces.

Goa polls: Promises galore in BJP manifesto

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 03:26:26 +0530

Goa BJP on Sunday released its manifesto, making several promises, including reduction in price of petrol by Rs 11 a litre and unemployment allowance to youths, once the party is elected to power in the state.

Mulayam will bring back 'gunda raj': Mayawati

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 01:17:52 +0530

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati on Saturday said that "gunda and mafia raj" would return to the state if the Mulayam Singh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party came to power in the assembly polls.

UP has moved backward under BSP rule: Advani

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:33:13 +0530

BJP leader LK Advani on Sunday claimed that while other "BIMARU" or 'sick' states had shown improvement, Uttar Pradesh has moved backward during the last five years of BSP rule.

CPI(M) should not exist: Mamata Banerjee

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:15:40 +0530

Charging the CPI(M) with "lying" to the people of West Bengal throughout the 35 years of Left Front rule, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said on Sunday that such a political party "should not exist". "Such a political party should not exist. Throughout the Left Front rule of 35 years, it had lied to the people. During its rule, it has looted farmers, the future of unemployed youth and even the Nobel (medallion of Rabindranath Tagore)," Banerjee said while flagging off trains in presence of Railway Minister Dinesh Trivedi at the Howrah station.

Mulayam will bring back 'gunda raj' in UP: Maya

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 11:46:12 +0530

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati on Saturday said in Firozabad that 'gunda and mafia raj' would return to the state if the Mulayam Singh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party came to power in the Assembly polls.

NCTC: Congress faces backlash from allies, Oppn

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 10:38:59 +0530

In a sign of more trouble for the UPA, the chorus of voices against the National Counter-Terrorism Center (NCTC) has grown withing the ruling coalition. After numerous Chief Ministers from NDA-ruled states, the UPA's own allies have spoken out against the anti-terror body. Sources say that the National Conference and the DMK are unlikely to support the NCTC. Earlier, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata had opposed the move claiming it usurped the powers of states.

Kolkata rape: TMC defends Mamata's comment

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 10:10:11 +0530

The first woman Chief Minister of West Bengal is in a spot. Just days after she said that the 37-year-old woman from Kolkata, who was raped at gunpoint in a moving car, was a part of a bigger conspiracy to malign her government, the arrest of 3 people by the police has embarrassed her. The opposition is furious.

Nashik will have MNS mayor: Raj Thackeray

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 09:01:59 +0530

In a move that could spell trouble for the Shiv Sena, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) is reportedly considering a tie up with the BJP to rule the Nashik municipal corporation.

UP polls: Lucknow sees best ever voter turnout

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 08:03:51 +0530

Lucknow saw a record voter turnout of 56 per cent, a 20 per cent increase from the 2007 turnout. Chief Minister Mayawati and BJP leader Sushma Swaraj cast their ballots today.

UP 4th phase polling sees 57 pc turnout

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 07:15:16 +0530

An estimated 57 per cent votes were polled in the fourth phase of Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections which covered Rae Bareli and Amethi, bastions of Nehru-Gandhi family, and part of backward Bundelkhand region, for whose development Rahul Gandhi has made a strong case.

Modi opposes NCTC, says states not consulted

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 04:10:02 +0530

Accusing the Centre of double speak, Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said though the UPA government claimed that security was a "shared" responsibility of the Centre and states, it did not bother to consult states when it came to forming laws.

Mamata's remarks in Kolkata rape unfortunate: CPM

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 03:33:22 +0530

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is facing opposition fire for rubbishing the rape victim's complaints as a conspiracy.

Paid news: EC issues 167 notices to candidates

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 03:20:18 +0530

In the ongoing Assembly polls for five states, the Election Commission has so far issued 167 notices to candidates who allegedly paid for the publication of news in their favour in various media outlets.

Centre wants to steal powers of the state: Modi on NCTC

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 02:00:30 +0530

Sources say that the National Conference and the DMK are unlikely to support the NCTC.

Kolkata rape case: Cong slams Mamata's remarks

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 01:54:42 +0530

Mamata had earlier rubbished the victim's complaints as a conspiracy to malign her government.

BSP will do better than last time: Mayawati

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 01:40:59 +0530

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati expressed confidence on Sunday that her party would win the 2012 elections and again form the government in Lucknow.

Uttarakhand CM Khanduri opposes NCTC

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 01:20:08 +0530

Accusing the Centre of "infringing" on federal rights of the states, Uttarakhand Chief Minister BC Khanduri on Sunday opposed the proposed National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC).

I still stand by my Batla House comment: Digvijaya

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 01:03:38 +0530

Congress General Secretary Digvijaya Singh on Sunday said that he never looked to stir up controversies, and the allegation that he spoke out only against Hindu terrorism was wrong.

PC concerned over growing Maoist influence in Assam

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 12:52:38 +0530

Union Home Minister P Chidambaram on Sunday expressed concerned over growing Maoist influence in Assam and their links with insurgent outfits of the state as well as Pakistan's intelligence agency ISI.

UP is ready for a change: Kalraj Mishra

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 11:51:19 +0530

BJP leader Kalraj Mishra the BJP will get more votes and you will see a revolutionary change in UP.

NCTC row: NC, DMK unlikely to support the law

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 11:26:00 +0530

Appointments of advisors legal: J&K govt

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 09:27:45 +0530

The Jammu and Kashmir government has said the appointments of politicians as advisors and vice-chairpersons to various boards were legal and within the constitutional limit.

UP Polls: Rita Bahuguna casts her vote

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 09:16:04 +0530

Lucknow is voting in the 4th phase of the UP polls and fate of several key candidates including Kalraj Mishra and Loius Khurshid will be decided .

12 percent quota for STs in Telangana state: KCR

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 09:04:00 +0530

HYDERABAD: The Telangana Rashtra Samiti has promised 12 per cent reservation to Lambadas and other Scheduled Tribes in education a..

NDA's doors open for Mamata: Balbir Punj

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 08:02:05 +0530

The BJP on Saturday said, "We are not surprised at the differences created between Congress and Mamata Banerjee."

UP polls: 57 pc voting during 4th phase

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 07:24:09 +0530

Polling for the fourth phase of Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections covering 56 seats spread over 11 districts recorded a high 57 per cent turnout till 5 pm.

About time the Govt did away with Mamata?

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 12:12:37 +0530

Yet another bombshell has been dropped on the Congress-led Centre by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, this time over excess drainage of water from the Farakka barrage to Bangladesh. In a strongly-worded letter to the Prime Minister, Banerjee called the Centre's delay in repairing two sluice gates of the barrage a criminal conspiracy.

Battle for the States: The Mahila Vote

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 11:56:20 +0530

Why the women in Uttar Pradesh continues to be a political paradox.

UP polls: Shun Cycle, Elephant: Rahul to voters

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 11:23:59 +0530

Wooing voters in Mulayam Singh Yadav's home turf, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday targeted both the SP chief and BSP supremo Mayawati alleging they had done nothing for development of Uttar Pradesh.

Modi favouring corporates over SMEs: Congress

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 11:02:00 +0530

Gujarat Congress on Saturday accused Chief Minister Narendra Modi of ignoring the issues concerning small and medium enterprises (SMEs) for the sake of corporate bigwigs.

'UP ministers had gala time while poor suffered'

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 10:53:56 +0530

The poor in Uttar Pradesh suffered while Mayawati's ministers earned thousands of crores by siphoning off Central funds meant for the state, Congress leader Salman Khurshid on Saturday alleged.

Sena a force to reckon with: Bal Thackeray

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 08:04:22 +0530

Bal Thackeray in an exclusive interview to CNN-IBN slammed Sharad Pawar and Prithviraj Chavan for saying the Shiv Sena was on the decline.

Farraka issue: Mamata alleges criminal conspiracy

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 07:37:28 +0530

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has reportedly alleged in her letter to the Prime Minister concerning the Teesta water-sharing pact that the Farraka barrage was a "man-made disaster, planned on the one hand with finesse and aplomb, to plunge West Bengal into a crisis and on the other hand, to provide 'water' bonanza to Bangladesh".

Shekhar Suman resigns from Congress

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 07:06:22 +0530

Television star Shekhar Suman Saturday resigned from the Congress and hinted that he may join another political party in a few days. He said he had informed Congress president Sonia Gandhi as well as the state Congress party president about his decision to resign from the party.

Amar Singh jumps out of chopper, injured

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 06:55:25 +0530

Former Samajwadi Party strongman and Rashtriya Lok Manch founder Amar Singh has reportedly been injured after he jumped out of a helicopter while it was making an emergency landing at Hamirpur in Uttar Pradesh.

BMC polls: People have put faith on us, says Uddhav Thackeray

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 05:54:10 +0530

Following the victory in Mumbai and Thane, Shiv Sena Executive President Uddhav Thackeray said people liked the work of the party.

Winning BMC polls a proud feeling: Aditya Thackeray

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 05:30:55 +0530

Youva Sena chief Aditya Thackeray said he is elated after the fourth victory of Shiv Sena in Mumbai and Thane civic polls.

BMC polls loss: Cong high command seeks report

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 05:17:16 +0530

The Congress high command has reportedly sought a report from the Maharashtra Congress after its Brihan Mumbai Corporation (BMC) poll debacle. The Shiv Sena-BJP combine won the polls, managing to retain power in the prestigious civic body, the country's richest. This was the first civic elections in Mumbai where the Congress was contesting in an alliance with the NCP.

Teesta water sharing: Foreign secy meets Mamata

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 04:23:56 +0530

Foreign Secretary Ranjan Mathai is reportedly meeting West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in a bid to settle the Teesta water sharing agreement. The West Bengal CM had earlier written a letter to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh raising objections over the Farakka Barrage water-sharing with Bangladesh.

Women want mobile phones not toilets: Ramesh

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 04:07:58 +0530

Jairam Ramesh on Friday expressed concern that the government's Total Sanitation Campaign (TSC) is being seen as a 'token sanitation campaign' and rued that women were demanding mobile phones but not toilets.

Now, Mamata objects to Farakka Barrage deal

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 03:49:07 +0530

After raising objections over the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC Chief Mamata Banerjee has written another letter to the Prime Minister objecting over the Farakka Barrage water-sharing with Bangladesh.

Goa results will go the Mumbai civic poll way: BJP

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 02:15:34 +0530

Results of the Goa assembly elections will go the way of the Mumbai civic polls, a top BJP leader said on Saturday.

Goa polls: JGP releases list of 12 candidates

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 02:10:12 +0530

A musician, a priest and an actor are among the 12 candidates offered by the Jagrut Goemkarancho Fauz, a conglomeration of civil society groups, for the March 3 Goa Assembly polls.

Muslim quota row: EC notice to Beni Prasad

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 01:31:04 +0530

The Election Commission (EC) issued a notice to Union Minister Beni Prasad Verma over remarks on minority sub quota.

Chidambaram praises Mamata govt in Bengal

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 01:07:42 +0530

Lauding the Mamata Banerjee-led government in West Bengal for bringing about considerable change in Maoist-hit areas, Home Minister P Chidambaram on Saturday said the Naxal problem affecting worst-hit Junglemahal has been substantially controlled.

Jaya DA case: Sasikala breaks down in court

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 12:16:39 +0530

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa's former aide Sasikala Natarajan broke down in court on Saturday during her questioning in the disproportionate assets case involving Jaya. Sasikala was questioned for the first time in the disproportionate assets case on Saturday.

National security is a joint responsibility of Centre, State: PC

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 11:36:35 +0530

Home Minister P Chidambaram said that Centre's approach on issues like terrorism and Naxalism is uniform and not state-specific.

Rahul, Akhilesh, Jayant: Young faces of UP dynasties

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 11:11:17 +0530

For Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav and Jayant Chaudhary, out to prove they are worthy inheritors, this could well be a make-or-break election.

Notice issued to Omar over advisor appointments

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 10:47:35 +0530

The State Accountability Commission (SAC) has served notices to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and others in a case challenging the appointment of several of his advisors. They have been asked to file a response by the March 5.

Punjab politicians holiday, play poll games

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 10:46:57 +0530

With the election to the 117 assembly seats having been held on Jan 30 and counting and results to take place only on March 6, Punjab's leaders have invented activities to stay occupied.

NCTC row escalates, Mamata snubs PC

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 10:15:08 +0530

The States vs Centre battle over the anti-terror body National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) has escalated. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee snubbed the UPA yet agains and remained absent from the inauguration of a National Security Guards (NSG) hub in Kolkata on Saturday. The NSG hub was inaugurated by Home Minister P Chidambaram.

Centre playing games: Naveen Patnaik on NCTC controversy

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 09:49:26 +0530

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik says the notification for the National Counter Terrorism Centre was passed without consultation with states.

Chidambaram to inaugurate NSG hub in Bengal

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 08:24:08 +0530

Union Home Minister P Chidambaram is likely to visit West Bengal on Saturday to inaugurate a National Security Guards (NSG) hub. The visit comes amidst the controversy over Chidambaram's brainchild, National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), an anti-terror intelligence hub.

Odisha CM slams UPA, NDA; proposes new front

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 07:55:42 +0530

Dubbing the ruling UPA as "discredited" and "corruption ridden" and NDA as "communally tainted", Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Wednesday mooted an alternative front to provide a transparent government at the Centre.

UP Polls: Vote and secure marks for your kids

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 07:42:59 +0530

Politics is every where in Uttar Pradesh this season - even in class rooms. At Lucknow's Christ Church College - a post-poll alliance has been struck between the principal and his 300 plus students.

Maharashtra CM 'shocked' by BMC poll results

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 07:31:06 +0530

In what came as a major setback for the Congress and the NCP, the first big electoral battle of 2012 has gone in favour of the Shiv Sena-Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) combine that managed to retain power in the prestigious Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the country's richest civic body.

Jubilance, disappointment after Maha civic polls results

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 05:34:31 +0530

There was jubilance, disappointment and confidence in different political camps as the results of elecctions to the 10 municipal corporations in Maharashtra were declared on Friday.

Cong involved in friendly fight with SP, BSP: Jaitley

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 04:27:17 +0530

The Congress is involved in a "friendly fight" with Samajwadi Party and BSP in Uttar Pradesh elections as it requires either of them for running its government at the Centre, BJP leader Arun Jaitley said on Friday.

Gadkari should focus on his work: Congress

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 03:27:00 +0530

Reacting sharply to Nitin Gadkari's criticism of Rahul Gandhi, Congress on Friday told the BJP president that he should focus on his work and "not become an astrologer".

FM to meet financial sector regulators today

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 01:41:02 +0530

In a pre-Budget meeting on Saturday, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee is likely meet top economic regulators, including RBI Governor D Subbarao, SEBI Chairman UK Sinha and IRDA Chairman J Hari Narayan, to discuss the roadmap ahead for the financial sector.

Montek silent on special status demand by Bihar

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 01:09:18 +0530

Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia on Friday kept mum on the state government's demand to the Centre for according special category status to Bihar to bring in private investment for industrial development.

Pune polls: NCP is single largest party

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 12:23:38 +0530

It was deja vu in Pune as the intensely fought polls for the 152-strong Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) ultimately threw up a hung House with NCP once again emerging the single largest party bagging 51 seats and Raj Thackeray-led MNS coming second in the final tally with 29 seats, relegating Congress to a poor third.

UP polls: Priyanka trying her best not to eclipse Rahul

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 12:10:05 +0530

Priyanka Gandhi made it clear that she's not entering active politics anytime soon.

Is Bal Thackeray still the boss of Mumbai?

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:31:05 +0530

The Shiv Sena-BJP combine retain Thane and Nagpur as well; NCP emerges as the single largest party in Pune.

'Pandya spoke of Modi complicity in Guj riots'

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 10:55:17 +0530

In fresh problems for Narendra Modi, a member of people's tribunal that visited Gujarat after 2002 riots said former Home Minister Haren Pandya had told them that the Chief Minister allegedly directed the police to give Hindus a free hand to vent their anger during the riots.

Khurshid defends Verma on minority quota remark

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 10:28:02 +0530

Union Law Minister Salman Khurshid on Saturday defended his Cabinet colleague Beni Prasad Verma for his minority sub-quota remarks, saying he had made the comments as a Congress leader and not as a minister.

NCTC: 8 CMs take on UPA, Cong downplays threat

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 10:22:44 +0530

The United Progressive Alliance (UPA) faced a fresh crisis on Friday after eight chief ministers came out against a proposed powerful counter-terror intelligence hub, saying it infringed on the rights of states.

Nashik: MNS followed by NCP, Shiv Sena

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 09:56:45 +0530

The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) of Raj Thackeray has emerged as the single largest party in the Nashik Municipal Corporation polls, as per the results that have come so far. The MNS managed to get 36 seats out of the 105 seats of which the results have been as of now.

Maya rubbishes surveys showing BSP faring badly

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 09:45:35 +0530

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati on Friday rubbished media surveys that projected BSP to be in bad position in the Assembly polls and reminded voters that her party had got majority in 2007 despite similar predictions.

Nagpur: Ruling BJP emerges as single largest

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 09:39:46 +0530

Though the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set to emerge as the single largest party in the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC), it received a jolt when the party candidate and Mayor Archana Dehankar and her deputy Shekhar Sawarbandhe of the ally Shiv Sena lost the polls.

Goa: Will not depend on independents, says Cong

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 09:35:24 +0530

Goa Congress on Friday clarified that in case the party falls short of the majority in the upcoming Assembly polls, it will not depend on the independent candidates to form the government.

Pune: Raj Thackeray's MNS springs a surprise

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 09:25:11 +0530

The Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) on Saturday sprung a surprise by wresting 29 out of 152 seats of Pune Municipal Corporations.

UP: Sibal demands CBI probe into NRHM deaths

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 08:22:57 +0530

Union Minister Kapil Sibal on Friday questioned Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati's silence on the mysterious death of yet another man connected with the NRHM scam and demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into all related cases to bring out the truth.

Maha polls: No party gets clear majority in Akola

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 07:49:57 +0530

No party has won a clear majority in the Akola Municipal Corporation, as the results of Thursday's election came in on late Friday afternoon. The Congress and the BJP, with 18 seats each, are the biggest parties in 73-member House.

NRHM scam: Six booked in accountant's murder

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 07:01:33 +0530

Mayawati faced the heat on the multi-crore NRHM scam on Friday even as six health officials including the chief medical officer were booked on charges of criminal conspiracy and murder of an accountant in connection with the corruption case.

Five CMs oppose National Counter Terror Centre

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 06:32:05 +0530

Naveen Patnaik, Narendra Modi, Mamata Banerjee, J Jayalalithaa and Shivraj Singh Chauhan opposed creation of National Counter Terror Centre.

Mumbai has faith in us, says an overwhelmed Uddhav

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 06:14:02 +0530

Expressing satisfaction over the results of civic polls in Mumbai and elsewhere in Maharashtra, Shiv Sena executive president Uddhav Thackeray told reporters outside Matoshri residence in suburban Bandra this afternoon that he was "overwhelmed".

People have dismissed the Cong-NCP alliance: Shiv Sena

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 06:07:18 +0530

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut said that the alliance with RPI has helped the party in the Maharashtra civic polls.

Maneka demands resignations of Beni, Khurshid

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 06:02:06 +0530

Alleging that Congress has made a mockery of the Election Commission, BJP leader Maneka Gandhi on Friday demanded resignations of union ministers Salman Khurshid and Beni Prasad Verma.

Cong clever in committing scams: Akhilesh

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 05:51:29 +0530

Samajwadi Party on Friday accused Congress of being "very clever and intelligent" in committing scams like 2G as it was difficult to explain the issue to the electorate.

Mayawati misused funds for rural health: PM

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 05:31:56 +0530

Attacking the Mayawati government ahead of the fourth phase of polling in Uttar Pradesh, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Friday charged it with misusing the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) funds as well as neglecting development.

Overall BMC results will benefit Cong-NCP: Pawar

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 05:07:13 +0530

NCP chief Sharad Pawar said that the Congress contested in 70 per cent of the seats in Mumbai.

NHRM killings in UP to erase proof: BJP

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 04:58:05 +0530

People connected to the NRHM and other scams are being murdered in order to eliminate proofs, said Mukthar Abbas Naqvi.

BMC goes to Shiv Sena-BJP, NCP leads in Pune

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 04:52:18 +0530

The Bharatiya Janata Party-Shiv Sena combine is set to retain their dominance in the Mumbai civic polls, moving ahead of the Congress-Nationalist Congress Party alliance.

We will review shortcomings: Raj Thackeray

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 04:47:33 +0530

MNS chief Raj Thackeray day kept on Friday mum on whether he would extend support to Shiv Sena-BJP-RPI alliance in its bid to retain power in the civic body of India's financial capital.

BMC results a slap on Cong-NCP's face: Shiv Sena

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 03:43:39 +0530

The Shiv Sena on Friday said the verdict in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) polls was a slap on the face of the Congress-NCP alliance. "Mumbaikars have slapped Congress-NCP on the face," Shiv Sena MP and spokesperson Sanjay Raut said.

Kudankulam: 4-member panel meets Jayalalithaa

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 03:38:19 +0530

A four-member panel on the Kudankulam nuclear power plant on Friday met Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa, following which it said that the report would be submitted "as soon as possible".

Congress will win in UP: Manmohan Singh

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 03:16:44 +0530

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Friday kicked off the Congress campaign from Kanpur on Friday. Addressing the crowds, he said, "We have sent funds under various national schemes to Uttar Pradesh. Rs 24000 crore have been given to Uttar Pradesh government for roads alone. However, none of it has trickled down to the common man."

Priyanka tears into opposition in Raebareli

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 01:55:43 +0530

The Congress' star campaigner Priyanka Gandhi on Friday took addressed a volley of issues ranging from the NRHM deaths in Uttar Pradesh to alleged funds misuse in the state to Beni Prasad's quota remark. Priyanka was campaigning in Raebareli. While speaking on alleged funds misuse in the state, she said, "Money that is being sent to the UP state under health schmes is not reaching the people. The money is being kept by a few in the state."

Priyanka tears into opposition in Raebareli

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 01:55:43 +0530

Maha civic polls: Nagpur Mayor from BJP loses

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 01:41:03 +0530

In an upset, ruling BJP's outgoing Mayor Archana Dehankar and Deputy Mayor Shekhar Sawarbandhe of Shiv Sena have lost to Congress nominees in their respective seats, as counting of votes for Nagpur Municipal Corporation is underway.

Maha civic polls: Sena-BJP combine retains Thane

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 01:18:30 +0530

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Shiv Sena retained Thane in the Maharashtra civic polls. The Shiv Sena-BJP alliance took the top spot in the Thane Municipal Corporation polls on Friday.

Rebels threaten Goa parties ahead of polls

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 01:08:28 +0530

As the March 3 assembly polls inch closer, rebellion has surfaced in Goa's political ranks, with those who have been denied party tickets threatening to raise the banner of revolt.

UP: BJP complains to EC over Beni's quota remark

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 12:23:01 +0530

The BJP has registered a complaint with the Election Commission against Congress leader and Steel Minister Beni Prasad for allegedly promising 9 per cent quota for Muslims during an election rally. At a public rally in Farrukhabad, the Prasad said, "Muslims will be given more facilities, Muslims will be given reservation."

Mamata opposes National Counter Terror Centre

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:32:22 +0530

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has written a letter to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh registering her opposition to the establishment of the National Counter Terrorism Centre. She apprehends that the state's control over law and order may be undermined. Home Minister P Chidambaram had announced recently that the work on the NCTC will begin from March.

Mumbai polls: Sena-BJP set to retain power

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 10:05:22 +0530

Counting of votes for the richest civic body in India, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) indicated that the leads were in favour of the Shiv Sena-BJP alliance. However, it looks unlikely for the combine to be able to hold a majority.

Mumbai: Congress MLA in EVM tampering row

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 08:58:09 +0530

In new trouble for the Congress, MLA Amin Patel on Thursday was accused of storming a polling station in Byculla, Mumbai and tampering the EVM machine at the booth. Amin Patel is the Congress candidate from the Mumbadevi constituency.

UP health centre clerk smothered to death: report

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 08:02:33 +0530

The post-mortem report of the UP health centre clerk who was found dead on Thursday confirmed that he had been smothered to death. The incident took place in Lakhimpur Kheri. The body of a health department clerk Mahendra Sharma was found in a semi-decomposed state. He had been missing since February 7.

UP Polls: PM, Advani, Maya pitch tent in Kanpur

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 07:50:59 +0530

All eyes will be on Kanpur on Friday as Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, BJP leader LK Advani and BSP chief and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati launch their campaigns there. Singh will be addressing a rally at the Moti Jheel grounds in the afternoon.

Update: Mumbai civic polls: Shiv Sena+ takes early lead

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 07:14:22 +0530

Poll result for the country's richest municipal body, the Maharashtra Civic Polls, will be out on Friday. The Shiv Sena-BJP alliance took the initial lead in the richest civic body Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

'India should not be a playground for global feuds'

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 01:57:26 +0530

Terming the attack on Israeli diplomat's car in New Delhi on Monday as a "matter of grave concern", Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj on Thursday said that India should not be made a playground for any international conflict.

Almost 33 pc posts lying vacant in Gujarat: Cong

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 01:36:01 +0530

The Congress on Thursday alleged around 33 per cent posts in various Gujarat government departments were vacant, leading to unreasonable delay in carrying out public work.

Modi criticises PM for remarks on malnutrition

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 12:40:41 +0530

Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday took a dig at Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for alleged inaction on the issue of eradicating malnutrition from the country.

I want to be king not kingmaker: Raj Thackeray

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 10:08:02 +0530

All eyes are on Raj Thackeray with the MNS expected to emerge as the kingmaker in the BMC elections.

Cong only knows how to grab headlines: Swaraj

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 09:37:35 +0530

Taking potshots at Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi's act of tearing up a poll manifesto, BJP leader Sushma Swaraj on Thursday said the party just wants to 'grab headlines' through such acts.

Video opened up accidentally: Karnataka ministers

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 09:33:51 +0530

The three tainted MLAs of Karnataka, in their reply to the Karnataka Vidhan Sabha Speaker in the obscene video case, on Thursday told Joint House Committee that they had no intention of watching obscene content on their mobile, and it opened up accidentally.

Mumbai fails ballot test with just 46 pc turnout

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 09:22:39 +0530

Mumbai on Thursday failed the ballot box test with only 46 per cent of Mumbaikars turning out to elect the people to run the maximum city. Mumbai's movers and shakers refused to budge on election day. At last count, a dismal 28 per cent of people from SoBo, as south Mumbai is fashionably called, turned out to vote.

EC seeks BJP comments on Ram temple construction

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 09:14:45 +0530

The Election Commission has sought BJP's comments on the promise in its manifesto for Uttar Pradesh poll of construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya following complaints that the party has "violated" the model code of conduct by making the promise.

Andhra Pradesh government budget website hacked

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 08:18:37 +0530

Just a day before the budget for 2012-13 financial year was to be presented in the Andhra Pradesh Assembly, an unidentified hacker broke into the official government website budget.ap.gov.in, sending the state administration into a tizzy.

Low voter turnout a reality for big Indian cities

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 07:10:16 +0530

It seems that words are not transforming into action for big Indian cities when it comes to participating in large numbers to vote their favourite candidates in polls. Despite a high urban base with more discerning and affluent electorate, witnessing a low turnout in elections, local or general, is adage for these cities.

Opinion: Will it be Rahul Vs Priyanka?

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 07:05:13 +0530

Rahul Gandhi may be the Congress heir apparent, but will Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's evident charm and latent capability pitch her into the fray too?

Govt to talk to all parties for consensus on Lokpal

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 06:53:18 +0530

The government on Thursday said it would talk to all political parties, including the BJP, to evolve a consensus on the Lokpal Bill which is pending with the Rajya Sabha.

TMC takes on Cong over Muslim quota promise

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 06:40:07 +0530

Trinamool Congress MP Sultan Ahmed on Thursday lodged a complain with the Election Commission on the Muslim quota row, saying that ministers should not be allowed to say things on the controversial issue, after Congress MP Beni Prasad Verma promised reservation for Muslims at a public rally in UP. He said that the EC should not allow Steel Minister Beni Prasad Verma to campaign for the UP polls.

Kanpur gears up for high profile poll rallies

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 03:56:38 +0530

The local administration is scurrying to put up the paraphernalia for two high profile election rallies by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati in Kanpur on Friday.

UP: Public health centre clerk found dead

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 02:17:05 +0530

The National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) Scheme has been facing more murk in Uttar Pradesh. The body of a clerk from the health department Mahendra Sharma was found at a public health centre in Lakhimpur Kheri.

Vote to get rid of fear, backwardness: Priyanka

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 02:11:00 +0530

Exhorting the electorate to vote for Congress to get rid of fear and backwardness, Congress star campaigner Priyanka Gandhi on Thursday asked people to exercise their franchise for a new trend in politics which is dedicated to people.

HC reserves order on PIL seeking Khurshid's removal

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 12:29:07 +0530

The Allahabad High Court reserved its order on a PIL seeking removal of Union Law Minister Salman Khurshid for his remarks on reservation for minorities.

Sleaze row: K'taka MLAs reply to showcause notice

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 11:56:41 +0530

The three tainted MLAs of Karnataka have filed reply to the Karnataka Vidhan Sabha Speaker in the obscene video case. Speaker KG Bopaiah had issued showcause notices to them after they were caught watching porn in the Assembly.

After Khurshid, Beni Prasad makes quota promise

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 11:34:59 +0530

After the Election Commission shut the Salman Khurshid Muslim quota promise chapter, Steel Minister Beni Prasad Verma has also made a similar promise.

Sleaze row: K'taka BJP in damage control mode

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 10:25:11 +0530

In Karnataka, the porn scandal continues to sting the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The three tainted ministers are likely to submit their explanations to the Speaker on Thursday. Meanwhile, the state government is planning to ban news channels from covering Assembly proceedings now on.

Amethi: Cong's 'lucky mascot' was the 1st to vote

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 09:40:11 +0530

In Amethi that went to vote on Wednesday, a peculiar custom played out at a polling booth. It was democracy at work at a polling station.

BMC polls: 22 per cent voter turnout till 3 pm

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 06:24:05 +0530

Civic polls, to decide the fate of over 1,244 candidates in Mumbai and nine municipal corporations of Maharashtra began on Thursday. Polling was underway across 10 municipal corporations including Mumbai.

Maya ignores common man, promotes corrupt: Rahul

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 05:32:26 +0530

As Uttar Pradesh voters voted in the third phase of Assembly elections on Wednesday, Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi kept up his attack on Chief Minister Mayawati and alleged that the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) leader did not mingle with the common man and her rule has been marked by corruption.

Goa illegal mining scam worth $423 million: TMC

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 03:18:24 +0530

Trinamool Congress president in Goa Wilfred de Souza on Wednesday said he had a glimpse of Justice MB Shah commission report on illegal mining and that the document pegged a revenue loss of $423 million in the form of illegal ore export.

Modi thanks people for supporting sadbhavna mission

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 12:27:13 +0530

Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday thanked the people of his state for their support to his sadbhavna mission.

Battle for the states: Is UP heading for a fractured verdict?

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:59:37 +0530

The incident-free third phase of the seven-part elections in the state will decide the fate of three cabinet ministers.

Amethi: Royal tradition on voting day

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:32:22 +0530

In Amethi, that went to vote on Wednesday, a peculiar custom played out at a polling booth - the Raja, the Rani and the Dhobi.

UP polls: EC ends Khurshid row after his regret

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 10:23:33 +0530

The Election Commission on Wednesday put a lid on the standoff with Law and Minorities Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid after he expressed regrets over his "defiance" of the poll body over his remarks on sub-quota for minorities in government jobs in Uttar Pradesh.

Centre creating barriers in UP's development: Maya

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 08:53:30 +0530

Alleging the Centre was creating hindrances in development of Uttar Pradesh, BSP chief and Chief Minister Mayawati on Wednesday said the economic package sought by the state was not given to it.

Cong accuses Modi of 'misrule and non-governance'

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 07:26:33 +0530

Congress on Wednesday accused the Narendra Modi government of "misrule and non-governance" after the Gujarat High Court issued a contempt notice to it for not obeying its order to compensate people whose shops were burnt in the post-Godhra riots.

UP polls: Rahul 'tears' into BSP, SP in Lucknow

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 06:57:59 +0530

Accusing the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and the Samajwadi Party (SP) of making "only promises", Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday tore a piece of paper at an election meeting to drive home the point that "mere lists" of assurances were of no use.

UP polls: 3rd phase records around 56 pc turnout

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 06:55:45 +0530

Around 56 per cent of the 1.75-strong electorate on Wednesday exercised its franchise for 56 seats in the third phase of the UP assembly polls in which Mayawati's ruling BSP is facing a strong challenge from Congress, SP and BJP.

Trinamool website hacked, restored

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 06:39:26 +0530

The website of the ruling Trinamool Congress in West Bengal was on Wednesday restored, a day after it was hacked reportedly by a Bangladesh-based group.

Elect Cong govt for UP's development: Priyanka

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 05:38:58 +0530

Wooing voters in her family pocketborough, Congress' star campaigner Priyana Gandhi on Wednesday asked people to elect a Congress government in Uttar Pradesh for rapid development of the state.

Mulayam says will support Congress if needed

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 03:21:02 +0530

Samajwadi Party Supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav on Wednesday said he was open to supporting the Congress Party in Uttar Pradesh if needed even as he claimed that the SP will form the next government in the state.

Gujarat riots: Modi govt gets contempt notice

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 02:22:43 +0530

The Gujarat High Court has issued a contempt notice against the Narendra Modi government in a compensation case regarding the 2002 riots. In 2011, the High Court had ordered compensation in a rioting case where 12 shops were burnt in Ahmedabad.

2002 Gujarat riots: SIT report in court, crucial day for Modi

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:32:10 +0530

An Ahmedabad court will decide whether the SIT report, which was submitted on Feb 8 should be made public or not.

Mullaperiyar: Kerala seeks time to submit report

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:17:40 +0530

The Mullaperiyar central empowered committee met on Wednesday in Delhi. The Kerala government also submitted a plea to the empowered committee seeking more time to submit its report. The committee is yet to consider the plea.

Sleaze row: BJP to hold training for ministers

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 10:55:39 +0530

Reeling under the porngate scandal involving three of its members, the ruling BJP in Karnataka on Tuesday decided to hold a training session for its ministers and legislators to teach them discipline and morality.

UP polls: Over 47 per cent voting till 3 pm

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 10:39:53 +0530

Brisk polling continued in the third phase of UP Assembly elections for 56 seats in 10 districts with 47.05 per cent of the over 1.75 crore electorate exercising their franchise till the late afternoon.

TN: Vigilance raid on ex-DMK minister

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 09:42:54 +0530

The Vigilance department conducted raids on former DMK minister Thangam Thennarasu in Tamil Nadu on Wednesday.

BMC polls: Raj Thackeray most preferred leader

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 08:58:53 +0530

MNS chief Raj Thackeray is Mumbai's most preferred leader according to an IBN Lokmat- GFK Mode opinion poll. He is followed by Uddhav Thakeray, who is a distant second.

UP goes for third phase of voting today

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 07:17:16 +0530

The stage is set for voting in all the 12 Assembly constituencies of this district where the fate of nearly 250 candidates will be sealed on Wednesday. 1.77 crore voters are expected to cast their ballots on Wednesday.

Guj riots: verdict on access to SIT report today

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 06:44:41 +0530

The metropolitan court in Ahmedabad on Wednesday will decide if the SIT probe report against Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi and 61 others into the Gulbarg Society massacre should be made public. The court will also take a decision on whether the SIT should submit the pertinent documents before the court.

May consider reduction of diesel subsidy: Reddy

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 02:58:21 +0530

Petroleum Minister Jaipal Reddy on Tuesday said his ministry may consider at an appropriate time to reduce the subsidy it incurs on selling cheaply diesel and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders.

EC to act on Khurshid after hearing from PM

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 02:34:19 +0530

Even as Law Minister Salman Khurshid "bowed" to the "wisdom" of the Election Commission and regretted his remarks on sub-quota for backward sections of minorities in Uttar Pradesh, the case will be decided only after word from Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, highly placed sources in the poll panel said.

Rahul put to test as Amethi goes to polls today

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 01:11:16 +0530

With at least three Assembly constituencies falling under the Amethi parliamentary seat going to polls on Wednesday, the third phase of polling in Uttar Pradesh will put to test the charisma of Rahul Gandhi, who represents the Lok Sabha seat.

Battle for Mumbai: who is best suited to govern the city?

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 11:57:04 +0530

Mumbai even the most optimistic amongst us would admit has been overtaken by several other Indian cities on indices of livability.

Rahul's charisma at stake, Amethi votes on Wed

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 11:35:56 +0530

With at least three Assembly constituencies falling under the Amethi parliamentary seat going to polls tomorrow, the third phase of polling in Uttar Pradesh will put to test the charisma of Rahul Gandhi, who represents the Lok Sabha seat.

Raj will have to take the first step: Bal Thackeray

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 10:57:29 +0530

Right before Mumbai civic polls, Bal Thackeray has extended an olive branch to Raj Thackeray.

EC uses Valentine to promote voting

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 09:21:36 +0530

Election Commission on Tuesday used the occasion of Valentine's Day to encourage young couples to exercise their right to vote and spread the message of voting being the strength of democracy.

2G: A Raja likely to file review petition in SC

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 08:56:19 +0530

Former Telecom Minister A Raja is expected to file a petition in the Supreme Court seeking a review of its judgement in the 2G spectrum licence case which he feels can go against him in the criminal trial.

EC: Ministers can tour Manipur, Punjab, Ukd

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 08:28:52 +0530

With polling for assembly elections in the states of Manipur, Punjab and Uttarakhand completed, the Election Commission on Tuesday decided to relax the conditions for model code of conduct, allowing ministers to undertake tours and review ongoing projects.

Acharya, a rare politician of integrity

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 06:36:22 +0530

A medical practitioner by profession, Dr Vedavyasa Srinivasa Acharya was a rare politician known for his integrity and public probity. Karnataka Higher Education Minister, who died after massive heart attack during a function in Bangalore on Tuesday, became President of Udupi Municipality at the age of 28 in 1968, playing a key role in bringing the erstwhile Jana Sangh to power.

Sub-quota row a closed chapter now: Khurshid

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 06:32:27 +0530

In the eye of a storm over his Muslim sub-quota remarks and the subsequent face-off with the Election Commission, Union Law Minister Salman Khurshid on Tuesday said the matter was a closed chapter now.

Fodder scam: Lalu, Jagannath Mishra deny charges

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 05:52:07 +0530

Two former Bihar chief ministers, Lalu Prasad and Jagannath Mishra, have denied charges made against them in a case related to the multi-crore rupee fodder scam.

EC yet to decide on Khurshid matter: Quraishi

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 05:25:40 +0530

The Election Commission on Tuesday said it has not yet taken a decision on the letter of Union Law Minister Salman Khurshid regretting his controversial remarks on the minorities sub-quota issue.

Top Uttarakhand BJP leaders to woo voters in UP

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 05:16:33 +0530

Uttarakhand Chief Minister B C Khanduri and other senior state Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders will campaign for party candidates in the remaining phases of the Uttar Pradesh assembly election.

UP being misgoverned, funds siphoned off: Sonia

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 02:29:48 +0530

Congress President Sonia Gandhi and her daughter Priyanka, addressed a rally in Raebareli on Tuesday. Addressing the crowds, Sonia said that the UP government was not doing enough for the state. "The funds released for development work in UP has not reached the people of UP," she said.

UP Polls: Sonia, Priyanka to campaign in Raebareli

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 01:17:01 +0530

Congress President Sonia Gandhi and her daughter, Priyanka, are expected to speak at a public meeting on Tuesday in Raebareli as the campaigning for UP Assembly polls reaches its final stages.

Fodder case: Lalu appears before special CBI court

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 01:16:19 +0530

Former Bihar chief minister and RJD supremo Lalu Prasad on Tuesday appeared before a special CBI court which recorded his statement in connection with a fodder scam case.

Furore over British MP's political outing in Goa

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 01:04:42 +0530

British MP of Indian origin Keith Vaz's electoral campaigning on Sunday for a controversial political family in Goa has triggered outrage in the Goan diasopra and on internet.

Sub-quota row: After EC relief, Salman faces FIR

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 12:29:04 +0530

While the Election Commission has decided to close the issue on Salman Khurshid, a new problem has cropped up for the Law Minister. A lawyer has filed an FIR against Khurshid in Farroukhabad for allegedly violating the Representation of People Act.

EC decides to close Khurshid chapter

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 11:40:26 +0530

The Election Commission has decided to close the matter on Salman Khurshid after the latter wrote to the EC saying he had the highest regard for the institution. The Union Law Minister has been facing the Election Commission heat over a Muslim sub-quota remark that he made at an election rally in Uttar Pradesh recently.

Jagan MLAs want all bypolls held together

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 10:42:00 +0530

HYDERABAD: All the 16 Congress and one PRP MLA, who are in YS JaganMohan Reddys camp, urged the Election Commission to hold the b..

Jayalalithaa takes a swipe at Karunanidhi

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 10:37:00 +0530

TIRUCHY: In an obvious response to DMK chief M Karunanidhis criticism of the AIADMK governments rehabilitation package for distr..

UP gears up for third phase of polling tomorrow

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 10:14:17 +0530

Polling for the third phase of UP Assembly elections for 56 seats in 10 districts would be held on Wednesday that will decide the fate of three cabinet minister, a minister of state, 29 sitting MLAs and 14 former ministers.

DMK schemes helped MK, Kin: Jayalalithaa

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 10:13:00 +0530

TIRUCHY: Comparing the welfare schemes of the AIADMK government with those of the previous DMK government, Chief Minister J Jayala..

BMC polls: The menace of potholes remains

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 10:05:22 +0530

Mumbai's crumbling infrastructure is best exemplified by the city's potholed roads. An RTI filed by CNN-IBN reveals how Rs 60 crore were spent last year alone. This is double the budgeted expense to smoothen the roads, and it's the taxpayers' money that has gone down many potholes.

No patch-up with Uddhav, says Raj Thackeray

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 08:31:39 +0530

Responding to his uncle Bal Thackeray's invitation to him to rejoin the Shiv Sena, MNS chief Raj Thackeray said on Monday that he was ready to take a hundred steps for his uncle, but none for his son, Uddhav.

'Willing to walk a hundred steps for Bal Thackeray'

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 06:49:37 +0530

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray, who parted ways with the Shiv Sena in January 2006, on Monday night said he was willing to "walk a hundred steps" for his uncle Balasaheb Thackeray and added that the doors of his party were always open for the Sena founder.

Shiv Sena indestructible, says Bal Thackeray

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 02:04:37 +0530

Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray on Monday asserted that his party was "indestructible" and the Congress could not finish it off even if it had "seven more lives".

Salman writes to EC, says quota a manifesto issue

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 12:08:24 +0530

Union Law Minister Salman Khurshid, who has been facing the Election Commission heat over the issue of minority quota, on Monday wrote to the constitutional body. He told the election body that he respects the institution and also the Election Commission for the decision it takes.

Action against Salman Khurshid unlikely

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 08:19:46 +0530

Action against Union Minister Salman Khurshid as demanded by the Election Commission for his defiance on the subquota issue appears unlikely.

Trinamool in Goa like mushroom in monsoon: Cong

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:18:52 +0530

The Congress on Monday compared the newly-emerged Trinamool Congress in Goa to a mushroom growing in the monsoon, saying the party had just come up at the height of the electoral season and would not have much impact.

Priyanka commits faux pas, retracts quickly

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:37:44 +0530

Priyanka Gandhi on Monday committed a faux pas naming Madhya Pradesh, ruled by arch rival BJP, as one of the fast developing states, a 'slip of the tongue' she corrected immediately.

Only Cong can ensure development in UP: Rahul

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 05:53:09 +0530

Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi on Monday alleged hooliganism and casteism reared their ugly heads and development took a back seat during the successive non-Congress regimes in the state in the past 22 years.

Khurshid Law Minister or 'lawless' minister: BJP

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 05:39:43 +0530

Lashing out at Union Law Minister Salman Khurshid for his spat with the EC over the issue of quota for minorities, BJP President Nitin Gadkari on Monday termed him as a 'lawless' minister.

PM should sack Khurshid: BJP

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 05:15:53 +0530

Questioning the PMO's 'silence' on the controversy involving Law Minister Salman Kurshid, the BJP on Monday said the Prime Minister should sack the minister without delay as he is still unrepentant.

Guj riots: Court order on SIT report on Feb 15

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 03:11:42 +0530

An Ahmedabad court will pass its order on the SIT report on the Gulbarg Massacre during the 2002 Gujarat riots on February 15.

Congress is protecting Khurshid: Javadekar

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 02:16:14 +0530

BJP leader Prakash Javadekar said on Monday that the Congress was protecting its Law Minister, Salman Khurshid by not taking any action against him. "If the Law Minister does not respect the law, who will? No action has been taken against the minister despite the EC's complaint," he said.

BMC polls: Mumbai's waterfronts back in focus

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 01:56:59 +0530

As political parties battle it out to capture the control of Mumbai's civic administration, the city's neglected waterfronts are back on priority, being poised for a makeover. But the question is whether plans to transform the island's coast's will ever become a reality.

Khurshid free to express his views: Priyanka

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 01:50:06 +0530

In what could be a potential embarrassment for the Congress, Priyanka Gandhi said on Monday that Salman Khurshid was "free" to express his opinions and so was the Election Commission. Referring to the ongoing row between the Union Law Minister and the Election Commission over a Muslim sub-quota remark that he made during a rally in the state, Priyanka said that people were free to express their feelings in a democratic country.

K'taka MLAs seek more time to reply to showcause

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 01:13:04 +0530

Three former Karnataka Ministers on Monday sought a week's extension to file reply to the showcause notices issued by Speaker KG Bopaiah on the porn-watching episode in the Legislative Assembly.

UP Polls: Cong MP Azharuddin issued notice

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 01:01:25 +0530

A notice has been issued to Congress MP and former cricketer Azharuddin for allegedly violating the model code of conduct by distributing shawls in an election meeting in Farukhabad, officials said on Monday.

Andhra Budget Session begins on a stormy note

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 01:00:09 +0530

The Budget Session of Andhra Pradesh Legislature got off to a fiery start on Monday with the Opposition parties staging a walk out during the customary address by Governor ESL Narasimhan to the joint session of the Assembly and Council.

PM may intervene in Khurshid-EC row

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 12:58:11 +0530

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is likely to discuss with senior ministers and party leaders the Election Commission complaint against Law Minister Salman Khurshid for his aggressive stance on quota for Muslims in Uttar Pradesh, Congress insiders said.

SIT report on riots in court; Modi optimistic

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 12:47:55 +0530

Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi remains optimistic as the court of Metropolitan Magistrate MS Bhat in Ahmedabad is set to hear the Special Investigation Team's (SIT) closure report on the Gulbarg massacre during the 2002 riots.

2002 riots: Teesta says she received death threats

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 12:43:24 +0530

Social activist Teesta Setalvad claimed on Monday that she was receiving death threats ever since the SIT report on the 2002 riots was submitted to the Gujarat court.

Mumbai corporation polls: Bal Thackeray slams Chavan, Pawar

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 12:07:04 +0530

Three days before the crucial Mumbai corporation elections, Bal Thackeray in an exclusive interview to CNN-IBN slams Sharad Pawar and Prithviraj Chavan for saying the Shiv Sena is on the decline.

Timeline: Zakia Jafri's plea against Modi

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 10:59:13 +0530

An Ahmedabad court will on Monday hear the closure report filed by the Supreme Court-appointed Special Investigation Team in the Gulbarg society massacre in the 2002 riots. It will also hear the petitions of social activists Teesta Setalvad and Mukul Sinha seeking copies of the report filed in a sealed envelope last week.

Rebels galore in Congress for Goa Assembly polls

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 10:32:48 +0530

The Congress in Goa is in a bind as the aspirants who have failed to secure party tickets are vowing to queer the pitch for the official nominees for March 3 Assembly polls.

Jagan MLAs get ready to ambush government

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 09:28:00 +0530

HYDERABAD: With the speaker deciding against disqualifying the MLAs who are in the Jagan Mohan Reddy camp for the time being, all ..

2002 riots: Court hearing crucial for Modi

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 09:27:00 +0530

The court hearing of the SIT report on the Gulbarg society case in the 2002 riots will not just have legal, but political implications as well. It will make clear whether Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi can move out of the state to national politics.

Fodder scam: CBI court summons Lalu, Mishra

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 08:39:01 +0530

A special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court on Monday summoned two of former Bihar chief ministers - Lalu Yadav and Jagannath Mishra - in connection with the fodder scam case. The two are likely to appear before a Ranchi court on Monday to record their statements regarding the fraudulent withdrawal of Rs 37 crore from the Chaibasa treasury.

Sleaze row: K'taka MLAs to reply to showcause

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:59:40 +0530

The Karnataka Assembly ministers caught in the porngate scandal - CC Patil and Lakshman Savadi - are expected to reply to the showcause notices issued to them by Assembly Speaker KG Bopaiah, on Monday. The two ministers were caught watching an obscene video on former Mangalore in-charge Minister J Krishna Palemar's mobile phone.

Gujarat court to hear SIT report on 2002 riots

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:32:15 +0530

Maya responsible for plight of women in UP: Rahul

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 12:13:02 +0530

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday blamed Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati for the sorry plight of women in the state.

Mamata asks CPM to stop negative criticism

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 11:24:07 +0530

In an apparent reference to the CPI(M)'s accusation that her government lacked a clear policy in various sectors, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Sunday asked the party not to indulge in negative criticism and warned it against resorting to bandhs.

K'taka to begin fresh Lokayukta selection process

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 10:06:31 +0530

After its vain bid to install former Kerala Chief Justice SR Bannurmath as the Lokayukta, Karnataka Government is set to start afresh on Monday the consultation process for picking a new candidate and hoped to complete the exercise in about ten days.

EC row: PM likely to call meeting tomorrow

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 09:33:54 +0530

24 hours after the Election Commission complained about Law Minister Salman Khursid to the President, he maintains, his sub-quota promise was part of the Congress manifesto.

I have not defied the EC: Salman Khurshid to PM

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 09:20:22 +0530

Union Law Minister Salman khurshid spoke to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Sunday, clarifying that he has not defied the Election Commission. He said that quota was part of the party poll manifesto.

Expel Khurshid from Cabinet: Gadkari

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 08:48:43 +0530

Terming Congress leader Salman Khurshid's remarks on minorities sub-quota as an 'election stunt', BJP president Nitin Gadkari on Sunday demanded his 'expulsion' from the Union Cabinet.

KNPP: Congress slams Jaya

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 07:47:55 +0530

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa has been making "contradictory statements" on the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KNPP) issue after initially supporting it, former Union minister and Congress leader EVKS Elangovan alleged on Sunday.

Uma blames Sonia for poverty in Rae Bareli

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 07:31:15 +0530

Taking on Sonia Gandhi in her constituency, BJP leader Uma Bharti on Sunday blamed the Congress for backwardness and poverty in Rae Bareli.

Bal Thackeray open to Raj return to Shiv Sena

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 06:58:43 +0530

The Shiv Sena Chief Bal Thackeray on Sunday doesn't rule out accepting estranged nephew Raj Thackeray back in the Shiv Sena but says Raj will need to take the first step.

EC entitled to petition President: Khurshid

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 06:46:10 +0530

Breaking his silence on the Election Commission's directive against him, Law minister Salman Khurshid on Sunday said that the Constitutional institution is entitled to petition President. He also said that the quota promise is part of Congress party's manifesto.

Rahul Gandhi a risk worth taking in UP polls: Aiyar

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 06:15:12 +0530

Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar said that it will not be the end of the road for Rahul Gandhi if the Congress does not perform well in the Assembly elections in the politically-crucial state.

BSP, SP's poll promises misleading: Rahul Gandhi

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 05:52:04 +0530

Training his guns on the BSP and the Samajwadi Party, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday said corruption and scams were rampant during their regimes.

Jaitley demands Khurshid's resignation over quota remarks

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 05:33:36 +0530

The EC's letter has been forwarded by President Pratibha Patil to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

Khurshid should not behave irresponsibly: CPM

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 04:57:49 +0530

Criticising Union Minister Salman Khurshid for his "defiant stance" against the Election Commission, CPI(M) leader Prakash Karat on Sunday said "people occupying responsible positions must not talk and behave irresponsibly".

'SP, BSP supported UPA to save leaders from probe'

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 04:39:55 +0530

Attacking both SP and BSP for supporting Congress-led UPA government at the Centre, senior BJP leader Rajnath Singh on Sunday charged both parties with supporting it for "saving" their leaders from CBI probe.

Modi holds his last 'Sadbhavna fast' today

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 03:46:01 +0530

Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi is observing his final 'Sadbhavna Mission' fast at Ambaji in north Gujarat on Sunday.

UP: Rahul, Priyanka hit the campaign trail together

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 02:41:20 +0530

Ahead of the third phase of Assembly polls in Uttar Pradesh, Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi and his sister Priyanka Gandhi have hit the campaign trail together. Both Rahul and Priyanka are in Sultanpur to woo the voters. The two are expected to address a joint rally on Sunday for the first time in these elections, in the family pocket-borough of Sultanpur.

Salman Khurshid mum on apology to EC

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 02:01:59 +0530

As Prime Minister Manmohan Singh gets set to ask Law Minister Salman Khurshid to explain his stand on his standoff with the Election Commission, CNN-IBN asks some hitherto unanswered questions. Did Union Law Minister Salman Khurshid make the Muslim sub-quota remark because the Congress desperation for Muslim vote has grown in UP? Was it because Khurshid's wife is facing a tough fight in Farroukhabad? Why has the Government stayed silent on his remarks till now?

Cong will weep after UP election results: BJP

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 01:47:23 +0530

Irrespective of the fact whether Congress leader Sonia Gandhi has shed tears on the Batla house issue or not, her party will weep after the declarations of UP poll results, the BJP on Sunday said.

Khurshid tightlipped on EC's move against him

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 01:32:06 +0530

In the thick of controversy over his remarks on minorities' sub-quota, Law Minister Salman Khurshid on Sunday refused to comment on Election Commission's move seeking "immediate and decisive" intervention of President Pratibha Patil.

Cong pulls up Khurshid, to issue clarification

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 12:30:06 +0530

The Congress has reportedly pulled up Law Minister Salman Khurshid for taking on the Election Commission saying it expected its leaders to respect and work within parameters of the Constitution and institutions. Sources told CNN-IBN that the government or the Law Minister are expected to issue a clarification saying that he never meant to show any disrespect to the EC, that he valued the Commission as an institution and that his promise of a sub-quota for Muslims was a policy decision that had nothing to do with the elections in Uttar Pradesh. Khurshid is even expected to tender an apology to the EC.

BJP demands Vilasrao Deshmukh's resignation

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 10:58:30 +0530

Coming down hard at former Maharashtra Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh, BJP's State President Sudhir Mungantiwar in a press conference on Saturday claimed that Deshmukh had helped filmmaker Subhash Ghai acquire large tracts of land to build his film institute Whistling Woods International, so that his actor son Riteish Deshmukh could benefit from the favour.

BJP raises pitch, wants government to sack Khurshid

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 10:01:06 +0530

The Election Commission on Saturday sought the 'immediate and decisive' intervention of President after it charged Congress minister Salman Khurshid with 'improper and unlawful' defiance of its orders under which he was censured for promising sub-quota for minorities.

Oppn raises pitch, wants PM to sack Khurshid

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 07:30:32 +0530

Hours after Election Commissioner wrote a letter to President Pratibha Patil against Union Law Minister Salman Khurshid, the BJP on Saturday said the minister had no right to continue in the government. The main Oppisition said an 'unprecedented situation had been created' with the poll body constrained to seek intervention of the highest constitutional authority over Khurshid's repeated violation of the model code of conduct.

'Cong can't seek votes in the name of development'

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 01:48:46 +0530

Accusing Congress of ruining Uttar Pradesh in over 40 years of its rule, BSP chief Mayawati on Saturday said the party should be ashamed of seeking votes in the name of development in the state. She also took potshots on the Congress' stand on Batla House encounter, saying the party was befooling Muslims by raking up the issue at the time of elections.

BJP wants Bill on Telangana in budget session

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 12:30:06 +0530

Alleging that Congress has been "deceiving" people on separate Telangana issue, BJP on Saturday said the UPA government should move a Bill on the formation of the state in the coming budget session of the Parliament.

Cong will weep after UP assembly poll results: BJP

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 12:18:27 +0530

Irrespective of the fact whether Congress leader Sonia Gandhi has shed tears on the Batla house issue or not, her party will weep after the declarations of UP poll results, BJP on Saturday said.

Trinamool pursuing undemocratic policies: CPM

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 12:07:27 +0530

The Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) on Saturday accused the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal of pursuing "undemocratic and anti-people" policies after it decided to revoke subsidies to the transport corporations.

Battle for the states: tracking the revolution

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 11:29:35 +0530

On this episode we show you the Dalit factor in the 2012 Uttar Pradesh Assembly Elections.

Quota row: BJP seeks Khurshid's immediate dismissal

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 10:55:51 +0530

With Election Commission seeking President Pratibha Patil's intervention on Law Minister Salman Khurshid's defiance of poll body's censure of his sub-quota remarks, BJP on Saturday sought his immediate dismissal from the cabinet.

Congress avoids commenting on EC's letter

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 10:27:16 +0530

Congress on Saturday night avoided commenting on the Election Commission's letter to President Pratibha Patil seeking "immediate decisive" action against a "defiant and aggressive" Law Minister Salman Khurshid for his remarks on job quotas for minorities.

Learnt my political lessons from farmers: Rahul

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 10:02:41 +0530

Striking a cord with the farmers and people of his constituency, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday gave them the credit for the political lessons that he has learnt.

Cong will weep after UP poll results: BJP

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 09:49:08 +0530

Irrespective of the fact whether Congress leader Sonia Gandhi has shed tears on the Batla house issue or not, her party will weep after the declarations of UP poll results, BJP said on Saturday.

Khurshid defiant, violating code: EC to President

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 09:18:48 +0530

In an unprecedented action, the Election Commission (EC) on Saturday wrote to President Pratibha Patil against Union Law Minister Khurshid's alleged defiance of model code of conduct.

Modi to hold his last Sadbhavna fast today

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 08:37:38 +0530

Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi will observe his final 'Sadbhavna Mission' fast at Ambaji in north Gujarat on Sunday.

SIT destroyed evidence on Godhra riots: Bhatt

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 06:54:35 +0530

Against the backdrop of the Supreme Court-appointed SIT reportedly giving a clean chit to Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi, suspended IPS officer Sanjiv Bhatt on Saturday accused the state government and the probe agency of "destroying" records related to 2002 post-Godhra riots.

'Will ensure rights of Muslims even if EC hangs me'

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 06:24:56 +0530

Sticking to his stand on minorities, Congress leader Salman Khurshid has said he would ensure the rights of backward Muslims even if the Election Commission "hangs" him.

UP: Voting generally peaceful, turnout 56 pc

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 06:06:55 +0530

Nearly 56 per cent of 1.92 crore voters on Saturday exercised their franchise for 59 seats spread over nine districts in the by-and-large peaceful second phase of the fiercely-fought Uttar Pradesh assembly election.

'Gift' me 40 Lok Sabha seats: Jaya to partymen

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 05:28:31 +0530

Setting her sights on carving out a larger role in national politics, AIADMK supremo and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa on Saturday asked her partymen to 'gift' her with all 40 Lok Sabha seats in the 2014 elections.

BSP MP, over 15 other block heads join SP

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 04:53:46 +0530

BSP Rajya Sabha MP Jai Prakash Rawat along with over 15 other supporters on Saturday joined Samajwadi Party in Hardoi.

UP Polls: BSP president involved in tiff

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 04:23:59 +0530

Uttar Pradesh BSP president Swami Prasad Maurya was on Saturday involved in a tiff with security personnel after they allegedly prevented him from entering a polling centre, officials said.

UP polls: Salman Khurshid dares EC, BJP reacts

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 03:21:24 +0530

Even as the polling for the second phase of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections were underway, Union Law Minister Salman Khurshid did not refrain from keeping up the campaign for the third phase.

Bihar: Parties differ over naming Kosi bridge

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 02:25:11 +0530

Differences continued to dog the political parties in Bihar over naming of the newly-constructed Kosi bridge giving new lifeline to Mithilanchal region. State Youth Congress president Lalan Kumar and former MP Ranjit Ranjan said they would petition Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

2G verdict: AG to advise PM on review petition

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 01:26:53 +0530

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Saturday met senior Cabinet members Kapil Sibal, Salman Khursheed, Pranab Mukherjee and P Chidambaram to chalk a way out of the 2G mess.

UP polls: 46 per cent turnout till 3 pm

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 01:02:09 +0530

The polling in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections picked up after a dull start on Saturday with 46 per cent of nearly two crore electorate exercising their franchise till 3 pm.

UP: 7.4 pc voting registered in morning polling

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 11:23:39 +0530

Polling for the second phase of Uttar Pradesh assembly elections started on a slow note with only 7.4 per cent of the total 1.92 crore electorate exercising their franchise in the first two hours. "Polling started at 7 am and in the first two hours 7.4 per cent polling was registered in 59 seats spread over 9 districts amid tight security arrangements," Election Commission sources said in Lucknow.

J&K examgate: Omar keeps education to himself

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 09:31:04 +0530

In the latest development in the Jammu and Kashmir exam scandal, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has kept the Education ministry portfolio to himself.

UP: Dull start to phase 2 polling

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 09:27:59 +0530

The phase two of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections began on a dull note on Saturday, primarily owing to the chilly weather.

UP polls: Phase 2 today, Maya faces stiff challenge

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 07:37:09 +0530

The second phase of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections begins on Saturday, covering nearly two crore voters who will decide the fate of 1099 candidates, including 31 sitting MLAs and 24 former ministers.

2G scam: PM to hold crucial meeting today

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 06:39:12 +0530

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is expected to hold a crucial meeting with key cabinet members on Saturday to find a way out of the 2G mess.

Goa polls: Politicians conspiring with land sharks?

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 06:24:42 +0530

As Goa goes to the polls early next month, the issue of corruption and land are foremost. An income tax investigation has exposed how politicians are conspiring with real estate and land sharks to sell Goa for a song.

Cong happy over resolution of Army chief's age row

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 05:32:54 +0530

Congress on Friday expressed happiness over the resolution of Army Chief Gen VK Singh's age row, saying the honour of the country and the armed forces was "uppermost".

Uttar Pradesh to vote in second phase today

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 04:38:11 +0530

The second round of the Uttar Pradesh assembly elections, whose outcome is bound to affect national politics, will take place on Saturday, involving 1.97 crore voters in 59 constituencies.

Cong enacting drama on Batla House encounter: Maya

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 02:41:39 +0530

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati today alleged that Congress was enacting a "drama" on the Batla House encounter and said the Muslim community should exercise vigilance against such "designs".

We don't support separatists, says Mamata

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 02:27:00 +0530

Ahead of her meeting with Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) top leaders on Saturday on the Gorkha Territorial Administration (GTA), West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today said she did not support separatists.

Cong rule has been anti-farmer, anti-poor: Modi

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 01:03:03 +0530

Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi on Friday criticised the Congress saying its almost 50 years of rule from Parliament to panchayats, has been "anti-farmer and anti-poor".

UP campaign trail with Uma Bharti

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 12:12:36 +0530

Uma Bharti is the star campaigner of the BJP in Uttar Pradesh as she leads the election campaign in the state.

Rahul Gandhi could be PM in 2014: Beni Prasad

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:21:34 +0530

In remarks that could further embarrass Congress, Union minister Beni Prasad Verma on Friday made a reference to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's age and said that Rahul Gandhi could be the Prime Minister in 2014.

We don't support separatists, says Mamata

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:54:01 +0530

Ahead of her meeting with Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) top leaders on Saturday on the Gorkha Territorial Administration (GTA), West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday said she did not support separatists.

UP polls: Second phase of voting on Saturday

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:15:06 +0530

The second round of the Uttar Pradesh assembly elections, whose outcome is bound to affect national politics, will take place on Saturday, involving 1.97 crore voters in 59 constituencies.

Examgate: J&K Education Minister resigns

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 07:28:24 +0530

Jammu and Kashmir Education Minister Peerzada Muhammad Sayeed has submitted his resignation to UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi. Sayeed was accused of using "unfair means" to help his son pass the matriculation examination.

Emaar-MGF chargesheet spells trouble for Jagan?

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 06:23:42 +0530

The CBI chargesheet in the Emaar - MGF scam in Andhra Pradesh could spell more trouble for Jagan Mohan Reddy. The chargesheet accessed by CNN-IBN says Emaar-MGF had misappropriated funds in excess of Rs 100 crore in the deal.

Narendra Modi to campaign in Uttar Pradesh

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 06:00:49 +0530

Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi, who has skipped the BJP's poll campaign in Punjab and Uttarakhand, will drum up support for the party in Uttar Pradesh elections.

Goa BJP MLA quits, may join Congress

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:39:09 +0530

Days ahead of the Assembly elections in Goa, a BJP MLA on Friday resigned on being refused party ticket amidst indications that he might join Congress. Vijay Pai Khot, representing Canacona, submitted his resignation to Speaker Pratapsingh Rane.

UP: Mayawati blames Centre for lack of funds

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:27:50 +0530

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and BSP supremo Mayawati at a rally in Varanasi on Friday attacked the Congress government for not releasing the funds asked for development projects in the state.

BJP asks PM to break silence on Batla encounter

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:27:11 +0530

Taking exception to Law Minister Salman Khurshid raking up the Batla House encounter in UP poll campaign, the BJP on Friday asked Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to "break his silence" and clear the clouds over the "sensitive" issue.

Families corner one-third of Cong tickets in Goa

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 04:36:33 +0530

Five political families from Goa have cornered nearly one-third of Congress tickets for the March 3 assembly elections. And there's more to come.

Bihar: Ruling JD(U) MLA seen dancing with girls

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 03:56:55 +0530

Janata Dal (United) MLA Shyambahadur Singh landed in a fresh controversy after television channels on Friday aired a footage which purportedly show him dancing with girls at a marriage ceremony.

UP polls: Temple not on people's agenda in Ayodhya

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 03:08:20 +0530

The Ram temple was clearly not on the agenda of those who voted in this Hindu pilgrim town in the first phase of the Uttar Pradesh elections. Ordinary men and women showed much more interest in development issues than the temple, which has ceased to be a talking point even among the saffron-clad sadhus.

Mayawati our leader and will always be, say Dalits

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 02:04:46 +0530

Allegations of corruption against Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati find no takers in large parts of this Dalit land where people from socially marginalised communities braved the cold to vote in large numbers.

'Sonia cried on hearing about Batla encounter'

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:57:28 +0530

Union Law Minister Salman Khurshid is at it again. During a rally speech at Azamgarh, the Congress minister raised up the controversial issue of Batla House encounter and said that Sonia Gandhi had tears in her eyes when she heard about it.

Land row: Ghai to move SC against Bombay HC order

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:47:29 +0530

Filmmaker Subhash Ghai has claimed that there was no foul play in the land deal during the Vilasrao Deshmukh government.

Mamata Banerjee out to paint Kolkata blue

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:01:20 +0530

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is planning to paint Kolkata blue. On roads, on flyovers and even on trees, after the red rule of the Left and the green wave of Poriborton, Mamata is out to paint the city blue.

Dalit dilemma: Mayawati faces a tough battle

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:11:01 +0530

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati faces a tough battle in the assembly elections. Though her rallies so far have been massive leading to the belief that her own Dalit votebank is intact, but some members of the community face a dilemma about Mayawati.

Ex-DMK minister Periakaruppan's house raided

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:07:07 +0530

The Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) on Friday raided the residence of a former DMK minister in Tirupathur of Sivaganga district in Tamil Nadu.

Won't implement decision on retail FDI: Kerala CM

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 04:22:40 +0530

Congress-ruled Kerala on Thursday ruled out implementing the central government's decision on FDI in retail, saying it was not in the interest of the state.

UP polls semi-finals for Jan Lokpal Bill: Bedi

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 04:03:21 +0530

Team Anna member Kiran Bedi on Thursday said the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls are the "semi-final" for Jan Lokpal Bill, whose "final" will the general elections of 2014.

Chavan only talks, does nothing: Shiv Sena

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 03:47:49 +0530

Hitting out at Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan, Shiv Sena executive president Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday said that he pitied him.

Goa Cong criticises raid on priest's residence

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 03:26:24 +0530

The Goa unit of Congress on Thursday expressed displeasure over an income tax raid on the residence of a Catholic priest after an anonymous caller claimed that the he was parking money for a minister.

K'taka Advocate General issue: Karuna slams BJP

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 03:01:28 +0530

DMK president M Karunanidhi on Thursday slammed BJP for trying to "help" Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa to come out of the disproportionate wealth case being heard in a Bangalore court by exerting pressure on Karnataka's Advocate General and the Special Public Prosecutor (SPP) BV Acharya.

No question of joining hands with SP, BSP: Gadkari

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 02:41:59 +0530

BJP President Nitin Gadkari on Thursday said his party would not enter into a post-poll alliance with Bahujan Samaj Party or Samajwadi Party in Uttar Pradesh if it does not get majority on its own.

Fate of Peerzada to be decided in 24 hours: Omar

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 02:02:30 +0530

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said the fate of Education Minister Peerzada Mohammed Sayeed, whose foster son's Class 10 exam was allegedly fudged, would be decided in the next 24 hours.

UP polls: Cong downplays EC censure of Khurshid

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 01:46:18 +0530

The Congress on Thursday night downplayed the Election Commission's censure of Union Minister for Law and Minority Affairs Salman Khurshid for violation of model code of conduct by his remarks on sub-quota for minorities during electioneering in Uttar Pradesh.

SC declines Sasikala's plea in DA case row

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 01:24:47 +0530

The Supreme Court on Thursday declined to entertain "at this stage" the plea of Sasikala Natarajan, estranged close aide of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa to provide her translated copies in Tamil of the proceedings before the special Bangalore trial court in a disproportionate assets case.

Mullaperiyar row: Jaya writes to PM, slams Kerala

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 12:48:56 +0530

Taking strong exception to Kerala's reported "unilateral" action in ordering real time monitoring of Mullaperiyar Dam along with the Centre without Tamil Nadu's consent, Chief Minister Jayalalithaa on Thursday slammed it as a "blatant violation" of the principle of federalism and constitutional framework.

'No timeframe set by PM to resolve Mullaperiyar row'

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 12:33:10 +0530

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has not set any timeframe for resolving Mullaperiyar Dam dispute involving Kerala and Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said in New Delhi on Thursday.

Battle for the states: Is the Muslim votebank a myth?

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:51:42 +0530

Did Mayawati earn Muslim approval by jailing Varun Gandhi and maintaining law and order after Ayodhya title suit verdict?

K'taka: Advocate General quits under BJP pressure?

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:39:43 +0530

Weeks after Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and AIADMK supremo J Jayalalithaa was forced to appear in front of trial court in Bangalore in a 1996 disproportionate assets case against her, a controversial twist in the tale.

Have Modi's critics convicted him before the court ruling?

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:36:17 +0530

Sources say the SIT report has found no evidence to prosecute Gujarat CM Narendra Modi in the 2002 Gulberg society riots case.

Editor's take: critics harsh on Narendra Modi?

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:47:47 +0530

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the Ehsan Jafri killing in Gujarat on Wednesday filed a report in the case.

BJP slams Jaiswal's 'remote control CM' remark

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:39:31 +0530

The BJP on Thursday took strong exception to Union Minister Sriprakash Jaiswal's reported remark that the next UP Chief Minister will be from Congress whose 'remote will be in Rahulji's hands', saying that the constitutional posts should be spoken of with respect.

BJP launches internet TV channel

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:52:49 +0530

To catch the attention of young tech-savvy generation, BJP on Thursday announced the launch of "Yuva", an internet TV channel which would telecast programmes, speeches and rallies of the party.

Opposition demands Central rule in Karnataka

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:14:05 +0530

Upping the ante following the porn scandal, opposition Congress and JDS on Thursday demanded imposition of President's rule in the state. The opposition offensive comes a day after an embarrassed BJP central leadership gave marching orders to the three ministers in the wake of all round criticism.

Karnataka sleaze row: Is the BJP in trouble?

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:04:45 +0530

The BJP has been facing serious problems in Karnataka and Gujarat. Experts discuss whether the party is in trouble.

UP Polls: Campaign for second phase ends

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:01:54 +0530

Campaigning for the second phase of Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections covering 59 seats spread over nine districts came to an end on Thursday.

'Ministers were just watching porn, not doing it'

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:57:35 +0530

The Goa BJP on Thursday said that porn scandal involving ministers from the party in the neighbouring Karnataka will not affect its prospects in March 3 Assembly polls in Goa.

SC declines Sasikala's plea in DA case row

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:44:13 +0530

The Supreme Court on Thursday declined to entertain "at this stage" the plea of Sasikala Natarajan, estranged close aide of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa to provide her translated copies in Tamil of the proceedings before the special Bangalore trial court in a disproportionate assets case.

EC pulls up Khurshid over quota promise

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:11:58 +0530

The Election Commission (EC) has censured Union Law Minister Salman Khurshid for his remarks on sub-quota for minorities. The Election Commission said it expects Khurshid not to repeat such violations of the model code in future.

SIT report on Gulbarg case: Reprieve for Modi?

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 06:59:40 +0530

A day after stinging comments by the Gujarat High Court on the 2002 riots, there was reprieve for Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi almost a decade after the worst communal flare up in the state.

Heavy turnout shows people want change: Rahul

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 06:51:00 +0530

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday said the heavy voter turnout in first phase of polling in Uttar Pradesh indicated that people in the state were craving for a change.

Cong will form next govt in UP on its own: Jaiswal

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 06:33:16 +0530

A day after the impressive turnout of about 64 per cent electorate in the first phase of Assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh, the Congress on Thursday exuded confidence of forming the next government in the state on its own.

BJP trying to woo regional parties, says DMK

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 05:51:10 +0530

The DMK on Thursday said BJP was trying to woo regional parties and the pressure mounted by the saffron party forced the resignation of BV Acharya as Karnataka Advocate General.

Modi has the potential to be PM: Gadkari

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 05:05:34 +0530

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Nitin Gadkari on Thursday said that Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi is one of the party's prime ministerial candidate for the 2014 Lok Sabha elections.

Want to pursue Jaya case: Advocate General Acharya

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 04:22:24 +0530

Advocate General BV Acharya said he was under pressure to quit as Special Public Prosecutor in the Disproportionate Assets case against Jayalalithaa.

2G order: PM to meet Pranab, Khurshid, Sibal

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 04:00:00 +0530

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is likely to meet Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, Law Minister Salman Khurshid and Telecommunications and HRD Minister Kapil Sibal in the next few days to discuss Supreme Court's order cancelling all 122 2G spectrum licences allotted by former telecom minister A Raja on or after January 10, 2008.

Blow for Vilasrao, Ghai land allotment scrapped

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 03:45:45 +0530

In a setback for Congress leader Vilasrao Deshmukh, the Mumbai High court has ordered that the land given to Subhash Ghai's Mukta Arts in 2006 be taken back.

Odisha excise minister quits over hooch tragedy

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 03:17:17 +0530

Odisha Excise Minister AU Singhdeo on Thursday resigned over hooch tragedy in Cuttack on moral grounds.

Modi one of BJP's PM choice in 2014: Gadkari

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 03:15:41 +0530

Bharatiya Janata Janata Party President Nitin Gadkari on Thursday said that Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi is one of the party's prime ministerial candidate for the 2014 Lok Sabha elections.

Wind in favour of Congress: Priyanka Gandhi

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 01:43:18 +0530

Congress' star campaigner Priyanka Gandhi on Thursday launched a frontal attack on the BSP government in Uttar Pradesh alleging that it was wasting money on statues and parks even as she said there was a wind of change in favour of the Congress in the state.

Goa polls: Cong in tailspin over dissidence

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:46:20 +0530

In a bind over largescale dissidence in the party ahead of March 3 Goa Assembly polls, the Congress poll managers are pulling all stops to placate the dissenters who have raised the banner of revolt after being denied tickets.

J&K examgate: Oppn demand Peerzada's removal

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:33:40 +0530

There are growing voices of protest in Jammu and Kashmir against Education Minister Peerzada Sayeed after it was alleged that board officials helped his son pass his class 10 exam in 2009.

Plea filed against SIT report in Gulbarg case

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:30:26 +0530

Zakia Jafri, the widow of slain Congress MP Ehsaan Jafri, and Citizens for Justice and Peace filed an application in the Metropolitan Court in Ahmedabad on Thursday stating that they have an apprehension that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has not filed the complete report in the Gulbarg Society massacre case as directed by the Supreme Court.

Jaya DA case: Karnataka Advocate General quits

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:23:07 +0530

In a fresh embarrassment for the Karnataka government, Advocate General B V Acharya has resigned from his post. The move came after Acharya was asked to quit as the Special Public Prosecutor in the Jayalalithaa Disproportionate Assets case.

UP: Gandhis to be back on campaign trail today

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:53:48 +0530

The Gandhi Siblings will be back on the campaign trail in Uttar Pradesh on Thursday, the last day of campaigning for the second phase of assembly elections.

Uma Bharti leads BJP's poll campaign in UP

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:18:58 +0530

Uma Bharti is the star campaigner of the BJP in Uttar Pradesh as she leads the election campaign in the state.

Karnataka ministers should be jailed: Anna

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 06:49:06 +0530

Anna Hazare on Wednesday demanded the three BJP ministers, who were caught watching porn inside Karnataka Assembly, be sent to jail and dismissed from the House.

Gulbarg case: SIT clean chit to Narendra Modi?

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 06:35:00 +0530

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the Ehsan Jafri killing in Gujarat on Wednesday filed a report on the case. While contents of the report remain under wraps, crime branch sources claimed that the committee appointed by the Supreme Court hasn't found enough evidence against Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi, but the SIT officials haven't offered any confirmation on this.

TN Assembly Speaker hits out at Karuna

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 05:21:48 +0530

Maintaining that due procedure was followed in suspension of opposition leader Vijayakanth of DMDK from the House, Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker D Jayakumar on Wednesday slammed DMK President M Karunanidhi for charging that the action showed ruling AIADMK's "anti-democratic rule."

Karuna takes a dig at TN Govt over power situation

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 04:47:46 +0530

Taking a dig at the ruling AIADMK on the power front, DMK chief M Karunanidhi on Wednesday said the prevailing power scenario was a "good example" of the government's 'achievements.'

Delhi: Sheila meets PC, discusses MCD trifurcation

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 04:02:39 +0530

Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit on Wednesday met Home Minister P Chidambaram and is understood to have briefed him about the ongoing process of trifurcating the municipal corporation.

Goa: Cong faces trouble over ticket distribution

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:36:49 +0530

The Congress in Goa continued to face trouble in its ranks over distribution of poll tickets for the March 3 Assembly polls with more leaders leaving the party.

Kerala gives nod to personal rapid transit system

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:14:19 +0530

The Kerala cabinet on Wednesday gave the nod for the formation of a new company, based on private-public participation, to set up a state of the art personal rapid transit system, which is increasingly popular abroad and now is to be implemented in major India cities.

UP: Jailed farmer leader Tewatia files nomination

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 01:39:52 +0530

Jailed farmer leader Manvir Singh Tewatia, who is out on parole, filed his nomination papers as JD(U) candidate for Jewar assembly seat on Wednesday.

Does the Indian voter still vote according to caste?

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 11:03:02 +0530

On the voting day in Uttar Pradesh, experts discuss if the Indian voter still votes according to caste.

Gujarat: SIT files report on Ehsan Jafri case

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 11:01:40 +0530

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the Ehsan Jafri killing in Gujarat has filed a report on the case. Crime branch sources claimed that the committee appointed by the Supreme Court hasn't found enough evidence against Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi, but the SIT officials haven't offered any confirmation on this.

UP: SP, BJP claim to win 40 seats each in 1st phase

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:01:51 +0530

Opposition SP and BJP on Wednesday claimed that they would individually win 40 of the 55 Uttar Pradesh Assembly constituencies that went to polls in the first phase.

Are we hypocritical when it comes to watching porn?

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:50:44 +0530

A day after three Karnataka ministers were caught watching an obscene clip in the Assembly, they were forced to resign.

UP 1st phase poll records highest turnout: CEC

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:49:07 +0530

The 62-64 per cent turn out of voters in the first phase of polling in Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday was a record, Chief Election Commissioner S Y Quraishi said.

Editor's take: The Karnataka sleaze row

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:38:32 +0530

A day after three Karnataka BJP ministers were caught watching an obscene clip in the Assembly, the party has shown them the door. Three ministers, CC Patil, Lakshmana Savadi and Krishna Palemar, who were caught watching porn in the Karnataka Assembly have been barred from attending the Assembly till the probe into the matter is over.

K'taka ministers should sent to be jail: Anna

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:34:43 +0530

Anna Hazare on Wednesday demanded the three BJP ministers who were caught watching porn inside Karnataka Assembly be dismissed from the House.

Cong rejects Mitra's remark that no fund received

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:51:02 +0530

The running battle between Congress and Trinamool Congress-led West Bengal government intensified on Wednesday with the AICC declaring that the Centre has released Rs 23,695 crore to the state, dismissing as a 'complete error' state Finance Minister Amit Mitra's statement that not a paisa has been received.

Congress demands Narendra Modi's resignation

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:14:07 +0530

The Congress on Wednesday demanded resignation of Chief Minister Narendra Modi after the Gujarat High Court censured the state government for 'inaction and negligence' during the 2002 post-Godhra riots.

People in Karnataka angry over sleaze row

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 07:35:51 +0530

The people of Karnataka said that the behaviour displayed by the three ministers was unacceptable.

Cong not interested in alliance: Sonia Gandhi

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 07:16:23 +0530

Congress President Sonia Gandhi said on Wednesday that her party is contesting the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections for forming a government and not for striking a coalition with any party.

UP polls: Sonia Gandhi hits out at BSP, BJP

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 07:14:37 +0530

Congress President Sonia Gandhi on Wednesday alleged that the BJP, the SP and the BSP were trying to hoodwink people by pretending to attack each other for electoral gains in Uttar Pradesh though they had all shared power and ruled the state without any sincerity of purpose.

UP polls: 62 per cent turnout in first phase

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 07:06:59 +0530

Polling for the first phase of high-voltage Uttar Pradesh assembly elections on Wednesday recorded 62 per cent turnout on an incident-free day after a sluggish start due to rain, with Mayawati's ruling BSP facing a tough challenge from the Congress, the BJP and the SP.

Karnataka sleaze row leaves BJP embarrassed

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 06:50:45 +0530

A day after three Karnataka BJP ministers were caught watching an obscene clip in the Assembly, the party has shown them the door.

Cong trying to divide Muslims on quota: Maya

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 06:30:08 +0530

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati on Wednesday charged the Congress with hatching a conspiracy to divide the Muslim community in the name of reservation.

UPA record in corruption is unbeatable: Advani

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:55:41 +0530

The United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government's "stinking record" in corruption was unbeatable, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader L.K. Advani said in New Delhi on Wednesday while listing the "10 murkiest matters that come to mind".

Schemes for Muslims not properly implemented: Rahul

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:55:08 +0530

Seeking to woo Muslim voters in Uttar Pradesh, Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said the UPA government has initiated several welfare schemes for the community but they have not been properly implemented in the state.

Sleaze row: K'taka ministers barred from Assembly

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:54:16 +0530

Three ministers, CC Patil, Lakshmana Savadi and Krishna Palemar, who were caught watching porn in the Karnataka Assembly have been barred from attending the Assembly till probe is over into the matter.

PM asks A-G if any action needs to be taken against anyone in PMO

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:36:19 +0530

The Supreme Court had last week cancelled 122 2G licences that were issued by the UPA as the grounds for the policy were flawed.

NRHM scam: CBI raids Ghazipur district hospital

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:36:01 +0530

A CBI team on Wednesday conducted searches at the district hospital in Ghazipur in connection with the National Rural Health Mission scam. The two-member team checked documents and also took custody of some papers, official sources said.

Rahul not a CM candidate, says Congress

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:16:30 +0530

The Congress has not projected any chief minister in the hotly contested Uttar Pradesh elections that began on Wednesday and "youth icon" Rahul Gandhi is not a candidate, says a senior leader.

Don't preach morality, look inward: Cong to BJP

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 04:45:42 +0530

Taking a dig at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the issue of its legislators caught watching porn in the Karnataka assembly, Telecommunication Minister Kapil Sibal on Wednesday said the party should look inwards before preaching morality.

2G order: PM seeks Attorney General's advice

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 04:27:51 +0530

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has reportedly asked for advice from Attorney General of India Goolam E Vahanvati on the Supreme Court's order cancelling 122 licences allotted by the Telecommunications Ministry during the tenure of former minister A Raja after January 10, 2008.

Infighting in Congress as voting in UP kicks off

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 03:14:53 +0530

On the first day of the polling in Uttar Pradesh, the infighting between two senior Congress leaders is out in the open bringing embarrassment to the party.

Ready to probe bribe allegation: Andhra minister

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 02:10:43 +0530

Dismissing allegations of receiving kick backs from liquor syndicates, Andhra Pradesh Excise Minister M Venkataramana on Wednesday said he was ready to face any probe to prove his innocence.

UP polls: Beware of Congress, BJP tells Muslims

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 01:47:58 +0530

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday claimed that the Congress was trying to "lure Muslims with the false promise of protecting the Babri mosque".

HC raps Modi govt for inaction during 2002 riots

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 01:31:22 +0530

Directing the state government to provide compensation for reconstruction of religious structures desultory during the riots, the bench headed by Gujarat High Court Chief Justice Bhaskar Bhattacharya also hit out at the state and the police machinery for their failure to maintain law and order, and their inability to stop the riots.

Andhra excise minister accused in hooch racket

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 01:13:38 +0530

In a shocking revelation that is certain to rock the Andhra Pradesh government and administration, state Excise Minister M Venkata Ramana has been accused of taking a Rs 10 lakh bribe to let the illegal liquor business run.

Sleaze row: Oppn slams BJP, wants MLAs suspended

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 12:51:02 +0530

The Karnataka Assembly was adjourned for half an hour on Wednesday amidst Opposition uproar over the sleaze row involving two BJP MLAs. The Opposition shouted 'Shame! Shame!' as soon as the Assembly proceedings began.

Women shouldn't dress provocatively: Patil

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 12:12:55 +0530

This is not the first time BJP leader CC Patil has found himself roiled in a controversy. In January this year, he assumed the high moral ground on womenswear, saying, "I personally don't favour women wearing provocative clothes and always feel they need to be dignified in whatever they wear." He further argued that women should know how much skin they should cover.

Woman fakes as Mamata's assistant, arrested

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 11:34:32 +0530

A woman was on Wednesday arrested for impersonating as personal assistant to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

BSY, 11 ministers in K'taka BJP's hall of shame

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 11:06:42 +0530

In the last 44 months, nearly one-third of the BJP government has resigned on charges ranging from rape to corruption in Karnataka. It is a record and a shameful one at that:

BJP wants clean, clear govt in UP: Gadkari

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 11:01:22 +0530

BJP leader Nitin Gadkari said on Wednesday that the BJP wanted a clean and clear government in Uttar Pradesh. "Mayawati's corruption and Mulayam Singh's gundaraj have harmed UP in the past," he said.

UP polls: 51 pc polling during 1st phase till 4 pm

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:24:16 +0530

Polling began slowly in the first phase of Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections on Wednesday but picked up the pace as the day progressed with 51 per cent of the electorate exercising their franchisee till 4 PM.

J&K minister's son was helped in exams: Report

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:06:48 +0530

In the latest development in the Jammu and Kashmir examgate scandal, the state crime branch is expected to submit its report on Wednesday.

K'taka: Ministers caught watching porn resign

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:55:32 +0530

Three BJP ministers "voluntarily" resigned on Wednesday over the shocking sleaze row to rock the Karnataka Assembly. Mangalore in-charge Minister Krishna Palemar, Co-operation Minister Lakshman Savadi and Karnataka Women and Child Welfare Minister CC Patil tendered in their resignation during a BJP core committee meeting that was held early on Wednesday morning. The ministers said they were resigning to save the party's image.

Karnataka: Sleaze ministers offer to resign

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:41:06 +0530

The two BJP ministers involved in the sleaze row rocking the Karnataka Assembly have offered to resign saying they were doing so to help the party avoid embarrassment.

Karnataka CM promises law for rural service

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 07:31:18 +0530

To ensure proper medical services in rural areas, the state government is mulling over introducing a legislation in the next session, making minimum service at the taluk and district levels mandatory for new medical graduates.

Axe for K'taka ministers watching obscene video?

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 06:47:32 +0530

In an embarrassment for the BJP, two Karnataka ministers were caught watching obscene content inside the state Assembly. The two ministers are Karnataka Co-operation Minister Laxman Savadi and Karnataka Women and Child Welfare Minister CC Patil.

Battle for UP begins, stakes highest for Cong

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:01:30 +0530

Polling for the first phase of the high voltage Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections for 55 seats in 10 districts would be held on Wednesday that will decide the fate of two ministers, 31 MLAs and 15 former ministers.

Pipili rape: Cong demands removal of SCW chief

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 03:19:42 +0530

Intensifying its agitation demanding removal of Jyoti Panigrahi as chairperson of State Commission for Women (SCW) over the alleged Pipili rape case, Congress activists on Tuesday 'gheraoed' the SCW office and got the support of five Opposition parties on the issue.

Cong writes to EC against Rahul's security lapse

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 02:59:05 +0530

The Congress has approached the Election Commission seeking action against the Uttar Pradesh administration over "deliberate" security lapses in public meetings and rallies of Rahul Gandhi in the poll-bound state.

UP: Maya's speech CD to be examined, says CEO

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 02:03:37 +0530

The CD of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati's Gorakhpur rally where she reportedly uttered that Opposition parties were using their pet dogs to spoil her rally will be examined, the state Chief Electoral Officer said on Tuesday.

Modi takes a dig at Cong on development of UP

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 01:24:18 +0530

In a sarcastic attack on Congress on the eve of the first phase of Uttar Pradesh polls, Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday sought to know whether the Union government could ensure uninterrupted power supply even in the high-profile constituencies of Amethi and Rai Bareilly.

'Cong, BJP misleading public on blackmoney issue'

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 01:02:39 +0530

Hitting out at Congress and BJP, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and BSP president Mayawati on Tuesday said both the parties are misleading public on the blackmoney issue.

Gadkari speaks to Gowda on porn-watching ministers

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 12:07:17 +0530

BJP President Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday night spoke to Karnataka Chief Minister Sadananda Gowda over phone on the issue of two ministers of the state being caught on TV camera watching allegedly porn clippings on mobile phone during state Assembly proceedings in Bangalore.

Gujarat Congress asks SIT to prosecute Modi

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:53:25 +0530

The Gujarat unit of Congress today demanded that the Supreme Court-appointed special investigation team prosecute Chief Minister Narendra Modi for his alleged role in the 2002 post-Godhra riots.

K'taka video: Haven't done anything wrong, says minister

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:47:17 +0530

Karnataka Cooperation Minister Laxman Savadi said that he won't resign over the video issue.

'Speaker should act against ministers if found guilty'

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 10:55:37 +0530

Pleading ignorance about an incident of two of his ministerial colleagues caught on camera allegedly watching porn clippings in Assembly, Chief Minister D V Sadananda Gowda on Tuesday said it was for the Speaker to take action against them if they were found guilty.

EC, Vadra caught in row over officer's transfer

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 10:06:01 +0530

Priyanka Gandhi's husband Robert Vadra's debut campaign has run into controversy. First his motorcycle cavalcade was stopped by the Election Commission for flouting the rules and then the EC officer who stopped Vadra's cavalcade Pawan Kumar Sen was transferred to Goa.

Is Robert Vadra a symbol of a VVIP culture?

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:56:52 +0530

There has been a row over the transfer of an officer on the day when Robert Vadra's cavalcade was stopped in UP.

Gadkari escapes unhurt in dais crash; Jaya slips

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:38:11 +0530

BJP president Nitin Gadkari escaped unhurt on Tuesday when the stage he was sitting on collapsed during an election rally in Uttar Pradesh.

UP: Jaya Prada slips while climbing the dais

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:24:55 +0530

Film actress Jaya Prada, campaigning for Lok Manch led by former SP leader Amar Singh, on Tuesday slipped while climbing the dais at an election rally in Kushinagar.

Raja meets DMK supporters near court lock-up

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:20:57 +0530

Around 60 supporters and DMK party colleagues of jailed former communications minister A. Raja met him on Tuesday in the premises of a Delhi district court complex where he is facing trial in the 2G case.

Do Rahul and the Gandhi dynasty count in Uttar Pradesh?

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:07:30 +0530

In the political race to the Assembly Elections in Uttar Pradesh, experts discuss how important is the Gandhi surname.

UP set to go for first phase of voting tomorrow

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:00:17 +0530

The countdown has begun for the first phase of polling in the battle for Uttar Pradesh. On Wednesday, 10 districts with 55 constituencies in central UP also known as Awadh Pradesh, will go to polls.

Maya speech's CD to be examined: Official

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:59:02 +0530

The CD of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati's Gorakhpur rally where she reportedly uttered that opposition parties were using their pet dogs to spoil her rally will be examined, the state Chief Electoral Officer said on Tuesday.

Lokpal to come up in RS during Budget session

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:52:14 +0530

The much talked about Lokpal Bill is expected to be brought again for consideration in the Rajya Sabha during the second phase of the Budget session of Parliament.

K'taka ministers caught watching obscene video

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:21:03 +0530

Kith and kin galore in Cong's second list for Goa

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 07:43:26 +0530

It's kith and kin galore in the second list of Congress for Goa polls announced on Tuesday, days after the selection of first batch of candidates sparked off a virtual rebellion in the state unit.

Bengal debt burden can be more, hints Mamata

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 07:30:58 +0530

The debt burden bequeathed by the erstwhile Left Front government in West Bengal could be more than Rs 2.3 lakh crore, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday hinted.

UP: Nitin Gadkari escapes unhurt in dais crash

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 07:25:32 +0530

BJP president Nitin Gadkari had a narrow escape on Tuesday when the dais he was sitting on crashed during an election rally in Mohamadabad Assembly of Ghazipur district.

Video: Gadkari's stage collapses during poll rally

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 07:06:55 +0530

Nitin Gadkari was quickly whisked away by police officials, but the unfazed BJP President returned to address the crowds from atop a wooden cot later.

Around 1,000 DMDK workers join AIADMK

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 07:04:01 +0530

A week after a fiery exchange of words between Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa and Leader of Opposition Vijayakanth in the Tamil Nadu Assembly, around 1,000 DMDK functionaries and workers, including the actor-politician's close friend Ibrahim Rowther joined the ruling AIADMK on Tuesday.

EC notifies ban on exit, opinion polls

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 06:15:18 +0530

The Election Commission on Tuesday banned exit polls till March 3, till the completion of assembly elections in five states of Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Manipur and Goa.

Goa Polls: BJP woes worsen after Gadkari visit

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 05:30:28 +0530

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Nitin Gadkari's recent two-day visit to Goa appears to have done more damage than good to the party's image, ahead of the March 3 assembly election.

Officer transfer routine, not linked to Vadra incident: EC

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:44:25 +0530

Election Commissioner HS Brahma said that the order for the poll officer's transfer was prepared before Robert Vadra's rally.

AFSPA is not to protect acts of crime: Omar

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:21:05 +0530

Citing the Supreme Court's recent observation, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who has been pitching for partial revocation of Armed Force Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in the state, on Tuesday said the statute was not aimed at protecting acts of crime.

CPI(M) leader Sushanto Ghosh released

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 03:25:24 +0530

Jailed CPI(M) leader, Sushanto Ghosh, was released from the Alipore Central Jail, Kolkata, on Tuesday. He was jailed in August last year after 7 skeletons were recovered from near his ancestral house in West Midnapore. CPI(M) party cadres gathered in large numbers to welcome Ghosh and garlanded him with flowers and chanted slogans once he was out.

CPI(M) leader Sushanto Ghosh set to walk free

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 02:18:11 +0530

CPI(M) leader Sushanto Ghosh is set to walk free from Alipore Central jail in Kolkata on Tuesday. He was jailed in August last year after 7 skeletons were recovered from near his ancestral house in West Midnapore.

Raj Thackeray's son may join MNS

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 12:51:54 +0530

Raj Thackeray's son may soon join his father's Maharashtra Navnirman Sena.

Row over transfer of officer who stopped Vadra rally

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 12:29:22 +0530

A political storm is brewing over Election Commission's decision to transfer a poll observer, IAS officer Pawan Sen, who stopped Priyanka Gandhi's husband Robert Vadra's motorcycle rally near Amethi on Monday. While the Election Commission claims that the order to transfer Sen was issued before the incident, political parties allege that it was done to please the Congress and the Gandhi family.

CPM says goodbye to 'I love China' ideology

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 12:04:34 +0530

The CPM has committed a sacrilege. The party has said that China is rife with growing inequalities, unemployment, regional imbalances and above all corruption.

Voting for Maharashtra polls begin

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:38:30 +0530

Voting began on a peaceful note at 7.30 am though crowds were not evident at many booths in view of the severe cold wave conditions sweeping most parts of the state.

Gowda's choice for Karnataka Lokayukta quits

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:13:14 +0530

Former Kerala High Court Chief Justice S R Bannurmath has decided to opt out of the post of Lokayukta in Karnataka.

Maha panchayat polls today, big names at stake

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:54:29 +0530

Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan has pitched the panchayat polls as the mid term elections that will change political equations in the state.

Poll observer who stopped Vadra rally transferred

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:39:59 +0530

A poll observer, who stopped Priyanka Gandhi's husband Robert Vadra's bike rally in the Gandhi bastion of Amethi for violating the model code of conduct, has been transferred to Goa.