Lok Sabha Election 2019 Updates: Meant to say 'jo hua woh bura hua', says Sam Pitroda amid row over remark on 1984 riots

Opposition grand alliance disintegrated, NDA may win all 40 seats in Bihar: Sushil Modi

Bihar deputy chief minister Sushil Kumar Modi Friday claimed that constituents of the “Mahagathbandhan” are trying ensure defeat of the

candidates of each other, and it will not be surprising if the BJP-led NDA wins all the 40 Lok Sabha seats in the state.

The opposition grand alliance is fragmented and disintegrated, while the NDA is marching ahead unitedly, the senior BJP leader said before embarking on a roadshow in Gopalganj in favour of JD(U) nominee Alok Kumar Suman from the constituency.

“It will not be surprising if the NDA wins all the 40 Lok Sabha seats in Bihar, given the fragmented and disintegrated opposition which stands nowhere against NDA in Bihar,” Modi told reporters.

PTI

Sam Pitroda apologises his remark on 1984, says it was misrepresented

At the centre of the controversy over his remark on 1984 riots, Sam Pitroda said, “The statement I made was completely twisted, taken out of context because my Hindi isn’t good. What I meant was ‘jo hua vo bura hua,’ I couldn’t translate ‘bura’ in my mind. What I meant was move on. We have other issues to discuss as to what BJP government did and what it delivered. I feel sorry that my remark was misrepresented, I apologise. This has been blown out of proportion.”

Sam Pitroda, Congress on his remarks on '84 riots: The statement I made was completely twisted, taken out of context because my Hindi isn't good, what I meant was 'jo hua vo bura hua,' I couldn't translate 'bura' in my mind. pic.twitter.com/ZATArjpC79

— ANI (@ANI) May 10, 2019

Narendra Modi in Punjab latest updates

1984 riots: PM says justice will be served till chowkidar is here

In Hoshiarpur, Narendra Modi said, “1984 riots may be ‘hua toh hua’ for Congress, but justice will be served under this chowkidar. In 2014, I had promised to the Sikhs that I won’t spare the murderers of the members of their community.”

‘Modi mandate’ could be larger than 2014, claims Jaitley

In a blog post, Arun Jaitley lashed out at the Opposition leaders and wrote, “Are the Opposition parties unable to figure out the ‘Modi Modi’ shouts confronting them when their leaders pass through crowded areas? Except for those who prefer to deceive themselves, media persons travelling across the country have a uniform report that there is an extremely strong pro-Modi trend visible amongst the voters. The prime ministerial contest is almost becoming a one horse race.”

Congress releases statement over Sam Pitroda’s remark on 1984 riots

Congress issued a statement over Sam Pitroda’s remark on 1984 anti-Sikh riots.  “We continue to support the quest for justice for 1984 riot victims. Any opinion remark made by any individual to the contrary including Sam Pitroda is not the opinion of Congress party,” it said.

“Unlike the BJP, which has decided to field a candidate charged with terror crimes and is being lauded as its face by none less than Narendra Modi himself, Congress has shown the moral and political courage to punish people and leaders accused of violence/role in 1984. This is the yardstick of self-imposed accountability and sense of justice to people followed by the Congress, unlike the BJP.”

INC COMMUNIQUE

Press statement by the Congress party on the 1984 and 2002 riots. pic.twitter.com/EwVgk2Y0IE

— INC Sandesh (@INCSandesh) May 10, 2019

BJP to in more than 55 new seats, says Amit Shah

In an interview to PTI, Amit Shah said that BJP will better its 2014 tally of 282 seats in this Lok Sabha polls. “BJP will win more than 55 new seats; to get more than 23 in West Bengal, 13-15 in Odisha,” he was quoted as saying. He further said that regional parties were welcome to join NDA after polls if they wished so.

Mamata didn’t respond to Modi’s calls over Fani: Rajnath Singh

In West Bengal’s Mathurapur, Rajnath Singh said, “The BJP has risen from the land of Bengal at such a scale that it has scared Mamata Banerjee. She is so scared that she refused to respond to repeated phone calls from our prime minister in view of Cyclone Fani.”

HM Rajnath Singh in Mathurapur,WB: Bangal ki khaadi se BJP ka aisa tufaan utha hai ke hamari Mamata didi ghabra gayi hain. Aur itna zyada ghabra gayi ki, jab yahan pe #Fani tufaan aata hai aur humara PM baar baar unko telephone karte hain tabhi unka telephone nahi uthati hain. pic.twitter.com/Emf2sfdJW1

— ANI (@ANI) May 10, 2019

Did Rajiv Gandhi use INS Viraat as his ‘personal taxi’ like Modi says? Some facts are known, others not yet

With less than a month remaining for his 28th death anniversary, former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi’s name is in the centre of a political controversy after Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a slew of allegations against him in his campaign rallies last week.

The BJP’s official Twitter timeline also flooded with allegations against the ex-prime minister. Although there is no apparent reason why issues which took place over three decades ago should be a factor in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, BJP and the Congress have turned it into a fight which now focusses on the details of a 1987 trip that Rajiv undertook with his family.

Addressing his first poll rally, Modi alleged that the Congress insulted the warship by using it for a vacationing Gandhi family. The allegations were vehemently countered by the Congress, and soon navy veterans also got embroiled in the political mudslinging. To make sense of the ongoing controversy, let’s try and segregate the facts from the claims and counter-claims. 

West Bengal CEO sends report to EC after cash seized from BJP candidate

West Bengal Chief Electoral Office has sent a report to the Election Commission regarding the money seized from BJP Lok Sabha candidate from Ghatal, Bharati Ghosh’s car earlier on Friday, reported ANI.

Sam Pitroda’s remark shocking, 1984 riots was tragedy: Amarinder Singh

In a reaction from the Congress on Sam Pitroda’s “hua toh hua” remark, Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh called the fellow party leader’s comment “shocking”. Amarinder said that the 1984 riots was a tragedy and “people are still awaiting justice”.

Modi has no respect for family values: Anand Sharma on PM’s INS Viraat remark

On Narendra Modi’s remark that Rajiv Gandhi used INS Viraat as “personal taxi”, Congress leader Anand Sharma said, “Any prime minister would do so (take family on official trips), but this prime minister has no family. If he had family, he would also be going there. But he travels alone because he has no connect with his family or any respect for family values.”

#WATCH Anand Sharma, Congress on PM Modi's comment on INS Viraat: Any PM would do so but this PM has no family,if he had family then he would also be going there, but he goes alone because he has no connect with a family or any respect for family values. (09/05/2019) pic.twitter.com/N9sKN7iQ2D

— ANI (@ANI) May 10, 2019

Narendra Modi in Himachal Pradesh latest updates

Our govt working to ensure justice for 1984 riots, says PM

Stepping up his attack on the Congress over 1984 riots, Narendra Modi said in Mandi, “Our government is working to ensure justice for the sins committed by Congress leaders in 1984. The guilty are being sentenced to life imprisonment and are getting death penalty.”

He further said, “On anti-Sikh riots, Congress has said ‘hua toh hua’. If Sikhs were murdered, then ‘hua toh hua’. This shows their ego,” he said.

Narendra Modi in Himachal Pradesh latest updates

Rahul, Sonia should oust Sam Pitroda, apologise to Sikhs, says PM

Addressing a rally in Mandi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi should apologise to Sikhs in view of Sam Pitroda’s comments on the 1984 riots. “Sonia and Rahul should join hands in front of the Sikhs and should immediately remove Sam Pitroda from Congress and accept that the 1984 massacre was done by Congress for selfishness,” he said.

BJP filed defamation case against us after defaming us; won’t leave this matter: Kejriwal

Amid the row over pamphlet targetting Atishi and other AAP leaders, party supremo Arvind Kejriwal blamed BJP and said, “Atishi is highly educated and an accomplished woman… I don’t understand why BJP can’t tolerate achievements made by women.

“This is the mentality of BJP. Even now, BJP leaders are saying the same things that were written in the pamphlet. They have filed defamation case against us after defaming us. We are sending defamation notice to Gautam Gambhir today. We will not leave this matter.”

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal: Atishi (AAP East Delhi candidate) is a highly educated and an accomplished woman. Her work has been great in the field of education which is being discussed worldwide. I don't understand why BJP can't tolerate achievements made by women. pic.twitter.com/GSa9zUdsGE

— ANI (@ANI) May 10, 2019

AAP election campaign latest update

Will support whoever promises Delhi statehood, except BJP

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Friday that AAP will support whoever will be forming the government at the Centre “except Modi ji and Amit Shah”, on the promise that Delhi will be given statehood.

Rahul Gandhi in Himachal Pradesh latest update

Congress chief hits back at Narendra Modi, heavily criticises governance

Hitting out at Narendra Modi’s style of governance, which allegedly does not pay heed to any adviser or senior politician, Rahul Gandhi heavily criticised the prime minister. “Narendra Modi is finished. The elections are finished,” Rahul said, alleging that the prime minister has never paid heed to the country’s force. 

“He says we are all chowkidar. No, Narendra Modi ji, the prime minister is not a chowkidar, he is supposed to listen to the people,” the Congress president said, deviating from this usual rally practice of avoiding protracted slams on the prime minister.

He also said that the Congress had Modi in its grip now and that he was trapped. “He is trying to say ‘kabadi, kabadi’ and move out, but he is finished, he is done for,” he said. Rahul also said Modi cannot meet the eyes of anyone asking him tough questions on Rafale and other issues.

Samajwadi Party election campaign latest updates

IN PHOTOS: Jaya Bachchan, Dimple Yadav campaign in Prayagraj

Samajwadi Party leaders Jaya Bachchan and Dimple Yadav campaigned in a roadshow through Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh on Friday.

प्रयागराज में सांसद श्रीमती डिम्पल यादव जी और सांसद श्रीमती जया बच्चन जी का रोड शो। #MahaGathbandhan से #MahaParivartan pic.twitter.com/NXfKMcveMP

— Samajwadi Party (@samajwadiparty) May 10, 2019

Will hang myself in public if Kejriwal can prove I am to blame for pamphlet, says Gautam Gambhir

The charged rhetoric over the pamphlet targetting AAP leaders and mainly the party’s East Delhi candidate Atishi showed no indication of mellowing, with Gautam Gambhir tweeting out yet another challenge to Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, after being blamed for circulating the pamphlet. He said he would hang himself in public if the AAP convener could prove that he had anything to do with the pamphlet.

Challenger Number 3 to @ArvindKejriwal and @aap. If he can prove that I have anything to do with this pamphlet filth, then I will hang myself in public. Otherwise @ArvindKejriwal should quit politics. Accepted?

— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) May 10, 2019

Narendra Modi in Haryana latest updates

After Rohtak rally, PM speaks to ANI on Pitroda and the Opposition

Shortly after his rally at Haryana’s Rohtak, prime minister Narendra Modi spoke to ANI, mainly on issues he has already spoken many times on. Upon being asked to comment on Sam Pitroda’s 1984 riots comment (which the prime minister had already spoken about in his meeting), Modi said that it was a display of the Congress’s arrongance. “It is this arrogance which got them 44 seats and now the people of India will ensure that they slip even further,” he said.

Modi also said that he was unbothered by the efforts of the Opposition to unite against him. “For the first three phases they were all abusing Modi. Since they sensed which way wind was blowing they started abusing EVMs. Like in cricket the batsman who gets out sometimes abuses the umpire, they are abusing the EC too,” he said.

BJP election campaign latest updates

Harsimrat asks for Captain Amarinder to stop ‘shielding’ 1984 riots accused

As the issue of the 1984 riots, Rajiv Gandhi’s culpability in it and Congress overseas chief Sam Pitroda’s laconic comment on it dominated news on Friday, BJP Union minister and Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal wrote on Twitter against Congress leader and Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh allegedly turning back on his “own community.” She also accused him of protecting the likes of Jagdish Tytler and Kamal Nath for his love for his position.

Raja Sahib @capt_amarinder you admit 5 @INCIndia men led ‘84 ‘katleaam’ of Sikhs but continue to protect #JagdishTytler & #Kamalnath on orders of @RahulGandhi. Pl don’t back stab your community & leave ‘lalach’ for your ‘kursi’ & stand up to admit #RajivGandhi ordered genocide.

— Harsimrat Kaur Badal (@HarsimratBadal_) May 10, 2019

BJP election campaign latest updates

Harsimrat asks for Captain Amarinder to stop ‘shielding’ 1984 riots accused

As the issue of the 1984 riots, Rajiv Gandhi’s culpability in it and Congress overseas chief Sam Pitroda’s laconic comment on it dominated news on Friday, BJP Union minister and Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal wrote on Twitter against Congress leader and Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh allegedly turning back on his “own community.” She also accused him of protecting the likes of Jagdish Tytler and Kamal Nath for his love for his position.

Raja Sahib @capt_amarinder you admit 5 @INCIndia men led ‘84 ‘katleaam’ of Sikhs but continue to protect #JagdishTytler & #Kamalnath on orders of @RahulGandhi. Pl don’t back stab your community & leave ‘lalach’ for your ‘kursi’ & stand up to admit #RajivGandhi ordered genocide.

— Harsimrat Kaur Badal (@HarsimratBadal_) May 10, 2019

BJP election campaign latest updates

BJP 1984 riot video notes Rajiv’s infamous line on violence

On what has proven to be a day full of charges levelled by the BJP on the Congress, on the 1984 Sikh riots, the party also shared a video on its Twitter account where Rajiv Gandhi is shown making his now infamous statement in the aftermath of the riots, that “when a big tree falls, the whole earth quakes.” The line is played in a loop and interspersed with accounts of the relatives of the riot’s victims.

1984... भूलना नामुमकिन है।

न दिल्ली भूल पाएगी न ही देश।

न उस खौफनाक मंजर के जख्म भर पाएंगे न ही वो चीखें कान के पर्दों पर खटखटाना बंद करेंगी।

गांधी परिवार के लिए बस एक बड़ा पेड़ गिरा था...जमीन हिली थी।

यह विडियो देखकर आपकी रूह हिल जाएगी...अब आपको फैसला करना है। pic.twitter.com/flJAlNCG4p

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 10, 2019

Yeddyurappa says 20 Karnataka Congress MLAs ‘unhappy’

Bringing back memories of the “Operation Lotus” alive, former Karnataka chief minister and BJP leader BS Yeddyurappa said on Friday that more than 20 Congress MLAs are “not happy” with the present government in the state. “They might take any decision at any time. Let us wait and see,” Yeddyurappa warned.

Robert Vadra chips in on slams directed at Rajiv Gandhi 

Among those who decried the slams made on deceased former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi was his son-in-law Robert Vadra. Calling for a “respectful change” in the country, Vadra tweeted that the family would strive to ensure that Rajiv’s vision is realised.

Politics is at an all time low .
Hitting out at our assassinated PM Sh RajivGandhi to mislead the people of India,is terrible.We, the family, will strive for his vision n the people of India will fight for his dignity n respect. It’s time for a respectful change in our country. pic.twitter.com/ye9ZuT26Zy

— Robert Vadra (@irobertvadra) May 10, 2019

BJP election campaign latest updates

Javadekar asks Sonia, Rahul to apologise over Pitroda’s Sikh riots remark

Slamming Congressman Sam Pitroda for his recent remark on the 1984 Sikh genocide, BJP’s Prakash Javadekar demanded an apology from Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi for the comments. “Enough is enough! Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi have to apologise to the nation for what Pitroda has said,” the Union minister told ANI.

“Today he (Pitroda) said that Rahul and Rajiv Gandhi have never targeted any community. How he will explain the justification of genocide by Rajiv Gandhi when he said when ‘big tree falls, earth trembles’? Is this not supporting genocide?” asked Javadekar.

BJP election campaign latest updates

Jaitley asks if Rahul will oust Pitroda over 1984 Sikh riots comment

Union minister Arun Jaitley on Friday asked whether Congress president Rahul Gandhi will oust the party’s overseas chief Sam Pitroda for his comment on the 1984 Sikh genocide that the riots “happened in 1984, so what?”

“Will the Congress president oust his guru, who rubbishes the genocide of India’s most patriotic community in 1984?” Jaitley tweeted.

Will the Congress President oust his 'Guru', who rubbishes the genocide of India's most patriotic community in 1984?

— Arun Jaitley (@arunjaitley) May 10, 2019

Former teammate VVS Laxman rallies behind Gambhir

Among those who have supported Gautam Gambhir after the newly anointed BJP leader was blamed for having circulated a derogatory pamphlet on AAP candidate Atishi, were his former India cricket teammates Harbhajan Singh, and more recently, VVS Laxman. “Shocked to hear about yesterday’s developments,” wrote Laxman, adding that he can vouch for Gambhir’s integrity.

Shocked to hear about yesterday's developments. Having known @GautamGambhir for nearly 2 decades, I can vouch for his integrity, character and the respect he has for women.

— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) May 10, 2019

Former teammate VVS Laxman rallies behind Gambhir

Among those who have supported Gautam Gambhir after the newly anointed BJP leader was blamed for having circulated a derogatory pamphlet on AAP candidate Atishi, were his former India cricket teammates Harbhajan Singh, and more recently, VVS Laxman. “Shocked to hear about yesterday’s developments,” wrote Laxman, adding that he can vouch for Gambhir’s integrity.

Shocked to hear about yesterday's developments. Having known @GautamGambhir for nearly 2 decades, I can vouch for his integrity, character and the respect he has for women.

— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) May 10, 2019

BJP election campaigns latest updates

Protests held outside Rahul’s house over Pitroda’s comments

BJP workers held protests outside Congress president Rahul Gandhi’s residence, against Congress leader Sam Pitroda’s remarks on the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

Delhi: BJP protests outside Congress President Rahul Gandhi's residence against Congress leader Sam Pitroda's remarks on 1984 anti-Sikh riots. pic.twitter.com/SIF7pD1Dcb

— ANI (@ANI) May 10, 2019

Narendra Modi in Haryana latest updates

Pakistan, national security return to PM’s campaign speech with renewed vigour

As much an opportunity to slam the Congress over, as it has been an segue into raking up Pakistan, the issue of India’s national security returned to Narendra Modi’s speech at Rohtak on Friday with renewed vigour. Modi once again relied on his oft used metaphor of entering terrorists’ homes and killing them and asserted that there are no heights too high for his government to climb, when it comes to defeating any threats to the country.

Modi also reflected on how his government had supported sportspersons from this state which has already produced many medal winning athletes.

हरियाणा, हिमाचल, मध्य प्रदेश, उत्तर प्रदेश और अन्य प्रदेशों में सिखों को निशाना बनाया गया।

इसका नेतृत्व कांग्रेस ने किया।

ये पाप कांग्रेस के हर छोटे-बड़े नेता ने किया, लेकिन आज कांग्रेस कह रही है “हुआ तो हुआ”: पीएम मोदी #JitegaModiJitegaBharat pic.twitter.com/CGJoRVnxBV

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 10, 2019

Narendra Modi in Haryana latest updates

At Rohtak, PM warns voters, asks them to take note of Pitroda’s ’three words’

Speaking at his first rally of the day at Haryana’s Rohtak, on Friday, prime minister Narendra Modi asked voters to note how entrenched in corruption the Congress has been in the last 70 years, as the country devolved. He hit out at “three words” used by the Congress’s overseas chief Sam Pitroda, while responding to the 1984 Sikh riots. “One of Congress’s biggest leaders said, 1984 Sikh riots ‘hua toh hua’. Do you know who this leader is? He is closest to the Gandhi family, he is Rajiv Gandhi’s friend, his is Congress’s naamdar chief’s guru,” Modi said. The prime minister then gave graphic descriptions of the kind of alleged violence done on Sikhs in the riots, using the “hua toh hua” refrain.

देश की सबसे तेज ट्रेन वंदे भारत हो या आपके हाथ में मोबाइल फ़ोन, आज ये सब भारत में ही बन रहा है।

अब भारत ने जल, थल, नभ के साथ साथ अंतरिक्ष में भी सर्जिकल स्ट्राइक करने की क्षमता प्राप्त कर ली है: पीएम मोदी #JitegaModiJitegaBharat pic.twitter.com/D7wYL158eU

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 10, 2019

Poll body issues notice to Congress leader over meeting govt officials

Election Commission has issued a notice to Congress leader and Madhya Pradesh cabinet minister Omkar Singh Markam for meeting government officers in the presence of the Shahdol collector at the Collectorate in the night of 20 April, thus violating Model Code of Conduct. Markam will have to respond within 24 hours.

Pamphlet row: Atishi files complaint with women’s body, to complain to EC, Delhi police too

Atishi on Friday, filed a complaint over the derogatory pamphlet mainly targeting her which is in circulation ahead of the Delhi polls, with the Delhi Commission of Women. AAP will also lodge complaints with the Election Commission and the Delhi Police, Atishi said. “If BJP and Gautam Gambhir can do this with an empowered woman then how will he ensure security to rest of the women?” she asked.

Eight CRPF personnel to be in each Jhargram booth on Sunday

Sections of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, each with as many as eight jawans, will be deployed at each booth in Maoist-dominated Jhargram constituency of West Bengal, in the sixth phase of the election on 12 May.

BJP election campaign latest updates

Harsimrat Kaur Badal hits out at Pitroda over Thursday’s comment on 1984 riots

Union minister of food processing and Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal has hit out at Sam Pitroda over his comments on Thursday on the 1984 riots. On Thursday, Pitroda was asked about BJP’s claim that instructions to “kill” in 1984 had come from late prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, and was quoted by media outlets as having said, “It (riots) happened in 1984, so what?”

Badal thanked the BJP government for constituting a special investigation team to investigate the riots.

#Gandhi family's blue-eyed boy and Rajiv crony #SamPitroda has admitted his boss orchestrated the #1984SikhsGenocide with his statement justifying the anti-human act by saying “so what it happened”. It’s a painful day for the #Sikh community. Gandhi family still unrepentant.

— Harsimrat Kaur Badal (@HarsimratBadal_) May 9, 2019

BJP leader drags Atishi’s personal life to forefront amidst pamphlet row

Decorum has well and truly been thrown out of the window as the battle over Delhi gets uglier over a pamphlet written in filthy language directed mainly at AAP’s East Delhi candidate Atishi. Amidst the flurry of defamation notices (one filed by Gautam Gambhir to AAP leaders over the latters’ claim that Gambhir was behind this, and another threatened by AAP leader Manish Sisodia), former AAP leader Anil Bajpai took the already misogynist language of the pamphlet a step further. Bajpai, who has recently joined the BJP, said in an interview to News18 that he has witnessed Atishi eating beef. He then asked why her husband is missing from her campaigns.

#ElectionAlert -- So far, @GautamGambhir has only served a notice. They are waiting for the case come to court. @AamAadmiParty is relying on Anil Bajpai’s statement to argue that this has been done by @BJP4India: AAP Source@pri_kandpal with details. pic.twitter.com/KQyWDtLp0L

— News18 (@CNNnews18) May 10, 2019

AAP election campaign latest updates

Amit Shah will be home minister if BJP returns to power: Kejriwal

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said if the BJP comes back to power then the party president Amit Shah would be the Union home minister and warned voters to think about the consequences of such an eventuality. Kejriwal’s AAP has found itself in the middle of the spotlight thanks to Sunday’s polls in Delhi and a derogatory pamphlet on the party’s East Delhi candidate doing the rounds.

देशवासियों, वोट देते वक़्त सोचना। अगर मोदी जी दोबारा आ गए तो अमित शाह गृह मंत्री होंगे। जिस देश का गृह मंत्री अमित शाह हो, उस देश का क्या होगा, ये सोच के वोट डालना। https://t.co/ws2ZCA7hjv

— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) May 10, 2019

Harbhajan rallies behind Gambhir, says he is ‘above all this’

As the controversy over the derogatory pamphlet on AAP’s East Delhi candidate Atishi rages on, former India bowler Harbhajan Singh chipped in with his support for onetime teammate and BJP’s candidate Gautam Gambhir, who AAP is blaming for circulating the pamphlet. Harbhajan described Gambhir as a “man above all this” and one who respects women.

I am shocked to note yesterday’s events involving @GautamGambhir. I know him well and he can never talk ill for any woman. Whether he wins or loses is another matter but the man is above all this

— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) May 10, 2019

BSP election campaign latest updates

Mayawati hits back at Modi, says RSS would not have let him in had he indeed been backward by birth 

BSP supremo Mayawati Friday called prime minister Narendra Modi’s allegation that the SP-BSP alliance was casteist, both “laughable and immature.”

The former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said the language used by the BJP showed it has realised “definite loss in polls” and is “frustrated” and making baseless and absurd allegations. 

“Modi indulged in casteism by forcibly describing himself as ‘pichhda’ (backward). Had he been backward by birth, the RSS would not have let him become the PM. What RSS has done to leaders like Kalyan Singh is known to all,” she said.

इसके विपरीत, श्री मोदी अपने को जबर्दस्ती पिछड़ा बनाकर जातिवाद का खुलकर राजनीतिक स्वार्थ के लिए इस्तेमाल करते हैं। वे अगर जन्म से पिछड़े होते तो क्या आरएसएस उन्हें कभी भी पीएम बनने देती? वैसे भी श्री कल्याण सिंह जैसों का आरएसएस ने क्या बुरा हाल किया है यह देश क्या नही देख रहा है।

— Mayawati (@Mayawati) May 10, 2019

AAP election campaign latest updates

Jignesh Mevani to campaign for Atishi

Gujarat MLA Jignesh Mevani and Kannada actor Prakash Raj will campaign for AAP’s East Delhi candidate Atishi on Sunday, a party statement said. Kafeel Khan, who was the doctor credited with attempting to take lifesaving measures at Gorakhpur BRD Medical College where 63 children died, will also be campaigning for the party candidate. 

Atishi has been in the middle of a slander campaign run through the distribution of a derogatory pamphlet by unknown persons. AAP has blamed the East Delhi BJP candidate Gautam Gambhir for it. 

With inputs by BJP

Congress election campaign latest updates

Rajiv Gandhi took many bold initiatives, says Sam Pitroda

With Rajiv Gandhi firmly back in the political discourse and amidst back to back allegations by BJP on the former prime minister’s alleged excesses, Sam Pitroda sought to list the measures for which Rajiv was directly responsible.

For all those who would be voting on May 12 th & 19 th I want to remind that the phones and computers you use is because PM Rajiv Gandhi in mid 1980s provided political will, policies, leadership, wisdom and needed funding to build foundation & platform to connect india.

— Sam Pitroda (@sampitroda) May 10, 2019

Rajiv Gandhi took many bold initiatives to plant seeds for technology missions on water, literacy, immunization, cooking oil, milk production,and telecom. Today we have eradicated polio and we are the largest producer of milk. He introduced panchayat Raj and many novel schemes.

— Sam Pitroda (@sampitroda) May 10, 2019

BJP asks for video of Rahul’s interview, Congress says it’ll be screened when Modi holds presser

The 2019 election may only be India’s second polls since the social media wave, but that does not mean that the battle between Twitter accounts of rival political parties has been anything short of sharpened and curated exchanges, aimed at garnering the most likes. Late on Thursday, BJP responded to Congress chief Rahul Gandhi’s challenge to Narendra Modi to appear in an unstaged interview or live debate, by tweeting, “When do you plan to release the video from that memorable interview?”. The party was referring to an interview which Rahul gave to a magazine, a video recording of which, editor Rahul Kanwal tweeted , was done by the Congress.

The Congress, pat in reply, said they were ready to do a special screening the day Modi holds a press conference. 

Dear Rahul Gandhi,

Speaking of interviews, we found this one photo from your India Today interview.

When do you plan to release the video from that memorable interview?

Oh wait - you’re nervous and want to hide something from that interview, right? https://t.co/cR32va27uE pic.twitter.com/Ho21LNuzHu

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 9, 2019

Just let us know the dates of PM's press conference, we'll do a special screening. https://t.co/zbzULx6LGd

— Congress (@INCIndia) May 9, 2019

BJP twisted my words on 1984 riots, says Sam Pitroda

Indian Overseas Congress chief Sam Pitroda hit out at BJP for “twisting his words and distorting facts” to “hide their failures”, while reaffirming that he had acknowledged the pain of Sikhs during the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. On Thursday, Pitroda was asked about BJP’s claim that instructions to “kill” in 1984 had come from late prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, and was quoted by media outlets as having said, “It (riots) happened in 1984, so what?”

“I have noticed how BJP is again twisting three words from my interview to distort facts, divide us and hide their failures. Sad that they have nothing positive to offer,” Pitroda tweeted on Friday. 

Truth is being distorted, lies are being amplified through social media and targeted People are systematically being intimidated. However, truth will always prevail and lies will be exposed. It is just a matter of time. Have patience.

— Sam Pitroda (@sampitroda) May 10, 2019

Will retire today if Arvind Kejriwal can prove allegations, says Gambhir

A day after AAP candidate from Delhi East Atishi accused her BJP opponent Gautam Gambhir of circulating pamphlets with derogatory and casteist remarks against her, the latter asserted that if proven guilty, he would request AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal to draft his resignation letter, which he will tender publicly.

Speaking to ANI, Gambhir said he would retire from politics the day allegations against him are proven. “If he has proof, then he must bring it today. My resignation will be written by Arvind Kejriwal and I will sign it publicly,” said Gambhir. “If they have proof I am ready to retire from politics today itself. I will retire on 23 May if they come with proof but what if he doesn’t turn up with proof? Will he resign as Delhi chief minister and retire from politics?” he asked.

Sisodia threatens defamation note from AAP to BJP now

Delhi deputy chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party leader, Manisha Sisodia on Friday laughed off  the suggestion that BJP had made, in placing the blame of the pamphlet on AAP. He also said it was outrageous that Gautam Gambhir, who AAP is claiming was behind the circulation of the pamphlet, was sending AAP leaders a defamation notice. “We are being defamed and they (BJP) are saying they will file defamation against us? We are going to send defamation notice to them today,” Sisodia told ANI.

Two Navy Commanders confirm Gandhis used warship for holidays, says report

Amid the seemingly unending controversy over the use of naval warship INS Viraat by the Gandhi family for personal use, Times Now  has published a report quoting former Navy officers who have supported the claims made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Former Navy Commander (Retd) VK Jaitly alleged that the Gandhi family had extensively used naval resources during their holidays. Another former Navy officer, Lieutenant Commander Harinder Sikka also supported the allegations.

Rajiv and Sonia Gandhi used INS Viraat for travel to celebrate their holidays at Bangaram island. Indian Navy resources were used extensively. I am a witness. I was posted on INS Viraat that time. Commander VK Jaitly

— Commander VK Jaitly (@vkjaitly) May 9, 2019

Congress election campaign latest updates

Priyanka visits Amethi village after Congress-BJP clash

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday paid a surprise visit to Trishundi village in Amethi assembly segment of Uttar Pradesh to take stock of alleged atrocities on party activists by the police after a clash with BJP workers.

According to Congress sources, Vadra, the general secretary in charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh, met party workers, who told her that this was an example of alleged hooliganism in the state.

The Congress general secretary also talked to Piparpur police station incharge about the incident. The officer informed Vadra that FIRs from both sides were lodged and action was being taken.

PTI

BJP election campaign latest updates

BJP keeps lens trained on Rajiv issue, directs Twitter campaign at deceased PM

Nearly a week after Prime Minister Narendra Modi first brought up late prime minister Rajiv Gandhi and called him “bhrashtachari number one”, the BJP targeted its early morning Twitter campaign at Rajiv’s alleged use of INS Viraat for personal reasons. The party, on its official page on the site, shared alleged snapshots of earlier reports on the Gandhis’ trips to Lakshadweep.

Blast from the past...

when India saw and outraged at the royally ‘austere’ private holiday trip of then PM Rajiv Gandhi with close friends & family who were ferried exclusively on India’s naval vessels in the exotic Lakshadweep that was made out of bounds for ordinary people! pic.twitter.com/k5M6EEBKGa

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 9, 2019

Vacations.

The only answer Naamdars have ever had for all problems of India. pic.twitter.com/sM5FHWZCkA

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 9, 2019

Support pours in for Atishi from political quarters

Women from across the board were not the only ones who have unequivocally called out the slander that AAP leader Atishi was subject to in the pamphlet circulated in the East Delhi constituency. Politicians who have rallied behind her include Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, Shah Faesal, and Vadgam MLA JIgnesh Mevani. For a long time on Thursday and well into Friday, the hashtag #IStandWithAtishi trended on Twitter.

The letter circulated about @AtishiAAP is a new, distressing and disturbing low.

The BJP needs to realise that it's better to lose with dignity than to lose all dignity.

— Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) May 9, 2019

भाजपा की गंदकी चरमसीमा पर : भाजपा के लोग पूर्वी दिल्ली में बहन आतिशी के खिलाफ एक पर्चा बांटकर उसमें ईतना गंदा लिखा है कि आप सोच नहीं शकते। स्वतंत्र भारत के इतिहास में आज तक किसी भी पार्टीने ईतना गंदा चरित्र हनन किसी भी महिला प्रत्याशी का नहीं किया गया। shame on bjp seriously

— Jignesh Mevani (@jigneshmevani80) May 9, 2019

Women activists, journalists rally behind Atishi

With the back and forth between AAP and BJP over the circulation of a pamphlet insulting leaders of AAP in sordid language reaching a crescendo, it is not lost upon many women activists that much of the vitriol in it has been directed at Atishi, AAP’s East Delhi candidate. With the image of Atishi breaking down while speaking at a press conference on the pamphlet unforgotten, many women pledged support for her on Twitter.

Brilliant woman transforms future of Delhi's children - and all they have to say to slander her is that she is...is from different parts of India, different religions, had a relationship with her now husband. Note @GautamGambhir's language, he doesn't say his team didn't do it. https://t.co/snf6Pv7LLH

— Karuna Nundy (@karunanundy) May 9, 2019

That’s the only way they can counter a fierce woman like @AtishiAAP. A strong candidate who is responsible for an education revolution in Delhi schools. https://t.co/CkYGt7IOFg

— Marya Shakil (@maryashakil) May 9, 2019

Didn’t know Kejriwal could stoop so low: Gambhir

Former cricketer and BJP’s candidate from East Delhi constituency, Gautam Gambhir has sent a defamation notice to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders Atishi, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, and Delhi deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia, demanding an unconditional apology for making “defamatory” comments against him.

“I condemn what has happened,” he told ANI. “I am from a family where I have been taught to respect women. I didn’t know Arvind Kejriwal would stoop so low. I have filed a defamation case,” he told the news agency.

I abhor your act of outraging a woman’s modesty @ArvindKejriwal and that too your own colleague. And all this for winning elections? U r filth Mr CM and someone needs ur very own झाड़ू to clean ur dirty mind.

— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) May 9, 2019

My Challenge no.2 @ArvindKejriwal @AtishiAAP
I declare that if its proven that I did it, I will withdraw my candidature right now. If not, will u quit politics?

— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) May 9, 2019

I feel ashamed to have a CM like @ArvindKejriwal

— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) May 9, 2019

Pamphlet row reaches Delhi women’s commission

Reacting to the incident, Delhi Commission for Women chairperson Swati Maliwal tweeted that she was issuing notice to the police to register FIR and arrest culprits. Taking suo motu cognisance of the issue, the DCW has asked the Delhi deputy commissioner of police if an FIR has been registered, the accused behind circulating the pamphlet identified and arrested, and what the current status of the probe is.  

DCW Chief @SwatiJaiHind has taken suo-motu cognizance & written to East Delhi DCP over reports of a pamphlet being circulated against @AtishiAAP . DCW has asked the DCP if FIR's registered, accused identified&arrested & current status of probe. DCP to file reply by 11 May. pic.twitter.com/s1LqYXNsW2

— Vandana Singh (@VandanaSsingh) May 9, 2019

AAP-BJP slugfest over pamphlet turns ugly

With only 48 hours to go before Delhi goes to polls in Phase 6 of Lok Sabha election, back and forth between BJP and AAP over a pamphlet written in sordid language has turned ugly. The Aam Aadmi Party, which has accused BJP East Delhi candidate Gautam Gambhir of distributing copies of a derogatory pamphlet against senior AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Marlena Atishi, said it was contemplating legal action against the cricketer-turned-politician.

Gambhir, meanwhile, has sent a defamation notice to Atishi, Manish Sisodia and Arvind Kejriwal for naming him in this issue and has demanded that they apologise over what he calls are false accusations.

Congress election campaign latest updates

Priyanka to campaign across Uttar Pradesh once again

Congress general secretary for Uttar Pradesh (east) Priyanka Gandhi will address four public rallies at Siddarthnagar (11.20 am), Basti (12.50 pm), Santkabirnagar (2 pm) and Bhadohi (3.50 pm).

Congress election campaign latest updates

Rahul to campaign in Himachal, Chandigarh

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, who in his Delhi rally on Thursday sought to posit his party as the sole challenger to the BJP, will speak at Una in Himachal Pradesh (1.15 pm) and Chandigarh (5 pm). The contempt petition filed against Rahul by BJP leader Meenakshi Lekhi for attributing the chowkidar chor hain remark to the Supreme Court will be heard on Friday.

BJP election campaign latest updates

Amit Shah to campaign in Haryana

BJP president Amit Shah is scheduled to hold two rallies in Haryana, one at Hisar (11 am) and the other at Dadri (12.30 pm). Friday is the last day of campaigning in the 59 constituencies which will vote in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha election, on Sunday

भाजपा अध्यक्ष श्री @AmitShah 10 मई 2019 को हरियाणा के हिसार और भिवानी-महेंद्रगढ़ लोक सभा क्षेत्रों में विशाल जनसभाओं को संबोधित करेंगे।

लाइव देखें
∙ https://t.co/vpP0MInUi4
∙ https://t.co/KrGm5idRUX
∙ https://t.co/lcXkSnNPDn
∙ NaMoTV pic.twitter.com/FxqHzSRlS5

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 9, 2019

BJP election campaign latest updates

Narendra Modi to campaign in northern states today

With the slugfest over his “INS Viraat” jibe on late Rajiv Gandhi still on, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to campaign in Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Punjab on Friday. He is expected to speak in public meetings as Rohtak (11 am), Mandi (2.20 pm) and Hathiarpur (4.05 pm).

प्रधानमंत्री श्री नरेन्द्र मोदी 10 मई 2019 को हरियाणा, हिमाचल प्रदेश और पंजाब में विशाल जनसभाओं को सम्बोधित करेंगें।

लाइव देखें
∙ https://t.co/vpP0MI6iTu
∙ https://t.co/KrGm5hWgwn
∙ https://t.co/lcXkSnweeN
∙ https://t.co/EyN23goWO7
∙ NaMo TV pic.twitter.com/wu3wV8WRta

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 9, 2019