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INDIA 2024 India News Politics

Chidambaram says Congress manifesto making BJP jealous

Chidambaram, a senior Congress leader, underscored that the party’s manifesto explicitly acknowledges the presence of social and economic disparities…reports Asian Lite News

Former Union Minister P Chidambaram issued a robust challenge to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other BJP leaders, daring them to identify a single paragraph in the Congress manifesto that could be construed as “appeasement.” This response came in the wake of accusations leveled by Modi and the BJP against the Congress, alleging that their manifesto advocated appeasement policies, including wealth redistribution and reservations for Muslims from the quotas allocated for SC, ST, and OBC communities.

Chidambaram, a senior Congress leader, underscored that the party’s manifesto explicitly acknowledges the presence of social and economic disparities and pledges to address them for all sections of society, regardless of religious affiliation. He asserted that the primary beneficiaries of Congress’s proposed policies would be the most marginalized groups, including Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and the economically disadvantaged, irrespective of their religious identity. In his retort to accusations of appeasement, he adamantly stated, “If bringing justice is considered appeasement, so be it.”

Furthermore, Chidambaram highlighted the resonance of the Congress manifesto among the populace, contrasting it with what he deemed the lackluster reception of the BJP’s manifesto, mockingly titled “Modi ki Guarantee.” He noted the disparity in campaign resources, acknowledging the financial advantage enjoyed by the BJP, which reportedly amassed a substantial sum through electoral bonds. Despite this financial asymmetry, Chidambaram expressed confidence in the people’s support for the Congress, asserting that they would compensate for the party’s resource limitations.

In response to Modi’s ambitious claim of securing 400 seats, Chidambaram delivered a pointed jab, questioning the feasibility of such a victory, particularly given the BJP’s relatively modest presence in states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala. He ridiculed Modi’s assertion, humorously suggesting that unless the BJP planned to contest elections in another country, achieving 400 seats seemed implausible.

Chidambaram’s remarks underscored the Congress’s staunch defense of its manifesto and its commitment to addressing social and economic inequalities without regard to religious considerations. Moreover, his critique of the BJP’s campaign tactics and ambitious electoral projections portrayed a sense of skepticism towards the ruling party’s electoral strategies.

ALSO READ: Farmers protest BJP candidates across Punjab

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INDIA 2024 India News Politics

Heatwave sweeps through states as people go to poll

heatwave.

The voter turnout for the first phase of the general elections settled at 65.5%, marking a decline from the previous election’s 69.9% in the same constituencies….reports Asian Lite News

As the nation braces for another round of elections, the scorching heatwave sweeping through several states poses an additional challenge to both political parties and voters alike. With the BJP eyeing a third consecutive term and the INDIA bloc striving to impede its victory, the rising political fervour coincides with soaring temperatures, potentially impacting voter turnout.

The voter turnout for the first phase of the general elections settled at 65.5%, marking a decline from the previous election’s 69.9% in the same constituencies. Concerns are particularly heightened for the second phase, as 13 states and Union Territories prepare to cast their votes amidst heatwave warnings issued for parts of West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Karnataka.

Data from constituencies in Bihar exemplifies the correlation between high temperatures and voter turnout. In Nawada and Gaya, where temperatures soared above 40 degrees Celsius, the voter turnout dropped significantly compared to cooler days during previous elections. With the India Meteorological Department predicting an intensification of heatwaves, the Election Commission, led by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, convened a high-level meeting to assess the situation.

Preparations are underway to mitigate the impact of the heatwave on voting. Measures include ensuring adequate facilities such as awnings, drinking water, and fans at all polling stations. Chief Electoral Officers of the states are coordinating efforts to provide relief from the scorching heat, especially in regions susceptible to low voter turnout like Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.

Voters are advised to take precautions to safeguard their health in the sweltering heat. Recommendations from the National Disaster Management Authority include wearing light-coloured, loose-fitting clothes, covering the head with a cap or cloth, and staying hydrated by carrying plenty of fluids. It’s also advised to stay updated with the daily forecast and advisories from the India Meteorological Department.

In the face of both political tension and environmental challenges, the resilience of democracy hinges on the participation of voters, who must navigate the heatwave to exercise their fundamental right to vote. As the nation embarks on another electoral journey, ensuring the safety and well-being of voters remains paramount amidst the rising temperatures and political fervour.

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Mayawati pledges to work for a new state

Lucknow: Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati addresses a press conference at her residence, in Lucknow, Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2023.(IANS/Twitter:@Mayawati)

Critiquing the Congress, BJP, and Samajwadi Party (SP), Mayawati accused them of neglecting the interests of SC/ST communities and obstructing their access to reservation benefits…reports Asian Lite News

BSP chief Mayawati, addressing an election rally in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, made several promises aimed at addressing longstanding grievances and advocating for the rights of marginalized communities. Mayawati pledged to work towards the creation of a separate state comprising districts of western Uttar Pradesh and to establish a bench of the Allahabad High Court in Meerut if her party secures power at the Centre.

Critiquing the Congress, BJP, and Samajwadi Party (SP), Mayawati accused them of neglecting the interests of SC/ST communities and obstructing their access to reservation benefits. She vowed that, if elected, her party would actively address the demands and concerns of the region, including the establishment of an Allahabad High Court bench in Meerut.

Highlighting her party’s previous efforts to advocate for a separate state for western Uttar Pradesh, Mayawati lamented the lack of action from the central government on this matter. She affirmed her commitment to pursuing this cause if the BSP gains power at the national level.

Mayawati also criticized the alleged failure of the quota system in government jobs, particularly for Dalits, Adivasis, and OBCs, and condemned the SP for allegedly undermining reservation policies during its tenure in Uttar Pradesh. She accused the SP of obstructing legislation aimed at protecting reservation rights and of neglecting the interests of marginalized communities.

Further lambasting the Congress and BJP for their casteist and pro-capitalist policies, Mayawati argued that these parties have failed to ensure the holistic development of marginalized groups. She called for voters to prevent the Congress, BJP, and their allies from assuming power, cautioning against their divisive tactics.

In a departure from past electoral strategies, Mayawati revealed that her party had nominated Dervrat Tyagi instead of a Muslim candidate in Meerut. She urged voters to support the BSP candidate in the upcoming elections, emphasizing the importance of their collective voice in shaping the future of the region.

The BSP’s promises and Mayawati’s rallying cry underscored a commitment to addressing longstanding grievances and advocating for the rights of marginalized communities in Uttar Pradesh. As the elections approach, Mayawati’s words resonate with voters, highlighting the stakes involved in shaping the political landscape of the state.

ALSO READ: KS Eshwarappa expelled from BJP for 6 years

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Congress says BSP playing role of BJP’s ‘B-team’

Ali alleged that the BSP’s candidates had been determined by the ruling party…reports Asian Lite News

Congress leader Danish Ali, contesting from Uttar Pradesh’s Amroha on a Congress ticket after his departure from the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), accused the BSP of acting as the “B-team” of the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections.

Ali alleged that the BSP’s candidates had been determined by the ruling party, emphasizing his belief that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent criticism of him in a poll rally indicated Modi’s “frustration” over Ali’s efforts to challenge the government in parliament.

In response to Modi’s attack questioning Ali’s commitment to saying “Bharat Mata ki jai,” Ali countered by asserting that neither the BJP nor Modi held a monopoly over patriotism, particularly since those who had not raised the tricolor at their ideological headquarters for over five decades after Independence should refrain from such criticisms.

Regarding Mayawati and the BSP’s criticism of him, Ali suggested that the BSP and BJP were in collusion to thwart the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) and specifically target him. He accused the BSP of straying from its founding principles and claimed that the party’s candidates were being influenced by the BJP.

Despite these challenges, Ali expressed confidence that support from BSP workers and Scheduled Caste organizations for the INDIA bloc was growing, recognizing the magnitude of the threat posed by divisive forces to the country’s constitution and reservation system.

Ali’s decision to join the Congress, he asserted, marked the culmination of his political and ideological journey, aligning himself with the party’s commitment to social justice under the leadership of Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi. He dismissed derogatory remarks made against him by BJP MP Ramesh Bidhuri and emphasized that his candidacy received support from diverse communities opposed to the politics of hate.

Addressing concerns about BJP’s actions, Ali criticized the party’s alleged inconsistency between its rhetoric and actions, citing Modi’s inflammatory speech in Rajasthan. He expressed confidence in his reelection prospects in Amroha, citing the impact of recent rallies by Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav as a turning point in the electoral dynamics of the constituency.

Ali’s journey from the BSP to the Congress reflects his conviction in aligning with a party committed to combating divisive forces and promoting inclusive governance. Despite facing criticism and challenges, Ali remains resolute in his determination to serve the people and uphold the principles of social justice and constitutional values.

ALSO READ: Weak BJP not fielding candidates from Kashmir: Congress

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Modi slams Congress candidate’s remark on Constitution

Modi underscored BJP’s commitment to inclusive development, contrasting it with Congress’s legacy of empty slogans and failed promises. ..reports Asian Lite News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lambasted the Congress party during an election rally in Chhattisgarh, denouncing their candidate’s controversial statement in Goa regarding the imposition of the Indian Constitution. Modi accused Congress of resorting to divisive tactics and criticized their historical approach of religious polarization since independence. He highlighted Congress’s discomfort with the empowerment of marginalized communities like Dalits, Adivasis, and backward classes, alleging that the party seeks to undermine their participation in governance.

Referring to recent remarks by a Congress candidate from South Goa, Viriato Fernandes, Modi condemned the suggestion that the Constitution was forced upon Goa, calling it an insult to the architect of the Constitution, Babasaheb Ambedkar. He warned against the dangers of such rhetoric, asserting that Congress’s rejection of the Constitution in Goa could pave the way for similar actions across the country.

Modi underscored BJP’s commitment to inclusive development, contrasting it with Congress’s legacy of empty slogans and failed promises. He emphasized BJP’s track record of poverty alleviation and women’s empowerment, highlighting the government’s efforts in lifting millions out of poverty in the past decade.

Addressing allegations of BJP planning to amend the Constitution, Modi dismissed them as baseless, affirming that even the architect of the Constitution, Babasaheb Ambedkar, would be unable to abolish it. He criticized Congress for its vote-bank politics and appeasement strategies, asserting BJP’s commitment to serving all sections of society.

Modi also took aim at Congress’s perceived arrogance, citing their refusal to attend the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya as an insult to Hindu sentiments and the cultural heritage of Chhattisgarh. He further criticized Congress for opposing the appointments of Dalit and tribal individuals to high offices during BJP’s tenure.

In conclusion, Modi expressed gratitude to the people of Chhattisgarh for their support in the previous assembly elections and appealed for their continued backing in the upcoming polls. He urged voters to choose BJP and the NDA alliance for the country’s progress and development.

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‘BJP tries to kill, imprison people who speak out against it’

South Dinajpur: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee speaks during an election campaign rally for Lok Sabha polls, in South Dinajpur, Sunday, April 21, 2024.(IANS)

Banerjee expressed her bewilderment at the BJP’s intimidation tactics, questioning why they were resorting to such measures if they were confident…reports Asian Lite News

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has levelled serious accusations against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging a campaign of violence and intimidation against those opposing them. This was during an election rally in support of Trinamul Congress (TMC) candidate Satabdi Roy for the Birbhum Lok Sabha seat.

Banerjee’s concern stemmed from the recent arrest by Kolkata Police of a Mumbai resident, purportedly linked to a meeting with 26/11 attack accused David Headley, who was allegedly conducting surveillance on the residence and office of her nephew, Abhishek Banerjee, a TMC national general secretary.

Banerjee expressed her bewilderment at the BJP’s intimidation tactics, questioning why they were resorting to such measures if they were confident in their prospects for winning the polls. She cited instances where BJP leaders made threatening remarks, with one even declaring intentions to detonate a bomb, prompting Banerjee to challenge them to target her instead. She highlighted the gravity of the situation by emphasizing that the arrested individual had conducted a reconnaissance of Abhishek’s residence and attempted to set up a meeting, potentially endangering his life.

The chief minister accused the BJP of attempting to silence dissenting voices by either eliminating or incarcerating them, portraying them as a threat to democracy. Banerjee’s concerns were further fueled by remarks made by the Leader of the Opposition in the assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, hinting at a significant disruptive event aimed at the TMC leadership.

The arrest of the individual, identified as Rajaram Rege, from Mumbai by the Special Task Force of Kolkata Police intensified the political tension. Rege, allegedly associated with a political party in Maharashtra, had reportedly made contact attempts with Abhishek Banerjee and his personal assistant, raising suspicion of sinister motives. Additional Commissioner of Police Murlidhar Sharma revealed Rege’s prior connection with David Headley, adding a layer of complexity to the situation.

Banerjee’s apprehensions about her safety and that of her nephew were validated by these events, prompting concerns over their security despite receiving Z+ security cover. The developments underscored the intense political rivalry in West Bengal, with the specter of violence and intimidation looming large over the electoral landscape.

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Patnaik’s ‘double conch’ challenge to BJP’s narrative

The unique symbol was introduced to counter the BJP’s rhetoric of establishing a ‘double engine’ government at both the central and state levels…reports Asian Lite News

Odisha Chief Minister and BJD leader, Naveen Patnaik, recently advocated for the symbol of the ‘double conch’ in the upcoming simultaneous Lok Sabha and assembly elections in the state.

This unique symbol was introduced to counter the BJP’s rhetoric of establishing a ‘double engine’ government at both the central and state levels.

In a promotional video circulated by the BJD, Patnaik is depicted holding two conch symbols, which represent the party’s logo, urging voters to support the concept of ‘double conch’ while casting their votes.

Patnaik emphasized the significance of voting for ‘double conch,’ encouraging citizens to allocate one vote for their MLA (Member of Legislative Assembly) and another for their MP (Member of Parliament).

The elections in Odisha are scheduled to be conducted in four phases from May 13 to June 1, adding to the anticipation surrounding Patnaik’s electoral strategies.

As Patnaik prepares to embark on his campaign journey, starting from his stronghold of Hinjili in Ganjam district, he plans to contest from two assembly constituencies this time—Hinjili, his current constituency, and Kantabanji in western Odisha.

Having represented Hinjili since 2000 and being elected five consecutive times, Patnaik stands poised to potentially secure his position as the longest-serving chief minister in the country if re-elected.

Ahead of his campaign kick-off, the fervor among supporters is palpable, with women observed performing pujas in various temples across Hinjili, expressing their hopes for Patnaik’s victory.

Interestingly, Patnaik’s campaign launch coincides with Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s planned rally in Sonepur, Bolangir Lok Sabha seat, underscoring the competitive political landscape in Odisha.

Additionally, Patnaik’s itinerary includes campaigning for BJD candidates in Rayagada district on April 25, further intensifying the electoral fervor in the state.

With four Lok Sabha seats—Kalahandi, Nabarangpur, Berhampur, and Koraput—along with their corresponding assembly segments slated for polls on May 13, the political dynamics in Odisha are poised for a significant transformation.

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Nara Lokesh declares assets worth Rs 543 cr

The value surge amounted to ₹169 crore since 2019….reports Asian Lite News

Over the past five years, the assets of Nara Lokesh, son of former Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, along with his wife, have witnessed a substantial surge from ₹373 crore in 2019 to a staggering ₹542 crore, marking a remarkable 45% increase.

This significant rise was disclosed in an affidavit submitted by Lokesh as the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) MLA candidate for the Mangalagiri Assembly constituency. The value surge amounted to ₹169 crore since 2019.

However, amidst this financial ascent, Lokesh faces legal challenges, with 24 criminal cases, including his alleged involvement in the Amaravati Inner Road (IRR) scam.

The bulk of Lokesh’s movable assets, valued at ₹394 crore, comprises shares in prominent entities like Heritage Foods, Heritage Finlease, Nirvana Holdings, and Megabid Finance. Meanwhile, his immovable assets, primarily properties situated in Hyderabad’s upscale areas such as Jubilee Hills, Manikonda, Madinaguda, and Madhapur, account for ₹148 crore.

Financially, in the fiscal year 2022-2023, Lokesh and his family garnered a revenue of ₹9 crore from company earnings, dividends, wages, and rentals, while facing obligations amounting to ₹18 crore. Despite his substantial wealth and business endeavors, Lokesh, armed with an MBA from Stanford University, claims to be primarily engaged in politics as a form of social service.

The forthcoming elections for the 175-member Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh are slated for May 13, setting the stage for political scrutiny and potential transformation in the state’s governance landscape.

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TDP vows to scrap Land Titling Act if voted to power

Chandrababu Naidu said that if the act comes into force the people have no security on their lands….reports Asian Lite News

TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu said that if his party comes to power Andhra Pradesh Land Titling Act will be rescinded. He added that if the act comes into force the people have no security on their lands.

Addressing a public meeting at Pathapatnam of Srikakulam district on Tuesday during his Praja Galam, Naidu also promised to complete the remaining works of the Polavaram project with the cooperation of the Centre.

The TDP supremo assured the government employees of setting up a better Pay Revision Commission (PRC) and clearing all the pending dues to them.

Observing that the middle-class and lower middle-class people are suffering a lot from the rising prices of all commodities, the TDP national president also promised to control the prices of all products immediately after coming back to power.

Naidu said that the Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA) will be strengthened to get better benefits and facilities for all the Girijans in the State.

The TDP supremo made an appeal to the youth to carry the flags of all the three partners of the NDA to bring awareness among the people on the need to support the alliance.

Chandrababu also promised to come to the rescue of the Vamsadhara displaced.

“You all got carried away by the false promises made by the YSRCP leaders, including its president, Jagan Mohan Reddy, in the last elections and voted for that party. But Jagan, after becoming the Chief Minister, without utilising the opportunity given to him destroyed the State,” Chandrababu said.

He alleged that Jagan laid the foundation for the devastation with the demolition of the Praja Vedika and even ruined Amaravathi besides causing huge damage to Polavaram.

He also alleged that Jagan is ruling the roost only to loot the State with sand, land, liquor and mining mafia. Naidu said that the living standards of all sections of people have come down drastically.

Naidu clarified that the alliance of the three parties is only for the welfare and benefit of the State and termed the Jana Sena chief, Pawan Kalyan, as a real hero even in real life.

He is confident that the BJP is coming back to power at the Centre and made it clear that the alliance is for the benefit of employment for the youth, for security of women and for the welfare of the farming community.

Majority of the daily-wage labourers are from Srikakulam district, he said and stated that Srikakulam Colonies are existing even in cities like Hyderabad, New Delhi and Vijayawada.

“The immediate need is to provide employment in the district to check these migrations. If proper education is provided to the youth this is possible and they will get employment in this area itself,” he said.

Alleging that the suicides of farmers are raising alarmingly in the past three to four years, he said this is because the farming sector is hit hard in the YSRCP rule.

“Immediately after we come to power Minimum Support Price (MSP) will be provided for all the farm products and crop insurance will be implemented,” he stated.

Jagan, who promised to bring down the power charges before coming to power, has revised the tariff at least nine times in these five years, he said and added that the monthly power bill which was just Rs 200 earlier has now gone up to Rs 1,000 per month.

“During the TDP regime I have never revised the power tariff and in fact, brought in solar power reforms with which the farmers got some revenue with these reforms,” Chandrababu said.

The TDP supremo asked the people whether Jagan has issued a job calendar and announced Mega DSC as promised and said that the youth did not get even a single person got a job in these five years.

If youth want jobs Babu should be back in power and if people want ganja Jagan should come back, he said and promised to increase the monthly remuneration to the volunteers to Rs 10,000.

Assuring women that he will stand by them, Chandrababu felt that the Super-Six will totally transform the living standards of women.

He also promised to increase the monthly pension to Rs 4,000 to all the beneficiaries which will be implemented from April this year itself.

Jagan should stop this politics and distribute the pension at the doorstep of the beneficiaries, he said.

The TDP supremo made an appeal to the people to elect Ram Mohan Naidu to the Lok Sabha from here and Govinda Rao to the Assembly and promised to complete all the pending projects in the area immediately after coming to power. (ANI)

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High voltage campaigning in Jammu

The Election Commission (EC) has set up 2416 polling stations including 666 urban and 1750 rural polling stations…reports Asian Lite News

Poll campaign reached a high voltage on Tuesday in the Jammu Lok Sabha constituency where 17,80,738 electors will decide the fate of 22 candidates on April 26.

Jugal Kishore Sharma of the BJP is seeking re-election from this constituency for the third time and his main opponent is Raman Bhalla of the Congress supported by the NC that hasn’t fielded any candidate to improve the electoral chances of the Congress candidate.

After the abrogation of Article 370 and the new delimitation of constituencies, the Jammu Lok Sabha constituency includes 18 voting segments spread in Jammu, Samba and Reasi districts plus some posts in the Rajouri district.

The Election Commission (EC) has set up 2416 polling stations including 666 urban and 1750 rural polling stations. Special polling stations have been set up exclusively for physically challenged voters.

For the first time, voters above 85 years can cast their votes at home and these will be collected by the poll staff.

Videography, webcasting and other technical features have also been installed to supervise a fair poll across the constituency.

BJP top leadership including Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh have campaigned for the BJP candidate while senior Congress leaders and NC’s Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah have addressed election meetings in support of the Congress candidate.

Candidates are now going door to door to seek the support of the voters. This Lok Sabha election is significant because it is the first time that the voters would be exercising franchise after the abrogation of Article 370 and downgrading of J&K into a union territory.

The focus of all the poll campaigns by various political parties in the constituency has been development, healthcare, road and rail connectivity, employment, education and tourism.

No contesting candidate has tried to stoke discord among the voters by raising religious or ethnic and regional issues. BJP has accused the Congress of bad governance and lack of control over violence during its governments in the state while the Congress has blamed the BJP for denying J&K an elected government.

J&K Police Chief, R.R.Swain has been visiting the various districts in this constituency to address the minutest details of security and to provide a fearless and fair environment for the voters to come and exercise their franchise in large numbers.

Security forces have been put on maximum alert and a substantial deployment of paramilitary forces consisting of 40,000 personnel has been made in Jammu, Samba, Reasi, and Rajouri districts.

As many voting segments are close to the international border in this constituency, BSF guarding the international border and the army guarding the line of control (LoC) have heightened vigil in these sectors.

A large number of first-time voters will also exercise their democratic rights during the voting in this constituency.

BJP names Gyalson as Ladakh candidate

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday announced Tashi Gyalson, a former party general secretary of the Ladakh unit, as its candidate from the Ladakh constituency replacing its current MP Jamyang Tsering Namgyal from the Lok Sabha seat.

Tashi Gyalson is a councillor from the Lingshed constituency and in 2020 was elected as chairman and chief executive councillor of the 6th Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, (LAHDC), Leh.

He joined the BJP after the BJP-PDP coalition government in the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir collapsed. He was then a member of the PDP.

Speaking to ANI on his candidature Tashi Gyalson said, “I thank PM Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, party national president JP Nadda, and party leaders, and workers for showing confidence in me.”

“I do not think it is that challenging in Ladakh because a lot of work has been done in Ladakh. I have confidence that people will trust PM Modi and BJP will win,” he said.

Ladakh will go to polls on May 20.

In 2014, BJP won the lone Lok Sabha seat from Ladakh with the slimmest of margins that year (36 votes), and in 2019 it was feted for fulfilling a long-pending promise of abrogation of Article 370.

The party’s candidate Jamyang Namgyal won the seat in 2019 with a margin of 10,000 votes.

Meanwhile, activist Sonam Wangchuk is protesting for statehood and the 6th Schedule for the Ladakh Union Territory.

The people of Ladakh are demanding statehood, inclusion under the 6th schedule of the Indian Constitution, and other rights.

The key demands include- statehood and inclusion under the 6th Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which grants special rights to tribal communities, and stronger ecological protections for Ladakh.

The people also demanded an end to the clampdown on peaceful protests, the lifting of the internet ban, and the revocation of Section 144 CRPC, which prohibits the assembly of more than four people in certain areas.

Earlier, on April 5, Section 144 was imposed in Ladakh’s Leh following the ongoing protest. (ANI)

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