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Sun, 19 October 2014
At least 70 ISIS bodies dropped off at Syrian hospital
Timeline Refresh
23:58 NIA team visits blast site to ascertain opposition allegations
A three-member team of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) today visited the blast site at Khagragarh to ascertain allegations by opposition parties that an office of the ruling Trinamool Congress was located there.
The opposition parties had alleged that the ruling party's office was there in the house where the blast took place and some ruling party leaders were known to the suspects.
23:57 NIA team visits blast site to ascertain opposition allegations
A three-member team of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) today visited the blast site at Khagragarh to ascertain allegations by opposition parties that an office of the ruling Trinamool Congress was located there.
The opposition parties had alleged that the ruling party's office was there in the house where the blast took place and some ruling party leaders were known to the suspects.
22:24 At least 70 ISIS bodies dropped off at Syrian hospital
ISIS has apparently taken a heavy hit over the past several days. The bodies of at least 70 fighters for the terror group have been dropped off over four days at a hospital in the Syrian town of Tal Abyad, a Syrian opposition group told CNN.
Tal Abyad is on the Turkish border and about 80 kilometers (50 miles) from Raqqa.The Islamic State in Iraq and Syria took control of Raqqa last year. ISIS uses the once-liberal city as a kind of headquarters where it applies its hardline interpretation of Islamic law, terrorizing the population.
22:09 US lab worker on cruise tests negative for Ebola
A cruise ship carrying a lab worker suspected of contact with Ebola returned to Texas on today, as US media reported the woman had tested negative for the deadly disease.
The Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital lab supervisor and her husband were the first passengers to disembark from the massive cruise ship, and were both screened by CDC doctors, local reporter Larry Seward said on Twitter, citing an executive with Carnival Cruise Lines.
22:05 Obama and Erdogan promise to intensify IS fight in Syria
US President Barack Obama called his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan and they pledged to step up the fight against the Islamic State group in Syria, the White House said.
Kurdish fighters have been under IS assault for more than a month around Kobane, which has become a key prize as it is being fought under the gaze of the world's press massed just over the border in Turkey.
22:03 Britain threatens Internet 'trolls' with two years in jail
People found guilty of Internet "trolling" in Britain could be jailed for up to two years under government proposals outlined today, following a number of high-profile cases of abusive and threatening behaviour on Twitter.
Justice Secretary Chris Grayling told the Mail today newspaper: "This is a law to combat cruelty -- and marks our determination to take a stand against a baying cyber-mob."
21:35 13 women set to enter Haryana assembly, highest number ever
For the first time in Haryana, known for its skewed sex ratio, 13 women will enter the state Assembly out of 116 women candidates who contested the polls.
BJP, which got the majority, has given the maximum eight women candidates to the 90-member Haryana Assembly.
Congress has three women candidates declared as winners while INLD and HJC have one each. Among the sitting women MLAs who were re-elected include Congress ministers Geeta Bhukkal and Kiran Choudhary, Renuka Bishnoi (HJC-BL), Shakuntla Khatak (Congress) and Kavita Jain (BJP).
21:33 Vidarbha votes for BJP, setback for Cong in cotton belt
Maharashtra's Vidarbha region, where separate statehood demand is a contentious issue, has overwhelmingly come out in support of BJP, which won 43 of the 62 seats while Congress suffered a setback. Congress' tally dropped from 24 in 2009 to 10 seats.
BJP, a strong votary of small states, seems to have struck a chord with voters in Vidarbha, a cotton-rich belt which has become infamous for farmer suicides-- an issue raised in this election also, as its bagged 43 seats against 19 in the last assembly poll.
20:48 Nadda remains elusive on alignment
During the press conference after the Parliamentary Board meet ended, when asked about which party would the BJP align with in Maharashtra, JP Nadda said, "First we will pick who the CM will be in the two states and then see how we want to form the government."
Image: PM Modi and president Amit Shah leave after the board meeting ended. Photograph: ANI/Twitter
20:32 BJPs Parliamentary Board selects observers for Haryana, Maharashtra
Minutes after the BJP's Parliamentary Board meet ended, senior leader JP Nadda addressed the media. He said, "In the Parliamentary Board meeting we analyzed in detail the results of the elections in Maharashtra and Haryana." "We accept the people's verdict in Haryana and Maharashtra with deep humility. We thank all the party workers for their support and help in the elections," he added. Nadda went on to express his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and president Amit Shah's leadership. "The credit for the win goes to PM Modi and BJP president Amit Shah.' He added that Rajnath Singh and JP Nadda will go to Maharashtra as observer while Venkaiah Naidu and Dinesh Sharma would go to Haryana. The observers will illicit the views of state leadership on government formation.
20:13 BJP Parliamentary Board meeting ends
BJP's top leaders exit after the BJP's Parliamentary Board meeting ends. The meeting was called to decide the party's strategy, including which party to align with, the next chief minister, after the BJP emerged as the single largest party in the BJP.
Image: BJP leaders Venkaiah Naidu and Rajnath Singh spotted after the meeting. Photograph: ANI/Twitter
20:07 Punjab CM congratulates PM Modi, BJP president Amit Shah
Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah on their party's strong showing in key elections to Haryana and Maharashtra assemblies. The CM, in a statement, expressed hope that the new governments in both the states would live up to the expectations of the electorate.
19:47 Amit Shah calls Uddhav
NDTV reports that BJP president Amit Shah has called Uddhav Thackeray. Uddhav's wait and watch seems to have worked. PTI however reports that Uddhav has called Shah. Whichever way it goes, the likelihood of the BJP teaming up with the NCP seems slim.
19:43 Pankaja still wants to be 'Maharashtra's first woman CM', her website says
Maharashtra BJP president Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday said that Pankaja Munde had called him to say she had been misquoted over her statement that she wanted to be CM. "She herself called me up to explain that only half her statements were aired or printed," Fadnavis said. "She was upset over the statements attributed to her that appeared in the media."
However, on her website, http://www.pankajagopinathmunde.com/ a slideshow with her pictures, carries this message in Marathi: I want to be Maharashtra's first woman CM. The photograph reads: (Mala Maharashtrachi pahila mahila mukhyamantri vyahyla awdel).
On Friday, Pankaja created a stir in political circles by saying that she was willing to head the BJP government to fulfil the "aspirations" of her supporters and her late father's "dream". Pankaja, who is the daughter of the late Gopinath Munde, was talking informally to mediapersons.
However, on her website, http://www.pankajagopinathmunde.com/ a slideshow with her pictures, carries this message in Marathi: I want to be Maharashtra's first woman CM. The photograph reads: (Mala Maharashtrachi pahila mahila mukhyamantri vyahyla awdel).
On Friday, Pankaja created a stir in political circles by saying that she was willing to head the BJP government to fulfil the "aspirations" of her supporters and her late father's "dream". Pankaja, who is the daughter of the late Gopinath Munde, was talking informally to mediapersons.
19:24 MNS wins just one seat
Time to write MNS's epitaph? The party has won just one seat in a 288-member assembly.
Not a peep out of Raj Thackeray and that's saying something since even the reticent Rahul Gandhi has made a statement
Not a peep out of Raj Thackeray and that's saying something since even the reticent Rahul Gandhi has made a statement
19:22 Uddhav: We defeated those who caused anguish to Bal Thackeray
About BJP patriarch L K Advani's comments favouring a reunion with Shiv Sena, Uddhav said, "This is what I had expected. When Balasaheb (Sena founder Bal Thackeray), Atal Behari Vajpayee, Advani, Pramod Mahajan and Gopinath Munde were around, ours was not just a political alliance, but a close relationship."
"We have secured 60 seats which is not a bad performance," he said, adding "nobody can corner me. We defeated those who caused anguish to late Bal Thackeray," Uddhav said, in an apparent reference to the defeat of former Sena leaders Narayan Rane and Ganesh Naik.
"We have secured 60 seats which is not a bad performance," he said, adding "nobody can corner me. We defeated those who caused anguish to late Bal Thackeray," Uddhav said, in an apparent reference to the defeat of former Sena leaders Narayan Rane and Ganesh Naik.
19:12
PM Modi thanks Maharashtra, Haryana voters.
19:07 Neither rejoiced on Jaya being jailed nor regretted bail: Karunanidhi
In his first significant remarks on the issue of his archrival AIADMK chief J Jayalalithaa being convicted in a graft case, DMK President M Karunanidhi today claimed that he neither rejoiced over her being jailed nor did he regret about her securing bail in the Supreme Court. Explaining his silence on this matter, he said he did not react immediately after the judgement was out since this was an important case and that he had decided to carefully study the verdict and then "explain".
19:04
The BJP Parliamentary meet still on. It's exactly an hour since the meeting was convened.
19:03
53,613 voters exercised None Of The Above (NOTA) in the Haryana assembly polls.
19:02
Sudhir Mungantiwar (BJP) says, "No one would want to go with NCP after people have voted against them."
18:46
Now that the Shiv Sena has stepped down from its demand for the CM's seat, the BJP may just go with its 25-year-old ally.
18:38 Uddhav: BJP is free to go with the NCP
Uddhav Thackeray addressing a press meet: The Shiv Sena chief says the BJP can go with NCP if they want. "We are ready for a CM from the BJP. We want a deputy CM for the Sena. The Sena hasn't given any proposal to the BJP. We will consider an alliance if we get an offer. Expect the BJP to ask the Sena to form a coalition government."
"I'm going to be sitting quietly in my home in Mumbai. What's the point in making a proposal to the BJP if they accept the NCP's proposal? Also if the Sena gives a proposal, and they don't accept it, what's the point? If I give a proposal and they say no, then? Therefore its better to wait," says Uddhav.
"I'm going to be sitting quietly in my home in Mumbai. What's the point in making a proposal to the BJP if they accept the NCP's proposal? Also if the Sena gives a proposal, and they don't accept it, what's the point? If I give a proposal and they say no, then? Therefore its better to wait," says Uddhav.
18:27 Peda khao, khush ho jao
In the elections, seen as the first test of Modi's popularity after his Lok Sabha victory, the BJP mascot proved that the party's show in May was not a flash in the pan though a majority eluded it in Maharashtra. He had campaigned extensively in both the states, addressing 27 rallies in Maharashtra and 11 in Haryana.
Pic: Ecstatic BJP supporters celebrate the party's win
Pic: Ecstatic BJP supporters celebrate the party's win
18:24 Modi tweets his 'gratitude' to people of Maharashtra
Ahead of the Parliamentary Party meet, the PM tweeted: "My gratitude to people of Maharashtra. We are committed to Maharashtra's progress & creating a Maharashtra the world will be proud of: PM."
Pic: Arun Jaitley arrives for the Parl Party meet
Pic: Arun Jaitley arrives for the Parl Party meet
18:21 Modi, Rajnath, Jaitley arrive for BJP Parl meet
Narendra Modi, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Rajnath Singh, Arun Jaitley arrive for the BJP Parliamentary Board meeting at the HQ's in Delhi. Modi was greeted by Amit Shah.
BJP's Subramanian Swamy says that Uddhav Thackeray has earned his spurs.
BJP's Subramanian Swamy says that Uddhav Thackeray has earned his spurs.
18:20
Shiv Sena sources tell NDTV that it is ready for a CM from the BJP, deputy CM from Sena.
18:15 BJP Parliamentary Party meet begins
It's still wait and watch for the Shiv Sena. The party says it expects a proposal from the BJP.
Will pride come before fall? The answer will be known soon enough as the BJP Parliamentary Party begins its meet.
Will pride come before fall? The answer will be known soon enough as the BJP Parliamentary Party begins its meet.
18:09
Narendra Modi tweets: Historic results! A matter of immense happiness & pride for BJP. I salute our Karyakartas for their tireless efforts.
17:58 Over 2,200 independents lost in Maharashtra, Haryana polls
Over 2,200 independents have lost in Maharashtra and Haryana assembly elections, results of which were announced today. As many as 2,302 independent candidates -- 1,699 from Maharashtra and 603 from Haryana-- contested the assembly elections.
Of these, only 11 could win and 2,290 others lost their seats, as per the results announced by the Election Commission.
Pic: Devendra Fadnavis accepts the election certificate
Of these, only 11 could win and 2,290 others lost their seats, as per the results announced by the Election Commission.
Pic: Devendra Fadnavis accepts the election certificate
17:42 Pre-planned. Public knows what Praful Patel is known for: Cong on NCP support
Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit on NCP offering support to the BJP: This must be the beginning of some deal between Praful Patel and the BJP. Dirty politics has started. It might be pre-planning. Public knows what Praful Patel is known for."
17:37 Sena: We too didn't want to break the alliance
Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: You will know our stand soon, spoken to Uddhav-ji. We contested alone and have done well. We too didn't want to break the alliance."
17:33
Devendra Fadnavis says that the NCP's offer is "good gesture", but all options including Sena are open.
All eyes on the BJP parl board meeting.
All eyes on the BJP parl board meeting.
17:30 RSS wants alliance with Sena, not NCP
But the problem is that the RSS is not keen on BJP taking NCP support. This afternoon, RSS spokesperson MG Vaidya said that the RSS would rather that the BJP ally with Sena. However the BJP at the centre, doesn't seem to be in the mood to deal with Sena tantrums.
17:28 BJP may consider NCP's 'unconditional support' if Sena doesn't play ball
The NCP offer of unconditional outside support to the BJP will be reviewed at the Parliamentary Party meet at 6 pm. NDTV reports that the BJP may consider the NCP offer if the Sena does not play ball. Devendra Fadnavis has said that all options, including, Sena are open for discussion.
17:23 NOTA secures third place in Naxal-hit Gadchiroli
Nota moves to third place from second slot in Naxal-hit Gadchiroli. As many as 17,510 votes went in favour of NOTA at the end of the final 24th round of counting.
17:18
BJP is way ahead of all parties in Maharashtra, our decision to support them externally is in favor of people of Maharashtra: Majeed Memon, NCP
17:18 Sushma's sister loses
BJP's Vandana Sharma, sister of Sushma Swaraj, loses in Safidon by 1422 votes. An election of narrow margins indeed -- Congress MLA Jagbir Malik won the Gohana seat in Haryana by just two votes.
17:15 BJP hits century in Maha, first party to do so since 1990
Riding on the Narendra Modi wave, BJP has crossed the century mark in the Assembly polls in Maharashtra, a feat last time achieved by Congress in 1990.
Making deep inroads into Congress and NCP bastions, BJP is set to get over 120 seats this time in the 288-member House, a development that could jolt the Shiv Sena, which was its 'elder brother' in the saffron alliance that collapsed before the polls. In the 1990 Assembly polls, Congress had secured as many as 141 seats.
Since then, no national or regional party had come anywhere near the 100 mark.
Though the party has failed to reach the halfway mark of 144, BJP's record is impressive this time as it is getting nearly three times the seats it secured in 2009 Assembly polls when its tally was 47.
The BJP tally this time is more than the combined figure of 92 seats it had won along with the Shiv Sena in the last polls.
This indicated that the gamble played by the Prime Minister Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah has more than paid off. The two parties had together secured as many as 138 seats in 1995 (BJP-65, Shiv Sena-73) when they had formed the first non-Congress coalition government in the state.
Making deep inroads into Congress and NCP bastions, BJP is set to get over 120 seats this time in the 288-member House, a development that could jolt the Shiv Sena, which was its 'elder brother' in the saffron alliance that collapsed before the polls. In the 1990 Assembly polls, Congress had secured as many as 141 seats.
Since then, no national or regional party had come anywhere near the 100 mark.
Though the party has failed to reach the halfway mark of 144, BJP's record is impressive this time as it is getting nearly three times the seats it secured in 2009 Assembly polls when its tally was 47.
The BJP tally this time is more than the combined figure of 92 seats it had won along with the Shiv Sena in the last polls.
This indicated that the gamble played by the Prime Minister Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah has more than paid off. The two parties had together secured as many as 138 seats in 1995 (BJP-65, Shiv Sena-73) when they had formed the first non-Congress coalition government in the state.
16:55
@ShivAroor Name of @Dev_Fadnavis likely to be ratified for Maharashtra CM post at BJP Parl Board meeting at 6pm, reports @RahulKanwal.
16:54 Rahul: We will work hard to earn people's confidence
Rahul Gandhi concedes defeat (at long last). "We accept the verdict of the people. People have voted for change, after 15 years of our government in Maharashtra and 10 years in Haryana. I congratulate the BJP on their success. The Congress Party will work hard on the ground to once again earn the confidence of the people."
Rahul, folks, is meeting farmers in cyclone-hit Vizag, far away from the battleground Maharashtra or Haryana.
Rahul, folks, is meeting farmers in cyclone-hit Vizag, far away from the battleground Maharashtra or Haryana.
16:48 Capt Abhimanyu: I salute the people of Haryana
Captain Abhimanyu Singh, the man who will be king in Haryana, on the BJP win and a personal win says, "This is a victory for the people of Haryana and democracy, I salute the people of Haryana."
16:41 Drumming up a victory
BJP supporters in Delhi celebrate the party's victory in Haryana and Maharashtra assembly elections.
16:37 Amit Shah on alliances: We're in mood to celebrate, haven't given it thought
"We're now in the mood to celebrate, so no one has given it (alliances) serious thought yet," Amit Shah says.
16:36 Sonia: Accept election verdict with humility
And Sonia Gandhi reacts: Congress party accepts the election verdict delivered by the people of Maharashtra and Haryana with humility. Congress resolves to play a constructive and vigilant role.
16:28 Amit Shah: Going with allies is not at the cost of our party workers
Most of the questions at the presser are predictably on which party the BJP will go with to form government in Maharashtra.
Shah says over and over again that the BJP never broke the alliance with the Sena.
"We lost such an old alliance only because of three seats. But we never broke the alliance," he says. "We want to go with our allies, but it does not mean that it will be at the cost of sacrificing our workers.
"Wait a few hours, everything will be clear," Shah says on govt formation.
"BJP fought on 90 seats all by ourselves in Haryana and won. Even in Maharashtra we contesting alone. After the LS polls these were the polls in two large states and BJP won in both states. We never tried to break relations and alliance with Shiv Sena."
Shah says over and over again that the BJP never broke the alliance with the Sena.
"We lost such an old alliance only because of three seats. But we never broke the alliance," he says. "We want to go with our allies, but it does not mean that it will be at the cost of sacrificing our workers.
"Wait a few hours, everything will be clear," Shah says on govt formation.
"BJP fought on 90 seats all by ourselves in Haryana and won. Even in Maharashtra we contesting alone. After the LS polls these were the polls in two large states and BJP won in both states. We never tried to break relations and alliance with Shiv Sena."
16:16 Amit Shah: The Modi wave is a tsunami
BJP prez Amit Shah addresses a presser at the party HQ in Delhi. "Will prove our mettle to people of Haryana and Maharashtra, this is the victory of public and party workers," he says.
"Both the states have voted for Narendra Modi, it's a mandate for the Modi govt. It is our duty to form govt in both the states. We thank people for their trust in the party. It's a win for the people of Maharashtra and Haryana. We had never fought for over 118 seats in Maharashtra, this time we contested all 288 seats," says Shah.
"For detractors, I want to say that the Modi wave is still there, in fact it's a tsunami," he said.
"Both the states have voted for Narendra Modi, it's a mandate for the Modi govt. It is our duty to form govt in both the states. We thank people for their trust in the party. It's a win for the people of Maharashtra and Haryana. We had never fought for over 118 seats in Maharashtra, this time we contested all 288 seats," says Shah.
"For detractors, I want to say that the Modi wave is still there, in fact it's a tsunami," he said.
16:07 Where is everyone?
Empty chairs at the INLD office after the party's poor show in Haryana elections. INLD was down to the third slot with 18 seats, leads in 2, as compared to BJP's 45 seat-win, leads in 2 in Haryana.
16:00 Grand old man of Maha politics wins 11th term
Ganpatrao Deshmukh of the Peasants and Workers Party wins from Sangola constituency by over 25,000 votes. The 88-year-old Deshmukh is the only legislator to win assembly election for 11th term in Maharashtra and is the oldest candidate.
15:51 Abu Azmi wins from Mankhurd
Farhan Azmi @abufarhanazmi Abu Asim Azmi Wins Shivaji Nagar for the 2nd time.. Thank you Mankhurd Shivaji Nagar for this huge Victory!!
Abu Azmi is the man who said women who have been raped should be hanged as per the sharia.
Abu Azmi is the man who said women who have been raped should be hanged as per the sharia.
15:43 Rousing welcome for Amit Shah at HQ: We will have CMs in both states
BJP President Amit Shah arrives at BJP Headquarters in Delhi. He will address a presser at 4 pm. Rousing welcome for the man who almost managed a clear win for the party in Maharashtra. "We will have CMs in both the states," says Shah.
If the BJP does take support from the NCP, whatever happened to Narendra Modi's poll spiel where he called it the Naturally Corrupt Party?
If the BJP does take support from the NCP, whatever happened to Narendra Modi's poll spiel where he called it the Naturally Corrupt Party?
15:37 Gadkari is the winner
And a must-read column by MK Bhadrakumar on Rediff.com. "If there are two big winners emerging out of the Maharashtra state assembly election results, they are the Bharatiya Janata Party leader Nitin Gadkari and Shiv Sena boss Uddhav Thackeray. Gadkari's plea not to break the electoral alliance between the BJP and SS was ignored by the "party leadership' -- frankly, the Narendra Modi-Amit Shah duo -- and today he stands vindicated." Read
15:35 Emotional Pankaja Munde thanks supporters for win
Pankaja Munde greets her supporters with tears. No, she's won. It's just that the BJP candidate from Beed, was understandably emotional after retaining her father's seat. It's been just four months since her father Gopinath Munde passed away in a road accident that left not just the family, but the party in shock.
15:30 Fadnavis: Parl Board will decide who we want to go with
Devendra Fadnavis on the NCP offering outside support: "Our Parliamentary Board will decide who we want to go with and see what is in favor of Maharashtra. I can only say that BJP will form the govt and CM will be from BJP."
The BJP refuses to budge from the who-will-be-CM issue.
The BJP refuses to budge from the who-will-be-CM issue.
15:27 Capt Abhimanyu wins, Haryana's next CM?
Alright, so Capt Abhimanyu wins from the Narnaund assembly constituency. Victory margin over 6000 votes. That's the man who will probably be Haryana's next CM.
15:18 Chavan goes on a 'victory' rally in Karad
That's former Maharashtra CM Prithviraj Chavan on a victory rally at Karad. Ironic that Chavan should agree to the gulal and gulab after the Congress lost the state, nevermind the personal win.
15:14 NCP offers 'outside support' to BJP
NCP's Praful Patel says the party is willing to give outside support to BJP. "Maharashtra needs a stable government with link to the Centre. We will be giving outside support to the BJP. "
15:10 Haryana's CM probable Capt Abhimanyu leads
Captain Abhimanyu (BJP) leading by 6000 votes in 11th round of voting from constituency Narnaund (Haryana), likely to win. If he does, he is likely to be the state's new CM.
15:06 Chavan concedes defeat: We will introspect, I take full responsbility
Former Maharashtra CM Prithviraj Chavan says, "Cong's performance has been disappointing and not up to expectations; I take full responsibility of this defeat. We will introspect, will play the role of constructive opposition."
Cue for Rahul Gandhi who is meeting Hudhud affected farmers in Vizag.
Cue for Rahul Gandhi who is meeting Hudhud affected farmers in Vizag.
15:04
Kiran Bedi tweets: Indian voters now know what they want, barring some. They want quality of life, security, infrastructure, integrity and hope with credible efforts.
15:03 Advani: Want the BJP to form govt with Shiv Sena, can help make it happen
Senior leader LK Advani says he felt sad when the BJP's alliance with the Shiv Sena broke. "It would be nice if the coalition continues and forms the government in Maharashtra. If I can play any role in making that happen I would certainly do so," he says.
14:42 Tharoor congratulates, praises Prithviraj Chavan
Will this earn Shashi Tharoor another rap on the knuckles?
@ShashiTharoor tweets: Congratulations Prithviraj Chavan for proving that men of principle, integrity& English-language education can also win elections!
Congress MP Tharoor was sacked as Congress spox for praising PM Modi's Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan.
@ShashiTharoor tweets: Congratulations Prithviraj Chavan for proving that men of principle, integrity& English-language education can also win elections!
Congress MP Tharoor was sacked as Congress spox for praising PM Modi's Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan.
14:38 Shivaji's descendent wins from Satara
Dynasty wins in Satara. NCP's Shivendrasinh Bhosle wins by 47813 votes. The assembly segment witnessed a contest between the two cousins Udayanraje Bhosale (BJP) and Shivendrasinh Bhosale battling out against each other on development issues to get into the state assembly. Shivendra is contesting the elections in the backdrop of the demise of his father Abhaysinhraje Bhosale, who was the sitting MLA.
They are both descendents of Shivaji
They are both descendents of Shivaji
14:31
It's unreasonable and undemocratic on the part of the Shiv Sena to insist, if reports are right, that it must have CM's post in Maharashtra: Sudheendra Kulkarni.
14:29
Will the verdict now give the BJP the courage to go for elections in Delhi? Sincerely hope so, asks AAP's Yogendra Yadav.
14:28
Yogendra Yadav @AapYogendra Drubbing for parties led by Kanda and Venod Sharma is good news for Haryana. Entry of MIM in Maharashtra is bad news.
14:27
Riteish Deshmukh @Riteishd tweets: Big win in both seats- Latur (City) & Latur (Rural) asserts the leadership of @Amitisthename #ProudBhau.
Riteish's brother Amit contested from his father's constituencies.
Riteish's brother Amit contested from his father's constituencies.
14:23 No govt formation without Shiv Sena support: RPI(A)
BJP ally Republican Party of India (Athavale) today said no government in Maharashtra was possible without the support of Shiv Sena.
"It seems BJP is not getting a clear majority. Nothing can happen without Shiv Sena's support. Both BJP and Shiv Sena need to think about forming the government in the state," RPI (A) chief Ramdas Athawale said.
Expressing regret over the BJP and Shiv Sena's decision to contest the elections on their own, he said, "Had BJP and Shiv Sena fought this elections together, they would have got 225-230 seats together."
Athawale said a Modi-wave had definitely helped BJP to emerge as the single-largest party in the state.
"It seems BJP is not getting a clear majority. Nothing can happen without Shiv Sena's support. Both BJP and Shiv Sena need to think about forming the government in the state," RPI (A) chief Ramdas Athawale said.
Expressing regret over the BJP and Shiv Sena's decision to contest the elections on their own, he said, "Had BJP and Shiv Sena fought this elections together, they would have got 225-230 seats together."
Athawale said a Modi-wave had definitely helped BJP to emerge as the single-largest party in the state.
14:17
That's the tweet from the INC.
14:15 Cong spox Shobha Oza says Rahul is in Delhi (He's in Vizag)
And the question everyone is asking, "Where is Rahul Gandhi" on a day when the Congress has lost two states.
Party spokesperson Shobha Oza made a major boo boo in an interview to a TV channel today, when she said, he was in Delhi.
In fact, the INC had tweeted that the Congress VP was in Vizag to meet Hudhud victims.
Oza conceded that anti-incumbency is one of the major reasons for the defeat in the Assembly Polls.
She said Rahul Gandhi was their leader and they would bounce back.
Party spokesperson Shobha Oza made a major boo boo in an interview to a TV channel today, when she said, he was in Delhi.
In fact, the INC had tweeted that the Congress VP was in Vizag to meet Hudhud victims.
Oza conceded that anti-incumbency is one of the major reasons for the defeat in the Assembly Polls.
She said Rahul Gandhi was their leader and they would bounce back.
14:04 Big losses, wins
Bala Nandgaonkar of the MNS loses from Shivadi.
Sunil Prabhu of the Shiv Sena wins from Dindoshi in Maharashtra.
Sunil Prabhu of the Shiv Sena wins from Dindoshi in Maharashtra.
14:03
In Naxal hotbed Gadchiroli NOTA comes in at number 2. BJP's Dr Holi wins.
14:02 Khadse's 10-vote win
Eknath Khadse's victory margin in Muktainagar is 10 votes.
BJP wins Rohtak seat after more than 20 years.
In Maharashtra, NCP candidate Dilip Walse-Patil wins from Ambegaon constituency by 58154 votes.
BJP wins Rohtak seat after more than 20 years.
In Maharashtra, NCP candidate Dilip Walse-Patil wins from Ambegaon constituency by 58154 votes.
13:59 It's true BJP expected a complete majority: Gadkari
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari concedes, "It is true that we had expected a complete majority. But this is a
great victory too. I would like to thank the people of Maharashtra for
reposing faith in the BJP."
13:58
INLD's Dushyant Chautala loses from Uchana Kalan, Haryana. He is the son of Ajay Chautala. His mother, Naina Chautala wins from Dabwali.
13:58
AAP leader Manish Sisodia says there is no Modi wave in Maharashtra as BJP could not get clear majority.
13:57
Sunil Shinde of Shiv Sena defeats NCP's Sachin Ahir in Worli.
13:50
LOL. @somanathg tweets:
SS: Tera mujhse hain pehle ka naataa koi
BJP: Yuhin nahin DIL lubhata koi ;)
Both: Jane tu yaa Jane naa :D
SS: Tera mujhse hain pehle ka naataa koi
BJP: Yuhin nahin DIL lubhata koi ;)
Both: Jane tu yaa Jane naa :D
13:48 Congratulations and celebrations at BJP office
BJP MP Kirit Somaiya drums up a victory song at the party office in Nariman Point. Somaiya has asked the Shiv Sena to join the BJP to form the government in Maharashtra.
13:46 Prithviraj Chavan emerges most hated leader
The NCP today blamed former Chief Minister of Maharashtra Prithviraj Chavan for the poor showing by the party and the Congress in the Assembly polls.
NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik said Chavan's move to get even with his rivals within his party Congress and the Sharad Pawar-led outfit led to the debacle of the former allies, who ruled the State for 15 years before parting ways.
Malik, who won the Anushaktinagar Assembly seat in Mumbai with a margin of about 5,000 votes, said that Chavan employed "conspiratorial tactics" to malign NCP and his own rivals within Congress, which cost the two parties dear in the polls.
NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik said Chavan's move to get even with his rivals within his party Congress and the Sharad Pawar-led outfit led to the debacle of the former allies, who ruled the State for 15 years before parting ways.
Malik, who won the Anushaktinagar Assembly seat in Mumbai with a margin of about 5,000 votes, said that Chavan employed "conspiratorial tactics" to malign NCP and his own rivals within Congress, which cost the two parties dear in the polls.
13:43 Maha Cong prez Manikrao Thakre resigns
Maharashtra Congress president Manikrao Thakre resigns following party drubbing in Assembly polls.
13:37 BJP waits for Sena to talk to them, Sena does the same
Right now, BJP waits for Shiv Sena to approach them and the Shiv Sena waits for BJP to do the same.
Sena's Anil Desai, says that the Shiv Sena and the BJP are the top two. "If Uddhav-ji gets a proposal from BJP it shall be discussed."
Image: BJP supporters celebrate at their Nariman Point office in Mumbai. Pic: Hitesh Harisinghani/Rediff.
Sena's Anil Desai, says that the Shiv Sena and the BJP are the top two. "If Uddhav-ji gets a proposal from BJP it shall be discussed."
Image: BJP supporters celebrate at their Nariman Point office in Mumbai. Pic: Hitesh Harisinghani/Rediff.
13:27 The two votes that made this man win
And here's why every vote counts: Congress MLA MLA Jagbir Malik (pictured) retains the Gohana seat in Haryana by just two votes.
13:21 Kirit Somaiya to Sena: Join us, help us form govt
BJP's Kirit Somaiya to Shiv Sena: Join us, help us form government.
Piyush Goyal: "This is a huge victory, let the final result come out and then leaders will decide on who the CM will be."
So, who blink first?
Piyush Goyal: "This is a huge victory, let the final result come out and then leaders will decide on who the CM will be."
So, who blink first?
13:11 Devendra Fadnavis: Maharashtra CM will be from BJP
Broad smiles all around at Devendra Fadnavis's 2-minute presser.
Fadnavis who won the from the Nagpur south-west seat says despite the split with the Shiv Sena, the BJP has notched a triple-fold win in the state compared to its earlier figures.
More importantly, Fadnavis announced that the CM for Maharashtra will be from the BJP. "We will form the government, we will have a BJP chief minister, I can say this with assurance. Aage dekhiye hota hai kya. The BJP Parliamentary Board meet and decide on the course of action," he said.
He shared the stage with the state's election in-charge Om Mathur (pictured)
So, that put's an end to speculation that the BJP will tie-up with the Shiv Sena. The Sena has held on its demand that the CM will be from it's party.
Fadnavis who won the from the Nagpur south-west seat says despite the split with the Shiv Sena, the BJP has notched a triple-fold win in the state compared to its earlier figures.
More importantly, Fadnavis announced that the CM for Maharashtra will be from the BJP. "We will form the government, we will have a BJP chief minister, I can say this with assurance. Aage dekhiye hota hai kya. The BJP Parliamentary Board meet and decide on the course of action," he said.
He shared the stage with the state's election in-charge Om Mathur (pictured)
So, that put's an end to speculation that the BJP will tie-up with the Shiv Sena. The Sena has held on its demand that the CM will be from it's party.
12:59 RSS wants Sena-BJP combine
RSS spokesperson MG Vaidya's first statement since the results: BJP and Shiv Sena should come together and form the government. The Sangh has no role in BJP's victory. Modi-ji's popularity and BJP workers at the grassroots level are responsible.
12:51 Javdekar on coalition with Sena: It's for them to respond
BJP senior leader Prakash Javdekar speaking to NDTV says the BJP has entered the three figure club on its own (leads in 114 seats in Maharashtra at this hour).
Javdekar says that the BJP has emerged as the single largest party in both Haryana and Maharashtra. "The way the whole team has worked and the way the people have responded has worked. Voter choice, behaviour has changed -- they are voting for progress and honest leadership," he said.
On being asked about a coalition govt with the Shiv Sena, Javdekar said,
"It's not about our efforts to reach out to Shiv Sena. We had and have the highest resepct for Balasaheb (Bal Thackeray). If he was alive the alliance would not have broken. We still have goodwill for them. It is now for them to respond."
Javdekar says that the BJP has emerged as the single largest party in both Haryana and Maharashtra. "The way the whole team has worked and the way the people have responded has worked. Voter choice, behaviour has changed -- they are voting for progress and honest leadership," he said.
On being asked about a coalition govt with the Shiv Sena, Javdekar said,
"It's not about our efforts to reach out to Shiv Sena. We had and have the highest resepct for Balasaheb (Bal Thackeray). If he was alive the alliance would not have broken. We still have goodwill for them. It is now for them to respond."
12:45 Hooda accepts defeat
Haryana CM BS Hooda says, "We respect and accept the verdict of the people."
There is little else he can do.
Haryana leads so far: BJP 51, INLD 17, Cong 11, HJC 3, Others 8
There is little else he can do.
Haryana leads so far: BJP 51, INLD 17, Cong 11, HJC 3, Others 8
12:40 Narendra Modi, Amit Shah at BJP Parl meet in Delhi this evening
The BJP is playing it cool over who it will tie up with to form government in Maharashtra. The Parliamentary Board will meet in Delhi this evening and decide on government formation as it emerged the single-largest party in Maharashtra and looked set to capture power in Haryana.
All eyes are now on the meeting which will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief Amit Shah as to the strategy it will adopt in Maharashtra -- whether to go with its old ally Shiv Sena or seek support from others including NCP.
All eyes are now on the meeting which will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief Amit Shah as to the strategy it will adopt in Maharashtra -- whether to go with its old ally Shiv Sena or seek support from others including NCP.
12:34
BJP's Eknath Khadse wins from Muktainagar, Maharashtra.
12:32
Prithviraj Chavan's supporters celebrate his win at Karad.
12:30 Maha, Haryana celebrating 'Cong Mukt Diwas'
BJP's Shrikant Sharma says of the party results: It is a huge victory, Haryana and Maharashtra are celebrating 'Congress Mukti Diwas'.
12:22 Big winners: Fadnavis, Chavan, Pawar
State BJP president Devendra Fadnavis wins from Nagpur South-West by 30,500 votes. Likely to be the next Maharashtra CM.
Ajit Pawar wins from Baramati.
And former CM Prithviraj Chavan has also won from Karad, Maharashtra. Mega celebrations outside his home. Chavan, who created a furore with his interview to the Telegraph newspaper, had to apologise for his statements which the party perceives to be anti-Congress.
Congress's Rajiv Shukla says the central leadership is not responsible for the defeat of the party in both the states; he blames the state leadership.
Pic: Prithviraj Chavan at his constituency in Karad earlier this morning.
Ajit Pawar wins from Baramati.
And former CM Prithviraj Chavan has also won from Karad, Maharashtra. Mega celebrations outside his home. Chavan, who created a furore with his interview to the Telegraph newspaper, had to apologise for his statements which the party perceives to be anti-Congress.
Congress's Rajiv Shukla says the central leadership is not responsible for the defeat of the party in both the states; he blames the state leadership.
Pic: Prithviraj Chavan at his constituency in Karad earlier this morning.
12:16 BJP not keen on coalition with Sena
The Shiv Sena is also talking to the NCP. The BJP is believed to be wary of tying up with its erstwhile ally Shiv Sena again, since the party says it will stick to its demand of CM-from-Sena.
12:04 Mooh mitha time at BJP office in Mumbai
Celebrations outside the BJP office in Mumbai. Hung assembly likely, but the BJP leads over the rest.
The Shiv Sena has warned its erstwhile ally over ties with the NCP. The BJP central leadership is 'keen' on ties with the former Congress ally.
Right now, NCP chief Sharad Pawar is holding a strategy meet with Praful Patel, Supriya Sule, Ajit Pawar -- more of a family get-together really, since Sule is is daughter, while Ajit Pawar is his nephew.
Uddhav Thackeray tells the BJP, if you talk betterment, we will go along. BJP still undecided over alliance partner.
The Shiv Sena has warned its erstwhile ally over ties with the NCP. The BJP central leadership is 'keen' on ties with the former Congress ally.
Right now, NCP chief Sharad Pawar is holding a strategy meet with Praful Patel, Supriya Sule, Ajit Pawar -- more of a family get-together really, since Sule is is daughter, while Ajit Pawar is his nephew.
Uddhav Thackeray tells the BJP, if you talk betterment, we will go along. BJP still undecided over alliance partner.
11:52 In Mumbai, Abu Azmi leads, Subhash Desai trails
NCP's RR Patil is leading in Tasgaon Assembly constituency in Maharashtra.
In Mumbai, the Shiv Sena was leading in Sion Koliwada, Mahim, Worli, Shirdi. The BJP was ahead in Wadala, Malabar Hill, Mumbadevi, Colaba, Ghatkopar east and Ghatkopar west.
In Mankhurd, Samajwadi party leader Abu Azmi leads over his Congress rival.
Sena leader Subhash Desai was trailing in Goregaon at the end of third round. He polled 6,564 votes whereas his BJP rival Vidya Thakur polled 10,372 votes.
In Mumbai, the Shiv Sena was leading in Sion Koliwada, Mahim, Worli, Shirdi. The BJP was ahead in Wadala, Malabar Hill, Mumbadevi, Colaba, Ghatkopar east and Ghatkopar west.
In Mankhurd, Samajwadi party leader Abu Azmi leads over his Congress rival.
Sena leader Subhash Desai was trailing in Goregaon at the end of third round. He polled 6,564 votes whereas his BJP rival Vidya Thakur polled 10,372 votes.
11:46 Haryana CM BS Hooda wins
Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda wins, but will have to sit in the opposition. BJP heads for a clear win in the state -- leading in 49 seats so far of a total of 90.
11:43
BJP's Vinod Tawde wins from Borivali, Mumbai.
BJP senior leader Nirmala Sitharaman says, "Hard work of BJP in removing corrupt and inefficient. Govt has worked, a day to celebrate."
BJP senior leader Nirmala Sitharaman says, "Hard work of BJP in removing corrupt and inefficient. Govt has worked, a day to celebrate."
11:41 Who leads, who trails
11:36 The writing was on the wall for a reapproachment between Sena, BJP
A softening of the stance between the two erstwhile allies (BJP, Shiv Sena) was visible on Friday. The Shiv Sena talked of some possibility of reconciliation with the BJP in an editorial in the Saamna.
"Maharashtra needs stability and peace and for that some compromises may have to be reached. Let us see what numbers come out on Sunday."
The softening of the stance came after exit poll surveys in Maharashtra predict that the BJP will be the largest single party in the state assembly and will be in striking distance of establishing a complete majority in the house.
However, figures today indicate that the BJP is unlikely to get a majority in the state and will need an alliance partner to form government.
"Maharashtra needs stability and peace and for that some compromises may have to be reached. Let us see what numbers come out on Sunday."
The softening of the stance came after exit poll surveys in Maharashtra predict that the BJP will be the largest single party in the state assembly and will be in striking distance of establishing a complete majority in the house.
However, figures today indicate that the BJP is unlikely to get a majority in the state and will need an alliance partner to form government.
11:34 Amit Shah presser at 4 pm
BJP prez Amit Shah to address presser at 4 pm. Nitin Gadkari is likely to mediate with the Shiv Sena.
Read this for a sense of what Amit Shah did for Maharashtra: How the risk-taking Amit Shah went for broke in Maharashtra.
Read this for a sense of what Amit Shah did for Maharashtra: How the risk-taking Amit Shah went for broke in Maharashtra.
11:28 Hung assembly likely in Maha, BJP sends feelers to Sena, NCP
BJP's Nalin Kohli plays safe. Says that the question of government formation would depend on final numbers. "We will have to wait till 2 pm," he says. BJP senior leaders will meet in Delhi at 1 pm, while the BJP Parliamentary Board meets at 6 pm.
It's likely to be a hung assembly in Maharashtra. BJP has reached out to both NCP and the Shiv Sena, but the state BJP does not want an alliance with the NCP -- it's more of a directive from the Centre, which is 'keen' on a NCP meet.
NCP chief Sharad Pawar holds a a meet of senior leaders -- Supriya Sule, Praful Patel, Ajit Pawar (wins Baramati seat by 60,000 votes).
Sena on possibility of reunion with BJP says that Uddhav Thackeray will take decision in Maharashtra's best interest.
It's likely to be a hung assembly in Maharashtra. BJP has reached out to both NCP and the Shiv Sena, but the state BJP does not want an alliance with the NCP -- it's more of a directive from the Centre, which is 'keen' on a NCP meet.
NCP chief Sharad Pawar holds a a meet of senior leaders -- Supriya Sule, Praful Patel, Ajit Pawar (wins Baramati seat by 60,000 votes).
Sena on possibility of reunion with BJP says that Uddhav Thackeray will take decision in Maharashtra's best interest.
11:18
Former chief minister of Maharashtra Narayan Rane has lost the assembly poll from Kudal.
11:17
Shiv Sena's Anil Sahebrao Kadam wins from Niphad in Nashik district of Maharashtra.
11:16 Chhagan Bhujbal wins from Yevla
NCP's Chhagan Bhujbal wins from Yevla, Cong's Radhakrishna V Patil wins from Shirdi.
Yevla was in the news recently after a woman was set afire for allegedly not voting for Chhagan Bhujbal on October 15. She had voted for the Shiv Sena.
Yevla was in the news recently after a woman was set afire for allegedly not voting for Chhagan Bhujbal on October 15. She had voted for the Shiv Sena.
11:10 Maharashtra leads
11:10
Kiran Bedi, a staunch BJP/Narendra Modi supporter tweets: Haryana becomes Congress MUKT, land scams MUKT and VADRAS MUKT! WOW three in one!
11:09 Kanda: BJP will not be able to form govt on its own
Gopal Kanda, Haryana Lokhit Party: People are voting against the Cong. BJP will not be able to form govt on its own, will have to take support.
On polling day, stones were pelted on the vehicle of HLP chief Gopal Kanda when he allegedly slapped INLD Sirsa candidate ML Singla's brother, Om Prakash Singla, at Gaushala Mohalla in Sirsa town.
Another feather in Kanda's cap is that he is accused of abetting the suicide of airhostess Geetika Sharma.
On polling day, stones were pelted on the vehicle of HLP chief Gopal Kanda when he allegedly slapped INLD Sirsa candidate ML Singla's brother, Om Prakash Singla, at Gaushala Mohalla in Sirsa town.
Another feather in Kanda's cap is that he is accused of abetting the suicide of airhostess Geetika Sharma.
11:04 And they also ran...
INLD Secretary General and Chautala's younger son Abhay Chautala is trailing in his traditional bastion Ellenabad from Pawan Beniwal of BJP.
MP Dushyanat Chautala is trailing behind BJP leader Birender Singh's wife Prem Lata (BJP) in Uchana Kalan.
Chautala's elder son Ajay Singh, who too is in jail after his conviction in teachers recruitment scandal, has put his bet on his wife Naina from Dabwali. However, Naina is way behind Kamalvir Singh (Cong) and Dev Kumar (BJP).
MP Dushyanat Chautala is trailing behind BJP leader Birender Singh's wife Prem Lata (BJP) in Uchana Kalan.
Chautala's elder son Ajay Singh, who too is in jail after his conviction in teachers recruitment scandal, has put his bet on his wife Naina from Dabwali. However, Naina is way behind Kamalvir Singh (Cong) and Dev Kumar (BJP).
11:02
Reality check yet to be done. Manikrao Thakre, Congress says, "These are just early trends, hopeful of getting above 50 seats, but we still are not satisfied."
10:59
Naresh Agarwal, SP on early trends, "This is not BJP's success, but a result of Congress's corruption and wrong policies.
10:57
BJP leader Siddharth Nath Singh tells Headlines Today he looks to younger leaders, meaning he would prefer Uddhav Thackeray to Sharad Pawar.
10:57
Haryana BJP legislature party leader and party candidate from Ambala Cantt Anil Vij defeats Nirmal Singh of Congress by a margin of 15,462 votes.
10:55 BJP set to form govt in Haryana
So, the BJP today appeared to be emerging as the single largest party in Maharashtra and looked like capturing power in Haryana unseating the Congress in both the states as counting of votes in the assembly elections progressed.
In keeping with the dominance the BJP displayed in both the states in the Lok Sabha elections early this year, latest trends in Maharashtra placed BJP as the top most party with leads in about 115 seats, over 30 seats short of the half-way mark of 145 seats in the 288-member assembly.
In keeping with the dominance the BJP displayed in both the states in the Lok Sabha elections early this year, latest trends in Maharashtra placed BJP as the top most party with leads in about 115 seats, over 30 seats short of the half-way mark of 145 seats in the 288-member assembly.
10:43
Rana Ayyub @RanaAyyub Senior Sena leader asks me "forget our performance, where is the tsunami which was to drown us"
Maharashtra figures: BJP: 109, Shiv Sena: 61, Congress: 50
Haryana figures: BJP 44, INLD 21, Congress 15
Maharashtra figures: BJP: 109, Shiv Sena: 61, Congress: 50
Haryana figures: BJP 44, INLD 21, Congress 15
10:40 Devendra Fadnavis meets Uddhav Thackeray
BJP leaders Devendra Fadnavis and Om Mathur may meet Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, say sources.
10:36
And another winner: Shiv Sena's Anil Sahebrao Kadam wins from Niphad in Nashik district of Maharashtra. Anil Vij wins from Ambala Cantt.
10:34 BJP's Madhuri Misal Satish from Pune -- first winner in Maha
BJP's Madhuri Misal Satish from the Parvati constiuency, Pune, is the first declared winner in Maharashtra.
10:30
On Twitter: The star campaigner for BJP was not NaMo but RaGa. Rahul Gandhi did not hold rallies in Maharashtra. That's why BJP is struggling there right?
Pic: Grim faces outside the Congress office in Delhi and a poster of the the Congress's brahmastra -- Priyanka Gandhi. Sigh.
Pic: Grim faces outside the Congress office in Delhi and a poster of the the Congress's brahmastra -- Priyanka Gandhi. Sigh.
10:24
Understatement of the day: Rajeev Shukla, Congress says, "Early trends have made it clear that results are not on the lines we expected."
10:20 Former Maha CM Prithviraj Chavan trails
Former Maharashtra chief minister Prithviraj Chavan of the Congress is now trailing in the Karad Assembly constituency.
"We have to respect the figures," Congress spox Abhishek Singhvi says.
"We have to respect the figures," Congress spox Abhishek Singhvi says.
10:13 Sena-NCP govt with Cong support? Wait for results, says Praful
Sheela Bhatt/Rediff.com reports from New Delhi: The final results from the Maharashtra assembly election are just an hour away but already tantalising possibilities are being seen by the non-Bharatiya Janata Party outfits from the fractured mandate.
Due to the tremendous response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's public rallies and anti-incumbency against the government of Congress-Nationalist Congress Party, it was believed strongly that the BJP will form the government on its own by getting a simple majority in the 288-seat assembly.
But now it seems that the BJP will be surely the single largest party but may not get a majority on its own.
Praful Patel, senior NCP leader, told Rediff.com, I have been predicting that the BJP will never get a majority of its own. It seems clear the NCP will be crucial in the formation of the new government in Maharashtra.
Asked if there was a possibility of an NCP-Shiv Sena government with the Congress supporting it from the outside, Patel evaded the question saying, Within one hour we will know the results. Let us wait and see how things move.
Due to the tremendous response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's public rallies and anti-incumbency against the government of Congress-Nationalist Congress Party, it was believed strongly that the BJP will form the government on its own by getting a simple majority in the 288-seat assembly.
But now it seems that the BJP will be surely the single largest party but may not get a majority on its own.
Praful Patel, senior NCP leader, told Rediff.com, I have been predicting that the BJP will never get a majority of its own. It seems clear the NCP will be crucial in the formation of the new government in Maharashtra.
Asked if there was a possibility of an NCP-Shiv Sena government with the Congress supporting it from the outside, Patel evaded the question saying, Within one hour we will know the results. Let us wait and see how things move.
10:10 What about these firecrackers, Dr Harsh Vardhan?
And so it begins, "Priyanka lao, desh bchao" slogans at the Congress HQ in Delhi.
Pic: At the BJP HQ, firecrackers celebrate the 111 lead in Maharashtra and 49 in Haryana. So much for union health minister Dr Harsh Vardhan's plea against noisy firecrackers.
Pic: At the BJP HQ, firecrackers celebrate the 111 lead in Maharashtra and 49 in Haryana. So much for union health minister Dr Harsh Vardhan's plea against noisy firecrackers.
10:06
On Twitter: Rahul Gandhi is a great asset for the BJP.
Remember, Rahul Gandhi's speech on October 8, where he committed a faux pas while referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as "opposition leader".
Rahul was trending on Twitter for the wrong reasons. Invariably.
Remember, Rahul Gandhi's speech on October 8, where he committed a faux pas while referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as "opposition leader".
Rahul was trending on Twitter for the wrong reasons. Invariably.
09:57 What's the scene in Maharashtra?
Former Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan is leading in south Karad in western Maharashtra, over his nearest rival Vilaskaka Undalkar.
Former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar is leading in Baramati.
Former Home Minister R R Patil is trailing in Tasgaon seat against BJP nominee Ajit Ghorpade.
Former Chief Minister Narayan Rane is trailing behind Vaibhav Naik of Shiv Sena in Kudal seat of coastal Konkan.
State BJP core committee member Pankaja Munde, the daughter of late Gopinath Munde, is leading in Parli Assembly constituency over estranged cousin Dhananjay Munde of NCP.
Amit Satam of BJP is leading over Ashok Bhau Jadhav of Congress in Mumbai's Andheri West seat.
In Nashik-Central, BJP candidate Devyani Pharande is leading over sitting MNS MLA Vasant Gite.
In Igatpuri constituency, sitting Congress MLA Nirmala Gavit is trailing behind NCP's Hiraman Khoskar.
In Nandgaon, sitting MLA Pankaj Bhujbal (NCP) is also trailing, as per the latest trends.
Rahul Thakre, son of MPCC chief Manikrao Thakre, is trailing in his constituency in Yavatmal district.
Former President Pratibha Patil's son Rajendra alias Raosaheb Shekhawat (Congress) is trailing in Amravati.
Former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar is leading in Baramati.
Former Home Minister R R Patil is trailing in Tasgaon seat against BJP nominee Ajit Ghorpade.
Former Chief Minister Narayan Rane is trailing behind Vaibhav Naik of Shiv Sena in Kudal seat of coastal Konkan.
State BJP core committee member Pankaja Munde, the daughter of late Gopinath Munde, is leading in Parli Assembly constituency over estranged cousin Dhananjay Munde of NCP.
Amit Satam of BJP is leading over Ashok Bhau Jadhav of Congress in Mumbai's Andheri West seat.
In Nashik-Central, BJP candidate Devyani Pharande is leading over sitting MNS MLA Vasant Gite.
In Igatpuri constituency, sitting Congress MLA Nirmala Gavit is trailing behind NCP's Hiraman Khoskar.
In Nandgaon, sitting MLA Pankaj Bhujbal (NCP) is also trailing, as per the latest trends.
Rahul Thakre, son of MPCC chief Manikrao Thakre, is trailing in his constituency in Yavatmal district.
Former President Pratibha Patil's son Rajendra alias Raosaheb Shekhawat (Congress) is trailing in Amravati.
09:53 'Some degree of anti-incumbency in Maha, Haryana: Cong
There might be some degree of anti-incumbency but based on economic and social factors both states have been at top: Sanjay Jha, Congress. The top 5 states in terms of state GDP are Maharashtra, UP, AP, TN and Gujarat.
Pic: Ballot boxes lined up for opening earlier this morning.
Pic: Ballot boxes lined up for opening earlier this morning.
09:47 Leads so far
Maharashtra: BJP: 116, SS: 58, Cong: 51, NCP: 52, MNS: 4 Others: 17
Haryana: BJP: 48 INLD: 19, Cong: 19
Haryana: BJP: 48 INLD: 19, Cong: 19
09:44
Majid Memon, NCP: This is all a one-man show, they (BJP) had no leader in Maharashtra, let's wait and see final results. NCP is expected to further improve its position,will go above 50 after 2 pm.
09:39 Devendra Fadnavis: Regrets of split with Sena will always be there
Devendra Fadnavis speaking to NDTV as leads indicate a BJP majority in both Maharashtra and Haryana.
"Trends are good, we are pleased with the results so far. I think we will get a majority in Maharashtra.
"I think the faith which Narendra Modi created has worked. Ultimately, it is Modi-ji's charisma which has worked. BJP president Amit Shah, also worked for the state. Modi created the atmosphere that the BJP can do it for the people.
On whether he can be congratulated as Maharashtra's next CM:
"No, I don't think so, don't congratulate me as CM. I am still the BJP state unit president. It is for the Parliamentary Board to decide. We will meet today or tomorrow. Right now I'm more concerned about the results. Whatever the party decides, I will obey.
Problems that ail Maharashtra
"No governance in Maharashtra, paralysis in policy, decision, implementation. Zero tolerance for corruption will be a big agenda for us."
On the break-up with the Shiv Sena
"We shared an alliance of ideology. Regrets will always be there. The Shiv Sena is not our political opponent. They will always be our friend. Don't want to speculate on what will happen. The Congress, NCP is our political opponent."
"Trends are good, we are pleased with the results so far. I think we will get a majority in Maharashtra.
"I think the faith which Narendra Modi created has worked. Ultimately, it is Modi-ji's charisma which has worked. BJP president Amit Shah, also worked for the state. Modi created the atmosphere that the BJP can do it for the people.
On whether he can be congratulated as Maharashtra's next CM:
"No, I don't think so, don't congratulate me as CM. I am still the BJP state unit president. It is for the Parliamentary Board to decide. We will meet today or tomorrow. Right now I'm more concerned about the results. Whatever the party decides, I will obey.
Problems that ail Maharashtra
"No governance in Maharashtra, paralysis in policy, decision, implementation. Zero tolerance for corruption will be a big agenda for us."
On the break-up with the Shiv Sena
"We shared an alliance of ideology. Regrets will always be there. The Shiv Sena is not our political opponent. They will always be our friend. Don't want to speculate on what will happen. The Congress, NCP is our political opponent."
09:33
Narendra Modi critic-turned-fan, MJ Akbar, on the BJP's early trends: Narendra Modi Ji ke jaadu par jinhe vishwas nahin tha, ab to ho gya na? MJ Akbar, BJP on early trends.
09:27 Fadnavis may face opposition from these three
Fadnavis may be the de facto choice of the BJP to be the next CM of Maharashtra if indeed the party wins in the state, but he will face serious competition in the form of senior Union transport minister Nitin Gadkari, leaders of Opposition in the legislature Eknath Khadse and Vinod Tawde.
09:24 My heart wants my husband to be CM: Devendra Fadnavis's wife
Amrita Fadnavis, the wife of Devendra Fadnavis, the man, who may just be Maharashtra's next CM, tells NDTV that it is a "matter of heart", or rather, "her heart" wants that her husband be CM. She says he is not modest, he is just being true when asked why he hasn't been vying for the CM's post. If the party decides he should be CM, he will be happy to be CM, she says. "He will definitely accept the challenge, but he is not contesting for it," she says.
Pic: The Fadnavis's after polling day on October 15.
Devendra Fadnavis leads from Nagpur (South West)
Pic: The Fadnavis's after polling day on October 15.
Devendra Fadnavis leads from Nagpur (South West)
09:18 What's the scene in Haryana?
In Haryana:
Seema Trikha of BJP leading over Haryana Minister Mahender Pratap (Cong) by 4,573 votes from Badhkal seat.
Balkaur Singh of Shiromani Akali Dal (B) leading over Shishpal of Congress by a margin of 752 votes from Kalanwali (SC) seat.
Haryana Minister Geeta Bhukka of Congress leading over Sadhu Ram (INLD) by 2501 votes from Jhajjar.
Pardeep Chaudhar of INLD was leading over Latika Sharma (BJP) by 692 votes from Kalka.
Seema Trikha of BJP leading over Haryana Minister Mahender Pratap (Cong) by 4,573 votes from Badhkal seat.
Balkaur Singh of Shiromani Akali Dal (B) leading over Shishpal of Congress by a margin of 752 votes from Kalanwali (SC) seat.
Haryana Minister Geeta Bhukka of Congress leading over Sadhu Ram (INLD) by 2501 votes from Jhajjar.
Pardeep Chaudhar of INLD was leading over Latika Sharma (BJP) by 692 votes from Kalka.
09:16 Cong's Amit Deshmukh leads in Latur
Meanwhile, Cong's Amit Deshmukh (the late Vilasrao Deshmukh's son) leads
from his father's constituency in Latur city, Maharashtra.
09:13 'Confident of 60+ in Haryana'
Kailash Vijayvargiya, BJP's Haryana incharge: Confident our target of 60+ will be achieved, we are proud that people have imposed their faith in us.
BJP leads with 40 seats in Haryana out of a total of 90.
BJP leads with 40 seats in Haryana out of a total of 90.
09:10
Prakash Javadekar on early trends: Modi symbolizes good governance and honest leadership, that's why people have imposed faith in the party.
09:08 'Narendra in Delhi, Devendra in Mumbai'.
And the slogan that could just ring true for Maharashtra: BJP banners say: 'Narendra in Delhi, Devendra in Mumbai'.
First reactions from BJP's Shahnawaz Hussain on early trends: Haryana & Maharashtra have given more than we expected. It's a huge victory.
(BJP leads: Maharashtra: 121, Haryana: 44)
First reactions from BJP's Shahnawaz Hussain on early trends: Haryana & Maharashtra have given more than we expected. It's a huge victory.
(BJP leads: Maharashtra: 121, Haryana: 44)
08:58
The Election Commission has deputed 135 general observers, 112 expenditure, five police and 18 awareness observers in Maharashtra.
08:57
Figures in Maharashtra:
-- Over 35,000 election staff are on duty.
-- A total of 4,119 candidates, including 276 women, are in the poll ring.
-- Over 35,000 election staff are on duty.
-- A total of 4,119 candidates, including 276 women, are in the poll ring.
08:55 Trends so far...
Maharashtra: BJP: 102, SS: 51, Cong: 44, NCP: 30, MNS: 3
Haryana: BJP: 45, INLD: 17, Cong: 22. Cong, INLD neck and neck in Maharashtra.
First reactions from BJP: Maharashtra has rejected coalition politics.
Haryana: BJP: 45, INLD: 17, Cong: 22. Cong, INLD neck and neck in Maharashtra.
First reactions from BJP: Maharashtra has rejected coalition politics.
08:50 Pankaja Munde leads
Pankaja Munde leading from Pali, Beed. State BJP president Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday said that Munde had been misquoted. "She herself called me up to explain that only half her statements were aired or printed," Fadnavis said. "She was upset over the statements attributed to her that appeared in the media."
Munde had said that people wanted her to be Maharashtra CM to keep her father's dream alive.
Munde had said that people wanted her to be Maharashtra CM to keep her father's dream alive.
08:44 Key candidates in Maharashtra
The vote count for October 15 balloting, which started at 8 am at 269 locations across the state, will decide the electoral fate of several political bigwigs, including former Chief Ministers Prithviraj Chavan, Narayan Rane (both Congress), ex-Ministers Ajit Pawar and Chhagan Bhujbal (both NCP), Devendra Fadnavis, Eknath Khadse and Vinod Tawde (BJP).
08:42 Will Sena play second fiddle to BJP in Maharashtra?
This may be the most eagerly-awaited poll result in the history of Maharashtra, where the two main alliances crumbled ahead of the election, adding a tinge of uncertainty in a state known till now for its largely bipolar polity.
Modi was the star campaigner for BJP, which is vying for power on its steam in the state for the first time in 25 years.
All these years, the party had played second fiddle to Shiv Sena, which led the saffron alliance that came apart late last month over disagreement on sharing Assembly seats.
Modi was the star campaigner for BJP, which is vying for power on its steam in the state for the first time in 25 years.
All these years, the party had played second fiddle to Shiv Sena, which led the saffron alliance that came apart late last month over disagreement on sharing Assembly seats.
08:38 Trends so far
Maharashtra. BJP: 32, Shiv Sena: 11, Congress: 10, NCP: 3, Others: 1 for the 288 seats.
Haryana: BJP: 16, NLD: 4, Cong: 3, Others: 2 for 90 seats.
Haryana: BJP: 16, NLD: 4, Cong: 3, Others: 2 for 90 seats.
08:36 BJP's Devendra Fadnavis leads, Cong's Narayan Rane trails
BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis, who stood from Nagpur, is leading, Narayan Rane trailing.
Fadnavis, is, as you know, the front-runner to become the first BJP CM of Maharashtra. He has however insisted that the CM's name will be finalized by the party's parliamentary board.
Fadnavis, is, as you know, the front-runner to become the first BJP CM of Maharashtra. He has however insisted that the CM's name will be finalized by the party's parliamentary board.
08:25 Will Modi magic win Maha, Haryana for BJP?
PM Narendra Modi addressed 38 rallies ahead of the Maharashtra and Haryana polls. The Gandhis -- Rahul and Sonia -- together notched 18.
NDTV reports that clear trends for both Haryana and Maharashtra will be available by 10:30 am at the very latest.
NDTV reports that clear trends for both Haryana and Maharashtra will be available by 10:30 am at the very latest.
08:14
NCP with 1 has opened its account in Maharashtra.
08:13 Early leads for BJP in Maharashtra, Haryana
Early leads coming in:
Maharashtra: BJP+ 5
NCP: 1
Haryana: BJP 1
Maharashtra: BJP+ 5
NCP: 1
Haryana: BJP 1
08:11 Fadnavis: Nobody in race for CM
Will this man be Maharashtra's new CM? Devendra Fadnavis (44) is the BJP's chief ministerial choice in Maharashtra, though the man himself, unlike Gopinath Munde's daughter, Pankaja, has not thrown his hat in the ring.
In a country ruled by caste, the decision to put Fadnavis, a Brahmin, in the ring, signals the party's change from deciding candidates from the all-powerful Maratha community.
Fadnavis, who is also the president of the Maharashtra unit of the BJP, has said that there are no frontrunners for the race to be CM.
In a country ruled by caste, the decision to put Fadnavis, a Brahmin, in the ring, signals the party's change from deciding candidates from the all-powerful Maratha community.
Fadnavis, who is also the president of the Maharashtra unit of the BJP, has said that there are no frontrunners for the race to be CM.
08:01 Will Haryana hold on to Hooda?
Haryana recorded its highest-ever turnout of 76.54 per cent while Maharashtra recorded 63.13 per cent polling. Normally, a high voter turnout indicates an anti-incumbency vote. If Hooda wins, it will be his third term.
Exit polls have projected that the BJP will emerge as the largest party in both Maharashtra and Haryana stopping short of majority.
Counting will be held across 288 counting centres at 269 locations in Maharashtra. Trends are expected to be available around noon and final results will begin pouring in around 3 pm.
Exit polls have projected that the BJP will emerge as the largest party in both Maharashtra and Haryana stopping short of majority.
Counting will be held across 288 counting centres at 269 locations in Maharashtra. Trends are expected to be available around noon and final results will begin pouring in around 3 pm.
07:52 Key candidates to look out for in Haryana
Key candidates to look out for in Haryana
Congress
Bhupinder Singh Hooda - Garhi Sampla - Kiloi
Kuldeep Sharma - Gannaur
Savitri Jindal - Hisar
Randeep Singh Surjewala - Kaithal
Sampath Singh - Nalwa
Captain Ajay Yadav - Rewari
Kiran Chaudhury - Tosham
Geeta Bhukkal - Jhajjar
INLD
Abhay Singh Chautala - Ellenabad
Naina Singh Chautala - Dabawali
Dushyant Singh Chautala - Uchana Kalan
Ashok Arora - Thanesar
BJP
Capt Abhimanyu - Narnaund
Ram Bilas Sharma - Mahendragarh
Vandana Sharma - Safidon
Others
Kudip Bishnoi - Adampur - HJC
Chander Mohan - Nalwa - HJC
Renuka Bishnoi - Hansi - HJC
Gopal Kanda - Sirsa - HLP
Venod Sharma - Ambala City - HJC
Arvind Sharma - Yamunanagar and Rai - BSP
07:51 Key candidates to look out for in Maharashtra
Key candidates to look out for in Maharashtra:
Bharatiya Janata Party
Pankaja Munde: Parli
Devendra Fadnavis: Nagpur South West
Shiv Sena
Subhash Desai: Goregaon
Congress
Prithviraj Chavan: South Karad
Praniti Shinde: Solapur City Central
Narayan Rane: Kudal
Nitesh Rane: Kankavali
Nationalist Congress Party
Ajit Pawar: Baramati
Chhagan Bhujbal: Yeola
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena
Bala Nandgaonkar: Sewri
07:49 Will it be super Sunday for the BJP in Maharashtra?
In Maharashtra, exit polls suggest that the BJP is way ahead of its rivals.
The party which contested elections along with the Shiv Sena in 2009 got 46 out of 288 seats. This time, the BJP could, polls predict, fall just short of the magic figure of 144.
The end of Shiv Sena-BJP and Congress-NCP ties has resulted in four-legged battle in Maharashtra.
While the Congress and NCP are braving anti-incumbency factor, former allies Shiv Sena and BJP contesting alone can make a dent in their respective poll prospects.
07:40 Can Congress win a third term in Haryana?
In Haryana, the fate of the Bhupinder Singh Hooda-led Congress government, which is aiming at a third successive term, and BJP, which is eyeing to form a government on its own, would be known today.
The state had created history by clocking an all-time high polling of about 76.54 per cent, surpassing maximum of 72.65 per cent in 1967 in the high-stakes battle among top contenders Congress, BJP and INLD in a multi-cornered contest.
The fate of 1351 candidates, including 116 women - the highest number since the formation of the state in 1966, was sealed during the single day polling.
Unlike in the recent past, when the fight was mainly between Congress and Indian National Lok Dal, a number of new players have thrown their hats in the ring this time.
The ruling Congress is eyeing a win for the third time in a row, mainly banking on the development card while main opposition INLD is seeking to return to power after a decade of hiatus, banking on the charisma of its President Om Prakash Chautala and consolidation of the Jat vote.
07:29 Counting of votes in Maharashtra and Haryana set to begin
In a few hours from now, the fate of 288 Maharashtra assembly seats and 90 constituencies in Haryana will be known.
Exit polls have projected that the BJP will emerge as the largest party in both Maharashtra and Haryana stopping short of majority.
Counting will be held across 288 counting centres at 269 locations in Maharashtra. Trends are expected to be available around noon and final results will begin pouring in around 3 pm.
07:27
Good morning....
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