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Mon, 18 December 2017
'100% match in random vote count on EVMs and paper trail slips'
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23:11 Exit polls failed to project victory margin for BJP in Gujarat
Almost all the exit polls werespot on in predicting Bharatiya Janata Party's victory in Gujarat but a majority of them were off the mark when it came to forecasting the victory margin for the saffron party.
Most of the exit polls had predicted over 110 seats for the party but it could only manage 99 seats in the 182-member assembly in Gujarat, the home state of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah.
In Himachal too, predictions by some exit polls that BJP will get in excess of 50 seats in the 68-member assembly were not accurate.
According to the final results by the Election Commission (EC), the BJP won 99 seats, securing a majority in the 182-member Gujarat assembly.
The Congress won 77 seats.
Almost all exit polls by various media houses had predicted over 110 seats for the BJP in Gujarat where the party has been ensconced in power for close to two decades now.
In the 2012 assembly polls, the BJP had won 115 seats, the Congress 61 and others six.
An exit poll by Today's Chanakya had given BJP 135 seats in Gujarat and predicted a measly 47 for the Congress, 14 less than the opposition party had in the current assembly.
However, the exit poll was correct in predicting a voteshare of 49 per cent for the BJP as according to the EC, the BJP's vote share stood at 49.1 per cent. -- PTI
Most of the exit polls had predicted over 110 seats for the party but it could only manage 99 seats in the 182-member assembly in Gujarat, the home state of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah.
In Himachal too, predictions by some exit polls that BJP will get in excess of 50 seats in the 68-member assembly were not accurate.
According to the final results by the Election Commission (EC), the BJP won 99 seats, securing a majority in the 182-member Gujarat assembly.
The Congress won 77 seats.
Almost all exit polls by various media houses had predicted over 110 seats for the BJP in Gujarat where the party has been ensconced in power for close to two decades now.
In the 2012 assembly polls, the BJP had won 115 seats, the Congress 61 and others six.
An exit poll by Today's Chanakya had given BJP 135 seats in Gujarat and predicted a measly 47 for the Congress, 14 less than the opposition party had in the current assembly.
However, the exit poll was correct in predicting a voteshare of 49 per cent for the BJP as according to the EC, the BJP's vote share stood at 49.1 per cent. -- PTI
22:53 Will Smith in Mumbai for his Netflix show's premiere
Actor Will Smith poses with his costars from his new Netflix show Bright.
Smith was in Mumbai to premiere his new show.
With Smith are his costars Joel Edgerton and Noomi Rapace and show's director David Ayer at Phoenix Mall in Mumbai.
Photograph: Hitesh Harisinghani/Rediff.com
Smith was in Mumbai to premiere his new show.
With Smith are his costars Joel Edgerton and Noomi Rapace and show's director David Ayer at Phoenix Mall in Mumbai.
Photograph: Hitesh Harisinghani/Rediff.com
22:11 100% match in random vote count on EVMs and paper trail slips: EC official
There was a '100 per cent match' in the random vote count on electronic voting machines and paper trail slips carried out by the Election Commission in 182 Gujarat polling stations today, a senior official said.
The EC had said it would conduct random vote counts on EVMs and VVPAT slips in one polling station in each of the 182 assembly constituencies.
"There was a 100 per cent match in the results of the EVM and the slips produced by the paper trail machines," the official of the election machinery said.
The polling stations were decided through a draw of lots in which the candidates or their agents were also present.
The EC had decided to match the tally in select polling stations amid allegations that the EVMs were compromised to help the Bharatiya Janata Party.
On December 15, the Supreme Court had refused to entertain a plea of the Gujarat Congress seeking counting of at least 20 per cent of the paper trail slips manually along with votes cast in the EVMs in each constituency of the state.
It had said that the court cannot interfere unless the Election Commission of India's decision to restrict the EVM- VVPAT paper trail to one booth per constituency is proved 'arbitrary', 'illegal' or 'mala fide'. -- PTI
The EC had said it would conduct random vote counts on EVMs and VVPAT slips in one polling station in each of the 182 assembly constituencies.
"There was a 100 per cent match in the results of the EVM and the slips produced by the paper trail machines," the official of the election machinery said.
The polling stations were decided through a draw of lots in which the candidates or their agents were also present.
The EC had decided to match the tally in select polling stations amid allegations that the EVMs were compromised to help the Bharatiya Janata Party.
On December 15, the Supreme Court had refused to entertain a plea of the Gujarat Congress seeking counting of at least 20 per cent of the paper trail slips manually along with votes cast in the EVMs in each constituency of the state.
It had said that the court cannot interfere unless the Election Commission of India's decision to restrict the EVM- VVPAT paper trail to one booth per constituency is proved 'arbitrary', 'illegal' or 'mala fide'. -- PTI
21:47 Congress' performance in Gujarat morale boosting: Chidambaram
The Congress has given a morale boosting performance in Gujarat and the battle will now be for five states in 2018, senior party leader P Chidambaram said today.
In a series of tweets, Chidambaram congratulated the Bharatiya Janata Party for winning the assembly elections in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh but said the Congress has returned a morale boosting performance in Gujarat under Rahul Gandhi.
"The battle is now joined for five states in 2018," he said.
Assembly elections are due in Karnataka, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura and Mizoram in 2018.
The former finance and home minister said there is an electoral victory and there is a political victory in the results of the two states.
"Need I say who is the political victor in Gujarat. What a victory! In Gujarat, the winner limped across the finish line with a young sprinter close on his heels," he tweeted.
The BJP won the Gujarat Assembly polls for a record sixth straight victory today, and evicted the Congress in Himachal Pradesh. -- PTI
In a series of tweets, Chidambaram congratulated the Bharatiya Janata Party for winning the assembly elections in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh but said the Congress has returned a morale boosting performance in Gujarat under Rahul Gandhi.
"The battle is now joined for five states in 2018," he said.
Assembly elections are due in Karnataka, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura and Mizoram in 2018.
The former finance and home minister said there is an electoral victory and there is a political victory in the results of the two states.
"Need I say who is the political victor in Gujarat. What a victory! In Gujarat, the winner limped across the finish line with a young sprinter close on his heels," he tweeted.
The BJP won the Gujarat Assembly polls for a record sixth straight victory today, and evicted the Congress in Himachal Pradesh. -- PTI
20:24 BJP wins Gujarat but loses in PM Modi's hometown
The Unjha constituency, under which Prime Minister Narendra Modi's hometown Vadnagar falls, today slipped out of the Bharatiya Janata Party's hands with the Congress winning the north Gujarat seat.
Congress' Ashaben Patel wrested the seat, falling in the Patidar-dominated Mehsana district, from BJP's five-term MLA Narayanbhai Patel.
Mehsana was the epicentre of the Patidar agitation, which flared up in 2015.
The BJP was trying to contain the damage in Unjha by playing up the fact that its local candidate heads the Umiya Dham Temple, which is revered by the Patel community, but it clearly came a cropper.
Ashaben defeated Narayanbhai by a margin of 19,529 votes. She bagged 81,797 votes as against the BJP candidate's 62,268 votes.
The 79-year-old BJP veteran had defeated Ashaben, 40, in the 2012 assembly election, winning the seat by a margin of over 24,000 votes.
Out of the total 2.12 lakh voters of Unjha, over 77,000 are Patidars, while around 50,000 belong to the Thakor community.
Both Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi had held poll rallies in Vadnagar.
Overall, in the Mehsana district, the BJP won five of the seven seats, with two going to the Congress.
Apart from Unjha, Congress bagged the Becharaji constituency while the Mahesana city, Kheralu, Visnagar, Kadi and Vijapur seats went to the BJP. -- PTI
20:07 What happened to 150+: Prakash Raj to PM
Multi-lingual actor Prakash Raj, who has been critical of the BJP, today lauded the saffron party for its win in the Gujarat polls but asked why it could not achieve its target of more than 150 seats.
Raj congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the BJP's victory but tweeted "Weren't you supposed to sweep with your VIKAAS? What happened to 150+..?."
He inquired whether Modi will pause for a moment to realise that "divisive politics" has not worked.
"Our country has bigger issues than Pakistan, religion, caste, supporting fringe groups that threaten... and the ego of settling personal scores. There are genuine rural issues," the actor said.
Saying that the "neglected voice" of the farmer, poor, and rural India just got louder, Raj sought to know from the prime minister whether he could hear that.
The actor had earlier questioned Modi's "silence" over the killing of senior journalist and activist Gauri Lankesh with whom he was closely associated.
He has also been criticising BJP and right wing outfits since then, inviting sharp attacks from them. -- PTI
19:26
PM Modi asks BJP workers to raise slogans, 'Jeetega bhai jeetega, Vikas hi jeetega'.
19:15 This Congressman lost, but did not blame EVMs
As the ruling BJP today secured a majority in Gujarat, state Congress president Bharatsinh Solanki said his party accepts people's verdict and he takes responsibility for the defeat.
Solanki also expressed full faith in the Election Commission for "just and fair" polls, but urged it to take steps to remove the doubts raised over the functioning of the electronic voting machines (EVMs). "Being the state Congress president, I am taking the responsibility for the party's defeat," Solanki said.
He said the ruling BJP failed to meet its 150-plus target, and registered its lowest tally in 22 years. "We accept the verdict given by the people of Gujarat. We are grateful to the people for the kind of support they showed to the (the Congress's campaign of) 'Navsarjan Gujarat'," Solanki told reporters.
Solanki also expressed full faith in the Election Commission for "just and fair" polls, but urged it to take steps to remove the doubts raised over the functioning of the electronic voting machines (EVMs). "Being the state Congress president, I am taking the responsibility for the party's defeat," Solanki said.
He said the ruling BJP failed to meet its 150-plus target, and registered its lowest tally in 22 years. "We accept the verdict given by the people of Gujarat. We are grateful to the people for the kind of support they showed to the (the Congress's campaign of) 'Navsarjan Gujarat'," Solanki told reporters.
19:11 Historic to keep winning for so long: PM
Update on the PM's speech at the BJP party HQ:
"Thirty years back, the poison of caste was spread so badly in Gujarat that it took workers like me 30 years to get rid of it. In the last few months there were attempts again to sow seeds of casteism, but people rejected it, I congratulate them, but people must be alert.
"We took three decades to remove the poison of casteism from Gujarat. We took Gujarat on the path of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'. Our party president played an instrumental role in our Vijay Yatra.
"Six crore Gujaratis are one and they want to move ahead on the path of progress. Let every Gujarati embrace one another, we cannot and won't be divided. Whatever happened, let that be forgotten... only think of unity and brotherhood."
"Thirty years back, the poison of caste was spread so badly in Gujarat that it took workers like me 30 years to get rid of it. In the last few months there were attempts again to sow seeds of casteism, but people rejected it, I congratulate them, but people must be alert.
"We took three decades to remove the poison of casteism from Gujarat. We took Gujarat on the path of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'. Our party president played an instrumental role in our Vijay Yatra.
"Six crore Gujaratis are one and they want to move ahead on the path of progress. Let every Gujarati embrace one another, we cannot and won't be divided. Whatever happened, let that be forgotten... only think of unity and brotherhood."
18:53 My exit did not stop vikas in Gujarat: PM
The PM speaking at the BJP HQ in Delhi after the twin wins in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh. Excerpts...
"Firstly I want to thank Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh's people for choosing the path of 'vikas'. Only by the 'vikas marg' will the standard of living improve. Main Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh ki janta ko shat-shat naman karta hun ki unhone vikas ke marg ko chuna.
"Support for BJP shows the nation is ready for reform agenda and every citizen wants India transformed. The results in Himachal Pradesh show that if you don't do development and are embroiled in all wrong acts then after five years people will not accept you.
"Support for BJP shows the nation is ready for the reform agenda and every citizen wants India transformed. Recent elections results have proven that the country is ready for reform, is looking towards things that perform in a positive way and believes in transformation.
"Gujarat election results are historic. In this day and age, for a party to keep winning for so long... In Gujarat, BJP won all the seats it contested in 1989 Lok Sabha polls. We won most of the seats we contested in 1990. In 1995, in 1998, in 2002, in 2007 and in 2012 we won. We won most seats in Lok Sabha polls too.
"So many conspiracies were hatched in Gujarat by Congress, misinformation was being spread. People cannot bear if anyone makes fun of 'vikas'.
"After 2014, there is hunger for development. Even if you do not like BJP, do not try to derail the progress being made towards development.
"For me, Gujarat polls are a matter of double joy. I am so happy that after I left the state, my colleagues there continued the good work."
"Firstly I want to thank Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh's people for choosing the path of 'vikas'. Only by the 'vikas marg' will the standard of living improve. Main Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh ki janta ko shat-shat naman karta hun ki unhone vikas ke marg ko chuna.
"Support for BJP shows the nation is ready for reform agenda and every citizen wants India transformed. The results in Himachal Pradesh show that if you don't do development and are embroiled in all wrong acts then after five years people will not accept you.
"Support for BJP shows the nation is ready for the reform agenda and every citizen wants India transformed. Recent elections results have proven that the country is ready for reform, is looking towards things that perform in a positive way and believes in transformation.
"Gujarat election results are historic. In this day and age, for a party to keep winning for so long... In Gujarat, BJP won all the seats it contested in 1989 Lok Sabha polls. We won most of the seats we contested in 1990. In 1995, in 1998, in 2002, in 2007 and in 2012 we won. We won most seats in Lok Sabha polls too.
"So many conspiracies were hatched in Gujarat by Congress, misinformation was being spread. People cannot bear if anyone makes fun of 'vikas'.
"After 2014, there is hunger for development. Even if you do not like BJP, do not try to derail the progress being made towards development.
"For me, Gujarat polls are a matter of double joy. I am so happy that after I left the state, my colleagues there continued the good work."
18:31 Modi-Shah begin victory celebrations at BJP HQ
PM Narendra Modi, BJP President Amit Shah, Arun Jaitley and other senior leaders of the party's parliamentary board at the headquarters in New Delhi. Amit Shah and other leaders felicitate the PM at the BJP HQ in Delhi as party celebrates Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh win.
Amit Shah begins his speech saying the chant of Bharat mata ki Jai should be heard from the mountains of Himachal to the beaches of Gujarat. Thanking people of Gujarat and Himachal, Shah says that the BJP has governments in 19 states. The BJP has won despite caste politics and the slurs and the unfortunate words used on the PM in Gujarat, Shah says. He says the BJP has not lost any poll in Gujarat since 1990. "We have got full majority in Gujart. The win shows the trust people have in the BJP," he says.
Amit Shah begins his speech saying the chant of Bharat mata ki Jai should be heard from the mountains of Himachal to the beaches of Gujarat. Thanking people of Gujarat and Himachal, Shah says that the BJP has governments in 19 states. The BJP has won despite caste politics and the slurs and the unfortunate words used on the PM in Gujarat, Shah says. He says the BJP has not lost any poll in Gujarat since 1990. "We have got full majority in Gujart. The win shows the trust people have in the BJP," he says.
18:15 BJP Parliamentary Board meeting set to begin
Home Minister Rajnath Singh arrives at the BJP HQ in Delhi for the parliamentary board meeting.
18:11 People want change from misgovernance in HP: Anurag Thakur
With the BJP set to wrest power from the Congress in Himachal Pradesh, party leader Anurag Thakur today said the people of the state wanted change because of a bad law-and-order situation and "misgovernance".
Thakur said that the announcement of Prem Kumar Dhumal as the BJP's chief ministerial candidate ahead of the election also helped the voters turn in favour of the saffron party.
However, Dhumal was defeated from the Sujanpur Assembly seat. "People wanted a change in Himachal Pradesh because the law-and-order situation was bad and also, there was misgovernance. The Congress was involved in corruption," he alleged.
Thakur, who is Dhumal's son, claimed that Himachal Pradesh had progressed well under the BJP governments in the past. "If you compare the two governments -- that of the Congress and of the BJP under the leadership of Dhumalji -- I think, there is a clear demarcation," he said.
The announcement of the BJP's chief ministerial candidate ahead of the polls worked in favour of the party, he said, adding that Himachal Pradesh was a small state and the people wanted to know who their leader would be if they needed to replace Congress Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh.
"That (naming the chief ministerial candidate) helped. You could see the change after the announcement," he said. Thakur is a Lok Sabha MP from the Hamirpur constituency in Himachal Pradesh. -- PTI
Thakur said that the announcement of Prem Kumar Dhumal as the BJP's chief ministerial candidate ahead of the election also helped the voters turn in favour of the saffron party.
However, Dhumal was defeated from the Sujanpur Assembly seat. "People wanted a change in Himachal Pradesh because the law-and-order situation was bad and also, there was misgovernance. The Congress was involved in corruption," he alleged.
Thakur, who is Dhumal's son, claimed that Himachal Pradesh had progressed well under the BJP governments in the past. "If you compare the two governments -- that of the Congress and of the BJP under the leadership of Dhumalji -- I think, there is a clear demarcation," he said.
The announcement of the BJP's chief ministerial candidate ahead of the polls worked in favour of the party, he said, adding that Himachal Pradesh was a small state and the people wanted to know who their leader would be if they needed to replace Congress Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh.
"That (naming the chief ministerial candidate) helped. You could see the change after the announcement," he said. Thakur is a Lok Sabha MP from the Hamirpur constituency in Himachal Pradesh. -- PTI
17:57 BJP's vote share falls 11% from 2014 polls
The BJP's vote share has slumped sharply since the 2014 Lok Sabha polls when it clocked nearly 60 per cent votes, while that of Congress has improved significantly -- still not good enough for the Rahul Gandhi- led party to win sufficient number of seats.
As per the results declared today by the Election Commission, the BJP has got close to 49.1 per cent votes, down from nearly 60 per cent in 2014 but somewhat higher than nearly 48 per cent it polled in the 2012 state assembly polls.
On the other hand, Congress' vote share has risen to about 41.4 per cent this time -- up from 33 per cent in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections and also higher than around 39 per cent in the 2012 assembly polls.
The difference in vote share between the two parties works out to be around 7.7 per cent, in line with a shrinking gap witnessed since the 2007 assembly polls in the western state. In 2007, the BJP's vote share was 49.12 per cent as against 39.63 per cent of the Congress, the gap being 9.49 per cent. This gap further reduced to 9 per cent in 2012.
The gap was much wider at 10.4 per cent in the assembly polls held immediately after the 2002 riots, which is said to have sharply polarised the electorate. The difference in vote share was nearly 30 per cent in 2014, the year BJP stormed to power at the Centre riding a pan-India Narendra Modi wave and had won all seats from Gujarat.
After a complete rout in 2014, the Congress has improved its performance while its seat tally has also improved from the 2012 levels.
As per the results declared today, the independents have scored 4.3 per cent votes in Gujarat, while 1.8 per cent voters opted for NOTA (None of the above). No party other than Congress and the BJP could get even 1 per cent votes. -- PTI
As per the results declared today by the Election Commission, the BJP has got close to 49.1 per cent votes, down from nearly 60 per cent in 2014 but somewhat higher than nearly 48 per cent it polled in the 2012 state assembly polls.
On the other hand, Congress' vote share has risen to about 41.4 per cent this time -- up from 33 per cent in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections and also higher than around 39 per cent in the 2012 assembly polls.
The difference in vote share between the two parties works out to be around 7.7 per cent, in line with a shrinking gap witnessed since the 2007 assembly polls in the western state. In 2007, the BJP's vote share was 49.12 per cent as against 39.63 per cent of the Congress, the gap being 9.49 per cent. This gap further reduced to 9 per cent in 2012.
The gap was much wider at 10.4 per cent in the assembly polls held immediately after the 2002 riots, which is said to have sharply polarised the electorate. The difference in vote share was nearly 30 per cent in 2014, the year BJP stormed to power at the Centre riding a pan-India Narendra Modi wave and had won all seats from Gujarat.
After a complete rout in 2014, the Congress has improved its performance while its seat tally has also improved from the 2012 levels.
As per the results declared today, the independents have scored 4.3 per cent votes in Gujarat, while 1.8 per cent voters opted for NOTA (None of the above). No party other than Congress and the BJP could get even 1 per cent votes. -- PTI
17:38 Markets breathe easy after BJP noses ahead in Gujarat, HP
The stock market rallied 139 points today on prospects that the BJP is set to keep power in Gujarat and topple the Congress in Himachal Pradesh, but not before it got a big scare from counting of votes early on during the session.
The start was ominous as the benchmark Sensex crashed 867 points to go below the psychological 33,000 while the NSE Nifty plunged 258 points within one hour of counting of votes that showed both the parties were locked in a tight race. But then, the tide turned as the BJP started to take lead in a majority of seats.
The start was ominous as the benchmark Sensex crashed 867 points to go below the psychological 33,000 while the NSE Nifty plunged 258 points within one hour of counting of votes that showed both the parties were locked in a tight race. But then, the tide turned as the BJP started to take lead in a majority of seats.
17:31 Cong's prestigious win in HP
This is the man who defeated BJP's chief ministerial candidate in Himachal Pradesh. Rajinder Rana, the Congress candidate, won in Sujanpur against BJP's Prem Kumar Dhumal. "It's a symbol of people's confidence in Congress. Thankful that they made me victorious. We have never stepped back from serving people in Sujanpur and we will always serve them," Rana said.
17:21 Moral defeat for BJP in Gujarat: Mamata
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today said it was a moral defeat for the BJP in Gujarat and the people of the state have "belled the cat for 2019".
Congratulating the people of Gujarat for their "very balanced verdict at this hour", Banerjee said it was a face- saving win for the ruling party.
"It is a temporary and face-saving win, but it shows a moral defeat for BJP. Gujarat voted against atrocities, anxiety and injustice caused to the common people. Gujarat belled the cat for 2019," Banerjee tweeted.
The TMC chief had recently hailed Congress president Rahul Gandhi for "putting the BJP on the backfoot". -- PTI
File pic.
Congratulating the people of Gujarat for their "very balanced verdict at this hour", Banerjee said it was a face- saving win for the ruling party.
"It is a temporary and face-saving win, but it shows a moral defeat for BJP. Gujarat voted against atrocities, anxiety and injustice caused to the common people. Gujarat belled the cat for 2019," Banerjee tweeted.
The TMC chief had recently hailed Congress president Rahul Gandhi for "putting the BJP on the backfoot". -- PTI
File pic.
17:18 Guj poll results won't have bearing on K'taka polls: CM
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah today said the results of the Gujarat Assembly polls would not have any impact on the Assembly election in the state, which is due early next year.
"The election results of one state will not have an effect on the election of another state. The issues will be different. Whatever may the Gujarat poll results be, it will have no impact on Karnataka," he said.
The Congress leader also claimed that by ensuring the party's victory in the Assembly polls, Karnataka would give the "first gift" to newly-appointed Congress president Rahul Gandhi for his leadership. Claiming that there was no anti-incumbency against his government, Siddaramaiah said if it was there, the Congress would have got to know about it in the Nanjangud and Gundlupet bypolls, which the party won by big margins.
"I am sure that in 2018, we will come back to power hundred per cent," he added. The Congress has already announced that Siddaramaiah will be its face in the Karnataka Assembly polls. Expressing doubts about the BJP's performance in Gujarat, despite anti-incumbency and a strong undercurrent against it, the chief minister said the poll results lent credence to the doubts regarding EVMs.
Noting that the trends of the results showed an improved performance of the Congress, the chief minister gave the credit for that to Rahul Gandhi. "I feel, in Gujarat, we have won despite losing. The people have shown their support to Rahul Gandhi's leadership," he said. -- PTI
"The election results of one state will not have an effect on the election of another state. The issues will be different. Whatever may the Gujarat poll results be, it will have no impact on Karnataka," he said.
The Congress leader also claimed that by ensuring the party's victory in the Assembly polls, Karnataka would give the "first gift" to newly-appointed Congress president Rahul Gandhi for his leadership. Claiming that there was no anti-incumbency against his government, Siddaramaiah said if it was there, the Congress would have got to know about it in the Nanjangud and Gundlupet bypolls, which the party won by big margins.
"I am sure that in 2018, we will come back to power hundred per cent," he added. The Congress has already announced that Siddaramaiah will be its face in the Karnataka Assembly polls. Expressing doubts about the BJP's performance in Gujarat, despite anti-incumbency and a strong undercurrent against it, the chief minister said the poll results lent credence to the doubts regarding EVMs.
Noting that the trends of the results showed an improved performance of the Congress, the chief minister gave the credit for that to Rahul Gandhi. "I feel, in Gujarat, we have won despite losing. The people have shown their support to Rahul Gandhi's leadership," he said. -- PTI
17:12 People rejected caste politics: Rupani
Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani (right) flashes the victory sign. He said he wanted to thank the people of Gujarat for the party's win in the state. "I salute the hard work of the people of Gujarat. People rejected caste politics. I will continue to work for Gujarat. BJP's vote share has gone up," he said.
17:01 Did not expect to lose: Dhumal
Personal loss is not of much importance.The gain that victory has brought to state BJP is important. Thankful to people of the state for voting for BJP. In politics, sometimes one wins, sometimes one loses. I was not expecting to lose, I will do an analysis: PK Dhumal, Chief Minister-designate of the BJP in Himachal Pradesh.
16:56 Hardik blames EVMs for BJP win
Patidar leader Hardik Patel on Monday accused the BJP of tampering EVM's in Gujarat.At a time, when the BJP is on its way to register another win in the state, Hardik while addressing a press conference said, "The results of BJP winning signifies that EVMs were tampered during the elections. In Surat, Rajkot and Ahmedabad particularly, there are reports of 12-15 seats where the BJP has won massively due to EVM tampering.""I have been talking about this issue for the last three days. And I have read reports about EVM tampering as well. In Surat ward, where over one lakh Patidars live, they have informed us that EVMs have been tampered by the BJP", added Hardik.
The Patidar leader also urged the Congress party to raise the issue of EVM tampering.
"In the self-interest of the people, the Congress should also do the same and raise the issue of EVM tampering", said Hardik.Hardik also differentiated the difference of using technology in elections in India and other countries. -- ANI
The Patidar leader also urged the Congress party to raise the issue of EVM tampering.
"In the self-interest of the people, the Congress should also do the same and raise the issue of EVM tampering", said Hardik.Hardik also differentiated the difference of using technology in elections in India and other countries. -- ANI
16:53 AAP decimated in Gujarat
The BJP decimated the Aam Aadmi Party in Gujarat. Of the 30-odd seats that Arvind Kejriwal's AAP contested in the 182-member Gujarat Assembly election, the party ended up playing an (unwilling) foil in two. In nearly all the remaining seats, the AAP candidates lost their deposits, with some of them even polling votes in two digits.The three seats where the AAP made its presence somewhat felt are Chhota Udepur, Wankaner, and Bapunagar. In Chhota Udepur, AAP's Arjunbhai Versingbhai Rathva polled nearly 4500 votes, which was the best performance by any AAP leader in Gujarat, where electoral politics is largely marked by a bipolar contest between the BJP and the Congress.
16:36 Rahul concedes defeat
Congress president Rahul Gandhi concedes defeat. Rahul tweets: The Congress party accepts the verdict of the people and congratulates the new governments in both states. I thank the people of Gujarat and Himachal with all my heart for the love they showed me.
"My Congress brothers and sisters, you have made me very proud. You are different than those you fought because you fought anger with dignity. You have demonstrated to everyone that the Congress's greatest strength is its decency and courage."
As of now, of the 182 seats in Gujarat, the BJP leads in 99 seats, with the Congress following close behind at 80.
"My Congress brothers and sisters, you have made me very proud. You are different than those you fought because you fought anger with dignity. You have demonstrated to everyone that the Congress's greatest strength is its decency and courage."
As of now, of the 182 seats in Gujarat, the BJP leads in 99 seats, with the Congress following close behind at 80.
16:29 Nitish congratulates Modi, Shah on Gujarat, Himachal victory
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah for winning the Assembly polls in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh.
The Janata Dal (United) president also took a dig at the Congress, saying that while the party was aiming to defeat the BJP in Gujarat, it "ended up losing even in Himachal Pradesh", where it was in power.
"Congratulations to honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party for the victory in the Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh Assembly elections. The Congress, which had claimed it would wrest power from the BJP in Gujarat, has ended up losing even Himachal Pradesh," Kumar tweeted in Hindi. -- PTI
The Janata Dal (United) president also took a dig at the Congress, saying that while the party was aiming to defeat the BJP in Gujarat, it "ended up losing even in Himachal Pradesh", where it was in power.
"Congratulations to honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party for the victory in the Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh Assembly elections. The Congress, which had claimed it would wrest power from the BJP in Gujarat, has ended up losing even Himachal Pradesh," Kumar tweeted in Hindi. -- PTI
16:18 This is a victory of development over dynasty: Amit Shah
Amit Shah holding a press conference at the party HQ in New Delhi.
"BJP's victory in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh is a victory of PM Narendra Modi's development agenda and against the politics of casteism and appeasement.
"We have once again emerged triumphant. I offer heartfelt gratitude to the people of Gujarat and Himchal Pradesh that they gave us another opportunity to serve them. This is a victory of development over dynasty and polarisation.
"Today is a great day for BJP. We want to thank the public of Gujarat and Himachal. Our vote per cent has increased compared to 2012.
"Under Modi-ji's leadership we will win in four states as well. Modiji's vision for 2019 (Congress-mukt Bharat) will be turned into a reality."
"BJP's victory in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh is a victory of PM Narendra Modi's development agenda and against the politics of casteism and appeasement.
"We have once again emerged triumphant. I offer heartfelt gratitude to the people of Gujarat and Himchal Pradesh that they gave us another opportunity to serve them. This is a victory of development over dynasty and polarisation.
"Today is a great day for BJP. We want to thank the public of Gujarat and Himachal. Our vote per cent has increased compared to 2012.
"Under Modi-ji's leadership we will win in four states as well. Modiji's vision for 2019 (Congress-mukt Bharat) will be turned into a reality."
16:07 Hardik blames EVMs for BJP win
Patidar leader, Hardik Patel: There has been tampering in EVMs in Surat, Rajkot and Ahmedabad, hence the gap is very less wherever tampering happened. EVMs are hackable.
16:02 I take full responsibility: Virbhadra Singh
I accept the victory of BJP. I, being the CM, take full responsibility of our performance here (in Himachal Pradesh). I hope Vikramaditya (Singh) keeps winning in future, like he won today: Virbhadra Singh.
15:50 Jeeta vikas, jeeta Gujarat: PM
First reactions from PM Narendra Modi as the trends indicate wins in both Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh.
"Election results in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh indicate a strong support for politics of good governance and development. I salute the hardworking BJP Karyakartas in these states for their hardwork which has led to these impressive.
"I bow to the people of Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh for their affection and trust in BJP. I assure them that we will leave no stone unturned in furthering the development journey of these states and serve the people tirelessly.
"Himachal Pradesh mein lehraya kamal, vikas ki hui bhavya jeet. Jeeta vikas, jeeta Gujarat. Jay Jay garvi Gujarat."
"Election results in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh indicate a strong support for politics of good governance and development. I salute the hardworking BJP Karyakartas in these states for their hardwork which has led to these impressive.
"I bow to the people of Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh for their affection and trust in BJP. I assure them that we will leave no stone unturned in furthering the development journey of these states and serve the people tirelessly.
"Himachal Pradesh mein lehraya kamal, vikas ki hui bhavya jeet. Jeeta vikas, jeeta Gujarat. Jay Jay garvi Gujarat."
15:32 Amit Shah arrives to hero's welcome at BJP HQ
BJP President Amit Shah arrives at the party HQ in Delhi as workers celebrate its lead in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh.
The BJP today headed for a record sixth straight victory in Gujarat assembly polls, and was set to evict the Congress in Himachal Pradesh, tightening the party's grip over the country's politics with general elections only 18 months away.
"Jo jeeta wohi Sikandar (whoever wins is the king), said Union minister Smriti Irani, when asked if the Congress gave it a tough fight. The BJP called the results a vote for development pushed by Prime Minister Narendera Modi, who was the tireless star campaigner in both states.
The Congress took solace in the fact that it bettered its tally in Gujarat, the home turf of Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah. Still, when the final results are in later today, it will be clear that another Congress-ruled state has slipped from its grasp into BJP control. It now rules only Karnataka and Punjab among the major states.
Leads and wins
Gujarat
BJP Leads: 54, Wins: 44
Congress: Leads 42, Wins 36
Others: Leads 4, Wins 2
Himachal Pradesh
BJP: Leads 35, Wins 9
Congress: Leads: 16-, Wins 5
Others: Leads 2, Wins 1
The BJP today headed for a record sixth straight victory in Gujarat assembly polls, and was set to evict the Congress in Himachal Pradesh, tightening the party's grip over the country's politics with general elections only 18 months away.
"Jo jeeta wohi Sikandar (whoever wins is the king), said Union minister Smriti Irani, when asked if the Congress gave it a tough fight. The BJP called the results a vote for development pushed by Prime Minister Narendera Modi, who was the tireless star campaigner in both states.
The Congress took solace in the fact that it bettered its tally in Gujarat, the home turf of Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah. Still, when the final results are in later today, it will be clear that another Congress-ruled state has slipped from its grasp into BJP control. It now rules only Karnataka and Punjab among the major states.
Leads and wins
Gujarat
BJP Leads: 54, Wins: 44
Congress: Leads 42, Wins 36
Others: Leads 4, Wins 2
Himachal Pradesh
BJP: Leads 35, Wins 9
Congress: Leads: 16-, Wins 5
Others: Leads 2, Wins 1
15:26 Smriti's sings jo heeta wohi Sikander
As the BJP is looking set to form governments in both Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh, union minister Smriti Irani on Monday said the election results were the victory of development.She credited Prime Minster Narendra Modi and booth workers for the success in the assembly polls.
"It is a matter of happiness for us, this is the victory of development," the information and broadcasting minister told ANI.
When asked about the tough competition by the Congress in the assembly elections, Irani quipped "jo jeeta wohi sikandar" (The one who wins is the emperor).
At the time of reporting, BJP, in Gujarat, was leading in 100 seats, well past the halfway mark of 92 and in the hill state of Himachal Pradesh, it was ahead in 43 out of 68 seats. - ANI
"It is a matter of happiness for us, this is the victory of development," the information and broadcasting minister told ANI.
When asked about the tough competition by the Congress in the assembly elections, Irani quipped "jo jeeta wohi sikandar" (The one who wins is the emperor).
At the time of reporting, BJP, in Gujarat, was leading in 100 seats, well past the halfway mark of 92 and in the hill state of Himachal Pradesh, it was ahead in 43 out of 68 seats. - ANI
15:21 Parrikar congratulates Rupani for winning assembly seat
Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar today congratulated his Gujarat counterpart Vijay Rupani for winning his assembly seat. Rupani, of the BJP, retained the Rajkot West seat by defeating his nearest rival Indranil Rajyaguru of the Congress by a margin of 54,300 votes.
Parrikar took to Twitter to congratulate Rupani soon after the counting trends showed the BJP is heading towards retaining power in the state. "Congratulations to CM @vijayrupanibjp for an impressive victory in Rajkot West," said Parrikar. -- PTI
Parrikar took to Twitter to congratulate Rupani soon after the counting trends showed the BJP is heading towards retaining power in the state. "Congratulations to CM @vijayrupanibjp for an impressive victory in Rajkot West," said Parrikar. -- PTI
15:15 Grateful to the people of Vadgam: Jignesh Mevani
Jignesh Mevani who won from Vadgam in Gujarat: "I express my gratitude to the people of Vadgam for all their support. Now I will raise the voice of Gujarat's discriminated sections in the assembly."
14:54 BJP's two winning Vs
As the BJP is set to retain power in Gujarat for the record sixth time, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said today that the mandate is for the party's politics of "vishwas" and "vikas".
"The BJP came up with the politics of vishwas (trust) and vikas (development) for Gujarat and people responded to it positively. The Opposition tried to spread wrong messages against us, but we prevailed because of the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and national president Amit Shah," he said. Fadnavis was speaking to reporters outside the state assembly.
"The BJP came up with the politics of vishwas (trust) and vikas (development) for Gujarat and people responded to it positively. The Opposition tried to spread wrong messages against us, but we prevailed because of the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and national president Amit Shah," he said. Fadnavis was speaking to reporters outside the state assembly.
14:46 BJP's best film: Jo jeeta wohi Sikander
As the BJP today headed for its sixth straight term in Gujarat and wresting Himachal Pradesh from the Congress, its leaders described the poll outcome as a vote for development and trust in Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Echoing his party's mood, Modi flashed a victory sign after he arrived in Parliament in New Delhi.
Party leaders used the 1992 Aamir Khan starrer "Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar" title to downplay the better than projected performance of the Congress in Gujarat and a possible decline in their own numbers.
"Jo jeeta wohi Sikandar (whoever wins is king). This is the message to those who joked about vikas (development)," said Union minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi.
Union minister Smriti Irani seconded him and said the victory was dedicated to booth-level party workers and those who voted for "good governance" and "development". Asked whether the Congress had given the party a tough fight, she said, "I feel 'Jo jeeta wohi Sikander'..."
Echoing his party's mood, Modi flashed a victory sign after he arrived in Parliament in New Delhi.
Party leaders used the 1992 Aamir Khan starrer "Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar" title to downplay the better than projected performance of the Congress in Gujarat and a possible decline in their own numbers.
"Jo jeeta wohi Sikandar (whoever wins is king). This is the message to those who joked about vikas (development)," said Union minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi.
Union minister Smriti Irani seconded him and said the victory was dedicated to booth-level party workers and those who voted for "good governance" and "development". Asked whether the Congress had given the party a tough fight, she said, "I feel 'Jo jeeta wohi Sikander'..."
14:19 He scored zero in his opening innings: Parrikar on Rahul
The BJP today headed for a record sixth straight victory in Gujarat assembly polls, and was set to evict the Congress in Himachal Pradesh, widening the party's grip over the country's politics with general elections only 18 months away.
First reactions from senior party leaders in the BJP. This is Rahul Gandhi's first election after he became Congress president. The trends so far indicate a win for the BJP in both Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh.
Goa CM Manohar Parrikar on Rahul Gandhi: "In his opening innings he scored zero."
Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman: Undoubtedly, a major victory. The kind of work which party workers have done right from booth workers level till PM's level, everybody put their best foot forward and both Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh have recognised the good work going on in the name of development.
Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh (on Rahul Gandhi): Abhi toh kuch nahi bolunga kyunki woh haal hi mein adhyaksh bane hain lekin 'sar mundwate hi ole pade'. I dont want to comment right now because he has just become the president, but he has been greeted by misfortune in his very first venture.
Trends so far:
Gujarat
BJP: leads 88, win 13
Cong: leads 62, wins 14
Others: leads 3, wins 2
Himachal Pradesh
BJP: leads 40, wins 3
Cong: leads 19, wins 2
Others: leads 3, wins 1
The BJP called the results a vote for development pushed by Prime Minister Narendera Modi, who was the tireless star campaigner in both states.
The Congress took solace in the fact that it bettered its tally in Gujarat, the home turf of Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah. Still, when the final results are in later today, it will be clear that another Congress-ruled state has slipped from its grasp into BJP control.
It now rules only Karnataka and Punjab among the major states. "This is a vote for development and trust for Narendra Modi," Union minister Jitendra Singh told reporters.
First reactions from senior party leaders in the BJP. This is Rahul Gandhi's first election after he became Congress president. The trends so far indicate a win for the BJP in both Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh.
Goa CM Manohar Parrikar on Rahul Gandhi: "In his opening innings he scored zero."
Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman: Undoubtedly, a major victory. The kind of work which party workers have done right from booth workers level till PM's level, everybody put their best foot forward and both Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh have recognised the good work going on in the name of development.
Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh (on Rahul Gandhi): Abhi toh kuch nahi bolunga kyunki woh haal hi mein adhyaksh bane hain lekin 'sar mundwate hi ole pade'. I dont want to comment right now because he has just become the president, but he has been greeted by misfortune in his very first venture.
Trends so far:
Gujarat
BJP: leads 88, win 13
Cong: leads 62, wins 14
Others: leads 3, wins 2
Himachal Pradesh
BJP: leads 40, wins 3
Cong: leads 19, wins 2
Others: leads 3, wins 1
The BJP called the results a vote for development pushed by Prime Minister Narendera Modi, who was the tireless star campaigner in both states.
The Congress took solace in the fact that it bettered its tally in Gujarat, the home turf of Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah. Still, when the final results are in later today, it will be clear that another Congress-ruled state has slipped from its grasp into BJP control.
It now rules only Karnataka and Punjab among the major states. "This is a vote for development and trust for Narendra Modi," Union minister Jitendra Singh told reporters.
13:52 Poor loser Nirupam blames EVMs for Cong loss
Mumbai Congress chief Sanjay Nirupam today said the BJP's victory in Gujarat was not because of the people in the state but because of EVMs. He also termed electronic voting machines a "big threat to Indian democracy".
"When the entire Gujarat was against the BJP and empty chairs could be seen during the prime minister's poll rallies, this victory for the BJP is not by the people of Gujarat but by the EVMs.
"We suspected this right from the beginning. All beware, this is a big threat to Indian democracy," the president of the Mumbai unit of the Congress said in a tweet.
The former Lok Sabha MP also recalled an October 24 tweet in which he said the Congress will win 125-140 seats and the BJP only 40-47, contrary to opinion polls.
"I still stand by this tweet. This would have been the result if EVM would not have been tampered," he said on Twitter. The BJP is set to form government in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh. - PTI
"When the entire Gujarat was against the BJP and empty chairs could be seen during the prime minister's poll rallies, this victory for the BJP is not by the people of Gujarat but by the EVMs.
"We suspected this right from the beginning. All beware, this is a big threat to Indian democracy," the president of the Mumbai unit of the Congress said in a tweet.
The former Lok Sabha MP also recalled an October 24 tweet in which he said the Congress will win 125-140 seats and the BJP only 40-47, contrary to opinion polls.
"I still stand by this tweet. This would have been the result if EVM would not have been tampered," he said on Twitter. The BJP is set to form government in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh. - PTI
13:40 Can EVMs be tampered? Experspeak
This is what Chief Election Commissioner AK Joti said on EVM tampering: "Questions being raised about EVMs have already been answered by us in the media. VVPATs were there in every polling station in Gujarat, which enabled voters to see whom they voted for, so issues being raised aren't right. I assure that EVMS cannot be tampered with. All arrangements have been made in Gujarat by the Chief Electoral officer of the state, at all places in counting halls for the state assembly elections. I assure you that there can be no tampering with the EVMs."
This is what former CECs have to say on EVM tampering.
Former Chief Election Commissioner of India, HS Brahma: "I firmly believe that our EVMs, VVPATs cannot be tampered with. This matter should be closed once and for all as it is tried and tested. EVM is a standalone machine, question of hacking doesn't arise."
Former CEC, Naveen Chawla: EVMs cannot be tampered with, even in the future. I am very clear about this. During my time, BJP had raised doubts on EVM so we had also held a demonstration like earlier this year for all to come and try rig it.
This is what former CECs have to say on EVM tampering.
Former Chief Election Commissioner of India, HS Brahma: "I firmly believe that our EVMs, VVPATs cannot be tampered with. This matter should be closed once and for all as it is tried and tested. EVM is a standalone machine, question of hacking doesn't arise."
Former CEC, Naveen Chawla: EVMs cannot be tampered with, even in the future. I am very clear about this. During my time, BJP had raised doubts on EVM so we had also held a demonstration like earlier this year for all to come and try rig it.
13:32 Baazigar O Baazigar!
Saisuresh Sivaswamy's 5 quick takeaways from an election whose ripples will be felt in the 8 states going to elections in 2018, and even beyond, into 2019. Do read
13:02 PM's magic intact: Shatrughan
BJP's Shatrughan Sinha is unstinting in his praise for the PM and the BJP president as trends indicate a double win for the party in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh.
"@ShatruganSinha Congratulations to the hon'ble PM @narendramodi for his untiring efforts, sincerity, energy...and his magic, which remains intact. Congrats also to the great strategist National BJP President @AmitShah & to @arunjaitley for our comprehensive victory in HP & Gujarat. Jai BJP!"
However, the MP from Patna Sahib was not so charitable earlier. This is his tweet on December 12 before the exit polls suggested a win for his party.
"Humble appeal to our one man show & two man army. Please return "home" to Delhi, if we've exhausted all our tricks, tantrums, wrong statements & tall promises. Time to also bring back the ministers,ministries & Govt. sitting in Gujarat & fighting amongst themselves to get credit. ...If we are victorious, we know you shall get full credit..but if we are not, then who will take the rap? There's an old saying - "Taali kaptaan ko to gaali bhi kaptaan ko". Hope wish and pray that we get only Taalis in Gujarat elections. Jai Hind!"
"@ShatruganSinha Congratulations to the hon'ble PM @narendramodi for his untiring efforts, sincerity, energy...and his magic, which remains intact. Congrats also to the great strategist National BJP President @AmitShah & to @arunjaitley for our comprehensive victory in HP & Gujarat. Jai BJP!"
However, the MP from Patna Sahib was not so charitable earlier. This is his tweet on December 12 before the exit polls suggested a win for his party.
"Humble appeal to our one man show & two man army. Please return "home" to Delhi, if we've exhausted all our tricks, tantrums, wrong statements & tall promises. Time to also bring back the ministers,ministries & Govt. sitting in Gujarat & fighting amongst themselves to get credit. ...If we are victorious, we know you shall get full credit..but if we are not, then who will take the rap? There's an old saying - "Taali kaptaan ko to gaali bhi kaptaan ko". Hope wish and pray that we get only Taalis in Gujarat elections. Jai Hind!"
12:57 Rahul's 1st day in Parliament as Cong prez
Rahul Gandhi reaches Parliament. This is his first day in Parliament as Congress President. He was anointed for the party's top post on Saturday.
12:53
Latest visuals from 12 Tughlaq Lane as Congress President Rahul Gandhi leaves from his residence.
12:50
Celebrations broke out at the Gujarat BJP headquarters 'Kamalam' in Gandhinagar today as soon as the trends suggested that the ruling party was poised for a victory in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's home state.
Party supporters gathered in large numbers at the office and distributed sweets among themselves. On the other hand, only a few people could be seen at the Congress headquarters in Ahmedabad.
The BJP supporters, waiving the saffron flag and donning the party cap, greeted each other over the impending victory of the party which is set to retain power for the sixth term in a row.
"The Congress carried out negative politics and talked about caste. They said development has gone crazy, when in fact people in the opposition party had gone crazy. The people in Gujarat supported development over caste," said a supporter of the ruling party.
He was referring to the Congress' campaign theme "Vikas Gando Thayo Che" (development has gone crazy), ahead of the polls. The BJP had launched a counter drive, titled "I am development, I am Gujarat". -- PTI
Image: Celebrations at the BJP office at Nariman Point, Mumbai. Pic: Sahil Salvi
Party supporters gathered in large numbers at the office and distributed sweets among themselves. On the other hand, only a few people could be seen at the Congress headquarters in Ahmedabad.
The BJP supporters, waiving the saffron flag and donning the party cap, greeted each other over the impending victory of the party which is set to retain power for the sixth term in a row.
"The Congress carried out negative politics and talked about caste. They said development has gone crazy, when in fact people in the opposition party had gone crazy. The people in Gujarat supported development over caste," said a supporter of the ruling party.
He was referring to the Congress' campaign theme "Vikas Gando Thayo Che" (development has gone crazy), ahead of the polls. The BJP had launched a counter drive, titled "I am development, I am Gujarat". -- PTI
Image: Celebrations at the BJP office at Nariman Point, Mumbai. Pic: Sahil Salvi
12:42 Guj results indicate people not happy with BJP: Shiv Sena
The Shiv Sena today said the people were not happy with the BJP in Gujarat, going by the trends of the Assembly election counting. The BJP appeared to be on its way to retain power in the state, with trends from 182 seats giving it a lead in 101 and 3 wins while the Congress followed with 71 and one win.. The simple majority mark in the 182-member Assembly is 92.
BJP's Babubhai Bokhiriya won Porbandar Assembly seat, defeating Congress' Arjun Modhvadia by a margin of 1,855 votes. BJP's candidate Suresh Bhardwaj defeated Independent Harish Janartha in Shimla seat by 1,903 votes while in Anni, BJP's Kishori Lal beats Cong's Paras Ram 5,983 votes.
"We (the BJP) came to power in the country by citing the much-touted 'Gujarat model' (of development). If people in Gujarat are not happy (with the BJP) today, then understand their psyche, understand what people in the country feel," Sena MP Sanjay Raut said.
"The (BJP should) understand the mindset of people of Gujarat (and) the reason the people there are not happy," he said. The Rajya Sabha member claimed that the Narendra Modi-led government had not registered success on a single issue, be it on security, Kashmir, Pakistan, note ban, unemployment or farmer suicides. "This is what I gather from the Gujarat election results," Raut said.
Raut's remarks came on a day the Sena, BJP's bickering ally, heaped praise on Rahul Gandhi, lauding the newly appointed Congress president for "fighting the Gujarat poll battle without bothering about the result".
The Uddhav Thackeray-led party said the 47-year-old Amethi MP has taken over the reins of the grand old party at a crucial stage. "Rahul Gandhi has accepted the responsibility as Congress president at a crucial stage. There should be no objection in wishing him all the best," said an editorial in the Sena mouthpiece 'Saamana'.
Image: BJP's Vijay Goel tweets this picture of people signing the Victory Wall at the party HQ at 10, Ashoka Road, New Delhi.
BJP's Babubhai Bokhiriya won Porbandar Assembly seat, defeating Congress' Arjun Modhvadia by a margin of 1,855 votes. BJP's candidate Suresh Bhardwaj defeated Independent Harish Janartha in Shimla seat by 1,903 votes while in Anni, BJP's Kishori Lal beats Cong's Paras Ram 5,983 votes.
"We (the BJP) came to power in the country by citing the much-touted 'Gujarat model' (of development). If people in Gujarat are not happy (with the BJP) today, then understand their psyche, understand what people in the country feel," Sena MP Sanjay Raut said.
"The (BJP should) understand the mindset of people of Gujarat (and) the reason the people there are not happy," he said. The Rajya Sabha member claimed that the Narendra Modi-led government had not registered success on a single issue, be it on security, Kashmir, Pakistan, note ban, unemployment or farmer suicides. "This is what I gather from the Gujarat election results," Raut said.
Raut's remarks came on a day the Sena, BJP's bickering ally, heaped praise on Rahul Gandhi, lauding the newly appointed Congress president for "fighting the Gujarat poll battle without bothering about the result".
The Uddhav Thackeray-led party said the 47-year-old Amethi MP has taken over the reins of the grand old party at a crucial stage. "Rahul Gandhi has accepted the responsibility as Congress president at a crucial stage. There should be no objection in wishing him all the best," said an editorial in the Sena mouthpiece 'Saamana'.
Image: BJP's Vijay Goel tweets this picture of people signing the Victory Wall at the party HQ at 10, Ashoka Road, New Delhi.
12:35
And the jokes have begun. From a forward on WhatsApp.
Amit Shah targeted 150
28% GST on 150 = 42
Gujjus delivered 108
#GujaratVerdict #Explained
Amit Shah targeted 150
28% GST on 150 = 42
Gujjus delivered 108
#GujaratVerdict #Explained
12:24 Gujarat's big-ticket winners: CMs and the CM slayer
Jignesh Mevani, the Dalit leader contesting the Gujarat polls from the Vadagam (SC) seat in Banaskantha district as an Independent candidate has won. He has the support of the Congress.
Mevani, the face of last years Dalit agitation in Gujarat, also received the backing of the Aam Aadmi Party.
He had declared his candidature as sitting MLA Manibhai Vaghela said the state unit of the Congress had asked him not to enter the fray as a part of an agreement with the Dalit activist.
At a protest rally in the wake of the flogging of dalits in Una, Mevani the convenor of the Dalit Atyachar Ladat Samiti had led a rally of 20,000 dalits.
The protest ultimately led to the resignation of former Chief Minister, Anandi Ben, and a disturbance among the partys top ranks.
Mevani had considered activist and slain journalist Gauri Lankesh as his adopted mother. Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel wins Mahesana with a slim margin of 2200 votes. CM Vijay Rupani has also won.
Image: Activist Teesta Setalvad tweets this image saying, "Gauri Amma's Blessings with You @jigneshmevani80 @jigneshmewanii #GujaratVerdict #GujaratElection2017 #GujaratResults"
Mevani, the face of last years Dalit agitation in Gujarat, also received the backing of the Aam Aadmi Party.
He had declared his candidature as sitting MLA Manibhai Vaghela said the state unit of the Congress had asked him not to enter the fray as a part of an agreement with the Dalit activist.
At a protest rally in the wake of the flogging of dalits in Una, Mevani the convenor of the Dalit Atyachar Ladat Samiti had led a rally of 20,000 dalits.
The protest ultimately led to the resignation of former Chief Minister, Anandi Ben, and a disturbance among the partys top ranks.
Mevani had considered activist and slain journalist Gauri Lankesh as his adopted mother. Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel wins Mahesana with a slim margin of 2200 votes. CM Vijay Rupani has also won.
Image: Activist Teesta Setalvad tweets this image saying, "Gauri Amma's Blessings with You @jigneshmevani80 @jigneshmewanii #GujaratVerdict #GujaratElection2017 #GujaratResults"
12:09 I think we are doing very good: Sharmishta Mukherjee
Congress's Sharmishta Mukherjee to NDTV: "The Congress did manage to tap into the anti-incumbency sentiment. It is important to understand Gujarat is not like other states. It's the BJP citadel. If they lost that, the BJP would fall of like pack of cards so they pulled out all stops. I think we are doing very good."
Trends so far:
Gujarat
BJP 107
Cong 73
Others 2
Himachal
BJP 43
Cong 19, one win.
Others 4
Trends so far:
Gujarat
BJP 107
Cong 73
Others 2
Himachal
BJP 43
Cong 19, one win.
Others 4
12:01 Where's the laddoo?
No celebrations yet at the BJP's office at Nariman Point, Mumbai, though the party seems set for a win in both Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat. Pic: Sahil Salvi.
11:55
Congress's Arjun Modhwadiya loses from Porbandar to BJP's Babubhai Bokhiriya by 1855 votes.
11:49 Rahul put up nice campaign; results a win for Cong: Gehlot
As the BJP appeared to be on its way to retain power in Gujarat, senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot today said he saw the results as a "victory" for the party due to the response its chief Rahul Gandhi's campaign got from the people.
Gehlot, the Congress election in-charge for Gujarat, said Gandhi ran a nice campaign in the home state of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Trends from 182 seats in the state, gave the BJP a lead in over a 102 seats while the Congress was following with 77. The simple majority mark in the 182-member Assembly is 92.
The Congress, however, appears to be on its way to improve its 2012 tally. "The way the Congress campaigned and the way Rahul Gandhi did bus trips, we put up a very nice campaign. Whatever the results, the country will see this as the Congress' victory," Gehlot said.
"Through the campaigning and manifesto, we have been successful in reflecting the feelings of the people of Gujarat and we believe we have been successful in that," he said.
To a question, Gehlot said the saffron party tried to turn the direction of the campaign by raising the 'son of the soil' issue. "The BJP tried to turn the campaign in another direction by its 'son of the soil' comments and saying that he (Modi) is a prime minister from Gujarat. We have given a very nice message to the people of Gujarat," he said.
He said it is not the culture of the Congress to make such comments. "Rahulji (Gandhi) had said that Congress people will not make such commments against the prime minister.
The manner in which the prime minister made comments against Manmohan Singhji, Soniaji and Rahulji, we did not want to respond to them in the same language," he said. -- PTI
Gehlot, the Congress election in-charge for Gujarat, said Gandhi ran a nice campaign in the home state of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Trends from 182 seats in the state, gave the BJP a lead in over a 102 seats while the Congress was following with 77. The simple majority mark in the 182-member Assembly is 92.
The Congress, however, appears to be on its way to improve its 2012 tally. "The way the Congress campaigned and the way Rahul Gandhi did bus trips, we put up a very nice campaign. Whatever the results, the country will see this as the Congress' victory," Gehlot said.
"Through the campaigning and manifesto, we have been successful in reflecting the feelings of the people of Gujarat and we believe we have been successful in that," he said.
To a question, Gehlot said the saffron party tried to turn the direction of the campaign by raising the 'son of the soil' issue. "The BJP tried to turn the campaign in another direction by its 'son of the soil' comments and saying that he (Modi) is a prime minister from Gujarat. We have given a very nice message to the people of Gujarat," he said.
He said it is not the culture of the Congress to make such comments. "Rahulji (Gandhi) had said that Congress people will not make such commments against the prime minister.
The manner in which the prime minister made comments against Manmohan Singhji, Soniaji and Rahulji, we did not want to respond to them in the same language," he said. -- PTI
11:41
Pritish Nandy @PritishNandy Perhaps it is time to now stop calling Rahul Gandhi a Pappu. He has been baptised by fire and looks good for the long run. #GujaratVerdict
11:31 When you're way short of Amit Shah's 150, but still likely to be a winner
In Delhi, party workers celebrate at the party's HQ, as trends indicate BJP's victory in both Gujarat & Himachal Pradesh.
11:30 When it's a good fight, but unlikely to be a win...
That's the almost empty Congress office in Ahmedabad as trends indicate BJP's victory in both Gujarat & Himachal Pradesh.
11:27 BJP chomps on fafda, dhokla as trends show twin win
In Madhya Pradesh, BJP celebrates at the party office in Bhopal as trends indicate BJP's victory in both Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh.
Trends so far:
Gujarat:
BJP 100 (past the halfway mark of 92, but well short of Amit Shah's prediction of 150 seats)
Congress 80
Others 2
Himachal
BJP: 44
Congress: 20
Others: 4
The elections for 182-seat Gujarat Assembly were held on December 9 and 14, after an acrimonious campaign, which was dominated by a face-off between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi.
The BJP has been in power in the state since 1995, winning consecutive elections in the home state of Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah.
In Himachal Pradesh, the BJP was ahead in 44seats while the ruling Congress is leading in 20 of the 68 seats.
Congress veteran and six-time Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh and his son Vikramaditya Singh are leading from Arki and Shimla(Rural) respectively, according to early trends.
Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani wins from Rajkot West.
Trends so far:
Gujarat:
BJP 100 (past the halfway mark of 92, but well short of Amit Shah's prediction of 150 seats)
Congress 80
Others 2
Himachal
BJP: 44
Congress: 20
Others: 4
The elections for 182-seat Gujarat Assembly were held on December 9 and 14, after an acrimonious campaign, which was dominated by a face-off between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi.
The BJP has been in power in the state since 1995, winning consecutive elections in the home state of Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah.
In Himachal Pradesh, the BJP was ahead in 44seats while the ruling Congress is leading in 20 of the 68 seats.
Congress veteran and six-time Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh and his son Vikramaditya Singh are leading from Arki and Shimla(Rural) respectively, according to early trends.
Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani wins from Rajkot West.
11:14 Poll results approval of Modi govt's policies: Rajnath Singh
With poll trends favouring the BJP in both Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today said the results were an approval of the Modi government's policies. He asserted that the BJP will form government in both states with big majority.
"We will get majority in both the states and form government," he told reporters. Asked if the results were an approval of the Modi government's policies, the former party president said, "Of course. It is an approval of the government."
His party colleague Prakash Javadekar echoed him. "Development is the mantra of today's polity. And therefore people are with Modiji," said the Union HRD minister. -- PTI
"We will get majority in both the states and form government," he told reporters. Asked if the results were an approval of the Modi government's policies, the former party president said, "Of course. It is an approval of the government."
His party colleague Prakash Javadekar echoed him. "Development is the mantra of today's polity. And therefore people are with Modiji," said the Union HRD minister. -- PTI
11:06 PM flashes victory sign
As the BJP is set to form win both Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat, PM Modi who held 34 campaigns in Gujarat, flashes a victory sign while entering Parliament today. It's the second day of the Winter Session of Parliament.
11:02
Omar Abdullah @OmarAbdullah I'm done with #Election2017. Gujarat hasn't been a disaster for the Congress & it hasn't been the emphatic victory the BJP wanted. Take from it what you will. Over & out!
10:58 How can a victory be a setback: Nalin Kohli
BJP spokesperson Nalin Kohli reacts to a question on NDTV that BJP president Amit Shah's claim of a 150-seat win in Gujarat is far off the mark and therefore was a setback.
"How can a victory be a setback? A setback is for one who has said they will form the government and has lost yet again, consistently. We are consistently winning," Kohli said.
Senior journalist Shekhar Gupta tells NDTV that this election is the opening up of elections considering that Narendra Modi is the first PM in India to be representative of a state. Gujarat.
"How can a victory be a setback? A setback is for one who has said they will form the government and has lost yet again, consistently. We are consistently winning," Kohli said.
Senior journalist Shekhar Gupta tells NDTV that this election is the opening up of elections considering that Narendra Modi is the first PM in India to be representative of a state. Gujarat.
10:50 Trends show BJP govts will be back in Guj, HP
Leads so far:
Gujarat:
BJP: 105
Congress: 76
Others:1
Himachal Pradesh
BJP: 42
Congress: 22
Others: 4
Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, who earlier trailed behind his Congress rival Indranil Rajyaguru after the counting of postal ballots, is now leading in Rajkot West seat. Among the other BJP candidates, Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel is leading over Congress candidate Jivabhai Patel by 3,000 votes in Mehsana. Congress leader Arjun Modhwadia, who was trailing in Porbandar, has surged ahead of state fisheries minister Babubhai Bokhiriya.
Gujarat:
BJP: 105
Congress: 76
Others:1
Himachal Pradesh
BJP: 42
Congress: 22
Others: 4
Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, who earlier trailed behind his Congress rival Indranil Rajyaguru after the counting of postal ballots, is now leading in Rajkot West seat. Among the other BJP candidates, Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel is leading over Congress candidate Jivabhai Patel by 3,000 votes in Mehsana. Congress leader Arjun Modhwadia, who was trailing in Porbandar, has surged ahead of state fisheries minister Babubhai Bokhiriya.
10:36
Omar Abdullah @OmarAbdullah Looks like it's all over but the shouting. #Elections2017
10:28 BJP: 39m, Cong: 23 in Himachal
The BJP is ahead in 39 seats while the ruling Congress is leading in 23 in Himachal Pradesh, over two hours into the counting of votes in the Assembly polls.
Congress veteran and six-time Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh and his son Vikramaditya Singh are leading from Arki and Shimla (Rural) respectively, according to early trends available for 67 of the 68 seats.
Independents are leading in two constituencies while the CPI(M) is ahead in one.
Main rivals BJP and Congress contested all the 68 seats at stake.
The hill state witnessed a record 75.28 per cent turnout. The Congress and the BJP had 36 and 26 seats respectively in the outgoing House. Himachal Pradesh has a tradition of change in government after every elections and going by the trend, this time it appears to be the turn of the BJP which is upbeat after the exit polls predicted a victory for the saffron party.
The BJP ousted the Congress in 1990 and the Congress avenged defeat in 1993. The BJP formed the government with the help of Himachal Vikas Congress in 1998 and the Congress was back in power in 2003. The BJP made a comeback in 2007. -- PTI
Image: Vikramaditya Singh, Himachal Pradesh CM Virbhadra Singh's son says he is sure Congress will be victorious and form government in Himachal. He is contesting from Shimla Rural.
Congress veteran and six-time Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh and his son Vikramaditya Singh are leading from Arki and Shimla (Rural) respectively, according to early trends available for 67 of the 68 seats.
Independents are leading in two constituencies while the CPI(M) is ahead in one.
Main rivals BJP and Congress contested all the 68 seats at stake.
The hill state witnessed a record 75.28 per cent turnout. The Congress and the BJP had 36 and 26 seats respectively in the outgoing House. Himachal Pradesh has a tradition of change in government after every elections and going by the trend, this time it appears to be the turn of the BJP which is upbeat after the exit polls predicted a victory for the saffron party.
The BJP ousted the Congress in 1990 and the Congress avenged defeat in 1993. The BJP formed the government with the help of Himachal Vikas Congress in 1998 and the Congress was back in power in 2003. The BJP made a comeback in 2007. -- PTI
Image: Vikramaditya Singh, Himachal Pradesh CM Virbhadra Singh's son says he is sure Congress will be victorious and form government in Himachal. He is contesting from Shimla Rural.
10:21 Leads: BJP crosses halfway mark in Gujarat, says EC
EC official trends for Gujarat Election 2017: BJP crosses halfway mark, takes lead on 94 seats, Congress ahead on 64. Remember these numbers are leads, not results.
92 seats is the halfway mark in the 182-seat Gujarat polls.
A total of 977 candidates were in the fray in the first phase of elections, out of which 57 were women candidates and over 2.22 lakh people took part in the election to decide their fate. While in the second phase, 851 candidates fought, out of which 69 women candidates contested.The voting in first phase of the Gujarat polls took place on 24,689 polling stations, while in the second phase, a total number of 25,558 polling stations were used.
92 seats is the halfway mark in the 182-seat Gujarat polls.
A total of 977 candidates were in the fray in the first phase of elections, out of which 57 were women candidates and over 2.22 lakh people took part in the election to decide their fate. While in the second phase, 851 candidates fought, out of which 69 women candidates contested.The voting in first phase of the Gujarat polls took place on 24,689 polling stations, while in the second phase, a total number of 25,558 polling stations were used.
10:04 Sensex tanks 867 pts on Gujarat election trend, crashing rupee
Stocks went into a tailspin right at the start today after early trend suggested that the BJP and the Congress are locked in a tight race to win Gujarat. The benchmark BSE Sensex tanked as much as 867 points to breach below the psychological 33,000-mark while the NSE Nifty plunged 258 points in the opening session within one hour of counting of votes for Gujarat as well as Himachal Pradesh.
The 30-share index crashed by 867.34 points, or 2.59 per cent, to 32,595.63, with all sectoral indices led by realty, IT, teck, power and and banking trading in the negative zone with losses of up to 1.74 per cent.
The gauge had rallied 409.93 points in the previous two sessions after exit polls predicted BJP's win in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh assembly polls. Also, the broader NSE Nifty was quoting sharply lower by 258.45 points, or 10,074.80. The rupee crashed 68 paise to trade at 64.72 against the dollar, which dampened sentiment further. -- PTI
The 30-share index crashed by 867.34 points, or 2.59 per cent, to 32,595.63, with all sectoral indices led by realty, IT, teck, power and and banking trading in the negative zone with losses of up to 1.74 per cent.
The gauge had rallied 409.93 points in the previous two sessions after exit polls predicted BJP's win in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh assembly polls. Also, the broader NSE Nifty was quoting sharply lower by 258.45 points, or 10,074.80. The rupee crashed 68 paise to trade at 64.72 against the dollar, which dampened sentiment further. -- PTI
10:02 Amit Shah's 150-seat win unlikely
BJP president Amit Shah had predicted a 150-seat win for the party in Gujarat. The state has 26 parliamentary constituencies and 182 assembly constituencies. The BJP had won 115 seats, while the Congress bagged 61 in 2012. the BJP now says that even if they don't end up with 150 seats, it's still a sixth straight win for the party in the state.
09:58
Subramanian Swamy @Swamy39 I put on record that 95+_ was predicted throughout to me by Nalapat and my daughter Suhasini. Foreigners: 80+_. Ram Mandir is the difference
09:55 CNN News18 calls Gujarat elections for BJP
Shobhaa De' @DeShobhaa A gigantic thappad has been delivered in Gujarat. Elections 2019 looking interesting suddenly !
Pritish Nandy @PritishNandy A closer fight than anyone predicted. A victory for our democracy. #GujaratVerdict
CNN-News18 calls Gujarat election results in favour of BJP. Saffron wave sweeps #BattleForGujarat. This is what their projection is: BJP: 103, Congress and Others: 75
These are the figures for Gujarat so far:
BJP: 98
Congress: 80
Others: 4
Pritish Nandy @PritishNandy A closer fight than anyone predicted. A victory for our democracy. #GujaratVerdict
CNN-News18 calls Gujarat election results in favour of BJP. Saffron wave sweeps #BattleForGujarat. This is what their projection is: BJP: 103, Congress and Others: 75
These are the figures for Gujarat so far:
BJP: 98
Congress: 80
Others: 4
09:47 Let the final results come: Congress on Gujarat
And this is what the Congress national general secretary says, sounding both cautious and calm.
"The mood of the people of Gujarat will lead the Congress to victory; can't comment much on initial trends; let the final results come," says state party in-charge Ashok Gehlot as counting continues in Gujarat.
"The mood of the people of Gujarat will lead the Congress to victory; can't comment much on initial trends; let the final results come," says state party in-charge Ashok Gehlot as counting continues in Gujarat.
09:43 BJP snatches back lead in Gujarat
Leads in Gujarat:
BJP: 93
Congress: 83
Others: 3
Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani leading by 1800 votes from Rajkot West. He was trailing earlier.
The elections for 182-seat Assembly were held on December 9 and 14, after an acrimonious campaign, which was dominated by a face-off between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi.
In the 2012 elections, the BJP had won 115 seats while the Congress emerged victorious on 61 seats. The BJP has been in power in the state since 1995, winning consecutive elections in the home state of Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah.
The main contestants from the BJP are Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani (Rajkot West), Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel (Mehsana) and state BJP unit president Jitu Vaghani (Bhavnagar West).
The main contenders from the Congress are Shaktisinh
Gohil (Mandvi), Arjun Modhvadia (Porbandar), Siddharth Patel (Dabhoi), and Paresh Dhanai (Amreli).
BJP senior leader and the party's national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya says its too early to decide which way Gujarat is headed.
BJP: 93
Congress: 83
Others: 3
Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani leading by 1800 votes from Rajkot West. He was trailing earlier.
The elections for 182-seat Assembly were held on December 9 and 14, after an acrimonious campaign, which was dominated by a face-off between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi.
In the 2012 elections, the BJP had won 115 seats while the Congress emerged victorious on 61 seats. The BJP has been in power in the state since 1995, winning consecutive elections in the home state of Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah.
The main contestants from the BJP are Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani (Rajkot West), Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel (Mehsana) and state BJP unit president Jitu Vaghani (Bhavnagar West).
The main contenders from the Congress are Shaktisinh
Gohil (Mandvi), Arjun Modhvadia (Porbandar), Siddharth Patel (Dabhoi), and Paresh Dhanai (Amreli).
BJP senior leader and the party's national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya says its too early to decide which way Gujarat is headed.
09:39 Congress lags in Himachal
Himachal CM Virbhadra Singh's son Vikramaditya leading by 1316 votes in Shimla Rural.
Figures (leads) in Himachal.
BJP 34
Congress 20
Others 1
Figures (leads) in Himachal.
BJP 34
Congress 20
Others 1
09:33
In Himachal: BJP's CM candidate Prem Kumar Dhumal trailing by 540 votes from Sujanpur
09:23
Sensex down 850 points after early trends failing to show a sweeping leads for the party in Gujarat.
09:22 Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani trails
Gujarat Chief Minister and BJP leader Vijay Rupani is trailing behind Congress candidate Indranil Rajyaguru from Rajkot West, as per the initial trends. Rajyaguru secured 1,258 votes while Rupani got 491 votes after the end of first round of counting, as per election officials at the counting centre. -- PTI
09:21 Congress ahead in Gujarat, BJP leads in Himachal
Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani trailing by 800 votes from Rajkot West.
Leads and trails so far:
Gujarat:
Gujarat
BJP: 80
Congress 85
Others: 2
Himachal
BJP: 25
Cong: 18
Others: 1
EC official trends for Himachal Pradesh Elections: BJP now leading on 20 seats, Congress on 9, Others 2
EC Official Trends for Gujarat: BJP: 17 seats, Congress leads in 18 seats.
Image: In Uttar Pradesh supporters perform a havan in Varanasi as counting of votes continues for Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh assembly elections.
Leads and trails so far:
Gujarat:
Gujarat
BJP: 80
Congress 85
Others: 2
Himachal
BJP: 25
Cong: 18
Others: 1
EC official trends for Himachal Pradesh Elections: BJP now leading on 20 seats, Congress on 9, Others 2
EC Official Trends for Gujarat: BJP: 17 seats, Congress leads in 18 seats.
Image: In Uttar Pradesh supporters perform a havan in Varanasi as counting of votes continues for Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh assembly elections.
09:11
India TV and News X put Congress ahead of BJP in Gujarat.
09:08
Congress' Shaktisinh Gohil trailing by 1300 votes from Kutch's Mandvi.
09:05
Omar Abdullah @OmarAbdullah Anyway you look at it after 41 rallies by the PM in Gujarat anything less than a sweeping victory will be a cause for much concern for the BJP.
09:03 Himachal, Gujarat CMs ahead in their seats
Candidates leading and trailing in Gujarat and Himachal from figures available so far.
Gujarat
Shaktisinh Gohil, Congress, trails
Jignesh Mevani, INDC, leads
Alpesh Thakore, Congess, leads
Jaynarayan Vyas, BJP, leads
Nitin Patel, BJP, trails
Pradipsinh Jadeja, BJP, leads
Bhupendrasinh Chudasama, BJP, leads
Indranil Rajguru, Congress, trails
Vijay Rupani, BJP, leads
Arjun Modhvadia, Congress, trails
Paresh Dhanani, Congress, leads
Jitu Vaghani, BJP, leads
Himachal Pradesh
Anil Sharma, BJP, leads
Satpal Singh Satti, BJP, leads
Virbhadra Singh, Congress, leads
Congress leader and six-time Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh is fighting against former chief minister Prem Kumar Dhumal to be the next head of the state.
In 2012, the Congress Party defeated the BJP and won an outright majority by winning 36 of the 68 seats under the leadership of Virbhadra Singh thus proving most of the pollsters and exit polls wrong, which had predicted a photo-finish.
The polling had recorded 74.61 per cent voter turnout, the highest-ever in the state. However, the exit polls had suggested a change of political guard in favour of the Bharatiya Janata Party in the state.
Counting of votes started this morning for the high-stakes Gujarat Assembly polls, considered a prestige battle for Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his home state and a litmus test for new Congress president Rahul Gandhi.
While the BJP is seeking a sixth straight term in office, the Congress is aiming to stage a comeback in power after being in the opposition for over two decades.
The main contestants from the BJP are Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani (Rajkot West), Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel (Mehsana) and state BJP unit president Jitu Vaghani (Bhavnagar West).
The main contenders from the Congress are Shaktisinh Gohil (Mandvi), Arjun Modhvadia (Porbandar), Siddharth Patel (Dabhoi), and Paresh Dhanai (Amreli). OBC leader Alpesh Thakor, who joined the Congress ahead of polls is fighting from Radhanpur seat, while Dalit leader Jignesh Mewani is contesting from Vadgam.
Gujarat
Shaktisinh Gohil, Congress, trails
Jignesh Mevani, INDC, leads
Alpesh Thakore, Congess, leads
Jaynarayan Vyas, BJP, leads
Nitin Patel, BJP, trails
Pradipsinh Jadeja, BJP, leads
Bhupendrasinh Chudasama, BJP, leads
Indranil Rajguru, Congress, trails
Vijay Rupani, BJP, leads
Arjun Modhvadia, Congress, trails
Paresh Dhanani, Congress, leads
Jitu Vaghani, BJP, leads
Himachal Pradesh
Anil Sharma, BJP, leads
Satpal Singh Satti, BJP, leads
Virbhadra Singh, Congress, leads
Congress leader and six-time Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh is fighting against former chief minister Prem Kumar Dhumal to be the next head of the state.
In 2012, the Congress Party defeated the BJP and won an outright majority by winning 36 of the 68 seats under the leadership of Virbhadra Singh thus proving most of the pollsters and exit polls wrong, which had predicted a photo-finish.
The polling had recorded 74.61 per cent voter turnout, the highest-ever in the state. However, the exit polls had suggested a change of political guard in favour of the Bharatiya Janata Party in the state.
Counting of votes started this morning for the high-stakes Gujarat Assembly polls, considered a prestige battle for Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his home state and a litmus test for new Congress president Rahul Gandhi.
While the BJP is seeking a sixth straight term in office, the Congress is aiming to stage a comeback in power after being in the opposition for over two decades.
The main contestants from the BJP are Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani (Rajkot West), Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel (Mehsana) and state BJP unit president Jitu Vaghani (Bhavnagar West).
The main contenders from the Congress are Shaktisinh Gohil (Mandvi), Arjun Modhvadia (Porbandar), Siddharth Patel (Dabhoi), and Paresh Dhanai (Amreli). OBC leader Alpesh Thakor, who joined the Congress ahead of polls is fighting from Radhanpur seat, while Dalit leader Jignesh Mewani is contesting from Vadgam.
08:46 Here's a roundup of how Himachal voted
Counting of votes underway for the Himachal Pradesh Assembly elections where traditional rivals BJP and Congress have contested all 68 seats. The fate of 337 candidates including Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh and his predecessor Prem Kumar Dhumal will be known by the end of counting.
The hill state witnessed a record 75.28 per cent turnout.
Adequate security arrangements have been made for counting which started simultaneously in all 68 constituencies at 42 counting centres.
Corruption was the main focus of the BJP campaign with the party training its guns at Chief Minister Singh, while the Congress hit out at the BJP over the issue of GST and demonetisation.
The BSP contested 42 seats followed by the CPI(M) 14, the Swabhiman party and the Lok Gathbandhan Party six each and the CPI-3. Out of 67 sitting MLAs, 60 MLAS, nine cabinet ministers, HPCC president Sukhvinder Singh Sukkhu, state BJP chief, Satpal Singh Satti, Deputy Speaker, Jagat Singh Negi and eight Chief Parliamentary Secretaries (CPS) contested the poll along with a dozen former ministers.
Himachal has a tradition of change in government after every elections and going by the trend, this time it is the turn of the BJP which is upbeat after exit poll results.
There are 25 Congress, 28 BJP and four independent MLAs in the outgoing house while one seat was lying vacant after death of former minister Karan Singh from Banjar. -- PTI
Image: EVMs opened at a counting centre in Shimla's Kasumpati as counting of votes continues.
The hill state witnessed a record 75.28 per cent turnout.
Adequate security arrangements have been made for counting which started simultaneously in all 68 constituencies at 42 counting centres.
Corruption was the main focus of the BJP campaign with the party training its guns at Chief Minister Singh, while the Congress hit out at the BJP over the issue of GST and demonetisation.
The BSP contested 42 seats followed by the CPI(M) 14, the Swabhiman party and the Lok Gathbandhan Party six each and the CPI-3. Out of 67 sitting MLAs, 60 MLAS, nine cabinet ministers, HPCC president Sukhvinder Singh Sukkhu, state BJP chief, Satpal Singh Satti, Deputy Speaker, Jagat Singh Negi and eight Chief Parliamentary Secretaries (CPS) contested the poll along with a dozen former ministers.
Himachal has a tradition of change in government after every elections and going by the trend, this time it is the turn of the BJP which is upbeat after exit poll results.
There are 25 Congress, 28 BJP and four independent MLAs in the outgoing house while one seat was lying vacant after death of former minister Karan Singh from Banjar. -- PTI
Image: EVMs opened at a counting centre in Shimla's Kasumpati as counting of votes continues.
08:40
Leads:
Gujarat:
BJP: 73
Cong: 45
Others: 1
Himachal Pradesh:
BJP: 9
Cong: 7
Others: 2
Gujarat:
BJP: 73
Cong: 45
Others: 1
Himachal Pradesh:
BJP: 9
Cong: 7
Others: 2
08:38 Counting of postal ballots underway
Counting of postal ballots underway in Gujarat at a centre in Vadodara. Read the EC guidelines on postal ballots here.
08:33 There can be no tampering with EVMs: CEC
Chief Election Commissioner AK Joti (pictured) on EVM tampering: "Questions being raised about EVMs have already been answered by us in the media. VVPATs were there in every polling station in Gujarat, which enabled voters to see whom they voted for, so issues being raised aren't right. I assure that EVMS cannot be tampered with. All arrangements have been made in Gujarat by the Chief Electoral officer of the state, at all places in counting halls for the state assembly elections. I assure you that there can be no tampering with the EVMs."
08:29 Buntings up in BJP's Gandhinagar office
Gandhinagar: The BJP office decorated ahead of counting of votes. Security men have been deployed outside the counting centres to avoid any untoward situations.The final results are going to be out at 5 pm and will be posted on Election Commission's website, although trends by 12 pm will make it clear which party is coming to power.
08:24 Counting of postal ballots begin in Shimla
Counting of postal ballots underway at a counting center in Shimla's Kasumpti. Himachal Pradesh, which voted for its next government in November, will today get to know who won the Assembly election race. The counting for the single phase Assembly elections begin at 8 am and results are expected to come out by afternoon.
08:21 BJP leads in Gujarat, Himachal
Counting of votes started this morning for the high-stakes Gujarat Assembly polls, considered a prestige battle for Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his home state and a litmus test for new Congress president Rahul Gandhi.
While the BJP is seeking a sixth straight term in office, the Congress is aiming to stage a comeback in power after being in the opposition for over two decades.
In Gujarat, the BJP leads in 15 seats, the Congress in 4. In Himachal Pradesh, the BJP is at 2, the Congress at 1.
The counting of votes will be held at 37 centres across the state's 33 districts, amidst tight security. For the 182 seats up for grabs, a total of 1,828 candidates contested the elections which were held in two phases on December 9 and 14.
The voting was held following an acrimonious campaign where both the main political parties indulged in no-holds- barred attacks on each others.
The main contestants from the BJP are Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani (Rajkot West), Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel (Mehsana) and state BJP unit president Jitu Vaghani (Bhavnagar West). The main contenders from the Congress are Shaktisinh Gohil (Mandvi), Arjun Modhvadia (Porbandar), Siddharth Patel (Dabhoi), and Paresh Dhanai (Amreli). OBC leader Alpesh Thakor, who joined the Congress ahead of polls is fighting from Radhanpur seat, while Dalit leader Jignesh Mewani is contesting from Vadgam.
An average 68.41 per cent polling was recorded in the polls. The total voter turnout this time saw a dip of 2.91 per cent, as compared to the 2012 polls when 71.32 per cent polling was registered. In the 2012 polls, the BJP had won 115 seats and the Congress 61 seats, while others and independents had bagged six seats. -- PTI
While the BJP is seeking a sixth straight term in office, the Congress is aiming to stage a comeback in power after being in the opposition for over two decades.
In Gujarat, the BJP leads in 15 seats, the Congress in 4. In Himachal Pradesh, the BJP is at 2, the Congress at 1.
The counting of votes will be held at 37 centres across the state's 33 districts, amidst tight security. For the 182 seats up for grabs, a total of 1,828 candidates contested the elections which were held in two phases on December 9 and 14.
The voting was held following an acrimonious campaign where both the main political parties indulged in no-holds- barred attacks on each others.
The main contestants from the BJP are Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani (Rajkot West), Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel (Mehsana) and state BJP unit president Jitu Vaghani (Bhavnagar West). The main contenders from the Congress are Shaktisinh Gohil (Mandvi), Arjun Modhvadia (Porbandar), Siddharth Patel (Dabhoi), and Paresh Dhanai (Amreli). OBC leader Alpesh Thakor, who joined the Congress ahead of polls is fighting from Radhanpur seat, while Dalit leader Jignesh Mewani is contesting from Vadgam.
An average 68.41 per cent polling was recorded in the polls. The total voter turnout this time saw a dip of 2.91 per cent, as compared to the 2012 polls when 71.32 per cent polling was registered. In the 2012 polls, the BJP had won 115 seats and the Congress 61 seats, while others and independents had bagged six seats. -- PTI
08:14
Officials at a counting centre set up in Ahmedabad's Gujarat College open ballot boxes as counting of votes begins for the Assembly polls.
08:13
Visuals from a strong room in Ahmedabad. Ballot boxes brought in for counting which began at 8 am.
08:07 Will it be Modi or Rahul raj? Counting begins
Counting of votes has begun for the Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh polls.
While the Bharatiya Janata Party is seeking a sixth straight term in office in Gujarat, the Congress is aiming to stage a comeback in power after being in the opposition for over two decades.
Meanwhile, in Himachal Pradesh, candidates including Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh and his predecessor Prem Kumar Dhumal are awaiting their future as traditional rivals BJP and Congress have contested all 68 seats.
Himachal has a tradition of change in government after every elections and going by the trend, this time it is the turn of the BJP which is upbeat after exit poll results.
Exit polls predicted that the BJP will be looking at victories in both Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh.
08:00 Praying for a victory
Supporters perform havan outside Congress president Rahul Gandhi's residence in Delhi ahead of counting of votes.
Photograph: ANI/Twitter
07:52 EC withdraws notice to Rahul over TV interviews, says reviewing poll law
The Election Commission has withdrawn its notice to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his TV interviews during Gujarat polls, and said it will revisit a provision in the election law under which it was issued.
The poll body had on December 13 issued the show cause notice to Rahul Gandhi for "prima facie" violating the provisions under the election law and the model code by giving interviews to TV channels.
While withdrawing the notice, it told the Congress and the BJP, "The Commission is of the considered view that due to multi-fold expansion of digital and electronic media, the extant Model Code of Conduct, Section 126 of the RP Act, 1951, and other related provisions require revisiting to cater to the requirement and challenges of the present and emerging
situations."
The poll body also decided to set up a panel to suggest amendments to a provision in the election law barring campaigning 48 hours ahead of polling, following complaints that it has failed to keep pace with information technology.
The order comes in the wake of controversies over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's FICCI meeting, Rahul Gandhi's TV interviews and the release of BJP manifesto in Gujarat -- all after campaigning had ended in the state.
-- PTI
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