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Sat, 11 March 2017
Punjab win Congress' second best performance in state
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23:51 Punjab win Congress' second best performance in state
The Congress' return to power marks its second best performance in the assembly elections in Punjab since its reorganisation in 1966 when Haryana was carved out as a separate state.
The Congress has won 77 seats in the 117-member state assembly after projecting state unit President Amarinder Singh as its chief ministerial nominee.
The party was one short of 78 -- figure required for two-thirds majority in the assembly.
The party's best ever performance was in 1992 when it won 87 seats in the elections which were boycotted by main Akali Dal in the wake of threats from radical Khalistani elements.
The opponents of the elections then called for the boycott saying the Centre had failed to take steps to meet longstanding Sikh demands, including the release of detainees, greater political and economic autonomy and more water for irrigating its drought-prone regions.
The 1992 elections were held amid a huge deployment of security personnel and the Punjab police.
Incidentally, a splinter Akali group led by Amarinder had contested the 1992 elections fielding 38 candidates, but only three could win.
The three included Amarinder who was declared elected 'uncontested' from the Samana assembly constituency in Patiala district. The other SAD winners were Ranjit Singh (Khadoor Sahib) and Inderjit Singh (Zira).
The SAD faction had fielded 58 candidates out of which three won and 38 forfeited their security deposit.
But this time the Congress has put up its second best performance with Amarinder in the lead. He won from Patiala Urban seat, but lost to Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal from the Lambi constituency.
The three other 60-plus seats performances of the Congress have been in 1972 (66 seats), 1980 (63) and 2002 (62) when Amarinder first became chief minister.
Congress won 40-plus seats thrice in 1967 (48 seats), 2012 (46) and 2007 (44).
The party won 38 seats in 1969, 32 in 1985 and its lowest 17 in 1977.
Vote-wise the best performance of Congress was in 1980 when it got 45.19 per cent vote share, followed by 43.83 per cent in 1992, 42.84 per cent in 1972, 40.90 per cent in 2007 and 40.09 per cent in 2012.
Its worst performance was in 1997 when it got a vote share of 26.38 per cent. -- PTI
IMAGE: Punjab Congress President Capt Amrinder Singh being greeted by party workers after the party's win in the assembly polls in Patiala on Saturday. Photograph: PTI Photo
The Congress has won 77 seats in the 117-member state assembly after projecting state unit President Amarinder Singh as its chief ministerial nominee.
The party was one short of 78 -- figure required for two-thirds majority in the assembly.
The party's best ever performance was in 1992 when it won 87 seats in the elections which were boycotted by main Akali Dal in the wake of threats from radical Khalistani elements.
The opponents of the elections then called for the boycott saying the Centre had failed to take steps to meet longstanding Sikh demands, including the release of detainees, greater political and economic autonomy and more water for irrigating its drought-prone regions.
The 1992 elections were held amid a huge deployment of security personnel and the Punjab police.
Incidentally, a splinter Akali group led by Amarinder had contested the 1992 elections fielding 38 candidates, but only three could win.
The three included Amarinder who was declared elected 'uncontested' from the Samana assembly constituency in Patiala district. The other SAD winners were Ranjit Singh (Khadoor Sahib) and Inderjit Singh (Zira).
The SAD faction had fielded 58 candidates out of which three won and 38 forfeited their security deposit.
But this time the Congress has put up its second best performance with Amarinder in the lead. He won from Patiala Urban seat, but lost to Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal from the Lambi constituency.
The three other 60-plus seats performances of the Congress have been in 1972 (66 seats), 1980 (63) and 2002 (62) when Amarinder first became chief minister.
Congress won 40-plus seats thrice in 1967 (48 seats), 2012 (46) and 2007 (44).
The party won 38 seats in 1969, 32 in 1985 and its lowest 17 in 1977.
Vote-wise the best performance of Congress was in 1980 when it got 45.19 per cent vote share, followed by 43.83 per cent in 1992, 42.84 per cent in 1972, 40.90 per cent in 2007 and 40.09 per cent in 2012.
Its worst performance was in 1997 when it got a vote share of 26.38 per cent. -- PTI
IMAGE: Punjab Congress President Capt Amrinder Singh being greeted by party workers after the party's win in the assembly polls in Patiala on Saturday. Photograph: PTI Photo
23:02 Failure to form grand alliance led to rout of non-BJP parties in UP: Nitish
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today attributed the Bharatiya Janata Party's massive victory in Uttar Pradesh to the failure of opposition parties in forging a grand coalition besides strong protest against demonetisation.
Kumar, the Janata Dal-United president, also saw a major section of backward classes lending support to the saffron party, while other parties failed to mobilise them.
The 'failure' of non-BJP parties to forge a Bihar-like mega alliance in Uttar Pradesh was a factor responsible for their defeat, Kumar said as he congratulated the BJP for victory in UP and Uttarakhand assembly polls.
Post the 2014 blitzkrieg of the BJP in general elections, the JD-U, the Rashtriya Janata Dal and the Congress had come together to form a 'mahagathbandhan' for 2015 Bihar assembly polls. The grand alliance had defeated the BJP in the state.
Kumar, in a tweet on poll outcome, also pointed to non-BJP parties going too far in protesting scrapping of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 bank notes.
'There was no need to make such a strong protest against demonetisation,' he said.
'Demonetisation generated a sense of satisfaction among poor as they saw it as a hit on rich... many parties ignored this fact,' Kumar, who had supported scrapping of high value notes but criticised the management of the campaign, said.
Kumar, who had kept JD-U out of Uttar Pradesh elections, also referred to failure of non-BJP parties to mobilise large chunk of backward classes towards them.
The Bihar Chief Minister also congratulated the Congress for the big win in Punjab and for emerging as the single largest party in Goa and Manipur after declaration of results.
Kumar, the Janata Dal-United president, also saw a major section of backward classes lending support to the saffron party, while other parties failed to mobilise them.
The 'failure' of non-BJP parties to forge a Bihar-like mega alliance in Uttar Pradesh was a factor responsible for their defeat, Kumar said as he congratulated the BJP for victory in UP and Uttarakhand assembly polls.
Post the 2014 blitzkrieg of the BJP in general elections, the JD-U, the Rashtriya Janata Dal and the Congress had come together to form a 'mahagathbandhan' for 2015 Bihar assembly polls. The grand alliance had defeated the BJP in the state.
Kumar, in a tweet on poll outcome, also pointed to non-BJP parties going too far in protesting scrapping of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 bank notes.
'There was no need to make such a strong protest against demonetisation,' he said.
'Demonetisation generated a sense of satisfaction among poor as they saw it as a hit on rich... many parties ignored this fact,' Kumar, who had supported scrapping of high value notes but criticised the management of the campaign, said.
Kumar, who had kept JD-U out of Uttar Pradesh elections, also referred to failure of non-BJP parties to mobilise large chunk of backward classes towards them.
The Bihar Chief Minister also congratulated the Congress for the big win in Punjab and for emerging as the single largest party in Goa and Manipur after declaration of results.
22:25 Long live democracy: PM on Rahul's congratulatory message
After the Bharatiya Janata Party secured an astounding victory in the UP polls, Rahul Gandhi took to Twitter and congratulated Prime Minister and the BJP.
'I congratulate Shri Narendra Modi and the BJP on their victory in Uttar Pradesh & Uttarakhand,' Rahul tweeted.
And, Prime Minister Modi replied in a subtle yet witty way, quite representative of his persona at election rallies.
'Thank you. Long live democracy!' he tweeted, while quoting Rahul's aforementioned tweet.
The political banter between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi had escalated to different levels during the election campaign.
Politically-crucial Uttar Pradesh became a turf of well churned-out statements by the Congress and the BJP, which often mocked the grand old party's alliance with the Samajwadi Party. -- ANI
'I congratulate Shri Narendra Modi and the BJP on their victory in Uttar Pradesh & Uttarakhand,' Rahul tweeted.
And, Prime Minister Modi replied in a subtle yet witty way, quite representative of his persona at election rallies.
'Thank you. Long live democracy!' he tweeted, while quoting Rahul's aforementioned tweet.
The political banter between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi had escalated to different levels during the election campaign.
Politically-crucial Uttar Pradesh became a turf of well churned-out statements by the Congress and the BJP, which often mocked the grand old party's alliance with the Samajwadi Party. -- ANI
22:25 Long live democracy: PM on Rahul's congratulatory message
After the Bharatiya Janata Party secured an astounding victory in the UP polls, Rahul Gandhi took to Twitter and congratulated Prime Minister and the BJP.
'I congratulate Shri Narendra Modi and the BJP on their victory in Uttar Pradesh & Uttarakhand,' Rahul tweeted.
And, Prime Minister Modi replied in a subtle yet witty way, quite representative of his persona at election rallies.
'Thank you. Long live democracy!' he tweeted, while quoting Rahul's aforementioned tweet.
The political banter between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi had escalated to different levels during the election campaign.
Politically-crucial Uttar Pradesh became a turf of well churned-out statements by the Congress and the BJP, which often mocked the grand old party's alliance with the Samajwadi Party. -- ANI
'I congratulate Shri Narendra Modi and the BJP on their victory in Uttar Pradesh & Uttarakhand,' Rahul tweeted.
And, Prime Minister Modi replied in a subtle yet witty way, quite representative of his persona at election rallies.
'Thank you. Long live democracy!' he tweeted, while quoting Rahul's aforementioned tweet.
The political banter between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi had escalated to different levels during the election campaign.
Politically-crucial Uttar Pradesh became a turf of well churned-out statements by the Congress and the BJP, which often mocked the grand old party's alliance with the Samajwadi Party. -- ANI
21:36 Terrorists attack CRPF camp in Kashmir, flee after retaliation
Terrorists on Saturday night attacked a Central Reserve Police Force camp in South Kashmir's Pulwama district but fled after the security forces retaliated.
There were no casualties in the incident, police said.
The terrorists fired upon the CRPF camp of 182 battalion at Tahab at around 8 pm, a police official said.
A nearby police team rushed to assist the CRPF personnel to repulse the attack and the terrorists fled from the spot, he said.
Image for representation only.
There were no casualties in the incident, police said.
The terrorists fired upon the CRPF camp of 182 battalion at Tahab at around 8 pm, a police official said.
A nearby police team rushed to assist the CRPF personnel to repulse the attack and the terrorists fled from the spot, he said.
Image for representation only.
21:33 Lalu supports Mayawati's allegation of EVM tampering in UP
Rashtriya Janata Dal president Lalu Prasad today supported Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati's allegations that electronic voting machines were tampered in Uttar Pradesh polls and demanded a probe by the Election Commission.
"What Mayawatiji is saying should definitely be probed by the Election Commission, Prasad told reporters.
"It's known that Gujarat is the hub of EVM manufacturing, hence tampering of EVMs cannot be ruled out.
"We had complained to the EC about this in the past and also held demonstrations on the issue. The EC had assured that mock polls would be conducted in every booth before the actual polling in which representatives of all parties could check whether the EVMs were working properly or not," the RJD chief said in support of demand for probe.
"I don't know whether mock polls were held in UP or not," Prasad, who had campaigned in favour of Samajwadi Party said.
He demanded that the EVMs in which votes were counted today should be kept safely and the EC should get it probed whether there were any technical defects in them or not.
On the poll result in UP, Prasad said, "The Congress-SP combine failed to communicate properly to the people and the BJP managed to lure them with false promises."
"What Mayawatiji is saying should definitely be probed by the Election Commission, Prasad told reporters.
"It's known that Gujarat is the hub of EVM manufacturing, hence tampering of EVMs cannot be ruled out.
"We had complained to the EC about this in the past and also held demonstrations on the issue. The EC had assured that mock polls would be conducted in every booth before the actual polling in which representatives of all parties could check whether the EVMs were working properly or not," the RJD chief said in support of demand for probe.
"I don't know whether mock polls were held in UP or not," Prasad, who had campaigned in favour of Samajwadi Party said.
He demanded that the EVMs in which votes were counted today should be kept safely and the EC should get it probed whether there were any technical defects in them or not.
On the poll result in UP, Prasad said, "The Congress-SP combine failed to communicate properly to the people and the BJP managed to lure them with false promises."
21:03 Instead of Twitter, focus on Kashmir: Congress' jibe at Omar
The Congress today took a swipe at Omar Abdullah for his remarks against the opposition, saying the National Conference leader should focus on his state and resolve its people's issues instead.
The former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister had suggested the opposition should forget 2019 and start planning for 2024 Lok Sabha polls as no leader had the pan-India acceptability to take on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
"Will be good if state leaders instead of commenting on national politics, focus more on their state and its people. Omar Abdullah is our friend, we respect him but he needs to focus on National Conference and matters of J&K," Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said.
He said the way National Conference lost to PDP, it has not been able to form roots again there till today.
"The Congress will help it, we had run government together. It will be better if regional leaders, instead of passing comments on national politics, work hard in their respective regions and pick the public pulse there.
"Instead of Twitter, it will be better for them if they pay attention towards understanding problems of the people in their regions. It will give them pleasant experiences in future polls," he said.
The Congress and NC have been alliance partners in Jammu and Kashmir and ran the government there for five years before PDP and BJP got together to form their coalition government.
20:32
India summons Pakistan deputy high commissioner to lodge strong protest over continuing ceasefire violations by Pakistani side at the Line of Control.
20:04 Will 'wipe out' drug menace in 4 weeks: Amarinder Singh
Congress leader Amarinder Singh promised to wipe out the drug menace from the state in four weeks after his party forms a government in the state.
Singh, who is likely to become the chief minister as the Congress got absolute majority, also said in the first cabinet meeting 100 key decisions would be taken.
Addressing a crowded press conference in Chandigarh, Singh, who turned 75 today, reiterated his poll promise of tackling drug menace saying it will be among his immediate priorities.
He said that every single person found guilty of destroying the lives of tens of thousands of youth would be brought to book.
The use of drugs, by the youths, was a major issue in the Punjab elections.
Singh said that he would also get probed the sacrilege incidents that had happened in parts of the state recently.
"A meeting of the Punjab Congress legislature party has been called tomorrow," Singh, who was the chief minister of the state during 2007-2012, told reporters.
He hit out at the SAD, saying it had brought the "state on its knees". He also took a swipe at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, saying he was like a "summer storm which came and has gone."
"The AAP bubble has burst with the outright rejection by the Punjab voters," he said, adding that the alleged links of AAP with extremist had also worked against the party.
19:27 Rahul better wake up & smell the coffee: Smriti Irani
BJP's Smriti Irani once again launched an attack against the Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi saying that the results today was a sign of things to come in 2019.
"In 2019, it's definitely going to be a loss for Rahul Gandhi, after today's result he better wake up & smell the coffee," she said.
Smriti has been railing against Rahul ever since she stood for elections in 2012 from the Gandhi bastion -- Amethi. She lost that election to Rahul.
19:08 No merit found in allegation: EC responds to Mayawati
Responding to Mayawati's allegation of EVM tampering, the EC has responded saying, "No merit found in allegation and prayers made in letter are not legally tenable."
Earlier in the day, Mayawati called for re-elections. Questioning the EVMs credibility she said these results are hard to swallow.
"Voting machines tampered with. Press any button, the vote goes to the BJP. The BJP winning even in Muslim areas. The Muslim vote has gone to the BJP. Can anyone digest this? Clearly voting machines have been tampered with."
18:56 Indias colours after saffron surge
So what does India look like with the latest saffron surge in 2017? Milan Vaishnav, Senior Fellow at Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, tweets a map, which we reproduce alongside.
18:41 'Want to thank 'Modi Kranti' & EVM 'chamatkar': Now, Harish Rawat alleges fraud
In the backdrop of the victory of the Bharatiya Janata Party in Uttarakhand, outgoing Congress Chief Minister Harish Rawat on Saturday hinted at possible tampering of Electronic Voting Machines to tweak the poll outcome.
Addressing a press conference here, Rawat said: "I want to thank 'Modi Kranti' (revolution) and EVM 'chamatkar' (miracle)."
When reporters asked if he was hinting at tampering of EVMs, he said he did not say anything like this. "You know everything. I am not confusing you. I leave it to you to understand."
He added that the Election Commission of India must explain why the poll process was stretched over such a long duration.
18:27 After drubbing in polls, Akhilesh Yadav resigns as UP CM
Following his party's poor performance in the Uttar Pradesh assembly elections, Akhilesh Yadav resigned as the chief minister.
His resignation was accepted by Governor Ram Naik.
Speaking earlier at a press conference, Akhilesh Yadav said, "Results of UP elections are in. We are happy to accept it. We accept the verdict of the people. I thank all the people of UP who gave me five years to prove myself. I also want to thank party workers. We have worked hard for UP's progress, but I am sure the next govt will do a better job.
"Alliance with Congress will continue. We made the right decision by allying with the Congress."
18:16 Nation has utmost faith in PM Modi's leadership: Venkaiah Naidu
With trends showing a massive victory for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Uttar Pradesh, Union Information and Broadcasting Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu on Saturday said that the results have reflected the mood of the nation, which is in favour of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
"The results of the five states reflect the mood of the nation. Right from the assembly by-elections, Parliament by-elections and also panchayat and municipal elections across the country in four to five months, the mood of the nation is 'Let's go with Modi' because Modi means making of developed India," Naidu told ANI.
He added that the people have rejected the campaigns made by the Opposition parties against the November 8 demonetisation drive.
"They have shown their utmost faith in the leadership of Modi. This is the impression of the people that has been fortified by the elections now particularly in the Hindi heartland because Uttar Pradesh is mostly agrarian, rural and there is a lot of migration and poverty also," he asserted. He added that the Opposition should accept the verdict and be constructive in the future.
"The results of the five states reflect the mood of the nation. Right from the assembly by-elections, Parliament by-elections and also panchayat and municipal elections across the country in four to five months, the mood of the nation is 'Let's go with Modi' because Modi means making of developed India," Naidu told ANI.
He added that the people have rejected the campaigns made by the Opposition parties against the November 8 demonetisation drive.
"They have shown their utmost faith in the leadership of Modi. This is the impression of the people that has been fortified by the elections now particularly in the Hindi heartland because Uttar Pradesh is mostly agrarian, rural and there is a lot of migration and poverty also," he asserted. He added that the Opposition should accept the verdict and be constructive in the future.
18:09
Soldier Chandu Chavan, who had inadvertently crossed into Pak soil post surgical strikes last September, returns home in Maharashtra's Dhule.
18:02 Dangerous! Left's verdict on BJP wins
The BJP sweep in Uttar Pradesh has "dangerous" portend for the country as it would encourage "divisive and harmful" Hindutva politics, the Left parties said today. The parties attributed the saffron party's success to "communal" appeal and called for unity of the Left and other secular forces to meet the challenge posed by the NDA major.
"While acknowledging the massive mandate BJP has received, it also has implications that are dangerous for the country as it will encourage the brand of Hindutva politics, which is divisive and harmful," CPI(M) Politburo said in a statement. It alleged that the saffron party's victory in Uttar Pradesh was accomplished "by a mix of rank communal appeal and by putting together a wide ranging caste coalition."
"It was this combination that propelled Narendra Modi and the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections in the state and that momentum has been maintained," it said.
"While acknowledging the massive mandate BJP has received, it also has implications that are dangerous for the country as it will encourage the brand of Hindutva politics, which is divisive and harmful," CPI(M) Politburo said in a statement. It alleged that the saffron party's victory in Uttar Pradesh was accomplished "by a mix of rank communal appeal and by putting together a wide ranging caste coalition."
"It was this combination that propelled Narendra Modi and the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections in the state and that momentum has been maintained," it said.
18:00 A spate of resignations
Goa Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar resigns.
UP CM Akhilesh Yadav submits his resignation to Governor Ram Naik.
Uttarakhand CM Harish Rawat resigns
Punjab CM Parkash Singh Badal will resign tomorrow.
Manipur results: Cong: 26 (wins and leads), BJP 21, Others: 11. Congress likely to retain hold in the state.
UP CM Akhilesh Yadav submits his resignation to Governor Ram Naik.
Uttarakhand CM Harish Rawat resigns
Punjab CM Parkash Singh Badal will resign tomorrow.
Manipur results: Cong: 26 (wins and leads), BJP 21, Others: 11. Congress likely to retain hold in the state.
17:44 Modi's country-wide appeal established: Chidambaram
Election results have established Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the most dominant person with a country-wide appeal, says Congress leader P Chidambaram.
17:29 Not Expressway, may be UP wanted bullet trains: Akhilesh's winning speech
Akhilesh Yadav, the outgoing CM of UP addressed a press conference. This is what he said.
" Results of UP elections are in. We are happy to accept it. We accept the verdict of the people. I thank all the people of UP who gave me five years to prove myself. I also want to thank party workers. We have worked hard for UP's progress, but I am sure the next govt will do a better job.
"Alliance with Congress will continue. We made the right decision by allying with the Congress.
"We waived off Rs 1600 cr farmer loans. We want to see if the money collected after demonetisation goes to the poor.
"Samjhane se vote nahin milta hai, behekane se milta hai. Ho sakta hai logon ko Expressway na pasand aaya ho aur Bullet Train ke liye vote diya ho. At times poor don't know what they want. At times misleading campaigns get votes. People came to my rallies in huge numbers. Did they just come and take pictures? (Laughs)
"I will first assess the reasons for the defeat and then take responsibility. "
" Results of UP elections are in. We are happy to accept it. We accept the verdict of the people. I thank all the people of UP who gave me five years to prove myself. I also want to thank party workers. We have worked hard for UP's progress, but I am sure the next govt will do a better job.
"Alliance with Congress will continue. We made the right decision by allying with the Congress.
"We waived off Rs 1600 cr farmer loans. We want to see if the money collected after demonetisation goes to the poor.
"Samjhane se vote nahin milta hai, behekane se milta hai. Ho sakta hai logon ko Expressway na pasand aaya ho aur Bullet Train ke liye vote diya ho. At times poor don't know what they want. At times misleading campaigns get votes. People came to my rallies in huge numbers. Did they just come and take pictures? (Laughs)
"I will first assess the reasons for the defeat and then take responsibility. "
17:03 Rahul congratulates PM Modi
Office of RG @OfficeOfRG I congratulate Shri. Narendra Modi and the BJP on their victory in Uttar Pradesh & Uttarakhand.
Narendra Modi @narendramodi Thank you. Long live democracy!
Narendra Modi @narendramodi Thank you. Long live democracy!
16:54 16 years of struggle, 90 votes: Irom Sharmila to quit politics
Manipur's 'Iron Lady', Irom Sharmila, said she campaigned enough and didn't get results and will be quitting politics. Irom Sharmila took on Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh but lost with a record margin, polling just 90 votes. The three-time Chief Minister won comfortable with 10,740 votes. In fact, there were more people who pressed the button for NOTA on this seat 143 than those who voted for her.
The rights activist who went on a fast for 16 long years for repealing AFSPA, faced the anger of the people after he stopped her fast last year. She had then said she would take the political route to continue her agitation by running for office.
On the eve of counting in Manipur, Sharmila said if defeated, she would try again -- in the 2019 national election. "I do not feel much affected by the result because people are yet to be given a chance... Everybody knows muscle and money power are openly used," she had said.
The rights activist who went on a fast for 16 long years for repealing AFSPA, faced the anger of the people after he stopped her fast last year. She had then said she would take the political route to continue her agitation by running for office.
On the eve of counting in Manipur, Sharmila said if defeated, she would try again -- in the 2019 national election. "I do not feel much affected by the result because people are yet to be given a chance... Everybody knows muscle and money power are openly used," she had said.
16:49
CM Akhilesh Yadav will meet UP Governor Ram Naik at 6 pm today.
16:41
Mulayam SinghYadav's daughter-in-law Aparna Yadav loses to BJP's Rita Bahujuna Joshi by a margin of 33,796 votes in the Lucknow Cantt seat.
16:24 Overjoyed at the unprecedented support: PM Modi
PM Narendra Modi's first reaction to the party's spectacular show in the state polls. The PM tweets:
"I am overjoyed that BJP has received unprecedented support from all sections of society. Huge support from the youth is gladdening. I salute the hardwork of BJP Karyakartas. They have tirelessly worked hard at the grassroots level & won the confidence of the people. Congratulations to @AmitShah, party office bearers & state units for their exemplary work in taking the party to new heights. Every moment of our time, everything we do is for welfare & wellbeing of the people of India. We believe in the power of 125 crore Indians."
"I am overjoyed that BJP has received unprecedented support from all sections of society. Huge support from the youth is gladdening. I salute the hardwork of BJP Karyakartas. They have tirelessly worked hard at the grassroots level & won the confidence of the people. Congratulations to @AmitShah, party office bearers & state units for their exemplary work in taking the party to new heights. Every moment of our time, everything we do is for welfare & wellbeing of the people of India. We believe in the power of 125 crore Indians."
16:19
I accept the debacle. May be there was some error in my leadership that resulted in this: Harish Rawat resigns
16:09
Omar Abdullah @abdullah_omar Perhaps when he gets a mandate greater than Rajiv Gandhi's in 1984 we can begin to discuss this boastful claim.
That was in response to BJP president Amit Shah's comment at the just-concluded presser where he said: "Today, everybody has to admit, that PM Narendra Modi is the most popular leader since Independence."
That was in response to BJP president Amit Shah's comment at the just-concluded presser where he said: "Today, everybody has to admit, that PM Narendra Modi is the most popular leader since Independence."
16:04 Modi strongest leader since Independence: Amit Shah
BJP President and the man who engineered the party's mega win in UP, addressing the press conference thanks party workers and voters for the win. Highlights...
"I thank voters and party workers in all states. Results are in favour of the BJP. We will give politics a new direction. BJP has got nearly 3/4th majority in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand - possibly the largest since independence. This has been a historic mandate. This is the win of PM Modi's leadership. We have to accept the fact that Narendra Modi is the most popular leader of the country. People have supported Modi's version. Modi's pro-poor win earned us a victory. The electorate have given a befitting reply to our naysayers. UP result has rejected caste politics, dynasty politics and appeasement politics. It's beginning of era of politics of performance. his is a victory of the people. Will form government in Manipur and Goa too. This victory is an answer to those who levelled personal allegations against PM Modi & BJP. PM will be felicitated at 6 pm tomorrow at party HQ. PM @narendramodi has emerged as the tallest leader in the country and even BJP's political rivals have to admit it.| I can understand the state of mind of #Mayawati ji right now. Hence,I don't want to comment on it (EVM tampering). Move past Hindu-Muslim, a voter is a voter; politics of development should take place. We accept the defeat in Punjab. PM @narendrmodi has already congratulated Capt Amarinder for victory. It's the end of communal politics. Nationalisation of banks was a big move. It was the PM who made it possible for the poor to have accounts in those banks."
"I thank voters and party workers in all states. Results are in favour of the BJP. We will give politics a new direction. BJP has got nearly 3/4th majority in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand - possibly the largest since independence. This has been a historic mandate. This is the win of PM Modi's leadership. We have to accept the fact that Narendra Modi is the most popular leader of the country. People have supported Modi's version. Modi's pro-poor win earned us a victory. The electorate have given a befitting reply to our naysayers. UP result has rejected caste politics, dynasty politics and appeasement politics. It's beginning of era of politics of performance. his is a victory of the people. Will form government in Manipur and Goa too. This victory is an answer to those who levelled personal allegations against PM Modi & BJP. PM will be felicitated at 6 pm tomorrow at party HQ. PM @narendramodi has emerged as the tallest leader in the country and even BJP's political rivals have to admit it.| I can understand the state of mind of #Mayawati ji right now. Hence,I don't want to comment on it (EVM tampering). Move past Hindu-Muslim, a voter is a voter; politics of development should take place. We accept the defeat in Punjab. PM @narendrmodi has already congratulated Capt Amarinder for victory. It's the end of communal politics. Nationalisation of banks was a big move. It was the PM who made it possible for the poor to have accounts in those banks."
15:52
Important takeaway from Amit Shah's presser: PM Modi will be at the BJP headquarters tomorrow at 6 pm, where he will be felicitated. The BJP Parliamentary board to meet after that to decide on Chief Ministers.
15:34
Uttarakhand: Harish Rawat tenders resignation from the post of CM
15:33
Just in: BJP president Amit Shah addressing a press conference at the party HQ in Delhi.
15:32 Congress wins majority in Punjab
Congress set to form government in Punjab with a clear majority of 63 seats of the 78 seats it is leading in so far of the 117 constituencies. AAP a distant second with 20, SAD with 14, BJP 3 and Others 2.
Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh, who is the party's chief ministerial face, thanked people of the state for their overwhelming support. The Congress legislature party will meet tomorrow to elect its leader, he said.
Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh, who is the party's chief ministerial face, thanked people of the state for their overwhelming support. The Congress legislature party will meet tomorrow to elect its leader, he said.
15:22 In Rahul's Amethi, Congress scores a big ZERO
In Rahul Gandhi's Amethi constituency: 4-0 for BJP.
Jagdishpur BJP
Salon BJP
Amethi BJP
Tiloi BJP
Gauriganj SP
The BJP headed for a stunning victory today in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, trampling a fragmented opposition that had hoped the demonetisation exercise would have chipped away at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's popularity. The BJP was also locked in a close contest in Goa and Manipur with the Congress, which won the consolation prize of Punjab where it will form the government.
Modi's party was now set to return to power in Uttar Pradesh after a 14-year gap during which regional parties such as the SP and BSP had held sway.
"The prime minister has clearly established himself as the predominant leader in India," said Aarti Jerath, a political analyst, on NDTV.
BJP president Amit Shah, who crafted and conducted the election strategy in UP, credited Modi and his policies for the victory.
"This is the victory of the corruption-free rule and pro-poor polices under the leadership" of Modi, he tweeted. "BJP has reached new heights in Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh and changed the political picture of the country," Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said amid scenes of jubilation at party offices in UP.
Party members danced and distributed sweets on streets and BJP offices. Women gathered in groups to watch results on TV danced as the results came in. One party leader said Holi, which will be celebrated on Sunday and Monday, has come a day early. Terming the BJP victory as "shocking" and "difficult to swallow", BSP leader Mayawati hinted at vote fraud in the elections that were spread over seven phases during the last two months in the five states. She provided no evidence for her allegation, and it is unlikely to be taken seriously. Her party is expected to finish third.
After five hours of counting, the BJP won or led in 310 seats in UP. Along with its allies Apna Dal (Soneylal Patel)and Suheldev Bhartiya Samaj Party (SBSP), the party will have a comfortable two-thirds majority in the 403-member legislative assembly.
Image: Celebrations and more celebrations in UP after the spectacular win in UP. Pic: Sandeep Pal.
Jagdishpur BJP
Salon BJP
Amethi BJP
Tiloi BJP
Gauriganj SP
The BJP headed for a stunning victory today in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, trampling a fragmented opposition that had hoped the demonetisation exercise would have chipped away at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's popularity. The BJP was also locked in a close contest in Goa and Manipur with the Congress, which won the consolation prize of Punjab where it will form the government.
Modi's party was now set to return to power in Uttar Pradesh after a 14-year gap during which regional parties such as the SP and BSP had held sway.
"The prime minister has clearly established himself as the predominant leader in India," said Aarti Jerath, a political analyst, on NDTV.
BJP president Amit Shah, who crafted and conducted the election strategy in UP, credited Modi and his policies for the victory.
"This is the victory of the corruption-free rule and pro-poor polices under the leadership" of Modi, he tweeted. "BJP has reached new heights in Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh and changed the political picture of the country," Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said amid scenes of jubilation at party offices in UP.
Party members danced and distributed sweets on streets and BJP offices. Women gathered in groups to watch results on TV danced as the results came in. One party leader said Holi, which will be celebrated on Sunday and Monday, has come a day early. Terming the BJP victory as "shocking" and "difficult to swallow", BSP leader Mayawati hinted at vote fraud in the elections that were spread over seven phases during the last two months in the five states. She provided no evidence for her allegation, and it is unlikely to be taken seriously. Her party is expected to finish third.
After five hours of counting, the BJP won or led in 310 seats in UP. Along with its allies Apna Dal (Soneylal Patel)and Suheldev Bhartiya Samaj Party (SBSP), the party will have a comfortable two-thirds majority in the 403-member legislative assembly.
Image: Celebrations and more celebrations in UP after the spectacular win in UP. Pic: Sandeep Pal.
15:10
Celebrations at BJP's Delhi headquarters; senior leaders including Amit Shah and Arun Jaitley present inside the election results.
15:07 Nazarwala in Rediff' on Jan 18: BJP will score triple century
Writing on January 18, 2017, Nazarwala had this to say: 'The Modi wave may help the BJP score a triple century; its vanvaas in UP shall end before Holi.'
Of course, this is the not first time he has been bang-on in predicting the electoral outcome in Uttar Pradesh. In 2007, he had called Mayawati's unexpected win way before the votes were counted.
And in 2012, he forecast her rout at the hustings and the return of Mulayam Singh (who chose to anoint his son Akhilesh as the CM). This is what Nazarwala had to say about the coming BJP tsunami in UP. Read on
Image: BJP president Amit Shah, the man who engineered the party's spectacular win in UP celebrates with party workers.
Of course, this is the not first time he has been bang-on in predicting the electoral outcome in Uttar Pradesh. In 2007, he had called Mayawati's unexpected win way before the votes were counted.
And in 2012, he forecast her rout at the hustings and the return of Mulayam Singh (who chose to anoint his son Akhilesh as the CM). This is what Nazarwala had to say about the coming BJP tsunami in UP. Read on
Image: BJP president Amit Shah, the man who engineered the party's spectacular win in UP celebrates with party workers.
14:48 And a hooray for Prashant Kishor
Gracious in victory. Prashant Kishor's team I-PAC, which worked towards the Punjab win, tweets:
"Congratulations to @capt_amarinder and the entire Punjab Congress for a stupendous win! To all AAP volunteers and grassroots workers, you were one of the toughest competitors we faced! @ArvindKejriwal @AAPPunjab2017
"Congratulations to @capt_amarinder and the entire Punjab Congress for a stupendous win! To all AAP volunteers and grassroots workers, you were one of the toughest competitors we faced! @ArvindKejriwal @AAPPunjab2017
14:44 Not everyone is Rahul Gandhi who goes missing from his constituency: Smriti
The PM is Lok Sabha MP from Varanasi. PM has worked for Varanasi. Not everybody is a Rahul Gandhi who goes missing from his constituency, BJP's Smriti Irani responds to a question on why the PM camped in his constituency, Varanasi, for three days. Responding to Mayawati's EVM tampering charge, "Angoor khatte hain." On demonetisation: "Put your hand on your heart and ask if any other leader could have had the courage to go with demonetisation. Nobody but PM Modi could do it," she said.
Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal to resign tomorrow. "I will meet the Punjab Governor tomorrow and submit my resignation," 89-year-old Badal, who has been the Chief Minister of Punjab five times, said. "Drug problem not an issue..was propaganda and creation of media," he said.
Meanwhile, PM Modi wishes birthday boy Captain Amarinder Singh who won Punjab for the Congress: "Spoke to @capt_amarinder & congratulated him on the win in Punjab. Also wished him a happy birthday & prayed for his long & healthy life."
Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal to resign tomorrow. "I will meet the Punjab Governor tomorrow and submit my resignation," 89-year-old Badal, who has been the Chief Minister of Punjab five times, said. "Drug problem not an issue..was propaganda and creation of media," he said.
Meanwhile, PM Modi wishes birthday boy Captain Amarinder Singh who won Punjab for the Congress: "Spoke to @capt_amarinder & congratulated him on the win in Punjab. Also wished him a happy birthday & prayed for his long & healthy life."
14:28
BJP MP Babul Supriyo's advice to Mayawati: Take a chill pill
Image: BJP workers celebrate their win in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand outside the party office in Lucknow. Pic: Sandeep Pal.
Image: BJP workers celebrate their win in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand outside the party office in Lucknow. Pic: Sandeep Pal.
14:14 Shivpal wins, party loses and knives are being sharpened
"I thank the people of Jaswant Nagar for my victory. Rest we accept people's mandate," says Shivpal Yadav, SP.
Shivpal, Akhilesh Yadav's uncle and his biggest opponent, fought on the SP ticket from Jaswant Nagar and has campaigned only for the candidates endorsed by party supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav.
Shivpal, Akhilesh Yadav's uncle and his biggest opponent, fought on the SP ticket from Jaswant Nagar and has campaigned only for the candidates endorsed by party supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav.
14:05
Uttar Pradesh electoral map 2017
14:04
Spot the difference: Uttar Pradesh electoral map 2012. The image was tweeted by Rupa Subramanya.
14:02 Press any button, vote goes to BJP: Maya screams fraud, calls for re-polls
BSP chief Mayawati calls for re-elections. Questioning the EVMs credibility she says these results are hard to swallow.
"Voting machines tampered with. Press any button, the vote goes to the BJP.
The BJP winning even in Muslim areas. The Muslim vote has gone to the BJP. Can anyone digest this? Clearly voting machines have been tampered with.
"In 2014 too there were such fears. Press any button but the vote went to BJP. In BMC election too such questions were raised.
"This is a open challenge to the BJP and the Prime Minister that if you are really honest ask the Election Commission to hold re-elections using the ballot paper. And if they do not agree, it will prove right that the machines were indeed tampered with. People have lost faith in EVMs. BJP has murdered democracy. The Muslims are saying that they did not vote for the BJP, so how is it that the BJP won even in Muslim areas?
"Results of the Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand assembly polls must be stopped immediately, this is my request to Election Commission. With help of foreign expert team, EVMs must be investigated. Elections should be held again with the old ballot paper voting in UP."
The BSP has been decimated, leading in just 16 seats, no confirmed wins.
"Voting machines tampered with. Press any button, the vote goes to the BJP.
The BJP winning even in Muslim areas. The Muslim vote has gone to the BJP. Can anyone digest this? Clearly voting machines have been tampered with.
"In 2014 too there were such fears. Press any button but the vote went to BJP. In BMC election too such questions were raised.
"This is a open challenge to the BJP and the Prime Minister that if you are really honest ask the Election Commission to hold re-elections using the ballot paper. And if they do not agree, it will prove right that the machines were indeed tampered with. People have lost faith in EVMs. BJP has murdered democracy. The Muslims are saying that they did not vote for the BJP, so how is it that the BJP won even in Muslim areas?
"Results of the Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand assembly polls must be stopped immediately, this is my request to Election Commission. With help of foreign expert team, EVMs must be investigated. Elections should be held again with the old ballot paper voting in UP."
The BSP has been decimated, leading in just 16 seats, no confirmed wins.
13:40
Uttarakhand CM Harish Rawat may put in his papers at 3 pm today.
13:32 PM to arrive at BJP HQ in Delhi at 4 pm, BJP sweeps Varanasi
And here's what's happening in the PM's constituency, Varanasi.
The BJP and its allies appear poised to sweep all the five assembly segments which together form Narendra Modi's Lok Sabha constituency as well as the three adjoining ones falling in the district.
As per trends available till noon, the BJP is leading by a comfortable margin in all the three urban seats it had won in 2012 - Varanasi Cantt, Varanasi South and Varanasi North. Modi had camped in his constituency for three days, held roadshows and addressed several rallies to reach out to voters in the district.
The party is also heading towards victory in the predominantly rural Rohaniya, a seat where the party had polled less than 10 per cent votes five years ago.
The party candidate Saurabh Shrivastava has established a comfortable lead of over 37,000 votes. In Varanasi South, the BJP's Dr Neelkanth Tiwari leads with over 43000 votes.
The BJP's allies Apna Dal (Soney Lal) and Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party too have respectively established handsome leads in Sevapuri, which falls under Varanasi, and Ajagara, which comes under Chandauli.
Image: BJP supporters celebrate the poll results in Lucknow, UP. Photograph: Adnan Abidi/Reuters
The BJP and its allies appear poised to sweep all the five assembly segments which together form Narendra Modi's Lok Sabha constituency as well as the three adjoining ones falling in the district.
As per trends available till noon, the BJP is leading by a comfortable margin in all the three urban seats it had won in 2012 - Varanasi Cantt, Varanasi South and Varanasi North. Modi had camped in his constituency for three days, held roadshows and addressed several rallies to reach out to voters in the district.
The party is also heading towards victory in the predominantly rural Rohaniya, a seat where the party had polled less than 10 per cent votes five years ago.
The party candidate Saurabh Shrivastava has established a comfortable lead of over 37,000 votes. In Varanasi South, the BJP's Dr Neelkanth Tiwari leads with over 43000 votes.
The BJP's allies Apna Dal (Soney Lal) and Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party too have respectively established handsome leads in Sevapuri, which falls under Varanasi, and Ajagara, which comes under Chandauli.
Image: BJP supporters celebrate the poll results in Lucknow, UP. Photograph: Adnan Abidi/Reuters
13:22 Modi-Amit Shah win, says Smriti Irani
More reactions from the BJP leadership
Union textile minister Smriti Irani (caught in a particularly pensive moment) on the UP win: This is a win of Modi-ji's leadership and Amit Shah-ji's hard work. It has broken all barriers of religion, caste, creed etc.
BJP president and the architect of the party's win in UP Amit Shah: It is a victory of BJP's ideology and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's pro-poor and development policies.
Union minister Uma Bharti to NDTV: Three years ago, I never thought this was possible... It was six months ago that I started believing we would get over 300 seats. Polarisation on religion and caste is not possible any more. Rahul and Akhilesh could not do it. The Ram temple issue is not a divisive issue. Modiji will find a solution that everyone will like.
Union textile minister Smriti Irani (caught in a particularly pensive moment) on the UP win: This is a win of Modi-ji's leadership and Amit Shah-ji's hard work. It has broken all barriers of religion, caste, creed etc.
BJP president and the architect of the party's win in UP Amit Shah: It is a victory of BJP's ideology and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's pro-poor and development policies.
Union minister Uma Bharti to NDTV: Three years ago, I never thought this was possible... It was six months ago that I started believing we would get over 300 seats. Polarisation on religion and caste is not possible any more. Rahul and Akhilesh could not do it. The Ram temple issue is not a divisive issue. Modiji will find a solution that everyone will like.
13:12 Votebank politics won UP for BJP, sniffs Congress
The Congress Party on Saturday attempted to downplay its dismal show in
Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, saying the people have kept votebank
politics above development.
Justifying his party's alliance with the Samajwadi Party, Congress leader Rajeev Shukla said the formula of association did not fail.
"Akhilesh Yadav brought about development in the state. In order to strengthen that development, the Congress allied with the Samajwadi Party. The people of Uttar Pradesh today have kept votebank politics above development," Shukla told ANI.
Ending speculations that the victory in Uttar Pradesh would boost the BJP's prospects in the next general elections, Shukla asserted that the electoral scene would be different in 2019.
"Just like they did nothing at the Centre for three years, they are going to do nothing in UP as well. The people will realise their mistakes then," he said.
While trying to cover the defeat in Uttar Pradesh by marking success in Punjab, another Congress leader Pawan Kumar Bansal said they were sure that they would win owing to the SAD-BJP government's failure in the state.
"We were aware in UP that we have less numbers. If you say defeat, it is in Uttarakhand. We are neck-to-neck in Goa and are leading in Manipur," Bansal told ANI.
Justifying his party's alliance with the Samajwadi Party, Congress leader Rajeev Shukla said the formula of association did not fail.
"Akhilesh Yadav brought about development in the state. In order to strengthen that development, the Congress allied with the Samajwadi Party. The people of Uttar Pradesh today have kept votebank politics above development," Shukla told ANI.
Ending speculations that the victory in Uttar Pradesh would boost the BJP's prospects in the next general elections, Shukla asserted that the electoral scene would be different in 2019.
"Just like they did nothing at the Centre for three years, they are going to do nothing in UP as well. The people will realise their mistakes then," he said.
While trying to cover the defeat in Uttar Pradesh by marking success in Punjab, another Congress leader Pawan Kumar Bansal said they were sure that they would win owing to the SAD-BJP government's failure in the state.
"We were aware in UP that we have less numbers. If you say defeat, it is in Uttarakhand. We are neck-to-neck in Goa and are leading in Manipur," Bansal told ANI.
12:45 Kejriwal lost because his intent was not right: Sidhu
Navjot Singh Sidhu, who must be patting himself on the back for choosing the Congress over the AAP, talks about the Congress's performance in Punjab:
We have to leave behind the mentality of revenge and work for Punjab's development.
We have to fight to bring back the lost pride, the lost wealth of Punjab
You need good intent to win. Arvind Kejriwal lost because his intent wasn't right. He wanted everything for himself.
I want to promise Sonia Gandhi that we will present Punjab as an example
And no sacrifice will be too large for it
(On being asked what role would he want?) What's the hurry, brother?
Cong: 75 AAP: 23 SAD: 14 BJP 03
We have to leave behind the mentality of revenge and work for Punjab's development.
We have to fight to bring back the lost pride, the lost wealth of Punjab
You need good intent to win. Arvind Kejriwal lost because his intent wasn't right. He wanted everything for himself.
I want to promise Sonia Gandhi that we will present Punjab as an example
And no sacrifice will be too large for it
(On being asked what role would he want?) What's the hurry, brother?
Cong: 75 AAP: 23 SAD: 14 BJP 03
12:38 Amarinder Singh: Kejriwal is a summer storm, he came and he's gone
Captain Amarinder Singh on Congress's big performance in Punjab: "Would like to thank Congress workers, from seniors to juniors. Thanks goes to people of Punjab as well. I was saying this from the start, that the Punjabi voter is enlightened enough to make the right choice Arvind Kejriwal's a summer storm - he came and he's gone. The people of Punjab have given me a birthday gift."
12:35 BJP storms into Gandhi stronghold Amethi
In the Gandhi bastion, Amethi, the BJP's Garima Singh wipes out the Congress.
Leads: Garima Singh 25491, Gaytri Prasad (Samajwadi Party) 21046, Ram Ji (Bahujan Samaj Party) 8601.
Leads so far: BJP 297, SP 58, BSP 19, Cong 08, Others 22.
Most of the Exit Polls conducted by private agencies gave a clear mandate to the BJP, whereas some predicted hung assembly in Uttar Pradesh. But the BJP, in what was unexpected even for the party, has made a clean sweep crossing the halfway mark to from the government in UP.
Leads: Garima Singh 25491, Gaytri Prasad (Samajwadi Party) 21046, Ram Ji (Bahujan Samaj Party) 8601.
Leads so far: BJP 297, SP 58, BSP 19, Cong 08, Others 22.
Most of the Exit Polls conducted by private agencies gave a clear mandate to the BJP, whereas some predicted hung assembly in Uttar Pradesh. But the BJP, in what was unexpected even for the party, has made a clean sweep crossing the halfway mark to from the government in UP.
12:21
And in other news, Kailash Satyarthi's Nobel citation recovered from jungles. Details awaited.
12:13 O Captain, My Captain! Congress set to former government in Punjab
The opposition Congress was racing ahead in 75 seats in the 117-member Punjab Assembly, followed by the AAP in 23 seats, the SAD in 14 seats and the BJP in three seats, Others 2, as per early trends.
Congress is seeking to return to power after a hiatus of 10 years. Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal was leading by 60,000 plus votes in his pocket borough Lambi Assembly constituency. From Lambi, 89-year-old Badal is locked in a keen contest with Congress chief Capt Amarinder Singh and AAP's Jarnail Singh, among others.
Capt Singh, who turned 75 today, was leading from Patiala by over 47,000 votes against his nearest rival AAP's Balbir Singh. Former Army Chief General J J Singh (retd) was at the number three spot.
Punjab Deputy Chief Minister and SAD President Sukhbir Singh Badal was leading over his nearest rival Ravneet Singh Bittu of Congress by a margin of 6,907 votes from Jalalabad constituency, as per early trends. Congress leader Sunil Jakhar was trailing by 3,084 votes as against his nearest rival BJP's Arun Narang from Abohar segment.
Navjot Singh Sidhu of Congress was leading by a margin of 39,000 votes in Amritsar-East segment. Initial trends, now available for all the seats in the Assembly, also have two candidates of Bains brothers Lok Insaf Party ahead, who fought in an alliance with the AAP, leading.
From Jalandhar Cantt, Congress candidate and former Indian hockey captain Pargat Singh was leading by over 36,000 votes over his nearest rival AAP's Harkrishan Singh Walia.
Congress is seeking to return to power after a hiatus of 10 years. Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal was leading by 60,000 plus votes in his pocket borough Lambi Assembly constituency. From Lambi, 89-year-old Badal is locked in a keen contest with Congress chief Capt Amarinder Singh and AAP's Jarnail Singh, among others.
Capt Singh, who turned 75 today, was leading from Patiala by over 47,000 votes against his nearest rival AAP's Balbir Singh. Former Army Chief General J J Singh (retd) was at the number three spot.
Punjab Deputy Chief Minister and SAD President Sukhbir Singh Badal was leading over his nearest rival Ravneet Singh Bittu of Congress by a margin of 6,907 votes from Jalalabad constituency, as per early trends. Congress leader Sunil Jakhar was trailing by 3,084 votes as against his nearest rival BJP's Arun Narang from Abohar segment.
Navjot Singh Sidhu of Congress was leading by a margin of 39,000 votes in Amritsar-East segment. Initial trends, now available for all the seats in the Assembly, also have two candidates of Bains brothers Lok Insaf Party ahead, who fought in an alliance with the AAP, leading.
From Jalandhar Cantt, Congress candidate and former Indian hockey captain Pargat Singh was leading by over 36,000 votes over his nearest rival AAP's Harkrishan Singh Walia.
12:00 Rahul Gandhi cannot step down: Congress
The elephant in the room: Digivjaya Singh on the Rahul Gandhi factor. The senior Congress leader tells NDTV: Rahul Gandhi cannot step down, Nehru-Gandhi family biggest binding factor for Congress.
11:58 BJP's Wall of Victory
BJP leader Vijay Goel puts up a Wall of Victory outside his Delhi residence. "Wall of Victory" outside my residence 10, Ashoka Rd. Do join & write your message for PM #Modi & we will share it with him #ElectionResults."
11:55 Who will be UP CM? Amit Shah will pull rabbit from hat, says Chandan Mitra
A saffron holi likely in Uttar Pradesh as trends put BJP in power with a massive lead. Samajwadi Party-Congress experiment fails to deliver the political punch in the heartland state.
Union minister Piyush Goyal speaking to ANI says, " The nation is standing with PM Modi. This is the victory of people of UP and Uttarakhand.
Ravi Shankar Prasadsaysm the result is a tectonic shift in the country's politics.
Jitender Singh MoS, PMO: The youth of the country has come of age. People have only voted for development in Uttar Pradesh, they have moved ahead of caste, religious lines. The most important contribution of Modi phenomenon is that it has enabled voters to cast votes for development, going beyond castes, creeds, religions. It has helped them get rid of feudal mindset."
BJP's Chandan Mitra on who will be UP Chief Minister tells NDTV: "Except the top leaders, no one knows who will be UP chief minister. Amit Shah will pull out a rabbit from the hat," he says.
Union minister Sanjiv Balyan said there was division on communal lines in UP. "The election was fought on issues such as law and order, development. The new generation understood the importance of bringing in the BJP," he said.
BJP MP from Gorakhpur Adityanath said the SP-Congress alliance and the BSP have been totally rejected by the people in UP. People want development without bias. They want security which the BJP can only provide," he said.
Trends so far in the state: BJP 293 SP 16 BSP 17 CONG 11 OTHERS 22
Image: BJP party workers celebrate the decimation of the Congress, SP, BSP and their landslide win in UP.
Union minister Piyush Goyal speaking to ANI says, " The nation is standing with PM Modi. This is the victory of people of UP and Uttarakhand.
Ravi Shankar Prasadsaysm the result is a tectonic shift in the country's politics.
Jitender Singh MoS, PMO: The youth of the country has come of age. People have only voted for development in Uttar Pradesh, they have moved ahead of caste, religious lines. The most important contribution of Modi phenomenon is that it has enabled voters to cast votes for development, going beyond castes, creeds, religions. It has helped them get rid of feudal mindset."
BJP's Chandan Mitra on who will be UP Chief Minister tells NDTV: "Except the top leaders, no one knows who will be UP chief minister. Amit Shah will pull out a rabbit from the hat," he says.
Union minister Sanjiv Balyan said there was division on communal lines in UP. "The election was fought on issues such as law and order, development. The new generation understood the importance of bringing in the BJP," he said.
BJP MP from Gorakhpur Adityanath said the SP-Congress alliance and the BSP have been totally rejected by the people in UP. People want development without bias. They want security which the BJP can only provide," he said.
Trends so far in the state: BJP 293 SP 16 BSP 17 CONG 11 OTHERS 22
Image: BJP party workers celebrate the decimation of the Congress, SP, BSP and their landslide win in UP.
11:51
Lata Mangeshkar: Aadarniya @narendramodi ji , @AmitShah ji aur BJP ke sabhi karyakartao'n ko is shaandaar jeet ki bahut badhaai.
11:50 Irom Sharmila gets just 51 votes
Clearly, activism is one thing, politics quite another.
In Manipur, aspiring chief minister and rights activist Irom Sharmila got just 51 votes. She contested from the Thoubal constituency against three time CM Okram Ibobi Singh. Sharmila said yesterday that muscle, money power is being openly used by parties. "Not affected much by result, people yet to change, everybody knows muscle & money power were openly used," she said.
In Manipur, aspiring chief minister and rights activist Irom Sharmila got just 51 votes. She contested from the Thoubal constituency against three time CM Okram Ibobi Singh. Sharmila said yesterday that muscle, money power is being openly used by parties. "Not affected much by result, people yet to change, everybody knows muscle & money power were openly used," she said.
11:49
Former Goa CM and Congress leader Pratapsingh Rane wins from Poriem constituency.
11:36
Goa CM Laxmikant Parsekar loses.
11:22
AAP CM candidate for Goa Elvis Gomes currently at third position in Cuncolim, Congress first, Independent second.
11:20
Blast from the past: A 1991 photograph of Narendra Modi with then party president Dr. Murli Manohar Joshi during the party's Ekta
Yatra.
11:18
BJP MP Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore tells news agency ANI: The Congress hand is blackened by joining hands with sinners. Now, the public will never accept them.
11:12 UP a tsunami! At this rate we might as well forget 2019: Omar
Former J-K CM Omar Abdullah, prolific on Twitter, let's it rip:
"How the hell did almost all the experts/analysts miss this wave in UP? It's a tsunami not a ripple in a small pond. Criticising the PM will only take us so far. The voter needs to know there is an option available to them that has a clear positive road map. I've said this before & I'll say it again the voter needs to be given an alternative agenda that is based on what we will do better. Punjab, Goa & Manipur would certainly suggest that the BJP isn't unbeatable but strategy needs to shift from criticism to positive alternate. At this rate we might as well forget 2019 & start planning/hoping for 2024.
"In a nutshell there is no leader today with a pan India acceptability who can take on Modi & the BJP in 2019. And the knives are out for @yadavakhilesh."
"How the hell did almost all the experts/analysts miss this wave in UP? It's a tsunami not a ripple in a small pond. Criticising the PM will only take us so far. The voter needs to know there is an option available to them that has a clear positive road map. I've said this before & I'll say it again the voter needs to be given an alternative agenda that is based on what we will do better. Punjab, Goa & Manipur would certainly suggest that the BJP isn't unbeatable but strategy needs to shift from criticism to positive alternate. At this rate we might as well forget 2019 & start planning/hoping for 2024.
"In a nutshell there is no leader today with a pan India acceptability who can take on Modi & the BJP in 2019. And the knives are out for @yadavakhilesh."
11:09
BJP leading in Uttar Pradesh: Party workers celebrate in Kanpur.
10:56 UP chants 'Har Har Modi' as BJP heads for landslide win
The Bharatiya Janata Party appears to be heading towards a landslide victory in Uttar Pradesh as initial trends suggest the party will likely win over 288 seats. Chants of 'Har Har Modi' outside party offices across UP.
As soon as counting of postal votes began, the party stole an early march over its rivals from the words go. The party's leads in Bareilly and Awadh show the kind of progress it has made since the last assembly elections.
The SP-Congress alliance is currently a distant second, closely followed by the BSP in third.
Speaking to news agency ANI, party MP Yogi Adityanath says the people of Uttar Pradesh rejected the SP-Congress combine. He calls it a "vote for development'. BJP state chief Keshav Prasad Maurya says UP will help reelect PM Modi in 2019. When asked about the SP, Maurya said Akhilesh and his uncles ruined the state.
Meanwhile, Home Minister Rajnath Singh's son Pankaj Singh is leading for the BJP from Noida. Swami Prasad Maurya, who left BSP for the BJP last year, is leading from Padrauna. Aditi Singh of the Congress leading from Rae Bareli.
BJP: 288 SP: 16 Cong: 11 BSP: 20 Others: 24
As soon as counting of postal votes began, the party stole an early march over its rivals from the words go. The party's leads in Bareilly and Awadh show the kind of progress it has made since the last assembly elections.
The SP-Congress alliance is currently a distant second, closely followed by the BSP in third.
Speaking to news agency ANI, party MP Yogi Adityanath says the people of Uttar Pradesh rejected the SP-Congress combine. He calls it a "vote for development'. BJP state chief Keshav Prasad Maurya says UP will help reelect PM Modi in 2019. When asked about the SP, Maurya said Akhilesh and his uncles ruined the state.
Meanwhile, Home Minister Rajnath Singh's son Pankaj Singh is leading for the BJP from Noida. Swami Prasad Maurya, who left BSP for the BJP last year, is leading from Padrauna. Aditi Singh of the Congress leading from Rae Bareli.
BJP: 288 SP: 16 Cong: 11 BSP: 20 Others: 24
10:51
Omar Abdullah @abdullah_omar Punjab, Goa & Manipur would certainly suggest that the BJP isn't unbeatable but strategy needs to shift from criticism to positive alternate
10:42 BJP crosses halfway mark in U'khand, Cong in Punjab
UP CM Akhilesh Yadav may go to meet the governor at Raj Bhawan at 2 pm to submit his resignation.
Uttarakhand: BJP has crossed the halfway mark
Punjab: Congress crosses halfway mark.
Leads so far
Manipur
BJP 16; Congress 12; Others 3
Uttarakhand
BJP 51; Cong 16; Oth 3
Goa
BJP 7; Cong 11; Oth 4
In 2012, the BJP had come to power in Goa with 21 seats, the Congress had got 9 seats, MGP 3, Goa Vikas Party 2 and Independents 5.
Punjab
Cong 65; SAD 23; AAP 24; BJP 5; Oth 0
UP
BJP 283; SP 57; BSP 25; Cong 17; Oth 21
Image: Congress office in Punjab.
Uttarakhand: BJP has crossed the halfway mark
Punjab: Congress crosses halfway mark.
Leads so far
Manipur
BJP 16; Congress 12; Others 3
Uttarakhand
BJP 51; Cong 16; Oth 3
Goa
BJP 7; Cong 11; Oth 4
In 2012, the BJP had come to power in Goa with 21 seats, the Congress had got 9 seats, MGP 3, Goa Vikas Party 2 and Independents 5.
Punjab
Cong 65; SAD 23; AAP 24; BJP 5; Oth 0
UP
BJP 283; SP 57; BSP 25; Cong 17; Oth 21
Image: Congress office in Punjab.
10:25
Mukhtar Ansari who shifted from SP to BSP trailing behind Suheldev by 724 votes in Mau.
10:23 Will accept people's mandate: Shivpal Yadav
Samajwadi Party leader Shivpal Yadav on Saturday said the party would accept people's mandate after the counting of votes in Uttar Pradesh concludes.
"All are waiting for the results. We know that we are going to win the results though the people's mandate will be acceptable," Yadav told ANI.
"All are waiting for the results. We know that we are going to win the results though the people's mandate will be acceptable," Yadav told ANI.
10:18 Will reserve judgment on whether Rahul is a mass leader: Cong's Sandeep Dikshit
So, here's what outspoken Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit tells NDTV on the party faring poorly in UP and Rahul Gandhi's leadership.
"Our crisis started in 2012. I am aware my comments could land me in trouble," he says.
When asked if he thought Rahul Gandhi was a mass leader, Sandeep Dikshit says, "Mmmmm. I will reserve judgement." He says in UP, both - starting the campaign with Sheila Dikshit and then ending it - were not well thought out. We'll be in trouble if we read these results as affirmation that Congress is the main opposition party. The Congress does not build leaders."
"Our crisis started in 2012. I am aware my comments could land me in trouble," he says.
When asked if he thought Rahul Gandhi was a mass leader, Sandeep Dikshit says, "Mmmmm. I will reserve judgement." He says in UP, both - starting the campaign with Sheila Dikshit and then ending it - were not well thought out. We'll be in trouble if we read these results as affirmation that Congress is the main opposition party. The Congress does not build leaders."
10:04
Chants of Modi! Modi! break out outside the BJP office in Lucknow.
10:01 Punjab proves exit polls wrong: Cong ahead of AAP
AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal's residence in Delhi decorated ahead of the results. In Punjab, the exit polls, predicted that the Aam Aadmi Party and the Congress would be tied and there would be a hung assembly. The AAP has said that if it doesn't win the elections with a comfortable majority in Punjab, it would not align with other political parties to form the state government.
Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal seems to have reversed the trend. He is now leading over nearest rival Ravneet Singh Bittu of Congress by a margin of 2144 votes from Jalalabad.
For now, the exit polls seem to be off the mark. The polls had given AAP and Congress a tie. Punjab witnessed a triangular contest in the assembly polls. It was predicted to be a neck and neck fight between the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party while the ruling Shiromani akali Dal-Bharatiya Janata Party may face a drubbing, according to pollsters.
Exit polls released ahead of the March-11 counting predict the SAD-BJP combine, which has been ruling the state for 10 years, could be struggling to get even into double-digits in the 117-member House due to multiple factors including the anti-incumbency.
Leads in Punjab: Cong: 56, AAP 21, SAD: 22, BJP 2, Others 2
Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal seems to have reversed the trend. He is now leading over nearest rival Ravneet Singh Bittu of Congress by a margin of 2144 votes from Jalalabad.
For now, the exit polls seem to be off the mark. The polls had given AAP and Congress a tie. Punjab witnessed a triangular contest in the assembly polls. It was predicted to be a neck and neck fight between the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party while the ruling Shiromani akali Dal-Bharatiya Janata Party may face a drubbing, according to pollsters.
Exit polls released ahead of the March-11 counting predict the SAD-BJP combine, which has been ruling the state for 10 years, could be struggling to get even into double-digits in the 117-member House due to multiple factors including the anti-incumbency.
Leads in Punjab: Cong: 56, AAP 21, SAD: 22, BJP 2, Others 2
09:45 Goa: CM Parsekar trails, Cong leads
In Goa, incumbent Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar is trailing in Mandrem by over a 1000 votes. Though the BJP leadership has not come out with an official statement on the leadership issue, some senior party leaders said during campaigning that the chief ministerial nominee would be chosen by the elected legislators.
The Congress, the main opposition in the state, has fielded its nominees in 37 seats and backed the candidates of the United Goan, Goa Forward and an Independent in the rest. The outcome will also decide the fate of the alliance between Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP), Goa Suraksha Manch (GSM) and the Shiv Sena. The MGP, one of the oldest regional outfits, broke alliance with the BJP before the elections, while the GSM was floated by RSS rebel Subhash Velingkar.
The combine, according to political analysts, could harm the BJP more than the Congress and the NCP. A new entrant to the electoral scene in the coastal state,the AAP has contested in 39 seats and the leaders who campaigned for the party included Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. keenly watched constituencies in the state include Mandrem in North Goa from where Parsekar is seeking re-election and Panaji, which was represented by Parrikar before he moved tothe Centre.
The Congress, the main opposition in the state, has fielded its nominees in 37 seats and backed the candidates of the United Goan, Goa Forward and an Independent in the rest. The outcome will also decide the fate of the alliance between Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP), Goa Suraksha Manch (GSM) and the Shiv Sena. The MGP, one of the oldest regional outfits, broke alliance with the BJP before the elections, while the GSM was floated by RSS rebel Subhash Velingkar.
The combine, according to political analysts, could harm the BJP more than the Congress and the NCP. A new entrant to the electoral scene in the coastal state,the AAP has contested in 39 seats and the leaders who campaigned for the party included Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. keenly watched constituencies in the state include Mandrem in North Goa from where Parsekar is seeking re-election and Panaji, which was represented by Parrikar before he moved tothe Centre.
09:32
Chief Minister Harish Rawat now trailing from Haridwar Rural seat.
09:30
AAP's Somnath Bharti on Punjab leads, tells NDTV: "We are new to politics, we don't
understand numbers very much. We believe in hard work, hard work for
people, hard work in the assembly. I still believe the trends will
reverse by 10:30 am."
09:29 Cong leads in Goa
Goa: Election officials said counting will be completed by 2.30 pm. The votes for 19 constituencies will be counted at Panaji in North Goa, while the tally for the remaining 21 will be carried out in Margao in South Goa. The elections held on February 4 witnessed an enthusiastic response of voters, with polling clocking in at 83 per cent.
The election has five former chief ministers besides the incumbent CM in the fray. The Congress, the prime opponent of the BJP, has fielded four former chief ministers -- Digambar Kamat, Pratapsinh Rane, Ravi Naik and Luizinho Faleiro in their respective constituencies, while the NCP has given a ticket to Churchill Alemao. The main fight expected to be between the Congress and the BJP, while the AAP has also put up a spirited fight on 39 seats.
The BJP has fielded 36 candidates, supporting Independents in Benaulim, Navelim, Priol and Velim. The Congress has candidates on 37 seats and has extended support to United Goans' Atanasio Monserratte in Panaji, Goa Forward's Vinod Palyekar in Siolim and Independent candidate Rohan Khaunte in Porvorim constituencies.
Leads: Cong: 5, Others: 3
The election has five former chief ministers besides the incumbent CM in the fray. The Congress, the prime opponent of the BJP, has fielded four former chief ministers -- Digambar Kamat, Pratapsinh Rane, Ravi Naik and Luizinho Faleiro in their respective constituencies, while the NCP has given a ticket to Churchill Alemao. The main fight expected to be between the Congress and the BJP, while the AAP has also put up a spirited fight on 39 seats.
The BJP has fielded 36 candidates, supporting Independents in Benaulim, Navelim, Priol and Velim. The Congress has candidates on 37 seats and has extended support to United Goans' Atanasio Monserratte in Panaji, Goa Forward's Vinod Palyekar in Siolim and Independent candidate Rohan Khaunte in Porvorim constituencies.
Leads: Cong: 5, Others: 3
09:24 Mulayam's daughter-in-law trails
Mulayam Singh Yadav's daughter-in-law Aparna Yadav trailing from Lucknow Cantt seat.
Goa CM Laxmikant Parsekar trailing by over 1000 votes, Congress leading from Mandrem.
Chief Minister Harish Rawat leading from Haridwar Rural seat
Goa CM Laxmikant Parsekar trailing by over 1000 votes, Congress leading from Mandrem.
Chief Minister Harish Rawat leading from Haridwar Rural seat
09:21 And in Punjab CM Badal still in the lead, son trails
Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal is ahead of his nearest Congress rival Capt Amarinder Singh by a margin of 1,245 votes in Lambi seat. In Bhadaur (Reserve) assembly segment, the AAP's Pirmal Singh Tohra has taken an early lead. All-India Youth Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring is off to a good start in Gidderbaha. Punjab Cabinet Minister Bikram Singh Majithia is ahead in Majitha seat by a margin of 1,126 votes over his nearest Congress rival. In Hargobindpur seat, Balwinder Singh Laddi of Congress has taken the lead, while AAP's Kulwant Singh is ahead in Mehal Kalan seat.
09:14 BJP leads in UP, SP-Cong alliance distant second
In Uttar Pradesh, the state India is watching closely, counting of votes for the 403 Assembly seats started at 8 in the morning. Counting of ballots will take place in all the 75 districts," state election office said today. Postal ballots were being counted first and initial trends are expected to be in by 9 am.
In addition to general observers, a micro-observer has been deputed at each and every counting table to keep an eye on counting. Three-tier security arrangements have been made to ensure full proof security in and around the counting centres.
A total of 78 counting centres have been set up in the state. In three districts of Amethi, Azamgarh and Kushinagar two counting centres each have been set up and in the remaining 72 district, counting will be held at one place.
Additional CCTV cameras have been installed at vantage points from where the carrying of EVMs from strong rooms to the counting hall can be recorded for effective monitoring. Uttar Pradesh had seven-phase polling that started on February 11 and ended on March 8.
Leads/trails in UP so far...
Raja Bhaiyya (Independent) leading in Kunda.
Garima Singh of the BJP leading in Amethi, against Amita Singh of the Congress. Gayatri Prajapati is the SP candidate from the same candidate, who is also leading. He is a rape accused.
UP minister Azam Khan (from Rampur) trailing.
Aparna Yadav (Cantt seat) trailing.
Azam Khan's son Abdullah trailing from Swar, Rampur.
Leads so far: BJP: 163, BSP: 30, SP: 36, Cong 11, Others
In addition to general observers, a micro-observer has been deputed at each and every counting table to keep an eye on counting. Three-tier security arrangements have been made to ensure full proof security in and around the counting centres.
A total of 78 counting centres have been set up in the state. In three districts of Amethi, Azamgarh and Kushinagar two counting centres each have been set up and in the remaining 72 district, counting will be held at one place.
Additional CCTV cameras have been installed at vantage points from where the carrying of EVMs from strong rooms to the counting hall can be recorded for effective monitoring. Uttar Pradesh had seven-phase polling that started on February 11 and ended on March 8.
Leads/trails in UP so far...
Raja Bhaiyya (Independent) leading in Kunda.
Garima Singh of the BJP leading in Amethi, against Amita Singh of the Congress. Gayatri Prajapati is the SP candidate from the same candidate, who is also leading. He is a rape accused.
UP minister Azam Khan (from Rampur) trailing.
Aparna Yadav (Cantt seat) trailing.
Azam Khan's son Abdullah trailing from Swar, Rampur.
Leads so far: BJP: 163, BSP: 30, SP: 36, Cong 11, Others
08:58 Irom trails in Manipur
In Manipur, aspiring chief minister and rights activist Irom Sharmila trails from the Thoubal constituency against three time CM Okram Ibobi Singh in a keenly watched contest. Sharmila said yesterday that muscle, money power is being openly used by parties.
08:56 Punjab: Capt, Sukbir Badal trail; Sidhu, Mann lead
Punjab: Key constituencies whose results would be keenly watched include the Lambi seat, where the CM Parkash Singh Badal is locked in a triangular contest with Capt Amarinder Singh and journalist-turned-politician Jarnail Singh (AAP).
Patiala is another key seat where Amarinder Singh is up against SAD candidate and retired army Chief General JJ Singh. Jalalabad, considered a pocket borough of the ruling Badal family, has two sitting MPs-- Ravneet Singh Bittu (Congress) and comedian-turned-politician Bhagwant Mann (AAP)-up against SAD president and Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal.
Veteran Congress leader and former chief minister Rajinder Kaur Bhattal is fighting it out against Finance Minister Parminder Singh Dhindsa (SAD) from her traditional bastion of Lehragagga.
AAP's Himmat Singh Shergill is fighting against Revenue Minister Bikram Singh Majithia from Majitha while Gurpreet Singh Ghuggi (AAP) is giving a challenge to Congress stalwart Ashwini Sekhri from Batala.
Navjot Singh Sidhu, who after several flip-flops had joined the Congress party, contested the Amritsar East seat against Rajesh Kumar Honey of BJP.
The CM's estranged nephew Manpreet Singh Badal is trying his fortunes from Bathinda Urban seat on a Congress ticket while Indian Youth Congress chief Raja Amarinder Singh Warring is contesting from the Gidderbaha seat.
So, who's leading so far in Punjab...
Parkash Singh Badal leading in Lambi
Navjot Singh Sidhu leading in Amritsar
Sukhbir Singh Badal trails in Jalalabad
Bhagwant Mann (AAP) leading in Jalalabad
Capt Amarinder Singh trails in Patiala.
Gen JJ Singh trails in Patiala
Patiala is another key seat where Amarinder Singh is up against SAD candidate and retired army Chief General JJ Singh. Jalalabad, considered a pocket borough of the ruling Badal family, has two sitting MPs-- Ravneet Singh Bittu (Congress) and comedian-turned-politician Bhagwant Mann (AAP)-up against SAD president and Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal.
Veteran Congress leader and former chief minister Rajinder Kaur Bhattal is fighting it out against Finance Minister Parminder Singh Dhindsa (SAD) from her traditional bastion of Lehragagga.
AAP's Himmat Singh Shergill is fighting against Revenue Minister Bikram Singh Majithia from Majitha while Gurpreet Singh Ghuggi (AAP) is giving a challenge to Congress stalwart Ashwini Sekhri from Batala.
Navjot Singh Sidhu, who after several flip-flops had joined the Congress party, contested the Amritsar East seat against Rajesh Kumar Honey of BJP.
The CM's estranged nephew Manpreet Singh Badal is trying his fortunes from Bathinda Urban seat on a Congress ticket while Indian Youth Congress chief Raja Amarinder Singh Warring is contesting from the Gidderbaha seat.
So, who's leading so far in Punjab...
Parkash Singh Badal leading in Lambi
Navjot Singh Sidhu leading in Amritsar
Sukhbir Singh Badal trails in Jalalabad
Bhagwant Mann (AAP) leading in Jalalabad
Capt Amarinder Singh trails in Patiala.
Gen JJ Singh trails in Patiala
08:38 Hours of exit polls indicating Cong rout party insulates Rahul Gandhi
Despite grim exit poll projections in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Goa, the Congress put up a brave face today saying it will win all five states. The Congress also sought to insulate party vice president from any negative fallout saying poll results are never a referendum on any single individual.
Senior Congress leader and party's UP general secretary Ghulam Nabi Azad said, "The SP Congress alliance will win UP elections despite exit poll claims." Asked if Rahul Gandhi,who spearheaded the party campaign in UP, would be responsible for the loss or victory tomorrow, Azad said, "Elections are not a referendum on individuals."
Senior Congress leader and party's UP general secretary Ghulam Nabi Azad said, "The SP Congress alliance will win UP elections despite exit poll claims." Asked if Rahul Gandhi,who spearheaded the party campaign in UP, would be responsible for the loss or victory tomorrow, Azad said, "Elections are not a referendum on individuals."
08:35
In Punjab, Parkash Singh Badal leading from Lambi. Capt Amarinder Singh second and AAP's Jarnail Singh third. Incidentally, Capt Amarinder Singh turns 75 today.
08:33 Rahul's cutout disappears from SP poster in Lucknow
Amid highly uncertain and speculative political scenario, Congress President Sonia Gandhi has gone abroad for a routine check-up and is not in the country today. Son and Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi is in charge.
NDTV reports that in UP, a lifesize cutout of Rahul Gandhi placed alongside Akhilesh Yadav has disappeared. It has been replaced by SP founder and chief of the party, Mulayam Singh Yadav. Remains to be seen whether the family dispute and the alliance with the Congress has affected the party's fortunes in UP.
NDTV reports that in UP, a lifesize cutout of Rahul Gandhi placed alongside Akhilesh Yadav has disappeared. It has been replaced by SP founder and chief of the party, Mulayam Singh Yadav. Remains to be seen whether the family dispute and the alliance with the Congress has affected the party's fortunes in UP.
08:28
Drone cameras being used for surveillance near a counting centre in Lucknow. The stunning image is courtesy, ANI.
08:27
Erom Sharmila is trailing in Manipur.
08:25 Postal ballots counted first
Visuals from Ludhiana: Counting of votes underway in Punjab, postal ballots being counted first. Ballot papers are distributed to electors or returned by post, in contrast to electors voting in person at a polling station.
08:22 Yogendra Yadav's predictions
Yogendra Yadav, a former AAP leader and more importantly, a respected psephologist, tweets his 'expectations', even as Dr Prannoy Roy calls him "crazy", on NDTV for putting himself out there so early. So this is what Mr Yadav tweeted: "My expectations: Uttkd: BJP majority; UP: hung, BJP ahead; PB: alkali rout, anything else possible; Goa: BJP ahead; Manipur: Hung, Cong ahead.
08:16
Counting begins in 54 centres in Punjab.
08:12 How the votes are counted
Counting of votes have begun. Tens of thousands of central forces personnel are deployed at the polling centres, including 20,000 personnel in Uttar Pradesh.
In Uttar Pradesh which has a 403-member assembly, 78 counting centres have been set up in 75 districts. 15 counting centres have been established in Uttarakhand where the Assembly strength is 70 .
Votes will be counted at 54 centers in 27 locations setup for election to 117-member Punjab Assembly. In Goa, votes will be counted at two centres in North and South Goa to declare the winners in 40 seats. In Manipur, counting of votes will be held for 60 seats.
The Election Commission has issued strict guidelines on security arrangements for counting of votes and has prohibited mobile phones inside the counting halls.
In addition to general observers, a micro-observer will be deputed at each and every counting table. A three-tier security arrangement has been made in and around the counting centres.
Only central forces will be deployed inside the counting centres while local police will be deployed in the outer circle and forces from other states will be around the centres to prevent entry of any unauthorised persons.
A senior magistrate will be posted at the entrance to control the crowd and regulate the entry. The 100-metre are around a counting premise or campus is to be demarcated as pedestrian zone and no vehicles shall be allowed within this perimeter.
Additional CCTV cameras will be installed at locations from where the carrying of EVMs from strong rooms to the counting hall can be effectively monitored.
Image: Security arrangements in place outside counting centres in Moradabad, UP.
In Uttar Pradesh which has a 403-member assembly, 78 counting centres have been set up in 75 districts. 15 counting centres have been established in Uttarakhand where the Assembly strength is 70 .
Votes will be counted at 54 centers in 27 locations setup for election to 117-member Punjab Assembly. In Goa, votes will be counted at two centres in North and South Goa to declare the winners in 40 seats. In Manipur, counting of votes will be held for 60 seats.
The Election Commission has issued strict guidelines on security arrangements for counting of votes and has prohibited mobile phones inside the counting halls.
In addition to general observers, a micro-observer will be deputed at each and every counting table. A three-tier security arrangement has been made in and around the counting centres.
Only central forces will be deployed inside the counting centres while local police will be deployed in the outer circle and forces from other states will be around the centres to prevent entry of any unauthorised persons.
A senior magistrate will be posted at the entrance to control the crowd and regulate the entry. The 100-metre are around a counting premise or campus is to be demarcated as pedestrian zone and no vehicles shall be allowed within this perimeter.
Additional CCTV cameras will be installed at locations from where the carrying of EVMs from strong rooms to the counting hall can be effectively monitored.
Image: Security arrangements in place outside counting centres in Moradabad, UP.
08:05
Newly minted BJP leader Rita Bahuguna Joshi invokes the gods ahead of the results. She is the BJP candidate from the Lucknow Cantt.
08:04 Bua-bhatija alliance in UP? Wait and watch...
Samajwadi Party workers perform Havan in Lucknow ahead of the election results.
Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav used the Bua-Bhatija (nephew-aunt) reference, the same address he used, to make a dig on the BSP supremo, has said that although he believes that the Samajwadi Party and Congress combine has got the support of majority in UP, if need be, the SP is open to ally with the BSP.
The overture was immediately rejected by Mayawati.
Image: Samajwadi Party workers perform havan in Lucknow ahead of the results.
Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav used the Bua-Bhatija (nephew-aunt) reference, the same address he used, to make a dig on the BSP supremo, has said that although he believes that the Samajwadi Party and Congress combine has got the support of majority in UP, if need be, the SP is open to ally with the BSP.
The overture was immediately rejected by Mayawati.
Image: Samajwadi Party workers perform havan in Lucknow ahead of the results.
07:57 Kesariya Holi for BJP in UP?
None of the exit polls have given a clear majority for any party in Uttar Pradesh. The suspense will be over in a few hours when the electorate of 140
million, in a population of over 200 million will give their mandate to
elect 403 legislators after over two months of gruelling high-voltage
campaigning through the state, where political parties contested in the
seven-phased, three-cornered battle.
The major contenders - the Samajwadi Party-Congress alliance, the BJP and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) - left no stone unturned to woo voters.
The entire nation is eagerly waiting for the final poll results, which not only will script a new chapter for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rahul Gandhi and Mayawati, but for the Indian politics as well. It will be a kind of mandate by the people on demonetisation and other programmes and policies introduced by the BJP Government at the Centre, if it manages to come to power in the state after a long gap of 15 years.
If the BJP gets the majority, it will surely say that the demonetisation, instead of being PM Modi's monumental hubris that Opposition parties were hoping for and campaigned vigorously against, has actually turned out to be advantageous for the party.
If the exit polls data proves true tomorrow, which does often indicate the mood in a state, one can safely say that people did not like the much-hyped slogan "UP ko Ye Saath Pasand hai" of the SP-Congress alliance and liked the slogan of "Sabka Saath-Sabka Vikas" of the BJP to write a new chapter in the political history of UP and the political observers might also see a clear polarisation of Hindu votes in the state in support of the BJP, which didn't give even a single ticket to any Muslim candidate in the entire state.
According to the Exit Polls, the BJP looks fighting fit in 2017, but, the fact remains that in 2014, when it swept the state on an appeal from Prime Ministerial candidate Narendra Modi, the Samajwadi Party and BSP polled 19.77 percent and 22.35 percent of the votes respectively.
The BJP's Ravi Shankar Prasad who was in Patna yesterday, quipped, "Ek Holi kal bhi khelenge, jo kesariya Holi hogi. We will play another Holi tomorrow which will be a saffron Holi." Exit polls show a BJP majority in all four states, except Punjab.
Image: Ladoos being prepared in Varanasi ahead of the Election Results.
The major contenders - the Samajwadi Party-Congress alliance, the BJP and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) - left no stone unturned to woo voters.
The entire nation is eagerly waiting for the final poll results, which not only will script a new chapter for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rahul Gandhi and Mayawati, but for the Indian politics as well. It will be a kind of mandate by the people on demonetisation and other programmes and policies introduced by the BJP Government at the Centre, if it manages to come to power in the state after a long gap of 15 years.
If the BJP gets the majority, it will surely say that the demonetisation, instead of being PM Modi's monumental hubris that Opposition parties were hoping for and campaigned vigorously against, has actually turned out to be advantageous for the party.
If the exit polls data proves true tomorrow, which does often indicate the mood in a state, one can safely say that people did not like the much-hyped slogan "UP ko Ye Saath Pasand hai" of the SP-Congress alliance and liked the slogan of "Sabka Saath-Sabka Vikas" of the BJP to write a new chapter in the political history of UP and the political observers might also see a clear polarisation of Hindu votes in the state in support of the BJP, which didn't give even a single ticket to any Muslim candidate in the entire state.
According to the Exit Polls, the BJP looks fighting fit in 2017, but, the fact remains that in 2014, when it swept the state on an appeal from Prime Ministerial candidate Narendra Modi, the Samajwadi Party and BSP polled 19.77 percent and 22.35 percent of the votes respectively.
The BJP's Ravi Shankar Prasad who was in Patna yesterday, quipped, "Ek Holi kal bhi khelenge, jo kesariya Holi hogi. We will play another Holi tomorrow which will be a saffron Holi." Exit polls show a BJP majority in all four states, except Punjab.
Image: Ladoos being prepared in Varanasi ahead of the Election Results.
07:47 5-state-poll verdict: Counting will be free of malpractices, assures CEC
Good morning and welcome to the live commentary on the results of the five-state elections. As voting wraps up in five states - Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Goa, Manipur
and Uttarakhand, the results will be declared today.
As the Assembly elections in five states come to an end, Chief Election Commissioner Nasim Zaidi has said the counting process will be done according to the rules and will be free from any kind of malpractices, so, that the correct choice of voters is reflected.
"Counting is the conclusion of the long drawn electoral process, which the commission had launched on January 4. Voters' political choice must be correctly reflected during the counting process and ensured that the counting is done transparently according to the rules, free from any kind of malpractices," the Election Commissioner told ANI.
He added that there are established laws, rules and instructions of the commission according to which counting will be completed.
Elaborating the counting process, Zaidi said the first stage was bringing Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) from the polling stations to the strong room.
"That process has been accomplished in all states," he said."These strong rooms are under the protection and security cover of central police forces. They are covered by CCTVs, televisions and LED facilities. Political parties and candidates have also been given an opportunity to keep an eye on the strong rooms, so, that there is no malpractice done," Zaidi asserted.
He further said that the second part of the preparation is that EVMs are safely escorted from strong rooms to the counting halls."In most of the places, the counting rooms are nearby, but, in some places these rooms are at a distance.
In such situations, the Commission has directed that between these two rooms there would be sanitised corridors which will be covered under CCTV," he added.
He said that the representatives of candidates can also keep an eye on the movement of the EVMs from strong rooms to the counting halls.
"The counting process goes on without any disruption and it has been ensured that all people entering the counting hall are subjected to frisking so that mobile phones, arms or any other undesirable material does not find any access inside the hall," the Election Commissioner said.
He said that before the counting process starts, the counting supervisors will ask counting agents to be satisfied if the machine, which is being subjected to counting, is the same that was used at the polling stations.
"The counting agents have the number of voting machines with them already furnished by the commission," he added.After the counting agent is satisfied that the EVM is preserved and has not been subjected to any malpractice, then the results come out."
After the completion of the counting process, there is a certain statutory procedure involved, which includes satisfaction of Regional Officer, signatures and declaration. This is the complete election process which may go on to late afternoon or evening on March 11," the Election Commissioner said.
As the Assembly elections in five states come to an end, Chief Election Commissioner Nasim Zaidi has said the counting process will be done according to the rules and will be free from any kind of malpractices, so, that the correct choice of voters is reflected.
"Counting is the conclusion of the long drawn electoral process, which the commission had launched on January 4. Voters' political choice must be correctly reflected during the counting process and ensured that the counting is done transparently according to the rules, free from any kind of malpractices," the Election Commissioner told ANI.
He added that there are established laws, rules and instructions of the commission according to which counting will be completed.
Elaborating the counting process, Zaidi said the first stage was bringing Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) from the polling stations to the strong room.
"That process has been accomplished in all states," he said."These strong rooms are under the protection and security cover of central police forces. They are covered by CCTVs, televisions and LED facilities. Political parties and candidates have also been given an opportunity to keep an eye on the strong rooms, so, that there is no malpractice done," Zaidi asserted.
He further said that the second part of the preparation is that EVMs are safely escorted from strong rooms to the counting halls."In most of the places, the counting rooms are nearby, but, in some places these rooms are at a distance.
In such situations, the Commission has directed that between these two rooms there would be sanitised corridors which will be covered under CCTV," he added.
He said that the representatives of candidates can also keep an eye on the movement of the EVMs from strong rooms to the counting halls.
"The counting process goes on without any disruption and it has been ensured that all people entering the counting hall are subjected to frisking so that mobile phones, arms or any other undesirable material does not find any access inside the hall," the Election Commissioner said.
He said that before the counting process starts, the counting supervisors will ask counting agents to be satisfied if the machine, which is being subjected to counting, is the same that was used at the polling stations.
"The counting agents have the number of voting machines with them already furnished by the commission," he added.After the counting agent is satisfied that the EVM is preserved and has not been subjected to any malpractice, then the results come out."
After the completion of the counting process, there is a certain statutory procedure involved, which includes satisfaction of Regional Officer, signatures and declaration. This is the complete election process which may go on to late afternoon or evening on March 11," the Election Commissioner said.
00:03 US military nude photo sharing scandal widens beyond Marines
US servicemen from all parts of the military have been sharing nude photos of their female colleagues online, it has emerged.
Reports last week uncovered widespread photo sharing by current and former Marines on Facebook, triggering a navy investigation.
The Pentagon said such behaviour was "inconsistent" with its values.
Male service members use a message board on an anonymous image hosting website to share nude images of their female counterparts.
They often first post clothed photos of female personnel taken from their social media pages, and ask if any members have nude photos, which they call "wins". Others then post photos.
The behaviour previously reported was confined to Marines on Facebook.
A Facebook group called Marines United with 30,000 members was recently closed down after the scandal erupted.
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