PM Modi alleges Congress seeks inheritance tax imposition.
Congress claims SEBI confirmed Adani scam, demands JPC inquiry; Smriti Irani labels Rahul Gandhi “anti-Sanatan” and “anti-national.”
During a poll rally in Chhattisgarh, PM Modi accused Congress of planning to impose inheritance tax, alleging they aim to seize assets and rights of citizens’ children. Meanwhile, former Congress president Rahul Gandhi, who had been unwell and inactive in the Lok Sabha poll campaign, is set to resume electioneering on April 24. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh announced Gandhi’s schedule, stating he will hold public meetings in Maharashtra’s Amravati and Solapur. The meetings are scheduled for 12:30 p.m. in Amravati and 3:30 p.m. in Solapur. Gandhi’s return to campaigning comes amid heightened political activity as parties intensify efforts to reach out to voters ahead of the upcoming elections.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi intensified his attack on the Congress, accusing the party of attempting to extend reservation on religious grounds, particularly for Muslims. Modi alleged that the Congress was engaged in a “deep conspiracy” aimed at redistributing wealth among a select group. He referenced a speech by former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, purportedly asserting that Muslims have the primary claim to the country’s resources.
The Prime Minister’s remarks sparked controversy, with the Congress vehemently denying the allegations and accusing Modi of spreading divisive rhetoric. Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate expressed disappointment with the Election Commission’s response, stating that the party was exploring legal options due to the Commission’s perceived inaction on their complaint against Modi’s remarks.
Shrinate emphasized the importance of institutions like the Election Commission maintaining public trust and integrity, particularly during the electoral process. She urged the Commission to take appropriate action to address concerns raised by the Congress, asserting that divisive statements targeting specific religious communities have no place in Indian politics.
Meanwhile, the Election Commission provided an update on the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, announcing that 1,351 candidates from 12 states and union territories will be contesting in the third phase scheduled for May 7. The Commission highlighted the inclusion of eight candidates from the Betul seat in Madhya Pradesh, where the election was postponed from the second phase due to the unfortunate demise of the BSP candidate.
The statement also specified that the deadline for the withdrawal of candidature across all 12 states and union territories was April 22, marking a crucial milestone in the electoral process. With preparations underway for the third phase of polling, political parties are intensifying their campaigns and mobilizing supporters to secure victory in the upcoming elections.
The developments underscore the high stakes involved in the Lok Sabha elections, with parties vying for power and seeking to sway voters through strategic maneuvers and persuasive rhetoric. As the electoral battle heats up, the role of institutions like the Election Commission becomes paramount in ensuring the integrity and fairness of the democratic process.
The controversy surrounding Modi’s remarks and the Congress’s response highlight the deeply polarized nature of Indian politics, where allegations of communalism and divisive tactics are frequently employed by rival parties. In this charged atmosphere, the upcoming elections will serve as a litmus test for the resilience of India’s democratic institutions and the ability of political leaders to uphold the principles of inclusivity and pluralism.
The Election Commission announced that a total of 1,351 candidates will be contesting in the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections, scheduled to take place on May 7. This phase will see electoral battles unfold across 12 states and Union Territories, with candidates from various political parties vying for victory.
One notable inclusion in the candidate list is the presence of eight contenders from the Betul seat in Madhya Pradesh. Originally slated for the second phase of elections, the polling in Betul was postponed to the third phase due to the unfortunate demise of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) candidate.
The significant number of candidates reflects the diversity and complexity of India’s political landscape. With candidates representing a wide range of parties and ideologies, voters will have a plethora of options to choose from as they exercise their democratic right to elect their representatives.
Each candidate brings their unique background, vision, and agenda to the electoral arena, seeking to garner support from the electorate through rigorous campaigning and persuasive rhetoric. From seasoned politicians to first-time contenders, the candidate pool represents a cross-section of Indian society, reflecting the country’s rich tapestry of cultures, beliefs, and aspirations.
As the election date approaches, candidates will intensify their efforts to connect with voters, addressing their concerns and articulating their plans for governance. Campaign rallies, public meetings, and door-to-door canvassing will become commonplace as candidates strive to leave a lasting impression on voters and secure their support.
Moreover, the inclusion of candidates from diverse backgrounds underscores the inclusive nature of India’s electoral process. Regardless of caste, creed, or socio-economic status, individuals have the opportunity to participate in the democratic process and contest elections, ensuring representation for all sections of society.
For the Election Commission, the task of overseeing such a large-scale electoral exercise poses significant logistical challenges. From ensuring the availability of polling booths to coordinating security arrangements, the Commission must meticulously plan and execute every aspect of the electoral process to uphold the integrity and fairness of the elections.
As voters prepare to cast their ballots in the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections, they will play a pivotal role in shaping the future trajectory of the country. The outcome of the elections will not only determine the composition of the next government but also set the course for India’s socio-economic and political development in the years to come.