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ZPM Decides to Contest Lok Sabha Elections Independently, Announces CM Lalduhawma


1. ZPM, led by Mizoram’s Chief Minister Lalduhawma, opts to contest Lok Sabha elections independently.
2. Lalduhawma highlights BJP’s independent candidates, affirming competition despite alliances.
3. He acknowledges Nitish Kumar’s exit from the INDIA alliance, signaling shifting political dynamics.


Aizawl, April 17: Mizoram’s Chief Minister, Lalduhawma, declared that the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections independently, distancing itself from alliances.

Despite the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) fielding its own candidates, Lalduhawma emphasized that this does not eliminate competition. He also noted the departure of Nitish Kumar from the INDIA alliance.

While Mamata Banerjee remains nominally part of the alliance, Lalduhawma suggested her practical disengagement.


Also Read: Himanta Biswa Sarma Forecasts 50% Vote Share in First Phase of Assam Lok Sabha Elections 2024

He stated, “Since they (BJP) have their candidates we cannot say that there is no fight…Nitish Kumar had left the INDIA alliance and Mamata Banerjee has not left the alliance but practically she has left…There is no alliance…We are not supporting anybody…We want to take the final decision and nobody should take the final decision for us.”

The Chief Minister underlined the absence of an active alliance and reiterated that they would not endorse any candidate.

Lalduhawma stressed the importance of retaining autonomy in decision-making and expressed the party’s determination to make independent choices without external influence.

Himanta Biswa Sarma Forecasts 50% Vote Share in First Phase of Assam Lok Sabha Elections 2024


1. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is confident of securing 50% votes in Assam’s first phase Lok Sabha campaign.
2. Addressing Vijay Sankalp Sabha, Sarma sets an optimistic tone for the April 19 polls.
3. Himanta Biswa Sarma’s remarks reflect a strong belief in the BJP’s performance in contested constituencies.


Guwahati, April 17: As the first phase of campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections in Assam draws to a close, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma exudes confidence in securing 50 percent of the votes in each contested constituency.

Speaking at the Vijay Sankalp Sabha in Sivasagar, Jorhat Lok Sabha, Sarma’s optimism sets the tone for the upcoming polls scheduled for April 19.

Five Lok Sabha constituencies—Kaziranga, Sonitpur, Lakhimpur, Dibrugarh, and Jorhat—are slated for voting on April 19. Among the contenders are Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and senior Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi, who have filed their nominations.


Also Read: TMC Reveals Lok Sabha Election Manifesto ‘Didir Shopoth’ Vowing to Revoke CAA and Cease NRC

Ahead of the election day, various establishments, including government offices, educational institutions, commercial entities, and industries, will remain closed within the constituencies’ jurisdiction, as per the directives of the General Administration Department.

In the first phase, a total of 35 candidates are vying for victory, with fifteen among them being ‘crorepatis.’

Notably, independent candidate Diluwara Begum Chowdhury from Kaziranga emerges as the wealthiest contender.

Among the candidates, Ranjit Dutta, the BJP nominee from Sonitpur, stands out as the richest, with assets totaling Rs 8.97 crore, comprising both movable and immovable properties.

TMC Reveals Lok Sabha Election Manifesto ‘Didir Shopoth’ Vowing to Revoke CAA and Cease NRC


1. TMC presents the “Didir Shopoth” manifesto for the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections.
2. Welfare schemes aim to uplift all citizens.
3. Manifesto outlines comprehensive blueprint for national progress.


Kolkata, April 17: Trinamool Congress (TMC) has stepped into the electoral arena with the unveiling of its manifesto, titled “Didir Shopoth,” for the much-anticipated Lok Sabha Elections in 2024.

The manifesto is a comprehensive blueprint of welfare schemes designed to uplift every citizen of the country.

At the heart of “Didir Shopoth” lie promises that aim to address pressing concerns and challenges faced by the Indian populace. One of the key highlights of the manifesto is the firm commitment to repeal the contentious Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and put a halt to the National Register of Citizens (NRC).

These pledges underscore TMC’s dedication to protecting the rights and dignity of all individuals, irrespective of their background or origin.

In addition to addressing citizenship-related issues, the manifesto focuses on socioeconomic welfare measures aimed at improving the quality of life for every Indian.

For instance, “Didir Shopoth” pledges to introduce doorstep ration delivery, ensuring that essential food supplies reach every household, especially those below the poverty line (BPL).

Moreover, the manifesto promises to provide 10 free cooking cylinders annually to BPL families, alleviating the burden of fuel expenses and promoting clean cooking practices.


Also Read: Manipur’s Chief Minister, Biren Singh, Affirms Uncompromising Stance on Core Issues

Furthermore, TMC’s manifesto emphasizes the importance of economic empowerment and social security. It commits to guaranteeing employment opportunities for all citizens, thereby fostering inclusive growth and reducing unemployment rates.

Additionally, the manifesto advocates for universal housing, aiming to provide dignified shelter to every individual and family in need.

Recognizing the significance of sustainable energy practices and environmental conservation, “Didir Shopoth” promises free LPG cylinders to households across the nation.

This initiative not only promotes cleaner energy usage but also eases the financial burden on households, especially those belonging to marginalized communities.

Another key aspect of TMC’s manifesto is its focus on agriculture and rural development. The manifesto pledges to ensure a minimum support price (MSP) for farmers, safeguarding their livelihoods and promoting agricultural sustainability.

Additionally, it promises scholarships for students hailing from marginalized communities, enabling them to pursue higher education and fulfill their aspirations.

Overall, TMC’s “Didir Shopoth” embodies a vision of inclusive and equitable development, where every citizen has access to necessities, opportunities for growth, and protection of their rights.

By prioritizing welfare measures and progressive policies, TMC aims to create a more just and prosperous society for all Indians.

As the Lok Sabha Elections draw nearer, TMC’s manifesto serves as a testament to its commitment to serve the people and build a brighter future for the nation.

With its bold promises and visionary approach, “Didir Shopoth” stands as a beacon of hope for millions across the country, promising a better tomorrow for generations to come.

Manipur’s Chief Minister, Biren Singh, Affirms Uncompromising Stance on Core Issues


1. Chief Minister N. Biren Singh reaffirms Manipur resolute stance on core issues.
2. Singh emphasizes the state’s unwavering commitment to achieving lasting peace and preserving its identity.
3. He underscores Manipur’s determination to find solutions without compromising its integrity and survival.


Imphal, April 17: In an assertion of Manipur uncompromising stance on core issues, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh emphasized the state’s commitment to achieving complete peace while preserving its identity and integrity.

Speaking at the BJP Manifesto release event at the BJP office Thambal Shanglen, Singh reiterated that Manipur would not yield on vital matters, even as it seeks constructive solutions.

Singh underscored the central government’s acknowledgment of the challenges posed by illegal immigration in Manipur, highlighting measures such as border fencing, the suspension of the Free Movement Regime, and the implementation of the Inner Line Permit system.

He affirmed the state’s determination to address these issues while safeguarding the interests of its indigenous population and maintaining territorial integrity.

Citing the adverse effects of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), Singh lamented the loss of youth lives and the ongoing hardships endured by many under its shadow.

In a proactive move, the BJP government has removed the disturbed area status from 19 police stations, signaling a step towards normalcy and reconciliation.


Also Read: Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik to Run for Two Assembly Seats in Upcoming Polls

Singh also lauded the Central Government’s manifesto, which places special emphasis on the development of the Northeast region.

He urged voters to support BJP and NPF candidates to ensure the continuation of ongoing initiatives under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

During a media interaction, Singh condemned the recent attack on oil tankers along the National Highway, affirming that authorities had initiated operations to apprehend the perpetrators.

The event witnessed the presence of BJP candidate Thounaojam Basanta Kumar Singh, along with other BJP MLAs, ministers, central leaders, and state dignitaries.

Singh’s remarks underscored Manipur’s unwavering resolve to address pressing issues while remaining committed to peace, development, and the well-being of its people.

Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik to Run for Two Assembly Seats in Upcoming Polls


1. Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik, also BJD president, will run for two assembly seats.
2. He will contest from his traditional strongholds Hinjili and Kantabanji in the upcoming elections.
3. This decision reflects his strategy to broaden his presence in different regions of the state.


Bhubaneswar, April 17: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, also the president of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), has decided to contest two assembly seats in the upcoming state elections.

Alongside his traditional stronghold of Hinjili in Ganjam district, Patnaik will also vie for the Kantabanji assembly constituency in Bolangir district, situated in Western Odisha.

Patnaik’s decision to contest from two seats was revealed by himself while releasing the 5th list of nine candidates for the Assembly elections in the state.

This move mirrors his strategy from the 2019 assembly elections when he contested from both Hinjili and Bijepur assembly segments in the Bargarh district of western Odisha.

Notably, Patnaik emerged victorious in both constituencies but later resigned from Bijepur, choosing to retain the Hinjili seat.


Also Read: PM Modi’s Assam Speech: BJP’s Evolution from Hope to Trust to Guarantee

The latest list of BJD candidates, announced by Patnaik, includes six women candidates and four turncoats. Among the notable exclusions are four sitting MLAs— Purna Chandra Baka (Chitrakonda), Kishore Chandra Naik (Kuchinda), Rajnikant Singh (Angul), and Samir Ranjan Dash (Nimapara).

In a strategic move, Patnaik has nominated four turncoats to contest the assembly polls, including Arundhati Devi (Deogarh), Dillip Kumar Nayak (Nimapara), Rajendra Kumar Chhatria (Kuchinda), and Laxmipriya Nayak (Chitrakonda).

The six women candidates in the list are Laxmipriya Nayak (Chitrakonda), Barsa Singh Bariha (Padampur), Arundhati Devi (Deogarh), Sanjukta Singh (Angul), Sulkhnsa Gitanajali Devi (Samakhemundi), and Dr. Indira Nanda (Jeypore).

In a significant move, Angul MLA Rajanikant Singh was denied a party ticket, with his wife Sanjukta Singh nominated from the same seat.

Similarly, former minister and ex-MLA Rabi Nanda’s wife, Dr. Indira Nanda, received the BJD ticket for the Jeypore assembly segment in the Koraput district.

Another noteworthy decision was the nomination of S Gitanajali Devi, daughter of former MLA Nandini Devi, in the Sanakhemundi assembly segment.

Additionally, the BJD president interchanged the candidature of two leaders, with Rairakhol MLA Rohit Pujari nominated from the Sambalpur assembly segment, while Prasanna Acharya will contest from Rairakhol.

With this announcement, the BJD has revealed the names of 126 candidates out of the total 147 assembly segments in Odisha.

PM Modi’s Assam Speech: BJP’s Evolution from Hope to Trust to Guarantee


1. PM Modi’s energetic address in Nalbari, Assam, coincided with the joyous festivities of Bohag Bihu and Ram Navami.
2. Reflecting on his leadership’s evolution, Modi pledged a new era of governance characterized by unwavering commitments.
3. Assuring a transformative phase, Modi’s speech resonated with the promise of steadfast leadership and progress.


Guwahati, April 17: Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a spirited speech in Nalbari, Assam, amid festive celebrations of Bohag Bihu and Ram Navami.

He articulated the evolution of his leadership journey, promising a new phase of governance marked by firm assurances.

Journey of Hope, Trust, and Guarantee

Reflecting on his tenure, PM Modi delineated a narrative of hope, trust, and guarantee. He asserted that his arrival in 2014 heralded hope, followed by a reinforcement of trust in 2019.

Now, in 2024, he arrives with a guarantee, signaling a steadfast commitment to fulfilling promises made to the people of Assam.

Unveiling the Sankalp Patra

On the momentous occasion of Bohag Bihu, PM Modi unveiled the BJP’s Sankalp Patra, reiterating the party’s dedication to inclusive growth encapsulated in the mantra of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.”

Emphasizing the non-discriminatory nature of NDA’s schemes, PM Modi pledged to construct 3 crore new houses for the underprivileged over the next five years, ensuring equitable distribution of benefits and continued provision of free ration.

Spiritual and Agricultural Milestones

Amidst chants of ‘Jai Shri Ram,’ PM Modi celebrated the ‘Surya Tilak’ ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s spiritual journey.


Also Read: 15 ‘Crorepati’ Contenders Vie for 5 Lok Sabha Seats in Assam’s 2024 Elections

He also reiterated the government’s commitment to the welfare of farmers, highlighting measures such as increased MSP for kharif crops and substantial financial assistance through the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme.

Transformative Governance in the Northeast

PM Modi lauded the transformation of the Northeast under BJP governance, contrasting it with Congress’s legacy of fostering separatism. He showcased legislative achievements like the laws against triple talaq, empowering Muslim women and their families.

Additionally, he announced the inauguration of a semiconductor facility in Assam, projected to create over 15,000 job opportunities, underscoring the government’s commitment to regional development.

Preserving Assam’s Heritage and Culture

Recognizing Assam’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, PM Modi pledged to enhance the state’s prominence on the global tourism map. He commended BJP’s initiatives in preserving and celebrating Assam’s cultural legacy, including projects like the Kamakhya corridor and commemorations of historical figures like Lachit Borphukan.

Political Critique and Electoral Appeal

In a scathing critique of the Congress party, PM Modi condemned its disregard for Assamese sentiments and lauded Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s dedication to state development. He urged voters to support the BJP in the upcoming elections, urging them to surpass previous voting records and contribute to building a developed India.

PM Modi’s address in Assam encapsulated a vision of progress, prosperity, and cultural resurgence.

As Assam gears up for elections, his words resonate with promises of inclusive growth, regional development, and the preservation of cultural heritage, signaling a new era of governance guided by hope, trust, and unwavering guarantees.

15 ‘Crorepati’ Contenders Vie for 5 Lok Sabha Seats in Assam’s 2024 Elections


1. 15 ‘crorepati’ candidates vie for Assam’s 5 Lok Sabha seats in the April 19 elections.
2. Independent candidate Diluwara Begum Chowdhury leads with declared assets exceeding Rs one crore.
3. Trend underscores the financial diversity among candidates in Assam’s electoral landscape.


Guwahati, April 17: In the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Assam scheduled for April 19, an intriguing trend has surfaced, with 15 ‘crorepati’ candidates entering the fray for the five parliamentary seats.

Among the total of 35 candidates contesting, these individuals have declared assets surpassing Rs one crore, with independent candidate Diluwara Begum Chowdhury leading the group as the wealthiest contender, competing for the Kaziranga constituency.

The Battle for Seats: Constituencies and Candidates

The five constituencies up for grabs are Jorhat, Kaziranga, Dibrugarh, Sonitpur, and Lakhimpur. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) stands at the forefront with five candidates, trailed by three from the Congress, two from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), and one each from the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) and Bharatiya Gana Parishad (BGP). Additionally, three independent candidates have also thrown their hats into the ring.

Wealth Distribution among Political Parties

The average assets of AAP candidates top the charts at Rs six crore, followed by BJP candidates with over Rs four crore, Congress candidates with Rs three crore, and both AITC and BGP candidates with Rs one crore each.

Noteworthy Candidates and Asset Holdings

Independent candidate Diluwara Begum Chowdhury, a proprietor of fuel stations, commands the spotlight with total assets exceeding Rs 17.58 crore, a significant portion of which comprises immovable assets. Notable figures among the ‘crorepati’ candidates also include AAP’s Manoj Dhanowar and Rishiraj Kaundinya.


Also Read: ‘Surya Tilak’ illuminates Ram Lalla idol’s forehead at Ayodhya Temple on Ram Navami

Wealthy Contenders in Major Political Parties

In the BJP camp, Sonitpur nominee Ranjit Dutta emerges as the wealthiest, closely followed by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and sitting MP Topon Gogoi. Meanwhile, in the Congress ranks, Uday Shankar Hazarika and Gaurav Gogoi lead the declaration of assets, followed closely by Premlal Ganju.

Representation from Smaller Parties and Independents

Independent candidates Pradip Bhandari and Abdul Hoque, along with contenders from smaller parties like Trinamool Congress and Bharatiya Gana Parishad, also boast substantial assets.

Disparities in Asset Declarations

However, some candidates have reported considerably lesser assets, with two contestants from the Kaziranga constituency declaring assets below Rs one lakh. SUCI(C)’s Lakhimpur candidate, Pallab Pegu, stands at the bottom of the list, declaring the least with Rs 38,169.

As Assam gears up for the Lok Sabha elections, the prevalence of ‘crorepati’ candidates underscores the financial dimension of political competition in the state. With significant disparities in asset declarations, the battle for parliamentary seats in Assam promises to be an intriguing one, shaped by wealth, power, and political ambition.

‘Surya Tilak’ illuminates Ram Lalla idol’s forehead at Ayodhya Temple on Ram Navami


1. Unique event at Ayodhya’s Ram Temple: ‘Surya Tilak’ ceremony illuminates Ram Lalla’s forehead.
2. A ray of sunlight adorns the Ram Lalla idol’s forehead in a special ritual on Ram Navami.
3. Witness the divine spectacle as the grand Ram Temple marks the auspicious occasion.


Ayodhya, April 17: Today, the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya witnessed a unique event as the forehead of the Ram Lalla idol was anointed with a ray of sunlight, known as ‘Surya Tilak’, on the occasion of Ram Navami.

Innovative Scientific Approach

Employing cutting-edge scientific expertise, a 5.8-centimeter beam of light illuminated the deity’s forehead. This remarkable phenomenon was achieved through a specialized instrument designed by a team of ten esteemed Indian scientists stationed at the Ram Mandir.

The ‘Surya Tilak’ Mechanism

Commissioned by the temple trust, scientists devised a sophisticated apparatus consisting of mirrors and lenses, officially termed the ‘Surya Tilak mechanism’. Dr. Pradeep Kumar Ramacharla, Scientist and Director at the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI), Roorkee, explained the intricate workings of the optomechanical system.


Also Read: Congress Candidate in Manipur Unveils Personal Manifesto, Vows to Foster New Political Ethos

Collaboration and Execution

The development of the ‘Surya Tilak’ mechanism involved collaboration between scientists from CBRI, Roorkee, and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIAP), Bengaluru. Technical support from IIAP and the manufacturing expertise of Optica, a Bengaluru-based company, further aided the project’s execution.

Ensuring Precision and Timeliness

Dr. Pradeep Chauhan, Scientist at CBRI, expressed confidence in flawlessly anointing the statue of Ram Lalla with the ‘Surya Tilak’. Intricate arrangements involving 19 gears were implemented to ensure the timely occurrence of this auspicious ritual, without relying on electricity or batteries.

Reconciling Lunar and Solar Calendars

The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) devised a solution to reconcile the apparent disparity between the lunar and solar calendars. This ensured that the Sun’s rays ceremoniously anointed the idol of Ram Lala on every Ram Navmi.

The ‘Surya Tilak’ ceremony at Ayodhya’s Ram Temple marks a significant scientific and engineering feat, blending tradition with innovation.

It exemplifies India’s prowess in leveraging scientific expertise to uphold cultural and religious traditions

Congress Candidate in Manipur Unveils Personal Manifesto, Vows to Foster New Political Ethos


1. Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, Congress candidate for Inner Manipur Parliamentary Constituency, reveals 13-point manifesto.
2. Akoijam addresses disruptions in his campaign, citing targeted attacks and canceled meeting permissions.
3. Manifesto includes agendas such as governance accountability, educational empowerment, and indigenous cultural integration.


Imphal, April 17: In his bid to foster a new political ethos for Manipur, Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, the Congress Candidate for Inner Manipur Parliamentary Constituency, has unveiled his manifesto, outlining 13 key agendas he pledges to pursue if elected as an MP.

During the manifesto launch event, Akoijam made bold assertions regarding the disruptions in his campaign activities and the targeted attacks he has faced from unidentified assailants.

Despite facing obstacles and having his meeting permissions revoked, Akoijam remains resolute in his commitment to bring about positive change and combat the entrenched chaos within the state’s political landscape.


Also Read: NSCN-KYA Accused of Coercing Voters to Back NPP Candidate in Arunachal Assembly Elections

Outlined in his manifesto are the following agendas:

  1. Holding individuals accountable for ongoing violence and ensuring justice for internally displaced persons.
  2. Advocating for constitutional safeguards, including scheduled tribe status for the Meitei community.
  3. Supporting population policies and advocating for the implementation of the National Register of Citizens.
  4. Establishing an Economic Development Task Force.
  5. Initiating Educational Empowerment programs.
  6. Promoting inter-community dialogue and collaborative efforts.
  7. Implementing initiatives for governance accountability and oversight.
  8. Establishing a Centre for indigenous arts and cultural integration.
  9. Creating a committee to assess socio-economic and educational statuses.
  10. Advocating for a paradigm shift from military-centric approaches to civilian governance.
  11. Working to restore Manipur’s positive image.
  12. Proposing administrative reforms.
  13. Strengthening Manipur’s position within the Indian federal polity.

Despite the challenges and opposition, Akoijam remains steadfast in his belief that the will of the people will ultimately prevail, and he remains committed to representing their interests and bringing about meaningful change in Manipur.

NSCN-KYA Accused of Coercing Voters to Back NPP Candidate in Arunachal Assembly Elections


1. NSCN-KYA’s growing presence raises concerns ahead of Arunachal Pradesh elections.
2. Leaflets circulated in Longding Pumao constituency threaten repercussions for not supporting NPP candidate.
3. Residents express fear over safety amid reported sightings of armed militants coercing voters.


Itanagar, April 17: Ahead of the assembly elections in Arunachal Pradesh, concerns are mounting over the increasing influence of the NSCN-KYA militant group.

Reports indicate that the group has been distributing leaflets in villages under the Longding Pumao Assembly Constituency, threatening severe consequences for those who do not support the National People’s Party (NPP) candidate, Thangwang Wangham.

Residents in villages such as Niuasa, Longkhaw, Mintong, and Longphong have reported instances of armed militants from NSCN-KYA intimidating locals at gunpoint, coercing them to vote for Wangham.


Also Read: Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee set to address rally in Cachar today

These actions have sparked fear among residents, who worry about the safety of themselves and their families if they do not comply with the demands of the militant group.

As the elections approach, swift and decisive action must be taken to address these threats and ensure the safety and security of voters in the region.

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