India This Week~May 3, 2024

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FRIDAY MAY 3, 2024 INDIA THIS WEEK 1 A W e e k l y N e w s p a p e r Fe a t u r i n g N e w s & Tr e n d s f r o m t h e I n d i a n S u b - C o n t i n e n t P u b l i s h e d f r o m t h e U S C a p i t a l Website: www.indiathisweek.online Vol 33 No: 18 WASHINGTON DC • Phone: 301-445-0200 /301-445-3543/301-917-4800 • email: indiathisweekads@gmail.com • Friday May 3, 2024 India, UAE discuss ways to deepen Comprehensive Strategic Partnership New Delhi [India], April 30 (ANI): Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra on Tuesday held a meeting with UAE’s Minister of State for International Cooperation Reem Ebrahim Al Hashimy and discussed ways to further deepen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations. During the meeting in Delhi, Vinay Kwatra and Reem Ebrahim Al Hashimy reviewed the entire gamut of multifaceted bilateral ties. In a post on X, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra met MoS (International Cooperation) @mofauae Reem Al Hashimy in New Delhi today. They reviewed the ‘ entire gamut of our multifaceted bilateral relations, and discussed avenues to further deepen the IndiaUAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.” Earlier this month, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that in the last 10 years, the perception of India has changed to quite an extent in the Gulf country. Speaking at the South Gujarat Chamber of Commerce — Corporate Summit 2024 in Surat on Monday, Jaishankar said, “In the last 10 years, the perception about India has changed in the UAE. They signed a free trade agreement with us and today the trade with the UAE has reached about 80 billion dollars.” “Our request to build a temple there has been accepted...PM Narendra Modi went to UAE in 2016 and the last PM to go to the UAE was Indira Gandhi and after her, no PM went there till 2016” he underlined. The iconic BAPS Hindu Mandir, which is the “Prem has been instrumental in spreading Sanatan Dharma even though he lives in America,” Rai added. “After visiting the historic Ram temple, I had an idea to bring back laddoos to the United States, with a thought of further distributing it to other devotees across the world,” Bhandari told ANI. “More than 100 boxes have been dispatched, and some have been distributed in person in New York,” in addition to that in Rajasthan Association of North first Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi, was inaugurated on February 14 by Mahant Swami Maharaj in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the UAE’s Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahyan. Earlier in 2022, India and the United Arab Emirates signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) aimed at boosting the merchandise trade between the two countries to USD 100 billion over the next five years, according to a Ministry of Commerce and Industry press release. The deal was signed during the virtual summit meeting between PM Modi and Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. (ANI) America RANA’s annual Holi sneh Milan function, Ayodhya Prasadam was distributed to over 400 people,” Bhandari also said. (ANI) Overseas Friends of Ram Mandir’ US distribute 101 kg Ayodhya Laddoos globally Washington, DC [US], May 1 (ANI): As Ayodhya’s Ram Temple celebrated Ram Navami, ‘Overseas Friends of Ram Mandir’ US distributed more than 101 kg of ‘Raghupati Laddoos’ brought from Ayodhya to the United States and then further distributed them to devotees across the globe as ‘prasad’. “Of the total number of this special Indian sweet, 101 kg laddoos were distributed among devotees of Lord Ram and Hanuman in countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Norway, Canada, and UAE,” said OFRM (US) founder Prem Bhandari. The ingredients for making these laddoos Remember: have been sourced from Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir while Bhandari paid a visit to the temple. The community leader visited the temple for the first time with former Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla. During this visit, Bhandari also met with Champat Rai, a key person in the realization of the centuries-old Ayodhya Ram temple. A lifetime’s experience to visit the #AyodhyaRamMandir and offer prayers. Our friend @PremBhandariNYC ji offered 500 kgs of ladoos to mark each of the 500 years that #BhagwanRam was away from his home until the #PranPratisthan ! “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever” –PSALM

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May 3, 2024 INDIA THIS WEEK Friday Stylish S EN IOR LI V I NG Find the perfect apartment home to fit your style and budget at an Erickson Senior Living®-managed community near you! See a selection of our stunning floor plans! Call 1-888-718-7402 for your free brochure, or visit DMVSeniorLiving.com. 338809 ASHBY PONDS, Ashburn VA GREENSPRING, Springfield VA RIDERWOOD, Silver Spring MD Over 40 Years Of Experience 5 FAMILY HAIRCUT $ MEN • WOMEN • CHILDREN 81.16 pc voter turnout recorded in repolling in Outer Manipur Lok Sabha seat ROOT TOUCH-UP FOR MEN 20 & up $ SERVICES • BEARD TRIM $500 $ • SHAMPOO 1000 • BLOW DRY $1000 $ 00 • PERM FROM 20 $ 00 • COLOR FROM 20 • HIGHLIGHTS FROM $3500 • SPA PEDICURE FROM $1700 Beauty & Barber Shop 7311 Little River Turnpike, Annandale, VA 22003 info@csbarbernschool.com Imphal (Manipur) [India], April 30 (ANI): A voter turnout of 81.16 per cent was recorded at six polling stations in the Outer Manipur Lok Sabha seat, where repolling was held on Tuesday. Earlier on April 28, the Election Commission of India declared the polls conducted at six polling stations in the Outer Manipur Parliamentary Constituency as void and announced fresh elections in these stations. Voting for the 2024 Lok Sabha concluded in Manipur as 13 of the Assembly segments in the State’s Outer Manipur constituency cast their votes in the second phase of polling on Friday. Earlier, re-polling was held in 11 polling stations of the Inner Manipur constituency on April 22, after multiple incidents of violence were reported during the first phase of polling on April 19. Naga People’s Front’s (NPF) Kachui Timothy Zimik is contesting against Congress‘s Alfred K Arthur here. The first phase of voting for the sevenphased general elections was conducted successfully on April 19 in 102 constituencies across 21 states and Union Territories. Polling for the second phase in 88 seats across 13 states and Union Territories (UTs) was conducted successfully on April 26. According to the Election Commission, the overall voter turnout in the first phase was recorded at 66.14 per cent. The third phase of polling will be held on May 7. The counting of votes and results will be declared on June 4. (ANI)

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May 3, 2024 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK US: India diaspora conducts Havan for PM Modi’s resounding victory in LS elections By Reena Bhardwaj Washington, DC [US], April 29 (ANI): The Indian-American community conducted Havans across the US on Sunday, praying for the success of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Volunteers of Overseas Friends of BJP– USA, led by their President, Adapa Prasad, and Vasudev Patel, General Secretary organised Havan/Homam ceremonies nationwide. The Sudarshana Homam was held at the Sri Shiva Vishnu Temple, Sai Datta Peetham in Edison, New Jersey. During the ceremony, participants recited the Sudarshana Mantra. Hundreds of supporters of PM Modi and the BJP participated in the event for the vivtory of party in the Lok Sabha elections and PM Modi’s successive third term. Adapa Prasad commended the efforts of OFBJP volunteers, stating that “these sacred rituals evoke spiritual strength and symbolise our collective determination to support BJP‘s vision for a prosperous India under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership.” “It is a profound expression of our unwavering commitment to India’s progress and development,” he added. There was strong enthusiasm and confidence among the members of the Indian community who had gathered at the havan ceremony. IndianAmerican Krishna Reddy also exuded confidence that with divine blessings, BJP and Prime Minister Modi would achieve a resounding victory in the elections. Charan Singh, another member of Indian diaspora highlighted the strong support for BJP aong the NRI community. Kalpana Shukla praised PM Modi’s tireless efforts for the betterment of people in India and globally. Deep Bhatt highlighted the excitement among youth to support PM Modi, while Santosh Reddy noted that thousands of people were heading to India for the campaign. Another Indian- American, Vilas Reddy described it as a unified expression of support and aspiration, reflecting the collective hope for a resounding BJP victory under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. The event also drew participation from the Indian diaspora across New Jersey, with prominent community leaders and volunteers such as Padmasree awardee Sudhir Parekh, Jayesh Patel, K Narula, Rajyalaxmi, Gunjan Mishra, Harry Sethi, Madhukar Reddy, Ganesh R. Govindraj, Srikanth Reddy, Sanil, Gopi, and sidewall. The bus fell into a gorge before crash-landing on the 11th hairpin bend, the officials added. Rescue operations were still underway at the scene of the accident. Nearly 20 injured passengers were rescued and shifted to the Yercaud government hospital where they are currently under treatment. “Yercaud police have filed a complaint in connection with the accident and an investigation is underway,” a police officer said. Further details are awaited. (ANI) New Delhi [India], May 1 (ANI): Multiple schools across Delhi received a bomb threat via e-mail on Wednesday morning, following which students were evacuated. Bomb detection teams, bomb disposal squads and officials of Delhi Fire Service have been rushed to schools and search operations are underway, a police officer said. As of now, around nine schools have received bomb threats, according to a Delhi Fire official. “In the initial investigation, since yesterday, many schools across Delhi have received emails. A same pattern was followed to send threat mails. Dateline is not mentioned... BCC is mentioned in the e-mail and hence it is clear that one email has been sent to many places,” the police said. “Many schools have received bomb threats. We are investigating all the Tamil Nadu: Death Toll in Yercaud bus accident rises to 5 Salem (Tamil Nadu) [India], May 1 (ANI): The death toll in the accident involving a private bus, which fell into a gorge at Yercaud in Tamil Nadu‘s Salem on Tuesday evening, rose to 5, officials informed on Wednesday. According to the police, the private bus was heading to Salem from Yercaud with 56 passengers on board when it lost control and rolled into the gorge. While the bus was negotiating the 13th hairpin bend, the driver lost control of the vehicle as it hit the many others. Chicago In a stirring display of solidarity and devotion, IndianAmerican professionals, entrepreneurs, and residents of Chicago converged at a Hindu temple nestled in the city’s suburbs to partake in a sacred ‘havan‘ ceremony. The ‘Chandi Havan’ ceremony was conducted with utmost reverence and enthusiasm while praying for a resounding BJP victory. The event witnessed a notable presence of esteemed personalities, Washington DC Metro NRI supporters of OFBJP gathered at the ‘Sri Venkateswara Lotus Temple’ in Fairfax, Virginia, to perform a Ganapati Homam, praying for the well-being and prosperity of India and seeking Lord Ganesh’s blessings for PM Modi and BJP‘s success in the ongoing 2024 general elections. Around 50 volunteers, well-wishers, and karyakarthas attended the event, with senior priest Sriman Kesavan from Sri Venkateshwara Lotus Temple leading the ceremony. Similar havans were organized in Los Angeles, Austin, Detroit, and Raleigh. PK Naik, Anil Mahajan, Venu Uppala, Shyam Enaganti, and Raju Kurapati and other volunteers have graced these havans respectively. (ANI) handle the situation in a smooth manner. “An email was received this morning regarding a bomb threat in school. As such the students are being dispersed immediately as a precautionary measure. You are requested to kindly collect your wards from your respective bus stops. Parents are requested to kindly come and collect their wards immediately. The Bus Route Incharges will keep you updated about the movement of the buses from time to time,” the communiation to the parents read. “We got a message from the school that due to unavoidable situation, the school will remain closed today. We were not aware of the situation but later we got to know that there was a bomb threat to the school. Recently, some schools received a bomb threat email but it turned out to be a hoax,” Praveen, a parent of a school going child said. (ANI) including Prakriti Batra, the granddaughter of the late Balram Ji Tandon, former Governor of Chattisgarh. This ‘Chandi Homam’ in Chicago was graced by Amar Upadhyay, Nirmala Reddy, and Rakesh Malhotra, members of Indian diaspora. Multiple schools across DelhiNCR receive bomb threat, students evacuated; Delhi Police begin probe threats and further probe into the matter is underway,” the police added. All schools in Delhi-NCR to which threat emails have been sent have been closed as a precaution and the children have been sent back and Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is being followed, authorities said. One of the schools informed parents regarding the threat by mail and precautionary measures that has been taken by the school to

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May 3, 2024 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK PIL filed in Delhi HC against use of deepfake technologies in political campaign for Lok Sabha, assembly elections New Delhi [India], May 1 (ANI): A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been moved in the Delhi High Court seeking direction to Election Commission of India (ECI) and Union of India to formulate and implement the necessary guidelines over the pervasive use of deepfake technologies in political campaign for 2024 general elections to the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies of Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Odisha and Sikkim. Plea also sought direction to social media intermediaries including Google, Meta (Formerly Facebook) and X Corp (Formerly Twitter) to take down and block Deepfake content/ concerning political candidates/ representatives/ leaders and/or public figures on their respective social media platforms until the declaration of the results of the General Elections on June 4, 2024. The plea was mentioned by the senior advocate Jayant Mehta for urgent listing of the matter before the bench led by acting Chief Justice Manmohan. Court said it may hear the matter on Thursday if all the relevant documents are filed in the registry on time today. Plea moved by an organisation named Lawyer Voice submits that the utilization of deepfake technologies, along with the dissemination of misinformation on social media platforms and the internet, directly and significantly undermines the possibility of a free and fair election. Plea further stated that, several international organizations and countries have similarly observed the troubling potential of deepfake technologies for free and fair elections. For instance, political parties in the European Union have entered into a voluntary From The Poet’s Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- APRIL 26, 2024 Don’t Quit Edgar Albert Guest When things go wrong, as they sometimes will, When the road you’re trudging seems all uphill, When the funds are low and the debts are high, and you want to smile but you have to sigh, when care is pressing you down a bit – rest if you must, but don’t quit. Life is queer with its twists and turns. As everyone of us sometimes learns. And many a fellow turns about when he might have won had he stuck it out. Don’t give up though the pace seems slow – you may succeed with another blow. Often the goal is nearer than it seems to a faint and faltering man; Often the struggler has given up when he might have captured the victor’s cup; and he learned too late when the night came down, how close he was to the golden crown. Success is failure tuned inside out – the silver tint of the clouds of doubt, and when you never can tell how close you are, It may be near when it seems afar; So stick to the fight when you’re hardest hit – it’s when things seem worst, you must not quit. code of conduct under the EU charter on fair campaigning, where they have committed to refraining from the usage of deepfake technologies during the elections to be held between 6th June to 9th June 2024. This rapid dissemination of deepfake content concerning political representatives / leaders or public figures is uniquely dangerous in two ways. Firstly, this would mean that the outcome or result of an election may be manipulated by third parties by misleading the general public, thereby infringing on their right to choose their political representatives freely, it said. The existence of this unregulated technology would also mean that the general electorate is unable to hold their representatives accountable, if they are not able to differentiate between authentic and falsified words and actions. In this manner, the existence and usage of deepfake technologies threatens the very foundation of a free and fair election, plea stated. The existing statutory framework under both civil and criminal law is fairly insufficient in order to address the harms of deepfake technologies, plea read. (ANI) INDIA THIS WEEK Address: P.O. Box 352, Bryans Road, MD 20616 Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800 www.indiathisweek.online India This Week is published every Friday by ADV Solutions Inc, Views expressed in this paper are those of the individual writers and not necessarily of India This Week. India This Week accepts no liability for the errors in advertisements or in any of its reports. For remedial actions any errors should be brought to the attention of the editor by the information provided below. Publisher: Chief Editor: Contributing Editors: Dr. Babu Stephen Rajan George Saju Mathew Isaac George Asst. Editors: Manu Jacob Sherena Panjikkaran Special Business Correspondent Elisha B. Pulivarti Business Coordinators Rajan C. George Jithu Johny Panjikkaran Dr. Renuka Misra, Special Correspondent: Geeta Goindi Community Coordinator: Prof. Vinod Goel India Office Manesh Krishna Columnists: Anadi Naik World Religions Dr. Sam Prasad Jillella Photo Journalist: Mathew Karmel, System Admn. & Maintenance: Rajan C. George Layout & Graphics: Prinston Samuel, Business Affairs: Mrs. Molly George CALL US • 301-445-0200 • 301-917-4800 e-Mails: Advertisements: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Press Releases: indiathisweekpress@yahoo.com Web: www.indiathisweek.online “As long as I am alive, there will be no religion-based reservation”: PM Modi Banaskantha (Gujarat) [India], May 1 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday that the Congress, which had targeted him in 2014 as a ‘tea-seller’, had got such a reply from the country that the party which once used to occupy 400 seats, is now being brought down to 40 only. Addressing the Vijay Vishwas meeting here today, PM Modi said that the government that was there before 2014 in Centre was only known for news of terrorism, scams and corruption all around the country. “This Congress ‘Jamat’ should listen, as long as Modi is alive, there will be no reservation on the basis of religion. Reservations for SC, ST, and OBCs have been given by the Constitution, and no one can take them away,” he added. PM Modi also challenged the Congress to declare that they would not provide reservations on the basis of religion. “Today, I want to challenge the prince of Congress and his party to declare that if they have the courage, they will never provide reservations on the basis of religion and will not play with the Constitution. They will not do this because “Dal mein kuch kaala hai,” he said. PM Modi also emphasised that as long as the BJP is there, reservations will be protected. “The prince of Congress proudly called the entire Modi and OBC communities thieves. No opportunity is being left to spread hatred against Gujaratis. In 2024, Congress and the INDI Alliance have come up with the new lie that reservations will end. Those who are talking about 400 seats, even today, the NDA has around 360 seats in the Parliament, and parties like BJD and YSRCP, which were not in our alliance, supported us anyway. I had the strength of 400 in Parliament. But we did not commit the sin of withdrawing the reservation,” PM Modi said. Sharpening his attacks on Congress, the Prime Minister added that even today, Congress has no issues, no vision, and no passion to work. “The country was immersed in despair. I left no stone unturned in my efforts. I spent every moment in the name of my countrymen and the country. I tried to take the country out of that troubled situation. “In 2014, Congress tried to belittle me by calling me “chai wala” and doubted what I could do for the country. I was made fun of. But the country gave them such an answer that the party that once used to occupy 400 seats, now being brought down to 40 only,” he said. Further, PM Modi asserted that results of the 2024 election will come out on June 4, but he has prepared a plan for what to do in the first 100 days in his third term. “We are going to come up with new resolutions for the development of the welfare of the poor and farmers. I am not going to be satisfied with winning just 26 seats (in Gujarat), but have to win every booth. When every vote goes to Modi, then the guarantee will be confirmed,” he added. Remember: “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. ” JESUS CHRIST

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May 3, 2024 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Prime Minister Narendra Modi extends greetings on Gujarat’s Statehood Day Gandhinagar (Gujarat) [India], May 1 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his greetings to the people of Gujarat on the occasion of Gujarat‘s Statehood Day. Taking to his official X handle, the Prime Minister tweeted, “On this auspicious occasion of Gujarat‘s Statehood Day, we remember the rich cultural heritage, remarkable achievements, and vibrant spirit of the people of Gujarat.” He also wished the state prosperity and added, “May the state continue to flourish, prosper, and inspire generations with its ethos of entrepreneurship, resilience, and inclusive development. My best wishes to the people of Gujarat.” In another tweet, PM Modi said, “Greetings on Gujarat Sthapana Diwas. Gujarat has made a mark due to its all-round progress as well as its unique culture. I pray that the state continues to scale new heights of development in the times ahead.” Meanwhile, Home Minister Amit Shah also extended his wishes on Gujarat‘s Statehood Day and tweeted, “Best wishes to all Gujaratis on the occasion of Gujarat Foundation Day.” Lauding Gujarat, Shah said that the state is popular for its rich culture and is playing a significant role in the development of the country. “Famous for its rich culture, generous hospitality, and natural beauty, Gujarat has made an unforgettable contribution to the unification of the country, right from the independence movement. Today, Gujarat is making an important contribution to the development of the country with its hard work, dedication, and cooperation. On the foundation day, I wish the best progress and all-round development to the sisters and brothers of Gujarat,” he tweeted. Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya who is contesting from Porbandar in the Lok Sabha elections also wished the people of the state on the occasion. “My Gujarat, Proud Gujarat” Where there is devotion to Somnath Mahadev and Dwarkadhish, this stream has the power to change history. Not only the people, there is a sense of positivity in every particle here, that’s why Gujarat is the land of choice for people from all over the world. Best wishes on Gujarat Foundation Day,” he posted on X. G u j a r a t Foundation Day or Gujarat Sthapana Divas is celebrated every year on May 1. Two states, Maharashtra and Gujarat, were created after the partition of Bombay based on language in 1960. (ANI) Indore (Madhya Pradesh) [India], May 1 (ANI): Leader of Opposition of Madhya Pradesh assembly, Umang Singhar on Wednesday took a jibe at Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia saying he is Singhar not Scindia. Singhar made the remark while speaking to reporters in Indore when questioned about joining Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). “They (BJP) keep contacting every day. They have been doing so for many years. I did not go even when the government was toppled in 2020 and various kinds of temptations were offered. I am Umang Singhar, not Scindia. Various BJP people tried to contact right from Bhopal to Delhi,” he said. Notably, a political upheaval rocked the state in 2020 after the thenCongressman Jyotiraditya Scindia, along with 22 loyalist MLAs, switched over to the BJP camp. Following which, the Congress government led by Kamal Nath that had come to power in 2018 after a long wait of 15-years collapsed after being reduced to a minority and the BJP formed the government in the state. The BJP brought Scindia into Parliament via the Rajya Sabha and made him a Union minister. Besides, when asked about state cabinet minister Govind Singh claiming Congress Chief Jitu Patwari will also join BJP, Singhar said that Patwari is not going anywhere.“Jitu Patwari is state Congress chief and he is not going anywhere. I don’t think he has talked to anyone,” Singhar added. State Minister Govind Singh Rajput on Labour Day: Kharge highlights Congress’ five guarantees to ensure workers’ justice, calls it “special day” New Delhi [India], May 1 (ANI): Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge, on Wednesday, on the occasion of International Labour Day, emphasised the party’s “five guarantees” to ensure “self-respect” of those working in the unorganised sector if voted to power. Kharge called it a “special day” for him recalling his tenure as Union Labour Minister. “Today is Labour Day. Today is a special day for me. I started my life advocating for the rights of workers. As the Union Labour Minister, I made many efforts to make the lives of workers easier and happier. Our workers have a unique contribution to building the foundation of the country. With hours of hard work, toil and struggle, they ensure their integral participation in nationbuilding,” Kharge said in a post on X. Highlighting the Congress party’s guarantees, Kharge referred to the ongoing parliamentary elections as an “opportunity to secure the rights” of labourers across the country “The 18th Lok Sabha elections is an opportunity to secure the rights of the labourers and workers of the country. In this election, the Congress Party has given 5 justices and 25 guarantees. Our “Labor Justice” has brought many revolutionary steps especially to ensure adequate remuneration to the workers and to protect them from exploitationRight to health, Respect for labour, Urban Employment Guarantee, Social Security, Secure employment,” the post mentioned. “ C o n g r e s s guarantees that after our government is formed, we will ensure self-respect of the labourers, workers and our brothers and sisters working in the unorganised sector. These 5 guarantees will be implemented in letter and spirit under workers’ justice. Shramev Jayate Jai Hind! #LabourDay,” he added. In the poll manifesto, the Congress party has promised to implement a minimum wage of Rs 400 per day under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005 (MGNREGA) among others. (ANI) Tuesday said, “This is the first time I’m seeing that Lok Sabha candidates are withdrawing their names, and some are even leaving Congress. Jitendra (Jitu) Patwari was the one who nominated a candidate of his choice from Indore, and now when that candidate has withdrawn his candidature, Jitendra (Jitu) Patwari says he has been poached. Lakhs of Congress leaders are joining the BJP across the country. And if this continues, by May 7, Jitu Patwari will also join BJP.” Lok Sabha polls in Madhya Pradesh are being conducted in four phases. The first phase of polling was held on April 19 and the second phase was concluded on April 26. The next two phases will be conducted on May 7 and May 13. The counting of votes will be held on June 4. (ANI) On reports of him switching to BJP, Madhya Pradesh LOP says “I am Umang Singhar not Scindia” To Place Advertisements Call: 301-445-0200 • 301-917-4800 Email:indiathisweekads@gmail.com Indiathisweek.online

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Delhi Excise Policy case: SC questions ED on timing of Kejriwal’s arrest, seeks response New Delhi [India], April 30 (ANI): The Supreme Court on Tuesday questioned the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on the timing of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest ahead of the 2024 general elections and asked the central agency to respond. A bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta asked Additional Solicitor General SV Raju to reply to the question of the timing on Friday when the matter will be taken up for hearing. “Liberty is very exceedingly important, you can’t deny that. The last question is with regard to the timing of the arrest, whichA they (Kejriwal’s counsel) have pointed out, the timing of the arrest, soon before the general elections. The last question is regarding the timing of the arrest,” asked Justice Khanna while asking Raju to respond to certain questions. The apex court also asked ASG Raju why there was a huge gap between the initiation of the proceedings (registration of case) and the arrest of Kejriwal. Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi argued for about two hours for Kejriwal. Kejriwal had approached the top court challenging his arrest by ED and his subsequent remand in the excise policy case. The apex court had earlier asked the central agency to file its response to Kejriwal’s plea. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Kejriwal had challenged a Delhi High Court judgement that dismissed his plea against arrest by the ED and his subsequent remand in the excise policy case. Kejriwal, while filing an appeal in the apex court had contended that his arrest after the announcement of the General Elections was “motivated by extraneous considerations”. On April 9, the High Court dismissed his plea for release from jail and rejected his argument of political vendetta amid the looming Lok Sabha elections. The High Court had said that Kejriwal’s absence from nine ED summons over six months undermined any claims of special privilege as Chief Minister, suggesting his arrest was an inevitable consequence of his noncooperation. Kejriwal was arrested by the ED on March 21 in connection FRIDAY MAY 3, 2024 9 SALE ENDS MAY 31-2024 Guwahati’s first-time voters prioritise education in ongoing LS polls Guwahati (Assam) [India], May 1 (ANI): The first time voters in Guwahati Lok Sabha constituency are gearing up to exercise their constitutional right with zeal and enthusiasm in the third phase of polls which are scheduled to be held on May 7. The primary concern for the young voters is an all-round development works for a better India, which according to them, can be done only a stable government. K a s h m i r i Das, a young voter of Guwahati said that the new government should give importance to resolve the unemployment issue. “Unemployment is one of the big issues. The current government has launched many schemes and we want that the new government should implement the schemes properly. The new government should also with a money laundering probe relating to alleged irregularities in the nowcancelled Delhi excise policy 2021-22. (ANI) give importance to resolve the unemployment issue,” Kashmiri Das said. Gautam Deka, another young voter said that the government should focus on the education system. “Many capable students wouldn’t able to get admission due to shortage of seats and the government should give importance on it,” Gautam Deka said. Anushka Parasar, a youth voter of Guwahati said that the government should focus on improvement of the education system, women empowerment etc. “We are youth and our main concern is that what the government is doing for the development of youth. We want that the government should do for development of youth, women empowerment, middle class people. We want a stable government,” Anushka Parasar said. The third phase of polls for four parliamentary constituencies in Assam – Guwahati, Barpeta, Kokrajhar and Dhubri will be held on May 7. As many as 47 candidates are in fray in the third phase of polls in the state and more than 81 lakh voters of four Lok Sabha constituencies will exercise their franchise. (ANI)

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