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More UP elections news

Who is the real majority in India? We deep dive into the first past the post system! 

UP Election 2022: Chunaav Pe Charcha | EJ In-depth: Who is the majority? The winner takes all system 

Democracy: Of the people, by the people, for the people. Who are these people? The majority. And in the world’s largest democracy, what is a majority? If one were to look at the numbers – a very skewed picture presents itself! In this EJ in-depth, we are going to take a deep dive into India's first past the post system of electing a government. Is it really the majority that elects? 

Democracy: Of the people, by the people, for the people. Who are these people? The majority. And in the world&rsquo;s largest democracy, what is a majority?&nbsp;If one were to look at the numbers &ndash; a very skewed picture presents itself!&nbsp;In this EJ in-depth, we are going to take a deep dive into India's first past the post system of electing a government. Is it really the majority that elects?

Who is the real majority in India? We deep dive into the first past the post system!&nbsp;

As election season inches closer, massive rallies with seas of people as far as the eye can see give a shining picture of our country as the world&rsquo;s largest democracy. A fact that no party in power ever loses an opportunity to remind us - however as many say, the devil lies in the detail and a breakdown of India&rsquo;s first past the post election system begs one to ask the question - what is the majority in India?
India votes as per the first past the post system, also known as the system of winner takes all. Simply broken down, this method of voting means that each person of the electorate gets one vote and the candidates who gets the most votes wins - regardless of what their vote share is.
This system works for a multiparty set up like India, where a simple majority is tough to reach.&nbsp;But that being said, as with all other systems - there are loopholes and shortcoming in this one too.
One of the largest criticisms about FPTP is that it&rsquo;s not representative in nature. Minorities, on account of never being able to beat out winning candidates in securing a greater number of votes, end up missing out on the opportunity of getting a seat at the decision-making table.
Another criticism is that since it&rsquo;s about the candidate who gets the greatest number of votes - the gap between the people who actually voted for you, versus the entire population is very wide. Let&rsquo;s try to understand this using the example of Amethi constituency in Uttar Pradesh.
In the 2017 Assembly election, Amethi had about 3 lakhs 34 thousand eligible electors. Of this only 1 lakh 87 thousand voted. That is a 56% voter turnout. Of this turn out - only 64,226 picked Garima Singh as their MLA - just 34% of the voters, and only 19% of the eligible voters. Despite the fact that a BJP MLA was not picked by 81% of the population in her constituency - we still call this the popular vote.
Another facet of the FPTP is that there is no correlation between the vote shares and the seats secured. In 2017, the SP had a 21.8% vote share, and the BSP a 22.2% vote share, however despite the fact that BSP had more votes in terms of numbers, the SP secured 47 seats and the BSP only 19. This is because it&rsquo;s not about the votes that are polled but the margins of victory and loss in each constituency.
The numbers are a little confusing, but what are the other alternatives?
Some have suggested a proportional representation system which is about allotting seats in the ratio of the vote share. If a party has 30% votes, give them 30% seats - it sounds simpler than it is. Many say that this is a logistical nightmare and can lead to severely unstable governments. In fact, arguing against the system of proportional representation, Dr.B R Ambedkar had said that reservation is a far better safeguard to the rights of minorities and marginalised groups.
Let&rsquo;s take a look at the numbers as they stand in UP today. In 2017, the BJP secured close to 40%&nbsp;of the total votes polled. The voter turnout was at an impressive 61.04% of the electorate. However, this number diminishes to 24.2% of the people who were actually eligible to vote. Another way of looking at it is&nbsp;75.8% of eligible voters in the state didn&rsquo;t support BJP.&nbsp;
It has been the same story nationally since the start.&nbsp;
 No party, not even Congress under Jawaharlal Nehru, has won 50% vote share in any national elections, beginning 1951. The most a party has got is 48% under Rajiv Gandhi in 1984. The Congress won 404 of 514 Lok Sabha seats after Indira Gandhi's assassination.
 For four decades after Independence, Congress ruled the country with just over 40% voteshare.
 As the Congress domination waned and coalition era kicked in in late 80s and 90s, vote share of the main winning party plunged to 30%. 1996 to 2009, parties formed govts with less than 30% voteshare. The winning party's voteshare again crossed 30% when Narendra Modi-led BJP swept to power.&nbsp; So is there some confusion about &lsquo;majority&rsquo; in our country? Yes
There then remains only one way to lessen the gap in the numbers - and you know it already! Go vote! The biggest tool in our hands when it comes to making the assembly more representative in nature is to make sure that we exercise our sacred right to vote. There is enough time, so if you haven&rsquo;t already - make sure to go and get your voter ID card made, and make these elections as democratic as possible!

 
 
A 25-year-old Muslim man died after being beaten up allegedly by his neighbours in Uttar Pradesh's Kushinagar district for participating in the BJP's election campaign and celebrating its victory in the recently-held state polls, police said on Sunday.
Babar Ali, who was thrashed on March 20 in Kathargarhi, died during treatment in Lucknow, and when his body reached the village on Sunday, his family members refused to perform last rites and demanded the arrest of the perpetrators, they said.
However, local MLA PN Pathak and other officials reached there, and the family agreed to bury Ali's body.
Later, police arrested two accused and said the hunt is on to nab two more people.
Police said Ali was allegedly targeted by his neighbours for apparently participating in the BJP's campaigning and celebrating its victory in the assembly polls.
On the complaint of the victim's wife, Fatima Khatoon, police registered a case against Azimullah, Arif, Salma and Tahid under the Indian Penal Code on March 21 and among the four, Arif and Tahid have been arrested.
As per reports, Ali campaigned for Pathak, a BJP leader, during the assembly election and on the day of victory, he not only burst crackers but also distributed sweets.
His neighbours became very angry, threatened him with dire consequences and on March 20 , they surrounded him in his house and started beating him up with sticks, police said.
When he climbed to the roof of the house, to save himself, they threw him down from there, they said.
Ali's brother Chande Alam and Fatima told reporters that they went to police and other officials several times to get protection from their neighbours but no one cared.
Pathak said that the culprits won't be spared and strict action will be taken against them.
"On March 21 a case was registered in which one Baba Ali was injured after he was beaten up. On March 25 , he died and among two accused Arif and Tahid have been arrested and sent to jail and the rest of the accused will be soon arrested. The accused and victim are of the same community," Circle Officer Khadda Sandeep Verma said.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has expressed condolences on death of Ali and expressed his gratitude towards his family.
He directed officials to conduct an unbiased probe into the matter.

Uttar Pradesh polls: Muslim man who celebrated BJP win thrashed, dies at hospital; 2 held

In Uttar&nbsp;Pradesh, two people have been arrested after a Muslim man, who participated in BJP's&nbsp;victory celebrations was allegedly thrashed by his neighbours. 25-year-old Babar&nbsp;Ali was beaten up on March 20 in Kathargarhi, and died during treatment in Lucknow.&nbsp; As per reports, Ali campaigned for a&nbsp;BJP leader during the assembly election and on the day of victory, he not only burst crackers but also distributed sweets. His neighbours became very angry, threatened him with dire consequences and on March 20 , they surrounded him in his house and started beating him up with sticks.
When he climbed to the roof of the house, to save himself, they threw him down from there. On the complaint of Babar's wife police filed a case and arrested two of the accused while a hunt is on for two others.&nbsp;
His family members refused to perform last rites and demanded the arrest of the perpetrators however he was laid to rest after assurance&nbsp;from&nbsp;local officials.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

As per reports, Ali campaigned for a&nbsp;BJP leader during the assembly election and on the day of victory, he not only burst crackers but also distributed sweets.

A 25-year-old Muslim man died after being beaten up allegedly by his neighbours in Uttar Pradesh's Kushinagar district for participating in the BJP's election campaign and celebrating its victory in the recently-held state polls, police said on Sunday.
Babar Ali, who was thrashed on March 20 in Kathargarhi, died during treatment in Lucknow, and when his body reached the village on Sunday, his family members refused to perform last rites and demanded the arrest of the perpetrators, they said.
However, local MLA PN Pathak and other officials reached there, and the family agreed to bury Ali's body.
Later, police arrested two accused and said the hunt is on to nab two more people.
Police said Ali was allegedly targeted by his neighbours for apparently participating in the BJP's campaigning and celebrating its victory in the assembly polls.
On the complaint of the victim's wife, Fatima Khatoon, police registered a case against Azimullah, Arif, Salma and Tahid under the Indian Penal Code on March 21 and among the four, Arif and Tahid have been arrested.
As per reports, Ali campaigned for Pathak, a BJP leader, during the assembly election and on the day of victory, he not only burst crackers but also distributed sweets.
His neighbours became very angry, threatened him with dire consequences and on March 20 , they surrounded him in his house and started beating him up with sticks, police said.
When he climbed to the roof of the house, to save himself, they threw him down from there, they said.
Ali's brother Chande Alam and Fatima told reporters that they went to police and other officials several times to get protection from their neighbours but no one cared.
Pathak said that the culprits won't be spared and strict action will be taken against them.
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/on-camera-brawl-over-birbhum-killings-in-bengal-assembly-mlas-tear-clothes-1648454794034" target="_blank">On camera: brawl over Birbhum killings in Bengal Assembly, MLAs tear clothes&nbsp;</a>
"On March 21 a case was registered in which one Baba Ali was injured after he was beaten up. On March 25 , he died and among two accused Arif and Tahid have been arrested and sent to jail and the rest of the accused will be soon arrested. The accused and victim are of the same community," Circle Officer Khadda Sandeep Verma said.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has expressed condolences on death of Ali and expressed his gratitude towards his family.
He directed officials to conduct an unbiased probe into the matter.

As Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party lost UP Elections to BJP, a fan of SP chief lost his bike to a BJP supporter.
Akhilesh supporter in UP's Banda, Awadhesh, had placed a bet with a BJP fan before polls. As results came in as SP lost, Awadhesh handed over his bike to the BJP supporter.
But the story didn't end there. When Akhilesh got to know of his fan's loss, the SP chief called up Awadhesh, according to the news agency ANI.
Awadhesh told ANI that Akhilesh Yadav gave him a gold chain and a piece of adivce to not indulge in bets anymore.
In a similar incident, a Samajwadi Party supporter lost 4 bighas land in a bet with a BJP supporter in UP's Badaun.

Here's what Akhilesh Yadav told his fan who lost his bike in poll bet with BJP supporter

As Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party lost UP Elections to BJP, a fan of SP chief lost his bike to a BJP supporter.
Akhilesh supporter in UP's Banda, Awadhesh, had placed a bet with a BJP fan before polls. As results came in as SP lost, Awadhesh handed over his bike to the BJP supporter.
But the story didn't end there. When Akhilesh got to know of his fan's loss, the SP chief called up Awadhesh, according to the news agency ANI.
Awadhesh told ANI that Akhilesh Yadav gave him a gold chain and a piece of adivce to not indulge in bets anymore.
Byte: Awadhesh, Akhilesh&nbsp;fan:&nbsp;
In a similar incident, a Samajwadi Party supporter lost 4 bighas land in a bet with a BJP supporter in UP's Badaun.

UP Election:&nbsp;Akhilesh supporter in UP's Banda, Awadhesh, had placed a bet with a BJP fan before polls

As Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party lost UP Elections to BJP, a fan of SP chief lost his bike to a BJP supporter.
Akhilesh supporter in UP's Banda, Awadhesh, had placed a bet with a BJP fan before polls. As results came in as SP lost, Awadhesh handed over his bike to the BJP supporter.
But the story didn't end there. When Akhilesh got to know of his fan's loss, the SP chief called up Awadhesh, according to the news agency ANI.
Awadhesh told ANI that Akhilesh Yadav gave him a gold chain and a piece of adivce to not indulge in bets anymore.
In a similar incident, a Samajwadi Party supporter lost 4 bighas land in a bet with a BJP supporter in UP's Badaun.
ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/elections/up-elections/up-results-how-farm-anger-fizzled-in-elections-west-up-spot-of-farmer-deaths-in-lakhimpur-voted-bjp-1646933565543">UP results: How farm anger fizzled in elections; west UP, spot of farmer deaths in Lakhimpur voted BJP</a>

A day after the BJP's spectacular victory in Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut took a jibe at BSP chief Mayawati and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi.
The Sena MP said that the two leaders should be conferred with Padma Vibhushan and Bharat Ratna for contributing to BJP's win.
Opposition parties have consistently called Owaisi BJP's B team. Asaduddin Owaisi fielded candidates on 100 seats in UP and scored a duck.
Mayawati was also accused of lying low in these elections to help the BJP.
On its dismal performance in Goa, Uttar Pradesh and Manipur, Shiv Sena chief spokesperson Sanjay Raut said his party received less votes than NOTA (none of the above) because it fell “short of the notes” the BJP used.

Here's why Shiv Sena's Sanjay Raut thinks Owaisi and Mayawati must get Bharat Ratna

A day after the BJP's spectacular victory in Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut took a jibe at BSP chief Mayawati and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi.
The Sena MP said that the two leaders should be conferred with Padma Vibhushan and Bharat Ratna for contributing to BJP's win.
Byte Sanjay&nbsp;Raut:&nbsp;
Opposition parties have consistently called Owaisi BJP's B team. Asaduddin Owaisi fielded candidates on 100 seats in UP and scored a duck.
Mayawati was also accused of lying low in these elections to help the BJP.

UP results: A day after the BJP's spectacular victory in UP, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut took a jibe at BSP chief Mayawati and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi

A day after the BJP's spectacular victory in Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut took a jibe at BSP chief Mayawati and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi.
The Sena MP said that the two leaders should be conferred with Padma Vibhushan and Bharat Ratna for contributing to BJP's win.
Opposition parties have consistently called Owaisi BJP's B team. Asaduddin Owaisi fielded candidates on 100 seats in UP and scored a duck.
Mayawati was also accused of lying low in these elections to help the BJP.
On its dismal performance in Goa, Uttar Pradesh and Manipur, Shiv Sena chief spokesperson Sanjay Raut said his party received less votes than NOTA (none of the above) because it fell &ldquo;short of the notes&rdquo; the BJP used.

Reacting to UP polll results where BJP scored a thumping win, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav on Friday put up a brave face.
He tweeted that his party has “shown that the BJP's seats can be reduced in the state assembly".
The Samajwadi Party increased its tally from 47 seats in 2017 to 111 in these polls. BJP has won 255 seats in comparison to 312 in the last polls.
BSP chief Mayawati, who party faced a crushing defeat in these polls with just 1 seat, said that the party needs to learn from the pol debacle.
"UP election results are opposed to BSP's expectations. We should not be discouraged by it. Instead we should learn form it, introspect and carry forward our party movement, and come back to power," the BSP leader said.
"Before 2017 BJP did not have a good stake in Uttar Pradesh. Likewise today, Congress also undergoing the same phase as BJP...UP election result is a lesson for us to continue putting in efforts," she added.

UP Election 2022: Here's what Akhilesh and Mayawati said after BJP's landslide win

Reacting to UP poll results where BJP scored a thumping win, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav on Friday put up a brave face.
He tweeted that his party has &ldquo;shown that the BJP's seats" can be reduced in the state assembly".
The Samajwadi Party increased its tally from 47 seats in 2017 to 111 in these polls. BJP has won 255 seats in comparison to 312 in the last polls.
BSP chief Mayawati, who party faced a crushing defeat in these polls with just 1 seat, said that the party needs to learn from the poll debacle.
Mayawati&nbsp;byte:&nbsp;

UP results 2022: Akhilesh&nbsp;Yadav&nbsp;tweeted that SP has&ldquo;shown that the BJP's seats can be reduced in the state assembly"

Reacting to UP poll results where BJP scored a thumping win, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav on Friday put up a brave face.
He tweeted that his party has &ldquo;shown that the BJP's seats can be reduced in the state assembly".
The Samajwadi Party increased its tally from 47 seats in 2017 to 111 in these polls. BJP has won 255 seats in comparison to 312 in the last polls.
BSP chief Mayawati, who party faced a crushing defeat in these polls with just 1 seat, said that the party needs to learn from the poll debacle.
"UP election results are opposed to BSP's expectations. We should not be discouraged by it. Instead we should learn from it, introspect and carry forward our party movement, and come back to power," the BSP leader said.
"Before 2017 BJP did not have a good stake in Uttar Pradesh. Likewise today, Congress also undergoing the same phase as BJP...UP election result is a lesson for us to continue putting in efforts," she added.

While the BJP scored an emphatic win in Uttar Pradesh, as many as 11 ministers in the Yogi Adityanath government failed to win in the 2022 assembly elections.
The biggest upset of them all is Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya, who lost to SP alliance candidate Pallavi Patel from Sirathu seat in Kaushambhi district.
Patel is the vice-president of Apna Dal (K), a Samajwadi Party ally.
Western UP, Sugarcane minister Suresh Rana lost the Thana Bhawan seat in Shamli district to the RLD's Ashraf Ali Khan by over 10,000 votes.
Another minister, Chhatrapal Singh Gangwar, was defeated by Ataur Rehman of the Samajwadi Party on the Baheri seat in Bareilly district.
Other ministers who lost the election are Rural development minister Rajendra Pratap Singh from Pratapgarh, Chandrika Prasad Upadhyay in Chitrakoot, Anand Swaroop Shukla in Bariya, Sports minister Upendra Tiwari from Phephna, Ranvendra Singh Dhunni from Hussain Ganj, Lakhan Singh Rajput from Dibiyapur, Basic education minister Satish Chandra Dwivedi from Itwa, and Sangeeta Balwant from Gazipur.

UP Election 2022: Dy CM Maurya, 10 other Yogi ministers lose despite a BJP wave in state 

UP Dy CM Keshav&nbsp;Prasad&nbsp;Murya&nbsp;loses even as BJP&nbsp;scores big
11 ministers in Yogi govt taste defeat despite saffron wave
In West, Sugarcane minister Suresh&nbsp;Rana&nbsp;loses to RLD candidate
&nbsp;

UP Assembly Results: The biggest upset of them all is Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya, who lost to SP alliance candidate Pallavi Patel from Sirathu seat in Kaushambhi district

While the BJP scored an emphatic win in Uttar Pradesh, as many as 11 ministers in the Yogi Adityanath government failed to win in the 2022 assembly elections.
The biggest upset of them all is Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya, who lost to SP alliance candidate Pallavi Patel from Sirathu seat in Kaushambhi district.
Patel is the vice-president of Apna Dal (K), a Samajwadi Party ally.
Western UP, Sugarcane minister Suresh Rana lost the Thana Bhawan seat in Shamli district to the RLD's Ashraf Ali Khan by over 10,000 votes.
Another minister, Chhatrapal Singh Gangwar, was defeated by Ataur Rehman of the Samajwadi Party on the Baheri seat in Bareilly district.
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/elections/up-elections/up-results-how-farm-anger-fizzled-in-elections-west-up-spot-of-farmer-deaths-in-lakhimpur-voted-bjp-1646933565543" target="_blank">UP results: How farm anger fizzled in elections; west UP, spot of farmer deaths in Lakhimpur voted BJP</a>
Other ministers who lost the election are Rural development minister Rajendra Pratap Singh from Pratapgarh, Chandrika Prasad Upadhyay in Chitrakoot, Anand Swaroop Shukla in Bariya, Sports minister Upendra Tiwari from Phephna, Ranvendra Singh Dhunni from Hussain Ganj, Lakhan Singh Rajput from Dibiyapur, Basic education minister Satish Chandra Dwivedi from Itwa, and Sangeeta Balwant from Ghazipur.

As BJP celebrated its thumping win in UP, bulldozer has become the mascot of party's victory.
BJP workers took out bulldozer rallies in several cities of UP, including the Capital Lucknow.
Videos of BJP workers conducting processions on Bulldozers have gone viral.
Not just party workers and supporters of the saffron party, even Kanpur Mayor Pramila Pandey made a unique entry on top of a bulldozer to join the party's celebrations.
Just to recap, Yogi Adityanath government during the campaign had flaunted bulldozer as the symbol of crushing of mafias and gunda raaj in the state during the BJP rule.
SP chief Akhilesh Yadav had called Yogi "bulldozer baba", a taunt that clearly turned into a victory mantra for the BJP.

UP Election 2022 | Watch: How bulldozer has become mascot of Yogi's thumping win

((start with Yogi byte: Dekho&nbsp;bulldozer dikha rahe hain))
Breathe song bulldozer baba&nbsp;zindabad))
As BJP celebrated its thumping win in UP, bulldozer has become the mascot of party's victory.
BJP workers took out bulldozer rallies in several cities of UP, including the Capital Lucknow.
Videos of BJP workers conducting processions on Bulldozers have gone viral.
((Kanpur&nbsp;mayor on bulldozer shots, breathes))
Not just party workers and supporters of the saffron party, even Kanpur Mayor Pramila Pandey made a unique entry on top of a bulldozer to join the party's celebrations.
Just to recap, Yogi Adityanath government during the campaign had flaunted bulldozer as the symbol of crushing of mafias and gunda raaj in the state during the BJP rule.
SP chief Akhilesh Yadav had called Yogi "bulldozer baba", a taunt that clearly turned into a victory mantra for the BJP.

UP Results:&nbsp;BJP workers took out bulldozer rallies in several cities of UP, including the capital Lucknow, to celebrate Yogi's victory
&nbsp;

As BJP celebrated its thumping win in UP, bulldozer has become the mascot of party's victory.
BJP workers took out bulldozer rallies in several cities of UP, including the capital Lucknow.
Videos of BJP workers conducting processions on Bulldozers have gone viral.
Not just party workers and supporters of the saffron party, even Kanpur Mayor Pramila Pandey made a unique entry on top of a bulldozer to join the party's celebrations.
Just to recap, Yogi Adityanath government during the campaign had flaunted bulldozer as the symbol of crushing of mafias and gunda raaj in the state during the BJP rule.
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/elections/up-elections/up-election-2022-dy-cm-maurya-10-other-yogi-ministers-lose-despite-a-bjp-wave-in-state-1646971184678" target="_blank">UP Election 2022: Dy CM Maurya, 10 other Yogi ministers lose despite a BJP wave in state&nbsp;</a>
SP chief Akhilesh Yadav had called Yogi "bulldozer baba", a taunt that clearly turned into a victory mantra for the BJP.

Asserting that the BJP's emphatic win in four state polls underscore people's stamp of strong approval for its government's pro-poor and pro-active governance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that such a grand and decisive victory for the party is a guarantee for India's bright future.
Addressing BJP workers at the party headquarters, Modi also referred to the next Lok Sabha polls, scheduled for 2024, saying he hopes that political pundits will note that his party's win in the four states has also made clear the verdict for the next general election as they had linked its win in 2019 to its sweep of the Uttar Pradesh elections in 2017.
Hailing the BJP's "jeet ka chauka" (a boundary of wins) in distant states like Goa and Manipur besides Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, he said the results have signalled that the sun will set on the dynastic politics in the country one day. People have blessed us from all directions, Modi said.
He also hit out at opposition parties without directly naming them for trying to save the corrupt following action of institutions acting independently against them and expressed concern that critics have invoked caste, religion and region in their efforts to impede probe.
People should shun such voices, Modi said, asserting that his government is not only expected to work with integrity but also act against those who have been involved in corruption.
He said he is not against any individual or any particular family, but his concern is about democracy.
Central agencies' action against some opposition leaders, recently in Maharashtra, have drawn sharp criticism of the Modi government from their parties.
Modi also slammed rivals for augmenting fear among Indian students stranded in war-hit Ukraine and their families, and accused them of using regionalism to target "Operation Ganga", launched by his government to evacuate students, most of whom have been brought home.
The BJP's win in the four states where it was in power augurs well for the country in its 75th year of independence and shows people's faith in the party's policies and its vision for the country for the next 25 years leading to the nation's centenary year of freedom, the prime minister said.
Referring to Punjab, another state that went to polls and where the Aam Aadmi Party has notched up a massive victory leaving its rivals, including the BJP, far behind, Modi lauded his party's workers for their hard work under adverse circumstances. This portends well for Punjab and the country, he said.
"The (four) state results strongly vindicate BJP's pro-poor and pro-active governance. Earlier, people could not reach governments for basic amenities such as electricity, gas and water. Now we are delivering the poor their rights," the prime minister said, asserting that he will not rest until the poor get their due.
Lauding BJP workers for ensuring an early Holi by making the party victorious in four states, Modi said its voteshare has increased in Manipur, Uttar Pradesh and Goa even though it was in power in the states.
All exit polls were proven incorrect in Goa, and the people of Goa have given the BJP the chance to serve them for the third consecutive time, he said.
In Uttar Pradesh, people have reelected a chief minister for the first time after he had served a full term and also for the first time in 37 years, brought the same party to power again, he said.
Modi also hit out at those who believe that caste rules politics in Uttar Pradesh and asserted that the BJP's straight four wins since 2014, two Lok Sabha and assembly polls each, has highlighted that people have voted for development and good governance.
Those who refer to castes while analysing Uttar Pradesh politics insult the state and its people, he said, asserting that caste identity should be used to bring the country together and not to break it.
People's vote for stability in the polls shows that democracy flows through their veins, he said. "It is a day of zest and festivities and this enthusiasm is for India's democracy," Modi told jubilant party workers as he was joined by top party leaders at the dais.
He said Uttar Pradesh has given many prime ministers but for the first time it has re-elected a chief minister after he had served a full term. The prime minister said that governance delivery has been made better and transparent in the last few years, while delivering the poor their rights.
In Goa, he said, the BJP has emerged as the single largest party and even after being in power for 10 years, the number of BJP seats in the state has increased. "BJP has created a new history in Uttarakhand too," he said, while referring to the BJP achieving the maiden feat of retaining power in the hilly state.
He also praised young voters and women voters as well, saying they have played a crucial role in these elections. "They have blessed us - we've won splendidly in areas where women voters have dominated. Our Nari Shakti have been our partners in this victory," Modi said.

Assembly Election Results 2022: PM Narendra Modi's victory speech after BJP's win in 4 states

'Gyaani kahenge 2024 mei...': PM Modi's victory speech after BJP's win in 4 states | Elections 2022


vo: Following BJP's formidable performance by winning 4 of the 5 states which went to polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave a victory speech from the party's Delhi headquarters. From the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, to dynasty politics, and from investigations against Opposition leaders, to an "early Holi" - PM Modi spoke on a host of issues.
 BYTE NARENDRA MODI, PRIME MINISTER DELHI MARCH 10, 2022
============================================
CAPTIONS PM Modi's victory speech after poll win Modi hailed BJP's 'jeet ka chauka' (4 wins) PM spoke on people linking 2019, 2017 polls Now they'll say 2024 results final: PM Modi BJP workers fulfilled vow of early Holi: Modi
&nbsp;

<div>From the 2024 elections, to dynasty politics, and from investigations against Opposition leaders, to an "early Holi" - PM Modi spoke on a host of issues.</div>

Asserting that the BJP's emphatic win in four state polls underscore people's stamp of strong approval for its government's pro-poor and pro-active governance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that such a grand and decisive victory for the party is a guarantee for India's bright future.
Addressing BJP workers at the party headquarters, Modi also referred to the next Lok Sabha polls, scheduled for 2024, saying he hopes that political pundits will note that his party's win in the four states has also made clear the verdict for the next general election as they had linked its win in 2019 to its sweep of the Uttar Pradesh elections in 2017.
Hailing the BJP's "jeet ka chauka" (a boundary of wins) in distant states like Goa and Manipur besides Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, he said the results have signalled that the sun will set on the dynastic politics in the country one day. People have blessed us from all directions, Modi said.
He also hit out at opposition parties without directly naming them for trying to save the corrupt following action of institutions acting independently against them and expressed concern that critics have invoked caste, religion and region in their efforts to impede probe.
People should shun such voices, Modi said, asserting that his government is not only expected to work with integrity but also act against those who have been involved in corruption.
He said he is not against any individual or any particular family, but his concern is about democracy.
Central agencies' action against some opposition leaders, recently in Maharashtra, have drawn sharp criticism of the Modi government from their parties.
Modi also slammed rivals for augmenting fear among Indian students stranded in war-hit Ukraine and their families, and accused them of using regionalism to target "Operation Ganga", launched by his government to evacuate students, most of whom have been brought home.
The BJP's win in the four states where it was in power augurs well for the country in its 75th year of independence and shows people's faith in the party's policies and its vision for the country for the next 25 years leading to the nation's centenary year of freedom, the prime minister said.
Referring to Punjab, another state that went to polls and where the Aam Aadmi Party has notched up a massive victory leaving its rivals, including the BJP, far behind, Modi lauded his party's workers for their hard work under adverse circumstances. This portends well for Punjab and the country, he said.
"The (four) state results strongly vindicate BJP's pro-poor and pro-active governance. Earlier, people could not reach governments for basic amenities such as electricity, gas and water. Now we are delivering the poor their rights," the prime minister said, asserting that he will not rest until the poor get their due.
Lauding BJP workers for ensuring an early Holi by making the party victorious in four states, Modi said its voteshare has increased in Manipur, Uttar Pradesh and Goa even though it was in power in the states.
All exit polls were proven incorrect in Goa, and the people of Goa have given the BJP the chance to serve them for the third consecutive time, he said.
In Uttar Pradesh, people have reelected a chief minister for the first time after he had served a full term and also for the first time in 37 years, brought the same party to power again, he said.
Modi also hit out at those who believe that caste rules politics in Uttar Pradesh and asserted that the BJP's straight four wins since 2014, two Lok Sabha and assembly polls each, has highlighted that people have voted for development and good governance.
Those who refer to castes while analysing Uttar Pradesh politics insult the state and its people, he said, asserting that caste identity should be used to bring the country together and not to break it.
People's vote for stability in the polls shows that democracy flows through their veins, he said. "It is a day of zest and festivities and this enthusiasm is for India's democracy," Modi told jubilant party workers as he was joined by top party leaders at the dais.
He said Uttar Pradesh has given many prime ministers but for the first time it has re-elected a chief minister after he had served a full term. The prime minister said that governance delivery has been made better and transparent in the last few years, while delivering the poor their rights.
In Goa, he said, the BJP has emerged as the single largest party and even after being in power for 10 years, the number of BJP seats in the state has increased. "BJP has created a new history in Uttarakhand too," he said, while referring to the BJP achieving the maiden feat of retaining power in the hilly state.
He also praised young voters and women voters as well, saying they have played a crucial role in these elections.&nbsp;"They have blessed us - we've won splendidly in areas where women voters have dominated. Our Nari Shakti have been our partners in this victory," Modi said. (PTI)

Addressing party workers in Raebareli, Priyanka Gandhi on Tuesday invoked grandmother Indira's strategy to defend Rahul's shift from Amethi to Raebareli.

Priyanka Gandhi invokes grandma Indira to defend Rahul's move from Amethi to Raebareli

Addressing party workers in Raebareli, Priyanka Gandhi on Tuesday invoked grandmother Indira's strategy to defend Rahul's shift from Amethi to Raebareli.

Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru could never have imagined that a government would be installed in the country that would call them "deshdrohi (traitors)", Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said on Monday.
She also attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his language on the campaign trail.
Addressing party workers in the Rae Bareli constituency, the Congress general secretary said, "Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru undertook movements so that the people's rights could be strengthened. They could never have imagined that a government would come that would call them traitors and say (to people) 'if you give us 400 seats, we will change the Constitution'." "They could not even have imagined that the government itself would try to weaken our people," she said.
Priyanka Gandhi also referred to farmers' protests during the British Raj.
She said, "The farmers' protests during the time of Motilal Nehru and Jawaharlal Nehru -- the first time when Motilal Nehru and Jawaharlal Nehru were arrested, it was in Rae Bareli when they had come to participate." "Since then, during all the fights and elections in Rae Bareli, there was democracy and truth on one side while on the other side it was terror and a (kind of) politics that never considered the people 'sarvopari (above everything)'. In this fight, you always ensured victory for truth and the principles of democracy," Priyanka Gandhi said.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is contesting the elections from Rae Bareli, a constituency held by his mother Sonia Gandhi for the last two decades.
Priyanka Gandhi also claimed that Indira Gandhi was not angry when she lost the elections from Rae Bareli.
"She learnt from that defeat &hellip; She deliberated, took another path, and won the next elections," she said.
During her speech, the Congress leader also tried to strike a chord with the audience.
"This is the soil with which the blood of my family is mixed. This is the sacred land for which your ancestors sacrificed their lives. Today, we are fighting for the self-respect of the people and their rights. We will have to fight this battle with strength. This is the most pious soil of the country and we are fighting for everything that our ancestors fought for," she said.
Priyanka Gandhi also credited the Congress' Amethi candidate Kishori Lal Sharma for teaching her how to conduct elections.
"Kishori Lal Sharma ji, our candidate from Amethi, is present on the stage. I have learnt how to conduct elections from Kishori Lal Sharma ji," she said.
"This time, I told him 'I will make you contest the elections and you will win'. That is why I have come here, to make my elder brother (Rahul Gandhi) and Kishori Lal ji contest the elections." Rae Bareli and Amethi go to the polls on May 20.&nbsp;

UP elections

Congress said the Uddhav Thackeray faction should not have announced candidates from Mumbai South Central, Bhwandi and Sangli, as the allies were still negotiating over those seats.

Congress objects to Shiv Sena (UBT) naming candidates for seats under discussion

 Congress said the Uddhav Thackeray faction should not have announced candidates from Mumbai South Central, Bhwandi and Sangli, as the allies were still negotiating over those seats. 

Congress said the Uddhav Thackeray faction should not have announced candidates from Mumbai South Central, Bhwandi and Sangli, as the allies were still negotiating over those seats.

Cracks emerge in the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) in Maharashtra as Congress leaders in the state object to ally Shiv Sena (UBT) announcing candidates from seats still under discussion.
"Sena should not have announced candidates from Mumbai South Central, Bhwandi and Sangli. These were still under discussion," Congress leader Balasaheb Thorat said.
The Uddhav Thackeray faction of the Shiv Sena on Wednesday named Anil Desai from the Mumbai South Central constituency and Chandrahar Patil from Sangli. The two Lok Sabha constituencies were among 17 seats for which Sena (UBT) nominated contestants.
Congress leaders are said to be upset with the move. "How can candidates' names be announced in a one-sided manner," Thorat, who was leading seat-sharing negotiations in the state on behalf of Congress, asked.
Mumbai Congress President Varsha Gaikwad and senior leader Sanjay Nirupam too expressed their displeasure with their MVA ally.
Congress, too, has declared a few candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, but only on seats where there is no tussle with its alliance partners.
Another MVA ally, NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) is yet to officially declare its candidates.
Maharashtra, which has 48 Lok Sabha seats, the second highest after Uttar Pradesh (80), will vote in five phases starting from April 19.

Priyanka Gandhi is everywhere and seems like she’s also always up for a good fight against her opponents - be it the UP police or the BJP Goliath in the state! 

UP Election 2022: Can Priyanka Gandhi's new avatar revive Congress in UP?

Priyanka Gandhi is everywhere and seems like she’s also always up for a good fight against her opponents - be it the UP police or the BJP Goliath in the state. Clearly, we're talking about Priyanka 2.0 - she's street smart, she's not afraid to set foot into the maidan and fight adversaries head to head. 
 
The Congress’s UP campaign is hinging upon the idea of Naari Shakti. From a separate manifesto for women that guarantees them safety and opportunity - to declaring that 40% of all tickets will be reserved for women, one of the most major poll pushes from the Congress this time around is that women must be a part of the political fabric of a country in order for it to develop and grow. Some of the salient promises of the ‘womanifesto’ include: 
- Businesses with more than 50 per cent female workforce to get special incentives, including tax exemptions 
- Mandatory creche facility at all government offices 
- Students of class 12 to be given smartphone, while those pursuing graduation will be given a scooty 
- Free public transport for women 
- Three free gas cylinders in a year to every woman in the state  
- 25 per cent jobs to women in police force and female constables to be posted in all police stations 
 
While the other major players draw crowds of saffron supporters and those in laal topis - the congress’ supporter base this time around seems to be coming from young women participating in the Ladki Hoon Lad Sakti hoon marathons. A slogan that is being taken forward very heavily by the INC - and most definitely by Priyanka Gandhi, who looks amped up to take on any ladai that comes her way. 
 
Priyanka Gandhi is no stranger to the cameras. And by the looks of it not afraid of the formidable UP police either. Which isn’t surprising given that their attempts to foil her plans have not worked out to well in their favour. - They tried stopping her from going to Sonbhadra after 10 people were killed - it failed. Tried to stop her again after the horrific Hathras gangrape and murder - it failed. Custodial deaths in Agra, Lakhimpur Kheri violence, every single time they tried to stop her - it failed.  
 
While some are likening the Congress General Secretary to Indira Gandhi, the ground reality is slightly different. The Grand Old Party is not what it was four decades ago. Congress' sinking fortunes in UP have only gone from bad to worse in polls after polls. Even Priyanka's record is not something to boast about - despite her extensive campaign in Amethi and Raebareli - both slipped out of the Congress's hands in the 2017 elections. And then there was the humiliating loss of the family bastion of Amethi - that Rahul Gandhi lost to BJP's Smriti Irani in 2019. 
 
As per most recent data, women have outnumbered men in getting their names registered on the electoral rolls in UP. There are currently 6.98 crore female voters on UP’s voter list. So on paper it looks like a stellar idea to chart away from the usual politics of caste and religion in the state and venture into the territory of women voters - but the jury is still out on if this will translate into any change in the voters’ mood on the ground. 
 
With just 7 MLAs in the 403-seat Assembly - Congress's journey to victory is definitely going to be much tougher than the recent voyages that Ms.Gandhi has been taking. Will her heavy focus on issues of women and new knack for playing real politics take Congress the distance? Looks like we'll find out! 

Priyanka Gandhi is everywhere and seems like she&rsquo;s also&nbsp;always up&nbsp;for&nbsp;a good fight against her opponents - be it the UP police or the BJP Goliath in the state! But will her new avatar revive Congress in UP?&nbsp;

Priyanka Gandhi is everywhere and seems like she&rsquo;s also&nbsp;always up&nbsp;for&nbsp;a good fight against her opponents - be it the UP police or the BJP Goliath in the state. Clearly, we're talking about&nbsp;Priyanka&nbsp;2.0&nbsp;- she's street smart, she's not afraid to set foot into the maidan and fight adversaries&nbsp;head to head.&nbsp; &nbsp; The Congress&rsquo;s UP campaign is hinging upon the idea of Naari Shakti. From a separate manifesto&nbsp;for&nbsp;women that guarantees them safety and opportunity - to declaring that 40% of all tickets will be reserved&nbsp;for&nbsp;women, one of the most major&nbsp;poll&nbsp;pushes from the Congress this time around is that women must be a part of the political fabric of a country in order&nbsp;for&nbsp;it to develop and grow. Some of the salient promises of the &lsquo;womanifesto&rsquo; include:&nbsp; - Businesses with more than 50 per cent female workforce to get special incentives, including tax exemptions&nbsp; - Mandatory creche facility at all government offices&nbsp; - Students of class 12 to be given smartphone, while those pursuing graduation will be given a&nbsp;scooty&nbsp; - Free public transport&nbsp;for&nbsp;women&nbsp; - Three free gas cylinders in a year to every woman in the state&nbsp;&nbsp; - 25 per cent jobs to women in police&nbsp;force and female constables to be posted in all police stations&nbsp; &nbsp; While the other major players draw crowds of saffron supporters and those in laal topis - the congress&rsquo; supporter base this time around seems to be coming from young women participating in the&nbsp;Ladki&nbsp;Hoon Lad Sakti&nbsp;hoon&nbsp;marathons. A slogan that is being taken&nbsp;forward very heavily by the INC - and most definitely by&nbsp;Priyanka&nbsp;Gandhi, who looks amped up to take on any&nbsp;ladai&nbsp;that comes her way.&nbsp; &nbsp; Priyanka&nbsp;Gandhi is no stranger to the cameras. And by the looks of it not afraid of the&nbsp;formidable UP police either. Which isn&rsquo;t surprising given that their attempts to foil her plans have not worked out to well in their&nbsp;favour. - They tried stopping her from going to&nbsp;Sonbhadra&nbsp;after 10 people were killed - it failed. Tried to stop her again after the horrific&nbsp;Hathras&nbsp;gangrape and murder - it failed. Custodial deaths in Agra, Lakhimpur Kheri violence, every single time they tried to stop her - it failed.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; While some are likening the Congress General Secretary to Indira Gandhi, the ground reality is slightly different. The Grand Old Party is not what it was four decades ago. Congress' sinking&nbsp;fortunes in UP have only gone from bad to worse in polls after polls. Even&nbsp;Priyanka's record is not something to boast about - despite her extensive campaign in Amethi and Raebareli - both slipped out of the Congress's hands in the 2017 elections. And then there was the humiliating loss of the family bastion of Amethi - that Rahul Gandhi lost to BJP's Smriti Irani in 2019.&nbsp; &nbsp; As per most recent data, women have outnumbered men in getting their names registered on the electoral rolls in UP. There are currently 6.98 crore female voters on UP&rsquo;s voter list.&nbsp;So&nbsp;on paper it looks like a stellar idea to chart away from the usual politics of caste and religion in the state and venture into the territory of women voters - but the jury is still out on if this will translate into any change in the voters&rsquo; mood on the ground.&nbsp; &nbsp; With just 7 MLAs in the 403-seat Assembly - Congress's journey to victory is definitely&nbsp;going to be much tougher than the recent voyages that&nbsp;Ms.Gandhi&nbsp;has been taking. Will her heavy focus on issues of women and new knack&nbsp;for&nbsp;playing real politics take Congress the distance? Looks like we'll find out!&nbsp;

Poll Bugles in Uttar Pradesh are now being sounded of with the entire orchestra. Campaigns may be virtual but parties are still making everyone dance to their tunes! 

UP Election 2022: Songs, Remixes, Rap battles - the very musical fight for Uttar Pradesh

Poll Bugles in Uttar Pradesh are now being sounded of with the entire orchestra. Campaigns may be virtual but parties are still making everyone dance to their tunes - here’s a look at all the musical repartee that’s coming out of the land of Kabir! 

Starting off with an ode to Goddess Durga, Congress’ rock anthem on the power of women, is one  power packed jam! If Congress brought a song, SP just dropped an album - And what an album this one is: lilting music that soothes the soul, to some real folk tunes and even topical songs about the Laal topi - or Mulayam Singh. Star power, high emotion, viral content and lots of Bhagwa: there’s a very clear vibe for BJP’s musical strategy this time around! 

We’re talking about UP elections, so the news of political battles isn’t surprising but things just got taken to the next level with this Rap battle as local singer Neha singh Rathore took Ravi Kisan head on! Will these musical odes get their parties to a platinum? We’ll find out soon enough! 

UP Election 2022:&nbsp;As the elections inch closer, parties rely on music to sway voters!&nbsp;

Poll Bugles in Uttar Pradesh are now being sounded of with the entire orchestra. Campaigns may be virtual but parties are still making everyone dance to their tunes - here&rsquo;s a look at all the musical repartee that&rsquo;s coming out of the land of Kabir!&nbsp; Starting off with an ode to Goddess Durga, Congress&rsquo; rock anthem on the power of women, is one&nbsp; power packed jam!&nbsp;If Congress brought a song, SP just dropped an album -&nbsp;And what an album this one is: lilting music that soothes the soul, to some real folk tunes and even topical songs about the Laal topi - or Mulayam Singh.&nbsp;Star power, high emotion, viral content and lots of Bhagwa: there&rsquo;s a very clear vibe for BJP&rsquo;s musical strategy this time around!&nbsp;
We&rsquo;re talking about <a href="https://www.editorji.com/elections/up-elections">UP elections</a>, so the news of political battles isn&rsquo;t surprising but things just got taken to the next level with this Rap battle as local singer Neha singh Rathore took Ravi Kisan head on! Will these musical odes get their parties to a platinum? We&rsquo;ll find out soon enough!&nbsp;

Our films and TV shows have taken this image of the Baahubali neta and milked it for all it’s worth to light up our silver screens and talk about the ‘bad boy politician’. It can be surely argued that the muse for these characters played a pivotal role in Uttar Pradesh’s rich political history, and perhaps, continue to do so even today.
Let’s take a look at criminality in UP politics, and if Gunda raj is a real thing!
Taking a look at these elections: 
Of the candidates analysed from the first 5 phases:
790 have criminal cases against them. 607 have serious criminal cases. 50 have cases related to crimes against women and of the 292 constituencies, 154 are Red Alert constituencies - which means 3 or more candidates contesting have criminal charges against them.
In the major parties - the BJP has fielded 120 candidates with criminal cases against them, BSP 111, INC 118, and Samajwadi Party in clear lead with a whopping 159.
It would be an incomplete conversation if one were to talk about Gunda Raaj without mentioning that it's Samajwadi Party who's been infamous for allegedly allowing its leaders to get away with anything - literally. Even the latest recruits into the SP are from the Tiwari clan - where Patriarch Hari Shankar Tiwari is credited with founding the crime politics nexus in UP in the 80s. Some even go as far as to say that this heightened period of criminality in politics ushered in a change of regime in UP.
 
It would make sense that a government so against crime, wouldn’t want its poster boy to be a person accused of hate speech, rioting, arson, defiling places of worship and attempt to murder.
But....
Well....
Yogi government exonerates Yogi government
Shortly after coming to power in 2017, the Yogi government told the Allahabad High Court that the government has denied permission for the prosecution of the CM in a 2007 case of hate speech made during the Gorakhpur riots. The UP govt also ordered the withdrawal of a 1995 case related to defying prohibitory orders against CM Yogi and 14 others.
Nearly 400 people accused of arson, assault and vandalism during the 2013 Muzaffarnagar communal riots were off the hook as the Yogi government recommended withdrawal of prosecution in 75 cases lodged against them. 20,000 cases against several leaders were taken back - reasoning? - they were politically motivated and not serious.
Yogi Adityanath's 2009 Lok Sabha Affidavit showed 3 declared criminal cases, in 2014 this was 2, today in 2022 - there are none.
Let’s take a look at the sitting MLAs in the UP Vidhan Sabha today. Out of 396 sitting MLAs, 140 (35%) MLAs have declared criminal cases against them. 106 (27%) have declared serious criminal cases. For example BJP MLA from Agra South Yogendra Upadhyay has an attempt to murder charge against him. Mukhtar Ansari of the BSP who is currently in prison, has 5 charges of murder against him - these are just 2 of the 106 examples.
 
If the wheels of money and crime go hand in hand - one can reason why political parties field those with criminal antecedents on their ballots - but what's the reasoning for those ticking the ballots?
Criminal records do not deter votes.
On the contrary, the ‘Baahubali neta’ enjoys the 'saviour of the community' perception.
For the Indian voter, politics is a dirty game- an aggressive sport where arm-twisting is in the rulebook, bullying is acceptable, cunning gets bonus points and ends always justify the means.
Hence, criminality is just not that much of a deterrent

UP Election 2022: Chunaav Pe Charcha | EJ In-depth: The politics of muscle - crime in UP politics

Our films and TV shows have taken this image of the Baahubali neta and milked it for all it’s worth to light up our silver screens and talk about the ‘bad boy politician’. It can be surely argued that the muse for these characters played a pivotal role in Uttar Pradesh’s rich political history, and perhaps, continue to do so even today.


Let’s take a look at criminality in UP politics, and if Gunda raj is a real thing!


Taking a look at these elections: 


Of the candidates analysed from the first 5 phases:


790 have criminal cases against them. 607 have serious criminal cases. 50 have cases related to crimes against women and of the 292 constituencies, 154 are Red Alert constituencies - which means 3 or more candidates contesting have criminal charges against them.


In the major parties - the BJP has fielded 120 candidates with criminal cases against them, BSP 111, INC 118, and Samajwadi Party in clear lead with a whopping 159.


It would be an incomplete conversation if one were to talk about Gunda Raaj without mentioning that it's Samajwadi Party who's been infamous for allegedly allowing its leaders to get away with anything - literally. Even the latest recruits into the SP are from the Tiwari clan - where Patriarch Hari Shankar Tiwari is credited with founding the crime politics nexus in UP in the 80s. Some even go as far as to say that this heightened period of criminality in politics ushered in a change of regime in UP.



It would make sense that a government so against crime, wouldn’t want its poster boy to be a person accused of hate speech, rioting, arson, defiling places of worship and attempt to murder.


But....


Well....


Yogi government exonerates Yogi government


Shortly after coming to power in 2017, the Yogi government told the Allahabad High Court that the government has denied permission for the prosecution of the CM in a 2007 case of hate speech made during the Gorakhpur riots. The UP govt also ordered the withdrawal of a 1995 case related to defying prohibitory orders against CM Yogi and 14 others.


Nearly 400 people accused of arson, assault and vandalism during the 2013 Muzaffarnagar communal riots were off the hook as the Yogi government recommended withdrawal of prosecution in 75 cases lodged against them. 20,000 cases against several leaders were taken back - reasoning? - they were politically motivated and not serious.


Yogi Adityanath's 2009 Lok Sabha Affidavit showed 3 declared criminal cases, in 2014 this was 2, today in 2022 - there are none.


Let’s take a look at the sitting MLAs in the UP Vidhan Sabha today. Out of 396 sitting MLAs, 140 (35%) MLAs have declared criminal cases against them. 106 (27%) have declared serious criminal cases. For example BJP MLA from Agra South Yogendra Upadhyay has an attempt to murder charge against him. Mukhtar Ansari of the BSP who is currently in prison, has 5 charges of murder against him - these are just 2 of the 106 examples.



If the wheels of money and crime go hand in hand - one can reason why political parties field those with criminal antecedents on their ballots - but what's the reasoning for those ticking the ballots?


Criminal records do not deter votes.


On the contrary, the ‘Baahubali neta’ enjoys the 'saviour of the community' perception.


For the Indian voter, politics is a dirty game- an aggressive sport where arm-twisting is in the rulebook, bullying is acceptable, cunning gets bonus points and ends always justify the means.


Hence, criminality is just not that much of a deterrent

<div>Out of the 396 MLAs of the current UP&nbsp;Assembly, 140 have declared criminal cases. Criminal records have never been a hurdle for candidates in the UP run. But why is this so?&nbsp; </div>

Our films and TV shows have taken this image of the Baahubali neta and milked it for all it&rsquo;s worth to light up our silver screens and talk about the &lsquo;bad boy politician&rsquo;. It can be surely argued that the muse for these characters played a pivotal role in Uttar Pradesh&rsquo;s rich political history, and perhaps, continue to do so even today.
Let&rsquo;s take a look at criminality in UP politics, and if Gunda raj is a real thing!
Taking a look at these <a href="https://www.editorji.com/elections">elections</a>:&nbsp;
Of the candidates analysed from the first 5 phases:
790 have criminal cases against them. 607 have serious criminal cases. 50 have cases related to crimes against women and of the 292 constituencies, 154 are Red Alert constituencies - which means 3 or more candidates contesting have criminal charges against them.
In the major parties - the BJP has fielded 120 candidates with criminal cases against them, BSP 111, INC 118, and Samajwadi Party in clear lead with a whopping 159.
It would be an incomplete conversation if one were to talk about Gunda Raaj without mentioning that it's Samajwadi Party who's been infamous for allegedly allowing its leaders to get away with anything - literally. Even the latest recruits into the SP are from the Tiwari clan - where Patriarch Hari Shankar Tiwari is credited with founding the crime politics nexus in UP in the 80s. Some even go as far as to say that this heightened period of criminality in politics ushered in a change of regime in UP.
It would make sense that a government so against crime, wouldn&rsquo;t want its poster boy to be a person accused of hate speech, rioting, arson, defiling places of worship and attempt to murder.
But....
Well....
Yogi government exonerates Yogi government
Shortly after coming to power in 2017, the Yogi government told the Allahabad High Court that the government has denied permission for the prosecution of the CM in a 2007 case of hate speech made during the Gorakhpur riots. The UP govt also ordered the withdrawal of a 1995 case related to defying prohibitory orders against CM Yogi and 14 others.
Nearly 400 people accused of arson, assault and vandalism during the 2013 Muzaffarnagar communal riots were off the hook as the Yogi government recommended withdrawal of prosecution in 75 cases lodged against them. 20,000 cases against several leaders were taken back - reasoning? - they were politically motivated and not serious.
Yogi Adityanath's 2009 Lok Sabha Affidavit showed 3 declared criminal cases, in 2014 this was 2, today in 2022 - there are none.
Let&rsquo;s take a look at the sitting MLAs in the UP Vidhan Sabha today. Out of 396 sitting MLAs, 140 (35%) MLAs have declared criminal cases against them. 106 (27%) have declared serious criminal cases. For example BJP MLA from Agra South Yogendra Upadhyay has an attempt to murder charge against him. Mukhtar Ansari of the BSP who is currently in prison, has 5 charges of murder against him - these are just 2 of the 106 examples.
If the wheels of money and crime go hand in hand - one can reason why political parties field those with criminal antecedents on their ballots - but what's the reasoning for those ticking the ballots?
Criminal records do not deter votes.
On the contrary, the &lsquo;Baahubali neta&rsquo; enjoys the 'saviour of the community' perception.
For the Indian voter, politics is a dirty game- an aggressive sport where arm-twisting is in the rulebook, bullying is acceptable, cunning gets bonus points and ends always justify the means.
Hence, criminality is just not that much of a deterrent
Click here for more special coverage on <a href="https://www.editorji.com/elections" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Assembly Elections News &amp; Result</a>

Take a look at this analysis on the BJP’s push for cow protection 

UP Election 2022: Chunaav Pe Charcha | EJ In-depth: UP's focus on its cows 

Apart from catering to the sentiments attached to the holy animal, the Yogi government has worked incessantly towards the upkeep and welfare of cows in UP. So much so, that in the past 5 years, the state has allocated over 1,000 crores towards the infrastructural development and maintenance of the bovine animal. Take a look at this analysis on the BJP’s push for cow protection  

Apart&nbsp;from catering to the sentiments attached to the holy animal, the Yogi government has worked incessantly towards the upkeep and welfare of cows in UP. So much so, that in the past 5 years, the state has allocated over 1,000 crores towards the infrastructural development and maintenance of the bovine animal. Take a look at this analysis on the BJP&rsquo;s push for cow protection&nbsp;&nbsp;

Take a look at this analysis on the BJP&rsquo;s push for cow protection&nbsp;&nbsp;

In elections, every vote counts. Well, cows can't vote, but they certainly can win some. Or at least, Yogi government believes so.
It&rsquo;s not really news that the Uttar Pradesh government has a soft spot for the bovine community. And it certainly isn&rsquo;t a COW-incidence that enormous measures have been undertaken by the current UP government to ensure the welfare of this beloved species. Here&rsquo;s a look at all that has happened for cows and cattle in the last 5 years of the Yogi raj.
In 2018, the state allocated Rs 233 crore for the welfare of cow and dairy development and set aside a Rs 20 million fund for setting up cow shelters in 12 district jails across the state.&nbsp;In 2019, it further allocated Rs 600 crore towards cow welfare and imposed an additional cess on wine and beer in the state, additional revenue from which would go towards upliftment of cattle.&nbsp;In the 2021 supplementary budget ₹ 300 crore has been provided for maintenance of animals of the cow family.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
 According to official data, there are over 5,268 cow protection centers which have close to 6 lakh cattle. The fodder bank model, developed by the state government, is ensuring timely fodder through 3452 Fodder Banks which are feeding lakhs of stray cattle in UP. The state government also has a provision of giving financial assistance of Rs 900 per month to every farmer taking care of stray cattle.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
 In view of the Covid situation, a total of 700 help desks for the welfare of cows have been set up across the districts of Uttar Pradesh. In November 2021, the state government announced that it&rsquo;s starting an ambulance service for cows.&nbsp;
The Yogi Adityanath government has shut down 150 illegal slaughterhouses and identified 356 cattle traffickers as part of its efforts to protect cows and combat smuggling.&nbsp;
 And it&rsquo;s not just the elected government that&rsquo;s deeply concerned. The Allahabad High Court in 2021, while denying bail to a person accused of cow slaughter said that protection of cows is a fundamental right for Hindus and the cow should be the country&rsquo;s national animal. In 2020, up until August the UP Police had invoked the NSA against 139 people in the state, six people in connection with crimes against women, 37 for heinous crimes and 76 for cow slaughter
The opposition too has used cattle welfare as a major poll point in their campaign strategy - with both Priyanka Gandhi Vadra of the Congress and Akhilesh Yadav of SP claiming that UP has top position in the number of cows buried alive.&nbsp;
The focus towards cows makes one wonder what would happen if they showed up to the polling station on voting day - however for now, it&rsquo;s just us two legged animals!
Will Yogi's Rhythm Bovine be Moosic to UP voters? We will see!

While Omicron cases rise at an alarming rate throughout the country, the election canvassing in Uttar Pradesh has only and just begun to narrow down. All major players in the elections have called off rallies and the Election Commission is likely to issue guidelines for the campaigning period and the precautions needed henceforth. But after witnessing the devastation of the second wave we can’t help but ask - is it enough? Or is it too little too late?  

 UP Election 2022: Chunaav Pe Charcha | EJ In-depth: Covid Cloud over UP Polls 

While Omicron cases rise at an alarming rate throughout the country, the election canvassing in Uttar Pradesh has only and just begun to narrow down. All major players in the elections have called off rallies and the Election Commission is likely to issue guidelines for the campaigning period and the precautions needed henceforth. But after witnessing the devastation of the second wave we can’t help but ask - is it enough? Or is it too little too late?  

While Omicron cases rise at an alarming rate throughout the country, the election canvassing in Uttar Pradesh has only and just begun to narrow down.&nbsp;All major players&nbsp;in the elections&nbsp;have called off&nbsp;rallies and the Election Commission is likely to issue guidelines for the campaigning period and the precautions needed henceforth. But&nbsp;after witnessing the devastation of the second wave we can&rsquo;t help but ask -&nbsp;is it enough? Or is it too little too late?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Parties are cancelling their rallies in UP, but is this all too little too late?&nbsp;

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