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Congress President Sonia Gandhi reportedly told the CWC meeting held on Sunday to review Congress' crushing defeat in Assembly polls that shielding former Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh was her mistake.
When a senior leader questioned the timing of Amarinder Singh's removal as Chief Minister, late last year, saying it should have been done much earlier and was very badly handled, Sonia Gandhi intervened and said she was to be blamed as she shielded him for a long time, NDTV has reported quoting sources.
Amarinder Singh, on the other hand, on Monday held the Gandhis totally responsible for the rout of the Congress in the assembly polls. He claimed that the party was “comfortably placed” in Punjab before he was unseated as Chief Minister.
In a statement a day after the CWC took stock of the drubbing, Singh took digs at the “pompous” state Congress president Navjot Singh Sidhu and the “corrupt” Charanjit Singh Channi, who replaced him as Chief Minister.
The Congress scored just 18 seats out of 117 while the Aam Aadmi Party got 92 in a stunning sweep in Punjab.

Congress rout: Sonia says shielding Amarinder Singh was mistake, Captain blames Gandhis

Congress rout: Sonia says shielding Amarinder was mistake, Captain blames Gandhis

Sonia Gandhi concedes shielding Amarinder&nbsp;was a mistake
Sonia admits there was pushback&nbsp;against Amarinder&nbsp;Singh
Amarinder&nbsp;blames Gandhis for Congress rout in 5 states
Captain takes dig at "pompous" Sidhu, "corrupt" Channi
Cong won just 18 of 117 seats, AAP&nbsp;swept Punjab with 92

Sonia Gandhi reportedly told the CWC that shielding Amaraidner Singh despite a growing pushback against him within the party's state unit was a "mistake"

Congress President Sonia Gandhi reportedly told the CWC meeting held on Sunday to review Congress' crushing defeat in Assembly polls that shielding former Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh was her mistake.
When a senior leader questioned the timing of Amarinder Singh's removal as Chief Minister, late last year, saying it should have been done much earlier and was very badly handled, Sonia Gandhi intervened and said she was to be blamed as she shielded him for a long time, NDTV has reported quoting sources.
Amarinder Singh, on the other hand, on Monday held the Gandhis totally responsible for the rout of the Congress in the assembly polls. He claimed that the party was &ldquo;comfortably placed&rdquo; in Punjab before he was unseated as Chief Minister.
In a statement a day after the CWC took stock of the drubbing, Singh took digs at the &ldquo;pompous&rdquo; state Congress president Navjot Singh Sidhu and the &ldquo;corrupt&rdquo; Charanjit Singh Channi, who replaced him as Chief Minister.
The Congress scored just 18 seats out of 117 while the Aam Aadmi Party got 92 in a stunning sweep in Punjab.

Punjab Elections 2022: On the day of exit polls, Punjab CM faces for Aam Aadmi Party and Congress opined about the exit poll trends.

Punjab Elections 2022: AAP's CM candidate vs Congress CM face on Exit Polls

On the day of exit polls, Punjab CM faces for Aam&nbsp;Aadmi&nbsp;Party and Congress opined about the exit poll trends.

Punjab Elections 2022: On the day of exit polls, Punjab CM faces for Aam&nbsp;Aadmi&nbsp;Party and Congress opined about the exit poll trends.
While AAP's&nbsp;CM face Bhagwant&nbsp;Mann upon being asked about exit polls said, "What calculation? We are getting more than 80 seats. They (the rest of the parties that contested Punjab elections) can sit down and calculate among themselves: Bhagwant Mann, AAP's CM candidate for Punjab."
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/liveblog/elections/exit-polls-2022-live-updates-exit-polls-for-up-punjab-goa-uttarakhand-manipur-elections-65" target="_blank">Exit Polls 2022 Live Updates</a>
Punjab CM and Congress CM candidate while on his way to Home Minister Amit&nbsp;Shah's residence said, "The boxes (sealed EVMs) will say what is going to happen. Wait for the 10th of March: Punjab CM Charanjit Singh Channi when asked about early exit polls showing AAP forming govt in Punjab."
<a href="https://www.editorji.com/elections/punjab-elections/punjab-exit-polls-aap-victory-predicted-congress-akali-dal-battle-for-distant-2nd-place-exit-polls-1646662534355" target="_blank">Punjab Exit Polls: AAP victory predicted; Congress, Akali Dal battle for distant 2nd place| exit polls</a> 
The results for the elections held in a single phase last month will be declared on March 10.
Click here for more special coverage on <a href="https://www.editorji.com/elections" target="_blank">Assembly Elections News &amp; Result</a>

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Tuesday blocked applications, website and social media accounts of foreign-based 'Punjab Politics TV', which is linked to banned organisation Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), for allegedly attempting to use an online platform to disturb public order during assembly elections.
The SFJ has been declared unlawful under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.
“Relying on intelligence inputs that the channel was attempting to use online media to disturb public order during the ongoing State Assembly Elections, the Ministry used emergency powers under the IT Rules on February 18 to block the digital media resources of 'Punjab Politics TV',” it said.
The ministry noted that the content of the blocked apps, websites and social media accounts had had the potential to incite communal disharmony, separatism and were found to be detrimental to the sovereignty and integrity of India, security of the state, and public order.
“It was also observed that the launch of new apps and social media accounts was timed to gain traction during the ongoing elections.
“Government of India remains vigilant and committed to secure the overall information environment in India and thwart any actions having the potential to undermine India's sovereignty and integrity,” the ministry said.
Assembly polls were held in Punjab on February 20 and the results will be declared on March

Centre bans apps, website, social media accounts of Punjab Politics TV

The Modi&nbsp;government on Tuesday blocked applications, website and social media accounts of foreign-based 'Punjab Politics TV', which is linked to banned organisation Sikhs For Justice. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting took the decision for allegedly attempting to use an online platform to disturb public order during assembly elections in Punjab.
The ministry said relying on intelligence inputs, it used emergency powers under the IT Rules to block the digital media resources of 'Punjab Politics TV'.
The ministry noted that the content of the blocked apps, websites and social media accounts had had the potential to incite communal disharmony, separatism and were found to be detrimental to the sovereignty and integrity of India, security of the state, and public order.
Assembly polls were held in Punjab on February 20 and the results will be declared on March 10

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting took the decisionfor allegedly attempting to use an online platform to disturb public order during assembly elections in Punjab.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Tuesday blocked applications, website and social media accounts of foreign-based 'Punjab Politics TV', which is linked to banned organisation Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), for allegedly attempting to use an online platform to disturb public order during assembly elections.
The SFJ has been declared unlawful under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.
&ldquo;Relying on intelligence inputs that the channel was attempting to use online media to disturb public order during the ongoing State Assembly Elections, the Ministry used emergency powers under the IT Rules on February 18 to block the digital media resources of 'Punjab Politics TV',&rdquo; it said.
The ministry noted that the content of the blocked apps, websites and social media accounts had had the potential to incite communal disharmony, separatism and were found to be detrimental to the sovereignty and integrity of India, security of the state, and public order.
&ldquo;It was also observed that the launch of new apps and social media accounts was timed to gain traction during the ongoing elections.
ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/explained-tax-searches-at-indian-offices-of-chinese-telecom-giant-huawei-1645009619498">Explained: tax searches at Indian offices of Chinese telecom giant Huawei</a>
&ldquo;Government of India remains vigilant and committed to secure the overall information environment in India and thwart any actions having the potential to undermine India's sovereignty and integrity,&rdquo; the ministry said.
Assembly polls were held in Punjab on February 20 and the results will be declared on March 10

The BJP had been in power for more than seven years and was still blaming first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru for the problems of the people, former prime minister and Congress leader Manmohan Singh said on Thursday in a scathing attack against the Modi-led government.
Targeting the Central government on a host of issues, including the farmers’ agitation, foreign policy, price rise and unemployment, Singh said ahead of the Punjab elections on February 20 that the BJP’s nationalism was based on the British policy of “divide and rule”.
The Congress played the message delivered in Punjabi at a press conference here.
According to Singh, the government had proved to be a “complete failure” on the issue of foreign policy. The Chinese army, he alleged, was occupying “our pious land for the last one year but efforts are being made to bury this issue”.
“Our relations with neighbouring nations are also deteriorating,” Singh said.
He said the government does not have trust in the country's constitution and “institutions are continuously being weakened”.
"On the one hand, people are facing problems of price rise and unemployment, on the other, the present government, which has been in power for the last seven and a half years, rather than admitting their mistakes and making amends, is still blaming first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru for being responsible for people's problems," Singh said in his video statement.
The former prime minister also referred to the security lapse of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s convoy being stuck on a flyover in Ferozepur last month.
"A few days ago, in the name of the prime minister's security, an attempt was made to defame Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi and the people of the state," he said.       "During the farmers’ agitation too, an attempt was made to defame Punjab and Punjabiyat," he said.
     The world salutes the bravery, patriotism and sacrifice of Punjabis, but the NDA government did not talk about any of this, Singh said.
“As a true Indian hailing from Punjab, all these things deeply hurt me,” he added.
Singh said there are many challenges before the people of Punjab and it is very important to deal with them effectively.
It is very important to address the issues of Punjab's development, its farming and unemployment, he said.
“And this work can only be done by the Congress,” he said as he appealed to the people of Punjab to vote for the Congress.
The Congress leader said he had worked as prime minister for 10 years and had always preferred that his work should speak for itself.
"We never divided the country for political gains. We never tried to put curtains on the truth. Never allowed the country’s prestige to be lowered," he said.
At the international level, prestige of India and Indians was enhanced, he said, while adding that the country remembers the good work done during the Congress-led UPA rule.

Punjab Elections 2022| BJP in power since 7 years but still blaming Nehru, says Manmohan Singh

Targeting the Central government on a host of issues, including the farmers’ agitation, foreign policy, price rise and unemployment, the Congress leader said ahead of the Punjab elections on February 20 that the BJP’s nationalism was based on the British policy of “divide and rule”.

In a scathing attack against the Modi-led government, former prime minister Manmohan Singh said on Thursday that the&nbsp;BJP had been in power for more than seven years and was still blaming first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru for the problems of the people.
Targeting the Central government on a host of issues, including the farmers&rsquo; agitation, foreign policy, price rise and unemployment, the Congress leader said ahead of the Punjab elections on February 20 that the BJP&rsquo;s nationalism was based on the British policy of &ldquo;divide and rule&rdquo;.
The Congress played the message delivered in Punjabi at a press conference in Delhi.
(SOT IN PUNJABI ON RELATIONS WITH NEIGHBOURS)
He said the government does not have trust in the country's constitution and &ldquo;institutions are continuously being weakened&rdquo;.

Targeting the Central government on a host of issues, Manmohan Singh said ahead of the Punjab elections on February 20 that the BJP&rsquo;s nationalism was based on the British policy of &ldquo;divide and rule&rdquo;.

The BJP had been in power for more than seven years and was still blaming first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru for the problems of the people, former prime minister and Congress leader Manmohan Singh said on Thursday in a scathing attack against the Modi-led government.
Targeting the Central government on a host of issues, including the farmers&rsquo; agitation, foreign policy, price rise and unemployment, Singh said ahead of the Punjab elections on February 20 that the BJP&rsquo;s nationalism was based on the British policy of &ldquo;divide and rule&rdquo;.
The Congress played the message delivered in Punjabi at a press conference here.
According to Singh, the government had proved to be a &ldquo;complete failure&rdquo; on the issue of foreign policy. The Chinese army, he alleged, was occupying &ldquo;our pious land for the last one year but efforts are being made to bury this issue&rdquo;.
&ldquo;Our relations with neighbouring nations are also deteriorating,&rdquo; Singh said.
He said the government does not have trust in the country's constitution and &ldquo;institutions are continuously being weakened&rdquo;.
"On the one hand, people are facing problems of price rise and unemployment, on the other, the present government, which has been in power for the last seven and a half years, rather than admitting their mistakes and making amends, is still blaming first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru for being responsible for people's problems," Singh said in his video statement.
The former prime minister also referred to the security lapse of Prime Minister Narendra Modi&rsquo;s convoy being stuck on a flyover in Ferozepur last month.
"A few days ago, in the name of the prime minister's security, an attempt was made to defame Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi and the people of the state," he said.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"During the farmers&rsquo; agitation too, an attempt was made to defame Punjab and Punjabiyat," he said.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The world salutes the bravery, patriotism and sacrifice of Punjabis, but the NDA government did not talk about any of this, Singh said.
&ldquo;As a true Indian hailing from Punjab, all these things deeply hurt me,&rdquo; he added.
Singh said there are many challenges before the people of Punjab and it is very important to deal with them effectively.
It is very important to address the issues of Punjab's development, its farming and unemployment, he said.
&ldquo;And this work can only be done by the Congress,&rdquo; he said as he appealed to the people of Punjab to vote for the Congress.
The Congress leader said he had worked as prime minister for 10 years and had always preferred that his work should speak for itself.
"We never divided the country for political gains. We never tried to put curtains on the truth. Never allowed the country&rsquo;s prestige to be lowered," he said.
At the international level, prestige of India and Indians was enhanced, he said, while adding that the country remembers the good work done during the Congress-led UPA rule.
ALSO WATCH: <a href="https://www.editorji.com/elections/punjab-elections/punjab-elections-2022-priyanka-by-his-side-cm-channi-rants-against-up-ke-bhaiya-opposition-slams-1645023194178">Punjab Elections 2022: Priyanka by his side, CM Channi rants against 'UP ke bhaiya', opposition slams</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed his first rally in Punjab since the security lapse during his visit to the state last month.
Addressing a poll rally in Jalandhar, the PM took a swipe at the Punjab government over the security situation in the state.
I wanted to offer prayers at Tripurmalini Devi Shaktipeeth after this event but the administration &amp; police said they will not be able to make the arrangements. This is the situation of govt here. But I will surely offer prayers at Shaktipeeth soon, the PM said.
The Prime Minister also targeted the Gandhi family at the rally saying that the Punjab government is run by remote control.
Taking a swipe at the ruling party, the PM said that the Congress was fighting within itself and asserted that the NDA government will establish rule of law in the state by ending the "mafia raj".
On January 5, Prime Minister Modi's convoy was stuck on a flyover in Punjab for around 15-20 minutes while he was on his way to a rally. The route had been blocked by farm protestors. PM eventually had to turn back and return to Delhi.

Punjab Election 2022: PM Modi's first rally since 'security lapse', he targets Cong, Gandhis

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed his first rally in Punjab since the security lapse during his visit to the state last month.
Addressing a poll rally in Jalandhar, the PM took a swipe at the Punjab government over the security situation in the state.
PM byte: I wanted to offer prayers at Tripurmalini Devi Shaktipeeth after this event but the adminstration &amp; police said they will not be able to make the arrangements. This is the situation of govt here. But I will surely offer prayers at Shaktipeeth soon.
The Prime Minister also targeted the Gandhi family at the rally saying that the Punjab government is run by remote control.
Taking a swipe at the ruling party, the PM said that the Congress was fighting within itself and asserted that the NDA government will establish rule of law in the state by ending the "mafia raj".

Punjab Election 2022: Addressing a rally in Jalandhar, PM Modi said that state government is run by remote control from Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed his first rally in Punjab since the security lapse during his visit to the state last month.
Addressing a poll rally in Jalandhar, the PM took a swipe at the Punjab government over the security situation in the state.
I wanted to offer prayers at Tripurmalini Devi Shaktipeeth after this event but the administration &amp; police said they will not be able to make the arrangements. This is the situation of govt here. But I will surely offer prayers at Shaktipeeth soon, the PM said.
The Prime Minister also targeted the Gandhi family at the rally saying that the Punjab government is run by remote control.
Taking a swipe at the ruling party, the PM said that the Congress was fighting within itself and asserted that the NDA government will establish rule of law in the state by ending the "mafia raj".
On January 5, Prime Minister Modi's convoy was stuck on a flyover in Punjab for around 15-20 minutes while he was on his way to a rally. The route had been blocked by farm protestors. PM eventually had to turn back and return to Delhi.

Just days before the Punjab Assembly elections, Dera Sacha Sauda head and self-styled religious guru Gurmeet Ram Rahim has been released on furlough for three weeks.
Ram Rahim has been serving a life term in Haryana's Sunaria Jail since 2017 after being convicted for the murder of a journalist and rape of his two disciples.
Ram Rahim's furlough amid election campaign cannot be seen as detached from politics in the state given the influence Deras hold on the state voters.
Punjab parties have questioned Dera chief's release and have accused the BJP of using him to swing his followers' votes.
The religious Sikh body SGPC has also criticised the decision to grant the Dera chief a furlough, alleging that the move was politically motivated.
It's no secret in Punjab that Deras have in past dictated their followers voting choices.
The influential Deras in Punjab include:

Dera Sacha Sauda
Radha Swami Satsang
Dera Noormahal
Dera Nirankari
Dera Sachkhand Ballan
Dera Namdhari

Dera followers are mostly Dalits, who form 32% of the electorate, thus a big catchment area for all parties.
Deras have immense influence in over 50 of 117 Punjab seats.
Experts say Deras have vast followings in Punjab's Malwa region, which accounts for 69 of 117 state seats.
Deras have an influence in at least 27 of these seats.
These include Muktsar, Bathinda, Mansa, Ferozepur, Fazilka, Barnala, Sangrur, Moga, Patiala and Ludhiana.
In the other two regions - Majha and Doaba - Deras have influence in Hoshiarpur, Jalandhar, Phagwara, Tarn Taran and Amritsar.
If we break up the influence of individual Deras,
Dera Sacha Sauda has influence in 27 seats,
Radha Swami Satsang holds sway in 19 consistencies,Dera Sachkhand Ballan, and&nbsp;Dera Noormahal in eight seats each,&nbsp;Sant Nirankari Mission in four and Dera Namdhari Sect in two Assembly constituencies.
It is this influence that attracts politicians to Deras, come elections.
AAP's Arvind Kejriwal started Punjab campaign with a visit to Dera Sachkhand on Jan 1
A day earlier Akali Dal leader Harsimrat was seen at the same Dera
And before her, Punjab CM Charanjit Singh Channi had also visited Dera Sachkhand
Of all the Deras, Ram Rahim's Dera Sacha Sauda is the only one that has in the past openly called on its lakhs of followers to vote for a particular party.
In 2002, Dera Sacha Sauda endorsed Captain Amarinder and Congress won the polls.
In 2007, Ram Rahim again asked its followers to vote for Congress. But Akali-BJP combine won, which led to souring of the Akali-Dera relations.
Before 2012 polls: Amarinder Singh met Gurmeet Ram Rahim again, but Dera didn't support any party openly
2017: Dera refrained from open support to any party, but endorsed individual candidate.
And not just in Punjab, Dera Sacha Sauda also threw its weight behind the BJP in 2014 Assembly elections.

Punjab Election 2022: Ram Rahim out of jail amid polls - How Deras impact Punjab politics

Punjab Election 2022: Ram Rahim out of jail amid poll campaign - How Deras impact Punjab politics. Here's all you need to know

Punjab Election:&nbsp;Deras have immense influence in over 50 of 117 Punjab seats.

Just days before the Punjab Assembly elections, Dera Sacha Sauda head and self-styled religious guru Gurmeet Ram Rahim has been released on furlough for three weeks.
Ram Rahim has been serving a life term in Haryana's Sunaria Jail since 2017 after being convicted for the murder of a journalist and rape of his two disciples.
Ram Rahim's furlough amid election campaign cannot be seen as detached from politics in the state given the influence Deras hold on the state voters.
Punjab parties have questioned Dera chief's release and have accused the BJP of using him to swing his followers' votes.
The religious Sikh body SGPC has also criticised the decision to grant the Dera chief a furlough, alleging that the move was politically motivated.
It's no secret in Punjab that Deras have in past dictated their followers voting choices.
The influential Deras in Punjab include:
<ul>
<li>Dera Sacha Sauda</li>
<li>Radha Swami Satsang</li>
<li>Dera Noormahal</li>
<li>Dera Nirankari</li>
<li>Dera Sachkhand Ballan</li>
<li>Dera Namdhari</li>
</ul>
Dera followers are mostly Dalits, who form 32% of the electorate, thus a big catchment area for all parties.
Deras have immense influence in over 50 of 117 Punjab seats.
Experts say Deras have vast followings in Punjab's Malwa region, which accounts for 69 of 117 state seats.
Deras have an influence in at least 27 of these seats.
These include Muktsar, Bathinda, Mansa, Ferozepur, Fazilka, Barnala, Sangrur, Moga, Patiala and Ludhiana.
In the other two regions - Majha and Doaba - Deras have influence in Hoshiarpur, Jalandhar, Phagwara, Tarn Taran and Amritsar.
If we break up the influence of individual Deras,
Dera Sacha Sauda has influence in 27 seats,
Radha Swami Satsang holds sway in 19 consistencies, Dera Sachkhand Ballan, and&nbsp;Dera Noormahal in eight seats each,&nbsp;Sant Nirankari Mission in four and Dera Namdhari Sect in two Assembly constituencies.
It is this influence that attracts politicians to Deras, come elections.
AAP's Arvind Kejriwal started Punjab campaign with a visit to Dera Sachkhand on Jan 1
A day earlier Akali Dal leader Harsimrat was seen at the same Dera
And before her, Punjab CM Charanjit Singh Channi had also visited Dera Sachkhand
Of all the Deras, Ram Rahim's Dera Sacha Sauda is the only one that has in the past openly called on its lakhs of followers to vote for a particular party.
In 2002, Dera Sacha Sauda endorsed Captain Amarinder and Congress won the polls.
In 2007, Ram Rahim again asked its followers to vote for Congress. But Akali-BJP combine won, which led to souring of the Akali-Dera relations.
Before 2012 polls: Amarinder Singh met Gurmeet Ram Rahim again, but Dera didn't support any party openly
2017: Dera refrained from open support to any party, but endorsed individual candidate.
And not just in Punjab, Dera Sacha Sauda also threw its weight behind the BJP in 2014 Assembly elections.

Ahead of the announcement of the CM face for the Punjab Assembly polls by the Congress, party’s state unit chief Navjot Singh Sidhu said "people at the top" want a weak chief minister who can toe their line. 
He, however, did not make it clear whether he was referring to the Congress central leadership or anybody else. According to PTI, his media adviser clarified that Sidhu was referring to the central govt
Sidhu's remark came at a time when Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is likely to announce the name of his party's chief ministerial candidate for the Punjab polls on Sunday in Ludhiana.
For the last several weeks, both Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi and Sidhu have directly or indirectly made a case for themselves to be declared as the party's nominee for the top post.
 

Punjab elections 2022 | People at the top want a weak CM: Sidhu

Ahead of the announcement of the CM face for the Punjab Assembly polls by the Congress, party’s state unit chief Navjot Singh Sidhu said "people at the top" want a weak chief minister who can toe their line. 

Sidhu: people at the top want a weak CM in Punjab
Sidhu&nbsp;vying to be Congress' CM face along with Channi
Rahul&nbsp;Gandhi to announce Congress CM's&nbsp;candidate on Sunday
Elections for Punjab Assembly to be held on February 20
&nbsp;

Sidhu's remark came at a time when Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is likely to announce the name of his party's chief ministerial candidate for the Punjab polls on Sunday in Ludhiana.

Ahead of the announcement of the CM face for the Punjab Assembly polls by the Congress, party&rsquo;s state unit chief Navjot Singh Sidhu said "people at the top" want a weak chief minister who can toe their line.&nbsp;
He, however, did not make it clear whether he was referring to the Congress central leadership or anybody else. According to PTI, his media adviser clarified that Sidhu&nbsp;was referring to the central govt
Sidhu's remark came at a time when Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is likely to announce the name of his party's chief ministerial candidate for the Punjab polls on Sunday in Ludhiana.
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/elections/punjab-elections/punjab-election-2022-weeks-before-polls-central-agency-arrests-cm-channi-s-nephew-in-sand-mining-case-1643951640778">Punjab Election 2022: Weeks before polls, central agency arrests CM Channi's nephew in sand mining case</a>
For the last several weeks, both Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi and Sidhu have directly or indirectly made a case for themselves to be declared as the party's nominee for the top post.
&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Monday directed Punjab Police to not arrest SAD leader Bikram Singh Majithia till February 23 in a drugs case so he can undertake electioneering in the state.
A bench comprising Chief Justices N V Ramana and Justices A S Bopanna and Hima Kohli, however, directed Majithia to surrender before a trial court after the Punjab assembly polls scheduled on February 20.
It also directed the trial court to hear and expeditiously decide Majithia's regular bail plea after his surrender in the case.
The pre-arrest bail plea of Majithia, who was booked under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act on December 20 last year, was dismissed by the Punjab and Haryana High Court on January 24. An appeal has been filed in the apex court.

SC offers reprieve to SAD leader Bikram Singh Majithia wanted in drug case

SC orders reprieve to SAD leader Bikram Singh Majithia wanted in drug case

The Supreme Court on Monday directed Punjab Police to not arrest SAD leader Bikram Singh Majithia till February 23 in a drugs case so he can undertake electioneering in the state.
A bench comprising Chief Justices N V Ramana and Justices A S Bopanna and Hima Kohli, however, directed Majithia to surrender before a trial court after the Punjab assembly polls scheduled on February 20.
It also directed the trial court to hear and expeditiously decide Majithia's regular bail plea after his surrender in the case.
The pre-arrest bail plea of Majithia, who was booked under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act on December 20 last year, was dismissed by the Punjab and Haryana High Court on January 24.&nbsp;

A bench comprising Chief Justices N V Ramana and Justices A S Bopanna and Hima Kohli, however, directed Majithia to surrender before a trial court after the Punjab assembly polls scheduled on February 20.

The Supreme Court on Monday directed Punjab Police to not arrest SAD leader Bikram Singh Majithia till February 23 in a drugs case so he can undertake electioneering in the state.
A bench comprising Chief Justices N V Ramana and Justices A S Bopanna and Hima Kohli, however, directed Majithia to surrender before a trial court after the Punjab assembly polls scheduled on February 20.
It also directed the trial court to hear and expeditiously decide Majithia's regular bail plea after his surrender in the case.
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/elections/punjab-elections/punjab-elections-2022-punjab-cm-charanjit-singh-channi-to-contest-from-2-seats-1643551464421" target="_blank">Punjab Elections 2022: Punjab CM Charanjit Singh Channi to contest from 2 seats</a>
The pre-arrest bail plea of Majithia, who was booked under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act on December 20 last year, was dismissed by the Punjab and Haryana High Court on January 24. An appeal has been filed in the apex court.

 Delhi Chief Minister and AAP's national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said his party's chief ministerial candidate for the Punjab Assembly polls will be announced on Tuesday.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has received over 15 lakh responses under its campaign to elect its CM face for the Assembly polls, a party leader said.
Kejriwal had on January 13 asked the people of Punjab to suggest names of their preferred chief ministerial candidates and launched a mobile number for the purpose.
Kejriwal then said though he had wanted party’s state unit chief Bhagwant Mann's name to be declared as the chief ministerial candidate, the Sangrur MP insisted that people should make the decision.
Kejriwal had also ruled himself out of the race.
"The name of the party's chief ministerial candidate for Punjab Assembly elections will be announced tomorrow at 12 noon," Kejriwal told reporters on the sidelines of an event in Delhi.
Later in the day, AAP leader Raghav Chadha in Chandigarh said, "We have so far received more than 15 lakh responses through SMS, voice calls, WhatsApp messages. AAP's IT team is scrutinising each message and tomorrow Kejriwal will disclose the results." Chadha said it will be only AAP which will go to the state Assembly polls with the chief ministerial face.
He said none of the other political parties, including the ruling Congress, announced the name of their chief ministerial candidate.
Replying to a question, Chadha said the next list of candidates will be announced soon. So far, the party has announced 112 candidates.
Voting for Punjab's 117 Assembly seats is scheduled for February 20 and the counting will take place on March 10.
 

Assembly Election 2022 | AAP's CM face for Punjab polls to be announced on Tuesday: Arvind Kejriwal 

 Delhi Chief Minister and AAP's national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said his party's chief ministerial candidate for the Punjab Assembly polls will be announced on Tuesday.

AAP's CM face for Punjab polls to be announced on Tuesday: Kejriwal 

&nbsp;Delhi Chief Minister and AAP's national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said his party's chief ministerial candidate for the Punjab Assembly polls will be announced on Tuesday.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has received over 15 lakh responses under its campaign to elect its CM face for the Assembly polls, a party leader said.
Kejriwal had on January 13 asked the people of Punjab to suggest names of their preferred chief ministerial candidates and launched a mobile number for the purpose.
Kejriwal then said though he had wanted party&rsquo;s state unit chief Bhagwant Mann's name to be declared as the chief ministerial candidate, the Sangrur MP insisted that people should make the decision.
Kejriwal had also ruled himself out of the race.
Voting for Punjab's 117 Assembly seats is scheduled for February 20 and the counting will take place on March 10.

Kejriwal had on January 13 asked the people of Punjab to suggest names of their preferred chief ministerial candidates and launched a mobile number for the purpose.

Delhi Chief Minister and AAP's national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said his party's chief ministerial candidate for the Punjab Assembly polls will be announced on Tuesday.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has received over 15 lakh responses under its campaign to elect its CM face for the Assembly polls, a party leader said.
Kejriwal had on January 13 asked the people of Punjab to suggest names of their preferred chief ministerial candidates and launched a mobile number for the purpose.
Kejriwal then said though he had wanted party&rsquo;s state unit chief Bhagwant Mann's name to be declared as the chief ministerial candidate, the Sangrur MP insisted that people should make the decision.&nbsp;Kejriwal had also ruled himself out of the race.
"The name of the party's chief ministerial candidate for Punjab Assembly elections will be announced tomorrow at 12 noon," Kejriwal told reporters on the sidelines of an event in Delhi.
Later in the day, AAP leader Raghav Chadha in Chandigarh said, "We have so far received more than 15 lakh responses through SMS, voice calls, WhatsApp messages. AAP's IT team is scrutinising each message and tomorrow Kejriwal will disclose the results." Chadha said it will be only AAP which will go to the state Assembly polls with the chief ministerial face.
Also watch: <a href="https://www.editorji.com/elections/punjab-elections/assembly-polls-in-punjab-now-on-feb-20-n-view-of-guru-ravidas-jayanti-1642410643472">Assembly polls in Punjab now on Feb 20 in view of Guru Ravidas Jayanti</a>
He said none of the other political parties, including the ruling Congress, announced the name of their chief ministerial candidate.
Replying to a question, Chadha said the next list of candidates will be announced soon. So far, the party has announced 112 candidates.
Voting for Punjab's 117 Assembly seats is scheduled for February 20 and the counting will take place on March 10.

he Election Commission on Monday decided to hold the single-phase assembly polls in Punjab on February 20 instead of February 14 in view of Guru Ravidas Jayanti.
Several political parties had approached the EC to postpone the polls in the state in view of Ravidas Jayanti on February 16.
Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi, BJP and its allies, and the BSP had urged the poll panel to postpone the date of voting as lakhs of followers of Guru Ravidas travel to Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh to celebrate the day.
In a statement, the Commission said polls would now be held on February 20. It coincides with the third phase of polling in Uttar Pradesh.
The parties had said that several followers of Guru Ravidas would not be able to exercise their franchise on February 14 as they would be travelling.

Punjab Election 2022: Assembly polls in Punjab now on Feb 20 in view of Guru Ravidas Jayanti

Assembly polls in Punjab now on Feb 20 in view of Guru Ravidas Jayanti

The single-phase assembly elections in Punjab will now be held on February 20 instead of February 14.&nbsp;
The Election Commission decision's comes after several political parties approached it to postpone the polls in the state in view of Ravidas Jayanti on February 16.
Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi, BJP and its allies, and the BSP had urged the poll panel to postpone the date of voting as lakhs of followers of Guru Ravidas travel to Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh to celebrate the day and may not be able to cast their ballot.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi, BJP and its allies, and the BSP had urged the poll panel to postpone the date of voting as lakhs of followers of Guru Ravidas travel to Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh to celebrate the day.

The Election Commission on Monday decided to hold the single-phase assembly polls in Punjab on February 20 instead of February 14 in view of Guru Ravidas Jayanti.
Several political parties had approached the EC to postpone the polls in the state in view of Ravidas Jayanti on February 16.
Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi, BJP and its allies, and the BSP had urged the poll panel to postpone the date of voting as lakhs of followers of Guru Ravidas travel to Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh to celebrate the day.
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/elections/punjab-elections/punjab-elections-2022-cm-channi-s-brother-goes-independent-after-congress-denies-ticket-1642345660524">Punjab Elections 2022 | CM Channi's brother goes independent after Congress denies ticket</a>
In a statement, the Commission said polls would now be held on February 20. It coincides with the third phase of polling in Uttar Pradesh.
The parties had said that several followers of Guru Ravidas would not be able to exercise their franchise on February 14 as they would be travelling.

The Bharatiya Janata Party has joined the Congress to ask the Election Commission to postpone the elections in Punjab on account of Guru Ravidas Jayanti on February 16.In a letter to the Chief Election Commissione, Punjab BJP general secretary Subhash Sharma said the state has substantial followers of Guru Ravidas, including the Scheduled Caste community which is about 32 per cent of the population of Punjab.
As of now, the Punjab Assembly election is slated to be held in a single phase on February 14 and the results will be out on March 10. 
The demand for postponement was first made by Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi. The Punjab Lok Congress, headed by Captain Amarinder Singh, too has supported the demand to postpone the election by a week.
Channi said the issue was brought to his notice by representatives of the Scheduled Caste community. He said around 20 lakh SC devotees are likely to visit Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh between February 10 to February 16, 2022.
 

Quixplained: why are political parties in Punjab seeking poll postponement 

Political parties in Punjab seeking poll postponement: here's why

Political parties in Punjab seeking poll postponement 

The demand for postponement was first made by Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi.&nbsp;The Punjab Lok Congress, headed by Captain Amarinder Singh, too has supported the demand to postpone the election by a week.

The Bharatiya Janata Party has joined the Congress to ask the Election Commission to postpone the elections in Punjab on account of Guru Ravidas Jayanti on February 16. In a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner, Punjab BJP general secretary Subhash Sharma said the state has substantial followers of Guru Ravidas, including the Scheduled Caste community which is about 32 per cent of the population of Punjab.
Also watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/elections/punjab-elections/punjab-elections-2022-cm-channi-s-brother-goes-independent-after-congress-denies-ticket-1642345660524" target="_blank">Punjab Elections 2022 | CM Channi's brother goes independent after Congress denies ticket</a>
As of now, the Punjab Assembly election is slated to be held in a single phase on February 14 and the results will be out on March 10.&nbsp;
The demand for the postponement was first made by Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi.&nbsp;The Punjab Lok Congress, headed by Captain Amarinder Singh, too has supported the demand to postpone the election by a week.
Channi said the issue was brought to his notice by representatives of the Scheduled Caste community. He said around 20 lakh SC devotees are likely to visit Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh between February 10 to February 16, 2022.
&nbsp;

The Congress on Saturday released its first list of 86 candidates for the February 14 assembly elections in Punjab, fielding Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi from Chamkaur Sahib and PCC chief Navjot Singh Sidhu from Amritsar East.
The party has also fielded Punjab deputy chief ministers -- Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa from Dera Baba Nanak and Om Prakash Soni from Amritsar Central, the seats they already represent.
Controversial Punjabi singer Sidhu Mussewala, who joined the Congress sometime ago will contest from Mansa and actor Sonu Sood's sister Malvika Sood from Moga.
Party's Rajya Sabha MP Pratap Singh Bajwa will contest from Qadian assembly seat in Gurdaspur, which is represented by Bajwa's brother Fatehjang Singh Bajwa.
The list was released after the party's central election committee chaired by party chief Sonia Gandhi cleared the names in its meeting held on Thursday.
The party has also adopted 'one family, one ticket' formula while distributing the party tickets.
Former PCC president and campaign committee chief Sunil Jakhar will not contest the assembly polls and his nephew Sandeep Jakhar will contest the Abohar assembly seat instead.
The first list has as many as nine women candidates, representing around 10 per cent so far.

Punjab Elections 2022 | CM Channi to contest from Chamkaur Sahib, Sidhu from Amritsar East

The Congress on Saturday released its first list of 86 candidates for the February 14 assembly elections in Punjab, fielding Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi from Chamkaur Sahib and PCC chief Navjot Singh Sidhu from Amritsar East.

The Congress on Saturday released its first list of 86 candidates for the February 14 assembly elections in Punjab, fielding Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi from Chamkaur Sahib and PCC chief Navjot Singh Sidhu from Amritsar East.
The party has also fielded Punjab deputy chief ministers -- Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa from Dera Baba Nanak and Om Prakash Soni from Amritsar Central, the seats they already represent.
Controversial Punjabi singer Sidhu Mussewala, who joined the Congress sometime ago will contest from Mansa and actor Sonu Sood's sister Malvika Sood from Moga.
The party has also adopted 'one family, one ticket' formula while distributing the party tickets.
Former PCC president and campaign committee chief Sunil Jakhar will not contest the assembly polls and his nephew Sandeep Jakhar will contest the Abohar assembly seat instead.
The first list has as many as nine women candidates, representing around 10 per cent so far.
The list was released after the party's central election committee chaired by party chief Sonia Gandhi cleared the names in its meeting held on Thursday.
&nbsp;

The first list has as many as nine women candidates, representing around 10 per cent so far.

The Congress on Saturday released its first list of 86 candidates for the February 14 assembly elections in Punjab, fielding Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi from Chamkaur Sahib and state chief Navjot Singh Sidhu from Amritsar East.
The party has also fielded Punjab deputy chief ministers -- Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa from Dera Baba Nanak and Om Prakash Soni from Amritsar Central, the seats they already represent.
Controversial Punjabi singer Sidhu Mussewala, who joined the Congress sometime ago will contest from Mansa and actor Sonu Sood's sister Malvika from Moga.
Party's Rajya Sabha MP Pratap Singh Bajwa will contest from Qadian assembly seat in Gurdaspur, which is represented by Bajwa's brother Fatehjang Singh Bajwa.
The list was released after the party's central election committee chaired by Sonia Gandhi cleared the names in its meeting held on Thursday.
The party has also adopted 'one family, one ticket' formula while distributing the tickets.
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/elections/up-elections/up-elections-2022-yogi-to-contest-from-gorakhpur-44-obc-candidates-in-bjp-first-list-1642246062322">UP Elections 2022| Yogi to contest from Gorakhpur, 44 OBC candidates in BJP first list</a>
Former PCC president and campaign committee chief Sunil Jakhar will not contest the assembly polls and his nephew Sandeep will contest the Abohar assembly seat instead.
The first list has as many as nine women candidates, representing around 10 per cent so far.

Elections 2022 | Election Commission announces dates for Goa, Manipur and Uttarakhand polls

Elections 2022 | EC bans political rallies and roadshows till January 15

The Election Commission has announced restrictions on campaigning for the assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Goa, Uttarakhand and Manipur keeping in mind the surge in coronavirus cases in the country.
((GFX IN))
The poll panel has banned all physical rallies, roadshows and marches till January 15. It will take call on their resumption according the to Covid-19 situation on that date.
No rallies, roadshows or any kind of public election campaigning can be done between 8pm and 8am even after January 15.
The Election Commission also restricted people who can go for door-to-door campaigning to 5.
All political parties have been asked to campaign digitally and virtually as much as possible.
The Commission has also banned victory celebrations and only two persons will be allowed to accompany the candidate to collect the winning certificate.&nbsp;
((GFX OUT))
Political parties have been asked to provide masks, hand sanitisers to people attending rallies, if they are allowed. The poll panel also said that it will not hesitate to bar parties from further rallies if COVID protocol is not followed

EC: A total of 690 Assembly Constituencies to go to polls across five states

The Election Commission has announced restrictions on campaigning for the assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Goa, Uttarakhand and Manipur keeping in mind the surge in coronavirus cases in the country.
The poll panel has banned all physical rallies, roadshows and marches till January 15. It will take call on their resumption according the to Covid-19 situation on that date.
No rallies, roadshows or any kind of public election campaigning can be done between 8pm and 8am even after January 15.
The Election Commission also restricted people who can go for door-to-door campaigning to 5.
All political parties have been asked to campaign digitally and virtually as much as possible.
The Commission has also banned victory celebrations and only two persons will be allowed to accompany the candidate to collect the winning certificate.&nbsp;
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/elections/up-elections/ec-announces-7-phase-polls-for-uttar-pradesh-1641638618842">Elections in five states from Feb 10-March 7; results on March 10</a>
Political parties have been asked to provide masks, hand sanitisers to people attending rallies, if they are allowed. The poll panel also said that it will not hesitate to bar parties from further rallies if COVID protocol is not followed

As Punjab gears for Assembly elections, the Election Commission of India has withdrawn the appointment of actor Sonu Sood as its state icon. Sonu Sood who was appointed the state icon in November last year. 
Chief Electoral Officer of Punjab, S Karuna Raju, said that Sonu Sood’s appointment was withdrawn on January 4 this year. In recent months, Sood had visited Punjab several times and met political personalities, including Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi and president of Shiromani Akali Dal Sukhbir Singh Badal.
Sood had also held a press conference announcing that his sister would be contesting the Punjab assembly election from Moga. However, he had not disclosed which party she would join.
The actor has however consistently denied that he would contest the polls likely to be held in March this year. 

Punjab Elections 2022| Election Commission withdraws Sonu Sood's appointment as state icon

As Punjab gears for Assembly elections, the Election Commission of India has withdrawn the appointment of actor Sonu Sood as its state icon. Sonu Sood&nbsp;was appointed the state icon in November last year.&nbsp;
Chief Electoral Officer of Punjab, S Karuna Raju, said that Sonu Sood&rsquo;s appointment was withdrawn on January 4 this year.&nbsp;
In recent months, Sood had visited Punjab several times and met political personalities, including Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi and president of Shiromani Akali Dal Sukhbir Singh Badal.
Sood&nbsp;had also held a press conference announcing that his sister would be contesting the Punjab assembly election from Moga. However, he had not disclosed which party she would join.
The actor has however consistently denied that he would contest the polls likely to be held in March this year.&nbsp;

In recent months, Sood had visited Punjab several times and met political personalities, including Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi and president of Shiromani Akali Dal Sukhbir Singh Badal.

As Punjab gears for Assembly elections, the Election Commission of India has withdrawn the appointment of actor Sonu Sood as its state icon. Sonu Sood who was appointed the state icon in November last year.&nbsp;
Chief Electoral Officer of Punjab, S Karuna Raju, said that Sonu Sood&rsquo;s appointment was withdrawn on January 4 this year.&nbsp; In recent months, Sood had visited Punjab several times and met political personalities, including Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi and president of Shiromani Akali Dal Sukhbir Singh Badal.
Also watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/politics/watch-bjp-protesters-gherao-punjab-dy-cm-force-him-to-chant-modi-zindabaad-1641527793259" target="_blank">Watch: BJP protesters gherao Punjab Dy CM, force him to chant 'Modi Zindabaad'</a>
Sood&nbsp;had also held a press conference announcing that his sister would be contesting the Punjab assembly election from Moga. However, he had not disclosed which party she would join.
The actor has however consistently denied that he would contest the polls likely to be held in March this year.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's rally in Punjab's Ferozepur, which was supposed to be held on Wednesday, has been postponed after his convoy was stuck on a flyover in Bathinda for 15-20 minutes due to blockade by some protesters. 
The Union Home Ministry described the incident as a "major lapse" in his security.
This would have been Prime Minister Modi's first rally in Punjab after the three controversial farm laws were withdrawn. 
The prime minister was also scheduled to lay the foundation stones of development projects worth over Rs 42,750 crore, including the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra expressway and a PGIMER satellite centre.
The projects also included four-laning of the Amritsar-Una section, Mukerian-Talwara broad gauge railway line and two new medical colleges at Kapurthala and Hoshiarpur.

Punjab Election 2022 | PM's first rally in Punjab after scrapping of farm laws postponed

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's rally in Punjab's Ferozepur, which was supposed to be held on Wednesday, has been postponed after his convoy was stuck on a flyover in Bathinda for 15-20 minutes due to blockade by some protesters. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's rally in Punjab's Ferozepur, which was supposed to be held on Wednesday, has been postponed after his convoy was stuck on a flyover in Bathinda for 15-20 minutes due to blockade by some protesters.&nbsp;
The Union Home Ministry described the incident as a 'major lapse' in his security.
This would have been Prime Minister Modi's&nbsp;first rally in Punjab after the three controversial farm laws were withdrawn.&nbsp;
The prime minister was also scheduled to lay the foundation stones of development projects worth over Rs 42,750 crore, including the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra expressway and a PGIMER satellite centre.
The projects also included four-laning of the Amritsar-Una section, Mukerian-Talwara broad gauge railway line and two new medical colleges at Kapurthala and Hoshiarpur.

PM's convoy was stuck on a flyover in Bathinda for 15-20 minutes due to blockade by some protesters.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's rally in Punjab's Ferozepur, which was supposed to be held on Wednesday, has been postponed after his convoy was stuck on a flyover in Bathinda for 15-20 minutes due to blockade by some protesters.&nbsp;
The Union Home Ministry described the incident as a 'major lapse' in his security.
This would have been Prime Minister Modi's&nbsp;first rally in Punjab after the three controversial farm laws were withdrawn.&nbsp;
The prime minister was also scheduled to lay the foundation stones of development projects worth over Rs 42,750 crore, including the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra expressway and a PGIMER satellite centre.
The projects also included four-laning of the Amritsar-Una section, Mukerian-Talwara broad gauge railway line and two new medical colleges at Kapurthala and Hoshiarpur.
ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/pm-stuck-on-bathinda-flyover-home-ministry-blames-punjab-govt-for-security-lapse-1641379600673">PM stuck on Bathinda flyover, Home Ministry blames Punjab govt for 'security lapse'</a>

Twenty-two farm organisations in Punjab that were part of the protest against three central farm laws formed a political front on Saturday and announced they would contest the upcoming state assembly polls to bring about a "political change".
These 22 farm bodies were among 32 farmer organisations in Punjab which participated in the over-a-year-long protest against the three central farm laws.
However, the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), which had led the farmers' stir against the laws, clarified that it is not contesting the assembly elections.
Balbir Singh Rajewal of the Bhartiya Kisan Union (Rajewal) will be the leader of the Samyukt Samaj Morcha. 
Asked if the 'morcha' will enter into an alliance with the Aam Aadmi Party, which is the main opposition party in Punjab, Rajewal said no decision has yet been taken.

22 farm bodies in Punjab announce political front, to contest state polls

Twenty-two farm organisations in Punjab that were part of the protest against three central farm laws formed a political front on Saturday and announced they would contest the upcoming state assembly polls

22 farmer unions in Punjab form a political front Samyukt Samaj Morcha&nbsp;will contest Punjab elections 22 farmer unions were part of the anti-farm laws agitation
Samyukta Kisan Morcha&nbsp;distances itself from the new political front
&nbsp;

However, the Samyukta Kisan Morcha&nbsp;(SKM), which had led the farmers' stir against the laws, clarified that it is not contesting the assembly elections.

Twenty-two farm organisations in Punjab that were part of the protest against three central farm laws formed a political front on Saturday and announced they would contest the upcoming state assembly polls to bring about a "political change".
These 22 farm bodies were among 32 farmer organisations in Punjab which participated in the over-a-year-long protest against the three central farm laws.
 ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/pm-modi-must-remove-chief-mastermind-ajay-mishra-skm-on-sit-findings-in-lakhimpur-killings-1639500611258"> PM Modi must remove 'chief mastermind' Ajay Mishra: SKM on SIT findings in Lakhimpur killings</a> However, the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), which had led the farmers' stir against the laws, clarified that it is not contesting the assembly elections.
Balbir Singh Rajewal of the Bhartiya Kisan Union (Rajewal) will be the leader of the Samyukt Samaj Morcha.&nbsp;
Asked if the 'morcha'&nbsp;will enter into an alliance with the Aam Aadmi Party, which is the main opposition party in Punjab, Rajewal said no decision has yet been taken.

The Ministry of Home Affairs issued a lookout notice against former Punjab minister and senior SAD leader Bikram Singh Majithia, who was booked under the NDPS Act...

Punjab Elections 2022| Booked under NDPS Act, Centre issues lookout for SAD leader Bikram Singh Majithia

CAPTIONS:&nbsp;
MHA&nbsp;issues lookout notice aganist&nbsp;Bikram Singh Majithia
Former Punjab&nbsp;minister&nbsp;Majithia&nbsp;booked under the NDPS Act
In 2018, anti-drug special task force filed&nbsp;a report&nbsp;in High Court
SAD has called allegations against&nbsp;Majithia&nbsp;'political vendetta'

46-year-old Majithia, is the brother-in-law of Shiromani Akali Dal&nbsp;chief Sukhbir Singh Badal and brother of former Union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal.

The Ministry of Home Affairs issued a lookout notice against former Punjab minister and senior SAD leader Bikram Singh Majithia, who was booked under the NDPS Act.
A case under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances or NDPS&nbsp;Act was registered against him on the basis of a 2018 status report of a probe into the drug racket in the state.
<a href="https://www.editorji.com/elections/punjab-elections/watch-kejriwal-and-channi-war-of-words-as-punjab-campaign-heats-up-1637661561264" target="_blank">Also read: Watch: Kejriwal and Channi war of words as Punjab campaign heats up</a>
The report was filed by anti-drug special task force chief Harpreet Singh Sidhu in the Punjab and Haryana High Court in 2018. While the SAD has called allegations against&nbsp;Majithia&nbsp;&ldquo;political vendetta&rdquo;, he had denied all charges against him. 46-year-old Majithia, is the brother-in-law of Shiromani Akali Dal&nbsp;chief Sukhbir Singh Badal and brother of former Union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal.

In poll-bound Punjab, election campaigns across the state have taken the centre stage. Promises and clap-backs have been used by leaders at the forefront of the campaigns. As the state gears up for Assembly Elections due to be held in 2022, the sacrilege saga has come to the fore once more. 
On Saturday, a man was beaten to death for an act of 'desecration' in Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar. This was the second incident of attempted sacrilege in four days at the Golden Temple. On Wednesday, an individual threw the gutka (a book containing verses from the Gurbani) into the sarovar (holy tank). 
Political leaders across the board have condemned the issue, with some even calling this incident a conspiracy, and an attempt to disrupt the atmosphere of Punjab. 
In a set of tweets, Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi condemned the 'the most unfortunate and heinous act to attempt sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib in the sanctum sanctorum of Sri Harimandir Sahib' and also 'assured government’s full support and cooperation to get into the bottom of the case'. 
Five-time chief minister Parkash Singh Badal described 'the heinous attempt to commit sacrilege at Sachkhand Shri Harmandar Sahib as deeply shocking and exceedingly painful'. He said that 'the whole conspiracy needs to be probed, exposed and those behind it be given exemplary punishment'.
Attacking the state government, SAD President and Badal's son Sukhbir Singh Badal stated that after the incident of a gutka being thrown in the sarovar just a few days ago, the state agencies could not have been unaware of a deep-rooted conspiracy that led to today’s shocking sequence of events.
Deputy Chief Minister Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa said, 'Had the sacrilege accused not been killed, information about the conspiracy behind the act of sacrilege could have been extracted from him and the truth come out.” The minister, however, added that on sacrilege issue, members of Sikh community act on “emotions”. 
The opposition, including BJP accused the Congress government of failing to 'take action' against past incidences of sacrilege. 
Two months ago, in October, a man was lynched to death at the farmers' protest site at the Delhi borders over an alleged sacrilege attempt. 
Sacrilege issues have always had a sensitive spot in Punjab. Several incidents of desecration of the Guru Granth Sahib were reported across Punjab in 2015. Protests took place in various districts, highways were blocked by protestors. In one such instance, two protesting Sikhs were allegedly shot to death by police officers attempting to disperse protesting crowds. 
In November 2015, an amendment to Section 295A of the Indian Penal Code was approved by the Punjab Cabinet. According to the new 295A, a maximum sentence of life in prison would be awarded for sacrilege of Guru Granth Sahib. The bill was passed in March 2016. 
The then government was accused of not handling the sacrilege issues appropriately which led to the loss of BJP-SAD alliance in 2017 Assembly elections. 
Punjab will hold Assembly elections in early 2022 amidst heavy tension of the very delicate issue of sacrilege in the state. 

How issue of 'sacrilege' has impacted electoral politics in Punjab in recent year

The Golden Temple death over an alleged sacrilege attempt on Saturday brings to fore the intertwined relationship of politics and sacrilege in Punjab 

How issue of 'sacrilege' has impacted electoral politics in Punjab in recent years

As Punjab gears up for the assembly elections due to be held in 2022, the issue of religious sacrilege has come to the forefront again.
On December 18, a man was beaten to death for an act of 'desecration' in Harmandir&nbsp;Sahib in Amritsar. This was the second incident of attempted sacrilege in four days at the Golden Temple. On December 15, an individual threw a book containing verses from the Gurbani into the holy tank. &nbsp;
Political leaders across the board condemned the issue, with some even calling this incident a conspiracy, and an attempt to disrupt the atmosphere of Punjab.&nbsp;
((TWEETS/STATEMENTS of Channi, Sukhbir Singh Badal, Randhawa, BJP, Kejriwal))
The issue of sacrilege has been so important in Punjab politics that the BJP-SAD govt in 2015 had to bring in a law against it and according to political analysts it is also one of factors behind the alliance&rsquo;s loss in 2017 polls.
Several incidents of desecration of the Guru Granth&nbsp;Sahib were reported across Punjab in 2015. Protests took place in various districts and highways were blocked by protestors. In one such instance, two protesting Sikhs were allegedly shot to death by police officers attempting to disperse the crowds.&nbsp;
In November 2015, the Parkash Singh Badal-led govt introduced a law that would lead to life imprisonment for the&nbsp;desecration of Guru Granth Sahib. The bill was passed in March 2016 but the Union Home Ministry rejected the change in law on the grounds that it would violate India&rsquo;s secular principles.
The Amarinder Singh-led Congress govt in 2018 re-introduced the law but included Srimad Bhagwad Gita, Holy Quran and Holy Bible along with the Guru Granth Sahib to cover other religions.
During Captain Amarinder Singh&rsquo;s tenure he too faced immense pressure to ensure completion of the investigations in the 2015 sacrilege cases.
Several of his opponents within the Congress party accused him of failing to control incidents of sacrilege in the state. Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu, whom he was constantly at loggerheads with, too raked up the issue while criticising the now former CM.
The recent alleged incidents of sacrilege in Punjab could prove crucial in deciding who wins the assembly elections in a democracy where religion and politics are so entangled.

The Golden Temple death over an alleged sacrilege attempt on Saturday brings to fore the intertwined relationship of politics and sacrilege in Punjab&nbsp;

As Punjab gears up for the assembly elections due to be held in 2022, the issue of religious sacrilege has come to the forefront again.
On December 18, a man was beaten to death for an act of 'desecration' in Harmandir&nbsp;Sahib in Amritsar. This was the second incident of attempted sacrilege in four days at the Golden Temple. On December 15, an individual threw a book containing verses from the Gurbani into the holy tank. &nbsp;
Political leaders across the board condemned the issue, with some even calling this incident a conspiracy, and an attempt to disrupt the atmosphere of Punjab.&nbsp;
In a set of tweets, Chief Minister Charanjit&nbsp;Singh&nbsp;Channi&nbsp;condemned the 'the most unfortunate and heinous act to attempt sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib in the sanctum sanctorum of Sri Harimandir Sahib' and also 'assured government&rsquo;s full support and cooperation to get into the bottom of the case'.&nbsp;
Five-time chief minister Parkash Singh Badal described 'the heinous attempt to commit sacrilege at Sachkhand Shri Harmandar Sahib as deeply shocking and exceedingly painful'.&nbsp;He said that 'the whole conspiracy needs to be probed, exposed and those behind it be given exemplary punishment'.
Attacking the state government, SAD President and Badal's&nbsp;son Sukhbir&nbsp;Singh&nbsp;Badal&nbsp;stated that after the incident of a gutka&nbsp;being thrown in the sarovar&nbsp;just a few days ago,&nbsp;the state agencies could not have been unaware of a deep-rooted conspiracy that led to Saturday's shocking sequence of events.
Deputy Chief Minister&nbsp;Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa&nbsp;said, 'Had the sacrilege accused not been killed, information about the conspiracy behind the act of sacrilege could have been extracted from him and the truth come out.&rdquo; The minister, however, added that on sacrilege issue, members of Sikh community act on &ldquo;emotions&rdquo;.&nbsp;
The opposition, including BJP&nbsp;accused the Congress government of failing to 'take action' against past incidences of sacrilege.&nbsp;
On Sunday, another unidentified man was lynched in&nbsp;Kapurthala's Nizampur village over allegations of sacrilege.
Two months ago, in October, a man was lynched to death at the farmers' protest site at the Delhi borders over an alleged sacrilege attempt.&nbsp;
The issue of sacrilege has been so important in Punjab politics that the BJP-SAD govt in 2015 had to bring in a law against it and according to political analysts it is also one of factors behind the alliance&rsquo;s loss in 2017 polls.
Several incidents of desecration of the Guru Granth&nbsp;Sahib were reported across Punjab in 2015. Protests took place in various districts and highways were blocked by protestors. In one such instance, two protesting Sikhs were allegedly shot to death by police officers attempting to disperse the crowds.&nbsp;
In November 2015, the Parkash Singh Badal-led govt introduced an addition to Section 295A of the Indian Penal Code. According&nbsp;to the new law,&nbsp;the desecration of Guru Granth Sahib would lead to life imprisonment instead of earlier 2 years. The bill was passed in March 2016 but the Union Home Minister rejected the change in law on the grounds that it would violate India&rsquo;s secular principles.
The Amarinder Singh-led Congress led govt in 2018 re-introduced the law but included Srimad Bhagwad Gita, Holy Quran and Holy Bible along with the Guru Granth Sahib to cover other religions.&nbsp;
In 2017, the year of Assembly Elections, three separate incidents of attempted sacrilege were reported in different districts of Punjab.&nbsp;
During Captain Amarinder Singh&rsquo;s tenure he too faced immense pressure to ensure completion of the investigations in the 2015 sacrilege cases.
Several of his opponents within the Congress party accused him of failing to control incidents of sacrilege in the state. Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu, whom he was constantly at loggerheads with, too raked up the issue while criticising the now former CM.
The following year in 2018, torn pages of of Gutka&nbsp;were found lying&nbsp;near a Gurdwara&nbsp;in Moga district.&nbsp;
According to data given by&nbsp;the National Crime Records Bureau&nbsp;(NCRB)&nbsp; Punjab&rsquo;s rate of crimes&nbsp;registered under&nbsp;Sections 295 to 297&nbsp;of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which deal with sacrilege, was the highest between 2018 to 2020.&nbsp;
Also Watch: <a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/sacrilege-attempt-at-golden-temple-how-the-incident-unfolded-1639883952290" target="_blank">'Sacrilege' attempt at Golden Temple; how the incident unfolded</a>
The recent alleged incidents of sacrilege in Punjab could prove crucial in deciding who wins the assembly elections in a democracy where religion and politics are so entangled.

Former Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh has formally announced an alliance between his party, Punjab Lok Congress and the BJP. 
The announcement came after he met BJP's Punjab in-charge Gajendra Singh Sekhawat in Delhi. 
Speaking to reporters after meeting, Amarinder Singh said that discussions on seat sharing are still on but he confident of the winnability of their alliance. 
Speculations were rife about an alliance between the former Congress leader and the BJP after he was removed as chief minister of Punjab.  

Punjab Elections 2022: Amarinder Singh formally announces alliance with BJP

Former Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh has formally announced an alliance between his party, Punjab Lok Congress and the BJP. 

Former Punjab chief minister Amarinder&nbsp;Singh has formally announced an alliance between his party, Punjab Lok&nbsp;Congress and the BJP.&nbsp;
The announcement came after he met BJP's&nbsp;Punjab in-charge Gajendra&nbsp;Singh&nbsp;Sekhawat in Delhi.&nbsp;
Speaking to reporters after meeting, Amarinder&nbsp;Singh&nbsp;said that discussions on seat sharing are still on but he confident of the winnability&nbsp;of their alliance.&nbsp;
Speculations were rife about an alliance between the former Congress leader and the BJP&nbsp;after he was removed as chief minister of Punjab.&nbsp;&nbsp;
BITE: amarinder

Speculations were rife about an alliance between the former Congress leader and the BJP&nbsp;after he was removed as chief minister of Punjab.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Former Punjab chief minister Amarinder&nbsp;Singh has formally announced an alliance between his party, Punjab Lok&nbsp;Congress and the BJP.&nbsp;
The announcement came after he met BJP's&nbsp;Punjab in-charge Gajendra&nbsp;Singh&nbsp;Sekhawat in Delhi.&nbsp;
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Amarinder&nbsp;Singh&nbsp;said that discussions on seat sharing are still on but he is confident of the winnability&nbsp;of their alliance.&nbsp;
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/elections/punjab-elections/punjab-elections-2022-sidhu-posts-picture-with-harbhajan-sparks-off-speculation-1639576996501">Punjab Elections 2022: Sidhu posts picture with Harbhajan Singh, sparks off speculation</a>
Speculations were rife about an alliance between the former Congress leader and the BJP&nbsp;after he was removed as chief minister of Punjab.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Former Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh rubbished reports of "backend talks" with the Congress leadership to retain him in the party. &nbsp;He confirmed that he will not support but will not stay in Congress now.
Earlier, following the former Chief Minister's announcement of launching a new party, The Tribune had reported that &lsquo;senior Congress leaders are learned to be engaged in backend talks to persuade the former CM to stay in the party&rsquo;.
The newspaper reported Congress insiders as saying that the party didn't want &nbsp;Singh fielding candidates against Congress nominees in the upcoming Punjab elections.
Captain Singh, while announcing his plans for a new party, had said that many leaders were already in touch with him and that he'd reveal their names at an "opportune moment". He has also said that his new party plans to contest on all 117 assembly seats in Punjab and is discussing a seat-sharing arrangement with the BJP.

'Will not stay': Amarinder Singh rubbishes reports of 'back end' talks with Congress

Former Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh rubbished reports of "backend talks" with the Congress leadership

//Amarinder&nbsp;Singh&nbsp;rubbished reports of "backend talks" with Cong leadership
//The Tribune reported about talks to persuade Singh to stay in the party
//Singh confirmed he will not support but will not stay in Congress now
//Reports of talks after Captain announced decision to launch party

Captain Singh, while announcing his plans for a new party, had said that many leaders were already in touch with him and that he'd reveal their names at an 'opportune moment'

Former Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh rubbished reports of "backend talks" with the Congress leadership to retain him in the party. &nbsp;He confirmed that he will not stay in Congress now.
Earlier, following the former Chief Minister's announcement of launching a new party, The Tribune had reported that &lsquo;senior Congress leaders are learned to be engaged in backend talks to persuade the former CM to stay in the party&rsquo;.
The newspaper reported Congress insiders as saying that the party didn't want &nbsp;Singh fielding candidates against Congress nominees in the upcoming Punjab elections.
Captain Singh, while announcing his plans for a new party, had said that many leaders were already in touch with him and that he'd reveal their names at an "opportune moment". He has also said that his new party plans to contest on all 117 assembly seats in Punjab and is discussing a seat-sharing arrangement with the BJP.

punjab assembly election

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