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Veteran Tamil superstar <keyword id="19961922" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Rajinikanth" source="keywords">Rajinikanth</keyword> was admitted to <keyword id="19896307" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Apollo-Hospitals" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Apollo Hospitals" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Apollo Hospitals">Apollo Hospitals</keyword> in Chennai late Monday after complaining of severe <keyword id="20886842" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="stomach-pain" source="keywords">stomach pain</keyword>. The 73-year-old actor, who has a massive fan following across India, was brought in for medical evaluation after experiencing significant discomfort in his abdomen, a PTI report revealed. Reports in PTI and ANI have now confirmed that the legendary actor's health is now stable, and he is scheduled to undergo an elective procedure at the hospital’s cath lab later today to address the issue near his abdomen. Sources also indicate that this is a planned procedure and is not an emergency intervention. Following the procedure, the actor will be shifted to a room and is expected to be discharged by Tuesday evening, barring any complications. Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister, <keyword id="20000822" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="M-K-Stalin" source="keywords">M K Stalin</keyword>, extended his well-wishes to the actor for a speedy recovery. Fans of the iconic star took to social media to offer prayers and express their hope for his swift return to good health, flooding platforms like Twitter and Instagram with supportive messages. As Rajinikanth rests and prepares for the procedure, there is a wave of relief amongst his admirers, many of whom were concerned about his sudden hospitalisation. The actor’s presence on the big screen has made him a household name, and any news regarding his health is followed closely by his fans. Rajinikanth, born as Shivaji Rao Gaekwad, is an Indian film superstar predominantly known for his work in <keyword id="19956636" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Tamil-cinema" source="keywords">Tamil cinema</keyword>. With a career spanning over four decades, he has appeared in more than 160 films, and his larger-than-life persona on screen has made him one of the most influential and popular actors in Indian cinema. Known for his unique style and powerful performances, Rajinikanth has a cult following that extends beyond India, particularly in Southeast Asia. Apart from his film career, he has also dabbled in politics, making headlines for his influence and statements.

Superstar Rajinikanth hospitalised after stomach pain, condition stable

Chennai (<keyword id="19896558" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tamil-nadu" source="keywords">Tamil Nadu</keyword>) [India], March 28 (ANI): Despite the 'Rising Sun' and 'Two leaves', this general election to the Tamil Nadu Lok Sabha revolves around many symbols as some heavy weights are contesting on an independent symbol. Former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, O Pannerselvam, will contest independently, on an independent symbol from Ramanathapuram constituency. MDMK Headquarters Secretary Durai Vaiko will face the election on an independent symbol from Trichy Constituency. Likewise, <keyword id="21108992" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="naam-thamizlar-katchi" source="keywords">Naam Thamizlar Katchi</keyword> (NTK), which failed took get the Sugarcane farmer as its symbol, is now contesting with the <keyword id="20862692" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="microphone" source="keywords">Microphone</keyword> symbol in all constituencies of Tamil Nadu. <keyword id="21109299" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="naam-thamilar-party" source="keywords">Naam Thamilar Party</keyword> coordinator Seeman says that the Microphone symbol gives them hope. The NTK is contesting outside the principal alliances in the state. "Even though we didn't get our sugarcane famer symbol, we are contesting with hope in the 'Mic' symbol. Many revolutionaries used this equipment to put forth their slogans," NTK leader Seeman said. TTV Dhinakaran's AMMK will contest the elections using the <keyword id="20401835" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="pressure-cooker" source="keywords">Pressure Cooker</keyword> symbol. The 'Pressure cooker' is the lucky symbol on which he had won the RK Nagar by-poll after the death of former Tamil Nadu CM J Jayalalitha amidst political drama in Tamil Nadu after former CM Jayalalitha's demise. For the candidates it is a question of proving their worth on an unrecognised symbol. O Pannerselvam who was ousted from the AIADMK is out to prove that he still has the support of AIADMK cadres as he seeks victory in Ramanathapuram constituency. "Symbol is a way of identifying with voters, with their ideology. With regard to DMK we have Rising Sun, it symbolise sun will drive away the darkness of ignorance darkness of oppression. Every political party will ask for symbol which signifies their ideology signifies the DNA of the party so that why symbols are important," says DMK spokesperson Sarvanan. Meanwhile, DMK ally Vaiko's MDMK is looking to bolster its vote share to ensure it gets a recognized symbol for the next elections. The ECI refused to allocate the 'Top' symbol to MDMK, saying the party is contesting only in one constituency. The MDMK was under pressure from alliance big-brother DMK to contest on the DMK Rising Sun symbol but Vaiko's party felt it would be better to strike out on an independent symbol. Vaiko's son Durai Vaiko had broken down in a public rally saying, "We are facing indirect pressure to contest the DMK symbol, but that would affect our party's image. Whatever it takes, he would contest their party's independent symbol." In Tamil Nadu's political history, the symbol for the election is a prestigious issue. When former CM and MDMK founder MG Ramachandran passed away, the AIADMK split. One faction was led by MGR's wife Janaki and the other by Jayalalitha. At that time, AIADMK two leaves symbol was frozen and Jayalalitha contest on an independent symbol of 'Two Pigeons' while Janaki's faction was given the Seval (Rooster) as its symbol. For the voter a multitude of symbols could be confusing, so it is really up to the individual leaders to woo their cadres to ensure that their symbol prevails. (ANI)

Microphone to Pressure Cooker - small Tamil parties wage war of symbols

Mumbai, <keyword id="19897254" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tamil" source="keywords">Tamil</keyword> superstar <keyword id="19902056" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="vijay" source="keywords">Vijay</keyword>, who was recently seen in 'Leo', and is awaiting the release of his upcoming film 'The Goat Life', has decided to quit cinema for his political career. He announced his political party, <keyword id="20429636" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tamilaga-vettri-kazhagam" source="keywords">Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam</keyword>, on Friday. The actor said that he will quit cinema after completing two films ('GOAT' and an untitled film) to become a full-fledged politician in <keyword id="19896558" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tamil-nadu" source="keywords">Tamil Nadu</keyword>. His party members will contest in the 2026 elections. The actor recently met Class 10 and 12 students and also offered aid to people affected by the recent floods in <keyword id="19895758" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="chennai" source="keywords">Chennai</keyword>. In a long official statement, the actor said that there is a need for political power to do social work in a full-fledged manner. The actor's official account on X posted: "You all are well aware of the political situation of Tamil Nadu. On one side, we have a dysfunctional administration and corrupt political culture, and on the other, we have divisive politics that aims to divide people along the lines of caste, creed, and religion. Both impede our progress. It is an incontestable truth that people, more so in Tamil Nadu, are longing for a change in a political scenario and want a selfless, honest, secular and talented party to bring about a change." Vijay announced that he will be contesting in the 2026 state legislative assembly elections and will pave the way for the 'desired political transformation sought by the people of Tamil Nadu'. The statement further mentioned: "Upon the approval of the election ordinance, our party's policies, manifestos, strategies, and programs will be unveiled, and our political journey for the people of Tamil Nadu will commence. Our party will proceed with the necessary diligence, ensuring that all activities align with the party's mission and goals, prioritising the interests of the people of Tamil Nadu. Therefore, my prolonged commitment to politics is not merely a profession but a sacred duty to the people. Politics, in my perspective, is not a pastime; it is my profound endeavour." "So, I will complete the project I have accepted now, making sure that it doesn't affect my political service. And I will embark on this journey to serve the people of Tamil Nadu fully, without any distractions. That, I believe, is my debt of gratitude to the people of Tamil Nadu", he added in the statement," he concluded.

Superstar Vijay to quit films for a political career, announces new political party

Laapata Ladies, Bridgerton and Heeramandi might have dominated the OTT cycle last month, but none of these dramas can hold a candle to the absolute thriller that unfolded during the Lok Sabha election cycle this year. While the parties scramble to decide their allegiances, most people are already convinced about a result familiar to the previous two general elections: <keyword id="20509939" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Modi-3-0" source="keywords">Modi 3.0</keyword>. However, the road to the end has proven anything but a bed of lotuses for the Bharatiya Janata Party (<keyword id="19894848" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="BJP" source="keywords">BJP</keyword>). Despite staunch optimism of winning 400 out of 543 seats, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (<keyword id="19938590" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="NDA" source="keywords">NDA</keyword>) managed to capture only 293 — a margin barely above the 272 seats majority, and dozens below their 2014 and 2019 standings. Then came the fact that the BJP, with only 240 seats won, would have to be supported by two major partner parties: the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the Janata Dal (United), if they wished to finalise a majority and form the next Lok Sabha. This meant that the ball currently remains in the courts of these two quintessential “Kingmakers”; will they keep their pre-poll promises to ensure the continuity of Mr Modi, or usurp him by joining the opposition <keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="INDIA" source="keywords">INDIA</keyword> bloc? This mystery may linger not just this week, but throughout the term of the next government given the fickle nature of the Indian political system. As we move into the final few legs of this political marathon, the story has only taken a turn for the juicier. According to media reports, INDIA has now offered the position of Deputy Prime Minister to JD(U) Nitish Kumar and a special status to Andhra Pradesh (with TDP majority) if the parties align with the alliance and forsake their NDA partnership. If they agree, the INDIA-TDP-JD(U) coalition could overthrow BJP-NDA to form the government, making for the biggest <keyword id="21945335" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="political-plot-twist" source="keywords">political plot twist</keyword> in decades. While we wait for the historical gavel to drop, let’s take a look back at the other bombshells to have come out of the tallying process so far. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="BJP falls short of majority" comment="subhead" text="BJP falls short of majority">BJP falls short of majority</cmsannotation> Despite battle cries of ‘Abki baar 400 par’, the Modi-led party has failed to cross the required 272 seats necessary for a clear majority and stands far below their performances in 2014 and 2019. They are no longer self-sufficient enough to make a third term without the support from allies. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="BJP loses ground in Hindi Heartland" comment="subhead" text="BJP loses ground in Hindi Heartland">BJP loses ground in Hindi Heartland</cmsannotation> The northern states, which constitute a large section of the Hindi-speaking population, have been considered BJP’s biggest loyalists. Despite this, the party has faced unexpected stiff competition in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chandigarh and Haryana. These are crucial states for the BJP, as they hold a large number of seats and losing a majority of these seats has weakened their moral position. While some blame the loss on the anger of dominant castes in the region, others say that the party ignored these stronghold regions in pursuit of expansion to the east and south. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="NDA wins below 300 seats, far below landslide 400 predictions" comment="subhead" text="NDA wins below 300 seats, far below landslide 400 predictions">NDA wins below 300 seats, far below landslide 400 predictions</cmsannotation> Not only has BJP itself been unable to capture the required majority, their NDA coalition hasn’t even touched 300 Lok Sabha seats. This indicates a significant loss of public support compared to predictions. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="BJP loses Ram Temple Constituency" comment="subhead" text="BJP loses Ram Temple Constituency">BJP loses <keyword id="41267" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ram-temple" source="Orion">Ram Temple</keyword> Constituency</cmsannotation> Construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has been one of BJP’s most prominent election promises in the past two elections. Despite delivering on this front, the party has lost the Faizabad seat to Samajwadi Party candidate Awadhesh Prasad. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Lotus blooms down south" comment="subhead" text="Lotus blooms down south">Lotus blooms down south</cmsannotation> BJP opened its account for the first time in Kerala with a win for actor-turned-politician Suresh Gopi at the Thrissur seat. In Telangana, both BJP and Congress put up a strong performance by winning eight seats each and sidelining the regional parties. However, for the BJP, Tamil Nadu was a disappointment as it failed to win even one seat despite immense push from all quarters. The party did manage to increase the vote share to double digits despite a lack of support from the regional parties. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="BJP wins all Delhi seats" comment="subhead" text="BJP wins all Delhi seats">BJP wins all Delhi seats</cmsannotation> Making a hat-trick, the BJP won all seven Lok Sabha seats in Delhi for the third time, beating the Congress-AAP alliance. <h3>Individual/Regional Politics</h3><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Rahul Gandhi wins two seats" comment="subhead" text="Rahul Gandhi wins two seats">Rahul Gandhi wins two seats</cmsannotation> After a risky contest for two seats in Kerala’s Wayanad and Uttar Pradesh’s Rae Bareli, the Congress leader has won both by a massive margin. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Kangana Ranaut wins Himachal seat" comment="subhead" text="Kangana Ranaut wins Himachal seat"><keyword id="10343350" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="kangana-ranaut-wins" source="Orion">Kangana Ranaut wins</keyword> Himachal seat</cmsannotation> The celebrity candidate’s debut resulted in a strong win for the Mandi seat for BJP. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Smriti Irani loses" comment="subhead" text="Smriti Irani loses">Smriti Irani loses</cmsannotation> Despite high expectations, Smriti Irani loses the Amethi seat by a large margin to Congress’ Kishori Lal Sharma. This is a high-profile defeat for a key BJP figure. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Shashi Tharoor faces a brief hiccup" comment="subhead" text="Shashi Tharoor faces a brief hiccup">Shashi Tharoor faces a brief hiccup</cmsannotation> Earlier trends had briefly indicated trouble for the recurrent Thiruvananthapuram MP. However, the tides turned quickly, handing Tharoor the win over Rajeev Chandrasekhar. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Former cricketer Yusuf Pathan wins" comment="subhead" text="Former cricketer Yusuf Pathan wins">Former cricketer Yusuf Pathan wins</cmsannotation> Stepping up to politics for the first time, cricketer turned politician Yusuf Pathan won West Bengal’s Baharampur seat for the Trinamool Congress. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Jailed pro-Khalistani candidate victorious in Punjab" comment="subhead" text="Jailed pro-Khalistani candidate victorious in Punjab">Jailed pro-Khalistani candidate victorious in Punjab</cmsannotation> Amritpal Singh, a notable Khalistan supporter and independent candidate clinched the Khadoor Sahib seat from jail in Punjab. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Sexual assault-accused Prajwal Revanna pulls considerable vote share" comment="subhead" text="Sexual assault-accused Prajwal Revanna pulls considerable vote share">Sexual assault-accused Prajwal Revanna pulls considerable vote share</cmsannotation> Despite a final win by Congress candidate Shreyas M. Patel in Karnataka’s Hassan constituency, JD(U)’s Prajwal Revanna garnered 46.5% of the total votes. This has occurred despite being in police custody and having a massive sexual assault case lodged against the candidate. <h3>Other notable events</h3><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Indore sets record for highest NOTA voters" comment="subhead" text="Indore sets record for highest NOTA voters">Indore sets record for highest NOTA voters</cmsannotation> Controversy had earlier erupted in Indore after Congress candidate Akshya Kanti Bam deferred to BJP shortly before the voting process had begun. In response, over 2 lakh voters placed their bets on ‘None of the Above’, expressing dissatisfaction with the choices presented to them. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Stock market falls by COVID-19 levels" comment="subhead" text="Stock market falls by COVID-19 levels">Stock market falls by COVID-19 levels</cmsannotation> Anticipating an easy win and stable third term for Modi, the Indian stock surged right before the election. However, government uncertainty later on spurred the Nifty and BSE Sensex indices to crash by as much as 8.5%.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Biggest shockers to come out of the thrilling election results

A staggering 93 per cent of the candidates who won the 2024 <keyword id="56978" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Lok-Sabha-elections" source="Orion">Lok Sabha elections</keyword> are <keyword id="6366800" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="crorepatis" source="Orion">crorepatis</keyword>, up from 88 per cent in 2019, according to an analysis by poll rights body <keyword id="484381" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Association-of-Democratic-Reforms" source="Orion">Association of Democratic Reforms</keyword> (<keyword id="45376" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ADR" source="Orion">ADR</keyword>). The top three wealthiest candidates are TDP's Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani from Andhra Pradesh's Guntur constituency with assets worth Rs 5,705 crore, BJP's Konda Vishweshwar Reddy from Telangana's Chevella with total assets amounting to Rs 4,568 crore and BJP's Naveen Jindal from Haryana's Kurukshetra with assets worth Rs 1,241 crore. Out of the 543 winning candidates, 504 are crorepatis, the analysis found. In 2019, 475 (88 per cent) winning candidates were crorepatis and 443 (82 per cent) in 2014. The trend indicates a steady climb since 2009 when only 315 (58 per cent) MPs were crorepatis. According to the analysis, 227 (95 per cent) of the BJP's 240 winning candidates, 92 (93 per cent) of the Congress' 99, 21 (95 per cent) of the DMK's 22, 27 (93 per cent) of the TMC's 29 and 34 (92 per cent) of the Samajwadi Party's 37 candidates have declared assets worth more than Rs 1 crore. All winning candidates of the AAP (3), the JDU (12) and the TDP (16) are crorepatis, ADR data showed. The analysis also delves into candidates' chances of winning based on their financial backgrounds. It found that the probability of a crorepati candidate clinching victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections stood at 19.6 per cent, compared to a meagre 0.7 per cent for candidates with assets less than a crore. The analysis also provides a breakdown of wealth distribution among the winning candidates. The data showed that 42 per cent of the candidates possess assets totalling Rs 10 crore and above. While 19 per cent of the candidates fall within the bracket of Rs 5 to 10 crore, 32 per cent hold assets ranging between Rs 1 and 5 crore. Only about 1 per cent of the winning candidates have assets worth less than Rs 20 lakh. Among major parties, the average assets per winning candidate vary significantly. The TDP leads with an average of Rs 442.26 crore per winner, followed by the BJP with Rs 50.04 crore, the DMK with Rs 31.22 crore, the Congress with Rs 22.93 crore, TMC with Rs 17.98 crore and SP with Rs 15.24 crore. The analysis also highlights disparities within the financial profiles of winning candidates. While some boast of substantial assets, others have relatively low worth. For instance, BJP's Jyotirmay Singh Mahato from West Bengal's Purulia has declared assets totalling a mere Rs 5 lakh. Similarly, TMC's Mitali Bag from West Bengal's Arambag holds assets worth Rs 7 lakh. Assets of SP's Priya Saroj from Uttar Pradesh's Machhlishahr are valued at Rs 11 lakh. In addition, the analysis identifies candidates with high liabilities. TDP's Pemmasani tops the list with liabilities exceeding Rs 1,038 crore. DMK's S Jagathratchakan from Tamil Nadu's Arakkonam has liabilities worth Rs 649 crore and TDP's Prabhakar Reddy Vemireddy from Andhra Pradesh's Nellore has liabilities worth Rs 197 crore.

93% of Lok Sabha 2024 poll winners are crorepatis: ADR analysis

New Delhi [India], June 4 (ANI): With counting slated for today for the <keyword id="19923279" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Lok-Sabha-elections" source="keywords">Lok Sabha elections</keyword>, which have seen the largest voter participation, the electoral fate of several leaders across the political spectrum will be decided. Prime Minister <keyword id="19895781" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Narendra-Modi" source="keywords">Narendra Modi</keyword>, Home Minister <keyword id="19899491" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Amit-Shah" source="keywords">Amit Shah</keyword> and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh are among the senior BJP leaders in the fray. Key opposition leaders, including former Congress chief <keyword id="19895780" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Rahul-Gandhi" source="keywords">Rahul Gandhi</keyword>, NCP's <keyword id="20083020" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Supriya-Sule" source="keywords">Supriya Sule</keyword> and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, are also contesting the poll. <div type="javascript" title="Custom" contenttype="Infographic"><cdata><![CDATA[]]></cdata></div> Here is a look at some key contests involving prominent leaders: 1. Narendra Modi: Prime Minister Modi, is seeking a third term from Varanasi, the constituency that paved his way to the Lok Sabha after his stint as Chief Minister. He is pitted against Congress leader and INDIA bloc candidate Ajay Rai. PM Modi won the seat by huge margins in 2014 and 2019. 2. Amit Shah: The Union Home Minister entered the Lok Sabha in 2019 from Gandhinagar and is seeking his second straight term from the seat, which has been held by BJP veterans in the past. Shah, who earlier served as BJP President, is against Congress candidate Sonal Patel. 3. Rahul Gandhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is contesting the Lok Sabha elections from two seats -- Wayanad and Raebareli. Gandhi, who lost the family bastion seat of Amethi in 2019 and entered the Lok Sabha from Wayanad, is aiming to maintain the party's lone bastion left in the state. He is up against BJP's Dinesh Pratap Singh and BJP's K. Surendran, as well as CPI-M's Annie Raja in Wayanad. 4. Supriya Sule and <keyword id="20734555" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sunetra-pawar" source="keywords">Sunetra Pawar</keyword>: The Baramati constituency is another 'hot seat' that will decide the future of the 'Pawar' legacy. NCP supremo Sharad Pawar's daughter Supriya Sule is against his cousin Ajit Pawar's wife, Sunetra Pawar, from the seat. The exit polls have predicted a tight contest. 5. <keyword id="42749" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Shashi-Tharoor" source="Orion">Shashi Tharoor</keyword>: Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, who is a three-time MP from Thiruvananthapuram, is facing a three-way contest against BJP's Rajeev Chandrasekhar and CPI-M's Panniyan Ravindran. The exit polls have predicted a tight contest. 6. K. Annamalai: BJP Tamil Nadu chief and rising face in the south, K Annamalai, is aiming to make the party's inroads in the state. Contesting from Coimbatore, the former cop is up against DMK leader Ganapathy P Rajkumar and AIADMK's Singai Ramachandran. 7. Rajnath Singh: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is seeking a third term from Lucknow. The former Uttar Pradesh CM served as the Home Minister in BJP's first term and Defence Minister in the second term. Singh is facing SP candidate Ravidas Mehrotra and BSP candidate Sarwar Malik. 8. Abhishek Banerjee: As the BJP is aiming to make further inroads in West Bengal, and TMC is looking to maintain its fortress, TMC general secretary and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's nephew Abhishek Banerjee is contesting from Diamond Harbour seeking a second term from the seat. Banerjee is pitted against CPI(M) candidate Pratikur Rahaman and BJP's Abhijit Das. 9. Akhilesh Yadav: Former Uttar Pradesh CM and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav made a surprise entry in the Lok Sabha polls, announcing his candidature from Kannauj. Yadav, who is an MLA from Karhal assembly constituency, is facing incumbent MP and BJP leader Subrat Pathak. 10. Asaduddin Owaisi: The Hyderabad constituency is bracing for a big showdown with four-time MP and All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen chief Asaduddin Owaisi facing a challenge against BJP candidate and actor-turned-politician Madhavi Latha. The Lok Sabha elections for 543 seats of the lower house were held across seven phases. The counting of votes will take place on Tuesday, June 4. The Bharatiya Janata Party is eyeing a third straight term in power, while the Opposition under the umbrella of the INDIA bloc is seeking to wrest power from the ruling party. Meanwhile, all the exit polls have predicted the BJP returning to power with a resounding majority, with further inroads in Odisha, West Bengal, and southern states.

From Modi and Shah to Gandhi and Tharoor, here's a look at some key Lok Sabha seats ahead of election results

<ul><li><keyword id="559334" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="actor-Rajinikanth">Actor Rajinikanth</keyword> announced that he will not be taking the political plunge and launching his own party as promised in 2021 citing a ‘warning from God’.</li><li>He was recently discharged from a Hyderabad hospital after being treated for blood pressure fluctuations.</li><li>The 70-year old asserted that he will continue to serve the people of Tamil Nadu in whatever way he can without entering electoral politics.</li></ul>Tamil Nadu is bracing for the state assembly election in 2021. A big chunk of the polity i.e. the fans of <keyword id="14509" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Rajinikanth">Rajinikanth</keyword> have already been disappointed by the Super Star, who has, once again, decided not to launch a political party. This wasn’t the first time the 70-year old actor⁠— who has enjoyed a demigod status in the southern state for decades⁠— has pulled back on the promise of a political party. However, his last declaration was that a new political outfit (with a “spiritual” ideology) would be born by year end. That has come to a nought. Rajinikanth’s decision to avoid the ring has left the upcoming election as a battle between the two large, entrenched parties ⁠— the incumbent All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), the biggest challenger Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), and some emerging contenders like the Makkal Needhi Mayyam led by actor Kamal Haasan and Naam Tamilar Katchi led by director-turned-politician Seeman to name a few. Here’s the translation of Rajinikanth’s latest letter addressed to the people of Tamil Nadu: Greetings to the loving people of Tamil Nadu who have been the source of my life/livelihood. Having ignored the warnings from doctors, I had announced that I would notify my new political party in January, and headed for a film shoot in Hyderabad. The 120-member crew was tested daily for coronavirus and steps were taken to ensure social distancing and use of masks, as the shooting progressed. Despite the controlled environment, we found out today that four people had contracted the virus. Immediately, the director stopped the shooting and got everyone, including me, tested. While I tested negative for COVID-19, my blood pressure was found to be a bit volatile. Medical opinion says that having such sharp rise and fall in blood pressure for a long-enough time might badly affect my kidney that was recently transplanted. Therefore, as advised by my doctors, I had to spend three days in a hospital under supervision. Considering my health issues, the producer, Kalanithi Maran, has deferred the shooting for the rest of the film. Due to this, many people have lost their jobs, suffered losses worth crores, and all this has been caused by my poor health. I see this as a warning from God. Once I have started the party, campaigning through news channels and social media will not be enough to create awareness among people about my political ideology and win big in the election. It’s a fact that no one with experience in politics will deny. I would have to go out on campaign, meet people and draw thousands of people, maybe even lakhs, for my rallies. I had to spend three days under medical supervision in a hospital after COVID-19 struck us among just a 120-member crew. Now, this pandemic has a new strain and a second wave is looming large. Even after a vaccine is available, if I, who has to consume immunosuppressants, have any health issue during the campaign, it may cause a lot of trouble ⁠—physical, economic and mental⁠— to me, and to those who have placed their trust in me and my political journey. I do not want to use those who trust me as sacrificial lambs in the fear of criticism for having gone back on my promise that I wouldn’t worry about my life, and will start a political party. Therefore, I share with deep sadness that I won’t be able to launch a party and enter politics. Only I know how much it hurts me to say this. I seek forgiveness from all members of the Rajini Makkal Mandram and all the fans who have been disappointed/betrayed by my decision. Members of the Rajini Makkal Mandram have, over the last three years, bound by my words, acted with restraint, virtue and honesty, and continued to serve people even during the pandemic. The efforts will not go in vain. The fruits of your virtuous behaviour (punniyam) will protect you and your family. When we met on November 30, you all unanimously said that “my good health will be your priority and whatever decision I take, you will agree to it.” I will never forget it till I am alive. I bow in front of your love and affection towards me. Let the Rajini Makkal Mandram continue working as always. I want to share my heartfelt gratitude to the honourable Tamizharuvi Manian Ayya for supporting me and telling me to focus on my health for the last three years, in the face of every criticism. I am also duty bound to thank Arjun Murthy who left a responsible position in a big party to work with me. Whatever service I can provide to the people, without entering electoral politics, I will continue to do that. I have never been afraid to speak the truth. It is my earnest request to the fans, who love me and help me thrive, who care for truth, transparency, and my wellbeing, to accept my decision. Long live Tamils! May Tamil Nadu prosper! Jai Hind! Affectionately, Rajnikanth Superstar with a super impact Rajinikanth’s decision may be seen as a setback for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ⁠— to which Prime Minister Narendra Modi belongs ⁠— which has had little or no influence in the state so far. The party was hoping to ride on Rajinikanth’s popularity to create a bank of Hindu-nationalist vote in a state that has been led by the Dravidian ideology (atheist more in principle than practice) for over five decades. National parties, including the Indian National Congress, have only been marginal players in Tamil Nadu where local identities and leaders have found resounding support. “My own assessment is that those who would like to join the BJP may also join Rajinikanth’s party,” S Gurumurthy, the 71-year old editor of the iconic Tamil Magazine Tughlaq⁠— a board member at the Reserve Bank of India, and a long-time ideologue for Hindu majoritarian politics, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the BJP⁠— <a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/impact-of-rajinis-entry-will-be-similar-to-mgrs-says-gurumurthy/article33273887.ece">said earlier this month</a>. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/corporates/news/three-anil-ambani-companies-accused-of-fraud-ten-times-more-than-vijay-mallya/articleshow/80002892.cms">Three Anil Ambani companies have reportedly been accused of fraud by banks⁠ — the amount at stake is nearly ten times more than what Mallya owed</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/corporates/news/jack-ma-ant-group-asked-to-overhaul-its-business-model-by-china-central-bank/articleshow/79987683.cms">China's central bank wants Jack Ma's Ant Group to overhaul its business model</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/science/environment/news/top-10-most-expensive-natural-disasters-of-2020-in-the-world/slidelist/79986294.cms">Cyclone Amphan was the most expensive cyclone of 2020 and the fourth most expensive natural disaster overall</a>

A 'warning from God' makes Rajinikanth break the promise of launching a political party

<keyword id="58371" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Udhayanidhi-Stalin" source="Orion">Udhayanidhi Stalin</keyword>, <keyword id="15780289" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="son-of-Chief-Minister-M-K-Stalin" source="Orion">son of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin</keyword> was sworn-in as a minister in his father's cabinet on Wednesday. <keyword id="20154" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tamil-nadu" source="Orion">Tamil Nadu</keyword> Governor R.N. Ravi administered the oath office to him. The swearing-in ceremony was held at Durbar Hall and was attended by several dignitaries. All senior ministers of the <keyword id="60930" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="stalin" source="Orion">Stalin</keyword> cabinet were present during the ceremony. The junior Stalin took the oath of office in Tamil. Udhayanidhi will be the third generation from the Karunanidhi family to become a minister in Tamil Nadu after his late grandfather 'Kalaignar' Karunanidhi and father M.K. Stalin. Udhayanidhi, a movie actor and producer was elected from the Chepauk Assembly constituency which was represented by his late grandfather, Kalaignar Karunanidhi in the 2021 Assembly elections with a huge majority. The young scion of the Karunanidhi family is likely to get the Sports and Youth Affairs portfolio along with the portfolio of programme implementation. With Tamil Nadu moving ahead in implementing several sports hubs, Udhayanidhi is likely to get the responsibility in implementing this. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/international/news/us-to-issue-64716-additional-h-2b-visas-for-fiscal-year-2023/articleshow/96214720.cms" style="">US to issue 64,716 additional H-2B visas for fiscal year 2023</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/news/indias-jet-set-heres-how-billionaires-earned-lost-and-donated-in-2022/articleshow/96206744.cms" style="">India’s jet-set: Here’s how billionaires earned, lost and donated in 2022</a>

Udhayanidhi Stalin sworn-in as minister in Tamil Nadu

Chennai, Tamil Nadu's ruling <keyword id="19897149" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="dmk" source="keywords">DMK</keyword>, a key constituent of the INDIA bloc, in its manifesto released on Wednesday promised to repeal the Citizenship Amendment Act, 2019 if the opposition alliance wins the <keyword id="19895394" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="lok-sabha" source="keywords">Lok Sabha</keyword> polls. Restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir and holding polls there, scrapping the New Education Policy 2020, slashing fuel prices, annulling Article 361 of the Constitution that provides protection to governors from legal action and appointment of Governors following consultation with Chief Ministers, were among the key promises made by the DMK. The recommendations of the M S Swaminathan committee will be adopted to ensure that MSP for agricultural products "is set at total production cost plus 50 per cent," the DMK said. Also, it announced that if voted to power, the INDIA bloc will withdraw the Agnipath scheme and reintroduce "permanent recruitment service" in the Indian Armed forces. "From now on, population census, including caste-wise census and census concerning people below the poverty line, will be conducted by the Union government once every five years simultaneously." The DMK will firmly insist on the removal of Article 356, which allows the dismissal of duly elected state governments and imposition of President's rule. The Congress party's ally in Tamil Nadu said that "new constraints" on States' borrowing capacity, imposed by the union government beyond the limits in each state's FRBM-equivalent Act will be eliminated. "A recommendation to share cess revenues with states will be made. It will be proposed that the Finance Commission increase the horizontal devolution of tax revenue (to all States together) from 42 per cent to 50 per cent." The Union government's financial contributions to states will be based on the income tax and GST collected in those states. Thus, financial contributions will be assured based on the taxes collected within each state. The finance provided to states will be permanently determined based on the 1971 population. A 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and legislative assemblies will be implemented immediately. "DMK will insist that the Union government enact a law providing menstrual leave to women, emphasizing the journey towards gender equality." Petrol and diesel prices "will be set at Rs 75, Rs 65 (per litre)" and cooking gas cylinders shall be made available at Rs 500 (per cylinder). "The introduction of the Uniform Civil Code will be strictly prevented" to preserve India's secular nature as stated in the Constitution's preamble. "The 2019 CAA law will be repealed, and all minorities will be treated equally without any discrimination. The recommendations of the Sachar Committee for the improvement of the lives of Muslims and other minority communities will be implemented." Facilitation will be provided for <keyword id="21027983" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sri-lankan-tamil" source="keywords">Sri Lankan Tamil</keyword> refugees to get Indian citizenship. Assistance will be provided to those who wish to return to Sri Lanka. Also, the manifesto said efforts will be made to implement reservation for minorities at the all-India level, similar to Tamil Nadu. "The financial assistance previously provided to minority educational institutions has now been stopped. Action will be taken to resume this assistance." For "political" reasons, funding from foreign countries to non-governmental organisations (NGOs) has currently been stopped. "The Foreign Exchange Regulation Act will be properly amended, and measures will be taken to ensure these financial aids continue to reach NGOs without any problems." The proposal of 'One Nation, One Election' will be abandoned, and for the allocation of Lok Sabha seats to states, the current practice, based on the 1971 census will continue. All "people-unfriendly" laws introduced by the BJP government over the last 10 years will be reviewed immediately by the INDIA alliance government. The "labour-hostile laws" introduced by the BJP government will be "reformed." Through the Employees' Provident Fund (EPF), the Union government will ensure a minimum pension of Rs 5,000 per month. The number of working days under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act will be increased from 100 to 150 days. "A wage of Rs 400 will be provided across states/ union territories nationwide." Disbanding the current NITI Aayog, set up by the BJP regime and establishing again the Planning Commission to draft plans based on the requests of state governments is another assurance the DMK has made. "Measures will be taken to reclaim Kachchatheevu to ensure India's security and to protect the welfare of the fishermen." A mandatory "cooling-off period" of 2 years will be introduced for retired judges and secretaries before they could join private companies or political parties, the manifesto said. Waiving loans and interests for farmers in nationalised and scheduled banks, waiver of educational loans for students, monthly entitlement of Rs 1,000 for all women in every state and formation of <keyword id="21027984" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="state-development-council" source="keywords">State Development Council</keyword> by including Chief Ministers were among the promises made by the DMK. Exemption for Tamil Nadu from the NEET exam and complete removal of toll booths on national highways, forms part of poll promises of the Dravidian party. Further, the DMK said amendments will be made to relevant laws to ensure that state governments, elected by the people, appoint Vice-Chancellors to state-run universities, rather than Governors. Stopping government's divestment from public sector enterprises, implementing the Sethusamudram project, law to ban online gambling, setting up a <keyword id="19895345" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="supreme-court" source="keywords">Supreme Court</keyword> branch in Chennai, providing statehood for <keyword id="19901639" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="puducherry" source="keywords">Puducherry</keyword>, equal funding for all state languages including Tamil, were among the host of other promises made by the DMK. Establishment of Tamil departments in varsities and stopping construction of <keyword id="19950851" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="mekedatu" source="keywords">Mekedatu</keyword> dam were also promised by the DMK. "The <keyword id="19996334" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="vishwakarma-scheme" source="keywords">Vishwakarma Scheme</keyword>, introduced by the BJP government to encourage caste-based occupations, will be restructured on the basis of social justice."

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