PM Modi Offers Prayers at Kashi Vishwanath Amid Grand Roadshow

Varanasi roadshow and temple darshan mark key leg of PM's two-day visit to constituency

Roadshow Kicks Off with Massive Turnout

Prime Minister Narendra Modi kicked off a vibrant 14-km roadshow in Varanasi on Wednesday morning, drawing huge crowds of BJP workers and locals along the route. The procession started from Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) and wound through Lahartara, Kachahri, Ambedkar Chauraha, Chaukaghat, Teliyabag, Lahurabir, and Maidagin before reaching Kashi Vishwanath Dham. Supporters showered flowers on the convoy and danced to drum beats and traditional instruments, creating a festive atmosphere despite the morning heat.

This marks the second day of Modi's two-day visit to his parliamentary constituency—his 54th trip to Varanasi over the past 11 years and the first in 2026. His last visit was in November 2025. Initial reports from the ground indicate the crowds spilled onto streets, waving flags and chanting slogans.

Priests Welcome PM with Ceremonial Fanfare

At the temple entrance around 9:50 AM, 108 young priests, known as Batuks, gave PM Modi a traditional welcome with conch blowing and damru beats. He responded with folded hands, greeting everyone warmly. Inside, five priests led by chief priest Pandit Om Prakash Mishra performed rituals, adorning him with a garland as he offered prayers and darshan.

Modi also waved a trident during the proceedings and interacted briefly with children and other devotees in the temple premises. Local sources described the scene as charged with devotion, with the PM acknowledging supporters throughout.

Temple Visit Highlights Devotional Sequence

The darshan wrapped up smoothly by late morning, with visuals showing Modi navigating the temple corridors amid chants. Earlier, at 9:52 AM, he was seen waving to the crowd post-rituals. Party workers outside kept the energy high, though security was tight along the route.

This visit underscores Modi's deep connect with Varanasi, a city he has represented since 2014. Temples like Kashi Vishwanath hold immense cultural significance here, drawing millions annually.

Next: Ganga Expressway Inauguration

Post-temple, PM Modi headed by road to the airport alongside Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. They're en route to Hardoi for the inauguration of the 594-km Ganga Expressway, linking Meerut to Prayagraj. Officials confirmed the event as a major infra push, expected to boost connectivity and cut travel times.

The expressway project, long in the works, aligns with the government's focus on eastern UP development. Ground reports suggest it could transform logistics in the region.

Crowd Response Reflects Strong Support

Locals turned out in force despite the midweek timing, lining streets from BLW onwards. At Varanasi station earlier, the roadshow had already pulled massive crowds, per visuals around 10:29 AM. BJP cadres led the celebrations, but ordinary devotees joined in, highlighting the event's broad appeal.

No major disruptions were reported, though traffic diversions were in place till noon.

Visits Boost Local Economy, Infra Focus

Such high-profile stops invariably energize Varanasi's tourism and trader economy. The PM's itinerary reflects priorities like spiritual heritage alongside projects such as the expressway. Sources familiar with the matter said planning for the roadshow began days ago, ensuring smooth logistics.

As Modi wraps up in Hardoi, eyes will be on any announcements tied to UP's growth. For now, the Kashi Vishwanath darshan stands out as a poignant moment in his packed schedule.

BJP Files EC Complaint Over Kharge’s ‘Terrorist’ Remark on PM

Party demands apology amid poll eve heat; Yogi slams Mamata at Bengal rally ahead of Phase 1 voting

Lead Facts

Bharatiya Janata Party leaders approached the Election Commission on Tuesday against Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge for calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi a "terrorist" at a Chennai rally. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju demanded strict action and a public apology from Kharge. The EC has heard the complaint and assured appropriate steps, sources indicated.

Kharge's Rally Slip

Kharge made the remark on the last day of campaigning for Tamil Nadu assembly polls, which ended Monday. He later clarified that he meant the PM "terrorises" opponents using agencies like ED and CBI. Congress sources said the statement targeted alleged misuse of central machinery.

BJP's Sharp Response

Rijiju told reporters the Congress must apologise to the nation for insulting the PM. He added terrorism would end under Modi's leadership despite such barbs. BJP memorandum to EC cited Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections on defamation and voter influence.

Yogi Hits Mamata

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath addressed a rally in Kolkata's Jorasanko area for BJP's second-phase push. He accused Mamata Banerjee of irritation over Lord Ram's name and denying Durga Puja permissions. Yogi contrasted Bengal's "lawlessness" with UP's "Ram Rajya" peace post-2017.

Rally Highlights

A child waved a "Yogi Ji, bring bulldozer" poster at the event, drawing cheers. Yogi predicted BJP would bag 80% seats in West Bengal's first phase and hoist the saffron flag by May 4. He pitched the "double engine" model for development.

Poll Eve Buzz

Polling teams received EVMs from centres like Midnapore College and Chepauk amid tight security. International delegates observed distributions in Tamil Nadu for transparency. Campaigning ended April 20 for Tamil Nadu's 234 seats and Bengal's Phase 1 (152 seats), both voting Thursday. Counting follows May 4.thehindu+2

Tamil Nadu seized over ₹543 crore in cash and materials, lodged 163 FIRs on social media violations, per CEC Archana Patnaik. Bengal saw EVMs reach remote hills; TMC's Abhishek Banerjee promised ongoing women schemes.

Broader Impact

The row sharpens BJP-Congress tussle in poll-bound states, where opposition stays fragmented. Kejriwal backed Mamata, alleging institutional misuse. Himanta Sarma urged "Jai Shri Ram" alongside other greetings at a Kalna rally. Public discourse heats up on free voting and security.

Road Ahead

Phase 1 polls kick off April 23 in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, with Bengal's second phase April 29. EC monitors violations closely; parties eye voter turnout amid seizures and alerts. Outcomes could reshape southern and eastern politics, as per reports.

Nav Nirman Ke 9 Varsh: Uttar Pradesh Marks 9 Years of Transformation with Focus on Growth and Governance

Marking nine years of governance, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched the book “Nav Nirman Ke 9 Varsh”, highlighting the state’s transformation in security, infrastructure, employment, and governance. The event, held at Lok Bhavan, positioned the journey as a model of “double engine government” driven by the leadership of Narendra Modi.

The theme Nav Nirman Ke 9 Varsh reflects not just a political milestone but also a broader narrative of change that the government claims has reshaped Uttar Pradesh’s identity over the past decade.

From Identity Crisis to Growth Model

According to the Chief Minister, understanding Nav Nirman Ke 9 Varsh requires looking back at the pre-2017 scenario. Uttar Pradesh, despite its vast agricultural resources and cultural richness, faced challenges like unemployment, migration, poor law and order, and lack of development vision.

Farmers struggled with distress, artisans migrated for work, and youth faced limited job opportunities. Recruitment systems were often criticized for corruption, and safety concerns affected citizens across the state.

Today, the government claims a complete turnaround. Under Nav Nirman Ke 9 Varsh, Uttar Pradesh is being projected as a state with improved governance, better infrastructure, and rising investment opportunities.

Law and Order: A Key Transformation

One of the major highlights of Nav Nirman Ke 9 Varsh has been the improvement in law and order. The Chief Minister stated that the state has moved from an environment of fear and unrest to one of safety and stability.

Key developments include:

• Recruitment of over 2.19 lakh police personnel

• Training of 60,000+ officers within the state

• Introduction of cyber police stations in every district

• Implementation of the commissionerate system in major cities

Festivals like Navratri and Ramzan are now being celebrated peacefully, reflecting improved communal harmony and public confidence.

Employment generation has been a central pillar of Nav Nirman Ke 9 Varsh. The government claims:

• Over 9 lakh goverment jobs  provided

• Around 1.75 lakh women recruited in government jobs

• 3 crore  opportunities created in MSME sector

Women empowerment initiatives have also gained momentum. Schemes like Kanya Sumangala Yojana and Mukhyamantri Samuhik Vivah Yojana have supported Lakh beneficiaries. Additionally, over 1.10 crore women are now part of self-help groups, contributing to economic activities.

Infrastructure Push and Investment Boom

Infrastructure development is another major achievement highlighted under Nav Nirman Ke 9 Varsh. Uttar Pradesh now boasts:

• One of the largest expressway networks in India

• Metro services in multiple cities

• Rapid Rail connectivity between Delhi and Meerut

• Expansion of airports, including the upcoming Jewar International Airport

The state has also emerged as an investment destination, with proposals and ground-breaking projects worth Rupee. Investors from countries like Japan, Singapore, and Germany have shown increasing interest.

The agriculture sector has witnessed notable growth during Nav Nirman Ke 9 Varsh. The state government claims:

• increased to 18%

• Over ₹3.16 lakh crore sugarcane payments made

• Expansion of irrigation facilities across 56 lakh hectares

Farmers have benefited from MSP procurement, loan waivers, and central schemes, improving rural income and stability.

Budget and Future Vision

On completing Nav Nirman Ke 9 Varsh, the state government has proposed a massive budget of approximately ₹9.12 lakh crore for the upcoming financial year. The focus areas include:

• Infrastructure expansion

• Digital governance

• Social welfare schemes

A 9-day public outreach program aligned with Navratri has also been planned to engage citizens and outline the future roadmap.

Why This Matters Now

The narrative of Nav Nirman Ke 9 Varsh comes at a time when states across India are competing on development metrics, investment inflow, and governance models. Uttar Pradesh’s transformation story is being positioned as a benchmark in political and economic discourse.

For citizens, this phase reflects not just policy changes but also evolving opportunities in jobs, infrastructure, and quality of life.

The launch of Nav Nirman Ke 9 Varsh encapsulates Uttar Pradesh’s journey from challenges to claims of comprehensive development. While the government highlights achievements across sectors, the coming years will be crucial in sustaining this growth momentum and delivering on future promises.

As Uttar Pradesh moves forward, the focus remains on balancing development with inclusivity—ensuring that the benefits of this transformation reach every section of society.

In a dramatic turn at the ongoing Prayagraj Magh Mela, Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand quits Magh Mela without taking the revered Sangam holy dip. The spiritual leader departed this morning with a heavy heart, citing deep pain from recent clashes and political jabs.

The Painful Exit: What Shankaracharya Said

Addressing devotees outside his camp, Swami Avimukteshwaranand said, "My mind is extremely distressed. I'm leaving this sacred place without bathing at Sangam—something I never imagined." He rejected the administration's last-minute offer for a respectful palanquin ride to the Sangam holy dip, escorted by officials. "When the heart is filled with grief and anger, even sacred waters cannot bring peace," he added.

His vanity van rolled out at 8 AM toward Kashi after morning rituals. By noon, workers dismantled the camp, loading belongings onto vehicles.

Flashback: The Spark at Prayagraj Magh Mela

Tensions boiled over on January 18 during the Prayagraj Magh Mela. As the Shankaracharya headed for the Sangam holy dip, police allegedly halted his palanquin. Devotees protested, leading to scuffles—claims include pushing and hair-dragging.

• Shankaracharya staged an 11-day sit-in outside his camp.
  
  

• Administration sent two notices demanding proof of his title; he replied formally.
  
  

• Yesterday, they proposed a dignified bath, but he declined.
  
  

Political Firestorm Involves Yogi Adityanath

The row escalated politically. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath referenced "Kalanemi"—seen as a dig at Avimukteshwaranand—without naming him. The seer hit back, likening Yogi to Kalanemi and Aurangzeb, fueling a religious controversy with political undertones.

This matters now amid Prayagraj Magh Mela's peak, drawing lakhs for purification dips. Experts like religious analyst Pt. Ramakant Dubey note: "Such standoffs test faith in Sanatan traditions and state-religion balance. Devotees feel betrayed when rituals clash with admin hurdles."

Why It Resonates in Culture and Faith

In Uttar Pradesh's spiritual heartland, this highlights growing friction between religious leaders and governance. Actionable takeaway for pilgrims: Verify camp permissions early; respect security protocols to avoid disruptions. For authorities, clearer dialogue could prevent future holy dips from turning sour.