Tuesday, May, 13,2025

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Modi’s principal troubleshooter Amit Shah makes Congress and Opposition speechless on electoral bonds, says Dr Chandra

Revealing why no party wants to delve deep into the issue of political funding prior to 2019, Dr Jagdeesh Chandra stresses that Opposition parties tried to corner the BJP over the electoral bond issue. However, Amit Shah turned the tables on them as details were revealed that the Opposition was, in fact, a bigger beneficiary than the BJP of the scheme. Dr Chandra reveals why there was a divide in the SC Bar Association on the matter, why ED action on some of the donors could not tarnish BJP’s image in people’s eyes, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s take on the matter, and the role played by the Election Commission and SBI. Excerpts... (Part II)

  • Why is no one interested in knowing the details about the funds received prior to March 14, 2019?
    Dr Jagdeesh Chandra:
    There are two reasons for it. Firstly, no one wants to throw more stones in the mud. As of now, both donors and political parties are scared that this controversy has brought an unnecessary bad name to them. Secondly, they had targeted BJP, but all of them came under fire while the BJP came out unscathed. Look at the arguments BJP has given, and they are overconfident on this issue, hence questioning other parties and their leaders over it. Amit Shah asked Rahul Gandhi where his party got Rs 1600 crore in funding.
  • Why did the Supreme Court reject the demand to give information about bonds prior to March, 2019?
    Supreme Court might have thought about how deep will people dig and if SC has this one job only. So it said that the court has taken a conscience decision not to open this case more than the said date. And the topic ends there itself.
  • Out of the bonds worth Rs 20,000 crore, BJP got bonds worth Rs 6,300 crore and the remaining went to other political parties. However, fingers were raised only on BJP. Why was it so?
    This was the interesting part of the whole episode that a perception was being created. Even Amit Shah pointed that out. Shah said that his party has 303 members in the house and his party received Rs 6,300 crore and the remaining 242 members of other parties received around Rs 14,000 crore, so who is the real beneficiary of this scheme? He also threw an open challenge that he is ready to debate or answer questions if anyone wants to do so. So in the beginning, a perception of sorts was created, but that perception failed to gain friction. In the beginning, BJP leaders also felt a little pressure on the issue, but when they looked at the facts and when Amit Shah and other teams of the BJP worked through it, they realised that their party was on a better footing as compared to others. Also, the general public too understood that BJP is only Rs 6,300 crore and the remaining goes to other political parties.
  • It is said that the nonBJP government and the companies or people that funded them were embarrassed. What is your take on that?
    In fact, Amit Shah had answered on this very aspect saying that people are afraid since they want secrecy over which party they gave funds to. Suppose I give some funds to BRS, BJD or TMC why would I want that the BJP or any other party should come to know of it? So every person wants to avoid this dilemma that their details come forward.
  • Union Home Minister Amit Shah once again has come across as a troubleshooter for Modi government amidst this controversy. How do you see that?
    That’s true. Since day one he has been the principal troubleshooter for PM Narendra Modi who is his Guru, boss, Godfather, guide etc. I have been observing this since their time in Gujarat. Interestingly, it has been observed in the Delhi media especially that earlier there used to be some sort of fear regarding Amit Shah and people used to shy away from talking, but today he appears to be extremely friendly, approachable and has become popular in media. That is why someone told me recently that it now seems he has learnt the lessons regarding media in his ‘Guru Narendra Modi’s class’. Also, he talks logically. I have seen people want to meet him and strike up a conversation because Shah does not like to hide anything but give a logical and practical answer to questions. When he gave all the reasons and logic in this issue, the media persons were left impressed and he completely changed the focus from BJP to other parties as he gave all the details which revealed that the TMC received Rs 1,609 crore, Congress Rs 1,421 crore, BRS Rs 1,214 crore, and BJD received Rs 775 crore. Rahul Gandhi termed it as ‘Hafta-Wasooli’ to which BJP countered saying that even if what he said was true, then why did his party also receive funds through electoral bonds? So it has to be said that Amit Shah has diffused this entire issue. And after Shah’s argument, Rahul Gandhi has lost the moral authority to challenge BJP or attack it, at least on this issue.
  • Why were there two sides in the Supreme Court Bar Association regarding the Electoral Bond issue?
    I believe some politics or something happened and a letter who shot to the Supreme Court citing that the SC does not have the power to do so. After the letter, the Bar officials formed another group and said that the letter may have been sent by the official in personal capacity and does not represent the voice of SC Bar Association. And the government played it smartly. Harish Salve stood up and said that the government honours the SC’s orders dated February 15 and March 11 to provide details from SBI to Election Commission and that the government will do so. During the hearing, CJI made a remark that this ruse was a media gimmick which he did not pay attention to. So this was only for a temporary period.
  • ED’s action is under consideration on some of the companies which gave funds to BJP. Did that put any negative image in people’s minds regarding Modi government?
    In initial couple of days, the BJP leaders did come on back-foot owing to the details released and the general perception that Opposition tried to make against BJP in public’s mind. But as soon as Amit Shah held the reins and the fact that all parties had a good share in the bond funds, then the situation changed completely. So, now everything is fine especially since the fund has been taken through cheques. Now, BJP leaders are telling other party leaders that they can only be questioned once they (Opposition leaders) have clean hands and image.
  • What is this development around Santiago Martin who returned from Myanmar as a labourer but became lottery King?
    See, it is about destiny and luck. He must have returned and got in touch with someone and started working in the lottery field. He established himself in that field and ventured into education, health and other fields. A few cases were also filed. However, when the details of donors were revealed it was learnt that this Lottery King gave a total fund of Rs 1,368 crore of which Rs 542 crore were received by TMC, Rs 503 crore to DMK and BJP received only Rs 100 crore, but the perception was created that BJP took Rs 1,368 crore as funds from Lottery King. So when this perception was broken, it was then that the embarrassment caused to BJP ended. As far as Santiago Martin is concerned, he has complete sway over lottery in Sikkim and Nagaland and perhaps has made inroads in Mamata’s state too. If someone is paying over Rs 500 to a state party then there must have been something worthwhile to make that donation. Moreover, when DMK’s fund is getting boosted by five hundred crore that means Chennai lottery must also be with the Lottery King. So Santiago Martin is a rags-toriches story.
  • What is your take on Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s statements in this entire episode?
    She said with absolute clarity that there is no link between ED raids and political funding to ruling party. Furthermore, she also said that while people were pointing at cases, but no case has been dropped or closed against any corporate or company. Neither have the cases been dropped against Megha or Lottery King and it may have been a coincidence. Sure it looks bad if you only look at one angle, but if you see that the person who is giving political donation to BJP is giving to all other parties as well, then that is where the seriousness of the issue dies out.
  • What role did SBI and Election Commission play in this episode?
    They were at the receiving end. They had to comply with the orders. SBI surely had some reservations. Sometimes when you are associated with government you try to not put any harm or befall any difficulty before the government, so perhaps that thought struck the SBI too. The SBI provided the information asked of it. When the Supreme Court asked for additional information, the SBI provided the same. So they complied with SC’s orders and sent the details to Election Commission and the EC put that up on its website for the public to see.

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Daily Astro

13-05-2025

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Libra

Ganesha says today will be a very auspicious and positive day. You will get a chance to clarify your thoughts, which will bring stability to your personal and professional relationships. Your communication skills will increase, and this will open the doors of new possibilities for you. Your creativity and aesthetic sense will be especially strong today. If you are associated with any art or design, your work will be appreciated. This is the right time to express your feelings. If you are confused about a decision, trust your intuition; it will show you the right path. In terms of health, small changes can make your life better. Focus on regular exercise and a balanced diet. In love and relationships, a new understanding will develop, which will strengthen the mutual bond even more. Overall, this day is a sign of positive changes and new beginnings for you. Stay focused on your goals and recognize your inner strengths.

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Virgo

Ganesha says today is a suitable day to highlight your cognitive abilities and business skills. Today, you will be full of clarity and precision in your actions, which will increase your value among your colleagues and superiors. There is a possibility of bringing some changes to your routine, which will bring positive results for you. This is a good time to improve relations with family members. Try to resolve any old disputes, and keep communication open. In terms of health, meditation and yoga will bring mental peace. Also, take some time out of your routine for exercise. From a financial point of view, this is the right time to make a good plan for the right investment. Take a good look at the options available to you and make a wise decision. Overall, today will prove to be a day of new possibilities and positive changes for you. Be full of confidence and stay focused on your goals.

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Leo

Ganesha says today will be a day full of energy and inspiration. Your confidence will increase and your thoughts will come out with clarity. On this day, you will be able to see some new possibilities in your career, which will bring you hard work. Mutual understanding and harmony will increase your relationship, which will create a happy atmosphere among the family. This is a great time to express your thoughts clearly, so do not hesitate to communicate with your partner or friends. It is important to be health conscious, a little exercise and meditation will maintain your mental and physical health. Overall, this day will bring activity and positivity for you, so make the most of all the opportunities!

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Cancer

Ganesha says it will be a day of information and communication for you. Your mind will be full of ideas and you will be able to express your ideas well. There is a possibility of some new opportunities in professional life, which can prove beneficial for you. It is a good time to strengthen relationships with your colleagues, so work together at the workplace. Your emotional state will also be strong. Time spent with family will give you satisfaction. If you have any old problem going on, then the right time is coming to solve it. However, you need to keep your emotions under control, so that you do not get agitated over small things. In terms of health, try to practice yoga and meditation. It will empower you both mentally and physically. Take informed decisions in financial matters; do not rush into any investments. In summary, this day will be all about communication and cooperation, which will lead to positive changes for you.

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Gemini

Ganesha says there will be a new energy and freshness in your thoughts, which will make your personality even more attractive. Social contacts are likely to increase, which will expand your network. You will be inspired to spend blissful time with your friends and family. Some positive changes can also be seen in the business sector. The results of your hard work will gradually start coming, and this will motivate you to move forward. Keep in mind that while sharing your ideology, work with empathy, this will strengthen your relationship with colleagues. It is important to be health conscious. A little attention and relaxation will give you mental freshness. Practicing yoga or meditation will be beneficial for you. This day will be full of positivity and new possibilities for you. Express your mind openly and do not hesitate to adopt new ideas.

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Taurus

Ganesha says it will prove to be a positive day for you, Taurus. You will feel energetic and full of confidence. The time has come to reap the fruits of your hard work and efforts. The workload may stress you for a while, but you will face all the challenges recognizing your strengths. Sweetness will also remain in your relationships. Spending time with your family and friends will be a source of joy for you. Conversation with someone special can give you a new vision and promote mutual understanding. A special occasion may be organized among friends or family, which will bring happiness and harmony to you. Moments spent with loved ones will give you mental peace. It is important to be health conscious. A little exercise or yoga will give peace to your mind and energy to your body. Your day will be full of happiness and positivity, just keep your thoughts and emotions balanced.

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Aries

Ganesha says it will be an important day for you, Aries. Your energy and confidence are ready to take you to new heights. Today you will be able to express your thoughts with clarity, which will increase your communication skills. New opportunities may arise in the working areas, which you have to be ready to take advantage of. In social life, you can make new meetings, which will prove beneficial for you in the future. This day will be good for solving family issues, and you will be able to establish better relations with your close ones. In the field of health, take care of your routine and resort to yoga or meditation to relieve mental stress. Controlling your expenses will be a smart move, as any sudden financial need may arise. Overall, this day is for you to stay positive, just use your insight and energy properly.

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Pisces

Ganesha says it is going to be a positive day for you. Your sensitivity and intuition will flourish today, allowing you to establish better connections between yourself and others. It is time to connect with someone or refresh old memories. Try to communicate with people close to you, as it will strengthen your relationships. In the field of work, your creativity will be cyclical today. If you are working on a project, your ideas will be new and full of innovation. Do not be afraid to share your ideas, it will give you positive feedback from your colleagues. In terms of financial condition, avoid any big investments. Small expenses will prove to be justified but think well before making any big decisions for the long term. In terms of health, focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise. For mental health, practicing meditation or yoga will help keep you stress-free.

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Aquarius

Ganesha says new opportunities are likely to open up for you. You will be in a position to take your creative abilities to new heights. This is the time to share your ideas and make new plans. Your friends and family will support your ideas, so it will be beneficial to take their advice into account. Positive changes are possible in business. This is the right time to work on an important project. You will get an opportunity to use your skills and knowledge properly. But, be careful; in some cases, you will need to control your emotions. In personal life, relationships will deepen. You will try to spend more time with your loved ones. This is a good time for love and companionship. Enjoy emotional moments that will make your relationships stronger. Be health conscious. Dedication to yoga and meditation will give you mental peace. These activities will keep not only your body but also your mind active. Overall, today will be full of possibilities for you. Stay committed to your dreams and work on them.

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Capricorn

Ganesha says your day is full of some new possibilities. You will experience grace and stability in your actions. This is the time to focus on your goals and work with determination to pursue your plans. You are likely to get success in your work, especially if you maintain your hard work and dedication. Positive changes can also be seen in your relationships. You will get a chance to spend time with family and listen to them, which will increase mutual understanding and depth. Focus on communication, as it will make your relationships stronger. However, it is also time to make monthly plans. Take care of your financial matters and try to save. This is the time when you can take concrete steps for your future. Your health condition is likely to remain normal but take some rest. Maintaining a mental balance will be important for you. Stay positive and keep faith in your actions!

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Sagittarius

Ganesha says today will be full of new possibilities and positive energy for you. You will feel a rise in your confidence, which will keep you open to new opportunities. This is the right time to make an important decision. Your spirituality and intuition will be strong, which will enable you to understand and face difficulties. Spending time with friends and family will awaken a sense of happiness and satisfaction in your mind. Relationships with colleagues at work can take a new direction. Cooperation and communication will help solve problems. If you face an obstacle or challenge, remember that you can overcome it. In terms of health, you may need to make a little improvement in your routine. Regular exercise and a balanced diet will give you freshness and energy. Strengthening social relationships and contacting new people will also be beneficial today. This is the time for self-growth and positive change for you, so recognize the energy within you and use it properly.

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Scorpio

Ganesha says today will be full of enthusiasm and energy. You will move towards achieving your goals, and your hard work will pay off. Social life will also be active; you will get a good chance to spend time with friends and family. In terms of health, take a little caution. Focusing on meditation and exercise will help reduce mental stress. This is also a good time to take up a new hobby, which can unleash your creativity. Take wise steps in terms of money. Make informed decisions while investing. For potential financial gains, take a look at past projects again. Your career is showing good signs of progress. Your ideas may be appreciated at the workplace, which will increase your confidence. Still, some issues may require restraint. Overall, today will prove to be positive and auspicious for you. Spend it with pride with your loved ones.

image

Libra

Ganesha says today will be a very auspicious and positive day. You will get a chance to clarify your thoughts, which will bring stability to your personal and professional relationships. Your communication skills will increase, and this will open the doors of new possibilities for you. Your creativity and aesthetic sense will be especially strong today. If you are associated with any art or design, your work will be appreciated. This is the right time to express your feelings. If you are confused about a decision, trust your intuition; it will show you the right path. In terms of health, small changes can make your life better. Focus on regular exercise and a balanced diet. In love and relationships, a new understanding will develop, which will strengthen the mutual bond even more. Overall, this day is a sign of positive changes and new beginnings for you. Stay focused on your goals and recognize your inner strengths.

image

Virgo

Ganesha says today is a suitable day to highlight your cognitive abilities and business skills. Today, you will be full of clarity and precision in your actions, which will increase your value among your colleagues and superiors. There is a possibility of bringing some changes to your routine, which will bring positive results for you. This is a good time to improve relations with family members. Try to resolve any old disputes, and keep communication open. In terms of health, meditation and yoga will bring mental peace. Also, take some time out of your routine for exercise. From a financial point of view, this is the right time to make a good plan for the right investment. Take a good look at the options available to you and make a wise decision. Overall, today will prove to be a day of new possibilities and positive changes for you. Be full of confidence and stay focused on your goals.

image

Leo

Ganesha says today will be a day full of energy and inspiration. Your confidence will increase and your thoughts will come out with clarity. On this day, you will be able to see some new possibilities in your career, which will bring you hard work. Mutual understanding and harmony will increase your relationship, which will create a happy atmosphere among the family. This is a great time to express your thoughts clearly, so do not hesitate to communicate with your partner or friends. It is important to be health conscious, a little exercise and meditation will maintain your mental and physical health. Overall, this day will bring activity and positivity for you, so make the most of all the opportunities!

image

Cancer

Ganesha says it will be a day of information and communication for you. Your mind will be full of ideas and you will be able to express your ideas well. There is a possibility of some new opportunities in professional life, which can prove beneficial for you. It is a good time to strengthen relationships with your colleagues, so work together at the workplace. Your emotional state will also be strong. Time spent with family will give you satisfaction. If you have any old problem going on, then the right time is coming to solve it. However, you need to keep your emotions under control, so that you do not get agitated over small things. In terms of health, try to practice yoga and meditation. It will empower you both mentally and physically. Take informed decisions in financial matters; do not rush into any investments. In summary, this day will be all about communication and cooperation, which will lead to positive changes for you.

image

Gemini

Ganesha says there will be a new energy and freshness in your thoughts, which will make your personality even more attractive. Social contacts are likely to increase, which will expand your network. You will be inspired to spend blissful time with your friends and family. Some positive changes can also be seen in the business sector. The results of your hard work will gradually start coming, and this will motivate you to move forward. Keep in mind that while sharing your ideology, work with empathy, this will strengthen your relationship with colleagues. It is important to be health conscious. A little attention and relaxation will give you mental freshness. Practicing yoga or meditation will be beneficial for you. This day will be full of positivity and new possibilities for you. Express your mind openly and do not hesitate to adopt new ideas.

image

Taurus

Ganesha says it will prove to be a positive day for you, Taurus. You will feel energetic and full of confidence. The time has come to reap the fruits of your hard work and efforts. The workload may stress you for a while, but you will face all the challenges recognizing your strengths. Sweetness will also remain in your relationships. Spending time with your family and friends will be a source of joy for you. Conversation with someone special can give you a new vision and promote mutual understanding. A special occasion may be organized among friends or family, which will bring happiness and harmony to you. Moments spent with loved ones will give you mental peace. It is important to be health conscious. A little exercise or yoga will give peace to your mind and energy to your body. Your day will be full of happiness and positivity, just keep your thoughts and emotions balanced.

image

Aries

Ganesha says it will be an important day for you, Aries. Your energy and confidence are ready to take you to new heights. Today you will be able to express your thoughts with clarity, which will increase your communication skills. New opportunities may arise in the working areas, which you have to be ready to take advantage of. In social life, you can make new meetings, which will prove beneficial for you in the future. This day will be good for solving family issues, and you will be able to establish better relations with your close ones. In the field of health, take care of your routine and resort to yoga or meditation to relieve mental stress. Controlling your expenses will be a smart move, as any sudden financial need may arise. Overall, this day is for you to stay positive, just use your insight and energy properly.

image

Pisces

Ganesha says it is going to be a positive day for you. Your sensitivity and intuition will flourish today, allowing you to establish better connections between yourself and others. It is time to connect with someone or refresh old memories. Try to communicate with people close to you, as it will strengthen your relationships. In the field of work, your creativity will be cyclical today. If you are working on a project, your ideas will be new and full of innovation. Do not be afraid to share your ideas, it will give you positive feedback from your colleagues. In terms of financial condition, avoid any big investments. Small expenses will prove to be justified but think well before making any big decisions for the long term. In terms of health, focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise. For mental health, practicing meditation or yoga will help keep you stress-free.

image

Aquarius

Ganesha says new opportunities are likely to open up for you. You will be in a position to take your creative abilities to new heights. This is the time to share your ideas and make new plans. Your friends and family will support your ideas, so it will be beneficial to take their advice into account. Positive changes are possible in business. This is the right time to work on an important project. You will get an opportunity to use your skills and knowledge properly. But, be careful; in some cases, you will need to control your emotions. In personal life, relationships will deepen. You will try to spend more time with your loved ones. This is a good time for love and companionship. Enjoy emotional moments that will make your relationships stronger. Be health conscious. Dedication to yoga and meditation will give you mental peace. These activities will keep not only your body but also your mind active. Overall, today will be full of possibilities for you. Stay committed to your dreams and work on them.

image

Capricorn

Ganesha says your day is full of some new possibilities. You will experience grace and stability in your actions. This is the time to focus on your goals and work with determination to pursue your plans. You are likely to get success in your work, especially if you maintain your hard work and dedication. Positive changes can also be seen in your relationships. You will get a chance to spend time with family and listen to them, which will increase mutual understanding and depth. Focus on communication, as it will make your relationships stronger. However, it is also time to make monthly plans. Take care of your financial matters and try to save. This is the time when you can take concrete steps for your future. Your health condition is likely to remain normal but take some rest. Maintaining a mental balance will be important for you. Stay positive and keep faith in your actions!

image

Sagittarius

Ganesha says today will be full of new possibilities and positive energy for you. You will feel a rise in your confidence, which will keep you open to new opportunities. This is the right time to make an important decision. Your spirituality and intuition will be strong, which will enable you to understand and face difficulties. Spending time with friends and family will awaken a sense of happiness and satisfaction in your mind. Relationships with colleagues at work can take a new direction. Cooperation and communication will help solve problems. If you face an obstacle or challenge, remember that you can overcome it. In terms of health, you may need to make a little improvement in your routine. Regular exercise and a balanced diet will give you freshness and energy. Strengthening social relationships and contacting new people will also be beneficial today. This is the time for self-growth and positive change for you, so recognize the energy within you and use it properly.

image

Scorpio

Ganesha says today will be full of enthusiasm and energy. You will move towards achieving your goals, and your hard work will pay off. Social life will also be active; you will get a good chance to spend time with friends and family. In terms of health, take a little caution. Focusing on meditation and exercise will help reduce mental stress. This is also a good time to take up a new hobby, which can unleash your creativity. Take wise steps in terms of money. Make informed decisions while investing. For potential financial gains, take a look at past projects again. Your career is showing good signs of progress. Your ideas may be appreciated at the workplace, which will increase your confidence. Still, some issues may require restraint. Overall, today will prove to be positive and auspicious for you. Spend it with pride with your loved ones.