Maoists...

So-called fake news spread on social media and messaging platforms has been blamed for triggering mob violence in parts of the country that led to the lynching of suspected cattle thieves and smugglers and child lifters, prompting the government to intervene.

The home minister also used the occasion to highlight the achievements of the Modi government, noting that the economy had posted 8.2% growth in the first quarter of the current fiscal year -- the fastest pace in two years -- despite an adverse global market scenario, a falling rupee and rising fuel prices.

Singh said the rupee’s depreciation against the dollar had been a fallout of the sharp drop in the value of the Turkish lira. “But we will turn this situation also to our advantage and find a way out very soon by encouraging exports,” said Singh and added: “...unlike during the Congress regime, under a similar situation, investors are not wary of investing in the country.”

“Our government is moving forward by taking India’s transformation and resolve from a developing to a developed country,” he said.

ON DIFFERENCES WITH ALLIES

“It is normal to have small differences in a family. I believe Shiv Sena will stay with us.”

ON PROPOSAL FOR SIMULTANEOUS POLLS

“It is possible to have simultaneous Lok Sabha and assembly polls; nothing can be better than this.”

ON SC/ST ACT:

The Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act will not be used to harass anyone, Singh said..

ON CASTE CENSUS:

A caste census is essential to ensure different caste groups receive the benefits of reservation in proportion to their population, Singh said.

ON FUEL PRICE RISE:

A solution will be found to rising fuel prices, Singh said.