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Union Home Minister and BJP President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-reviews-functioning-of-crpf-calls-for-action-against-maoists-262479">Amit Shah</a> is scheduled to speak in the Rajya Sabha later today, sources said on Wednesday. 
 
Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/this-house-has-seen-many-historic-moments-says-modi-in-rajya-sabha-address-262903">Narendra Modi</a> had on Monday addressed the Upper House of Parliament.

"The Rajya Sabha is a symbol of India's development journey. Two things about the Rajya Sabha stand out, It's permanent nature. It is also a representative of India's diversity. This House gives importance to India's federal structure," he had stated.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/winter-session-of-parliament-government-set-to-push-citizenship-amendment-bill-263005">winter session of the Parliament</a>, which started from Monday earlier this week, will go on till December 13. It marks the 250th session of the Rajya Sabha.

Union Home Minister and BJP President Amit Shah is scheduled to speak in the Rajya Sabha later today, sources said on Wednesday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Monday addressed the Upper House of Parliament.

Union Home Minister and BJP President Amit Shah is scheduled to speak in the Rajya Sabha later today, sources said on Wednesday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Monday addressed the Upper House of Parliament. "The Rajya Sabha is a symbol of India's development journey. Two things about the Rajya Sabha stand out, It's permanent nature. It is also a representative of India's diversity. This House gives importance to India's federal structure," he had stated. The winter session of the Parliament, which started from Monday earlier this week, will go on till December 13. It marks the 250th session of the Rajya Sabha.

Amit Shah to speak in Rajya Sabha today

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nso-snoop-row-how-pegasus-broke-into-whatsapp-260055">Whatsapp-</a>Pegasus&nbsp;snooping scandal has created uproar in the Indian Parliament, with opposition lawmakers cornering the central government on what has essentially become one of the biggest cyber-attacks on Indian soil.&nbsp;

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) legislator&nbsp;and former Telecom Minister Dayanidhi Maran asked the government whether it had used the Israeli spyware Pegasus to snoop on multiple activists, politicians, and journalists.

In the official Government of India response to the question of Whatsapp tapping, the government responded by asserting Section 69 of the Information Technology Act. The section empowers the Central Government or a state government to intercept, monitor or decrypt any information generated, transmitted, received or stored in any computer resource in the interest of the sovereignty or integrity of India, the security of the state, friendly relations with foreign states or public order.

The response additionally mentions that only ten security agencies in India are empowered to carry out the monitoring and mass surveillance to protect the country's interests.

These organisations are Intelligence Bureau, the National Investigation Agency, the Central Bureau of Investigation, RAW - the Research and Analysis Wing, Narcotics Control Bureau, Enforcement Directorate, Central Board of Direct Taxes, and Directorate of Revenue Intelligence.

According to the government's response, any interception or monitoring or decryption of any information from any computer resource can be done only by these authorised agencies.

Most of these are agencies at the top of the pecking order and carry out functions of national importance.

And the Ministry also says that any interception of information from citizens can be done only as per the established laws and safeguards which have been enshrined in the Indian telegraph rules and the information technology laws.

Today, a 31-member parliamentary panel led by opposition legislator Shashi Tharoor, a member of the Indian National Congress&nbsp;will examine the snooping row, and seek details from top officials on what measures the government is taking to ensure that such cyber-attacks are never repeated.

On the question of whether the Indian government used the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/plea-filed-in-sc-seeking-nia-investigation-against-whatsapp-others-for-snooping-259948">Pegasus software to snoop on people</a>, the authorities chose not to respond. Out of the seven queries submitted to the government, six were answered. 
&nbsp;

The Whatsapp-Pegasus snooping scandal has created uproar in the Indian Parliament, with opposition lawmakers cornering the central government on what has essentially become one of the biggest cyber-attacks on Indian soil.

The Whatsapp-Pegasus snooping scandal has created uproar in the Indian Parliament, with opposition lawmakers cornering the central government on what has essentially become one of the biggest cyber-attacks on Indian soil. Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) legislator and former Telecom Minister Dayanidhi Maran asked the government whether it had used the Israeli spyware Pegasus to snoop on multiple activists, politicians, and journalists. In the official Government of India response to the question of Whatsapp tapping, the government responded by asserting Section 69 of the Information Technology Act. The section empowers the Central Government or a state government to intercept, monitor or decrypt any information generated, transmitted, received or stored in any computer resource in the interest of the sovereignty or integrity of India, the security of the state, friendly relations with foreign states or public order. The response additionally mentions that only ten security agencies in India are empowered to carry out the monitoring and mass surveillance to protect the country's interests. These organisations are Intelligence Bureau, the National Investigation Agency, the Central Bureau of Investigation, RAW - the Research and Analysis Wing, Narcotics Control Bureau, Enforcement Directorate, Central Board of Direct Taxes, and Directorate of Revenue Intelligence. According to the government's response, any interception or monitoring or decryption of any information from any computer resource can be done only by these authorised agencies. Most of these are agencies at the top of the pecking order and carry out functions of national importance. And the Ministry also says that any interception of information from citizens can be done only as per the established laws and safeguards which have been enshrined in the Indian telegraph rules and the information technology laws. Today, a 31-member parliamentary panel led by opposition legislator Shashi Tharoor, a member of the Indian National Congress will examine the snooping row, and seek details from top officials on what measures the government is taking to ensure that such cyber-attacks are never repeated. On the question of whether the Indian government used the Pegasus software to snoop on people, the authorities chose not to respond. Out of the seven queries submitted to the government, six were answered.

Ten agencies allowed to intercept information: Government in Lok Sabha on Pegasus-WhatsApp row

The Congress party on Wednesday gave a Suspension of Business Notice in Rajya Sabha under rule 267, over "withdrawal of Special Protection Group (SPG) cover to certain persons". 
 
The SPG security cover given to Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi, her son Rahul Gandhi and daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-to-downgrade-gandhi-familys-security-cover-from-spg-rank-to-z-260793">was withdrawn last week</a> by the central government after a security review. Their security detail was replaced with 'Z plus' security cover of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). 
 
Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, on Tuesday gave an adjournment motion notice in the House on the Home Ministry's move to remove the special protection from the Gandhi family. 
 
Chowdhury and DMK leader TR Baalu later sought to raise the issue during zero-Hour but Speaker Om Birla did not let them speak on the issue saying the issue was already raised by them. 
 
Yesterday, Congress members protested in Lok Sabha and came near the Speaker's podium during question hour.

The Congress party on Wednesday gave a Suspension of Business Notice in Rajya Sabha under rule 267, over "withdrawal of Special Protection Group (SPG) cover to certain persons".

The Congress party on Wednesday gave a Suspension of Business Notice in Rajya Sabha under rule 267, over "withdrawal of Special Protection Group (SPG) cover to certain persons". The SPG security cover given to Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi, her son Rahul Gandhi and daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was withdrawn last week by the central government after a security review. Their security detail was replaced with 'Z plus' security cover of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, on Tuesday gave an adjournment motion notice in the House on the Home Ministry's move to remove the special protection from the Gandhi family. Chowdhury and DMK leader TR Baalu later sought to raise the issue during zero-Hour but Speaker Om Birla did not let them speak on the issue saying the issue was already raised by them. Yesterday, Congress members protested in Lok Sabha and came near the Speaker's podium during question hour.

Congress gives Suspension of Business notice over downgrade in security cover

A meeting between the top leaders of NCP and Congress will be held on Wednesday to discuss the ongoing political crisis in Maharashtra. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meeting-of-congress-ncp-leaders-tomorrow-in-delhi-263226">The meeting</a> will take place at the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sharad-pawar-will-discuss-maharashtra-farmers-issues-with-pm-modi-today-263275">Sharad Pawar's</a> residence at Janpath in the national capital at 5 pm. 
 
Speaking to ANI, NCP chief spokesperson Nawab Malik said, "Today, there is a meeting of the Congress and NCP leaders at 6 Janpath in Sharad Pawar's residence." 
In that meeting, leaders of both the parties from Maharashtra and Delhi will discuss the current political situation in Maharashtra. 
 
"There is a presidential rule in Maharashtra. People and farmers are suffering. The administration has&nbsp;collapsed. There should be an alternative government. There is a meeting between the two parties to find a solution," he said. 
 
Speaking about the plan of NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena to form government in Maharashtra, Malik said, "When Sena and BJP have taken a decision not to form the government, three parties have to come together to form the government. We have to take everyone into confidence before making a decision. A process is underway. Without Sena, there cannot be an alternative government." 
 
Maharashtra came under President's Rule after all the parties failed to form a government in the state.

BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths.

Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP only to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by Governor BS Koshyari.

The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state on Tuesday.

The Shiv Sena is now in parley&nbsp;with the Congress and NCP to form a government in the state.

The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

A meeting between the top leaders of NCP and Congress will be held on Wednesday to discuss the ongoing political crisis in Maharashtra. The meeting will take place at the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar's residence at Janpath in the national capital at 5 pm.

A meeting between the top leaders of NCP and Congress will be held on Wednesday to discuss the ongoing political crisis in Maharashtra. The meeting will take place at the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar's residence at Janpath in the national capital at 5 pm. Speaking to ANI, NCP chief spokesperson Nawab Malik said, "Today, there is a meeting of the Congress and NCP leaders at 6 Janpath in Sharad Pawar's residence." In that meeting, leaders of both the parties from Maharashtra and Delhi will discuss the current political situation in Maharashtra. "There is a presidential rule in Maharashtra. People and farmers are suffering. The administration has collapsed. There should be an alternative government. There is a meeting between the two parties to find a solution," he said. Speaking about the plan of NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena to form government in Maharashtra, Malik said, "When Sena and BJP have taken a decision not to form the government, three parties have to come together to form the government. We have to take everyone into confidence before making a decision. A process is underway. Without Sena, there cannot be an alternative government." Maharashtra came under President's Rule after all the parties failed to form a government in the state. BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP only to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by Governor BS Koshyari. The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state on Tuesday. The Shiv Sena is now in parley with the Congress and NCP to form a government in the state. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Maharashtra political crisis: Top leaders of NCP and Congress to meet in New Delhi today

The Supreme Court granted another opportunity to the Indian Army to take a final decision on granting Permanent Commission (PC) to eight women Army officers, against the bar on their absorption in the armed forces, the lawyer appearing for women Army officers told ANI. 
 
"One another opportunity has been given to the Indian Army to consider granting Permanent Commission to eight women officers, who had approached the Apex court in 2010," the lawyer, Aishwarya Bhatti, told ANI on Tuesday. 
 
The PC would be granted for consideration by the Army to those women Army officers, who had approached the apex court, seeking a direction in this regard, according to Bhatti. 
 
After being apprised by the Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Sanjay Jain, that the issue is being already considered for giving the women Army officers the PC, the SC bench, headed by Justice Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud, said, "We can pass an order but we are giving you an opportunity to take credit for it." 
 
ASG Jain today told the apex court that the central government had finally decided and agreed to grant PC, but the decision left out the women who had first approached the court in this regard. 
 
In an affidavit filed by the Union of India, it had stated that the three wings of the armed forces,&nbsp;Army, Navy and Air force,&nbsp;and the Ministry of Defence (MOD) are actively considering the issue of parity between male and female officers in securing the PC in the Armed forces, with regard to the various pending and concluded litigations before various Courts.

The Supreme Court granted another opportunity to the Indian Army to take a final decision on granting Permanent Commission (PC) to eight women Army officers, against the bar on their absorption in the armed forces, the lawyer appearing for women Army officers told ANI.

The Supreme Court granted another opportunity to the Indian Army to take a final decision on granting Permanent Commission (PC) to eight women Army officers, against the bar on their absorption in the armed forces, the lawyer appearing for women Army officers told ANI. "One another opportunity has been given to the Indian Army to consider granting Permanent Commission to eight women officers, who had approached the Apex court in 2010," the lawyer, Aishwarya Bhatti, told ANI on Tuesday. The PC would be granted for consideration by the Army to those women Army officers, who had approached the apex court, seeking a direction in this regard, according to Bhatti. After being apprised by the Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Sanjay Jain, that the issue is being already considered for giving the women Army officers the PC, the SC bench, headed by Justice Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud, said, "We can pass an order but we are giving you an opportunity to take credit for it." ASG Jain today told the apex court that the central government had finally decided and agreed to grant PC, but the decision left out the women who had first approached the court in this regard. In an affidavit filed by the Union of India, it had stated that the three wings of the armed forces, Army, Navy and Air force, and the Ministry of Defence (MOD) are actively considering the issue of parity between male and female officers in securing the PC in the Armed forces, with regard to the various pending and concluded litigations before various Courts.

Supreme Court asks Army to decide on granting special commission to female officers

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-adjourned-till-2pm-after-uproar-over-jnu-fee-hike-issue-263097">Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)</a> visually impaired students' forum has called for a demonstration on Wednesday in front of Delhi Police Headquarters against alleged lathi charge by police on the students of the University and to demand justice for persons with disabilities. 
 
The demonstration is scheduled in the front of the Police Headquarter on Jaisingh Road near the Parliament. 
 
"The JNU Visually Challenged Students' Forum calls for a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jnu-administration-to-take-stringent-action-against-students-over-criminal-vandalism-262743">demonstration</a> against the brutal lathi charge of Delhi Police and demand for justice for persons with disabilities," Shaikh Mohammad Kaish, JNU Visually Challenged Students' Forum, said in a statement. 
 
On November 18, Delhi Police had denied allegations of lathi-charge levelled by some students during the protest organised to demand complete fee rollback. 
 
However, the Forum said that the lathi charge by police was a clear cut violation of the United Nation's Convention on Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2006 and Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2016 act. 
 
The forum demanded delegation-level talks with the Chief Commissioner of Delhi Police and full protection of persons with disabilities anywhere in the national capital with an immediate effect.

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) visually impaired students' forum has called for a demonstration on Wednesday in front of Delhi Police Headquarters against alleged lathi charge by police on the students of the University and to demand justice for persons with disabilities.

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) visually impaired students' forum has called for a demonstration on Wednesday in front of Delhi Police Headquarters against alleged lathi charge by police on the students of the University and to demand justice for persons with disabilities. The demonstration is scheduled in the front of the Police Headquarter on Jaisingh Road near the Parliament. "The JNU Visually Challenged Students' Forum calls for a demonstration against the brutal lathi charge of Delhi Police and demand for justice for persons with disabilities," Shaikh Mohammad Kaish, JNU Visually Challenged Students' Forum, said in a statement. On November 18, Delhi Police had denied allegations of lathi-charge levelled by some students during the protest organised to demand complete fee rollback. However, the Forum said that the lathi charge by police was a clear cut violation of the United Nation's Convention on Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2006 and Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2016 act. The forum demanded delegation-level talks with the Chief Commissioner of Delhi Police and full protection of persons with disabilities anywhere in the national capital with an immediate effect.

JNU: Visually impaired students' forum calls for protest against police brutality

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-quality-improves-slightly-in-delhi-safar-says-relief-temporary-263072">air quality</a> is likely to be in the 'bad'&nbsp;to 'very bad'&nbsp;category on Wednesday and may worsen even further in the coming two days in the Delhi and NCR region, according to Skymet Weather. 
 
According to weather experts from Skymet, the reason behind this is a western disturbance on the western side of the Himalayas which is going to impact the flow of air in Delhi-NCR regions. 
 
The reduced flow of air is likely to lead to an increase in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-need-for-odd-even-scheme-as-delhi-skies-have-cleared-up-arvind-kejriwal-262895">accumulation of pollutants</a> in the region and on November 21 and 22 when the situation could worsen even further. 
 
Apart from Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, Faridabad, and Ghaziabad too are going to be impacted by the worsening air quality. 
 
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi had improved since Saturday when it was marked at 357.

The air quality is likely to be in the 'bad' to 'very bad' category on Wednesday and may worsen even further in the coming two days in the Delhi and NCR region, according to Skymet Weather.

The air quality is likely to be in the 'bad' to 'very bad' category on Wednesday and may worsen even further in the coming two days in the Delhi and NCR region, according to Skymet Weather. According to weather experts from Skymet, the reason behind this is a western disturbance on the western side of the Himalayas which is going to impact the flow of air in Delhi-NCR regions. The reduced flow of air is likely to lead to an increase in the accumulation of pollutants in the region and on November 21 and 22 when the situation could worsen even further. Apart from Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, Faridabad, and Ghaziabad too are going to be impacted by the worsening air quality. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi had improved since Saturday when it was marked at 357.

Delhi: Air quality to be bad today, may worsen in upcoming days

Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh are likely to receive rainfall, according to the Indian Meteorological Department.

Owing to a western disturbance after a cyclonic circulation over Iran, these regions will receive rain.

While Jammu and Kashmir is expected to receive rains on Thursday and Friday, Himachal Pradesh will experience a refresher on Friday.

Besides the two north Indian states, rainfall is also likely over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal today as well as tomorrow.

The thunderstorm will be accompanied by lightning at places in the South Peninsula over the next two days.&nbsp;

In the capital city, Delhi, the sky will remain clear with minimum and maximum temperatures of 12 degrees and 27 degrees Celsius respectively.

Mumbai, the financial capital of India will experience clear skies with a temperature between 21 degrees and 35 degrees, with relative humidity in the region at 60 per cent.

(With inputs from ANI)

Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh are likely to receive rainfall, according to the Indian Meteorological Department. Owing to a western disturbance after a cyclonic circulation over Iran, these regions will receive rain.

Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh are likely to receive rainfall, according to the Indian Meteorological Department. Owing to a western disturbance after a cyclonic circulation over Iran, these regions will receive rain. While Jammu and Kashmir is expected to receive rains on Thursday and Friday, Himachal Pradesh will experience a refresher on Friday. Besides the two north Indian states, rainfall is also likely over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal today as well as tomorrow. The thunderstorm will be accompanied by lightning at places in the South Peninsula over the next two days. In the capital city, Delhi, the sky will remain clear with minimum and maximum temperatures of 12 degrees and 27 degrees Celsius respectively. Mumbai, the financial capital of India will experience clear skies with a temperature between 21 degrees and 35 degrees, with relative humidity in the region at 60 per cent. (With inputs from ANI)

Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh to receive rainfall as cyclone circulation gains stronghold over Iran

The Congress and NCP will able to give a "stable" government to Maharashtra, senior Congress leader said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Addressing a press conference, former CM Prithviraj Chavan said that both <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-political-crisis-top-leaders-of-ncp-and-congress-to-meet-in-new-delhi-today-263293">Congress and NCP </a>had long and "positive" discussions today, adding that they will soon form a stable government in Maharashtra.

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Prithviraj Chavan, Congress on Maharashtra govt formation: Congress-NCP has had long and positive discussions today. Discussions will continue; I am sure we will be able to give a stable govt to Maharashtra very soon. <a href="https://t.co/148KbFDhs0">pic.twitter.com/148KbFDhs0</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1197168535824240640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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It should be noted that Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP have to come together in order to bring enough numbers to form government in the state. Maharashtra is currently under <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/maharashtra-placed-under-presidents-rule-after-parties-fail-to-claim-power-261610">President's rule </a>as both BJP and Shiv Sena were not able to form government in the deadline allotted to them.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, senior Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut said that the whole of Maharashtra desires that Uddhav Thackeray becomes the CM.&nbsp;

"When three parties form a government, the process becomes long. This process has started today. In coming two-five days, a government will be formed in Maharashtra," Raut said.&nbsp;

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Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: Shiv Sena ka mukhyamantri banna chahiye yeh Maharashtra ki janta ki ichha hai. Yeh rajya ki bhavna hai ki Uddhav Thackeray Ji netritv karen. <a href="https://t.co/LiYgmedGft">https://t.co/LiYgmedGft</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1197178488077217792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Senior Congress leaders Ahmed Patel, Mallikarjun Kharge and KC Venugopal also briefed the party's interim chief Sonia Gandhi regarding the meeting with NCP.

Earlier on Wednesday, NCP chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sharad-pawar-meets-pm-narendra-modi-to-discuss-farmer-crisis-in-maharashtra-263410">Sharad Pawar met PM Narendra Modi</a>, leading to reports of new political arithmetic in Maharashtra. PM Modi also praised NCP on Tuesday during his address in the Rajya Sabha (Upper House).&nbsp;

However, NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik late on Wednesday&nbsp;said that both Congress and NCP have decided to form an "alternative" government in Maharashtra. He also added that this "alternative" will not be possible without Shiv Sena, NCP, Congress joining hands.&nbsp;

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Nawab Malik: Congress-NCP together decided that we must give an alternate govt in Maharashtra. It is not possible without NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena coming together. We are trying our best to resolve all issues. We will provide alternate govt as soon as possible. <a href="https://t.co/51osLVVtDA">https://t.co/51osLVVtDA</a> <a href="https://t.co/TXG0npr5nM">pic.twitter.com/TXG0npr5nM</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1197171067220983808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Last week, all three parties drafted a common minimum programme (CMP) to form government in the state. Senior leaders of NCP and Congress are continuing discussions over finalising the CMP.&nbsp;

Earlier, traditional allies BJP and Shiv Sena had formed an alliance for the Assembly elections in Maharashtra. However, after the results were declared on October 24, both parties had a fallout over the power-sharing agreement. BJP denies Shiv Sena's claims of 50:50 agreement where both parties will have its CM for 2.5 years.

BJP won the maximum number of seats (105) in recently held elections in the state. Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress claimed 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively. &nbsp;A majority of 145 seats are required in order to form government in Maharastra.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Congress and NCP will able to give a "stable" government to Maharashtra, senior Congress leader said on Wednesday. Addressing a press conference, former CM Prithviraj Chavan said that both Congress and NCP had long and "positive" discussions today, adding that they will soon form a stable government in Maharashtra.

The Congress and NCP will able to give a "stable" government to Maharashtra, senior Congress leader said on Wednesday. Addressing a press conference, former CM Prithviraj Chavan said that both Congress and NCP had long and "positive" discussions today, adding that they will soon form a stable government in Maharashtra. Prithviraj Chavan, Congress on Maharashtra govt formation: Congress-NCP has had long and positive discussions today. Discussions will continue; I am sure we will be able to give a stable govt to Maharashtra very soon. pic.twitter.com/148KbFDhs0 — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2019 × It should be noted that Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP have to come together in order to bring enough numbers to form government in the state. Maharashtra is currently under President's rule as both BJP and Shiv Sena were not able to form government in the deadline allotted to them. On Wednesday, senior Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut said that the whole of Maharashtra desires that Uddhav Thackeray becomes the CM. "When three parties form a government, the process becomes long. This process has started today. In coming two-five days, a government will be formed in Maharashtra," Raut said. Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: Shiv Sena ka mukhyamantri banna chahiye yeh Maharashtra ki janta ki ichha hai. Yeh rajya ki bhavna hai ki Uddhav Thackeray Ji netritv karen. https://t.co/LiYgmedGft — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2019 × Senior Congress leaders Ahmed Patel, Mallikarjun Kharge and KC Venugopal also briefed the party's interim chief Sonia Gandhi regarding the meeting with NCP. Earlier on Wednesday, NCP chief Sharad Pawar met PM Narendra Modi, leading to reports of new political arithmetic in Maharashtra. PM Modi also praised NCP on Tuesday during his address in the Rajya Sabha (Upper House). However, NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik late on Wednesday said that both Congress and NCP have decided to form an "alternative" government in Maharashtra. He also added that this "alternative" will not be possible without Shiv Sena, NCP, Congress joining hands. Nawab Malik: Congress-NCP together decided that we must give an alternate govt in Maharashtra. It is not possible without NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena coming together. We are trying our best to resolve all issues. We will provide alternate govt as soon as possible. https://t.co/51osLVVtDA pic.twitter.com/TXG0npr5nM — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2019 × Last week, all three parties drafted a common minimum programme (CMP) to form government in the state. Senior leaders of NCP and Congress are continuing discussions over finalising the CMP. Earlier, traditional allies BJP and Shiv Sena had formed an alliance for the Assembly elections in Maharashtra. However, after the results were declared on October 24, both parties had a fallout over the power-sharing agreement. BJP denies Shiv Sena's claims of 50:50 agreement where both parties will have its CM for 2.5 years. BJP won the maximum number of seats (105) in recently held elections in the state. Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress claimed 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively. A majority of 145 seats are required in order to form government in Maharastra.

Maharashtra power struggle: Congress, NCP say discussions 'positive', will give 'stable' govt soon

Sharad Pawar, the chief of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi today in parliament to discuss the issue of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sharad-pawar-arrives-in-delhi-to-meet-sonia-gandhi-on-maharashtra-government-formation-262859">Maharashtra farmers</a>.

The meeting between both the leaders will begin at 12 noon, the news agency ANI reported.

NCP leader Nawab Malik said, "In Maharashtra, farmers have faced huge damage due to unseasonable rains. Pawar will demand relief package for the farmers from the Prime Minister".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-chances-for-mid-term-elections-in-maharashtra-stable-government-will-be-formed-sharad-pawar-262490">Farmers in the state</a> have suffered heavy losses due to ongoing heavy rain, especially in Nashik and nearby areas.&nbsp;

On November 15, Pawar promised to speak to the central government and the concerned ministers to assist the farmers.&nbsp;

He also took notice of crop losses in the area due to unseasonal rain and directed government officials in the district to conduct surveys of the destroyed crops.

(With inputs from ANI)

Sharad Pawar, the chief of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi today in parliament to discuss the issue of Maharashtra farmers.

Sharad Pawar, the chief of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi today in parliament to discuss the issue of Maharashtra farmers. The meeting between both the leaders will begin at 12 noon, the news agency ANI reported. NCP leader Nawab Malik said, "In Maharashtra, farmers have faced huge damage due to unseasonable rains. Pawar will demand relief package for the farmers from the Prime Minister". Farmers in the state have suffered heavy losses due to ongoing heavy rain, especially in Nashik and nearby areas. On November 15, Pawar promised to speak to the central government and the concerned ministers to assist the farmers. He also took notice of crop losses in the area due to unseasonal rain and directed government officials in the district to conduct surveys of the destroyed crops. (With inputs from ANI)

Sharad Pawar will discuss Maharashtra farmers' issues with PM Modi today

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/some-of-isros-computers-used-for-web-surfing-were-affected-by-malware-260328">The Indian Space Research Organisation</a> (ISRO) has scheduled the launch of their next satellite for later this month.

According to ISRO's website, India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, PSLV-C47 will launch Cartosat-3 and 13 commercial nanosatellites into Sun Synchronous orbit from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

The launch is tentatively scheduled for 0928 am on November 25, 2019, subject to weather conditions.

PSLV-C47 is the 21st flight of PSLV series by ISRO. It rests in 'XL' configuration, with 6 solid strap-on motors.&nbsp;

Cartosat-3 satellite is a third-generation agile advanced satellite having high-resolution imaging capability. &nbsp;The satellite will be placed in an orbit of 509 km at an inclination of 97.5 degrees, from where it will send crisp images to the earth.

Watch: ISRO fixes the date for Cartosat-3 launch

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As part of a commercial arrangement with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), and Department of Space, PSLV-C47 will also carry 13 commercial nanosatellites from the United States of America.

This will be the 74th launch vehicle mission from SDSC SHAR, Sriharikota.

Later, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaan-2-not-the-end-isro-will-pull-off-soft-landing-in-near-future-k-sivan-259498">ISRO will launch two more surveillance satellites</a> - Risat-2BR1 and Risat-2BR2 in December. The organisation has already launched two surveillance satellites Risat-2B and EMISAT on May 22 and April 1 respectively.

ISRO took a six-month hiatus from launching satellites owing to the moon mission called Chandrayaan-2.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has scheduled the launch of their next satellite for later this month. According to ISRO's website, India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, PSLV-C47 will launch Cartosat-3 and 13 commercial nanosatellites into Sun Synchronous orbit from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has scheduled the launch of their next satellite for later this month. According to ISRO's website, India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, PSLV-C47 will launch Cartosat-3 and 13 commercial nanosatellites into Sun Synchronous orbit from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The launch is tentatively scheduled for 0928 am on November 25, 2019, subject to weather conditions. PSLV-C47 is the 21st flight of PSLV series by ISRO. It rests in 'XL' configuration, with 6 solid strap-on motors. Cartosat-3 satellite is a third-generation agile advanced satellite having high-resolution imaging capability. The satellite will be placed in an orbit of 509 km at an inclination of 97.5 degrees, from where it will send crisp images to the earth. Watch: ISRO fixes the date for Cartosat-3 launch As part of a commercial arrangement with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), and Department of Space, PSLV-C47 will also carry 13 commercial nanosatellites from the United States of America. This will be the 74th launch vehicle mission from SDSC SHAR, Sriharikota. Later, ISRO will launch two more surveillance satellites - Risat-2BR1 and Risat-2BR2 in December. The organisation has already launched two surveillance satellites Risat-2B and EMISAT on May 22 and April 1 respectively. ISRO took a six-month hiatus from launching satellites owing to the moon mission called Chandrayaan-2.

ISRO to launch Cartosat-3, 13 nano satellites on November 25

India has been ranked 7th in the countries suffering the most deaths from terrorism in 2018, according to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/terrorism-related-deaths-decrease-by-15-in-2018-taliban-becomes-deadliest-terror-group-report-263443">2019 Global Terrorism Index Report.</a>

India is ranked third in the countries with the greatest number of terrorist attacks with nearly 748 recorded terror incidents in 2018.A total number of 350 Indians killed and 540 injured in these incidents.

India has&nbsp;recorded a slight improvement in the number of terrorist attacks in the country, while also recording a slight decrease in the number of deaths.&nbsp;

In 1998, about 4.3 people were killed in each attack. That dropped to 1.6 deaths per attack in 2008, and 0.5 in 2018. "In 2018 alone, 69 per cent of attacks had zero fatalities and 22 per cent had one fatality", says the report.

Globally, terrorism-related deaths have fallen for the fourth consecutive year after peaking in 2014. The number of deaths have decreased by 52 per cent in four years, while the total number of deaths have decreased by 15 per-cent in 2018.

While this data represents constructive progress, the report also signals towards some alarming facts.&nbsp;

The report says that 71 countries suffered at least one terrorism-related death in 2018, the second-highest number since the beginning of the century.

South Asia has had the highest impact from terrorism since 2002.

The number of deaths by far-right terrorism has increased by 52 per cent in 2018 and the trends continuing this year.

According to the report, the attacks by the Taliban were deadlier than those committed by any other group in 2018. Due to which, Taliban overtook ISII or Islamic state of Iraq and the levant to become the deadliest terrorist group in the world.

It is worth noting, the Taliban is responsible for most terror-related deaths in Afghanistan and hence, it has overtaken Iraq to become the worst affected in 2018.

India has been ranked 7th in the countries suffering the most deaths from terrorism in 2018, according to 2019 Global Terrorism Index Report. India is ranked third in the countries with the greatest number of terrorist attacks with nearly 748 recorded terror incidents in 2018.

India has been ranked 7th in the countries suffering the most deaths from terrorism in 2018, according to 2019 Global Terrorism Index Report. India is ranked third in the countries with the greatest number of terrorist attacks with nearly 748 recorded terror incidents in 2018.A total number of 350 Indians killed and 540 injured in these incidents. India has recorded a slight improvement in the number of terrorist attacks in the country, while also recording a slight decrease in the number of deaths. In 1998, about 4.3 people were killed in each attack. That dropped to 1.6 deaths per attack in 2008, and 0.5 in 2018. "In 2018 alone, 69 per cent of attacks had zero fatalities and 22 per cent had one fatality", says the report. Globally, terrorism-related deaths have fallen for the fourth consecutive year after peaking in 2014. The number of deaths have decreased by 52 per cent in four years, while the total number of deaths have decreased by 15 per-cent in 2018. While this data represents constructive progress, the report also signals towards some alarming facts. The report says that 71 countries suffered at least one terrorism-related death in 2018, the second-highest number since the beginning of the century. South Asia has had the highest impact from terrorism since 2002. The number of deaths by far-right terrorism has increased by 52 per cent in 2018 and the trends continuing this year. According to the report, the attacks by the Taliban were deadlier than those committed by any other group in 2018. Due to which, Taliban overtook ISII or Islamic state of Iraq and the levant to become the deadliest terrorist group in the world. It is worth noting, the Taliban is responsible for most terror-related deaths in Afghanistan and hence, it has overtaken Iraq to become the worst affected in 2018.

India is seventh worst hit country by terrorism: Global terrorism report

Road accidents in India claimed over 1.5 lakh lives in the country in 2018.

The ministry of road transport and highways has released its 'road accidents in India 2018-19 report.

Overspeeding has been identified as the foremost reason behind the maximum number of road-related deaths reported in India between January 1, 2018, and March 31, 2019.

The report shows that road accidents in 2018 increased by 0.46% as compared to 2017.

A total of 4,67,044 road accidents have been reported by states and union territories in 2018, claiming over 1.5 lakh lives and causing injuries to approximately 4,70,000 people.

Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh remain accounted for the highest number of road accidents and deaths on account of road accidents in 2018.

According to the road accidents in India 2018 report, New Delhi has been ranked first in the total number of road fatalities when compared to other Indian cities.

India ranks 1st in the number of road accident deaths across the 199 countries reported in the world road statistics, 2018 followed by China and the US.

As per the WHO global report on road safety 2018, India accounts for almost 11% of the accident-related deaths in the world.

Road accidents in India claimed over 1.5 lakh lives in the country in 2018. The ministry of road transport and highways has released its 'road accidents in India 2018-19 report.

Road accidents in India claimed over 1.5 lakh lives in the country in 2018. The ministry of road transport and highways has released its 'road accidents in India 2018-19 report. Overspeeding has been identified as the foremost reason behind the maximum number of road-related deaths reported in India between January 1, 2018, and March 31, 2019. The report shows that road accidents in 2018 increased by 0.46% as compared to 2017. A total of 4,67,044 road accidents have been reported by states and union territories in 2018, claiming over 1.5 lakh lives and causing injuries to approximately 4,70,000 people. Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh remain accounted for the highest number of road accidents and deaths on account of road accidents in 2018. According to the road accidents in India 2018 report, New Delhi has been ranked first in the total number of road fatalities when compared to other Indian cities. India ranks 1st in the number of road accident deaths across the 199 countries reported in the world road statistics, 2018 followed by China and the US. As per the WHO global report on road safety 2018, India accounts for almost 11% of the accident-related deaths in the world.

India ranks first in the number of road accident deaths: WHO

''India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, PSLV-C47 will launch Cartosat-3 and 13 commercial nanosatellites into Sun Synchronous orbit from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR, Sriharikota. The launch is tentatively scheduled at 0928 Hrs IST on November 25, 2019.''

ISRO fixed a date & time for launch of 'Cartosat-3' and 13 commercial nanosatellites

For the first time a paramilitary force is planning to hire approximately 1.2 lakh retired defence and ex-Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) personnel.

Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which comes under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has prepared a blueprint for hiring these personnel for the force.

Their hiring would be done for five years, a letter accessed by ANI says.

"Please refer to the discussions held during video conferencing on 18.11.2019 under the chairmanship of DG, CISF, on the above subject. It is mentioned that a proposal for raising of ceiling limit from 1,80,000 to 2,15,000 posts as well as raising of 04 Reserve Battalions was submitted to MHA on 27.05.2019. MHA has advised resubmitting the proposal for raising the ceiling of CISF from 1,80,000 to 3,00,000 posts," says the CISF letter, issued from by DG office.

"Further, it was also directed to undertake marketing of CISF security to big private industrial establishments and for this purpose, a Unit within CISF may be created within the available resources and manpower," the letter written on Tuesday adds.

DG, CISF, has asked all Inspectors General (IGs) to identify large industrial establishments in the private sector where CISF can be deployed and forward their report.

Accordingly, a revised proposal for raising the ceiling of CISF from 1,80,000 to 3,00,000 posts as well as raising 16 additional Reserve Battalions was sent to the MHA on November 5.

MHA advised CISF after a meeting held by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on September 23 to make a contractual appointment of retired defence /ex-CAPFs personnel in the CISF for five years and re-structure and deploy CISF personnel in the ratio of 3:2, wherein 3 may be permanent and 2 may be temporary.

"As directed by DG, CISF during today's video conferencing, a proposal has to be submitted to the MHA in this regard by 22.11.2019," the letter further says.

For the first time a paramilitary force is planning to hire approximately 1.2 lakh retired defence and ex-Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) personnel. Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which comes under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has prepared a blueprint for hiring these personnel for the force.

For the first time a paramilitary force is planning to hire approximately 1.2 lakh retired defence and ex-Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) personnel. Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which comes under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has prepared a blueprint for hiring these personnel for the force. Their hiring would be done for five years, a letter accessed by ANI says. "Please refer to the discussions held during video conferencing on 18.11.2019 under the chairmanship of DG, CISF, on the above subject. It is mentioned that a proposal for raising of ceiling limit from 1,80,000 to 2,15,000 posts as well as raising of 04 Reserve Battalions was submitted to MHA on 27.05.2019. MHA has advised resubmitting the proposal for raising the ceiling of CISF from 1,80,000 to 3,00,000 posts," says the CISF letter, issued from by DG office. "Further, it was also directed to undertake marketing of CISF security to big private industrial establishments and for this purpose, a Unit within CISF may be created within the available resources and manpower," the letter written on Tuesday adds. DG, CISF, has asked all Inspectors General (IGs) to identify large industrial establishments in the private sector where CISF can be deployed and forward their report. Accordingly, a revised proposal for raising the ceiling of CISF from 1,80,000 to 3,00,000 posts as well as raising 16 additional Reserve Battalions was sent to the MHA on November 5. MHA advised CISF after a meeting held by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on September 23 to make a contractual appointment of retired defence /ex-CAPFs personnel in the CISF for five years and re-structure and deploy CISF personnel in the ratio of 3:2, wherein 3 may be permanent and 2 may be temporary. "As directed by DG, CISF during today's video conferencing, a proposal has to be submitted to the MHA in this regard by 22.11.2019," the letter further says.

CISF to appoint 1.2 lakh retired defence, CAPF jawans on 5-year contract to be 3 lakh strong force

A petition was filed in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/make-new-law-regarding-entry-of-women-into-sabarimala-temple-supreme-court-263366">Supreme Court</a> on Wednesday seeking a direction to the Election Commission (EC) to investigate the 17th Lok Sabha election results for discrepancies.

The petition filed by Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and Common Cause submitted that they are not challenging the final result of the 2019 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ten-agencies-allowed-to-intercept-information-government-in-lok-sabha-on-pegasus-whatsapp-row-263323">Lok Sabha</a> elections.

"However, the issues and irregularities that arose in the conduct of the election are being cited as arguments for seeking the prayers sought in the petition for effectuating free and fair elections, the survival of democracy and for the enforcement of fundamental rights," the petition stated.

The BJP-led NDA government had returned to a thumping majority in the elections. 
The petitioner also sought a direction to the poll body to conduct actual and accurate reconciliation of data before declaring any election result.

"That in order to uphold and preserve the sanctity of elections, it is undeniably imperative that election results are accurate. The entire electoral process is damaged if elections are not credible even in the absence of a demonstrable scam," the plea said. 
The petition was filed to ensure that the democratic process is not subverted by electoral irregularities, it stated.

The petition cited a letter written by former IAS officer Kannan Gopinath to the Chief Election Commissioner regarding serious loopholes and vulnerabilities in the use of VVPAT machines which made EVMs susceptible to potential hacking.

A petition was filed in the Supreme Court on Wednesday seeking a direction to the Election Commission (EC) to investigate the 17th Lok Sabha election results for discrepancies.

A petition was filed in the Supreme Court on Wednesday seeking a direction to the Election Commission (EC) to investigate the 17th Lok Sabha election results for discrepancies. The petition filed by Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and Common Cause submitted that they are not challenging the final result of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. "However, the issues and irregularities that arose in the conduct of the election are being cited as arguments for seeking the prayers sought in the petition for effectuating free and fair elections, the survival of democracy and for the enforcement of fundamental rights," the petition stated. The BJP-led NDA government had returned to a thumping majority in the elections. The petitioner also sought a direction to the poll body to conduct actual and accurate reconciliation of data before declaring any election result. "That in order to uphold and preserve the sanctity of elections, it is undeniably imperative that election results are accurate. The entire electoral process is damaged if elections are not credible even in the absence of a demonstrable scam," the plea said. The petition was filed to ensure that the democratic process is not subverted by electoral irregularities, it stated. The petition cited a letter written by former IAS officer Kannan Gopinath to the Chief Election Commissioner regarding serious loopholes and vulnerabilities in the use of VVPAT machines which made EVMs susceptible to potential hacking.

Petition in Supreme Court seeks probe into Lok Sabha election results

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday adjourned the hearing on a petition seeking a direction to link movable and immovable property documents of citizens with their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-passes-aadhaar-bill-government-says-will-bring-comprehensive-law-on-data-protection-234108">Aadhaar</a> number to curb corruption, black money generation and Benami transactions.

A division bench of Chief Justice D N Patel and Justice C Harishankar adjourned the matter after the counsel appearing for the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) sought more time. The matter will now be taken up on February 18, 2020.

The court had in July issued a notice to both the Centre and the city-state government on the plea.

The petition in this regard was filed by advocate and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shiv-sena-hits-out-at-bjp-for-making-its-mps-sit-in-opposition-in-parliament-263090">BJP </a>leader Ashwini Upadhyay, who submitted that it is the duty of the government to take apposite steps to curb corruption and seize the Benami properties made by illegal means.

"Executive action should be taken to warn the corrupt that betrayal of the public trust will no longer be tolerated and to reaffirm the rule of law and transparency," the plea submitted.

The petitioner said that the main advantage of the strategy would be that the tax authorities will get the details of "legal owners" immediately and once the Aadhaar linkage takes place, tax authorities can approach them.

"It will clean our electoral process, which is dominated by black-money and Benami transaction and thrives on a cycle of large black investments, the capture of power through foul means and use of political strength to amass private wealth, all with disdain of the citizen," the petition stated.

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday adjourned the hearing on a petition seeking a direction to link movable and immovable property documents of citizens with their Aadhaar number to curb corruption, black money generation and Benami transactions.

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday adjourned the hearing on a petition seeking a direction to link movable and immovable property documents of citizens with their Aadhaar number to curb corruption, black money generation and Benami transactions. A division bench of Chief Justice D N Patel and Justice C Harishankar adjourned the matter after the counsel appearing for the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) sought more time. The matter will now be taken up on February 18, 2020. The court had in July issued a notice to both the Centre and the city-state government on the plea. The petition in this regard was filed by advocate and BJP leader Ashwini Upadhyay, who submitted that it is the duty of the government to take apposite steps to curb corruption and seize the Benami properties made by illegal means. "Executive action should be taken to warn the corrupt that betrayal of the public trust will no longer be tolerated and to reaffirm the rule of law and transparency," the plea submitted. The petitioner said that the main advantage of the strategy would be that the tax authorities will get the details of "legal owners" immediately and once the Aadhaar linkage takes place, tax authorities can approach them. "It will clean our electoral process, which is dominated by black-money and Benami transaction and thrives on a cycle of large black investments, the capture of power through foul means and use of political strength to amass private wealth, all with disdain of the citizen," the petition stated.

Delhi High Court adjourns hearing on plea seeking linkage of Aadhaar to properties

Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Wednesday told the Lok Sabha that WhatsApp has informed that the full extent of targeting of mobile phone users, including 121 from India, using Israeli <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nso-snoop-row-how-pegasus-broke-into-whatsapp-260055">Pegasus spyware</a> may never be known and the Computer Emergency

Response Team (CERT-In) has issued a formal notice to the social media platform seeking submission of details and information.

In a written reply, Prasad said that attempts to malign the Government of India for the reported breach are completely misleading.

He said the government has taken note of the fact that a "spyware/malware has affected some Whatsapp users".

The minister said according to WhatsApp, this spyware was developed by an Israel based company NSO Group and that it had developed and used

Pegasus spyware to attempt to reach mobile phones of a possible number of 1400 users globally that includes 121 users from India.

Also watch:&nbsp;All about NSO'S super weapon: Pegasus

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&nbsp;

He said there are adequate provisions in the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000 to deal with hacking, spyware etc.

The minister said that CERT-In published a vulnerability note on May 17, 2019, advising countermeasures to users regarding a vulnerability in WhatsApp.

"Subsequently, on May 20, 2019, WhatsApp reported an incident to the CERT-In stating that WhatsApp had identified and promptly fixed a vulnerability that could enable an attacker to insert and execute code on mobile devices and that the vulnerability can no longer be exploited to carry out attacks," the minister said.

"On September 5, 2019, WhatsApp wrote to CERT-In mentioning an update to the security incident reported in May 2019, that while the full extent of this attack may never be known, WhatsApp continued to review the available information. It also mentioned that WhatsApp believes it is likely that devices of approximately one hundred and twenty-one users in India may have been attempted to be reached," he added.

He said CERT-In has issued a formal notice to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/whastapp-replies-to-government-says-alerted-about-privacy-breach-in-september-259803">WhatsApp </a>seeking submission of relevant details and information based on media reports on October 31, 2019, about such targeting of mobile devices of Indian citizens through WhatsApp by spyware Pegasus.

Referring to reports in a section of media, he said: "attempts to malign the Government of India for the reported breach are completely misleading". 
"The government is committed to protecting the fundamental rights of citizens, including the right to privacy. The government operates strictly as per provisions of law and laid down protocols," said he.

The minister said that the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology is also working on the Personal Data Protection Bill to safeguard the privacy of citizens, and it is proposed to table it in Parliament.

Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Wednesday told the Lok Sabha that WhatsApp has informed that the full extent of targeting of mobile phone users, including 121 from India, using Israeli Pegasus spyware may never be known and the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has issued a formal notice to the social media platform seeking submission of details and information.

Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Wednesday told the Lok Sabha that WhatsApp has informed that the full extent of targeting of mobile phone users, including 121 from India, using Israeli Pegasus spyware may never be known and the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has issued a formal notice to the social media platform seeking submission of details and information. In a written reply, Prasad said that attempts to malign the Government of India for the reported breach are completely misleading. He said the government has taken note of the fact that a "spyware/malware has affected some Whatsapp users". The minister said according to WhatsApp, this spyware was developed by an Israel based company NSO Group and that it had developed and used Pegasus spyware to attempt to reach mobile phones of a possible number of 1400 users globally that includes 121 users from India. Also watch: All about NSO'S super weapon: Pegasus × He said there are adequate provisions in the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000 to deal with hacking, spyware etc. The minister said that CERT-In published a vulnerability note on May 17, 2019, advising countermeasures to users regarding a vulnerability in WhatsApp. "Subsequently, on May 20, 2019, WhatsApp reported an incident to the CERT-In stating that WhatsApp had identified and promptly fixed a vulnerability that could enable an attacker to insert and execute code on mobile devices and that the vulnerability can no longer be exploited to carry out attacks," the minister said. "On September 5, 2019, WhatsApp wrote to CERT-In mentioning an update to the security incident reported in May 2019, that while the full extent of this attack may never be known, WhatsApp continued to review the available information. It also mentioned that WhatsApp believes it is likely that devices of approximately one hundred and twenty-one users in India may have been attempted to be reached," he added. He said CERT-In has issued a formal notice to WhatsApp seeking submission of relevant details and information based on media reports on October 31, 2019, about such targeting of mobile devices of Indian citizens through WhatsApp by spyware Pegasus. Referring to reports in a section of media, he said: "attempts to malign the Government of India for the reported breach are completely misleading". "The government is committed to protecting the fundamental rights of citizens, including the right to privacy. The government operates strictly as per provisions of law and laid down protocols," said he. The minister said that the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology is also working on the Personal Data Protection Bill to safeguard the privacy of citizens, and it is proposed to table it in Parliament.

121 Indian users targeted in Pegasus spyware attack, full extent may never be known: Whatsapp

A 105-year-old grandmother has proved that age is not a barrier to get education as she became the "oldest learner" of Kerala government's literacy mission by appearing for the fourth standard exam. &nbsp;

Bageerathi Amma, a mother of six and grandmother of 16 children from Parakulam village of Kollam district in Kerala, had to stop her education when she nine as she was required to take care of her younger siblings. Kerala State Literacy Mission took the initiative and is helping Bageerathi to realise her dreams. Bageerathi's exams began on Sunday and were completed yesterday.&nbsp;

"She is a real motivation for others who want to learn," said CK Pradeep Kumar district co-ordinator of State Literary Mission.&nbsp;

Kerala has a literacy rate of 94 per cent, highest amongst the Indian states.&nbsp;

The state's literacy mission aims to develop literacy skills of each and everyone interested in learning. The literacy mission aims to ensure secondary-level education to everyone in the state especially the illiterates, neo-literates, school drop-outs and those interested in life long education.&nbsp;

(with inputs from ANI)

 
&nbsp;

A 105-year-old grandmother has proved that age is not a barrier to get education as she became the "oldest learner" of Kerala government's literacy mission by appearing for the fourth standard exam.

A 105-year-old grandmother has proved that age is not a barrier to get education as she became the "oldest learner" of Kerala government's literacy mission by appearing for the fourth standard exam. Bageerathi Amma, a mother of six and grandmother of 16 children from Parakulam village of Kollam district in Kerala, had to stop her education when she nine as she was required to take care of her younger siblings. Kerala State Literacy Mission took the initiative and is helping Bageerathi to realise her dreams. Bageerathi's exams began on Sunday and were completed yesterday. "She is a real motivation for others who want to learn," said CK Pradeep Kumar district co-ordinator of State Literary Mission. Kerala has a literacy rate of 94 per cent, highest amongst the Indian states. The state's literacy mission aims to develop literacy skills of each and everyone interested in learning. The literacy mission aims to ensure secondary-level education to everyone in the state especially the illiterates, neo-literates, school drop-outs and those interested in life long education. (with inputs from ANI)

105-year-old grandmother appears for Class 4 school exam in Kerala

Union Home Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../jammu-kashmir-situation-fully-normal-none- died-in-police-firing-since-august-5-amit-shah-263354">Amit Shah</a> said in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday that all citizens of India irrespective of religion will figure in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../bjp-can-never-come-to-power-in-west-bengal- nor-can-it-implement-nrc-here-tmcs-madan-mitra-256947">National Register of Citizens</a> (NRC) list and that NRC is different from the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../aap-protests-in-parliament-demands-inclusion- of-bill-on-unauthorised-colonies-in-winter-session-263360"> </a>Citizenship Amendment Bill.

"NRC has no such provision which says that certain religions will be excluded from it. All citizens of India irrespective of religion will figure in the NRC list. The NRC is different from Citizenship Amendment Bill," said Shah addressing the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../amit-shah-to-speak-in-rajya-sabha-today- 263306">Rajya Sabha</a> here.

"The process of NRC will be carried out across the country. No one, irrespective of religion should be worried, it is just a process to get everyone under the NRC," he added.

Speaking in the Upper House of Parliament Shah said: "People whose name have not figured in the draft list have the right to go to the Tribunal. Tribunals will be constituted across Assam. For those who can't afford legal counsel for the Tribunal, the Assam government will bear the cost to hire a lawyer."

He said that<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../aap-protests-in-parliament-demands-inclusion- of-bill-on-unauthorised-colonies-in-winter-session-263360"> Citizenship Amendment Bill</a> is needed so that Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Jain, Christian, Parsi refugees who are being discriminated on basis of religion in Pakistan, Bangladesh or Afghanistan, get Indian citizenship.

"Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Jain, Christian, Parsi refugees should get citizenship, that is why Citizenship Amendment Bill is needed so that these refugees who are being discriminated on basis of religion in Pakistan, Bangladesh or Afghanistan, get Indian citizenship," said Shah.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016, which was passed in the Lok Sabha on January 8, aims at granting citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan who came to India before December 31, 2014.

In the final NRC list published on August 31, a total of 3,11,21,004 persons were found eligible for inclusion in the list leaving out 19,06,657 persons, including those who did not submit their claims in Assam..

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday that all citizens of India irrespective of religion will figure in the National Register of Citizens (NRC) list and that NRC is different from the Citizenship Amendment Bill.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday that all citizens of India irrespective of religion will figure in the National Register of Citizens (NRC) list and that NRC is different from the Citizenship Amendment Bill. "NRC has no such provision which says that certain religions will be excluded from it. All citizens of India irrespective of religion will figure in the NRC list. The NRC is different from Citizenship Amendment Bill," said Shah addressing the Rajya Sabha here. "The process of NRC will be carried out across the country. No one, irrespective of religion should be worried, it is just a process to get everyone under the NRC," he added. Speaking in the Upper House of Parliament Shah said: "People whose name have not figured in the draft list have the right to go to the Tribunal. Tribunals will be constituted across Assam. For those who can't afford legal counsel for the Tribunal, the Assam government will bear the cost to hire a lawyer." He said that Citizenship Amendment Bill is needed so that Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Jain, Christian, Parsi refugees who are being discriminated on basis of religion in Pakistan, Bangladesh or Afghanistan, get Indian citizenship. "Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Jain, Christian, Parsi refugees should get citizenship, that is why Citizenship Amendment Bill is needed so that these refugees who are being discriminated on basis of religion in Pakistan, Bangladesh or Afghanistan, get Indian citizenship," said Shah. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016, which was passed in the Lok Sabha on January 8, aims at granting citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan who came to India before December 31, 2014. In the final NRC list published on August 31, a total of 3,11,21,004 persons were found eligible for inclusion in the list leaving out 19,06,657 persons, including those who did not submit their claims in Assam..

NRC will cover everybody across India, irrespective of religion: Amit Shah

Amidst the power struggle in Maharashtra, NCP chief Sharad Pawar met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday to discuss the farmer crisis in the state.&nbsp;

"Due to the prevalence of Presidential Rule in the state, your urgent intervention is highly necessitated. I shall be grateful if you take immediate steps to initiate massive relief measures and ameliorate the miseries of the distressed farmers" Pawar wrote in a letter to the prime minister.&nbsp;

Interestingly, NCP is in talks with Shiv Sena and Congress regarding the government formation in Maharashtra. However, new political scenario might create in <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/maharashtra-political-crisis-top-leaders-of-ncp-and-congress-to-meet-in-new-delhi-today-263293">Maharashtra</a> with Pawar-Modi meet. The government in Maharashtra can also be formed if NCP and BJP come together.&nbsp;

"I have collected data on crop damage from two districts, but damage because of excessive rains extends to rest of Maharashtra, including Marathwada and Vidarbha. I am collecting details and information regarding the same, which should be sent to you at the earliest," Pawar added.

Farmers have not yet received any loan waiver and in the wake of recent damage, the current farm loans should also be waived, Pawar wrote. &nbsp;

Earlier on Monday, PM Modi praised NCP and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) for following the parliamentary norms in a address to the Rajya Sabha (Upper House). The prime minister also added that his own party should learn from them. &nbsp;

Pawar also met Congress chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sharad-pawar-arrives-in-delhi-to-meet-sonia-gandhi-on-maharashtra-government-formation-262859">Sonia Gandhi </a>on Monday at her residence in Delhi but denied any talks regarding government formation in the state. Both Congress and NCP leaders will meet on Wednesday in the national capital regarding the common minimum programme (CMP) prepared by three parties 
including the Shiv Sena to form government in the state.&nbsp;

Earlier, Shiv Sena and BJP, who came together for elections in Maharashtra, had a fallout over power sharing agreement in the state. Shiv Sena claims that both parties agreed upon a 50:50 power sharing deal in which chief ministers from both the parties will hold office for a period of 2.5 years. However, BJP denies this claim.

In the Maharashtra Assembly elections that were concluded on October 21, BJP won the maximum number of seats 105. &nbsp;Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress won 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively. A majority of 144 seats is required to form government in the state.&nbsp;

Amidst the power struggle in Maharashtra, NCP chief Sharad Pawar met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday to discuss the farmer crisis in the state. "Due to the prevalence of Presidential Rule in the state, your urgent intervention is highly necessitated.

Amidst the power struggle in Maharashtra, NCP chief Sharad Pawar met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday to discuss the farmer crisis in the state. "Due to the prevalence of Presidential Rule in the state, your urgent intervention is highly necessitated. I shall be grateful if you take immediate steps to initiate massive relief measures and ameliorate the miseries of the distressed farmers" Pawar wrote in a letter to the prime minister. Interestingly, NCP is in talks with Shiv Sena and Congress regarding the government formation in Maharashtra. However, new political scenario might create in Maharashtra with Pawar-Modi meet. The government in Maharashtra can also be formed if NCP and BJP come together. "I have collected data on crop damage from two districts, but damage because of excessive rains extends to rest of Maharashtra, including Marathwada and Vidarbha. I am collecting details and information regarding the same, which should be sent to you at the earliest," Pawar added. Farmers have not yet received any loan waiver and in the wake of recent damage, the current farm loans should also be waived, Pawar wrote. Earlier on Monday, PM Modi praised NCP and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) for following the parliamentary norms in a address to the Rajya Sabha (Upper House). The prime minister also added that his own party should learn from them. Pawar also met Congress chief Sonia Gandhi on Monday at her residence in Delhi but denied any talks regarding government formation in the state. Both Congress and NCP leaders will meet on Wednesday in the national capital regarding the common minimum programme (CMP) prepared by three parties including the Shiv Sena to form government in the state. Earlier, Shiv Sena and BJP, who came together for elections in Maharashtra, had a fallout over power sharing agreement in the state. Shiv Sena claims that both parties agreed upon a 50:50 power sharing deal in which chief ministers from both the parties will hold office for a period of 2.5 years. However, BJP denies this claim. In the Maharashtra Assembly elections that were concluded on October 21, BJP won the maximum number of seats 105. Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress won 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively. A majority of 144 seats is required to form government in the state.

Sharad Pawar meets PM Narendra Modi to discuss farmer crisis in Maharashtra

The topic of the situations in Kashmir raised in the upper house of the Parliament that is Rajya Sabha. Indian Home Minister Amit Shah speak out in the upper house on the Kashmir situations. Let's listen to him...

Indian HM Amit Shah speak out in the upper house on the Kashmir situations

NSO snooping row now raised in Indian Parliament, Indian IT Minister replies in writing. Watch this video to understand the complete matter.

NSO snooping row now raised in Indian Parliament, Indian IT Minister replies in writing

Moving closer towards the appointment of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), the government has sought the names of commander-in-chief rank officers from the three services.

As part of the process, the government has also identified the appointment house for the individual appointed as the first CDS.

For the appointment, the Cabinet Committee on Security had appointed an implementation committee under National Security Advisor Ajit Doval who held meetings on the structure and responsibilities of the new position announced to be created by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/this-house-has-seen-many-historic-moments-says-modi-in-rajya-sabha-address-262903">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on August 15 this year.

"All the three services have forwarded the names of their commander-in-chief rank officers as was asked for by the government. The implementation committee report is also complete and would be finalised by the government soon," government sources told ANI.

Sources said during the initial stages of the appointment process, the thinking of the top government functionaries involved in the process was that the first person to be appointed for the post should be from the Indian Army.

Sources said that the purpose of seeking more names from services is to consider a larger pool of officers while making the appointment for the new office.

They added that it is most likely that the appointment would be made from the existing seniormost officers from the three services by the beginning of next month.

During the discussions, the defence forces in the implementation committee had conveyed to the government that the CDS could be an officer higher in protocol than the existing services chiefs.

The forces are also of the view that the CDS should be placed probably at 11A in the order of precedence where he would be above the services chiefs but a notch below the Cabinet Secretary.

In the order of precedence in the government, the cabinet secretary is at the 11th position while the services chiefs are at the 12th position. If the services' point is accepted, 11A would be a new position created for the CDS.

When the CDS is appointed, the first Vice Chief of Defence Staff would be Vice Admiral C Hari Kumar from the Navy who would be replacing Lieutenant General P Rajeshwar who is going to head the tri-services operational command in Andaman and Nicobar.

At present, the three services operate under the Integrated Defence Staff with joint staffing from the three forces. New cyber, space and special operations agencies have been created for the tri-services and they would be working under the CDS, sources said.

Moving closer towards the appointment of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), the government has sought the names of commander-in-chief rank officers from the three services.

Moving closer towards the appointment of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), the government has sought the names of commander-in-chief rank officers from the three services. As part of the process, the government has also identified the appointment house for the individual appointed as the first CDS. For the appointment, the Cabinet Committee on Security had appointed an implementation committee under National Security Advisor Ajit Doval who held meetings on the structure and responsibilities of the new position announced to be created by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 15 this year. "All the three services have forwarded the names of their commander-in-chief rank officers as was asked for by the government. The implementation committee report is also complete and would be finalised by the government soon," government sources told ANI. Sources said during the initial stages of the appointment process, the thinking of the top government functionaries involved in the process was that the first person to be appointed for the post should be from the Indian Army. Sources said that the purpose of seeking more names from services is to consider a larger pool of officers while making the appointment for the new office. They added that it is most likely that the appointment would be made from the existing seniormost officers from the three services by the beginning of next month. During the discussions, the defence forces in the implementation committee had conveyed to the government that the CDS could be an officer higher in protocol than the existing services chiefs. The forces are also of the view that the CDS should be placed probably at 11A in the order of precedence where he would be above the services chiefs but a notch below the Cabinet Secretary. In the order of precedence in the government, the cabinet secretary is at the 11th position while the services chiefs are at the 12th position. If the services' point is accepted, 11A would be a new position created for the CDS. When the CDS is appointed, the first Vice Chief of Defence Staff would be Vice Admiral C Hari Kumar from the Navy who would be replacing Lieutenant General P Rajeshwar who is going to head the tri-services operational command in Andaman and Nicobar. At present, the three services operate under the Integrated Defence Staff with joint staffing from the three forces. New cyber, space and special operations agencies have been created for the tri-services and they would be working under the CDS, sources said.

Government moves closer towards Chief of Defence Staff appointment

The Supreme Court on Wednesday asked the Kerala government to bring about a new law for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/devotees-visiting-sabarimala-temple-without-any-fear-devaswom-board-minister-262753">Sabarimala temple</a> matter in four weeks. 
 
A three-judge bench headed by Justice N V Ramana, B R Gavai and Subhash Reddy asked the state government to file a draft in four weeks and adjourned the matter for the 3rd week of January 2020. 
 
The apex court was hearing a petition filed by Pandalam Royal Family seeking the protection of their rights. 
 
The royal family was one among the batch of petitioners who had challenged top court's September 28, 2018 judgment, which declared that women of all age groups could enter the shrine. 
 
The court had last week referred these review petitions to a larger seven-judge bench. 
 
The apex court verdict came on 65 petitions - including 56 review petitions, four fresh writ petitions, and five transfer pleas. The petitions challenged the authority of the court to intervene in a belief of the people. 
 
They argued that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-devotees-pay-obeisance-at-sabarimala-temple-262681">Sabarimala deity</a> is a "Brahmachari" (celibate) and "centuries-old beliefs" should not be disturbed by the entry of menstruating women worshippers.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday asked the Kerala government to bring about a new law for Sabarimala temple matter in four weeks. A three-judge bench headed by Justice N V Ramana, B R Gavai and Subhash Reddy asked the state government to file a draft in four weeks and adjourned the matter for the 3rd week of January 2020.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday asked the Kerala government to bring about a new law for Sabarimala temple matter in four weeks. A three-judge bench headed by Justice N V Ramana, B R Gavai and Subhash Reddy asked the state government to file a draft in four weeks and adjourned the matter for the 3rd week of January 2020. The apex court was hearing a petition filed by Pandalam Royal Family seeking the protection of their rights. The royal family was one among the batch of petitioners who had challenged top court's September 28, 2018 judgment, which declared that women of all age groups could enter the shrine. The court had last week referred these review petitions to a larger seven-judge bench. The apex court verdict came on 65 petitions - including 56 review petitions, four fresh writ petitions, and five transfer pleas. The petitions challenged the authority of the court to intervene in a belief of the people. They argued that the Sabarimala deity is a "Brahmachari" (celibate) and "centuries-old beliefs" should not be disturbed by the entry of menstruating women worshippers.

Make new law regarding entry of women into Sabarimala temple: Supreme Court to Kerala government

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Wednesday protested in front of the Gandhi statue in the Parliament, demanding to bring a bill on the unauthorised colonies in this <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-to-speak-in-rajya-sabha-today-263306">winter session</a>.

The protest was led by AAP MP Sanjay Singh along with other party lawmakers including Bhagwant Mann who raised slogans against the Centre while holding placards in their hands.

Some of the placards read - "Bring bill on the unauthorised colonies and stop betraying public" and "allow registry of the houses constructed in unauthorised colonies."

"The Centre has given a list of 27 Bills mentioned in the list of business to be transacted in the winter session. In the list, there is no mention of the bill regarding people of the unauthorised colonies immediately getting registry papers and ownership rights from the Centre," Singh told ANI.

Also watch:&nbsp;Govt's focus in winter session of the Parliament: 'Citizenship Amendment Bill'

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Earlier this month, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/this-house-has-seen-many-historic-moments-says-modi-in-rajya-sabha-address-262903">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> had said that the Central government will diligently complete the work of transferring ownership rights to the 40 lakh people living in unauthorised colonies in the national capital and a bill will be brought in the winter session of Parliament.

"The government will complete the work with utmost responsibility," Modi had said addressing a gathering of BJP leaders along with Resident Welfare Association (RWA) officeholders and members of unauthorised colonies.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar, announcing the move, had said that the decision will benefit more than 40 lakh residents of unauthorised colonies spread over around 175 sq km as development and redevelopment can now take place in these colonies resulting in a clean, secure and healthy living environment.

The decision is applicable to 1,797 identified unauthorised colonies that are inhabited by lower-income groups and does not apply to 69 affluent colonies identified by DDA including Sainik Farms, Mahendru Enclave and Anant Ram Dairy.

The Winter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/citizenship-bill-in-focus-as-winter-session-of-parliament-gets-underway-from-today-262790">Session of the Parliament began</a> on November 18 and will continue till December 13.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Wednesday protested in front of the Gandhi statue in the Parliament, demanding to bring a bill on the unauthorised colonies in this winter session.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Wednesday protested in front of the Gandhi statue in the Parliament, demanding to bring a bill on the unauthorised colonies in this winter session. The protest was led by AAP MP Sanjay Singh along with other party lawmakers including Bhagwant Mann who raised slogans against the Centre while holding placards in their hands. Some of the placards read - "Bring bill on the unauthorised colonies and stop betraying public" and "allow registry of the houses constructed in unauthorised colonies." "The Centre has given a list of 27 Bills mentioned in the list of business to be transacted in the winter session. In the list, there is no mention of the bill regarding people of the unauthorised colonies immediately getting registry papers and ownership rights from the Centre," Singh told ANI. Also watch: Govt's focus in winter session of the Parliament: 'Citizenship Amendment Bill' × Earlier this month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that the Central government will diligently complete the work of transferring ownership rights to the 40 lakh people living in unauthorised colonies in the national capital and a bill will be brought in the winter session of Parliament. "The government will complete the work with utmost responsibility," Modi had said addressing a gathering of BJP leaders along with Resident Welfare Association (RWA) officeholders and members of unauthorised colonies. Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar, announcing the move, had said that the decision will benefit more than 40 lakh residents of unauthorised colonies spread over around 175 sq km as development and redevelopment can now take place in these colonies resulting in a clean, secure and healthy living environment. The decision is applicable to 1,797 identified unauthorised colonies that are inhabited by lower-income groups and does not apply to 69 affluent colonies identified by DDA including Sainik Farms, Mahendru Enclave and Anant Ram Dairy. The Winter Session of the Parliament began on November 18 and will continue till December 13.

AAP protests in Parliament, demands inclusion of bill on unauthorised colonies in winter session

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