Preparations are underway in full swing for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aam-aadmi-party-has-become-a-laughing-stock-jp-nadda-231468">JP Nadda</a>`s first visit to Lucknow on Friday as BJP`s working president.

Nadda was named the Working President of the party on June 17 after BJP chief Amit Shah was appointed as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-election-result-2019-bjp-leaders-react-to-landslide-win-of-pm-narendra-modi-220885">Union Home Minister</a>.

Since this is Nadda's maiden visit to the city, BJP leader Vidyasagar Sonkar has made a road map for his welcome in a meeting held here.

Nadda is visiting Lucknow to review preparations for the bypolls in 12 Assembly seats in the state.

He is also speculated to discuss the extension of the State Cabinet and the new BJP Chief in the state after Mahendra Nath Pandey was elevated to the post of Union Minister.

Nadda will also review preparations ahead of the membership drive which will be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 6 from the latter's parliamentary constituency Varanasi.

While addressing the meeting, Sonkar stated that the BJP got historic success in the Lok Sabha elections despite big promises made by the grand alliance of SP and BSP.

"Nadda is coming to Lucknow for the first time since becoming the working president. All the party workers need to take responsibility now onwards," he added.&nbsp;

Preparations are underway in full swing for JP Nadda`s first visit to Lucknow on Friday as BJP`s working president. Nadda was named the Working President of the party on June 17 after BJP chief Amit Shah was appointed as the Union Home Minister.

Preparations are underway in full swing for JP Nadda`s first visit to Lucknow on Friday as BJP`s working president. Nadda was named the Working President of the party on June 17 after BJP chief Amit Shah was appointed as the Union Home Minister. Since this is Nadda's maiden visit to the city, BJP leader Vidyasagar Sonkar has made a road map for his welcome in a meeting held here. Nadda is visiting Lucknow to review preparations for the bypolls in 12 Assembly seats in the state. He is also speculated to discuss the extension of the State Cabinet and the new BJP Chief in the state after Mahendra Nath Pandey was elevated to the post of Union Minister. Nadda will also review preparations ahead of the membership drive which will be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 6 from the latter's parliamentary constituency Varanasi. While addressing the meeting, Sonkar stated that the BJP got historic success in the Lok Sabha elections despite big promises made by the grand alliance of SP and BSP. "Nadda is coming to Lucknow for the first time since becoming the working president. All the party workers need to take responsibility now onwards," he added.

Lucknow: Stage set for JP Nadda's maiden visit as Bharatiya Janata Party working president

BJP MLA from Ganj Basoda, Leena Jain on Monday approached the police stating that she has received a letter in which a person threatened to blow up Union Home Minister Amit Shah as well as her, police said.

"Personal Assistant of MLA, Satish Srivastava presented a letter to us. He said that the letter was sent at his office via post. The letter has threatened to blow up the railway station, hospital, police station, the MLA and the Union Home Minister," Town Inspector, Ganj Basoda Prakash Sharma told reporters here.

"We have informed the senior officials and the security has been tightened in the area. Bomb disposal squad has also been called," he said.

Jain told the police that she received a letter at her office on Monday."I have received the letter around 2:30 pm at my office. In the letter, someone has threatened to blow up Home Minister Amit Shah, Ganj Basoda railway station, police station and Rajiv Gandhi hospital were threatened to blow up," she said.

BJP MLA from Ganj Basoda, Leena Jain on Monday approached the police stating that she has received a letter in which a person threatened to blow up Union Home Minister Amit Shah as well as her, police said.

BJP MLA from Ganj Basoda, Leena Jain on Monday approached the police stating that she has received a letter in which a person threatened to blow up Union Home Minister Amit Shah as well as her, police said. "Personal Assistant of MLA, Satish Srivastava presented a letter to us. He said that the letter was sent at his office via post. The letter has threatened to blow up the railway station, hospital, police station, the MLA and the Union Home Minister," Town Inspector, Ganj Basoda Prakash Sharma told reporters here. "We have informed the senior officials and the security has been tightened in the area. Bomb disposal squad has also been called," he said. Jain told the police that she received a letter at her office on Monday."I have received the letter around 2:30 pm at my office. In the letter, someone has threatened to blow up Home Minister Amit Shah, Ganj Basoda railway station, police station and Rajiv Gandhi hospital were threatened to blow up," she said.

Madhya Pradesh: Bharatiya Janta Party MLA Leena Jain receives threat letter to blow up Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday appealed to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to maintain peace in the state as political killings are not good for democracy and such incidents must be stopped.

Replying during a debate in Rajya Sabha over a resolution seeking an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-government-working-on-atal-jis-path-of-jamuriyat-kashmiriyat-aur-insaniyat-amit-shah-232137">extension of President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir</a> for a further period of six months and also the Jammu and Kashmir reservation Bill, Shah also said Modi government was committed to NRC and Citizenship Amendment Bill.

"Advisories were issued to West Bengal government, not for law and order situation in the state. It was issued for political killings. Mamataji should maintain peace. Sending advisories is my right. Political killing is not good for a healthy democracy. It must be stopped," Shah said.

He was responding to the criticism by Trinamool Congress's Derek O'Brien that Modi government sent two advisories to West Bengal but remained silent on deaths of children in Bihar's Muzaffarpur and killings in Uttar Pradesh.

"Advisories are not issued on health issues," Shah said differentiating the violence in West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh.

"Uttar Pradesh has not witnessed a single political killing after the BJP government took over," he said.

The Union Minister said that the Modi government was clear that infiltration must be curbed and infiltrators must be identified and sent away.

"We are committed to NRC," he said.

Shah said the government will bring Citizenship Amendment Bill to grant Indian citizenship to persecuted Hindu refugees. 
&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday appealed to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to maintain peace in the state as political killings are not good for democracy and such incidents must be stopped.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday appealed to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to maintain peace in the state as political killings are not good for democracy and such incidents must be stopped. Replying during a debate in Rajya Sabha over a resolution seeking an extension of President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir for a further period of six months and also the Jammu and Kashmir reservation Bill, Shah also said Modi government was committed to NRC and Citizenship Amendment Bill. "Advisories were issued to West Bengal government, not for law and order situation in the state. It was issued for political killings. Mamataji should maintain peace. Sending advisories is my right. Political killing is not good for a healthy democracy. It must be stopped," Shah said. He was responding to the criticism by Trinamool Congress's Derek O'Brien that Modi government sent two advisories to West Bengal but remained silent on deaths of children in Bihar's Muzaffarpur and killings in Uttar Pradesh. "Advisories are not issued on health issues," Shah said differentiating the violence in West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh. "Uttar Pradesh has not witnessed a single political killing after the BJP government took over," he said. The Union Minister said that the Modi government was clear that infiltration must be curbed and infiltrators must be identified and sent away. "We are committed to NRC," he said. Shah said the government will bring Citizenship Amendment Bill to grant Indian citizenship to persecuted Hindu refugees.

Political killings must stop in West Bengal: Home Minister Amit Shah to Mamata Banerjee

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-govt-committed-to-bringing-kashmiri-pandits-back-to-valley-amit-shah-232113">Union Home Minister Amit Shah</a> on Monday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is working on former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's path of "Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, Insaniyat".

Shah began his speech by condoling the 35 lives lost in a bus accident that took place in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kishtwar-accident-jammu-kashmir-governor-satya-pal-malik-announces-ex-gratia-of-5-lakh-231960">Kishtwar in Jammu and Kashmir</a> today.

Renewing the promise made by late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee while delivering <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-have-enough-state-governments-dont-prefer-ruling-jammu-and-kashmir-through-presidents-rule-amit-shah-232128">speech in Rajya Sabha</a>, Shah said, "Atal Bihari Vajpayee had said that solution of Kashmir's problem should be in "Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, and Insaniyat", I reiterate today that Modi-led government is also working on Atal ji's path of "Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, and Insaniyat".

While defining the terms, the minister said "Kashmiriyat" will protect the culture of Kashmir.

He added that Modi government's motto of development has been inherent in the term "Insaniyat" while "Jamuriyat" (democracy), is what the Centre is hoping to achieve through the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019.

Reiterating that ruling BJP-led NDA government has zero tolerance towards terrorism, the Union Minister said, "Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. Everyone knows Kashmir is ours and no one takes Kashmir away from India. Modi-led government has zero tolerance towards terrorism and we are committed to ending it."

Shah asserted that the Modi-led government brought development to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-approves-statutory-resolution-to-extend-presidents-rule-in-jammu-and-kashmir-for-6-months-232106">Jammu and Kashmir under President's Rule</a>.

&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is working on former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's path of "Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, Insaniyat".

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is working on former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's path of "Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, Insaniyat". Shah began his speech by condoling the 35 lives lost in a bus accident that took place in Kishtwar in Jammu and Kashmir today. Renewing the promise made by late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee while delivering speech in Rajya Sabha, Shah said, "Atal Bihari Vajpayee had said that solution of Kashmir's problem should be in "Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, and Insaniyat", I reiterate today that Modi-led government is also working on Atal ji's path of "Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, and Insaniyat". While defining the terms, the minister said "Kashmiriyat" will protect the culture of Kashmir. He added that Modi government's motto of development has been inherent in the term "Insaniyat" while "Jamuriyat" (democracy), is what the Centre is hoping to achieve through the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019. Reiterating that ruling BJP-led NDA government has zero tolerance towards terrorism, the Union Minister said, "Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. Everyone knows Kashmir is ours and no one takes Kashmir away from India. Modi-led government has zero tolerance towards terrorism and we are committed to ending it." Shah asserted that the Modi-led government brought development to Jammu and Kashmir under President's Rule.

Modi government working on Atal ji's path of 'Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, aur Insaniyat': Amit Shah

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-govt-committed-to-bringing-kashmiri-pandits-back-to-valley-amit-shah-232113">Union Home Minister Amit Shah</a> on Monday took a dig at Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad saying that the BJP is in power in "enough state governments" and that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-approves-statutory-resolution-to-extend-presidents-rule-in-jammu-and-kashmir-for-6-months-232106">President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir</a> was only due to security reasons.

"We don't prefer ruling through President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir as you said, with God's grace and Modi ji's (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) popularity, we have enough state governments, 16 in total. So, it was due to security concerns that elections were not held," he said responding to the jibe from the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha.

The Home Minister made the remarks during his address in the Upper House on Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill.

"Stop running the government from Delhi. That will be biggest confidence-building measure," Ghulam Nabi Azad had said earlier during the debate on the extension of President's Rule in the state.

"When it comes to Assembly elections, the government is hesitant. You want to run the government without accountability," the Congress leader had said.

The Home Minister also dismissed assertions by the Opposition leaders that the government was spreading misinformation against late Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.

"Ghulam Nabi Azad ji and Manoj Jha ji (RJD leader) said that we (government) want to spread misinformation against Nehruji among the Indian public. This is wrong. This is not our intention and never will be. But the nations which don't learn from their mistakes in history don't have a bright future," he said.

Azad had strongly defended the role of Jawaharlal Nehru in relation to the developments in the state after BJP leaders accused the late Prime Minister of committing mistakes.

He said BJP can keep blaming Nehru but it was because of him that Kashmir was an integral part of India.

The Home Minister also said that his party walked out of the alliance with PDP after realising that separatism was being encouraged.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday took a dig at Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad saying that the BJP is in power in "enough state governments" and that President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir was only due to security reasons.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday took a dig at Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad saying that the BJP is in power in "enough state governments" and that President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir was only due to security reasons. "We don't prefer ruling through President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir as you said, with God's grace and Modi ji's (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) popularity, we have enough state governments, 16 in total. So, it was due to security concerns that elections were not held," he said responding to the jibe from the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha. The Home Minister made the remarks during his address in the Upper House on Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill. "Stop running the government from Delhi. That will be biggest confidence-building measure," Ghulam Nabi Azad had said earlier during the debate on the extension of President's Rule in the state. "When it comes to Assembly elections, the government is hesitant. You want to run the government without accountability," the Congress leader had said. The Home Minister also dismissed assertions by the Opposition leaders that the government was spreading misinformation against late Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. "Ghulam Nabi Azad ji and Manoj Jha ji (RJD leader) said that we (government) want to spread misinformation against Nehruji among the Indian public. This is wrong. This is not our intention and never will be. But the nations which don't learn from their mistakes in history don't have a bright future," he said. Azad had strongly defended the role of Jawaharlal Nehru in relation to the developments in the state after BJP leaders accused the late Prime Minister of committing mistakes. He said BJP can keep blaming Nehru but it was because of him that Kashmir was an integral part of India. The Home Minister also said that his party walked out of the alliance with PDP after realising that separatism was being encouraged.

We have enough state governments, don't prefer ruling Jammu and Kashmir through President's Rule: Amit Shah

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/ensure-india-is-number-1-in-disaster-management-amit-shah-231525">Home Minister Amit Shah</a> on Monday said that the Centre is committed to bringing Kashmiri Pandits and Sufis back to the valley saying a time will come when they will offer prayers at the famous Kheer Bhawani temple.

"Kashmiri Pandits were forced to leave Kashmir. Many of their shrines were demolished. Sufism was targeted in Jammu and Kashmir. Sufism used to talk about unity and harmony but they were attacked. No voice was raised in favour of Kashmiri Pandits and Sufis when they were brutally attacked. Sufis used to talk about the unity among Hindus and Muslims but they were forced to leave the Valley. Modi-led government is committed to bringing back Kashmiri Pandits,"&nbsp;he said.

Shah was replying to the debate in the House on the extension of President's rule in the state and the bill providing job and educational reservation for those living along the International Border in Jammu on the lines of the facility being enjoyed by those living along the Line of Control.

Talking at length about Kashmir Pandits and Sufis who were thrown out of their homes in the valley, Shah said, "We will be the ones protecting the culture of Kashmir. A time will come when Kashmiri Pandits will be seen offering prayers at Mata Kheer Bhawani temple and Sufis will also be seen alongside them. Modi government is committed to retaining the culture of Kashmir."

Mata Kheer Bhawani temple is one of the holiest shrines of Kashmiri Pandits, located about 14 km east of Srinagar.

Attacking the Opposition, Shah said, "Kashmiri Pandits have been thrown out of Kashmir" and asked if destroying their shrine was Kashmiriyat.

Ever after more than two decades, the Kashmiri Pandit community has still not been able to return to their ancestral land.

The Kashmiri Pandits were forced to flee the Valley as a result of being targeted by Islamist insurgents during late 1989 and early 1990.

Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said that the Centre is committed to bringing Kashmiri Pandits and Sufis back to the valley saying a time will come when they will offer prayers at the famous Kheer Bhawani temple.

Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said that the Centre is committed to bringing Kashmiri Pandits and Sufis back to the valley saying a time will come when they will offer prayers at the famous Kheer Bhawani temple. "Kashmiri Pandits were forced to leave Kashmir. Many of their shrines were demolished. Sufism was targeted in Jammu and Kashmir. Sufism used to talk about unity and harmony but they were attacked. No voice was raised in favour of Kashmiri Pandits and Sufis when they were brutally attacked. Sufis used to talk about the unity among Hindus and Muslims but they were forced to leave the Valley. Modi-led government is committed to bringing back Kashmiri Pandits," he said. Shah was replying to the debate in the House on the extension of President's rule in the state and the bill providing job and educational reservation for those living along the International Border in Jammu on the lines of the facility being enjoyed by those living along the Line of Control. Talking at length about Kashmir Pandits and Sufis who were thrown out of their homes in the valley, Shah said, "We will be the ones protecting the culture of Kashmir. A time will come when Kashmiri Pandits will be seen offering prayers at Mata Kheer Bhawani temple and Sufis will also be seen alongside them. Modi government is committed to retaining the culture of Kashmir." Mata Kheer Bhawani temple is one of the holiest shrines of Kashmiri Pandits, located about 14 km east of Srinagar. Attacking the Opposition, Shah said, "Kashmiri Pandits have been thrown out of Kashmir" and asked if destroying their shrine was Kashmiriyat. Ever after more than two decades, the Kashmiri Pandit community has still not been able to return to their ancestral land. The Kashmiri Pandits were forced to flee the Valley as a result of being targeted by Islamist insurgents during late 1989 and early 1990.

Modi government committed to bringing Kashmiri Pandits back to valley: Amit Shah

Rajya Sabha on Monday approved the statutory resolution to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/samajwadi-party-will-support-extension-of-presidents-rule-in-jammu-kashmir-ram-gopal-yadav-232008">extend President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir</a>. The extension is for a period of further 6 months which will come into effect from July 3.

The House also passed Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019.

While regional parties and the Congress did not stand in the favour of the extension, scores of political parties like Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party, Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress and the Biju Janata Dal announced their support to the extension and the bill on Monday.&nbsp;

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Rajya Sabha approves statutory resolution to extend President's rule in J&amp;K for a further period of 6 months with effect from 3rd July 2019; Also passes J&amp;K Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019. <a href="https://t.co/SkbbXnf1UV">pic.twitter.com/SkbbXnf1UV</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1145702023322570753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On June 28, Lok Sabha approved the statutory resolution to extend President's Rule in Jammu &amp; Kashmir with effect from July 3rd, 2019.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah had moved a resolution earlier in the lower house and had said that the extension was essential to facilitate fresh Assembly elections in the state later this year.

Shah, earlier in the day, said the government has no other option but to extend President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir as the Election Commission wants to hold Assembly elections in the state by the end of 2019.

Previously, former J&amp;K Chief Minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah criticised Shah’s argument in the House as an "unacceptable one".&nbsp;

“So the Home Minister’s argument is that because the Congress has used Article 356 more times than anyone else the Modi government is justified in denying the people of J&amp;K an elected government. That’s an unacceptable argument,” Abdullah tweeted on Friday.

The Congress strongly opposed the extension, blaming the "incompatible" alliance of BJP and PDP for the current security situation in the state.

"Today the situation is such that we have to extend the President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir for every six months. Its roots are in the incompatible alliance of PDP and BJP in 2015," Congress leader Manish Tewari said in the Lok Sabha on June 28.&nbsp;

The President's Rule was implemented in the state in June last year following the collapse of the PDP-BJP alliance. The State Assembly, initially kept in suspended animation was dissolved by Governor Satya Pal Malik in November.

Rajya Sabha on Monday approved the statutory resolution to extend President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir. The extension is for a period of further 6 months which will come into effect from July 3.

Rajya Sabha on Monday approved the statutory resolution to extend President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir. The extension is for a period of further 6 months which will come into effect from July 3. The House also passed Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019. While regional parties and the Congress did not stand in the favour of the extension, scores of political parties like Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party, Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress and the Biju Janata Dal announced their support to the extension and the bill on Monday. Rajya Sabha approves statutory resolution to extend President's rule in J&K for a further period of 6 months with effect from 3rd July 2019; Also passes J&K Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019. pic.twitter.com/SkbbXnf1UV — ANI (@ANI) July 1, 2019 × On June 28, Lok Sabha approved the statutory resolution to extend President's Rule in Jammu & Kashmir with effect from July 3rd, 2019. Union Home Minister Amit Shah had moved a resolution earlier in the lower house and had said that the extension was essential to facilitate fresh Assembly elections in the state later this year. Shah, earlier in the day, said the government has no other option but to extend President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir as the Election Commission wants to hold Assembly elections in the state by the end of 2019. Previously, former J&K Chief Minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah criticised Shah’s argument in the House as an "unacceptable one". “So the Home Minister’s argument is that because the Congress has used Article 356 more times than anyone else the Modi government is justified in denying the people of J&K an elected government. That’s an unacceptable argument,” Abdullah tweeted on Friday. The Congress strongly opposed the extension, blaming the "incompatible" alliance of BJP and PDP for the current security situation in the state. "Today the situation is such that we have to extend the President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir for every six months. Its roots are in the incompatible alliance of PDP and BJP in 2015," Congress leader Manish Tewari said in the Lok Sabha on June 28. The President's Rule was implemented in the state in June last year following the collapse of the PDP-BJP alliance. The State Assembly, initially kept in suspended animation was dissolved by Governor Satya Pal Malik in November.

Rajya Sabha approves statutory resolution to extend President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir for 6 months

Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Ram Gopal Yadav on Monday, while speaking in Rajya Sabha, said that the party will support the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-approves-extension-of-presidents-rule-in-jk-for-another-six-months-231201">extension of President's Rule in Jammu &amp; Kashmir</a>.&nbsp;

Trinamool Congress and Biju Janata Dal have also followed suit, stating that the parties will support in Rajya Sabha the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019 and extension of President Rule in the state, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

The President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir is ending tomorrow and will further be extended by six more months as recently announced by the Central government.&nbsp;

On June 28, Lok Sabha approved the statutory resolution to extend President's Rule in Jammu &amp; Kashmir with effect from July 3rd, 2019.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah had moved a resolution earlier in the lower house and had said that the extension was essential to facilitate fresh Assembly elections in the state later this year.

The move was opposed by scores of regional parties as well as national parties including the Congress. Former J&amp;K Chief Minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah criticised Shah’s argument in the House as an "unacceptable one".&nbsp;

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Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Ram Gopal Yadav announces in Rajya Sabha that the party will support the extension by 6 months of the President's rule in Jammu &amp; Kashmir which is ending tomorrow <a href="https://t.co/o2uACCQcpZ">pic.twitter.com/o2uACCQcpZ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1145624744672268288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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“So the Home Minister’s argument is that because the Congress has used Article 356 more times than anyone else the Modi government is justified in denying the people of J&amp;K an elected government. That’s an unacceptable argument,” Abdullah had tweeted.

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So the Home Minister’s argument is that because the Congress has used Article 356 more times than anyone else the Modi government is justified in denying the people of J&amp;K an elected government. That’s an unacceptable argument. <a href="https://t.co/IOsi9aUIKT">https://t.co/IOsi9aUIKT</a>
— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) <a href="https://twitter.com/OmarAbdullah/status/1144545518086807552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Congress strongly opposed the extension, blaming the "incompatible" alliance of BJP and PDP for the current security situation in the state.

"Today the situation is such that we have to extend the President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir for every six months. Its roots are in the incompatible alliance of PDP and BJP in 2015," Congress leader Manish Tewari said in the Lok Sabha on June 28.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Shah on Monday said the government has no other option but to extend President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir as the Election Commission wants to hold Assembly elections in the state by the end of 2019.

He was speaking in Rajya Sabha after moving a statutory resolution to extend President's Rule for another six months, starting July 3.&nbsp;

He also moved the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill that proposes to provide reservation to people living in the areas along the border with Pakistan on par with residents of areas near the Line of Actual Control.

The President's Rule was implemented in the state in June last year following the collapse of the PDP-BJP alliance. The State Assembly, initially kept in suspended animation was dissolved by Governor Satya Pal Malik in November.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Ram Gopal Yadav on Monday, while speaking in Rajya Sabha, said that the party will support the extension of President's Rule in Jammu & Kashmir.

Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Ram Gopal Yadav on Monday, while speaking in Rajya Sabha, said that the party will support the extension of President's Rule in Jammu & Kashmir. Trinamool Congress and Biju Janata Dal have also followed suit, stating that the parties will support in Rajya Sabha the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019 and extension of President Rule in the state, news agency ANI reported. The President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir is ending tomorrow and will further be extended by six more months as recently announced by the Central government. On June 28, Lok Sabha approved the statutory resolution to extend President's Rule in Jammu & Kashmir with effect from July 3rd, 2019. Union Home Minister Amit Shah had moved a resolution earlier in the lower house and had said that the extension was essential to facilitate fresh Assembly elections in the state later this year. The move was opposed by scores of regional parties as well as national parties including the Congress. Former J&K Chief Minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah criticised Shah’s argument in the House as an "unacceptable one". Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Ram Gopal Yadav announces in Rajya Sabha that the party will support the extension by 6 months of the President's rule in Jammu & Kashmir which is ending tomorrow pic.twitter.com/o2uACCQcpZ — ANI (@ANI) July 1, 2019 × “So the Home Minister’s argument is that because the Congress has used Article 356 more times than anyone else the Modi government is justified in denying the people of J&K an elected government. That’s an unacceptable argument,” Abdullah had tweeted. So the Home Minister’s argument is that because the Congress has used Article 356 more times than anyone else the Modi government is justified in denying the people of J&K an elected government. That’s an unacceptable argument. https://t.co/IOsi9aUIKT — Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) June 28, 2019 × The Congress strongly opposed the extension, blaming the "incompatible" alliance of BJP and PDP for the current security situation in the state. "Today the situation is such that we have to extend the President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir for every six months. Its roots are in the incompatible alliance of PDP and BJP in 2015," Congress leader Manish Tewari said in the Lok Sabha on June 28. Meanwhile, Shah on Monday said the government has no other option but to extend President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir as the Election Commission wants to hold Assembly elections in the state by the end of 2019. He was speaking in Rajya Sabha after moving a statutory resolution to extend President's Rule for another six months, starting July 3. He also moved the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill that proposes to provide reservation to people living in the areas along the border with Pakistan on par with residents of areas near the Line of Actual Control. The President's Rule was implemented in the state in June last year following the collapse of the PDP-BJP alliance. The State Assembly, initially kept in suspended animation was dissolved by Governor Satya Pal Malik in November. (With inputs from ANI)

Samajwadi Party, Trinamool Congress, Biju Janata Dal to support extension of President's Rule in Jammu & Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir governor Satya Pal Malik announced ex-gratia of Rs 5 Lakh each to the next of the kin of the deceased and Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar accident on Sunday.

At least 35 people lost their lives in Kishtwar district after a minibus fell into a gorge while it was travelling from Keshwan. Seventeen people have also been injured in the incident and are now being treated in a nearby hospital.

The incident took place after the driver of the minibus lost control and the vehicle fell into a gorge.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolence to the families of the deceased and said that the accident is "heart-wrenching".

"The accident in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar is heart-wrenching. We mourn all those who lost their lives and express condolences to the bereaved families. May the injured recover at the earliest," PM Modi said on Twitter.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that he is "extremely saddened" by the incident and will "pray for the speedy recovery" of those who were injured.

"Extremely saddened to learn about the loss of lives due to a road accident in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir," Amit Shah said, adding, "My deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones."&nbsp;

"I pray of the speedy recovery of those injured," he also said.

Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti also offered her condolences and tweeted, " Saddened to hear about the tragic accident in Kishtwar. Deepest condolences to families of the bereaved".

Omar Abdullah, Jammu &amp; Kashmir National Conference leader, also condoled the accident and offered prayers for the swift recovery of the injured through his Twitter account.

"Terrible news coming in about the high death toll in a bus accident in Kishtwar. Condolences to the families of the deceased &amp; prayers for the swift recovery of the injured," he tweeted.

Jammu and Kashmir governor Satya Pal Malik announced ex-gratia of Rs 5 Lakh each to the next of the kin of the deceased and Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar accident on Sunday.

Jammu and Kashmir governor Satya Pal Malik announced ex-gratia of Rs 5 Lakh each to the next of the kin of the deceased and Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar accident on Sunday. At least 35 people lost their lives in Kishtwar district after a minibus fell into a gorge while it was travelling from Keshwan. Seventeen people have also been injured in the incident and are now being treated in a nearby hospital. The incident took place after the driver of the minibus lost control and the vehicle fell into a gorge. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolence to the families of the deceased and said that the accident is "heart-wrenching". "The accident in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar is heart-wrenching. We mourn all those who lost their lives and express condolences to the bereaved families. May the injured recover at the earliest," PM Modi said on Twitter. Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that he is "extremely saddened" by the incident and will "pray for the speedy recovery" of those who were injured. "Extremely saddened to learn about the loss of lives due to a road accident in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir," Amit Shah said, adding, "My deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones." "I pray of the speedy recovery of those injured," he also said. Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti also offered her condolences and tweeted, " Saddened to hear about the tragic accident in Kishtwar. Deepest condolences to families of the bereaved". Omar Abdullah, Jammu & Kashmir National Conference leader, also condoled the accident and offered prayers for the swift recovery of the injured through his Twitter account. "Terrible news coming in about the high death toll in a bus accident in Kishtwar. Condolences to the families of the deceased & prayers for the swift recovery of the injured," he tweeted.

Kishtwar accident: Jammu & Kashmir governor Satya Pal Malik announces ex-gratia of 5 Lakh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" will resume today almost a month after the PM returned to power.

This will be the first 'Mann ki Baat'&nbsp;programme in Modi's second consecutive term as the Prime Minister.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to listen to the radio programme with other party workers at the Kakrola stadium in Dwarka.

Enthused by stunning performance in the Lok Sabha elections, the BJP is planning to take Prime Minister Narendra Modi's monthly radio programme to more people this time by making special arrangements and utilising all possible means.

In order to ensure that more and more people listen to Modi's radio programme, the party cadres at all levels have been directed to ensure better facilities such as better radio sets to attract more people to the programme.

The PM had last spoken on the radio programme in the episode which aired in February this year.

He had expressed confidence of the BJP-led NDA's victory in the Lok Sabha elections and said the programme will return after the polls.

On June 15, Modi said the programme was going to resume on June 30 at 11:00 am in a tweet.

"30th June, Sunday at 11:00 AM...We will meet once again, thanks to the radio, share joy, positivity and celebrate the collective strength of 130 crore Indians. I am sure you have lots to say for #MannKiBaat. Share it on the NaMo App Open Forum," Modi tweeted.

Many BJP leaders have also planned to listen to 'Mann Ki Baat'&nbsp;programme by sitting with the people and party workers.

The programme broadcasts on the last Sunday of the month and suggestions, stories and ideas are invited from people for it.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" will resume today almost a month after the PM returned to power. This will be the first 'Mann ki Baat' programme in Modi's second consecutive term as the Prime Minister.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" will resume today almost a month after the PM returned to power. This will be the first 'Mann ki Baat' programme in Modi's second consecutive term as the Prime Minister. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to listen to the radio programme with other party workers at the Kakrola stadium in Dwarka. Enthused by stunning performance in the Lok Sabha elections, the BJP is planning to take Prime Minister Narendra Modi's monthly radio programme to more people this time by making special arrangements and utilising all possible means. In order to ensure that more and more people listen to Modi's radio programme, the party cadres at all levels have been directed to ensure better facilities such as better radio sets to attract more people to the programme. The PM had last spoken on the radio programme in the episode which aired in February this year. He had expressed confidence of the BJP-led NDA's victory in the Lok Sabha elections and said the programme will return after the polls. On June 15, Modi said the programme was going to resume on June 30 at 11:00 am in a tweet. "30th June, Sunday at 11:00 AM...We will meet once again, thanks to the radio, share joy, positivity and celebrate the collective strength of 130 crore Indians. I am sure you have lots to say for #MannKiBaat. Share it on the NaMo App Open Forum," Modi tweeted. Many BJP leaders have also planned to listen to 'Mann Ki Baat' programme by sitting with the people and party workers. The programme broadcasts on the last Sunday of the month and suggestions, stories and ideas are invited from people for it.

First 'Mann ki Baat' after Modi's return to power to air today

A clear 'chain of command' should be in place when multiple stakeholders get on-board to combat a disaster and government agencies should ensure that India becomes a top-notch nation for managing such emergencies, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said Saturday.&nbsp;

Officiating his first public event after taking charge of the ministry, Shah said it is important to quickly develop better resilience and capability against disasters given that India is much prone to catastrophes owing to its varied topography and expanse.

The minister was speaking at the inauguration of a two-day annual conference organised here by the NDRF on capacity building of state disaster response forces (SDRFs) in consultation with home guards, civil defence and fire services.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is a federal force of the country and has 12 battalions based across various states for quick response to any emergency, manmade or natural.

Addressing the delegates at the meeting Shah said a chain of command between various agencies, stakeholders and department should be decided and formed when dealing with a disaster.

"This is very important as I have seen a very chaotic situation emerging in absence of this protocol and order of hierarchy," he said, adding it is a big lacuna in the country's bureaucratic system that no one pays heed to the other till a formal or official order is issued.

The minister said agencies like the NDRF should not rest on their past laurels but strive to do better.

"This is now the time to work and ensure that India becomes the number one country in disaster management. The path to achieving this goal is long but that should be our target. It should be our effort that the world takes note from our best practices and counter-disaster models," Shah said.

He said the NDRF and other similar agencies should "investigate, analyse and pick errors" once they complete operation, as this exercise will ensure that the work is completed in the true sense.

Shah asked the NDRF, an agency under his ministry, to collaborate with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and develop indigenous equipment to combat disaster not only for Indian agencies but also for neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

The Home Minister assured the 12,000 personnel-strong force that the government will fulfil all their requirements for modern gadgets, equipment and infrastructure.

"It is very important to ensure that the motivation of the force's personnel working at the ground level remains high. It is they who commit their lives in the line of duty," Shah said.&nbsp;

He expressed concerns over increasing instances of forest fires, especially in the hills, and stressed upon the NDRF and its sister agencies to find out ways to effectively combat such instances.

He asked the agencies working in this domain to compile data of all disaster-combat equipment in the country, down to the district level, so that this information comes handy when a disaster strikes.

The minister said disaster management and combat was a "completely neglected" issue before 2000 and was taken only seriously after the 2001 earthquake in Gujarat's Bhuj.

At the event, NDRF Director General (DG) S N Pradhan said his force will be able to have its presence in virtually every part of the country by August and they were also working to have a women personnel combat component in every unit.&nbsp;

A clear 'chain of command' should be in place when multiple stakeholders get on-board to combat a disaster and government agencies should ensure that India becomes a top-notch nation for managing such emergencies, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said Saturday.

A clear 'chain of command' should be in place when multiple stakeholders get on-board to combat a disaster and government agencies should ensure that India becomes a top-notch nation for managing such emergencies, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said Saturday. Officiating his first public event after taking charge of the ministry, Shah said it is important to quickly develop better resilience and capability against disasters given that India is much prone to catastrophes owing to its varied topography and expanse. The minister was speaking at the inauguration of a two-day annual conference organised here by the NDRF on capacity building of state disaster response forces (SDRFs) in consultation with home guards, civil defence and fire services. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is a federal force of the country and has 12 battalions based across various states for quick response to any emergency, manmade or natural. Addressing the delegates at the meeting Shah said a chain of command between various agencies, stakeholders and department should be decided and formed when dealing with a disaster. "This is very important as I have seen a very chaotic situation emerging in absence of this protocol and order of hierarchy," he said, adding it is a big lacuna in the country's bureaucratic system that no one pays heed to the other till a formal or official order is issued. The minister said agencies like the NDRF should not rest on their past laurels but strive to do better. "This is now the time to work and ensure that India becomes the number one country in disaster management. The path to achieving this goal is long but that should be our target. It should be our effort that the world takes note from our best practices and counter-disaster models," Shah said. He said the NDRF and other similar agencies should "investigate, analyse and pick errors" once they complete operation, as this exercise will ensure that the work is completed in the true sense. Shah asked the NDRF, an agency under his ministry, to collaborate with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and develop indigenous equipment to combat disaster not only for Indian agencies but also for neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. The Home Minister assured the 12,000 personnel-strong force that the government will fulfil all their requirements for modern gadgets, equipment and infrastructure. "It is very important to ensure that the motivation of the force's personnel working at the ground level remains high. It is they who commit their lives in the line of duty," Shah said. He expressed concerns over increasing instances of forest fires, especially in the hills, and stressed upon the NDRF and its sister agencies to find out ways to effectively combat such instances. He asked the agencies working in this domain to compile data of all disaster-combat equipment in the country, down to the district level, so that this information comes handy when a disaster strikes. The minister said disaster management and combat was a "completely neglected" issue before 2000 and was taken only seriously after the 2001 earthquake in Gujarat's Bhuj. At the event, NDRF Director General (DG) S N Pradhan said his force will be able to have its presence in virtually every part of the country by August and they were also working to have a women personnel combat component in every unit.

Ensure India is number 1 in disaster management: Amit Shah

India Watch, 28th June 2019

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said Article 370 is only a temporary provision and not a permanent one in the Lok Sabha. Watch this video to know more.

India Watch: Amit Shah's big message on Article 370

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday moved a statutory resolution in the Lok Sabha to extend President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir for a period of six months. Watch this video to know more.

India Watch: President's rule to be extended in J&K

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-protests-chinas-army-to-be-handed-prime-harbour-in-hong-kong-231230">Amid protests, China's Army to be handed prime harbour in Hong Kong</a>

The Chinese military will be handed prime Hong Kong waterfront land on Saturday, even as the city is&nbsp;rocked by anti-Beijing protests&nbsp;and just days before the anniversary of its return to China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-time-hottest-temperature-in-france-recorded-at-443c-weather-service-231244">All-time hottest temperature in France recorded at 44.3C: Weather service</a>

France recorded its all-time hottest temperature of 44.3 degrees Celsius (111.7 degrees Fahrenheit) on Friday as the country and much of Europe basked in an&nbsp;early summer heatwave, state weather forecaster Meteo-France said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-will-target-root-of-terrorism-inside-pakistan-balakot-strikes-not-a-fluke-home-minister-amit-shah-in-lok-sabha-231174">We will target root of terrorism inside Pakistan, Balakot strikes not a fluke: Home Minister Amit Shah in Lok Sabha</a>

After PM Modi lashed out at&nbsp;Congress in Parliament, Home minister Amit Shah today hit out at Congress over the Jammu and Kashmir(J&amp;K) issue in Lok Sabha. "Congress weakened democracy in J&amp;K," India's home minister said, adding, "separatists have hurt democracy".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-talks-with-world-leaders-at-g20-pm-modi-discusses-indo-pacific-terrorism-situation-in-gulf-231173">In talks with world leaders at G20, PM Modi discusses Indo-Pacific, terrorism, situation in Gulf</a>

Even by diplomatic standards,&nbsp;the first day of the G20 Summit&nbsp;was not only hectic but showed how India was a sought after country at the event in Osaka. The two trilaterals - JAI - between Japan, America, India and RIC - between Russia, India, China showed how India was the common factor in the two groupings.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europes-heatwave-consistent-with-climate-change-more-to-come-un-231226">Europe's heatwave consistent with climate change, more to come: UN</a>

This year is on track to be among the hottest ever and that would make 2015-2019 the world's hottest five-year period on record, the World Meteorological Organization said on Friday.

Amid protests, China's Army to be handed prime harbour in Hong Kong The Chinese military will be handed prime Hong Kong waterfront land on Saturday, even as the city is rocked by anti-Beijing protests and just days before the anniversary of its return to China.

Amid protests, China's Army to be handed prime harbour in Hong Kong The Chinese military will be handed prime Hong Kong waterfront land on Saturday, even as the city is rocked by anti-Beijing protests and just days before the anniversary of its return to China. All-time hottest temperature in France recorded at 44.3C: Weather service France recorded its all-time hottest temperature of 44.3 degrees Celsius (111.7 degrees Fahrenheit) on Friday as the country and much of Europe basked in an early summer heatwave, state weather forecaster Meteo-France said. We will target root of terrorism inside Pakistan, Balakot strikes not a fluke: Home Minister Amit Shah in Lok Sabha After PM Modi lashed out at Congress in Parliament, Home minister Amit Shah today hit out at Congress over the Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) issue in Lok Sabha. "Congress weakened democracy in J&K," India's home minister said, adding, "separatists have hurt democracy". In talks with world leaders at G20, PM Modi discusses Indo-Pacific, terrorism, situation in Gulf Even by diplomatic standards, the first day of the G20 Summit was not only hectic but showed how India was a sought after country at the event in Osaka. The two trilaterals - JAI - between Japan, America, India and RIC - between Russia, India, China showed how India was the common factor in the two groupings. Europe's heatwave consistent with climate change, more to come: UN This year is on track to be among the hottest ever and that would make 2015-2019 the world's hottest five-year period on record, the World Meteorological Organization said on Friday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Home Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-will-target-root-of-terrorism-inside-pakistan-balakot-strikes-not-a-fluke-home-minister-amit-shah-in-lok-sabha-231174">Amit Shah</a> said in Parliament on Friday that assembly elections in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-approves-extension-of-presidents-rule-in-jk-for-another-six-months-231201">Jammu and Kashmir</a> will be held in a democratic, free and fair manner as soon as the Election Commission announces the dates.

He also told Lok Sabha that Article 370 of the Constitution which extends special status to Jammu and Kashmir, is "temporary in nature" and "not permanent".

In a scathing attack on the Congress, he said that Partition of India on the basis of religion was a "historical mistake" by then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.

The Home Minister also said that the present situation in Kashmir was the outcome of the misdeeds of Nehru who referred the issue of 'Accession of Kashmir to India' to the United Nations and proclaimed Article 370 there.

"Article 370 is effective only in Jammu and Kashmir, which was negotiated by the then Prime Minister," Shah said.

"One-third of Jammu and Kashmir is not with us. Who is responsible for it? Who called for ceasefire back then? It was Jawaharlal Nehru who did it and gave that portion (PoK) to Pakistan. You say we don't take people into confidence, but Nehruji did it without taking the then Home Minister into confidence," he said.

Shah said if the then Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was taken into confidence, the entire Kashmir had been part of India.

He also said that Sardar Patel led the accession of most of the princely states including Hyderabad and Junagarh and both are today part of India.

"The country is suffering due to his (Nehru's) mistakes. Thousands of people were killed in Partition and terrorism spread across the country," he said.

Shah's remarks led to verbal spat between the Opposition and the treasury benches with the Congress leaders objecting to the continued reference of Nehru by Shah.

Home Minister Amit Shah said in Parliament on Friday that assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir will be held in a democratic, free and fair manner as soon as the Election Commission announces the dates.

Home Minister Amit Shah said in Parliament on Friday that assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir will be held in a democratic, free and fair manner as soon as the Election Commission announces the dates. He also told Lok Sabha that Article 370 of the Constitution which extends special status to Jammu and Kashmir, is "temporary in nature" and "not permanent". In a scathing attack on the Congress, he said that Partition of India on the basis of religion was a "historical mistake" by then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. The Home Minister also said that the present situation in Kashmir was the outcome of the misdeeds of Nehru who referred the issue of 'Accession of Kashmir to India' to the United Nations and proclaimed Article 370 there. "Article 370 is effective only in Jammu and Kashmir, which was negotiated by the then Prime Minister," Shah said. "One-third of Jammu and Kashmir is not with us. Who is responsible for it? Who called for ceasefire back then? It was Jawaharlal Nehru who did it and gave that portion (PoK) to Pakistan. You say we don't take people into confidence, but Nehruji did it without taking the then Home Minister into confidence," he said. Shah said if the then Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was taken into confidence, the entire Kashmir had been part of India. He also said that Sardar Patel led the accession of most of the princely states including Hyderabad and Junagarh and both are today part of India. "The country is suffering due to his (Nehru's) mistakes. Thousands of people were killed in Partition and terrorism spread across the country," he said. Shah's remarks led to verbal spat between the Opposition and the treasury benches with the Congress leaders objecting to the continued reference of Nehru by Shah.

Article 370 not permanent: Home Minister Amit Shah in Parliament

After PM Modi lashed out at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-cant-accept-defeats-not-a-healthy-sign-in-democracy-pm-narendra-modi-in-rajya-sabha-230582">Congress in Parliament</a>, Home minister Amit Shah today hit out at Congress over the Jammu and Kashmir(J&amp;K) issue in Lok Sabha.

"Congress weakened democracy in J&amp;K," India's home minister said, adding, "separatists have hurt democracy".

"Narendra Modi government has has zero tolerance for terror," he told the members in Lok Sabha.

"Congress too had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/home-minister-amit-shah-seeks-to-extend-presidents-rule-in-jammu-and-kashmir-polls-by-end-of-year-231108">imposed President's Rule in J&amp;K</a>," he informed the House. "So far Article 356 (President's Rule) has been imposed 132 times of 
which Congress used it 93 times."

"We have never used Article 356 for political purposes to dismiss state governments but the Congress has," he said while attacking the Congress.

"How long can Congress accuse us of murdering democracy?" he asked.

"We banned pro-Pak elements and hit back at terror camps after the Pulwama attack," he said in India's lower House.

"Why wasn't Jamaat-e-Islami banned till date? Who did you want to please? It was the BJP government that banned Jamaat-e-Islami. Who put the ban on JKLF? It was BJP who did it," he said.

"The security of 919 people in J&amp;K has been withdrawn after review by the government&nbsp;as they had no security threat," he said.

Amit Shah said the Balakot strikes were "not a fluke" asserting that the government was serious about uprooting terrorism. "Our ideology is to ensure protection of borders and make the country free of terrorism."

"Surgical strike and air strikes were carried out in India's self-defence,"&nbsp;the home minister told the Lok Sabha.

"Jawahar Lal Nehru created the J&amp;K problem," he added. "India lost one-third of Kashmir due to Nehru's decision."

"Who called for ceasefire back then? It was Jawaharlal Nehru who did it and gave that portion(PoK) to Pakistan. You say we don't take people into confidence, but Nehru did it without taking the then home minister into confidence. So Manish(Tewari) don't teach us history."

The Congress bench fumed as Amit Shah attacked India's former prime minister.

"Pakistan Occupied Kashmir(POK) could have been India's part."

After PM Modi lashed out at Congress in Parliament, Home minister Amit Shah today hit out at Congress over the Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) issue in Lok Sabha. "Congress weakened democracy in J&K," India's home minister said, adding, "separatists have hurt democracy".

After PM Modi lashed out at Congress in Parliament, Home minister Amit Shah today hit out at Congress over the Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) issue in Lok Sabha. "Congress weakened democracy in J&K," India's home minister said, adding, "separatists have hurt democracy". "Narendra Modi government has has zero tolerance for terror," he told the members in Lok Sabha. "Congress too had imposed President's Rule in J&K," he informed the House. "So far Article 356 (President's Rule) has been imposed 132 times of which Congress used it 93 times." "We have never used Article 356 for political purposes to dismiss state governments but the Congress has," he said while attacking the Congress. "How long can Congress accuse us of murdering democracy?" he asked. "We banned pro-Pak elements and hit back at terror camps after the Pulwama attack," he said in India's lower House. "Why wasn't Jamaat-e-Islami banned till date? Who did you want to please? It was the BJP government that banned Jamaat-e-Islami. Who put the ban on JKLF? It was BJP who did it," he said. "The security of 919 people in J&K has been withdrawn after review by the government as they had no security threat," he said. Amit Shah said the Balakot strikes were "not a fluke" asserting that the government was serious about uprooting terrorism. "Our ideology is to ensure protection of borders and make the country free of terrorism." "Surgical strike and air strikes were carried out in India's self-defence," the home minister told the Lok Sabha. "Jawahar Lal Nehru created the J&K problem," he added. "India lost one-third of Kashmir due to Nehru's decision." "Who called for ceasefire back then? It was Jawaharlal Nehru who did it and gave that portion(PoK) to Pakistan. You say we don't take people into confidence, but Nehru did it without taking the then home minister into confidence. So Manish(Tewari) don't teach us history." The Congress bench fumed as Amit Shah attacked India's former prime minister. "Pakistan Occupied Kashmir(POK) could have been India's part."

We will target root of terrorism inside Pakistan, Balakot strikes not a fluke: Home Minister Amit Shah in Lok Sabha

Lok Sabha today approved the statutory resolution to extend <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-will-target-root-of-terrorism-inside-pakistan-balakot-strikes-not-a-fluke-home-minister-amit-shah-in-lok-sabha-231174">President's Rule in Jammu &amp; Kashmir(J&amp;K)</a> for a further period of six months with effect from July 3rd, 2019.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah had moved a resolution earlier in the lower house to extend President's Rule in J&amp;K. Amit Shah had said that to hold fresh Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir later this year, it was essential to extend the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/home-minister-amit-shah-seeks-to-extend-presidents-rule-in-jammu-and-kashmir-polls-by-end-of-year-231108">President's Rule from July 3</a>.

Moving the resolution, India's home minister said since the state assembly has been dissolved and the Election Commission has decided to hold fresh elections in Jammu and Kashmir later this year.

Shah asserted&nbsp;that assembly elections in the state will be held in a democratic, free and fair manner as soon as the Election Commission announces the dates.

He also told Lok Sabha that Article 370 of the Constitution which extends special status to Jammu and Kashmir, is "temporary in nature" and "not permanent".

The Lok Sabha also cleared the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019, to replace an ordinance issued by the previous government.

People living along the International Border (IB) in Jammu and Kashmir will get benefits of reservation in direct recruitment, promotion and admission in professional courses on par with those living along the Actual Line of Control (ALoC), according to the bill.

(Inputs: PTI, ANI) 
&nbsp;

Lok Sabha today approved the statutory resolution to extend President's Rule in Jammu & Kashmir(J&K) for a further period of six months with effect from July 3rd, 2019.

Lok Sabha today approved the statutory resolution to extend President's Rule in Jammu & Kashmir(J&K) for a further period of six months with effect from July 3rd, 2019. Union Home Minister Amit Shah had moved a resolution earlier in the lower house to extend President's Rule in J&K. Amit Shah had said that to hold fresh Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir later this year, it was essential to extend the President's Rule from July 3. Moving the resolution, India's home minister said since the state assembly has been dissolved and the Election Commission has decided to hold fresh elections in Jammu and Kashmir later this year. Shah asserted that assembly elections in the state will be held in a democratic, free and fair manner as soon as the Election Commission announces the dates. He also told Lok Sabha that Article 370 of the Constitution which extends special status to Jammu and Kashmir, is "temporary in nature" and "not permanent". The Lok Sabha also cleared the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019, to replace an ordinance issued by the previous government. People living along the International Border (IB) in Jammu and Kashmir will get benefits of reservation in direct recruitment, promotion and admission in professional courses on par with those living along the Actual Line of Control (ALoC), according to the bill. (Inputs: PTI, ANI)

Lok Sabha approves extension of President's Rule in J&K for another six months

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/home-minister-amit-shah-visits-family-of-slain-jammu-kashmir-inspector-reviews-security-230758">Union Home Minister Amit Shah</a> on Friday moved a resolution in the Lok Sabha to extend the President's rule in Jammu and Kashmir for a period of another six months.

Amit Shah further said that to hold fresh Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir later this year, it is essential to extend the rule effective immediate from July 3, 2019.

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Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Lok Sabha: I propose that President's rule in Jammu and Kashmir should be extended by 6 months. <a href="https://t.co/agXlqYmP0H">pic.twitter.com/agXlqYmP0H</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1144497741722079233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Speaking at the Lok Sabha, Shah said, ''In the view of Ramzan and Amarnath Yatra in Jammu and Kashmir, preparations are underway to hold Assembly elections by the end of this year.''

The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly was dissolved in November.

The home minister also moved the J&amp;K Reservation Bill in Lok Sabha and said, ''This bill is not to please anyone but for those living near the International Border."

The bill proposes to give reservation in educational institutions and government jobs to those living within 10 kilometres of the International Border in Jammu on par with people living along the Line of Control in Kashmir.

This is the first proposal Shah has moved in the Lok Sabha after being appointed as the home minister in the second tenure of the Narendra Modi government.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday moved a resolution in the Lok Sabha to extend the President's rule in Jammu and Kashmir for a period of another six months.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday moved a resolution in the Lok Sabha to extend the President's rule in Jammu and Kashmir for a period of another six months. Amit Shah further said that to hold fresh Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir later this year, it is essential to extend the rule effective immediate from July 3, 2019. Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Lok Sabha: I propose that President's rule in Jammu and Kashmir should be extended by 6 months. pic.twitter.com/agXlqYmP0H — ANI (@ANI) June 28, 2019 × Speaking at the Lok Sabha, Shah said, ''In the view of Ramzan and Amarnath Yatra in Jammu and Kashmir, preparations are underway to hold Assembly elections by the end of this year.'' The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly was dissolved in November. The home minister also moved the J&K Reservation Bill in Lok Sabha and said, ''This bill is not to please anyone but for those living near the International Border." The bill proposes to give reservation in educational institutions and government jobs to those living within 10 kilometres of the International Border in Jammu on par with people living along the Line of Control in Kashmir. This is the first proposal Shah has moved in the Lok Sabha after being appointed as the home minister in the second tenure of the Narendra Modi government.

Home Minister Amit Shah seeks to extend President's rule in Jammu and Kashmir; polls by end of year

Watch India Watch, 27th June 2019. To know more watch the video

India Watch, 27th June 2019

Home minister Amit Shah is on a two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir. On Wednesday, he held an extensive review meeting with security forces to discuss arrangements for Amarnath Yatra. He reviewed the development scenario in Jammu and Kashmir and sought the state government's focus on accelerating development, building infrastructure, good governance, inclusive growth for all communities and employment generating schemes for the youth.

India Watch: Amit Shah's Kashmir visit; Day 2

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday met the family members of Jammu and Kashmir Police inspector Arshad Ahmed Khan, who was killed in a terror attack.

Arshad Khan, SHO Anantnag, was killed on June 12 when a lone Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)terrorist targeted a patrol team of the paramilitary force. Five CRPF personnel were killed and three others were injured in the terror attack. 
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Jammu &amp; Kashmir: Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Srinagar meets family of SHO Anantnag Arshad Khan who lost his life in a terror attack on June 12. <a href="https://t.co/KKeCl6k5NT">pic.twitter.com/KKeCl6k5NT</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1144106001215262720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Khan was rushed to AIIMS in Delhi where he succumbed to his injuries during the treatment. 
 
Shah&nbsp;handed over an appointment letter to his wife for a job in the State Government.&nbsp;

This is for the first time that a Home Minister has visited the family of any cop killed in a terror attack in J&amp;K. The move is also being seen as a huge morale booster for the Jammu and Kashmir police who have been at the forefront of the counter-insurgency operations in the state.&nbsp;

&nbsp;"The Union Home Minister directed that the government should commemorate the martyrdom of its policemen in their hometowns and villages in an appropriate manner each year. Prominent public places should also be named after martyred policemen," a statement said.&nbsp;

Shah also chaired a review meeting over law &amp; order situation in the state.&nbsp;He reviewed the overall security situation in the state with special emphasis on restoration of peace in Kashmir and counter-insurgency operations, the officials said.

"Union Home Minister, while appreciating the significant improvement in all the parameters relating to the security situation, directed that there should be continued strict action against terror funding. The Rule of Law should be enforced," an official from Home Ministry told media in Srinagar.&nbsp;

The meetings in Srinagar were attended by the Governor Satya Pal Malik, Union Home Secretary, all four Advisors, the Chief Secretary and Senior officials of the State and Central Governments, of Security Agencies and the Armed Forces.&nbsp;

The other meetings were also focused on development programmes and how to improve the lives of the common man. "The review covered a wide range of issues connected with improving the economic condition of the people of Jammu &amp; Kashmir, providing them with employment and livelihood opportunities, providing them the benefit of social security schemes, and raising their incomes," Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary BVR Subrahmanyam said at a press conference adding that he would review periodically the performance of the state on multiple fronts

Amit Shah also met the families of those BJP leaders who were killed by terrorists in several attacks. He also presented cheques to them and praised their courage. Shah also met representatives of Gujjar and Bakarwal community, Village heads and a BJP delegation from the state.&nbsp;

Home Minister also stressed on working towards signing an MOU with Amul or Mother Dairy and create a programme for ensuring that it becomes surplus in this sector. "The Handloom and Handicraft Sector is one of the brightest spots on J&amp;K’s economic landscape. The potential in this has not been fully captured. The growth of this sector would increase the employment and livelihoods of poor households," Chief Secretary informed media.&nbsp;

The minister is seemed to have taken a hard stand on the corruption in the state and directed newly formed Anti-Corruption bureau to take action against the guilty.

&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday met the family members of Jammu and Kashmir Police inspector Arshad Ahmed Khan, who was killed in a terror attack. Arshad Khan, SHO Anantnag, was killed on June 12 when a lone Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)terrorist targeted a patrol team of the paramilitary force.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday met the family members of Jammu and Kashmir Police inspector Arshad Ahmed Khan, who was killed in a terror attack. Arshad Khan, SHO Anantnag, was killed on June 12 when a lone Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)terrorist targeted a patrol team of the paramilitary force. Five CRPF personnel were killed and three others were injured in the terror attack. Jammu & Kashmir: Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Srinagar meets family of SHO Anantnag Arshad Khan who lost his life in a terror attack on June 12. pic.twitter.com/KKeCl6k5NT — ANI (@ANI) June 27, 2019 × Khan was rushed to AIIMS in Delhi where he succumbed to his injuries during the treatment. Shah handed over an appointment letter to his wife for a job in the State Government. This is for the first time that a Home Minister has visited the family of any cop killed in a terror attack in J&K. The move is also being seen as a huge morale booster for the Jammu and Kashmir police who have been at the forefront of the counter-insurgency operations in the state. "The Union Home Minister directed that the government should commemorate the martyrdom of its policemen in their hometowns and villages in an appropriate manner each year. Prominent public places should also be named after martyred policemen," a statement said. Shah also chaired a review meeting over law & order situation in the state. He reviewed the overall security situation in the state with special emphasis on restoration of peace in Kashmir and counter-insurgency operations, the officials said. "Union Home Minister, while appreciating the significant improvement in all the parameters relating to the security situation, directed that there should be continued strict action against terror funding. The Rule of Law should be enforced," an official from Home Ministry told media in Srinagar. The meetings in Srinagar were attended by the Governor Satya Pal Malik, Union Home Secretary, all four Advisors, the Chief Secretary and Senior officials of the State and Central Governments, of Security Agencies and the Armed Forces. The other meetings were also focused on development programmes and how to improve the lives of the common man. "The review covered a wide range of issues connected with improving the economic condition of the people of Jammu & Kashmir, providing them with employment and livelihood opportunities, providing them the benefit of social security schemes, and raising their incomes," Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary BVR Subrahmanyam said at a press conference adding that he would review periodically the performance of the state on multiple fronts Amit Shah also met the families of those BJP leaders who were killed by terrorists in several attacks. He also presented cheques to them and praised their courage. Shah also met representatives of Gujjar and Bakarwal community, Village heads and a BJP delegation from the state. Home Minister also stressed on working towards signing an MOU with Amul or Mother Dairy and create a programme for ensuring that it becomes surplus in this sector. "The Handloom and Handicraft Sector is one of the brightest spots on J&K’s economic landscape. The potential in this has not been fully captured. The growth of this sector would increase the employment and livelihoods of poor households," Chief Secretary informed media. The minister is seemed to have taken a hard stand on the corruption in the state and directed newly formed Anti-Corruption bureau to take action against the guilty.

Home Minister Amit Shah visits family of slain Jammu & Kashmir inspector, reviews security situation

Union Home Minister Amit Shah Amit Shah today visited Jammu and Kashmir to review the security situation ahead of Amarnath Yatra in the state.

The prime focus of Shah’s first visit to Kashmir is to secure the Amarnath Yatra from any terror attack, which has been a cause of worry for the governor administration.&nbsp;

“He directed all security agencies to be fully alert and take all preventive steps to ensure violence-free Yatra. There should be no laxity. Strict enforcement of the SOPs should be ensured. Senior officers should personally supervise the arrangements,” said A P Maheshwari, Special Secretary, Internal Security, Ministry of Home Affairs.&nbsp;

During the meeting, Shah has told security forces to ensure best possible optimum use of latest technologies and the gadgets, not only for the security of the Yatra but also to facilitate the movement of the devotees and the tourists.

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Srinagar: Union Home Minister Amit Shah chairs review meeting on security arrangements for upcoming <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmarnathYatra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmarnathYatra</a> at Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC); Jammu &amp; Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik also present. <a href="https://t.co/jntLDKaymR">pic.twitter.com/jntLDKaymR</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1143836026273587200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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“After the cut-off timings barricades should be erected at suitable locations and no differentiation should be made between Yatris and Tourists. Barricades are used at all lateral entry points during convoy movement,” Maheshwari told reporters after the meeting.&nbsp;

Home Minister has also directed police and paramilitary forces to strictly deal with the miscreants.&nbsp;

At the Amarnath security meeting, top officials from the intelligence bureau, Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir police gave him detailed information on the prevailing situation.

&nbsp;The Yatra is starting from 1st of July and has been a major worry for the forces after 12 June Anantnag attack on joint forces. The route has been frequently used by terrorists to carry out attacks.&nbsp;

After reviewing the situation, he also took stock of the development process in the state which has been done over the years. He has also reviewed the major flagship programmes of the central government such.&nbsp;

“82% funds have been sanctions for several major projects like two AIIMS, two IIM, tourism, power and other projects,” an official informed media.&nbsp;

Interestingly, sources say that this is for the first time that local political parties haven’t received an invitation to meet the home ministers. They say that political parties were expecting the invitation to put forward their point.&nbsp;

On day two, Shah will review the overall security situation and meet some more delegates.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah Amit Shah today visited Jammu and Kashmir to review the security situation ahead of Amarnath Yatra in the state. The prime focus of Shah’s first visit to Kashmir is to secure the Amarnath Yatra from any terror attack, which has been a cause of worry for the governor administration.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah Amit Shah today visited Jammu and Kashmir to review the security situation ahead of Amarnath Yatra in the state. The prime focus of Shah’s first visit to Kashmir is to secure the Amarnath Yatra from any terror attack, which has been a cause of worry for the governor administration. “He directed all security agencies to be fully alert and take all preventive steps to ensure violence-free Yatra. There should be no laxity. Strict enforcement of the SOPs should be ensured. Senior officers should personally supervise the arrangements,” said A P Maheshwari, Special Secretary, Internal Security, Ministry of Home Affairs. During the meeting, Shah has told security forces to ensure best possible optimum use of latest technologies and the gadgets, not only for the security of the Yatra but also to facilitate the movement of the devotees and the tourists. Srinagar: Union Home Minister Amit Shah chairs review meeting on security arrangements for upcoming #AmarnathYatra at Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC); Jammu & Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik also present. pic.twitter.com/jntLDKaymR — ANI (@ANI) June 26, 2019 × “After the cut-off timings barricades should be erected at suitable locations and no differentiation should be made between Yatris and Tourists. Barricades are used at all lateral entry points during convoy movement,” Maheshwari told reporters after the meeting. Home Minister has also directed police and paramilitary forces to strictly deal with the miscreants. At the Amarnath security meeting, top officials from the intelligence bureau, Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir police gave him detailed information on the prevailing situation. The Yatra is starting from 1st of July and has been a major worry for the forces after 12 June Anantnag attack on joint forces. The route has been frequently used by terrorists to carry out attacks. After reviewing the situation, he also took stock of the development process in the state which has been done over the years. He has also reviewed the major flagship programmes of the central government such. “82% funds have been sanctions for several major projects like two AIIMS, two IIM, tourism, power and other projects,” an official informed media. Interestingly, sources say that this is for the first time that local political parties haven’t received an invitation to meet the home ministers. They say that political parties were expecting the invitation to put forward their point. On day two, Shah will review the overall security situation and meet some more delegates.

Home Minister Amit Shah reviews security preparations for Amarnath Yatra, gives strong directions to security forces

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday arrived in Srinagar on a two-day visit to the state.

Immediately after his arrival, the Home Minister chaired a high-level meeting of civil administration officials and top bosses of various security agencies in the state, the officials said.

J&amp;K Governor Satya Pal Malik, his advisor in charge Home Affairs K Vijay Kumar, Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba, state Chief Secretary B V R Subrahmanyam, Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh, DGP Dilbagh Singh and divisional commissioners from the Valley and Jammu were present in the meeting.

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Srinagar: Union Home Minister Amit Shah chairs review meeting on security arrangements for upcoming <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmarnathYatra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmarnathYatra</a> at Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC); Jammu &amp; Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik also present. <a href="https://t.co/jntLDKaymR">pic.twitter.com/jntLDKaymR</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1143836026273587200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Home Minister was briefed about the overall security situation in the state, especially in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack in which over 40 CRPF personnel were killed, the officials said.

The officials also informed Shah about various steps taken to eliminate the top militant leadership, while ensuring that the ultras are not able to carry out Pulwama-like attacks, they said.

Shah was also briefed about the steps taken for ensuring the smooth and safe conduct of the annual Amarnath Yatra, which is due to commence on July 1, the officials said.

He is also scheduled to meet the families of policemen killed in militant attacks in the state.

Earlier this month, Shah chaired&nbsp;a high-level security meeting to take stock of internal security in the country and the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, which was attended by National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and the Intelligence Bureau chief.

The Home Minister has asserted that the policy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government of zero tolerance towards terrorism will continue in Jammu and Kashmir.

(With inputs from agencies)

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday arrived in Srinagar on a two-day visit to the state. Immediately after his arrival, the Home Minister chaired a high-level meeting of civil administration officials and top bosses of various security agencies in the state, the officials said.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday arrived in Srinagar on a two-day visit to the state. Immediately after his arrival, the Home Minister chaired a high-level meeting of civil administration officials and top bosses of various security agencies in the state, the officials said. J&K Governor Satya Pal Malik, his advisor in charge Home Affairs K Vijay Kumar, Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba, state Chief Secretary B V R Subrahmanyam, Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh, DGP Dilbagh Singh and divisional commissioners from the Valley and Jammu were present in the meeting. Srinagar: Union Home Minister Amit Shah chairs review meeting on security arrangements for upcoming #AmarnathYatra at Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC); Jammu & Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik also present. pic.twitter.com/jntLDKaymR — ANI (@ANI) June 26, 2019 × The Home Minister was briefed about the overall security situation in the state, especially in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack in which over 40 CRPF personnel were killed, the officials said. The officials also informed Shah about various steps taken to eliminate the top militant leadership, while ensuring that the ultras are not able to carry out Pulwama-like attacks, they said. Shah was also briefed about the steps taken for ensuring the smooth and safe conduct of the annual Amarnath Yatra, which is due to commence on July 1, the officials said. He is also scheduled to meet the families of policemen killed in militant attacks in the state. Earlier this month, Shah chaired a high-level security meeting to take stock of internal security in the country and the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, which was attended by National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and the Intelligence Bureau chief. The Home Minister has asserted that the policy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government of zero tolerance towards terrorism will continue in Jammu and Kashmir. (With inputs from agencies)

Home Minister Amit Shah arrives in Srinagar, reviews security situation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid homage&nbsp;to people who resisted the Emergency imposed by the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on this day in 1975.

"India salutes all those greats who fiercely and fearlessly resisted the Emergency. India's democratic ethos successfully prevailed over an authoritarian mindset," he tweeted with a short video. 
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India salutes all those greats who fiercely and fearlessly resisted the Emergency. 
 
India’s democratic ethos successfully prevailed over an authoritarian mindset. <a href="https://t.co/vUS6HYPbT5">pic.twitter.com/vUS6HYPbT5</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1143362212335144960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Home minister Amit Shah also recalled how people were deprived of their fundamental rights during the Emergency. "It was on this day in 1975 that democracy of the country was killed for political interests. Millions of patriots were tortured in their fight to restore democracy. I salute all the fighters," Shah tweeted. 
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1975 में आज ही के दिन मात्र अपने राजनीतिक हितों के लिए देश के लोकतंत्र की हत्या की गयी। देशवासियों से उनके मूलभूत अधिकार छीन लिए गए, अखबारों पर ताले लगा दिए गए। लाखों राष्ट्रभक्तों ने लोकतंत्र को पुनर्स्थापित करने के लिए अनेकों यातनाएं सहीं। 
 
मैं उन सभी सेनानियों को नमन करता हूं। <a href="https://t.co/XzRc4vEdJS">pic.twitter.com/XzRc4vEdJS</a>
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1143361005583552513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Defence minister Rajnath Singh said Emergency was one of the darkest chapters in Indian history. "The declaration of Emergency on June 25, 1975 and the incidents that followed, mark as one of the darkest chapters in India’s history. On this day, we the people of India should always remember the importance of upholding the integrity our institutions and the Constitution," he tweeted. 
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The declaration of Emergency on June 25, 1975 and the incidents that followed, mark as one of the darkest chapters in India’s history. 
 
On this day, we the people of India should always remember the importance of upholding the integrity our institutions and the Constitution.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1143345301756846080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile lashing out at BJP, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee took to Twitter and said that while it was the anniversary of Emergency imposed in 1975, the country is going through "super emergency" for the past five years.

"Today is the anniversary of the Emergency declared in 1975. For the last five years, the country went through a 'Super Emergency'. We must learn our lessons from history and fight to safeguard the democratic institutions in the country," Banerjee tweeted. 
&nbsp;

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Today is the anniversary of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Emergency?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Emergency</a> declared in 1975. For the last five years, the country went through a ‘Super Emergency’. We must learn our lessons from history and fight to safeguard the democratic institutions in the country
— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial/status/1143336759205306368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Emergency was imposed in India from June 25, 1975 to March 21, 1977.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid homage to people who resisted the Emergency imposed by the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on this day in 1975. "India salutes all those greats who fiercely and fearlessly resisted the Emergency.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid homage to people who resisted the Emergency imposed by the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on this day in 1975. "India salutes all those greats who fiercely and fearlessly resisted the Emergency. India's democratic ethos successfully prevailed over an authoritarian mindset," he tweeted with a short video. India salutes all those greats who fiercely and fearlessly resisted the Emergency. India’s democratic ethos successfully prevailed over an authoritarian mindset. pic.twitter.com/vUS6HYPbT5 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 25, 2019 × Home minister Amit Shah also recalled how people were deprived of their fundamental rights during the Emergency. "It was on this day in 1975 that democracy of the country was killed for political interests. Millions of patriots were tortured in their fight to restore democracy. I salute all the fighters," Shah tweeted. 1975 में आज ही के दिन मात्र अपने राजनीतिक हितों के लिए देश के लोकतंत्र की हत्या की गयी। देशवासियों से उनके मूलभूत अधिकार छीन लिए गए, अखबारों पर ताले लगा दिए गए। लाखों राष्ट्रभक्तों ने लोकतंत्र को पुनर्स्थापित करने के लिए अनेकों यातनाएं सहीं। मैं उन सभी सेनानियों को नमन करता हूं। pic.twitter.com/XzRc4vEdJS — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) June 25, 2019 × Defence minister Rajnath Singh said Emergency was one of the darkest chapters in Indian history. "The declaration of Emergency on June 25, 1975 and the incidents that followed, mark as one of the darkest chapters in India’s history. On this day, we the people of India should always remember the importance of upholding the integrity our institutions and the Constitution," he tweeted. The declaration of Emergency on June 25, 1975 and the incidents that followed, mark as one of the darkest chapters in India’s history. On this day, we the people of India should always remember the importance of upholding the integrity our institutions and the Constitution. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) June 25, 2019 × Meanwhile lashing out at BJP, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee took to Twitter and said that while it was the anniversary of Emergency imposed in 1975, the country is going through "super emergency" for the past five years. "Today is the anniversary of the Emergency declared in 1975. For the last five years, the country went through a 'Super Emergency'. We must learn our lessons from history and fight to safeguard the democratic institutions in the country," Banerjee tweeted. Today is the anniversary of the #Emergency declared in 1975. For the last five years, the country went through a ‘Super Emergency’. We must learn our lessons from history and fight to safeguard the democratic institutions in the country — Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) June 25, 2019 × Emergency was imposed in India from June 25, 1975 to March 21, 1977. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Narendra Modi, Amit Shah remember those who resisted Emergency; Mamata Banerjee lashes out at BJP

Home minister Amit Shah will embark&nbsp;on a two-day visit to the Kashmir valley from Wednesday.&nbsp;

Focusing on internal security, the home minister will chair a high-level security meeting in Srinagar during the visit. He will also co-chair the unified headquarters meeting with J&amp;K Governor Satya Pal Malik.

Unified headquarters is the state's apex anti-militancy security grid, which comprises top officials of the security forces, including the army and the state police engaged in counter-insurgency operations.

Shah will also meet the state party leaders, delegations of the civil society and Panchayat members. The home minister's visit, which was earlier scheduled for June 30, was preponed due to his busy schedule connected with the Union Budget.

Earlier this month, Shah held a security meeting to take stock of internal security in the country and the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, attended by National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and the Intelligence Bureau chief.

Shah has asserted that the policy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government of zero tolerance towards terrorism will continue in Jammu and Kashmir. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Home minister Amit Shah will embark on a two-day visit to the Kashmir valley from Wednesday. Focusing on internal security, the home minister will chair a high-level security meeting in Srinagar during the visit.

Home minister Amit Shah will embark on a two-day visit to the Kashmir valley from Wednesday. Focusing on internal security, the home minister will chair a high-level security meeting in Srinagar during the visit. He will also co-chair the unified headquarters meeting with J&K Governor Satya Pal Malik. Unified headquarters is the state's apex anti-militancy security grid, which comprises top officials of the security forces, including the army and the state police engaged in counter-insurgency operations. Shah will also meet the state party leaders, delegations of the civil society and Panchayat members. The home minister's visit, which was earlier scheduled for June 30, was preponed due to his busy schedule connected with the Union Budget. Earlier this month, Shah held a security meeting to take stock of internal security in the country and the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, attended by National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and the Intelligence Bureau chief. Shah has asserted that the policy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government of zero tolerance towards terrorism will continue in Jammu and Kashmir. (With inputs from agencies)

Internal security top agenda of home minister Amit Shah's Kashmir visit

The Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected a petition filed by the Gujarat Congress against the Election Commission's decision to hold separate byelections to two Rajya Sabha seats in the state.

The two Rajya Sabha seats fell vacant after Amit Shah and Smriti Irani were elected to the Lok Sabha. However, the top court allowed the Gujarat Congress to file an 'election plea' after the conclusion of polls to fill the two Rajya Sabha seats.

An election petition is a procedure to call into question the election results of parliamentary, Assembly or local elections.

The petition was filed by Congress MLA and Leader of Opposition in Gujarat Assembly Pareshbhai Dhanani.&nbsp;The Election Commission had clarified that the vacancies for bypolls to all Houses, including the Rajya Sabha, are considered "separate vacancies" and separate notifications are issued and separate polls are held, though the schedule can be the same. 
 
The Congress has fielded Gaurav Pandya and Chandrika Chudasama for the two Rajya Sabha seats.

(With inputs from PTI)

The Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected a petition filed by the Gujarat Congress against the Election Commission's decision to hold separate byelections to two Rajya Sabha seats in the state.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected a petition filed by the Gujarat Congress against the Election Commission's decision to hold separate byelections to two Rajya Sabha seats in the state. The two Rajya Sabha seats fell vacant after Amit Shah and Smriti Irani were elected to the Lok Sabha. However, the top court allowed the Gujarat Congress to file an 'election plea' after the conclusion of polls to fill the two Rajya Sabha seats. An election petition is a procedure to call into question the election results of parliamentary, Assembly or local elections. The petition was filed by Congress MLA and Leader of Opposition in Gujarat Assembly Pareshbhai Dhanani. The Election Commission had clarified that the vacancies for bypolls to all Houses, including the Rajya Sabha, are considered "separate vacancies" and separate notifications are issued and separate polls are held, though the schedule can be the same. The Congress has fielded Gaurav Pandya and Chandrika Chudasama for the two Rajya Sabha seats. (With inputs from PTI)

Supreme Court rejects Gujarat Congress's plea against EC decision to hold separate Rajya Sabha bypolls

Crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking yoga to the world, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Friday that the ancient Indian practice has become ambassador of the country's culture around the globe.

Shah praised Modi's efforts towards promoting Yoga and said it was due to the prime minister's initiatives that yoga has got international recognition and June 21 is now celebrated as the International Day of Yoga.

Addressing state-level yoga day celebrations organised by the Haryana government here, Shah said on December 11, 2014, the United Nations General Assembly declared June 21 as the 'International Day of Yoga', months after Prime Minister Modi proposed the idea.

The International Day of Yoga is celebrated annually on June 21 to raise global awareness about the benefits of the ancient Indian practice.

"Modi ji has helped take yoga to the world. It has also helped promote our culture. Yoga today has become ambassador of our culture to the world and has helped attract millions across the world to our culture... It has played a key role in promoting our culture," Shah said.

Without naming anyone, Shah said there are some who point fingers by saying what will be gained by doing yoga for a day. 
 
"I want to humbly tell those pointing fingers that today, on this occasion, in 200 nations crores of people who are doing yoga will help inspire millions of children, who will take a pledge to connect yoga with their life," he said.

He said in the past when India was under foreign rule including by the Britishers, yoga was restricted to saints and seers. 
 
Shah said that later many people made their contributions to promote yoga, but international recognition came only in 2014.

"Several people held different programmes and contributed to revive yoga. But it gained recognition at the world level when country witnessed a big change in 2014 when people decided to elect Narendra Modi as the prime minister. Addressing the UN General Assembly on December 11, 2014, Modi presented our heritage before the world," the Union home minister said.

"Within 70 days of putting the proposal of observing June 21 as Yoga day, 177 countries accepted it. As a result of it, the whole world is celebrating International Yoga Day," he said.

Shah said in western nations and at other places a patent is registered for any invention, but yoga, he added, was India's gift to the world and it was for the welfare and well-being of the entire world.

Shah also expressed gratitude to saints and seers as also to Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and Ramdev for popularising this ancient Indian practice. 
 
Expressing happiness on a large number of people taking to yoga, the home minister said he is surprised to see a gathering of 1 lakh to 1.5 lakh attending early morning yoga camps of Ramdev.

"I want to express gratitude and thank all those who have helped promote yoga and make it as a revolution," he said.&nbsp;He congratulated the Manohar Lal Khattar government for setting up a Yoga Council in the state.

Shah highlighted the benefits of the ancient Indian practice for overall well-being, saying yoga keeps body and mind healthy.&nbsp;Yoga is showing the world the way towards a healthy life, he said. ?&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

"Yoga is the symbol of India's ancient history and diversity which is showing the world the way towards a healthy life," he tweeted after the event.

Earlier, Chief Minister Khattar touched upon steps taken by the Modi government and his own dispensation for promotion of yoga.&nbsp;He said yoga day celebrations were held at 80 places in Haryana.

On the occasion, Shah, Khattar and others performed various yoga 'asanas' including 'Kapal Bhati', 'Anulom Vilom' and 'Bhramari Pranayama'.

Among others who were present on the occasion included Haryana ministers Anil Vij, Manish Grover, senior BJP leader Anil Jain, BJP MP from Rohtak, Arvind Sharma and state BJP chief Subhash Barala.&nbsp;

Crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking yoga to the world, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Friday that the ancient Indian practice has become ambassador of the country's culture around the globe.

Crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking yoga to the world, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Friday that the ancient Indian practice has become ambassador of the country's culture around the globe. Shah praised Modi's efforts towards promoting Yoga and said it was due to the prime minister's initiatives that yoga has got international recognition and June 21 is now celebrated as the International Day of Yoga. Addressing state-level yoga day celebrations organised by the Haryana government here, Shah said on December 11, 2014, the United Nations General Assembly declared June 21 as the 'International Day of Yoga', months after Prime Minister Modi proposed the idea. The International Day of Yoga is celebrated annually on June 21 to raise global awareness about the benefits of the ancient Indian practice. "Modi ji has helped take yoga to the world. It has also helped promote our culture. Yoga today has become ambassador of our culture to the world and has helped attract millions across the world to our culture... It has played a key role in promoting our culture," Shah said. Without naming anyone, Shah said there are some who point fingers by saying what will be gained by doing yoga for a day. "I want to humbly tell those pointing fingers that today, on this occasion, in 200 nations crores of people who are doing yoga will help inspire millions of children, who will take a pledge to connect yoga with their life," he said. He said in the past when India was under foreign rule including by the Britishers, yoga was restricted to saints and seers. Shah said that later many people made their contributions to promote yoga, but international recognition came only in 2014. "Several people held different programmes and contributed to revive yoga. But it gained recognition at the world level when country witnessed a big change in 2014 when people decided to elect Narendra Modi as the prime minister. Addressing the UN General Assembly on December 11, 2014, Modi presented our heritage before the world," the Union home minister said. "Within 70 days of putting the proposal of observing June 21 as Yoga day, 177 countries accepted it. As a result of it, the whole world is celebrating International Yoga Day," he said. Shah said in western nations and at other places a patent is registered for any invention, but yoga, he added, was India's gift to the world and it was for the welfare and well-being of the entire world. Shah also expressed gratitude to saints and seers as also to Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and Ramdev for popularising this ancient Indian practice. Expressing happiness on a large number of people taking to yoga, the home minister said he is surprised to see a gathering of 1 lakh to 1.5 lakh attending early morning yoga camps of Ramdev. "I want to express gratitude and thank all those who have helped promote yoga and make it as a revolution," he said. He congratulated the Manohar Lal Khattar government for setting up a Yoga Council in the state. Shah highlighted the benefits of the ancient Indian practice for overall well-being, saying yoga keeps body and mind healthy. Yoga is showing the world the way towards a healthy life, he said. ? "Yoga is the symbol of India's ancient history and diversity which is showing the world the way towards a healthy life," he tweeted after the event. Earlier, Chief Minister Khattar touched upon steps taken by the Modi government and his own dispensation for promotion of yoga. He said yoga day celebrations were held at 80 places in Haryana. On the occasion, Shah, Khattar and others performed various yoga 'asanas' including 'Kapal Bhati', 'Anulom Vilom' and 'Bhramari Pranayama'. Among others who were present on the occasion included Haryana ministers Anil Vij, Manish Grover, senior BJP leader Anil Jain, BJP MP from Rohtak, Arvind Sharma and state BJP chief Subhash Barala.

Amit Shah credits PM Narendra Modi for taking yoga to the world

International Yoga Day: Enthusiasts twist and stretch in 'Yoga for the heart' in 2019

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/madhya-pradesh-chief-minister-kamal-nath-calls-on-pm-modi-discusses-issues-concerning-his-state-224944">Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath</a> has met Home Minister Amit Shah and asked him to release over Rs 800 crore as central grant to check crime against women and children in his state more effectively.

Some other issues related to the state were discussed during the Sunday meeting, officials said on Monday.

Nath, who took over as the chief minister in December, has also written a letter to the home minister in this regard.

In the letter, he drew the home minister's attention towards one of the sensitive issues of the crime against women and children.

"Considering the sensitivity of this issue, the state government is proposing a project for comprehensive set up of investigating officers/legal advisors/prosecutors and counsellors apart from DNA laboratories and mobile forensic teams exclusively for dealing with the crime against women and children. The budget outlay required is Rs 880 crore," Nath said.

He requested the home minister to support this initiative as "this will help in dealing with one of the most sensitive issues in the state".

In a horrific incident, an eight-year-old girl was raped and murdered in Madhya Pradesh's capital Bhopal earlier this month.&nbsp;

According to the latest data of National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), as many as 34,651 cases of rape were registered in 2015. The number increased to 38,947 in 2016.&nbsp;

Overall crimes against women rose from 3,29,243 in 2015 to 3,38,954 in 2016, according to the NCRB data.&nbsp;

The highest number of rapes has been reported from Madhya Pradesh (4,882), followed by Uttar Pradesh (4,816) and Maharashtra (4,189) in 2016, it said.&nbsp;

Madhya Pradesh has reported 6,016 cases of kidnapping and abduction of children in 2016, the data said. There were 2,467 cases of child rape in the state in 2016.&nbsp;

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath has met Home Minister Amit Shah and asked him to release over Rs 800 crore as central grant to check crime against women and children in his state more effectively.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath has met Home Minister Amit Shah and asked him to release over Rs 800 crore as central grant to check crime against women and children in his state more effectively. Some other issues related to the state were discussed during the Sunday meeting, officials said on Monday. Nath, who took over as the chief minister in December, has also written a letter to the home minister in this regard. In the letter, he drew the home minister's attention towards one of the sensitive issues of the crime against women and children. "Considering the sensitivity of this issue, the state government is proposing a project for comprehensive set up of investigating officers/legal advisors/prosecutors and counsellors apart from DNA laboratories and mobile forensic teams exclusively for dealing with the crime against women and children. The budget outlay required is Rs 880 crore," Nath said. He requested the home minister to support this initiative as "this will help in dealing with one of the most sensitive issues in the state". In a horrific incident, an eight-year-old girl was raped and murdered in Madhya Pradesh's capital Bhopal earlier this month. According to the latest data of National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), as many as 34,651 cases of rape were registered in 2015. The number increased to 38,947 in 2016. Overall crimes against women rose from 3,29,243 in 2015 to 3,38,954 in 2016, according to the NCRB data. The highest number of rapes has been reported from Madhya Pradesh (4,882), followed by Uttar Pradesh (4,816) and Maharashtra (4,189) in 2016, it said. Madhya Pradesh has reported 6,016 cases of kidnapping and abduction of children in 2016, the data said. There were 2,467 cases of child rape in the state in 2016.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath seeks over Rs 800 crore central grant to tackle crime against women

The first session of 17th Lok Sabha commenced on&nbsp;Monday with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-value-the-opinion-of-opposition-pm-modi-ahead-of-first-session-of-the-17th-lok-sabha-227837">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>, who is also the leader of the House, taking oath as Member.

As soon as the House met, the Members stood in silence for a few minutes as per the convention after the assembling of the new Lok Sabha.

When Modi's name was called out, Members from the ruling NDA thumped the desk greeting the Prime Minister with slogans such as ''Modi Modi''&nbsp;and "Bharat Mata ki Jai.''

The panel of presiding officers - K Suresh, Brijbhushan Sharan Singh and B Mehtab - took oath as Members after the Prime Minister.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, and Chemical and Fertilisers Minister D V Sadanand Gowda also took oath.&nbsp;

Earlier today, PM Modi said that&nbsp;views of the Opposition are important for a healthy democracy.&nbsp;

"The opposition shouldn't worry about their numbers. We value their opinions and feelings. I hope they will speak actively and participate in house proceedings," he said while emphasising on the role of opposition in Indian democracy.&nbsp;

"The role of an Opposition and an active Opposition is important in a parliamentary democracy. The Opposition need not bother about their numbers. I hope they speak actively and participate in House proceedings," he said.

He urged all MPs to think of the country when in the House and address issues related to the larger interest of the nation.

(With inputs from PTI)

The first session of 17th Lok Sabha commenced on Monday with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is also the leader of the House, taking oath as Member. As soon as the House met, the Members stood in silence for a few minutes as per the convention after the assembling of the new Lok Sabha.

The first session of 17th Lok Sabha commenced on Monday with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is also the leader of the House, taking oath as Member. As soon as the House met, the Members stood in silence for a few minutes as per the convention after the assembling of the new Lok Sabha. When Modi's name was called out, Members from the ruling NDA thumped the desk greeting the Prime Minister with slogans such as ''Modi Modi'' and "Bharat Mata ki Jai.'' The panel of presiding officers - K Suresh, Brijbhushan Sharan Singh and B Mehtab - took oath as Members after the Prime Minister. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, and Chemical and Fertilisers Minister D V Sadanand Gowda also took oath. Earlier today, PM Modi said that views of the Opposition are important for a healthy democracy. "The opposition shouldn't worry about their numbers. We value their opinions and feelings. I hope they will speak actively and participate in house proceedings," he said while emphasising on the role of opposition in Indian democracy. "The role of an Opposition and an active Opposition is important in a parliamentary democracy. The Opposition need not bother about their numbers. I hope they speak actively and participate in House proceedings," he said. He urged all MPs to think of the country when in the House and address issues related to the larger interest of the nation. (With inputs from PTI)

PM Modi along with members take oath as first session of 17th Lok Sabha begins

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