Union Cabinet of India clears the citizenship amendment bill in the parliament. Citizenship for persecuted minorities in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan even if they don't possess proper document.

India: Union Cabinet clears Citizenship Amendment Bill

Union Cabinet of India clears the Citizenship Amendment Bill in the parliament. Citizenship Amendment Bill grants citizenship for persecuted minorities in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan even if they don't possess proper document.

India: Union Cabinet clears Citizenship Amendment Bill :WION dispatch

The Citizenship Amendment Bill expected to be tabled in the Indian Parliament in the ongoing session seems to have set the cat among the pigeons but ironically most of those opposing it fail to understand perhaps the gravity of the situation as well as the historical context.

The proposed amendment would help non-Muslim including Hindu refugees from the neighbouring countries of Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan to get Indian citizenship much easily than prescribed in earlier regulations.

The genesis of this amendment lies in the failure of these three neighbouring countries to protect its minorities and primarily Hindus. A month before the formation of Pakistan Mohammad Ali Jinnah had declared in a Press Conference in Delhi on July 13, 1947, “The minorities, to whichever community they may belong, will be safeguarded. Their religion or their faith or belief will be protected in every way possible. Their life and property will be secure. There will be no interference of any kind with the freedom of worship. They will have their protection with regard to their religion, faith, their property and their culture. They will be in all respects treated as citizens of Pakistan without any distinction of caste, religion or creed.”

Jinnah had reiterated in his Presidential address to the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan on August 11, 1947, “The first duty of a government is to maintain law and order, so that the life, property and religious beliefs of its subjects are fully protected by the State.”

However, the partition saw all these assurances going for a toss. Not only in 1947, but the atrocities on Hindus have continued in Pakistan unabated ever since it came into existence.

JN Mandal, who had accepted the Cabinet appointment as Minister of Law and Labour in the Government of Pakistan, had given a detailed account of these atrocities in 1950 “and, while he was still holding that post, (he) fled from Pakistan in September 1951. In early October 1951, he sent his letter of resignation to the Pakistan Prime Minister. He describes in detail the reasons for his resignation and for leaving Pakistan previously been appointed in the quota of Muslim League as a Minister in the Interim Government of undivided India on November 1, 1946. In this letter in paragraph 9, he complained about the general anti-Hindu policy of the East Bengal Government and the Police administration. (Recurrent Exodus of Minorities from East Pakistan and Disturbances in India, 1965, p. 9)”

Bhupendra Kumar Dutta, a prominent minority leader of East Pakistan speaking in the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan on March 16, 1950 said, “Sir, so far as we on this side of the House are concerned, we meet under the shadow of a great calamity that threatens our very existence as a community. Reports may be exaggerated; reports may be minimised. Killings may be put in four figures but accepted in three. Women's honour may have suffered in many more cases than the world will ever come to know. There will always be different versions of the extent of the loss of property. But the fact cannot be controverted that the sudden flare-up in east Bengal since February 10th has left the vast numbers we represent stunned and dazed, utterly shaken and nervous and psychologically.”

According to official records (Extracts from Recurrent Exodus of Minorities from East Pakistan and Disturbances in India, 1965, p. 4) &nbsp;

● &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; After 1950 killings with which we shall presently deal, the Hindu holdings of properties fell to 12.7% and nearly 90% of Hindu citizen of Dhaka migrated to India. Similar is the case with the student population in Dhaka.

● From 2900 Hindu boys in schools before partition, 2000 remained before February 1950 killings. And at the end of December 1950 the number was reduced to 140.

●Similarly there were about 2100 Hindu girls in schools before partition about 1200 before the February 1950 incident of these only 25 remained by December 1950.

●The population of Hindu college students fell from 65% at partition to 7% in January 1950 and at the end of 1950, only 12 remained.

● Similar is the case with lawyers. Hindu shops at the time of Partition and at the end of 1950 only 157 remained.

● Of these the population of There were about 1500 in each of the 45 big and small towns, with the exception of the five smaller ones, Hindu inhabitants were in majority though taking. The total population the number of Hindus amounted to 30 per cent.

These atrocities have continued unabated. If we look at the recent past, there have been numerous such incidents which were raised in even the Parliament and the governments of the day responded to it.

On July 28, 1987, Eduardo Faleiro, Minister of State, Ministry of External Affairs said in Rajya Sabha, “Reports emanating from Pakistan in May-June, 1987 indicate that there have been attacks on Hindu temples as well as on shops and properties belonging to the Hindu community in Sind.”

Pranab Mukherjee, Minister of External Affairs at that time,&nbsp;had told the Rajya Sabha on December 6, 2007, “Reports of violence and atrocities against minorities including Hindus in Bangladesh are received from time to time. The primary responsibility for the protection of the life, liberty and property of all citizens of Bangladesh, including minorities, rests with the Government of Bangladesh. It has been conveyed at the highest levels of Government that such incidents have an adverse impact on public sentiment in India, which in turn have the potential of affecting bilateral ties, and should be strictly dealt with. The Government of India continue to monitor the situation closely and are in touch with the Government of Bangladesh in this regard.”

SM Krishna, Minister of External Affairs told Rajya Sabha, on May 6, 2010, “

&nbsp;“It is the responsibility of the Government of Pakistan to discharge its obligations towards its citizens, including minorities. However, based on reports of persecution of minority groups in Pakistan, the Government had taken up the matter with the Government of Pakistan. The Government of Pakistan stated that it was fully cognizant of the situation and looked after the welfare of all its citizens, particularly the minority community.”

On March 22, 2012 E Ahmad, Minister of State, Ministry of External Affairs told Rajya Sabha about the ‘Killing of Hindu Doctors in Pakistan. Ahmad said,

“Government has seen media reports about the killing of Hindu doctors in Pakistan on November 7, 2011. Three Hindu doctors were reportedly killed and one sustained injuries when attacked in their village in Taluka Chak, District Shikarpur in Pakistan.”

On September 5, 2012 Mullappally Ramachandran, Minister of State, Ministry of Home Affairs told Rajya Sabha about the &nbsp;Hindu families from Pakistan seeking refuge in India. The Minister said, &nbsp;“In 2009, 6,437 Hindus entered India from Pakistan via Attari ICP. Of these, 1,198 did not return. In 2010, 6,036 Hindus entered and 491 did not return. Similarly, in 2011, 5,012 Hindus entered and 1248 did not return.

As on June 30, 2012, a total number of 18,185 (progressive figures) Pakistani nationals were staying on Long Term Visa (LTV) in the country.

Government has seen reports that some Pakistani nationals belonging to minority communities including Hindus, who came to India on valid visas have not gone back to Pakistan on the grounds of religious persecution in Pakistan. Representations have been received requesting for allowing extension of visas of such Pakistani nationals and also for permitting them to apply for Long Term Visa.” 
&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Citizenship Amendment Bill expected to be tabled in the Indian Parliament in the ongoing session seems to have set the cat among the pigeons but ironically most of those opposing it fail to understand perhaps the gravity of the situation as well as the historical context.

The Citizenship Amendment Bill expected to be tabled in the Indian Parliament in the ongoing session seems to have set the cat among the pigeons but ironically most of those opposing it fail to understand perhaps the gravity of the situation as well as the historical context. The proposed amendment would help non-Muslim including Hindu refugees from the neighbouring countries of Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan to get Indian citizenship much easily than prescribed in earlier regulations. The genesis of this amendment lies in the failure of these three neighbouring countries to protect its minorities and primarily Hindus. A month before the formation of Pakistan Mohammad Ali Jinnah had declared in a Press Conference in Delhi on July 13, 1947, “The minorities, to whichever community they may belong, will be safeguarded. Their religion or their faith or belief will be protected in every way possible. Their life and property will be secure. There will be no interference of any kind with the freedom of worship. They will have their protection with regard to their religion, faith, their property and their culture. They will be in all respects treated as citizens of Pakistan without any distinction of caste, religion or creed.” Jinnah had reiterated in his Presidential address to the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan on August 11, 1947, “The first duty of a government is to maintain law and order, so that the life, property and religious beliefs of its subjects are fully protected by the State.” However, the partition saw all these assurances going for a toss. Not only in 1947, but the atrocities on Hindus have continued in Pakistan unabated ever since it came into existence. JN Mandal, who had accepted the Cabinet appointment as Minister of Law and Labour in the Government of Pakistan, had given a detailed account of these atrocities in 1950 “and, while he was still holding that post, (he) fled from Pakistan in September 1951. In early October 1951, he sent his letter of resignation to the Pakistan Prime Minister. He describes in detail the reasons for his resignation and for leaving Pakistan previously been appointed in the quota of Muslim League as a Minister in the Interim Government of undivided India on November 1, 1946. In this letter in paragraph 9, he complained about the general anti-Hindu policy of the East Bengal Government and the Police administration. (Recurrent Exodus of Minorities from East Pakistan and Disturbances in India, 1965, p. 9)” Bhupendra Kumar Dutta, a prominent minority leader of East Pakistan speaking in the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan on March 16, 1950 said, “Sir, so far as we on this side of the House are concerned, we meet under the shadow of a great calamity that threatens our very existence as a community. Reports may be exaggerated; reports may be minimised. Killings may be put in four figures but accepted in three. Women's honour may have suffered in many more cases than the world will ever come to know. There will always be different versions of the extent of the loss of property. But the fact cannot be controverted that the sudden flare-up in east Bengal since February 10th has left the vast numbers we represent stunned and dazed, utterly shaken and nervous and psychologically.” According to official records (Extracts from Recurrent Exodus of Minorities from East Pakistan and Disturbances in India, 1965, p. 4) ● After 1950 killings with which we shall presently deal, the Hindu holdings of properties fell to 12.7% and nearly 90% of Hindu citizen of Dhaka migrated to India. Similar is the case with the student population in Dhaka. ● From 2900 Hindu boys in schools before partition, 2000 remained before February 1950 killings. And at the end of December 1950 the number was reduced to 140. ●Similarly there were about 2100 Hindu girls in schools before partition about 1200 before the February 1950 incident of these only 25 remained by December 1950. ●The population of Hindu college students fell from 65% at partition to 7% in January 1950 and at the end of 1950, only 12 remained. ● Similar is the case with lawyers. Hindu shops at the time of Partition and at the end of 1950 only 157 remained. ● Of these the population of There were about 1500 in each of the 45 big and small towns, with the exception of the five smaller ones, Hindu inhabitants were in majority though taking. The total population the number of Hindus amounted to 30 per cent. These atrocities have continued unabated. If we look at the recent past, there have been numerous such incidents which were raised in even the Parliament and the governments of the day responded to it. On July 28, 1987, Eduardo Faleiro, Minister of State, Ministry of External Affairs said in Rajya Sabha, “Reports emanating from Pakistan in May-June, 1987 indicate that there have been attacks on Hindu temples as well as on shops and properties belonging to the Hindu community in Sind.” Pranab Mukherjee, Minister of External Affairs at that time, had told the Rajya Sabha on December 6, 2007, “Reports of violence and atrocities against minorities including Hindus in Bangladesh are received from time to time. The primary responsibility for the protection of the life, liberty and property of all citizens of Bangladesh, including minorities, rests with the Government of Bangladesh. It has been conveyed at the highest levels of Government that such incidents have an adverse impact on public sentiment in India, which in turn have the potential of affecting bilateral ties, and should be strictly dealt with. The Government of India continue to monitor the situation closely and are in touch with the Government of Bangladesh in this regard.” SM Krishna, Minister of External Affairs told Rajya Sabha, on May 6, 2010, “ “It is the responsibility of the Government of Pakistan to discharge its obligations towards its citizens, including minorities. However, based on reports of persecution of minority groups in Pakistan, the Government had taken up the matter with the Government of Pakistan. The Government of Pakistan stated that it was fully cognizant of the situation and looked after the welfare of all its citizens, particularly the minority community.” On March 22, 2012 E Ahmad, Minister of State, Ministry of External Affairs told Rajya Sabha about the ‘Killing of Hindu Doctors in Pakistan. Ahmad said, “Government has seen media reports about the killing of Hindu doctors in Pakistan on November 7, 2011. Three Hindu doctors were reportedly killed and one sustained injuries when attacked in their village in Taluka Chak, District Shikarpur in Pakistan.” On September 5, 2012 Mullappally Ramachandran, Minister of State, Ministry of Home Affairs told Rajya Sabha about the Hindu families from Pakistan seeking refuge in India. The Minister said, “In 2009, 6,437 Hindus entered India from Pakistan via Attari ICP. Of these, 1,198 did not return. In 2010, 6,036 Hindus entered and 491 did not return. Similarly, in 2011, 5,012 Hindus entered and 1248 did not return. As on June 30, 2012, a total number of 18,185 (progressive figures) Pakistani nationals were staying on Long Term Visa (LTV) in the country. Government has seen reports that some Pakistani nationals belonging to minority communities including Hindus, who came to India on valid visas have not gone back to Pakistan on the grounds of religious persecution in Pakistan. Representations have been received requesting for allowing extension of visas of such Pakistani nationals and also for permitting them to apply for Long Term Visa.” (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

How Pakistan’s failure to protect minorities compelled India to bring Citizenship Amendment Bill

MLAs of opposition parties staged a walkout from on Thursday, on the first day of the winter session of the Assam Legislative Assembly that began here Thursday and staged a protest demanding cancellation of the question hour and holding a discussion on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/citizenship-amendment-bill-will-be-brought-before-implementation-of-nrc-in-west-bengal-says-amit-shah-253082">Citizenship Amendment Bill </a>and National Register of Citizens (NRC).

"The reason behind the protest is the Citizenship Amendment bill that the union government is proposing to table in the parliament. That bill would definitely violate the Assam accord 1971," former chief minister Tarun Gogoi told reporters here.

"The bill`s motive is against the spirit of the constitution. It is against the right to equality and secularism which are enshrined in the constitution. We have seen mass agitations across the state on this issue but Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal is silent on this matter. He has no moral right to continue as the Chief Minister. The BJP government has sacrificed the culture of the state for the sake of power," he added.

Both Congress and All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) demanded the cancellation of the question hour and to hold a discussion on the Citizenship Amendment Bill and NRC.

Speaker Hitendra Nath Goswami said that Question Hour session could not be called off despite the noisy scene. The Speaker did not cancel the Question Hour and subsequently, the Congress and AIUDF party staged a walkout.

There have been protests in Assam against the proposed Citizenship Amendment Bill as the Centre is going to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/winter-session-of-parliament-government-set-to-push-citizenship-amendment-bill-263005">table the bill</a> in the parliament.

MLAs of opposition parties staged a walkout from on Thursday, on the first day of the winter session of the Assam Legislative Assembly that began here Thursday and staged a protest demanding cancellation of the question hour and holding a discussion on Citizenship Amendment Bill and National Register of Citizens (NRC).

MLAs of opposition parties staged a walkout from on Thursday, on the first day of the winter session of the Assam Legislative Assembly that began here Thursday and staged a protest demanding cancellation of the question hour and holding a discussion on Citizenship Amendment Bill and National Register of Citizens (NRC). "The reason behind the protest is the Citizenship Amendment bill that the union government is proposing to table in the parliament. That bill would definitely violate the Assam accord 1971," former chief minister Tarun Gogoi told reporters here. "The bill`s motive is against the spirit of the constitution. It is against the right to equality and secularism which are enshrined in the constitution. We have seen mass agitations across the state on this issue but Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal is silent on this matter. He has no moral right to continue as the Chief Minister. The BJP government has sacrificed the culture of the state for the sake of power," he added. Both Congress and All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) demanded the cancellation of the question hour and to hold a discussion on the Citizenship Amendment Bill and NRC. Speaker Hitendra Nath Goswami said that Question Hour session could not be called off despite the noisy scene. The Speaker did not cancel the Question Hour and subsequently, the Congress and AIUDF party staged a walkout. There have been protests in Assam against the proposed Citizenship Amendment Bill as the Centre is going to table the bill in the parliament.

Opposition MLAs stage walkout from Assembly over Citizenship Amendment Bill

PM Modi addresses in the 250th session of the upper house of Parliament. Let's listen in...

PM Modi addresses the 250th session of the upper house of Parliament

Winter session begins today, will have 20 sittings between 18th Nov to 13th Dec. Today is the first day of the session. This time the government is preparing to introduce 27 new bills in the winter session of Parliament. Will the Opposition support the Citizenship Amendment Bill? Will the issue of the economy, unemployment bother the government?

Winter session begins today, will have 20 sittings between 18th Nov to 13th Dec

Today is the first day of Parliament's Winter session, PM Modi speaks ahead of the session. Let's listen in...

First day of Parliament's Winter session, PM Modi speaks ahead of the session

The winter session of the Indian parliament has begun. The session will have 20 sittings between November 18 and December 13.

This is the second parliamentary session of the BJP-led NDA government, &nbsp;which returned to power with a greater mandate in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

The government is likely to push passage for citizenship amendment bill, which the government was unable to pass in the previous tenure.

Economic slowdown, the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and unemployment are some of the key issues that are likely to emerge as flashpoints between the opposition and the BJP government.&nbsp;

The first session was productive as both houses of the parliament passed key legislations such as Triple Talaq and giving more power to the National Investigation Agency.

The last session also saw both the houses passing resolution abrogating special status to Jammu and Kashmir and also bifurcating the state into two union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

However, the opposition Congress party has given adjournment motion in the lower house over quote-unquote instability in J&amp;K.

Ahead of the session Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to reporters and said that he hopes that this session will be a productive one.

Today also marks the 250th sitting of the Rajya Sabha.

Chairman Venkaiah Naidu has released a publication that details the journey of the upper house since May 1952.

Total sittings of the Rajya Sabha till its 249th session is 5,466. Since its existence, the house has passed 3,817 bills.

Out of which 60 bills lapsed due to dissolution of Lok Sabha at various point of time. A total number of bills introduced in Rajya Sabha is at 944.

104 bills have been withdrawn by the upper house and over 38 bills of bills are still pending in the house.

Addressing the parliament during its 250th session, PM Modi said that the Rajya Sabha allows people away from electoral politics. And contribute to the country and its development.

PM Modi also hailed the Rajya Sabha on passing some landmark judgements including the triple talaq bill, abrogation of article 370 etc.

To celebrate the 250th session, the upper house will discuss 'the role of Rajya Sabha in Indian polity: the need for reform' in the second half today.

A postal coin of Rs 250 and postal stamp of Rs 5 will also be released to commemorate the evolution of Rajya Sabha.

The winter session of the Indian parliament has begun. The session will have 20 sittings between November 18 and December 13. This is the second parliamentary session of the BJP-led NDA government, which returned to power with a greater mandate in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

The winter session of the Indian parliament has begun. The session will have 20 sittings between November 18 and December 13. This is the second parliamentary session of the BJP-led NDA government, which returned to power with a greater mandate in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The government is likely to push passage for citizenship amendment bill, which the government was unable to pass in the previous tenure. Economic slowdown, the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and unemployment are some of the key issues that are likely to emerge as flashpoints between the opposition and the BJP government. The first session was productive as both houses of the parliament passed key legislations such as Triple Talaq and giving more power to the National Investigation Agency. The last session also saw both the houses passing resolution abrogating special status to Jammu and Kashmir and also bifurcating the state into two union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. However, the opposition Congress party has given adjournment motion in the lower house over quote-unquote instability in J&K. Ahead of the session Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to reporters and said that he hopes that this session will be a productive one. Today also marks the 250th sitting of the Rajya Sabha. Chairman Venkaiah Naidu has released a publication that details the journey of the upper house since May 1952. Total sittings of the Rajya Sabha till its 249th session is 5,466. Since its existence, the house has passed 3,817 bills. Out of which 60 bills lapsed due to dissolution of Lok Sabha at various point of time. A total number of bills introduced in Rajya Sabha is at 944. 104 bills have been withdrawn by the upper house and over 38 bills of bills are still pending in the house. Addressing the parliament during its 250th session, PM Modi said that the Rajya Sabha allows people away from electoral politics. And contribute to the country and its development. PM Modi also hailed the Rajya Sabha on passing some landmark judgements including the triple talaq bill, abrogation of article 370 etc. To celebrate the 250th session, the upper house will discuss 'the role of Rajya Sabha in Indian polity: the need for reform' in the second half today. A postal coin of Rs 250 and postal stamp of Rs 5 will also be released to commemorate the evolution of Rajya Sabha.

Winter session of Parliament: Government set to push Citizenship Amendment Bill

Winter session begins today, will have 20 sittings between 18th Nov to 13th Dec. Today is the first day of the session. This time the government is preparing to introduce 27 new bills in the winter session of Parliament. Govt to push for Citizenship bill in the winter session of the Parliament.

Govt's focus in winter session of the Parliament: 'Citizenship Amendment Bill'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/removal-of-article-370-step-towards-permanent-peace-in-jammu-and-kashmir-says-amit-shah-252796">Union Home Minister Amit Shah</a> said on Tuesday that the BJP-led Central government will not allow any "infiltrator" to stay in the county while refugees belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Buddhist, Parsi, and Christian religions will be given citizenship.

Addressing a public awakening programme in Kolkata&nbsp;on the National Register of Citizens (NRC), Shah said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi led NDA government will bring the Citizenship Amendment Bill before implementing the NRC.

He accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of spreading misinformation about the NRC that Hindu refugees will have to leave West Bengal.

The minister said that he had come to the state to assure the residents that refugees belonging to Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, Sikh, Parsi, and Christian religions will be not be asked to leave the country.

He said the refugees belonging to these religious groups had come to India due to hardships they faced and most of them are from the Hindu community.

"Do not mock them or their pain will destroy you," he said.

Shah said the "Citizenship Amendment Bill will be brought before the implementation of NRC."

The Bill seeks to make migrants, who are Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, eligible for citizenship.

Shah, who is also the BJP chief, accused the Trinamool Congress of not allowing the passage of the Citizenship Amendment Bill in the Rajya Sabha.

He said Banerjee herself spoke against illegal migrants when she was in opposition but had changed her stance after they became her vote bank.

"We will not allow any refugee to go and we will not allow any infiltrator to stay," he said.

Shah urged the BJP workers to go to every house in Bengal and expose the Trinamool's campaign. "Political interest should not be above national interest and the interest of the state," he said.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Tuesday that the BJP-led Central government will not allow any "infiltrator" to stay in the county while refugees belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Buddhist, Parsi, and Christian religions will be given citizenship.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Tuesday that the BJP-led Central government will not allow any "infiltrator" to stay in the county while refugees belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Buddhist, Parsi, and Christian religions will be given citizenship. Addressing a public awakening programme in Kolkata on the National Register of Citizens (NRC), Shah said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi led NDA government will bring the Citizenship Amendment Bill before implementing the NRC. He accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of spreading misinformation about the NRC that Hindu refugees will have to leave West Bengal. The minister said that he had come to the state to assure the residents that refugees belonging to Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, Sikh, Parsi, and Christian religions will be not be asked to leave the country. He said the refugees belonging to these religious groups had come to India due to hardships they faced and most of them are from the Hindu community. "Do not mock them or their pain will destroy you," he said. Shah said the "Citizenship Amendment Bill will be brought before the implementation of NRC." The Bill seeks to make migrants, who are Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, eligible for citizenship. Shah, who is also the BJP chief, accused the Trinamool Congress of not allowing the passage of the Citizenship Amendment Bill in the Rajya Sabha. He said Banerjee herself spoke against illegal migrants when she was in opposition but had changed her stance after they became her vote bank. "We will not allow any refugee to go and we will not allow any infiltrator to stay," he said. Shah urged the BJP workers to go to every house in Bengal and expose the Trinamool's campaign. "Political interest should not be above national interest and the interest of the state," he said.

Citizenship Amendment Bill will be brought before implementation of NRC in West Bengal, says Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah to speak on National Register of Citizens (NRC) and Citizenship Amendment Bill at Netaji Indoor Stadium here on October 1.

This comes after the meeting between the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Amit Shah on September 18 in Delhi over NRC.

The Chief Minister on Monday stated that six people have died due to panic created over the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and asserted the exercise will not be implemented in the state.

"I am sad that 6 people have died in Bengal due to panic created over NRC. We will never allow NRC here. Please have faith in me," she said while speaking at a Trade Union meeting.

In the final NRC list published on August 31 for Assam, a total of 3,11,21,004 persons are found eligible for inclusion in final list leaving out 19,06,657 persons, including those who did not submit their claims.

The list is aimed at segregating Indian citizens living in Assam from those who had illegally entered the state from Bangladesh. 
&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah to speak on National Register of Citizens (NRC) and Citizenship Amendment Bill at Netaji Indoor Stadium here on October 1. This comes after the meeting between the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Amit Shah on September 18 in Delhi over NRC.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah to speak on National Register of Citizens (NRC) and Citizenship Amendment Bill at Netaji Indoor Stadium here on October 1. This comes after the meeting between the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Amit Shah on September 18 in Delhi over NRC. The Chief Minister on Monday stated that six people have died due to panic created over the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and asserted the exercise will not be implemented in the state. "I am sad that 6 people have died in Bengal due to panic created over NRC. We will never allow NRC here. Please have faith in me," she said while speaking at a Trade Union meeting. In the final NRC list published on August 31 for Assam, a total of 3,11,21,004 persons are found eligible for inclusion in final list leaving out 19,06,657 persons, including those who did not submit their claims. The list is aimed at segregating Indian citizens living in Assam from those who had illegally entered the state from Bangladesh.

Amit Shah to speak on NRC, Citizenship Amendment Bill in Kolkata on October 1

The Supreme Court Wednesday ruled that it will not extend the July 31 deadline for finalisation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice R F Nariman also gave a "free hand" to Prateek Hajela, Assam NRC coordinator dealing with claims and objections of persons against wrong exclusion or inclusion of citizens in the NRC.

The direction came after Hajela informed the bench that many persons, who had objected to the inclusion of certain individuals in the draft NRC are not coming forward before panels which are dealing with such complaints.

The National Register of Citizens (NRC) is being updated under the direct monitoring of the Supreme Court.

The final draft of NRC was released on July 30, 2018, that included the names of 2.9 crore people out of the total applications of 3.29 crore. Around 40.7 lakh people had found their names excluded from the list.

A window ending December 31, 2018, was provided for those who wanted to file claims for re-inclusion.

Within this same period, people who suspected that foreigners have made their way to the list were also allowed to file their objections.

The first draft was published during the intervening nights of December 31, 2017, and January 1, 2018, containing 1.9 crore names.&nbsp;

The NRC aims to separate "genuine" citizens from "illegal immigrants".

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The Supreme Court Wednesday ruled that it will not extend the July 31 deadline for finalisation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam. A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice R F Nariman also gave a "free hand" to Prateek Hajela, Assam NRC coordinator dealing with claims and objections of persons against wrong exclusion or inclusion of citizens in the NRC.

The Supreme Court Wednesday ruled that it will not extend the July 31 deadline for finalisation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam. A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice R F Nariman also gave a "free hand" to Prateek Hajela, Assam NRC coordinator dealing with claims and objections of persons against wrong exclusion or inclusion of citizens in the NRC. The direction came after Hajela informed the bench that many persons, who had objected to the inclusion of certain individuals in the draft NRC are not coming forward before panels which are dealing with such complaints. The National Register of Citizens (NRC) is being updated under the direct monitoring of the Supreme Court. The final draft of NRC was released on July 30, 2018, that included the names of 2.9 crore people out of the total applications of 3.29 crore. Around 40.7 lakh people had found their names excluded from the list. A window ending December 31, 2018, was provided for those who wanted to file claims for re-inclusion. Within this same period, people who suspected that foreigners have made their way to the list were also allowed to file their objections. The first draft was published during the intervening nights of December 31, 2017, and January 1, 2018, containing 1.9 crore names. The NRC aims to separate "genuine" citizens from "illegal immigrants". (With inputs from agencies)

Deadline for finalisation of Assam NRC will not be extended: Supreme Court

BJP president Amit Shah on Sunday said, his party will include Citizenship Amendment Bill in its 2019 general elections' manifesto.

The Citizenship Amendment Bill provides Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Addressing a public gathering at Assam BJP State office in Guwahati, Shah said, "Assam cannot prosper without Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB). We passed it in the Lok Sabha but the Centre failed to table it in the Rajya Sabha. The CAB will be added in our manifesto of the Lok Sabha elections and we are committed to take the Bill to the far reaches of Assam."

The BJP chief further took a dig at Congress president Rahul Gandhi and said, "The BJP is a not regional party, it's a party based on ideology, spreading its wings from Kamrup to Kutch and Kashmir to Kanyakumari. The party follows the Constitution and maintains democracy. There are parties which gradually became parties of families. And even if the son (Rahul Gandhi) of the party leader is brainless, he has to join politics and become a president of that party. Now, he even wants to become the Prime Minister."

"Parties without internal democracy cannot strengthen democracy of the nation. Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Sanjay Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, the future name in this row is still left," Shah added.

Comparing the BJP with the Congress party, Shah asserted, "Internal democracy is quite strong in the BJP because elections are held periodically for all internal positions. The BJP is not the party of any family, it’s a party of karyakartas."

"The Northeast contribution was 20 per cent after independence but it came to 2.3 under the rule of Congress. It was Prime Minister Narendra Modi under whose leadership, Northeast was given special credit and all the sectors starting from roads, railways and education sector, the state witnessed immense development. We brought Ayushman Bharat scheme, provided free electricity, gas connections and toilets to crores of people across the country. Most importantly, we provided security and peace to the Northeast region."

"Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, people in Northeast are living in peace without fear of any bomb blast or terror attack," he added.

Praising the efforts of BJP Karyakartas in Northeast, Shah said, "BJP karyakartas are working day and night to see more development in Assam. We brought NRC (National Register of Citizens) and soon we have also formed a committee for Schedule 6, which will be implemented by the next Modi government."

Earlier in the day, Shah also addressed a public rally at Lakhimpur in Assam, where he said, “We will not allow Assam to become another Kashmir. That is why we have brought NRC. We will deport each and every infiltrator with the help of NRC. We are committed to that.”

BJP president Amit Shah on Sunday said, his party will include Citizenship Amendment Bill in its 2019 general elections' manifesto. The Citizenship Amendment Bill provides Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

BJP president Amit Shah on Sunday said, his party will include Citizenship Amendment Bill in its 2019 general elections' manifesto. The Citizenship Amendment Bill provides Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan. Addressing a public gathering at Assam BJP State office in Guwahati, Shah said, "Assam cannot prosper without Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB). We passed it in the Lok Sabha but the Centre failed to table it in the Rajya Sabha. The CAB will be added in our manifesto of the Lok Sabha elections and we are committed to take the Bill to the far reaches of Assam." The BJP chief further took a dig at Congress president Rahul Gandhi and said, "The BJP is a not regional party, it's a party based on ideology, spreading its wings from Kamrup to Kutch and Kashmir to Kanyakumari. The party follows the Constitution and maintains democracy. There are parties which gradually became parties of families. And even if the son (Rahul Gandhi) of the party leader is brainless, he has to join politics and become a president of that party. Now, he even wants to become the Prime Minister." "Parties without internal democracy cannot strengthen democracy of the nation. Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Sanjay Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, the future name in this row is still left," Shah added. Comparing the BJP with the Congress party, Shah asserted, "Internal democracy is quite strong in the BJP because elections are held periodically for all internal positions. The BJP is not the party of any family, it’s a party of karyakartas." "The Northeast contribution was 20 per cent after independence but it came to 2.3 under the rule of Congress. It was Prime Minister Narendra Modi under whose leadership, Northeast was given special credit and all the sectors starting from roads, railways and education sector, the state witnessed immense development. We brought Ayushman Bharat scheme, provided free electricity, gas connections and toilets to crores of people across the country. Most importantly, we provided security and peace to the Northeast region." "Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, people in Northeast are living in peace without fear of any bomb blast or terror attack," he added. Praising the efforts of BJP Karyakartas in Northeast, Shah said, "BJP karyakartas are working day and night to see more development in Assam. We brought NRC (National Register of Citizens) and soon we have also formed a committee for Schedule 6, which will be implemented by the next Modi government." Earlier in the day, Shah also addressed a public rally at Lakhimpur in Assam, where he said, “We will not allow Assam to become another Kashmir. That is why we have brought NRC. We will deport each and every infiltrator with the help of NRC. We are committed to that.”

BJP will include Citizenship Amendment Bill in its 2019 poll manifesto: Amit Shah

Late veteran Indian playback singer, lyricist and musician Bhupen Hazarika's son on Friday said this his previous statement on his father's Bharat Ratna award was misinterpreted.&nbsp;

"It is unfortunate that (some) people would completely misinterpret my public statement dated 11th February 2019 regarding the Bharat Ratna itself by sadly misrepresenting my view of it," Tej Hazarika, son of late singer, was quoted by ANI.&nbsp;

He added that "it will be an honour, for me and my family to be invited by GOI to accept Bharat Ratna on behalf of my late father".&nbsp;

"It'll be my privilege to receive it for him and his fans. As always, I'll strive to follow in my father's footsteps to bring light where there's darkness," he added.&nbsp;

On February 11, media reports stated that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bhupen-hazarikas-family-turns-down-bharat-ratna-over-citizenship-amendment-bill-reports-196768">Tej Hazarika reportedly turned down the Bharat Ratna</a> awarded to the renowned Assamese singer and his father, Bhupen Hazarika, over the Citizenship Amendment Bill. &nbsp;

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Tej Hazarika says,"It's an honor,for me&amp;my family to be invited by GOI to accept Bharat Ratna on behalf of my late father. It'll be my privilege to receive it for him&amp;his fans. As always,I'll strive to follow in my father's footsteps to bring light where there's darkness." <a href="https://t.co/LOYThklz7W">https://t.co/LOYThklz7W</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1096360626295894017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Tej Hazarika was quoted as telling an Assamese television news channel that he would not be accepting the Bharat Ratna for his father.&nbsp;

The news reports quoted Tej as saying he was not accepting the award because of the current situation in the state, an allusion to the current unrest in the region over the Citizenship Amendment Bill.&nbsp;

Bhupen Hazarika died in 2011. The Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, was given to him this year on the Republic Day.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Late veteran Indian playback singer, lyricist and musician Bhupen Hazarika's son on Friday said this his previous statement on his father's Bharat Ratna award was misinterpreted.

Late veteran Indian playback singer, lyricist and musician Bhupen Hazarika's son on Friday said this his previous statement on his father's Bharat Ratna award was misinterpreted. "It is unfortunate that (some) people would completely misinterpret my public statement dated 11th February 2019 regarding the Bharat Ratna itself by sadly misrepresenting my view of it," Tej Hazarika, son of late singer, was quoted by ANI. He added that "it will be an honour, for me and my family to be invited by GOI to accept Bharat Ratna on behalf of my late father". "It'll be my privilege to receive it for him and his fans. As always, I'll strive to follow in my father's footsteps to bring light where there's darkness," he added. On February 11, media reports stated that Tej Hazarika reportedly turned down the Bharat Ratna awarded to the renowned Assamese singer and his father, Bhupen Hazarika, over the Citizenship Amendment Bill. Tej Hazarika says,"It's an honor,for me&my family to be invited by GOI to accept Bharat Ratna on behalf of my late father. It'll be my privilege to receive it for him&his fans. As always,I'll strive to follow in my father's footsteps to bring light where there's darkness." https://t.co/LOYThklz7W — ANI (@ANI) February 15, 2019 × Tej Hazarika was quoted as telling an Assamese television news channel that he would not be accepting the Bharat Ratna for his father. The news reports quoted Tej as saying he was not accepting the award because of the current situation in the state, an allusion to the current unrest in the region over the Citizenship Amendment Bill. Bhupen Hazarika died in 2011. The Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, was given to him this year on the Republic Day. (With inputs from ANI)

My statement was misinterpreted, will be an honour to accept Bharat Ratna for my late father: Tej Hazarika

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaitley-criticises-cong-for-promising-to-withdraw-triple-talaq-bill-196044">Triple Talaq bill </a>and the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-massive-outrage-in-northeast-citizenship-bill-to-be-tabled-in-rajya-sabha-today-196825">Citizenship Amendment Bill 2016</a>&nbsp;lapsed on the last day of the Budget session in the Parliament on Wednesday after the Rajya Sabha was adjourned sine die.

The Upper House was adjourned after it passed some bills including Interim Budget and Finance Bill for 2019-20 without debate.

Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu in his customary address at the close of the session rued that precious time of the House was lost in protests, stalling proceedings.

The Budget Session of Parliament commenced on January 31.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2016 which was initially scheduled to be tabled in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday&nbsp;could not be presented following the adjournment of the Rajya Sabha.

Amid the ruckus created by SP members, the Rajya Sabha was adjourned for the day without the bill being tabled. The bill was passed in the Lok Sabha in the recently concluded winter session of Parliament, leading to raging protests in the northeastern states.

The bill aimed to grant Indian citizenship to non-muslims who fled religious persecution from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan and entered India before December 31, 2014.

While The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha on December 27 last year with 245 votes in favour and 11 against the bill. The opposition parties had demanded the bill for further examining by a&nbsp;Select Committee of Parliament. The Centre, however, rejected the demand.

The Centre had re-promulgated an ordinance in January this year as the revised bill could not be passed in the Upper House of the parliament where the government lacks a majority.

The bill criminalised&nbsp;the practice of instant triple talaq with a provision of three years imprisonment to the erring husband.

The issue of triple talaq was taken up in the Parliament in August last year after a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court ruled "unconstitutional" a practice that allows Muslim men to divorce their wives simply by uttering "talaq" three times in quick succession.

In a landmark 3-2 verdict, the apex court found the practice un-Islamic and "arbitrary", and disagreed that triple talaq was an integral part of religious practice.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

The Triple Talaq bill and the Citizenship Amendment Bill 2016 lapsed on the last day of the Budget session in the Parliament on Wednesday after the Rajya Sabha was adjourned sine die.

The Triple Talaq bill and the Citizenship Amendment Bill 2016 lapsed on the last day of the Budget session in the Parliament on Wednesday after the Rajya Sabha was adjourned sine die. The Upper House was adjourned after it passed some bills including Interim Budget and Finance Bill for 2019-20 without debate. Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu in his customary address at the close of the session rued that precious time of the House was lost in protests, stalling proceedings. The Budget Session of Parliament commenced on January 31. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2016 which was initially scheduled to be tabled in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday could not be presented following the adjournment of the Rajya Sabha. Amid the ruckus created by SP members, the Rajya Sabha was adjourned for the day without the bill being tabled. The bill was passed in the Lok Sabha in the recently concluded winter session of Parliament, leading to raging protests in the northeastern states. The bill aimed to grant Indian citizenship to non-muslims who fled religious persecution from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan and entered India before December 31, 2014. While The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha on December 27 last year with 245 votes in favour and 11 against the bill. The opposition parties had demanded the bill for further examining by a Select Committee of Parliament. The Centre, however, rejected the demand. The Centre had re-promulgated an ordinance in January this year as the revised bill could not be passed in the Upper House of the parliament where the government lacks a majority. The bill criminalised the practice of instant triple talaq with a provision of three years imprisonment to the erring husband. The issue of triple talaq was taken up in the Parliament in August last year after a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court ruled "unconstitutional" a practice that allows Muslim men to divorce their wives simply by uttering "talaq" three times in quick succession. In a landmark 3-2 verdict, the apex court found the practice un-Islamic and "arbitrary", and disagreed that triple talaq was an integral part of religious practice. (With inputs from agencies)

Triple Talaq, Citizenship Amendment bills lapse as Rajya Sabha adjourned sine die

The Centre is slated to present the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2016 in Rajya Sabha on Tuesday.

The bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to non-Muslims who fled religious persecution from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan and entered India before December 31, 2014.

The Northeast fears the bill will lead to a further influx of Bangladeshi migrants, which is why the opposition to the bill. The bill was passed in the Lok Sabha - or lower house of Indian Parliament - in the recently concluded winter session of Parliament, leading to raging protests in the northeastern states.

The Northeast state governments have been opposing the bill since its passage from the lower house of Parliament.

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has said&nbsp;that his government would leave no stone unturned to constantly protect the rights and privileges of the people.

He further said that the state government, which represents the will and desire of the people, remains opposed to the bill that seeks to remove hurdles for eligible migrants from six minority groups from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan in getting Indian citizenship.&nbsp;

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu who had been defending the bill initially changed his stance on Monday.

He along with his&nbsp;Manipur counterpart N Biren Singh met Rajnath Singh in New Delhi on Monday to apprise him about the prevailing situation in their respective states in particular and in the Northeast following the passing of the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 in the Lok Sabha on January 8.

MNF leader and Chief Minister Zoramthanga has said that the ruling party would not hesitate to snap ties with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and BJP-led North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) if the Bill is passed.

State BJP chief John V Hluna also warned that the state unit of the saffron party would be dissolved if the central leadership goes ahead with the proposed amendment.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The Centre is slated to present the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2016 in Rajya Sabha on Tuesday. The bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to non-Muslims who fled religious persecution from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan and entered India before December 31, 2014.

The Centre is slated to present the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2016 in Rajya Sabha on Tuesday. The bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to non-Muslims who fled religious persecution from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan and entered India before December 31, 2014. The Northeast fears the bill will lead to a further influx of Bangladeshi migrants, which is why the opposition to the bill. The bill was passed in the Lok Sabha - or lower house of Indian Parliament - in the recently concluded winter session of Parliament, leading to raging protests in the northeastern states. The Northeast state governments have been opposing the bill since its passage from the lower house of Parliament. Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has said that his government would leave no stone unturned to constantly protect the rights and privileges of the people. He further said that the state government, which represents the will and desire of the people, remains opposed to the bill that seeks to remove hurdles for eligible migrants from six minority groups from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan in getting Indian citizenship. Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu who had been defending the bill initially changed his stance on Monday. He along with his Manipur counterpart N Biren Singh met Rajnath Singh in New Delhi on Monday to apprise him about the prevailing situation in their respective states in particular and in the Northeast following the passing of the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 in the Lok Sabha on January 8. MNF leader and Chief Minister Zoramthanga has said that the ruling party would not hesitate to snap ties with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and BJP-led North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) if the Bill is passed. State BJP chief John V Hluna also warned that the state unit of the saffron party would be dissolved if the central leadership goes ahead with the proposed amendment. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid massive outrage in Northeast, Citizenship bill to be tabled in Rajya Sabha today

Bhupen Hazarika's son has reportedly turned down the Bharat Ratna given to the renowned Assamese singer over the Citizenship Amendment Bill. &nbsp;

News reports Monday quoted <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bharat-ratna-for-bhupen-hazarika-a-victory-for-humanity-diversity-tej-hazarika-193299">Tej Hazarika</a>, Bhupen Hazarika's son, as telling an Assamese television news channel that he would not be accepting the Bharat Ratna.&nbsp;

The news reports quoted Tej as saying he was not accepting the award because of the current situation in the state,&nbsp;an allusion to the current unrest in the region over the Citizenship Amendment Bill.&nbsp;

Hazarika died in 2011. The Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, was given to him this year on Republic Day.&nbsp;

"It is his (Tej's) decision, not mine," ANI quoted Bhupen Hazarika's brother Samar as saying. "Anyway, I think he (Bhupen) should get it. It is already too late."

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Samar Hazarika, late Singer composer <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BhupenHazarika?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BhupenHazarika</a>'s brother on reports that <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BhupenHazarika?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BhupenHazarika</a>'s son Tej has refused to accept Bharat Ratan for Bhupen Hazarika: It is his decision, not mine. Anyway, I think he (Bhupen) should get it. It is already too late. <a href="https://t.co/3YW1ikldsb">pic.twitter.com/3YW1ikldsb</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1095013972409868288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill has caused a massive uproar in the Northeast.&nbsp;

The bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to non-Muslims who fled religious persecution from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan and entered India before December 31, 2014.

The Northeast fears the bill will lead to a further influx of Bangladeshi migrants, which is why the opposition to the bill. The bill was passed in the Lok Sabha in the recently concluded winter session of Parliament, leading to raging protests in the northeastern states.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill is currently pending in the Rajya Sabha.&nbsp;

Bhupen Hazarika's son has reportedly turned down the Bharat Ratna given to the renowned Assamese singer over the Citizenship Amendment Bill. News reports Monday quoted Tej Hazarika, Bhupen Hazarika's son, as telling an Assamese television news channel that he would not be accepting the Bharat Ratna.

Bhupen Hazarika's son has reportedly turned down the Bharat Ratna given to the renowned Assamese singer over the Citizenship Amendment Bill. News reports Monday quoted Tej Hazarika, Bhupen Hazarika's son, as telling an Assamese television news channel that he would not be accepting the Bharat Ratna. The news reports quoted Tej as saying he was not accepting the award because of the current situation in the state, an allusion to the current unrest in the region over the Citizenship Amendment Bill. Hazarika died in 2011. The Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, was given to him this year on Republic Day. "It is his (Tej's) decision, not mine," ANI quoted Bhupen Hazarika's brother Samar as saying. "Anyway, I think he (Bhupen) should get it. It is already too late." Samar Hazarika, late Singer composer #BhupenHazarika's brother on reports that #BhupenHazarika's son Tej has refused to accept Bharat Ratan for Bhupen Hazarika: It is his decision, not mine. Anyway, I think he (Bhupen) should get it. It is already too late. pic.twitter.com/3YW1ikldsb — ANI (@ANI) February 11, 2019 × The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill has caused a massive uproar in the Northeast. The bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to non-Muslims who fled religious persecution from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan and entered India before December 31, 2014. The Northeast fears the bill will lead to a further influx of Bangladeshi migrants, which is why the opposition to the bill. The bill was passed in the Lok Sabha in the recently concluded winter session of Parliament, leading to raging protests in the northeastern states. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill is currently pending in the Rajya Sabha.

Bhupen Hazarika's family turns down Bharat Ratna over Citizenship Amendment Bill: Reports

Former Assam chief minister Prafulla Kumar Mahanta Sunday warned the Narendra Modi government that a "volatile" situation will arise in the state if the contentious Citizenship (Amendment) Bill is passed by the Rajya Sabha.

The two-time chief minister and founder-president of the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) said the state is witnessing a mass uprising, similar to the Assam agitation of 1979-85, against the proposed legislation and the situation may turn worse if the NDA government "doesn't respect" people's sentiment.

"Situation in Assam will be very volatile if the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill is passed by the Rajya Sabha. The Modi government will be responsible for it," Mahanta, who is now in Delhi to campaign against the bill, told PTI.

The bill provides for Indian nationality to persecuted non-Muslims of Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.

Mahanta, who led the Assam agitation against the illegal immigrants, said the bill violates the provisions of the Assam Accord and basic tenants of the Constitution as it wants to give citizenship to anyone who had come to India till December 31, 2014 on the basis of religion.

"When the Assam Accord was signed (1985), all political parties, including the BJP, had welcomed it. But the BJP-led government wants to ruin it now. The bill also violates the basic tenants of the Constitution as it provides for citizenship on the basis of religion," he said.

Mahanta said the bill also violates the Supreme Court verdict on the famous Keshavanand Bharti case, which made it clear that basic structure of the Constitution is inviolable and hence can't be amended by Parliament.

The bill provides for according Indian citizenship to Hindus, Jains, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists and Parsis from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan after seven years of residence in India instead of 12 years, which is the norm currently, even if they do not possess any document.

The legislation was passed by the Lok Sabha during the Winter Session on January 8 and has been awaiting Rajya Sabha nod.

There has been strong opposition in Assam and other Northeastern states against the bill.

Political parties, students groups and others have been protesting on the grounds that the bill seeks to grant nationality to non-Muslims who have come up to December 31, 2014, thereby, increasing the deadline from 1971 as per the Assam Accord.

Also, according to the Assam Accord, all illegal immigrants who have come after 1971, irrespective of their religion, have to be deported and this bill violates that.

A delegation of the AGP, including Mahanta, met a number of BJP and opposition leaders in last two days to impress upon them the strong sentiment of the people in Assam against the bill.

The AGP team met Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad, among others.

The AGP has already quit its alliance with the BJP in Assam protesting against the Modi government's decision to get Parliament's approval for the bill. 
Mahanta alleged that the BJP is completely ignoring the sentiment of the Assamese people.

"It talks about something but does something else," he said.

The senior leader also claimed that there are intelligence reports about the current unrest in the Northeast and the central government is aware about them.

"If the government goes ahead with the bill, situation will be very difficult," he said.

Addressing the joint sitting of Parliament, President Ram Nath Kovind Thursday said the bill will give justice to persecuted minorities of Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan through Indian nationality.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also announced that the bill is an "atonement of the wrong that was done during India's Partition. India will safeguard all who had been victims of the Partition".&nbsp;

Former Assam chief minister Prafulla Kumar Mahanta Sunday warned the Narendra Modi government that a "volatile" situation will arise in the state if the contentious Citizenship (Amendment) Bill is passed by the Rajya Sabha.

Former Assam chief minister Prafulla Kumar Mahanta Sunday warned the Narendra Modi government that a "volatile" situation will arise in the state if the contentious Citizenship (Amendment) Bill is passed by the Rajya Sabha. The two-time chief minister and founder-president of the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) said the state is witnessing a mass uprising, similar to the Assam agitation of 1979-85, against the proposed legislation and the situation may turn worse if the NDA government "doesn't respect" people's sentiment. "Situation in Assam will be very volatile if the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill is passed by the Rajya Sabha. The Modi government will be responsible for it," Mahanta, who is now in Delhi to campaign against the bill, told PTI. The bill provides for Indian nationality to persecuted non-Muslims of Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan. Mahanta, who led the Assam agitation against the illegal immigrants, said the bill violates the provisions of the Assam Accord and basic tenants of the Constitution as it wants to give citizenship to anyone who had come to India till December 31, 2014 on the basis of religion. "When the Assam Accord was signed (1985), all political parties, including the BJP, had welcomed it. But the BJP-led government wants to ruin it now. The bill also violates the basic tenants of the Constitution as it provides for citizenship on the basis of religion," he said. Mahanta said the bill also violates the Supreme Court verdict on the famous Keshavanand Bharti case, which made it clear that basic structure of the Constitution is inviolable and hence can't be amended by Parliament. The bill provides for according Indian citizenship to Hindus, Jains, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists and Parsis from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan after seven years of residence in India instead of 12 years, which is the norm currently, even if they do not possess any document. The legislation was passed by the Lok Sabha during the Winter Session on January 8 and has been awaiting Rajya Sabha nod. There has been strong opposition in Assam and other Northeastern states against the bill. Political parties, students groups and others have been protesting on the grounds that the bill seeks to grant nationality to non-Muslims who have come up to December 31, 2014, thereby, increasing the deadline from 1971 as per the Assam Accord. Also, according to the Assam Accord, all illegal immigrants who have come after 1971, irrespective of their religion, have to be deported and this bill violates that. A delegation of the AGP, including Mahanta, met a number of BJP and opposition leaders in last two days to impress upon them the strong sentiment of the people in Assam against the bill. The AGP team met Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad, among others. The AGP has already quit its alliance with the BJP in Assam protesting against the Modi government's decision to get Parliament's approval for the bill. Mahanta alleged that the BJP is completely ignoring the sentiment of the Assamese people. "It talks about something but does something else," he said. The senior leader also claimed that there are intelligence reports about the current unrest in the Northeast and the central government is aware about them. "If the government goes ahead with the bill, situation will be very difficult," he said. Addressing the joint sitting of Parliament, President Ram Nath Kovind Thursday said the bill will give justice to persecuted minorities of Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan through Indian nationality. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also announced that the bill is an "atonement of the wrong that was done during India's Partition. India will safeguard all who had been victims of the Partition".

Ex-Assam CM Prafulla Kumar Mahanta warns of 'volatile' situation if Citizenship Bill is passed

Manipuri filmmaker Aribam Syam Sharma on Sunday returned the fourth highest civilian award in India, the Padma Shri, to show his protest against the Citizenship Amendment Bill 2016.

Citing that the bill was against the interest of the people of north-east, the indigenous people of Manipur, the filmmaker said returning the award was the best way to protest against the bill.

The bill that was passed by the Lok Sabha on January 8 &nbsp;seeks to amend the Citizenship Act, 1955 and aims to grant Indian citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians who entered India from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan before December 31, 2014.

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Filmmaker Aribam Shyam Sharma returns his 2006 Padma Shri award in protest against Citizenship Amendment Bill. <a href="https://t.co/zJ4QQlK9Ze">pic.twitter.com/zJ4QQlK9Ze</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1091997604731248640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Bill has led to a series of protests in different north-eastern states since its passage.

Manipuri filmmaker Aribam Syam Sharma on Sunday returned the fourth highest civilian award in India, the Padma Shri, to show his protest against the Citizenship Amendment Bill 2016.

Manipuri filmmaker Aribam Syam Sharma on Sunday returned the fourth highest civilian award in India, the Padma Shri, to show his protest against the Citizenship Amendment Bill 2016. Citing that the bill was against the interest of the people of north-east, the indigenous people of Manipur, the filmmaker said returning the award was the best way to protest against the bill. The bill that was passed by the Lok Sabha on January 8 seeks to amend the Citizenship Act, 1955 and aims to grant Indian citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians who entered India from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan before December 31, 2014. Filmmaker Aribam Shyam Sharma returns his 2006 Padma Shri award in protest against Citizenship Amendment Bill. pic.twitter.com/zJ4QQlK9Ze — ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2019 × The Bill has led to a series of protests in different north-eastern states since its passage.

Manipuri filmmaker Aribam Syam Sharma returns Padma Shri to protest against Citizenship Amendment Bill

Regional parties across the Northeast which are in alliance with the BJP will meet in Guwahati on Tuesday to put forth their objections to the controversial Citizenship Amendment Bill.

They will be joined by the JD(U), NDA's major ally in Bihar, and the AGP, which recently snapped ties with the BJP in Assam over the proposed legislation that seeks to provide Indian citizenship to non-Muslim nationals from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan after six years of residence in India.

Meghalaya Chief Minister and National People's Party (NPP) president Conrad K Sangma is taking the lead role in convening the all-regional-parties meet Tuesday and the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) is the co-convenor of the meeting, Meghalaya's ruling party NPP leaders said Monday.

The MNF from Mizoram, NDPP from Nagaland, IPFT from Tripura, SDF from Sikkim besides NPP leaderships from Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and Manipur have confirmed their participation in the meeting, they said.

KC Tyagi, general secretary of the Nitish Kumar's headed JD(U), arrived in Guwahati. Party's national vice president Prashant Kishore is expected to reach the city.

Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga left Aizawl Monday for Guwahati to attend the meeting of chief ministers and regional parties of the north-east to be held Tuesday on the issue of Citizenship Amendment Bill, ruling Mizo National Front (MNF) party sources said.

The regional parties across northeast which are meeting on the Citizenship Bill are members of BJP-led NEDA (North East Democratic Alliance).

Protests against the Bill have rocked the Northeast region, with those opposing it contending that it would harm the rights of the indigenous people.&nbsp;

The gathering to put forth their objections to the Citizenship Bill, which is piloted by the BJP, is bound to create more uneasiness for the party as the Northeast together accounts for 25 Lok Sabha seats. The BJP which either on its own or with NEDA allies is in power in all the eight northeastern states is eying them in the coming parliamentary polls.

"The chief minister (Sangma) has invited all political parties, mostly regional parties in the NE region, to discuss on the amendment of the Citizenship Bill. The meeting will be held at Vivanta Taj in Guwahati," Meghalaya state president of the NPP Wanweiroi R Kharlukhi told PTI.

All regional parties in Meghalaya, which are part of the ruling Meghalaya Democratic Alliance, have confirmed their participation at the event, he said.

Regional parties from Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh and Tripura are also attending the meeting, he added.

The NPP, which is the main ally of the BJP in the Northeast and part of the NEDA, had met Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh last month to oppose the Bill.

The Meghalaya Democratic Alliance, also led by the NPP, has passed a resolution in the cabinet opposing the Bill.

The leaders of the AGP had last week met Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma at his residence at Tura.

A report from Aiwazl said that that the meeting, jointly convened by the AGP and the NPP, would deliberate on how to oppose the Citizenship Amendment Bill unitedly. 
"The cabinet meeting chaired by Zoramthanga had adopted a resolution resolving to oppose the passage of the Citizenship Amendment Bill and the chief minister had informed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh that the state government and the people of Mizoram were opposed to the legislation of the proposed amendment," sources said.

Majority of the northeastern states have come up with resolutions against the Citizenship Bill.

Even the BJP-led government in Manipur has expressed strong reservation against the Bill.

The JD(U) has supported the AGP and the AASU on the issue and has even announced that it would vote against the Bill in Rajya Sabha. Tyagi told reporters in Guwahati Monday that his party would vote against the Citizenship Bill when it will come up in the Upper House.

AGP president Atul Bora said that a convention of northeast political parties has been convened in Guwahati on Tuesday to voice their protest against the Bill together.

He said that "the entire Northeast is protesting the Bill and it's unfortunate that the Assam government has ignored sentiments of the indigenous people and is instead attacking and harassing people and organisations opposing the Bill".

Regional parties across the Northeast which are in alliance with the BJP will meet in Guwahati on Tuesday to put forth their objections to the controversial Citizenship Amendment Bill.

Regional parties across the Northeast which are in alliance with the BJP will meet in Guwahati on Tuesday to put forth their objections to the controversial Citizenship Amendment Bill. They will be joined by the JD(U), NDA's major ally in Bihar, and the AGP, which recently snapped ties with the BJP in Assam over the proposed legislation that seeks to provide Indian citizenship to non-Muslim nationals from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan after six years of residence in India. Meghalaya Chief Minister and National People's Party (NPP) president Conrad K Sangma is taking the lead role in convening the all-regional-parties meet Tuesday and the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) is the co-convenor of the meeting, Meghalaya's ruling party NPP leaders said Monday. The MNF from Mizoram, NDPP from Nagaland, IPFT from Tripura, SDF from Sikkim besides NPP leaderships from Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and Manipur have confirmed their participation in the meeting, they said. KC Tyagi, general secretary of the Nitish Kumar's headed JD(U), arrived in Guwahati. Party's national vice president Prashant Kishore is expected to reach the city. Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga left Aizawl Monday for Guwahati to attend the meeting of chief ministers and regional parties of the north-east to be held Tuesday on the issue of Citizenship Amendment Bill, ruling Mizo National Front (MNF) party sources said. The regional parties across northeast which are meeting on the Citizenship Bill are members of BJP-led NEDA (North East Democratic Alliance). Protests against the Bill have rocked the Northeast region, with those opposing it contending that it would harm the rights of the indigenous people. The gathering to put forth their objections to the Citizenship Bill, which is piloted by the BJP, is bound to create more uneasiness for the party as the Northeast together accounts for 25 Lok Sabha seats. The BJP which either on its own or with NEDA allies is in power in all the eight northeastern states is eying them in the coming parliamentary polls. "The chief minister (Sangma) has invited all political parties, mostly regional parties in the NE region, to discuss on the amendment of the Citizenship Bill. The meeting will be held at Vivanta Taj in Guwahati," Meghalaya state president of the NPP Wanweiroi R Kharlukhi told PTI. All regional parties in Meghalaya, which are part of the ruling Meghalaya Democratic Alliance, have confirmed their participation at the event, he said. Regional parties from Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh and Tripura are also attending the meeting, he added. The NPP, which is the main ally of the BJP in the Northeast and part of the NEDA, had met Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh last month to oppose the Bill. The Meghalaya Democratic Alliance, also led by the NPP, has passed a resolution in the cabinet opposing the Bill. The leaders of the AGP had last week met Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma at his residence at Tura. A report from Aiwazl said that that the meeting, jointly convened by the AGP and the NPP, would deliberate on how to oppose the Citizenship Amendment Bill unitedly. "The cabinet meeting chaired by Zoramthanga had adopted a resolution resolving to oppose the passage of the Citizenship Amendment Bill and the chief minister had informed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh that the state government and the people of Mizoram were opposed to the legislation of the proposed amendment," sources said. Majority of the northeastern states have come up with resolutions against the Citizenship Bill. Even the BJP-led government in Manipur has expressed strong reservation against the Bill. The JD(U) has supported the AGP and the AASU on the issue and has even announced that it would vote against the Bill in Rajya Sabha. Tyagi told reporters in Guwahati Monday that his party would vote against the Citizenship Bill when it will come up in the Upper House. AGP president Atul Bora said that a convention of northeast political parties has been convened in Guwahati on Tuesday to voice their protest against the Bill together. He said that "the entire Northeast is protesting the Bill and it's unfortunate that the Assam government has ignored sentiments of the indigenous people and is instead attacking and harassing people and organisations opposing the Bill".

Northeastern allies of BJP to meet Tuesday in Guwahati against Citizenship Bill

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has called a meeting of all political parties in the state on January 29 to discuss the Citizenship Amendment Bill even as protests against the Bill continue in the state.

The chief minister’s media advisor, Irengbam Arun Thursday said the CM has called the meeting at his official residence here on January 29 morning to discuss the Bill.

The BJP is heading a coalition government in the state with the National People’s Party, Naga People’s Front and the Lok Janshakti Party. Meanwhile, protests against the Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB) are continuing in the state with people taking out processions and holding sit-ins in various districts demanding that the Bill be withdrawn.

Manipur People’s Party (MPP), many students’ organisations and civil society players in the state are against the CAB. MPP president O Jugindro had earlier said his party would oppose the Bill tooth and nail. He said the Bill, if passed in the Rajya Sabha, would reduce the population of indigenous people of the northeastern states, including Manipur, to “microscopic minority”.

Six students’ organisation of the state along with the women organisation ‘Meira Paibi’ have also announced that they would launch an agitation against CAB at New Delhi when the Bill would be introduced in the Rajya Sabha. The chief minister has earlier said the Bill will have no effect on the state. 
The Manipur Cabinet in its January 10 meeting chaired by the chief minister had urged the Centre to exempt the state from the jurisdiction of the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill.

The state cabinet in the same meeting also decided to urge the Centre and authorities concerned to give assent to the Manipur Peoples’ (Protection) Bill, 2018 passed by the state assembly. The Manipur Peoples’ (Protection) Bill, 2018 defines Manipuris and non-Manipuris and seeks to protect the interests and identity of the indigenous people.

The Citizenship Amendment Bill was passed by the Lok Sabha on January 8. The Bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to non-Muslims who fled religious persecution from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan and entered India before December 31, 2014.

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has called a meeting of all political parties in the state on January 29 to discuss the Citizenship Amendment Bill even as protests against the Bill continue in the state.

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has called a meeting of all political parties in the state on January 29 to discuss the Citizenship Amendment Bill even as protests against the Bill continue in the state. The chief minister’s media advisor, Irengbam Arun Thursday said the CM has called the meeting at his official residence here on January 29 morning to discuss the Bill. The BJP is heading a coalition government in the state with the National People’s Party, Naga People’s Front and the Lok Janshakti Party. Meanwhile, protests against the Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB) are continuing in the state with people taking out processions and holding sit-ins in various districts demanding that the Bill be withdrawn. Manipur People’s Party (MPP), many students’ organisations and civil society players in the state are against the CAB. MPP president O Jugindro had earlier said his party would oppose the Bill tooth and nail. He said the Bill, if passed in the Rajya Sabha, would reduce the population of indigenous people of the northeastern states, including Manipur, to “microscopic minority”. Six students’ organisation of the state along with the women organisation ‘Meira Paibi’ have also announced that they would launch an agitation against CAB at New Delhi when the Bill would be introduced in the Rajya Sabha. The chief minister has earlier said the Bill will have no effect on the state. The Manipur Cabinet in its January 10 meeting chaired by the chief minister had urged the Centre to exempt the state from the jurisdiction of the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill. The state cabinet in the same meeting also decided to urge the Centre and authorities concerned to give assent to the Manipur Peoples’ (Protection) Bill, 2018 passed by the state assembly. The Manipur Peoples’ (Protection) Bill, 2018 defines Manipuris and non-Manipuris and seeks to protect the interests and identity of the indigenous people. The Citizenship Amendment Bill was passed by the Lok Sabha on January 8. The Bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to non-Muslims who fled religious persecution from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan and entered India before December 31, 2014.

Citizenship Amendment Bill: As protests rage, Manipur CM calls all-party meeting on Jan 29 to discuss situation

The Supreme Court on Monday said a plea challenging the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to provide Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan, could only be taken up after the bill was approved by the Rajya Sabha.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said it would keep the plea filed by the "Nagarikatwa Aain Songsudhan Birodhi Mancha" (Forum Against Citizenship Act Amendment Bill) and others pending and might hear it only after Parliament took the final view on the bill.

"Having heard the counsel for the petitioners, we are of the view that this matter should remain pending and be taken up only after the Citizenship Amendment Bill, the consideration of which is now stated to be pending before the Rajya Sabha, reaches its finality.

"The petitioners will be at liberty to mention the matter at the appropriate time," the bench, also comprising justices Ashok Bhushan and S K Kaul, said. 
The bill has been cleared by the Lok Sabha and it would now be presented in the Upper House of Parliament.

The public interest litigation (PIL) has sought to declare the Passport (Entry into India) Amendment Rules, 2015 and the Foreigners (Amendment) Order as "discriminatory, arbitrary and illegal".

"We can keep this plea pending and if it (bill) is passed in the Rajya Sabha, then the lawyer can mention it for hearing," the bench said.

The bill, passed in the Lok Sabha on January 8, provides for according Indian citizenship to the Hindus, Jains, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists and Parsis who fled religious persecution in Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan after six years of residence in India, instead of the 12 years currently, even if they do not possess any document.

It also seeks to provide relief to the persecuted migrants who have come through the western borders of the country to states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh etc., the home minister had said.

The PIL opposed the bill on the ground that it had introduced religion as a new principle into the citizenship law and termed it as "communally motivated humanitarianism".

"Never before has religion been specifically identified in the citizenship law as a ground for distinguishing between citizens and non-citizens. It has introduced religion as a new principle into the citizenship law and can be conveniently branded as 'communally motivated humanitarianism'.

"The illegal immigrants who are to be granted the benefit of this legislation are to qualify for citizenship only on the basis of religion, a requirement that goes against one of the basic tenets of the Indian Constitution, secularism," it said.

It further claimed that the "direct and inevitable" effect of the bill would be the dilution of the Assam Accord inked in 1985, which presently made anyone entering Assam from Bangladesh after March 24, 1971, an "illegal immigrant".

"The amendment defeats the purpose of the accord and opens the floodgates to more illegal immigration and consequently, increases claims on diminishing resources. The transformation of migrants, hitherto perceived as illegal encroachers, into legitimate citizens cannot be justified," it said.

The plea further claimed that the bill had the potential to "derail and nullify" the gains made by updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam.

"Many persons, who could not otherwise establish their claims and were therefore excluded from the draft NRC published recently, can now take shelter under this and subsequently, become legitimate Indian citizens at the cost of the indigenous people of Assam," it said.

The petition further alleged that Assam had repeatedly witnessed ethnic clashes and violence, which were arising out of existential threat perceptions, fear of being reduced to a minority in one's own homeland and giving up territories to foreigners and imposition of foreign or alien culture.

The PIL sought directions to the Centre, the Ministry of External Affairs and the Assam government to declare the Passport (Entry into India) Amendment Rules, 2015 and the Foreigners (Amendment) Order as "discriminatory, arbitrary and illegal".

It further sought directions to the Centre to constitute a National Immigration Commission or any other appropriate body to frame a National Immigration Policy and a National Refugee Policy.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Monday said a plea challenging the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to provide Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan, could only be taken up after the bill was approved by the Rajya Sabha.

The Supreme Court on Monday said a plea challenging the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to provide Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan, could only be taken up after the bill was approved by the Rajya Sabha. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said it would keep the plea filed by the "Nagarikatwa Aain Songsudhan Birodhi Mancha" (Forum Against Citizenship Act Amendment Bill) and others pending and might hear it only after Parliament took the final view on the bill. "Having heard the counsel for the petitioners, we are of the view that this matter should remain pending and be taken up only after the Citizenship Amendment Bill, the consideration of which is now stated to be pending before the Rajya Sabha, reaches its finality. "The petitioners will be at liberty to mention the matter at the appropriate time," the bench, also comprising justices Ashok Bhushan and S K Kaul, said. The bill has been cleared by the Lok Sabha and it would now be presented in the Upper House of Parliament. The public interest litigation (PIL) has sought to declare the Passport (Entry into India) Amendment Rules, 2015 and the Foreigners (Amendment) Order as "discriminatory, arbitrary and illegal". "We can keep this plea pending and if it (bill) is passed in the Rajya Sabha, then the lawyer can mention it for hearing," the bench said. The bill, passed in the Lok Sabha on January 8, provides for according Indian citizenship to the Hindus, Jains, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists and Parsis who fled religious persecution in Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan after six years of residence in India, instead of the 12 years currently, even if they do not possess any document. It also seeks to provide relief to the persecuted migrants who have come through the western borders of the country to states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh etc., the home minister had said. The PIL opposed the bill on the ground that it had introduced religion as a new principle into the citizenship law and termed it as "communally motivated humanitarianism". "Never before has religion been specifically identified in the citizenship law as a ground for distinguishing between citizens and non-citizens. It has introduced religion as a new principle into the citizenship law and can be conveniently branded as 'communally motivated humanitarianism'. "The illegal immigrants who are to be granted the benefit of this legislation are to qualify for citizenship only on the basis of religion, a requirement that goes against one of the basic tenets of the Indian Constitution, secularism," it said. It further claimed that the "direct and inevitable" effect of the bill would be the dilution of the Assam Accord inked in 1985, which presently made anyone entering Assam from Bangladesh after March 24, 1971, an "illegal immigrant". "The amendment defeats the purpose of the accord and opens the floodgates to more illegal immigration and consequently, increases claims on diminishing resources. The transformation of migrants, hitherto perceived as illegal encroachers, into legitimate citizens cannot be justified," it said. The plea further claimed that the bill had the potential to "derail and nullify" the gains made by updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam. "Many persons, who could not otherwise establish their claims and were therefore excluded from the draft NRC published recently, can now take shelter under this and subsequently, become legitimate Indian citizens at the cost of the indigenous people of Assam," it said. The petition further alleged that Assam had repeatedly witnessed ethnic clashes and violence, which were arising out of existential threat perceptions, fear of being reduced to a minority in one's own homeland and giving up territories to foreigners and imposition of foreign or alien culture. The PIL sought directions to the Centre, the Ministry of External Affairs and the Assam government to declare the Passport (Entry into India) Amendment Rules, 2015 and the Foreigners (Amendment) Order as "discriminatory, arbitrary and illegal". It further sought directions to the Centre to constitute a National Immigration Commission or any other appropriate body to frame a National Immigration Policy and a National Refugee Policy.

Supreme Court to hear plea against Citizenship Amendment Bill after Rajya Sabha clears it

Amidst the Citizenship Amendment Bill controversy, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has assured Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh of protection of rights and interests of the people of Manipur.

N Biren Singh called on Rajnath Singh along with Manipur BJP president and Rajya Sabha MP Ksh. Bhabananda Singh on Saturday.

They discussed issues related to the protection of the rights and interests of the indigenous people of Manipur.

Rajnath Singh assured that interests of all North Eastern states, including Manipur, and their culture and heritage will be fully protected.

He promised to call for a meeting of all concerned state chief ministers to discuss requisite safeguards in this regard.

The Manipur chief minister also submitted a memorandum urging for Presidential assent to Manipur People's Protection Bill 2018. The Home Minister assured that the ministry will examine the Bill.

Amidst the Citizenship Amendment Bill controversy, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has assured Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh of protection of rights and interests of the people of Manipur.

Amidst the Citizenship Amendment Bill controversy, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has assured Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh of protection of rights and interests of the people of Manipur. N Biren Singh called on Rajnath Singh along with Manipur BJP president and Rajya Sabha MP Ksh. Bhabananda Singh on Saturday. They discussed issues related to the protection of the rights and interests of the indigenous people of Manipur. Rajnath Singh assured that interests of all North Eastern states, including Manipur, and their culture and heritage will be fully protected. He promised to call for a meeting of all concerned state chief ministers to discuss requisite safeguards in this regard. The Manipur chief minister also submitted a memorandum urging for Presidential assent to Manipur People's Protection Bill 2018. The Home Minister assured that the ministry will examine the Bill.

Citizenship Amendment Bill: Rajnath Singh assures Manipur CM protection of rights

An 11-hour Northeast bandh, called by a number of students' organisation and political parties on Tuesday, to protest against the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Bill began amid tight security at 5am.

In Assam, the All Assam Students' Union (AASU) has called for a state-wide bandh after a gap of 10 years and it is being supported by the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), which <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-hurt-by-agp-pullout-opposition-parties-welcome-decision-188912">withdrew support to the BJP-led government in Assam</a> on Monday, the opposition Congress, the AIUDF, and the Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS).

Tyres were burnt on roads at various places in Assam to prevent movement of vehicles. Vehicles were damaged in Guwahati, Tinsukia and Dibrugarh districts, police said.

Railway tracks were blocked briefly in Guwahati and Dibrugarh district but movement of trains, including that of the Delhi-bound Rajdhani Express, resumed after the GRP removed protestors from the tracks, railway sources said.

Train and flight schedules remained unaffected.

Shops, markets, financial institutions kept their shutters down, educational institutions, private offices remained closed and private vehicles, including long-distance buses, kept off roads in the Brahmaputra valley, police and official sources said.

Attendance in government offices was thin as the employees had difficulty in reaching their workplace in the absence of adequate public transport, the sources said. 
A skeleton service of the government-run Assam State Transport Corporation buses were pressed into service.

Several students' bodies of the region have decided to observe the 'bandh' in support of the call given by the North East Students' Organisation (NESO), an umbrella organisation of students' unions, of which the AASU is a constituent.

Thirty ethnic organisations are also supporting the bandh in Assam.

The bandh evoked response in the Bengali-majority Barak valley also where Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 4, had announced that the Citizenship Amendment Bill, 2016 will be passed as soon as possible in the Parliament as a penance for past injustices.

The bill seeks to amend the Citizenship Act 1955 to grant Indian citizenship to people from minority communities ? Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians ? from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan after six years of residence in India instead of 12 even if they do not possess any proper document.

The AGP and other groups in Assam have said the provisions of the bill will nullify the 1985 Assam Accord, which provides for deportation of all illegal migrants, irrespective of religion, who had entered the state after March, 1971.

Security arrangements were intensified and patrolling by police and paramilitary forces intensified across the state in view of the bandh called by the AASU after ten years.

Assam Director General of Police Kuladhar Saikia said, "District SPs have been instructed to ensure public peace. Appropriate forces have been deployed across the state to prevent any untoward incident. Patrolling has also been intensified at all places."

Meanwhile, member organisations of the NESO in other states such as Mizo Zirlai Pawal (MZP), All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU), Khasi Students Union (KSU), Garo Students Union (GSU), Naga Students' Federation (NSF), All Manipur Students Union (AMSU) and Twipra Students Federation (TSF) are also supporting the bandh.&nbsp;

An 11-hour Northeast bandh, called by a number of students' organisation and political parties on Tuesday, to protest against the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Bill began amid tight security at 5am.

An 11-hour Northeast bandh, called by a number of students' organisation and political parties on Tuesday, to protest against the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Bill began amid tight security at 5am. In Assam, the All Assam Students' Union (AASU) has called for a state-wide bandh after a gap of 10 years and it is being supported by the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), which withdrew support to the BJP-led government in Assam on Monday, the opposition Congress, the AIUDF, and the Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS). Tyres were burnt on roads at various places in Assam to prevent movement of vehicles. Vehicles were damaged in Guwahati, Tinsukia and Dibrugarh districts, police said. Railway tracks were blocked briefly in Guwahati and Dibrugarh district but movement of trains, including that of the Delhi-bound Rajdhani Express, resumed after the GRP removed protestors from the tracks, railway sources said. Train and flight schedules remained unaffected. Shops, markets, financial institutions kept their shutters down, educational institutions, private offices remained closed and private vehicles, including long-distance buses, kept off roads in the Brahmaputra valley, police and official sources said. Attendance in government offices was thin as the employees had difficulty in reaching their workplace in the absence of adequate public transport, the sources said. A skeleton service of the government-run Assam State Transport Corporation buses were pressed into service. Several students' bodies of the region have decided to observe the 'bandh' in support of the call given by the North East Students' Organisation (NESO), an umbrella organisation of students' unions, of which the AASU is a constituent. Thirty ethnic organisations are also supporting the bandh in Assam. The bandh evoked response in the Bengali-majority Barak valley also where Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 4, had announced that the Citizenship Amendment Bill, 2016 will be passed as soon as possible in the Parliament as a penance for past injustices. The bill seeks to amend the Citizenship Act 1955 to grant Indian citizenship to people from minority communities ? Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians ? from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan after six years of residence in India instead of 12 even if they do not possess any proper document. The AGP and other groups in Assam have said the provisions of the bill will nullify the 1985 Assam Accord, which provides for deportation of all illegal migrants, irrespective of religion, who had entered the state after March, 1971. Security arrangements were intensified and patrolling by police and paramilitary forces intensified across the state in view of the bandh called by the AASU after ten years. Assam Director General of Police Kuladhar Saikia said, "District SPs have been instructed to ensure public peace. Appropriate forces have been deployed across the state to prevent any untoward incident. Patrolling has also been intensified at all places." Meanwhile, member organisations of the NESO in other states such as Mizo Zirlai Pawal (MZP), All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU), Khasi Students Union (KSU), Garo Students Union (GSU), Naga Students' Federation (NSF), All Manipur Students Union (AMSU) and Twipra Students Federation (TSF) are also supporting the bandh.

Northeast observes shutdown against Citizenship Amendment Bill

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-to-hear-ayodhya-case-from-january-10-189035">5-judge Supreme Court bench to hear Ayodhya case on January 10</a>

The Supreme Court has set up a five-judge constitution bench to hear the Ayodhya case.&nbsp;The bench will be headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi and will include Justice&nbsp;SA Bobde, Justice NV Ramana, Justice UU Lalit, Justice DY Chandrachud.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/citizenship-amendment-bill-2019-passed-in-lok-sabha-189033">Citizenship Amendment Bill 2019 passed in Lok Sabha</a>

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019 has been passed in the Parliament on Tuesday after a discussion regarding various&nbsp;clauses of the Bill.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nandan-nilekani-appointed-chairman-of-panel-by-rbi-to-assess-digitisation-of-payments-in-india-189026">RBI appoints Nandan Nilekani as chairman of </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nandan-nilekani-appointed-chairman-of-panel-by-rbi-to-assess-digitisation-of-payments-in-india-189026">committee</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nandan-nilekani-appointed-chairman-of-panel-by-rbi-to-assess-digitisation-of-payments-in-india-189026"> to assess digital payments</a>

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has appointed Nandan Nilekani, co-founder of Infosys, as the chairman of the committee to assess digitisation of payments in India.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-call-off-peace-talks-with-us-officials-189044">Taliban call off peace talks with US officials</a>

The Taliban on Tuesday cancelled the planned peace talks with the US officials in Qatar over an agenda disagreement.The meeting was cancelled even after the change&nbsp;in the&nbsp;venue of the meet on the demands of the&nbsp;Taliban. The Taliban had earlier demanded a shift in the venue of the talks to Qatar.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/suspect-20-held-over-massive-german-politician-data-hack-189024">20-year-old suspect held over massive German politician data hack</a>

German police said Tuesday they have arrested a 20-year-old suspect in the case of&nbsp;private data stolen from hundreds of politicians, including Chancellor Angela Merkel, and published online.

5-judge Supreme Court bench to hear Ayodhya case on January 10 The Supreme Court has set up a five-judge constitution bench to hear the Ayodhya case. The bench will be headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi and will include Justice SA Bobde, Justice NV Ramana, Justice UU Lalit, Justice DY Chandrachud.

5-judge Supreme Court bench to hear Ayodhya case on January 10 The Supreme Court has set up a five-judge constitution bench to hear the Ayodhya case. The bench will be headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi and will include Justice SA Bobde, Justice NV Ramana, Justice UU Lalit, Justice DY Chandrachud. Citizenship Amendment Bill 2019 passed in Lok Sabha The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019 has been passed in the Parliament on Tuesday after a discussion regarding various clauses of the Bill. RBI appoints Nandan Nilekani as chairman of committee to assess digital payments The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has appointed Nandan Nilekani, co-founder of Infosys, as the chairman of the committee to assess digitisation of payments in India. Taliban call off peace talks with US officials The Taliban on Tuesday cancelled the planned peace talks with the US officials in Qatar over an agenda disagreement.The meeting was cancelled even after the change in the venue of the meet on the demands of the Taliban. The Taliban had earlier demanded a shift in the venue of the talks to Qatar. 20-year-old suspect held over massive German politician data hack German police said Tuesday they have arrested a 20-year-old suspect in the case of private data stolen from hundreds of politicians, including Chancellor Angela Merkel, and published online.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019 has been passed in the Parliament on Tuesday after a discussion regarding various <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/agp-pulls-out-of-alliance-with-bjp-in-assam-after-the-union-cabinet-approves-citizenship-amendment-bill-188833">clauses of the Bill.</a>

The Bill seeks to enable Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians who fled to India from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh without valid travel documents or those whose valid documents expired in recent years to acquire Indian citizenship through the process of naturalisation.&nbsp;

"We want that the minorities of other countries should remain in their countries peacefully, but unfortunately that is not happening, which is why this Bill is being proposed," said Rajnath Singh while debating on The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill.

Speaking in the Lok Sabha on the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, Rajnath Singh appeals to the people of Assam and says their customs, tradition, linguistics and culture will be protected by the Centre. Singh said that the burden of the Citizenship Bill will not fall only on Assam, but the entire country.

Earlier, moving the bill for passage, Rajnath Singh said it will help the migrants who had "faced problematic conditions" including religious prosecution in the three countries get citizenship of the country.

He said religious minorities in Pakistan have been facing systematic discrimination and, though the present governments in Afghanistan and Bangladesh, were committed to the welfare of the minorities, they have faced problems in the past.

He said no other country except India could have provided interim protection from punitive legal action to minorities facing difficulties in the neighbouring countries.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019 has been passed in the Parliament on Tuesday after a discussion regarding various clauses of the Bill. The Bill seeks to enable Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians who fled to India from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh without valid travel documents or those whose valid documents expired in recent years to acquire Indian citizenship through the process of naturalisation.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019 has been passed in the Parliament on Tuesday after a discussion regarding various clauses of the Bill. The Bill seeks to enable Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians who fled to India from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh without valid travel documents or those whose valid documents expired in recent years to acquire Indian citizenship through the process of naturalisation. "We want that the minorities of other countries should remain in their countries peacefully, but unfortunately that is not happening, which is why this Bill is being proposed," said Rajnath Singh while debating on The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill. Speaking in the Lok Sabha on the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, Rajnath Singh appeals to the people of Assam and says their customs, tradition, linguistics and culture will be protected by the Centre. Singh said that the burden of the Citizenship Bill will not fall only on Assam, but the entire country. Earlier, moving the bill for passage, Rajnath Singh said it will help the migrants who had "faced problematic conditions" including religious prosecution in the three countries get citizenship of the country. He said religious minorities in Pakistan have been facing systematic discrimination and, though the present governments in Afghanistan and Bangladesh, were committed to the welfare of the minorities, they have faced problems in the past. He said no other country except India could have provided interim protection from punitive legal action to minorities facing difficulties in the neighbouring countries. (With inputs from agencies)

Citizenship Amendment Bill 2019 passed in Lok Sabha

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/northeast-bandh-begins-against-citizenship-amendment-bill-188915">Agitators clashed with the police</a>, gheraoed Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal's house at his native place in Dibrugarh, blocked national highways and damaged vehicles in Assam during an 11-hour "bandh" called by the AASU to protest against the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Bill.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/agp-pulls-out-of-alliance-with-bjp-in-assam-after-the-union-cabinet-approves-citizenship-amendment-bill-188833">The All Assam Students' Union (AASU)</a> activists clashed with the police when they attempted to ransack a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) office in Dibrugarh, prompting the security forces to resort to lathi-charge and fire rubber bullets to disperse the protestors.

Nobody was injured in the incident, the police said.

The AASU has called for a statewide "bandh" and it is being supported by the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), which withdrew support to the BJP-led government in Assam on Monday.

Opposition Congress, the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) and the Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS) are also supporting the bandh.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 aims to amend the Citizenship Act, 1955 to grant Indian citizenship to those Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians who fled religious persecution in Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan and entered India before December 31, 2014.

Normal life was hit in the Brahmaputra valley and was partially affected in the Barak valley due to a "north-east bandh" called separately by the North East Students' Organisation (NESO), an umbrella organisation of students' bodies in the region, of which the AASU is a constituent.

The "bandh" called by the NESO on the same issue is being supported by over 100 organisations in Assam as well as in the other north-eastern states.

The agitators gheraoed Sonowal's house in his hometown, Dibrugarh, to register their protest against the bill. They raised slogans that the chief minister had no reason to continue on his post as he could not protect the interests of the people of the state.

The protesters blocked roads and national highways by burning tyres and smashed the windshields of trucks, cars, and autorickshaws at many places, including in Guwahati, the police said.

The picketers squatted on the railway tracks at various places in Guwahati and Dibrugarh district, but the movement of trains, including that of the Delhi-bound Rajdhani Express and the Kolkata-bound Kamrup Express, resumed after the Government Railway Police (GRP) personnel removed them from the tracks, railway sources said.

There was no movement of goods-laden trucks on all the national highways, following an economic blockade call issued by the KMSS, sources said.

Private and government vehicles plying on the national highways were being escorted by the police in convoys, they added.

Banners and posters at a BJP office were set ablaze in Golaghat, while a black flag was put up at another office of the saffron party in Lakhimpur district, the police said.

Shops, markets, banks, and other financial institutions kept their shutters down, educational institutions, private offices remained closed and private vehicles including long-distance buses kept off the roads in the Brahmaputra valley, the police and official sources said.

The attendance was thin in government offices as the employees faced difficulty in reaching the workplace in the absence of adequate public transport, the sources said.

The "bandh" also evoked a response in the Barak valley, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced on January 4 that the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 would be passed in Parliament as soon as possible as a penance for past injustices.

Thirty ethnic organisations, besides 69 other groups along with the KMSS, have extended their support to the "bandh".

AASU and NESO chief adviser Samujjal Kumar Bhattacharyya told reporters, "If Meghalaya and Mizoram can adopt a cabinet resolution opposing the bill, why can't Assam do the same?"

"The people of Assam, for the last 70 years since Independence, have been forced by the Centre to agitate for their rights, language, existence, culture, heritage and infrastructure."

Dipankar Nath, the president of AASU, which had led the six-year-long Assam Movement against illegal immigrants, said, "Despite wide opposition to it, the BJP government at the Centre has undemocratically imposed the bill on us as they want to win the (Lok Sabha) election by taking the votes of illegal Bangladeshi immigrants."

The "north-east bandh" called by the NESO is being enforced by its member organisations such as the Mizo Zirlai Pawal (MZP), the All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU), the Khasi Students' Union (KSU), the Garo Students' Union (GSU), the Naga Students' Federation (NSF), the All Manipur Students' Union (AMSU) and the Twipra Students' Federation (TSF).

The "bandh" has hit normal life in Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland, according to reports from these states.

The All Assam Students' Union (AASU) activists clashed with the police when they attempted to ransack a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) office in Dibrugarh.

Agitators clashed with the police, gheraoed Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal's house at his native place in Dibrugarh, blocked national highways and damaged vehicles in Assam during an 11-hour "bandh" called by the AASU to protest against the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Bill. The All Assam Students' Union (AASU) activists clashed with the police when they attempted to ransack a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) office in Dibrugarh, prompting the security forces to resort to lathi-charge and fire rubber bullets to disperse the protestors. Nobody was injured in the incident, the police said. The AASU has called for a statewide "bandh" and it is being supported by the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), which withdrew support to the BJP-led government in Assam on Monday. Opposition Congress, the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) and the Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS) are also supporting the bandh. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 aims to amend the Citizenship Act, 1955 to grant Indian citizenship to those Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians who fled religious persecution in Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan and entered India before December 31, 2014. Normal life was hit in the Brahmaputra valley and was partially affected in the Barak valley due to a "north-east bandh" called separately by the North East Students' Organisation (NESO), an umbrella organisation of students' bodies in the region, of which the AASU is a constituent. The "bandh" called by the NESO on the same issue is being supported by over 100 organisations in Assam as well as in the other north-eastern states. The agitators gheraoed Sonowal's house in his hometown, Dibrugarh, to register their protest against the bill. They raised slogans that the chief minister had no reason to continue on his post as he could not protect the interests of the people of the state. The protesters blocked roads and national highways by burning tyres and smashed the windshields of trucks, cars, and autorickshaws at many places, including in Guwahati, the police said. The picketers squatted on the railway tracks at various places in Guwahati and Dibrugarh district, but the movement of trains, including that of the Delhi-bound Rajdhani Express and the Kolkata-bound Kamrup Express, resumed after the Government Railway Police (GRP) personnel removed them from the tracks, railway sources said. There was no movement of goods-laden trucks on all the national highways, following an economic blockade call issued by the KMSS, sources said. Private and government vehicles plying on the national highways were being escorted by the police in convoys, they added. Banners and posters at a BJP office were set ablaze in Golaghat, while a black flag was put up at another office of the saffron party in Lakhimpur district, the police said. Shops, markets, banks, and other financial institutions kept their shutters down, educational institutions, private offices remained closed and private vehicles including long-distance buses kept off the roads in the Brahmaputra valley, the police and official sources said. The attendance was thin in government offices as the employees faced difficulty in reaching the workplace in the absence of adequate public transport, the sources said. The "bandh" also evoked a response in the Barak valley, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced on January 4 that the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 would be passed in Parliament as soon as possible as a penance for past injustices. Thirty ethnic organisations, besides 69 other groups along with the KMSS, have extended their support to the "bandh". AASU and NESO chief adviser Samujjal Kumar Bhattacharyya told reporters, "If Meghalaya and Mizoram can adopt a cabinet resolution opposing the bill, why can't Assam do the same?" "The people of Assam, for the last 70 years since Independence, have been forced by the Centre to agitate for their rights, language, existence, culture, heritage and infrastructure." Dipankar Nath, the president of AASU, which had led the six-year-long Assam Movement against illegal immigrants, said, "Despite wide opposition to it, the BJP government at the Centre has undemocratically imposed the bill on us as they want to win the (Lok Sabha) election by taking the votes of illegal Bangladeshi immigrants." The "north-east bandh" called by the NESO is being enforced by its member organisations such as the Mizo Zirlai Pawal (MZP), the All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU), the Khasi Students' Union (KSU), the Garo Students' Union (GSU), the Naga Students' Federation (NSF), the All Manipur Students' Union (AMSU) and the Twipra Students' Federation (TSF). The "bandh" has hit normal life in Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland, according to reports from these states.

Bandh against Citizenship Bill hits normal life in Assam, other NE states

Union Cabinet passes Citizenship amendment bill

The Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) decided to pull out of an alliance with the BJP in Assam soon after the union cabinet approved the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-cabinet-clears-citizenship-amendment-bill-to-be-introduced-in-lok-sabha-tuesday-188821">Citizenship Amendment Bill </a>on Monday.

The approval came after the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) chairman Rajendra Agarwala tabled the bill in Lok Sabha. The bill is likely to be passed tomorrow in the Lok Sabha. &nbsp;

The official announcement of the AGP was made by the party president Atul Bora in New Delhi after meeting the union home minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi.

“The bill will make the Assam Accord meaningless. We were against the bill and now that it is being passed, there is no question of being an alliance partner of the BJP. We have been fighting against the bill and will continue to do so to protect the Assamese community. Unfortunately, the Centre approved the bill without even thinking about the people of Assam,” said Bora.

Bora was leading a delegation of AGP members - Keshab Mahanta, Phani Bhushan Choudhury, Ramendra Narayan Kalita and Birendra Prasad Baishya.

The AGP is an electoral ally of the BJP in Assam and also part of the NEDA (North-East Democratic Alliance).

On the other hand, Assam Congress MPs including the president Assam Congress President Ripun Bora lead a protest in front of the Parliament today demanding immediate repeal of the Citizenship Amendment Bill 2016.

Back in Assam, All Assam Students Union (AASU) and 30 other organisations put up protests against the Central government’s move to pass the Citizenship Amendment Bill.

Protestors set alight copies of the bill as a mark of protest across several places in Assam.

The Asom Jatiyatabadi Yuba Chatra Parishad (AJYCP) and Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS) members stripped themselves naked in Assam’s Tinsukia to register their protest against the bill.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 seeks to amend the Citizenship Act, 1955, to grant nationality to people belonging to minority communities — Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians — in Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan after six years of their residence in India.

The Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) decided to pull out of an alliance with the BJP in Assam soon after the union cabinet approved the Citizenship Amendment Bill on Monday.

The Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) decided to pull out of an alliance with the BJP in Assam soon after the union cabinet approved the Citizenship Amendment Bill on Monday. The approval came after the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) chairman Rajendra Agarwala tabled the bill in Lok Sabha. The bill is likely to be passed tomorrow in the Lok Sabha. The official announcement of the AGP was made by the party president Atul Bora in New Delhi after meeting the union home minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi. “The bill will make the Assam Accord meaningless. We were against the bill and now that it is being passed, there is no question of being an alliance partner of the BJP. We have been fighting against the bill and will continue to do so to protect the Assamese community. Unfortunately, the Centre approved the bill without even thinking about the people of Assam,” said Bora. Bora was leading a delegation of AGP members - Keshab Mahanta, Phani Bhushan Choudhury, Ramendra Narayan Kalita and Birendra Prasad Baishya. The AGP is an electoral ally of the BJP in Assam and also part of the NEDA (North-East Democratic Alliance). On the other hand, Assam Congress MPs including the president Assam Congress President Ripun Bora lead a protest in front of the Parliament today demanding immediate repeal of the Citizenship Amendment Bill 2016. Back in Assam, All Assam Students Union (AASU) and 30 other organisations put up protests against the Central government’s move to pass the Citizenship Amendment Bill. Protestors set alight copies of the bill as a mark of protest across several places in Assam. The Asom Jatiyatabadi Yuba Chatra Parishad (AJYCP) and Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS) members stripped themselves naked in Assam’s Tinsukia to register their protest against the bill. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 seeks to amend the Citizenship Act, 1955, to grant nationality to people belonging to minority communities — Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians — in Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan after six years of their residence in India.

AGP pulls out of alliance with BJP in Assam after Union cabinet approves Citizenship Amendment Bill

The Union Cabinet Monday cleared the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/protests-against-citizenship-bill-rock-assam-cm-asks-the-public-to-keep-calm-188444"> redrafted Citizenship Amendment Bill</a>, which seeks to provide Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, officials said.

A meeting of the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, cleared the bill and it is expected to be tabled in Lok Sabha Tuesday, an official privy to the development said.

The move came within hours of the presentation in Lok Sabha of a report of the Joint Parliamentary Committee examining the bill that was first introduced in Parliament in 2016.

Large sections of people in Assam and other northeastern states have been protesting against the bill, saying it would nullify the 1985 Assam Accord under which any foreign national, irrespective of religion, who had entered the state after 1971 should be deported.

The fresh bill seeks to amend the Citizenship Act 1955 to grant Indian nationality to people from minority communities — Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians — from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan after six years of residence in India instead of 12 even if they don't possess any proper documentation.

This was an election promise of the BJP in 2014.

Eight influential students' bodies of the Northeast, besides more than 40 socio-cultural organisations of Assam, have called an 11-hour 'bandh' Tuesday in protest against the central government's move to amend the Citizenship Act.

The JPC report was prepared with a majority vote as opposition members have opposed the move to grant citizenship on the basis of religion saying it is against the Constitution.

The Congress, Trinamool Congress, CPI-M, and a few other parties have been steadfastly opposing the bill claiming that citizenship can't be given on the basis of religion as India is a secular nation.

Some opposition members have even given dissent notes in the report.

Interestingly, BJP's ally Shiv Sena and JD-U have announced that they would oppose the bill in Parliament.

Speaking in Silchar in Assam on Friday, the prime minister reiterated the Centre's commitment to pass the Citizenship Amendment Bill.

"The Citizenship Bill is an atonement of the wrong that was done during India's Partition. I hope this bill is passed soon in Parliament. India will safeguard all who had been victims of the Partition," he said.

A meeting of the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, cleared the bill and it is expected to be tabled in Lok Sabha Tuesday, an official privy to the development said.

The Union Cabinet Monday cleared the redrafted Citizenship Amendment Bill, which seeks to provide Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, officials said. A meeting of the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, cleared the bill and it is expected to be tabled in Lok Sabha Tuesday, an official privy to the development said. The move came within hours of the presentation in Lok Sabha of a report of the Joint Parliamentary Committee examining the bill that was first introduced in Parliament in 2016. Large sections of people in Assam and other northeastern states have been protesting against the bill, saying it would nullify the 1985 Assam Accord under which any foreign national, irrespective of religion, who had entered the state after 1971 should be deported. The fresh bill seeks to amend the Citizenship Act 1955 to grant Indian nationality to people from minority communities — Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians — from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan after six years of residence in India instead of 12 even if they don't possess any proper documentation. This was an election promise of the BJP in 2014. Eight influential students' bodies of the Northeast, besides more than 40 socio-cultural organisations of Assam, have called an 11-hour 'bandh' Tuesday in protest against the central government's move to amend the Citizenship Act. The JPC report was prepared with a majority vote as opposition members have opposed the move to grant citizenship on the basis of religion saying it is against the Constitution. The Congress, Trinamool Congress, CPI-M, and a few other parties have been steadfastly opposing the bill claiming that citizenship can't be given on the basis of religion as India is a secular nation. Some opposition members have even given dissent notes in the report. Interestingly, BJP's ally Shiv Sena and JD-U have announced that they would oppose the bill in Parliament. Speaking in Silchar in Assam on Friday, the prime minister reiterated the Centre's commitment to pass the Citizenship Amendment Bill. "The Citizenship Bill is an atonement of the wrong that was done during India's Partition. I hope this bill is passed soon in Parliament. India will safeguard all who had been victims of the Partition," he said.

Union Cabinet clears Citizenship Amendment Bill, to be introduced in Lok Sabha Tuesday

The controversial Citizenship Amendment Bill may not able to get through during the Winter session of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-mp-goof-up-in-lok-sabha-cites-miners-trapped-in-mizoram-instead-of-meghalaya-186977">Parliamen</a>t which comes to an end on January 8, sources said Sunday.

A meeting of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), which is examining the bill, will be held on Monday to finalise the proposed legislation before being submitted to the Lok Sabha.

The bill seeks to amend the Citizenship Act, 1955, to grant Indian nationality to people belonging to minority communities -- Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians -- in Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan after six years of residence in India instead of 12, even if they don't possess any proper document.

This was an election promise of the BJP in 2014.

"The bill is likely to be tabled in the Lok Sabha either on January 7 or 8. There is very little time for debate before it is passed in the Lower House and then in the Rajya Sabha," a source privy to the deliberations told PTI.

However, in Monday's meeting the BJP may have its way in incorporating some "contentious" provisions in the proposed legislation.

JPC chairman Rajendra Agrawal said the committee will try to finalise the bill through consensus after examining every clause.

"However, if we cannot reach a consensus, we will go for voting, which is a standard procedure for Parliament," he told PTI.

The BJP has 14 MPs, including Agrawal, in the 30-member panel. The Congress has four members while the Trinamool Congress and the Biju Janata Dal have two MPs each. The Shiv Sena, JD(U), TRS, TDP, CPI(M), AIADMK, SP, BSP have one member each in the panel.

The Congress, Trinamool Congress, CPI(M) and a few other parties have been steadfastly opposing the bill claiming that citizenship can't be given on basis of religion.

"If there is voting, the BJP is likely to have its way in incorporating some contentious clauses. Monday's meeting is very crucial," sources said.

In the last meeting of the JPC, held on November 27, opposition members moved clause-by-clause amendments and one Congress MP sought removal of Bangladesh from the purview of the proposed legislation.

Interestingly, an NDA member suggested that Assam, where the bill received strong opposition, should be excluded from the ambit of the legislation.

Various members from opposition parties have been asserting that&nbsp; 
citizenship is a constitutional provision and it cannot be based on religion, as India is a secular nation.

Rather than resolving the situation in Assam, this bill is making the condition more volatile in the already tense state, an opposition member in the panel had said.

Echoing similar sentiments, a Congress member said if all the proposed amendments come into force, then the Centre has to nullify the Assam Accord under which anyone entering the state illegally after March 1971, should be declared foreigner and deported.

Agrawal said they were bound to submit the report in this session as in all practical purposes, Winter session is the last session of the current Lok Sabha.

A large section of people and organisations in the northeast have opposed the bill saying it will nullify the provisions of the Assam Accord of 1985, which fixed March 24, 1971, as the cut-off date for deportation of illegal immigrants irrespective of religion.

Even the governments of Meghalaya and Mizoram have strongly opposed the bill and adopted resolutions against it.

The committee has already taken six extensions from the Lok Sabha Speaker. Last time it had sought time for the presentation of the report was on the "first day of the last week of the Winter Session, 2018".

During the course of its examination and study visits, the committee met a cross-section of people in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Assam and Meghalaya and heard views of organisations, individuals, experts and others over the issue.

The committee also heard the views of the chief secretaries and police chiefs of Assam, Bihar, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Maharashtra and West Bengal.&nbsp;

The controversial Citizenship Amendment Bill may not able to get through during the Winter session of Parliament which comes to an end on January 8, sources said Sunday.

The controversial Citizenship Amendment Bill may not able to get through during the Winter session of Parliament which comes to an end on January 8, sources said Sunday. A meeting of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), which is examining the bill, will be held on Monday to finalise the proposed legislation before being submitted to the Lok Sabha. The bill seeks to amend the Citizenship Act, 1955, to grant Indian nationality to people belonging to minority communities -- Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians -- in Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan after six years of residence in India instead of 12, even if they don't possess any proper document. This was an election promise of the BJP in 2014. "The bill is likely to be tabled in the Lok Sabha either on January 7 or 8. There is very little time for debate before it is passed in the Lower House and then in the Rajya Sabha," a source privy to the deliberations told PTI. However, in Monday's meeting the BJP may have its way in incorporating some "contentious" provisions in the proposed legislation. JPC chairman Rajendra Agrawal said the committee will try to finalise the bill through consensus after examining every clause. "However, if we cannot reach a consensus, we will go for voting, which is a standard procedure for Parliament," he told PTI. The BJP has 14 MPs, including Agrawal, in the 30-member panel. The Congress has four members while the Trinamool Congress and the Biju Janata Dal have two MPs each. The Shiv Sena, JD(U), TRS, TDP, CPI(M), AIADMK, SP, BSP have one member each in the panel. The Congress, Trinamool Congress, CPI(M) and a few other parties have been steadfastly opposing the bill claiming that citizenship can't be given on basis of religion. "If there is voting, the BJP is likely to have its way in incorporating some contentious clauses. Monday's meeting is very crucial," sources said. In the last meeting of the JPC, held on November 27, opposition members moved clause-by-clause amendments and one Congress MP sought removal of Bangladesh from the purview of the proposed legislation. Interestingly, an NDA member suggested that Assam, where the bill received strong opposition, should be excluded from the ambit of the legislation. Various members from opposition parties have been asserting that citizenship is a constitutional provision and it cannot be based on religion, as India is a secular nation. Rather than resolving the situation in Assam, this bill is making the condition more volatile in the already tense state, an opposition member in the panel had said. Echoing similar sentiments, a Congress member said if all the proposed amendments come into force, then the Centre has to nullify the Assam Accord under which anyone entering the state illegally after March 1971, should be declared foreigner and deported. Agrawal said they were bound to submit the report in this session as in all practical purposes, Winter session is the last session of the current Lok Sabha. A large section of people and organisations in the northeast have opposed the bill saying it will nullify the provisions of the Assam Accord of 1985, which fixed March 24, 1971, as the cut-off date for deportation of illegal immigrants irrespective of religion. Even the governments of Meghalaya and Mizoram have strongly opposed the bill and adopted resolutions against it. The committee has already taken six extensions from the Lok Sabha Speaker. Last time it had sought time for the presentation of the report was on the "first day of the last week of the Winter Session, 2018". During the course of its examination and study visits, the committee met a cross-section of people in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Assam and Meghalaya and heard views of organisations, individuals, experts and others over the issue. The committee also heard the views of the chief secretaries and police chiefs of Assam, Bihar, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Maharashtra and West Bengal.

Citizenship amendment bill may not get through in Winter session