West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday demanded that an "impartial organisation" like United Nations should form a committee to see how many people were in favour of Citizenship Amendment Act.

"Let there be an impartial organisation like United Nations or Human Rights Commission ...form a committee to see how many people are in favour or against the Citizenship Amendment Act," she said while addressing a gathering.

She also accused the BJP of "dividing" the country and said that the protests against the amended Citizenship Act will not stop unless the government withdraws the legislation, which aims to grant citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from three countries in India's neighbourhood.

"Suddenly after 73 years of Independence, we have to prove that we are Indian citizens. Where was BJP's at that time? BJP is dividing the country. Don't stop your protest because we have to get CAA revoked... Protests will get stronger as the day passes," Banerjee said while speaking at a protest.

"You have won 38 per cent vote after doing so much and many of them are against you. It's bad luck for us that we have to give our fathers and mothers identity. All are citizens and suddenly who gave this idea that we have to give proof of it... They are doing dirty politics," she added.

Meanwhile, West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar asked Banerjee to withdraw her reported remarks.

"I appeal CM Mamata Bannerjee to please withdraw her reported statement 'Let there be an impartial organisation like United Nations or National Human Rights Commission hold a referendum to see how many people are in favour or against Citizenship (Amendment) Act'", he said in a tweet.

Banerjee has been vehemently opposing the amended Citizenship Act and has said that she will not allow the legislation to be implemented in West Bengal. Several other non-BJP chief ministers have also echoed similar views.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday demanded that an "impartial organisation" like United Nations should form a committee to see how many people were in favour of Citizenship Amendment Act.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday demanded that an "impartial organisation" like United Nations should form a committee to see how many people were in favour of Citizenship Amendment Act. "Let there be an impartial organisation like United Nations or Human Rights Commission ...form a committee to see how many people are in favour or against the Citizenship Amendment Act," she said while addressing a gathering. She also accused the BJP of "dividing" the country and said that the protests against the amended Citizenship Act will not stop unless the government withdraws the legislation, which aims to grant citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from three countries in India's neighbourhood. "Suddenly after 73 years of Independence, we have to prove that we are Indian citizens. Where was BJP's at that time? BJP is dividing the country. Don't stop your protest because we have to get CAA revoked... Protests will get stronger as the day passes," Banerjee said while speaking at a protest. "You have won 38 per cent vote after doing so much and many of them are against you. It's bad luck for us that we have to give our fathers and mothers identity. All are citizens and suddenly who gave this idea that we have to give proof of it... They are doing dirty politics," she added. Meanwhile, West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar asked Banerjee to withdraw her reported remarks. "I appeal CM Mamata Bannerjee to please withdraw her reported statement 'Let there be an impartial organisation like United Nations or National Human Rights Commission hold a referendum to see how many people are in favour or against Citizenship (Amendment) Act'", he said in a tweet. Banerjee has been vehemently opposing the amended Citizenship Act and has said that she will not allow the legislation to be implemented in West Bengal. Several other non-BJP chief ministers have also echoed similar views.

Impartial organisation like UN should form panel to see how many people favour Citizenship Amendment Act: Mamata

The protests against India's Citizenship Amendment Act has sparked reactions by some Bollywood stars while the A-listers stayed mum.

This should be a good thing in an ideal world, but we don't live in an ideal world.

The voices we hear are heavily politicised. The conflict seems intractable and has reached the courts.

The Supreme Court refused to stay the amended law and will hear the case next month. But politics has turned a sensitive issue into a religious divide.

On WION Edit, we explore what this means for India.

The apex court issued notices to all the petitioners challenging the citizenship law. A three-judge bench headed by CJI Bobde asked the Centre to file the response by the second week of January.

The rules of the law are yet to framed, and there is no question of a stay on something that has been passed in both the Houses of Parliament.

The court also asked the government to publish details of the act in the media so that people know the specifics clearly. This should calm frayed nerves, but it hasn't.

Politicians on both sides, for and against the Act - are stirring the emotions with polarising speeches.

If the home minister spoke about nation-wide NRC, the opposition is projecting a dire situation for the Muslims, &nbsp;talking about General Dyer, Jallianwala Bagh and the possibility of riots.

If politicians keep their free speech responsibly, the protests will continue to be protests,&nbsp;but the political class is making the discourse poisonous.

Any rise in communal tensions can lead the country to a dangerous path, and thus, political parties should stop seeking mileage from this unrest.

Let there be protests, and let there be peace in those protests. India has a judiciary for a reason. If you disagree go to the courts. Also, instead of 'identifying protesters by their clothes', the government should try to address their concerns.

Student protests are a part of democracy. The biggest political movements the world over have originated in universities, but letting these protests degenerate into violent outbreaks is unacceptable. 
 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)&nbsp;

The protests against India's Citizenship Amendment Act has sparked reactions by some Bollywood stars while the A-listers stayed mum. This should be a good thing in an ideal world, but we don't live in an ideal world.

The protests against India's Citizenship Amendment Act has sparked reactions by some Bollywood stars while the A-listers stayed mum. This should be a good thing in an ideal world, but we don't live in an ideal world. The voices we hear are heavily politicised. The conflict seems intractable and has reached the courts. The Supreme Court refused to stay the amended law and will hear the case next month. But politics has turned a sensitive issue into a religious divide. On WION Edit, we explore what this means for India. The apex court issued notices to all the petitioners challenging the citizenship law. A three-judge bench headed by CJI Bobde asked the Centre to file the response by the second week of January. The rules of the law are yet to framed, and there is no question of a stay on something that has been passed in both the Houses of Parliament. The court also asked the government to publish details of the act in the media so that people know the specifics clearly. This should calm frayed nerves, but it hasn't. Politicians on both sides, for and against the Act - are stirring the emotions with polarising speeches. If the home minister spoke about nation-wide NRC, the opposition is projecting a dire situation for the Muslims, talking about General Dyer, Jallianwala Bagh and the possibility of riots. If politicians keep their free speech responsibly, the protests will continue to be protests, but the political class is making the discourse poisonous. Any rise in communal tensions can lead the country to a dangerous path, and thus, political parties should stop seeking mileage from this unrest. Let there be protests, and let there be peace in those protests. India has a judiciary for a reason. If you disagree go to the courts. Also, instead of 'identifying protesters by their clothes', the government should try to address their concerns. Student protests are a part of democracy. The biggest political movements the world over have originated in universities, but letting these protests degenerate into violent outbreaks is unacceptable. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Citizenship Amendment Act - when actors turned activists

Protesters remained undeterred by the imposition of Prohibitory Orders in the city of Bengaluru as they took to the streets from Thursday morning to demonstrate against the contentious Citizenship Amendment Act.&nbsp;

Despite the imposition of Section 144 in the city, that prevents the gathering of groups of more than 4 members in public places, protesters gathered with placards and roses for what they called a peaceful demonstration. Several agitators were detained, including noted historian Ramachandra Guha.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
"The government is giving these orders to arrest protesters. We are protesting peacefully against this discriminatory Act passed by the Central Government. But look at what is happening. Do you see any violence here? Why are the police behaving in such a manner?" said Guha before being taken away by the police. Several civic activists and students were also detained as police were given orders to not allow big gathering up until December 21.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Rajeev Gowda, Rajya Sabha MP has filed a PIL in the Karnataka High Court saying the petitioners have the right to protest and assemble peacefully which is protected under Article 19 (1) of the constitution.&nbsp;

"It is a total abuse of power. The commissioner has been badly advised. The Home Secretary should have advised him properly. Section 144 has to be imposed only when there is an incitement for violence. None of that has happened here. People are peacefully protesting. People have come here to exercise their right to protest under the Constitution and to say the Constitution matters to them. If the parliament has passed a bill without discussing with the people of India, people are upset. That's why they are out and if you go and arrest them, how are you going to call this a democracy anymore. This is declaring an emergency without calling it that," said environmentalist Leo Saldanha.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Protesters belonging to a multitude of civic organisations continued to pour into the city's Townhall to participate in the demonstrations.&nbsp;

Dramatic scenes were witnessed as many of the peaceful protesters were forcibly carried into police vehicles and detained at different stations.&nbsp;

"We came here from the National Law School of India for a silent protest. We are sitting silently across the road. Around 30 of my colleagues were loaded into a bus and taken away. I do not know where they are. One of them was manhandled. We were not doing anything," said Hamza, a student from the National Law School of India.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
IIM Bangalore has decided to stage a unique agitation to circumvent Section 144 imposed by the city police. At any point in time, just three protesters will stage a demonstration outside the IIM-B gates and the protesters will rotate every few minutes.&nbsp;

"Section 144 allows groups of 3-4 to take turns to protest. Some of us are organizing a protest where three IIM-B members will take turns to protest. We will be at the IIM-B main gate at 6:00 pm. At any given time only three of us are going to be outside the main gate. We will be within the bounds of Section 144 and yet register our protest against the divisive CAA-NRC, the police brutality against Jamia and AMU students, and the arbitrary imposition of "144" and arrests across the country,’ read a mail circulated within the IIM-B community.&nbsp;

Protests erupted in Kalburgi and Mangalore districts as well despite the prohibitory orders in place. Protesters are awaiting the hearing on the PIL against the imposition of Section 144 which they believe curtails their right to peaceful demonstration and free speech.&nbsp;

Protesters remained undeterred by the imposition of Prohibitory Orders in the city of Bengaluru as they took to the streets from Thursday morning to demonstrate against the contentious Citizenship Amendment Act.

Protesters remained undeterred by the imposition of Prohibitory Orders in the city of Bengaluru as they took to the streets from Thursday morning to demonstrate against the contentious Citizenship Amendment Act. Despite the imposition of Section 144 in the city, that prevents the gathering of groups of more than 4 members in public places, protesters gathered with placards and roses for what they called a peaceful demonstration. Several agitators were detained, including noted historian Ramachandra Guha. "The government is giving these orders to arrest protesters. We are protesting peacefully against this discriminatory Act passed by the Central Government. But look at what is happening. Do you see any violence here? Why are the police behaving in such a manner?" said Guha before being taken away by the police. Several civic activists and students were also detained as police were given orders to not allow big gathering up until December 21. Rajeev Gowda, Rajya Sabha MP has filed a PIL in the Karnataka High Court saying the petitioners have the right to protest and assemble peacefully which is protected under Article 19 (1) of the constitution. "It is a total abuse of power. The commissioner has been badly advised. The Home Secretary should have advised him properly. Section 144 has to be imposed only when there is an incitement for violence. None of that has happened here. People are peacefully protesting. People have come here to exercise their right to protest under the Constitution and to say the Constitution matters to them. If the parliament has passed a bill without discussing with the people of India, people are upset. That's why they are out and if you go and arrest them, how are you going to call this a democracy anymore. This is declaring an emergency without calling it that," said environmentalist Leo Saldanha. Protesters belonging to a multitude of civic organisations continued to pour into the city's Townhall to participate in the demonstrations. Dramatic scenes were witnessed as many of the peaceful protesters were forcibly carried into police vehicles and detained at different stations. "We came here from the National Law School of India for a silent protest. We are sitting silently across the road. Around 30 of my colleagues were loaded into a bus and taken away. I do not know where they are. One of them was manhandled. We were not doing anything," said Hamza, a student from the National Law School of India. IIM Bangalore has decided to stage a unique agitation to circumvent Section 144 imposed by the city police. At any point in time, just three protesters will stage a demonstration outside the IIM-B gates and the protesters will rotate every few minutes. "Section 144 allows groups of 3-4 to take turns to protest. Some of us are organizing a protest where three IIM-B members will take turns to protest. We will be at the IIM-B main gate at 6:00 pm. At any given time only three of us are going to be outside the main gate. We will be within the bounds of Section 144 and yet register our protest against the divisive CAA-NRC, the police brutality against Jamia and AMU students, and the arbitrary imposition of "144" and arrests across the country,’ read a mail circulated within the IIM-B community. Protests erupted in Kalburgi and Mangalore districts as well despite the prohibitory orders in place. Protesters are awaiting the hearing on the PIL against the imposition of Section 144 which they believe curtails their right to peaceful demonstration and free speech.

Anti-CAA protests: Bengaluru erupts, defies section 144

Sunil Bharti Mittal, founder and chairman of telecom service provider Bharti Airtel on Thursday confirmed that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/calls-internet-services-suspended-in-parts-of-delhi-amid-protests-over-citizenship-amendment-act-269120">internet services have been blocked in some parts of Delhi</a>.

"We are bound by the order of the government. We are following their order," Mittal told media today.&nbsp;

Bharti Airtel's customer care on Thursday informed its customers that it had suspended voice calls, SMS and internet services in parts of the national capital in the wake of protests across the city against the Citizenship Amendment Act.&nbsp;

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Sunil Bharti Mittal, Founder Chairman, Bharti Airtel, on internet services halted in some parts of Delhi : We are bound by the order of the government. We are following their order. <a href="https://t.co/Q7Qtd6u97H">pic.twitter.com/Q7Qtd6u97H</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1207597651140599808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The new law seeks to grant citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh.&nbsp;

The entire country has been gripped by anti-CAA protests after parts of northeast India, West Bengal and the national capital witnessed violent protests.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Sunil Bharti Mittal, founder and chairman of telecom service provider Bharti Airtel on Thursday confirmed that internet services have been blocked in some parts of Delhi.

Sunil Bharti Mittal, founder and chairman of telecom service provider Bharti Airtel on Thursday confirmed that internet services have been blocked in some parts of Delhi. "We are bound by the order of the government. We are following their order," Mittal told media today. Bharti Airtel's customer care on Thursday informed its customers that it had suspended voice calls, SMS and internet services in parts of the national capital in the wake of protests across the city against the Citizenship Amendment Act. Sunil Bharti Mittal, Founder Chairman, Bharti Airtel, on internet services halted in some parts of Delhi : We are bound by the order of the government. We are following their order. pic.twitter.com/Q7Qtd6u97H — ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2019 × The new law seeks to grant citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh. The entire country has been gripped by anti-CAA protests after parts of northeast India, West Bengal and the national capital witnessed violent protests.

We're following government order: Bharti Airtel chairman on blocking telecom services in parts of Delhi

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/every-indian-is-obliged-to-abide-by-law-west-bengal-governor-on-citizenship-amendment-act-268306">West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar</a> on Sunday said that he hopes that West Bengal Chief Minister at least withdraws advertisements against Citizenship Amendment Act implementation in the state.&nbsp;

"I am sure the CM will at least withdraw advertisements (ads by West Bengal government stating the Citizenship Amendment Act and NRC will not be implemented in the state), they are unconstitutional and it is criminal use of public funds," he told media today.&nbsp;

He also urged the people of the state to help those in distress.&nbsp;

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West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar: I am sure the CM will at least withdraw advertisements (ads by West Bengal government stating <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CitizenshipAmendmentAct?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CitizenshipAmendmentAct</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NRC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NRC</a> will not be implemented in the state), they are unconstitutional and it is criminal use of public funds. <a href="https://t.co/Br00awM050">https://t.co/Br00awM050</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1206190722224803841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"I appeal to the people of the state, to do everything they can do to lend a helping hand to people in distress and to maintain peace," he said.&nbsp;

Dhankhar on Saturday said if the Parliament has passed a law, then every Indian is obliged to follow it.

Speaking to media regarding Citizenship (Amendment) Act, Dhankhar said, "If the Parliament in its wisdom has given us a law, which is the rule of the land, everyone particularly those like me and others who hold Constitutional positions has to believe in it. Every Indian is obliged to believe in the law laid down by the Indian Parliament."

"This law is applicable all over the country. I can't say I will not go by it. No one else can say it. If anyone has taken oath under the Constitution, he can't say it will be challenged," he said.

"I appeal to everyone, please don't politicise the issue. It is an issue which means the rule of law. Society and democracy can survive and prosper only if we believe in the rule of law," the Governor said.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar on Sunday said that he hopes that West Bengal Chief Minister at least withdraws advertisements against Citizenship Amendment Act implementation in the state.

West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar on Sunday said that he hopes that West Bengal Chief Minister at least withdraws advertisements against Citizenship Amendment Act implementation in the state. "I am sure the CM will at least withdraw advertisements (ads by West Bengal government stating the Citizenship Amendment Act and NRC will not be implemented in the state), they are unconstitutional and it is criminal use of public funds," he told media today. He also urged the people of the state to help those in distress. West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar: I am sure the CM will at least withdraw advertisements (ads by West Bengal government stating #CitizenshipAmendmentAct & #NRC will not be implemented in the state), they are unconstitutional and it is criminal use of public funds. https://t.co/Br00awM050 — ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2019 × "I appeal to the people of the state, to do everything they can do to lend a helping hand to people in distress and to maintain peace," he said. Dhankhar on Saturday said if the Parliament has passed a law, then every Indian is obliged to follow it. Speaking to media regarding Citizenship (Amendment) Act, Dhankhar said, "If the Parliament in its wisdom has given us a law, which is the rule of the land, everyone particularly those like me and others who hold Constitutional positions has to believe in it. Every Indian is obliged to believe in the law laid down by the Indian Parliament." "This law is applicable all over the country. I can't say I will not go by it. No one else can say it. If anyone has taken oath under the Constitution, he can't say it will be challenged," he said. "I appeal to everyone, please don't politicise the issue. It is an issue which means the rule of law. Society and democracy can survive and prosper only if we believe in the rule of law," the Governor said. (With inputs from ANI)

Hope CM withdraws advertisements against Citizenship Act implementation: West Bengal Governor

Three Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses were set on fire near Bharat Nagar area as demonstrations against Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in the national capital turned violent on Sunday.

Huge plumes of smoke were seen billowing out of the buses as flames engulfed them.

Protestors also vandalised a fire tender that was sent to douse the fire and also injured two firemen inside the vehicle."One fire tender which was rushed to douse bus fire stopped and damaged by the students. Two firemen were also injured," said Delhi Fire Service (DFS), Director, Atul Garg.

Damage to other buses and vehicles was also caused by the protestors.

Police have, meanwhile, taken control of the situation and fire tenders have been rushed to control the damage caused in different areas.

Earlier today, protestors, including students of Jamia Milia Islamia University, had carried out demonstrations in the Kalindi Kunj area against the CAA.

The Delhi Traffic Police had closed the roads on which protests were being held in the national capital and kept on informing the public about the situation on the roads which were blocked by the protestors.

"Traffic movement is closed from Sarita Vihar to Kalindi Kunj due to protest/demonstration at Shaheen Bagh. Traffic is diverted from Sarita Vihar towards Road no 13A and from Apollo to Road no 13," the tweet from the official handle of the Delhi Traffic Police read.

"Mathura Road opposite New Friends Colony both carriageways have been blocked by demonstrators," another tweet by the Traffic Police read.

Earlier, scores of students from the city's Jamia Millia Islamia staged a protest against the amended Citizenship Act on Saturday.

A day earlier on Friday, students protest left as many as 12 policemen injured.According to police, the protestors pelted stones at policemen who were deployed to control the situation.

The CAA seeks to grant Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Parsi and Christian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Three Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses were set on fire near Bharat Nagar area as demonstrations against Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in the national capital turned violent on Sunday.

Three Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses were set on fire near Bharat Nagar area as demonstrations against Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in the national capital turned violent on Sunday. Huge plumes of smoke were seen billowing out of the buses as flames engulfed them. Protestors also vandalised a fire tender that was sent to douse the fire and also injured two firemen inside the vehicle."One fire tender which was rushed to douse bus fire stopped and damaged by the students. Two firemen were also injured," said Delhi Fire Service (DFS), Director, Atul Garg. Damage to other buses and vehicles was also caused by the protestors. Police have, meanwhile, taken control of the situation and fire tenders have been rushed to control the damage caused in different areas. Earlier today, protestors, including students of Jamia Milia Islamia University, had carried out demonstrations in the Kalindi Kunj area against the CAA. The Delhi Traffic Police had closed the roads on which protests were being held in the national capital and kept on informing the public about the situation on the roads which were blocked by the protestors. "Traffic movement is closed from Sarita Vihar to Kalindi Kunj due to protest/demonstration at Shaheen Bagh. Traffic is diverted from Sarita Vihar towards Road no 13A and from Apollo to Road no 13," the tweet from the official handle of the Delhi Traffic Police read. "Mathura Road opposite New Friends Colony both carriageways have been blocked by demonstrators," another tweet by the Traffic Police read. Earlier, scores of students from the city's Jamia Millia Islamia staged a protest against the amended Citizenship Act on Saturday. A day earlier on Friday, students protest left as many as 12 policemen injured.According to police, the protestors pelted stones at policemen who were deployed to control the situation. The CAA seeks to grant Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Parsi and Christian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

Delhi: DTC buses torched as protests against Citizenship Act turn violent

Internet services have been suspended temporarily as a precautionary measure in some districts of West Bengal, sources said.

The internet was suspended in some parts of the districts of Uttar Dinajpur, Malda, Murshidabad, Howrah, North 24 Parganas ( Basirhat and Barasat subdivisions) and South 24 Parganas ( Baruipur and Canning subdivisions).

This came amid protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 in several parts of West Bengal.

The Act seeks to grant Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.&nbsp;

Internet services have been suspended temporarily as a precautionary measure in some districts of West Bengal, sources said. The internet was suspended in some parts of the districts of Uttar Dinajpur, Malda, Murshidabad, Howrah, North 24 Parganas ( Basirhat and Barasat subdivisions) and South 24 Parganas ( Baruipur and Canning subdivisions).

Internet services have been suspended temporarily as a precautionary measure in some districts of West Bengal, sources said. The internet was suspended in some parts of the districts of Uttar Dinajpur, Malda, Murshidabad, Howrah, North 24 Parganas ( Basirhat and Barasat subdivisions) and South 24 Parganas ( Baruipur and Canning subdivisions). This came amid protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 in several parts of West Bengal. The Act seeks to grant Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

Internet services suspended temporarily in some parts of West Bengal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the Citizenship Amendment Bill was passed in both the Houses of Parliament to "give respect to those who fled to India and were forced to live as refugees".

The prime minister's remarks came during an address in Dumka, Jharkhand.&nbsp;

"Congress and their allies are creating a ruckus. They are doing arson because they did not get their way. Those who are creating violence can be identified by their clothes," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Dumka, Jharkhand: To give respect to those (minority communities from Pakistan, Afghanistan, &amp; Bangladesh) who fled to India &amp; were forced to live as refugees, both houses of parliament passed the law (Citizenship Amendment). <a href="https://t.co/IVa0SDCg5Q">pic.twitter.com/IVa0SDCg5Q</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1206143633994350593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The prime minister said the Congress party and their allies are giving silent support to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assam-3-dead-27-injured-till-now-in-protests-over-citizenship-268360">incidents of violence over Citizenship Amendment Act</a>.&nbsp;

"These scenes are strengthening the country's confidence that Modi, Parliament and the government have saved the country by bringing the Act," he stated.&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Dumka, Jharkhand: Congress &amp; their allies are creating a ruckus. They are doing arson because they did not get their way. Those who are creating violence can be identified by their clothes itself. <a href="https://t.co/UDb7gDJg6S">https://t.co/UDb7gDJg6S</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1206145414107295745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"For the first time, the Congress party has done what Pakistan has been doing for long. What can be more shameful than that? Will any Indian stage a demonstration outside any Indian embassy in other countries," asked Modi, while addressing an election rally.

As a part of its Bharat Bachao Rally, the Congress party staged protests outside Indian embassies across the world to highlight the problem of unemployment, slump in the economy, and distressed farmers in the country on Saturday.&nbsp;

Parts of the northeast, states like Nagaland and Meghalaya, are facing curfew as unrest prevails over the Citizenship Amendment Act.&nbsp;

Protest have also gripped the national capital and parts of West Bengal.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the Citizenship Amendment Bill was passed in both the Houses of Parliament to "give respect to those who fled to India and were forced to live as refugees".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the Citizenship Amendment Bill was passed in both the Houses of Parliament to "give respect to those who fled to India and were forced to live as refugees". The prime minister's remarks came during an address in Dumka, Jharkhand. "Congress and their allies are creating a ruckus. They are doing arson because they did not get their way. Those who are creating violence can be identified by their clothes," PM Modi said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Dumka, Jharkhand: To give respect to those (minority communities from Pakistan, Afghanistan, & Bangladesh) who fled to India & were forced to live as refugees, both houses of parliament passed the law (Citizenship Amendment). pic.twitter.com/IVa0SDCg5Q — ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2019 × The prime minister said the Congress party and their allies are giving silent support to the incidents of violence over Citizenship Amendment Act. "These scenes are strengthening the country's confidence that Modi, Parliament and the government have saved the country by bringing the Act," he stated. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Dumka, Jharkhand: Congress & their allies are creating a ruckus. They are doing arson because they did not get their way. Those who are creating violence can be identified by their clothes itself. https://t.co/UDb7gDJg6S — ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2019 × "For the first time, the Congress party has done what Pakistan has been doing for long. What can be more shameful than that? Will any Indian stage a demonstration outside any Indian embassy in other countries," asked Modi, while addressing an election rally. As a part of its Bharat Bachao Rally, the Congress party staged protests outside Indian embassies across the world to highlight the problem of unemployment, slump in the economy, and distressed farmers in the country on Saturday. Parts of the northeast, states like Nagaland and Meghalaya, are facing curfew as unrest prevails over the Citizenship Amendment Act. Protest have also gripped the national capital and parts of West Bengal.

Citizenship Amendment Bill was passed to give respect to those who fled to India as refugees: PM Modi 

Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said that the central government was committed to safeguarding cultural, social and linguistic identity of people of the northeast.

"Culture, language, social identity, and political rights of our brothers and sisters from the northeast will remain intact. It is the responsibility of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government. Now that we've brought the Citizenship Amendment Act, some are trying to incite violence in the Northeast," he said at an election rally here.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured people of the northeast on Thursday that they had nothing to worry after the passage of the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill.

He gave an assurance that no one can take away rights, unique identity and beautiful culture of the people in the northeast and it will continue to flourish and grow.

The Act provides citizenship to non-Muslim refugees of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who fled religious persecution and arrived in India until December 31, 2014.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said that the central government was committed to safeguarding cultural, social and linguistic identity of people of the northeast.

Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said that the central government was committed to safeguarding cultural, social and linguistic identity of people of the northeast. "Culture, language, social identity, and political rights of our brothers and sisters from the northeast will remain intact. It is the responsibility of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government. Now that we've brought the Citizenship Amendment Act, some are trying to incite violence in the Northeast," he said at an election rally here. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured people of the northeast on Thursday that they had nothing to worry after the passage of the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill. He gave an assurance that no one can take away rights, unique identity and beautiful culture of the people in the northeast and it will continue to flourish and grow. The Act provides citizenship to non-Muslim refugees of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who fled religious persecution and arrived in India until December 31, 2014.

Culture, language, political rights of people of northeast will remain intact: Amit Shah

The administration in Assam's Guwahati relaxed the curfew imposed in the wake of huge protests against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/applicable-to-all-government-sources-on-states-denying-implementation-of-citizenship-amendment-act-268105">Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019 </a>for seven hours on Saturday.&nbsp;

Assam is the epicentre of the uproar in the Northeast and the curfew in Guwahati will be lifted from 9 am to 4 pm. Earlier, on Thursday, demonstrations were peaceful in Assam after two days of intensified violence where two people were also killed.&nbsp;

Although, suspension of mobile Internet services was extended for another 48 hours in 10 districts of Assam.

On Thursday, the demonstrations against the Bill reached other parts of India, including New Delhi, West Bengal and southern India.

In Delhi, at least 50 students of Jamia Millia Islamia (JMU) were detained by police following incidents of violence between police and protesters.&nbsp;

The people of northeast are angry over BIll's provision to give citizenship to migrants coming from other countries.&nbsp;

The President Ram Nath Kovind gave his approval to the Bill on Thursday, signing it into law.&nbsp;

The United States and the United Kingdom have earlier issued <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-issues-travel-alert-for-citizens-amid-protests-over-citizenship-amendment-act-268205">travel advisories </a>for tourists from their respective countries to "exercise caution" if they intend to travel to violence-hit northeast India.&nbsp;

On Friday, Japanese PM Shinzo Abe also postponed his visit to India that was scheduled on December 15. It was expected that Abe's trip was planned in the northeast region.&nbsp;

The citizenship bill provides citizenship to migrants coming to India of Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities till December 31, 2014, from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan due to religious persecution.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The administration in Assam's Guwahati relaxed the curfew imposed in the wake of huge protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019 for seven hours on Saturday.

The administration in Assam's Guwahati relaxed the curfew imposed in the wake of huge protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019 for seven hours on Saturday. Assam is the epicentre of the uproar in the Northeast and the curfew in Guwahati will be lifted from 9 am to 4 pm. Earlier, on Thursday, demonstrations were peaceful in Assam after two days of intensified violence where two people were also killed. Although, suspension of mobile Internet services was extended for another 48 hours in 10 districts of Assam. On Thursday, the demonstrations against the Bill reached other parts of India, including New Delhi, West Bengal and southern India. In Delhi, at least 50 students of Jamia Millia Islamia (JMU) were detained by police following incidents of violence between police and protesters. The people of northeast are angry over BIll's provision to give citizenship to migrants coming from other countries. The President Ram Nath Kovind gave his approval to the Bill on Thursday, signing it into law. The United States and the United Kingdom have earlier issued travel advisories for tourists from their respective countries to "exercise caution" if they intend to travel to violence-hit northeast India. On Friday, Japanese PM Shinzo Abe also postponed his visit to India that was scheduled on December 15. It was expected that Abe's trip was planned in the northeast region. The citizenship bill provides citizenship to migrants coming to India of Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities till December 31, 2014, from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan due to religious persecution.

Curfew relaxed for seven hours in Assam's Guwahati

In view of the protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act 2019, trains services in Kolkata have severely been affected.

People of Kolkata staged a protest on railway tracks against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act. The train services on New Farakka - Azimganj and Rampurhat - Gumani sections have been cancelled.

The trains cancelled for December 14 include 15721 UP Digha - New Jalpaiguri Paharia Express, 13142 DN New Alipurduar - Sealdah Teesta Torsa Express and 13146 DN Radhikapur - Kolkata express.13141 UP Sealdah - New Alipurduar Teesta Torsa Express, 13465 UP/13466 DN Howrah - Malda - Howrah Intercity Express, 13145 UP Kolkata - Radhikapur Express have been cancelled for December 15. Train no. 13033 UP Howrah - Katihar Express, 12517 UP Kolkata - Guwahati Garib Rath Express, 13142 DN New Alipurduar - Sealdah Teesta Torsa Express for December 15 have also been cancelled.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, provides Indian citizenship to non-Muslim refugees of Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan who arrived in India before December 31, 2014.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill was passed from Parliament earlier this week and became an Act with Presidential assent on November 12.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In view of the protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act 2019, trains services in Kolkata have severely been affected. People of Kolkata staged a protest on railway tracks against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act.

In view of the protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act 2019, trains services in Kolkata have severely been affected. People of Kolkata staged a protest on railway tracks against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act. The train services on New Farakka - Azimganj and Rampurhat - Gumani sections have been cancelled. The trains cancelled for December 14 include 15721 UP Digha - New Jalpaiguri Paharia Express, 13142 DN New Alipurduar - Sealdah Teesta Torsa Express and 13146 DN Radhikapur - Kolkata express.13141 UP Sealdah - New Alipurduar Teesta Torsa Express, 13465 UP/13466 DN Howrah - Malda - Howrah Intercity Express, 13145 UP Kolkata - Radhikapur Express have been cancelled for December 15. Train no. 13033 UP Howrah - Katihar Express, 12517 UP Kolkata - Guwahati Garib Rath Express, 13142 DN New Alipurduar - Sealdah Teesta Torsa Express for December 15 have also been cancelled. The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, provides Indian citizenship to non-Muslim refugees of Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan who arrived in India before December 31, 2014. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill was passed from Parliament earlier this week and became an Act with Presidential assent on November 12.

Citizenship Amendment Act: Protests in West Bengal, several trains cancelled

West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar on Saturday said if the Parliament has passed a law, then every Indian is obliged to follow it.

Speaking to media regarding Citizenship (Amendment) Act, Dhankhar said, "If the Parliament in its wisdom has given us a law, which is the rule of the land, everyone particularly those like me and others who hold Constitutional positions has to believe in it. Every Indian is obliged to believe in the law laid down by the Indian Parliament."

"This law is applicable all over the country. I can't say I will not go by it. No one else can say it. If anyone has taken oath under the Constitution, he can't say it will be challenged," he said.

"I appeal to everyone, please don't politicise the issue. It is an issue which means the rule of law. Society and democracy can survive and prosper only if we believe in the rule of law," the Governor said.

Speaking about the protest against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, Dhankhar said, "The destruction of public property created by the toll of the people is most unfortunate. We as a country cannot afford on the 150 birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi to engage in violent activities."

"I appeal to everyone including the government to be proactive. If you find and identify miscreants, I am sure that should be done. Identification of miscreants is always a deterrent for such kind of activities," he said.

"West Bengal by its culture and people deserve to be peaceful. I have no hesitation in saying that the CAB is now an Act passed by the Indian parliament. It is under the Constitution, which is a tool for a powerful democracy," he said.

The Governor further said, "I with folded hands appeal to everyone that you have a way out under the Constitution if you think something has to be looked into. But being on road destroying trains, buses, railway station, and the police station is not the way out."

"I would expect everyone to contribute hugely for peace of the area. I appeal to the government, in particular, that it is time for you to proceed against miscreants and against those who are using social media for inflammatory messages," added Dhankar.

 
&nbsp;

West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar on Saturday said if the Parliament has passed a law, then every Indian is obliged to follow it. Speaking to media regarding Citizenship (Amendment) Act, Dhankhar said, "If the Parliament in its wisdom has given us a law, which is the rule of the land, everyone particularly those like me and others who hold Constitutional positions has to believe in it.

West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar on Saturday said if the Parliament has passed a law, then every Indian is obliged to follow it. Speaking to media regarding Citizenship (Amendment) Act, Dhankhar said, "If the Parliament in its wisdom has given us a law, which is the rule of the land, everyone particularly those like me and others who hold Constitutional positions has to believe in it. Every Indian is obliged to believe in the law laid down by the Indian Parliament." "This law is applicable all over the country. I can't say I will not go by it. No one else can say it. If anyone has taken oath under the Constitution, he can't say it will be challenged," he said. "I appeal to everyone, please don't politicise the issue. It is an issue which means the rule of law. Society and democracy can survive and prosper only if we believe in the rule of law," the Governor said. Speaking about the protest against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, Dhankhar said, "The destruction of public property created by the toll of the people is most unfortunate. We as a country cannot afford on the 150 birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi to engage in violent activities." "I appeal to everyone including the government to be proactive. If you find and identify miscreants, I am sure that should be done. Identification of miscreants is always a deterrent for such kind of activities," he said. "West Bengal by its culture and people deserve to be peaceful. I have no hesitation in saying that the CAB is now an Act passed by the Indian parliament. It is under the Constitution, which is a tool for a powerful democracy," he said. The Governor further said, "I with folded hands appeal to everyone that you have a way out under the Constitution if you think something has to be looked into. But being on road destroying trains, buses, railway station, and the police station is not the way out." "I would expect everyone to contribute hugely for peace of the area. I appeal to the government, in particular, that it is time for you to proceed against miscreants and against those who are using social media for inflammatory messages," added Dhankar.

Every Indian is obliged to abide by law: West Bengal Governor on Citizenship Amendment Act

Congress general secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-holds-meeting-with-up-congress-leaders-to-discuss-bharat-bachao-rally-preparations-266589">Priyanka Gandhi </a>slammed BJP on Saturday over inflation, Citizenship Amendment Bill 2019 and jobs as the party organised 'Bharat Bachao' (Save India) rally in the national capital on Saturday. &nbsp;

Taking a dig at BJP's slogan of Modi hai to mumkin hai (everything is possible if Modi is there), Priyanka said the reality is "if BJP is there, onions at Rs 100 per kg, highest unemployment in 45 years, 4 crore job losses are possible".

The Congress general secretary also urged the people of this country to "raise" their voice otherwise "Constitution" will be destroyed.&nbsp;

"I would like to tell every citizen of this country, raise your voice. If you love this country, become its voice. If we don't raise our voice, remain in the darkness of fear and lies even under these circumstances, and stay quiet then our Constitution will be destroyed," Gandhi said.&nbsp;

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PG Vadra, Congress: I'd like to tell every citizen of this country - raise your voice. You love this country, become its voice. If we don't raise our voice, stay back in the darkness of fear &amp; lies even in these circumstances, &amp; stay quiet then our Constitution will be destroyed. <a href="https://t.co/KHXyiYrRHA">pic.twitter.com/KHXyiYrRHA</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1205745009980362753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, former finance minister P Chidambaram, who recently got bail in the INX Media case, also slammed Centre for wrecking the economy in the last six months.&nbsp;

"Yesterday, finance minister said everything's alright, we are on top of the world. The only thing she didn't say was 'achhe din aane wale hain' (good days are about to come)," Chidambaram said taking a dig to BJP's 2014 election slogan. &nbsp;

Congress interim chief Sonia Gandhi, former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Rahul Gandhi were other leaders who were present in this rally.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi slammed BJP on Saturday over inflation, Citizenship Amendment Bill 2019 and jobs as the party organised 'Bharat Bachao' (Save India) rally in the national capital on Saturday.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi slammed BJP on Saturday over inflation, Citizenship Amendment Bill 2019 and jobs as the party organised 'Bharat Bachao' (Save India) rally in the national capital on Saturday. Taking a dig at BJP's slogan of Modi hai to mumkin hai (everything is possible if Modi is there), Priyanka said the reality is "if BJP is there, onions at Rs 100 per kg, highest unemployment in 45 years, 4 crore job losses are possible". The Congress general secretary also urged the people of this country to "raise" their voice otherwise "Constitution" will be destroyed. "I would like to tell every citizen of this country, raise your voice. If you love this country, become its voice. If we don't raise our voice, remain in the darkness of fear and lies even under these circumstances, and stay quiet then our Constitution will be destroyed," Gandhi said. PG Vadra, Congress: I'd like to tell every citizen of this country - raise your voice. You love this country, become its voice. If we don't raise our voice, stay back in the darkness of fear & lies even in these circumstances, & stay quiet then our Constitution will be destroyed. pic.twitter.com/KHXyiYrRHA — ANI (@ANI) December 14, 2019 × Earlier, former finance minister P Chidambaram, who recently got bail in the INX Media case, also slammed Centre for wrecking the economy in the last six months. "Yesterday, finance minister said everything's alright, we are on top of the world. The only thing she didn't say was 'achhe din aane wale hain' (good days are about to come)," Chidambaram said taking a dig to BJP's 2014 election slogan. Congress interim chief Sonia Gandhi, former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Rahul Gandhi were other leaders who were present in this rally.

Priyanka Gandhi slams BJP government on economy, Citizenship Bill

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Friday reacted on the ongoing row on the Citizenship Amendment Act and said that there is nothing worry.

"Rumours are being spread," he told media today.

Gadkari said that the bill seeks to give place to people of "Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain and Christian communities who don't find a place in any other country" and that they will be given citizenship.

"We're neither against Muslims nor we're asking anyone to go to Pakistan. There's nothing to worry. Rumours are being spread," the minister stated.&nbsp;

"Should we spread a red carpet for the foreign nationals who are entering our country?" Gadkari quipped. &nbsp;

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Union Minister Nitin Gadkari: People of Hindu,Sikh, Buddhist,Jain&amp;Christian communities who don't find place in any other country will be given citizenship.We're neither against Muslims nor we're asking anyone to go to Pakistan. There's nothing to worry. Rumours are being spread. <a href="https://t.co/xPxu0VWrQQ">https://t.co/xPxu0VWrQQ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1205481923805507585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The welfare of the county and politics should be kept apart," he said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, protests in the northeastern states of India continue against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019.

As many as 26 Army columns have been deployed in Assam to support the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to handle the situation there, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Mobile Internet services were suspended for another 48 hours in 10 districts of Assam on Friday after the administration had suspended mobile Internet services for 24 hours on Wednesday in 10 districts.

On Thursday two people were killed in police firing in the northeast as the mob continued to protest the Act. The Citizenship Amendment Bill, 2019 turned into an Act after President Kovind gave his assent on late Thursday night.&nbsp;

The Act seeks to grant citizenship to non-Muslim migrants, fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh.&nbsp;

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Friday reacted on the ongoing row on the Citizenship Amendment Act and said that there is nothing worry. "Rumours are being spread," he told media today.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Friday reacted on the ongoing row on the Citizenship Amendment Act and said that there is nothing worry. "Rumours are being spread," he told media today. Gadkari said that the bill seeks to give place to people of "Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain and Christian communities who don't find a place in any other country" and that they will be given citizenship. "We're neither against Muslims nor we're asking anyone to go to Pakistan. There's nothing to worry. Rumours are being spread," the minister stated. "Should we spread a red carpet for the foreign nationals who are entering our country?" Gadkari quipped. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari: People of Hindu,Sikh, Buddhist,Jain&Christian communities who don't find place in any other country will be given citizenship.We're neither against Muslims nor we're asking anyone to go to Pakistan. There's nothing to worry. Rumours are being spread. https://t.co/xPxu0VWrQQ — ANI (@ANI) December 13, 2019 × "The welfare of the county and politics should be kept apart," he said. Meanwhile, protests in the northeastern states of India continue against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019. As many as 26 Army columns have been deployed in Assam to support the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to handle the situation there, news agency ANI reported. Mobile Internet services were suspended for another 48 hours in 10 districts of Assam on Friday after the administration had suspended mobile Internet services for 24 hours on Wednesday in 10 districts. On Thursday two people were killed in police firing in the northeast as the mob continued to protest the Act. The Citizenship Amendment Bill, 2019 turned into an Act after President Kovind gave his assent on late Thursday night. The Act seeks to grant citizenship to non-Muslim migrants, fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh.

Rumours are being spread, there's no need to worry: Gadkari on Citizenship Amendment Act 

President Ram Nath Kovind gave his nod to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/citizenship-amendment-bill-protests-continue-to-rage-in-assam-cm-appeals-for-peace-267894">Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 </a>late on Thursday, letting it become an Act after the Rajya Sabha (Upper House) passed the Bill.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-citizenship-amendment-bill-2019-all-there-is-to-know-about-cab-267792">Bill </a>gives Indian citizenship to the members of Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities coming from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan till December 31, 2014 to India due to religious persecution.&nbsp;

"Parliament received the assent of the President on December 12, 2019, and here by published for general information", according to the gazette of India.

The Act came to force after the official gazette published it on Thursday.

As per the citizenship bill, the migrants of these six communities will be given Indian citizenship after residing in the country for five years, changing from the earlier requirement of 11 years. The Bill also gives protection to these people from cases of illegal migrants filed against them.

It will not be applicable to the tribal areas of Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Tripura and in the areas covered under the Inner Line Permit, notified under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873.

However, massive protests continue in the Northeast against the citizenship bill and two people were also killed on Thursday. Curfew has been imposed in several areas including Guwahati, Dibrugarh, Tezpur and Dhekiajuli.&nbsp;

Earlier, the Bill was passed in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday and the Lok Sabha (Lower House) approved it after midnight on Monday.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

President Ram Nath Kovind gave his nod to the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 late on Thursday, letting it become an Act after the Rajya Sabha (Upper House) passed the Bill.

President Ram Nath Kovind gave his nod to the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 late on Thursday, letting it become an Act after the Rajya Sabha (Upper House) passed the Bill. The Bill gives Indian citizenship to the members of Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities coming from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan till December 31, 2014 to India due to religious persecution. "Parliament received the assent of the President on December 12, 2019, and here by published for general information", according to the gazette of India. The Act came to force after the official gazette published it on Thursday. As per the citizenship bill, the migrants of these six communities will be given Indian citizenship after residing in the country for five years, changing from the earlier requirement of 11 years. The Bill also gives protection to these people from cases of illegal migrants filed against them. It will not be applicable to the tribal areas of Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Tripura and in the areas covered under the Inner Line Permit, notified under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873. However, massive protests continue in the Northeast against the citizenship bill and two people were also killed on Thursday. Curfew has been imposed in several areas including Guwahati, Dibrugarh, Tezpur and Dhekiajuli. Earlier, the Bill was passed in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday and the Lok Sabha (Lower House) approved it after midnight on Monday. (with inputs from agencies)

President Ram Nath Kovind gives nod to Citizenship (Amendment) Bill

Amid the uproar in India's northeast region over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/citizenship-amendment-bill-protests-continue-to-rage-in-assam-cm-appeals-for-peace-267894">Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019</a>, the curfew imposed in some of the areas have been lifted due to a halt in violence, officials said.&nbsp;

The police officials said that the curfew was relaxed in areas of Shillong on Friday for 12 hours as no "untoward incident" was reported in these regions. &nbsp;

"The curfew has been relaxed from 10 am to 10 pm in the areas under Sadar and Lumdiengjri police station limits," East Khasi Hills district deputy commissioner MW Nongbri said.&nbsp;

The commissioner, however, added that mobile internet and messaging services would remain suspended in these areas. The curfew in some areas of Shillong was imposed at 9 pm on Thursday.&nbsp;

Earlier, curfew was also relaxed for five hours till 1 pm in Assam's Dibrugarh, the epicentre of the protest. However, protests continued in Guwahati in Assam by the All Assam Students' Union (AASU).&nbsp;

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Assam: All Assam Students' Union (AASU) holds protest in Guwahati against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CitizenshipAmendmentAct?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CitizenshipAmendmentAct</a>. <a href="https://t.co/B7xzpywyME">pic.twitter.com/B7xzpywyME</a>
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Assam CM Sarbanada Sonowal said that the government will not tolerate any act of violence and "strong action will be taken against anyone who is involved in vandalism”. The Assam chief minister also said that he was “committed to protect the rights of indigenous people” of Assam and urged parents to persuade their children to avoid joining violent demonstrators. &nbsp;

&nbsp;The mobile services in the state of Meghalaya also remained suspended. &nbsp;

President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-ram-nath-kovind-gives-nod-to-citizenship-amendment-bill-267991">Ram Nath Kovind</a>, late on Thursday, gave his assent to the Bill, signing it into law, despite the killing of two people in Guwahati and vandalism in northeastern states.&nbsp;

The Bill gives Indian citizenship to the people from Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities coming to India from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan till December 31, 2014, due to religious persecution.

On Friday, Congress party moved to the Supreme Court over the citizenship bill, claiming that the Act violates Article 14 of the Indian Constitution.

(with inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Amid the uproar in India's northeast region over the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019, the curfew imposed in some of the areas have been lifted due to a halt in violence, officials said.

Amid the uproar in India's northeast region over the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019, the curfew imposed in some of the areas have been lifted due to a halt in violence, officials said. The police officials said that the curfew was relaxed in areas of Shillong on Friday for 12 hours as no "untoward incident" was reported in these regions. "The curfew has been relaxed from 10 am to 10 pm in the areas under Sadar and Lumdiengjri police station limits," East Khasi Hills district deputy commissioner MW Nongbri said. The commissioner, however, added that mobile internet and messaging services would remain suspended in these areas. The curfew in some areas of Shillong was imposed at 9 pm on Thursday. Earlier, curfew was also relaxed for five hours till 1 pm in Assam's Dibrugarh, the epicentre of the protest. However, protests continued in Guwahati in Assam by the All Assam Students' Union (AASU). Assam: All Assam Students' Union (AASU) holds protest in Guwahati against #CitizenshipAmendmentAct. pic.twitter.com/B7xzpywyME — ANI (@ANI) December 13, 2019 × Assam CM Sarbanada Sonowal said that the government will not tolerate any act of violence and "strong action will be taken against anyone who is involved in vandalism”. The Assam chief minister also said that he was “committed to protect the rights of indigenous people” of Assam and urged parents to persuade their children to avoid joining violent demonstrators. The mobile services in the state of Meghalaya also remained suspended. President Ram Nath Kovind, late on Thursday, gave his assent to the Bill, signing it into law, despite the killing of two people in Guwahati and vandalism in northeastern states. The Bill gives Indian citizenship to the people from Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities coming to India from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan till December 31, 2014, due to religious persecution. On Friday, Congress party moved to the Supreme Court over the citizenship bill, claiming that the Act violates Article 14 of the Indian Constitution. (with inputs from agencies)

Curfew lifted from few regions in India's Northeast as protests continue against Citizenship Bill

The Japanese Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/japan-prime-minister-shinzo-abe-might-cancel-india-trip-report-268002">Shinzo Abe's </a>visit to India has been postponed to a later date, the Indian foreign ministry confirmed on Friday.

As per sources, the visit was scheduled to be held in India's Northeast region, where massive protests against Citizenship (Amendment) Bill has led to unrest.&nbsp;

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar confirmed the postponement through a tweet, adding that a mutually convenient date would be decided in the future.&nbsp;

"With reference to the proposed visit of Japanese PM Shinzo Abe to India, both sides have decided to defer the visit to a mutually convenient date in the near future,"the MEA spokseperson said in a tweet.&nbsp;

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With reference to the proposed visit of Japanese PM <a href="https://twitter.com/AbeShinzo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AbeShinzo</a> to India, both sides have decided to defer the visit to a mutually convenient date in the near future.
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1205404342196424710?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Abe was scheduled to arrive in India on December 15 for the seond annual bilateral summit between India and Japan. It was also expected that Japanese PM will pay a visit to northeast's Imphal and thereby becoming first Japanese PM to visit the region.&nbsp;

The protests in the northeastern region, especially in Assam continue against the Bill that intends to give citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan.&nbsp;

On Thursday, two people were killed in Assam's Guwahati, while in many states police and other vehicles were set on fire.&nbsp;

The citizenship bill provides Indian citizenship to the people from Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities coming from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan till December 31, 2014, to India due to religious persecution.

(with inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

The Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's visit to India has been postponed to a later date, the Indian foreign ministry confirmed on Friday. As per sources, the visit was scheduled to be held in India's Northeast region, where massive protests against Citizenship (Amendment) Bill has led to unrest.

The Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's visit to India has been postponed to a later date, the Indian foreign ministry confirmed on Friday. As per sources, the visit was scheduled to be held in India's Northeast region, where massive protests against Citizenship (Amendment) Bill has led to unrest. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar confirmed the postponement through a tweet, adding that a mutually convenient date would be decided in the future. "With reference to the proposed visit of Japanese PM Shinzo Abe to India, both sides have decided to defer the visit to a mutually convenient date in the near future,"the MEA spokseperson said in a tweet. With reference to the proposed visit of Japanese PM @AbeShinzo to India, both sides have decided to defer the visit to a mutually convenient date in the near future. — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) December 13, 2019 × Abe was scheduled to arrive in India on December 15 for the seond annual bilateral summit between India and Japan. It was also expected that Japanese PM will pay a visit to northeast's Imphal and thereby becoming first Japanese PM to visit the region. The protests in the northeastern region, especially in Assam continue against the Bill that intends to give citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan. On Thursday, two people were killed in Assam's Guwahati, while in many states police and other vehicles were set on fire. The citizenship bill provides Indian citizenship to the people from Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities coming from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan till December 31, 2014, to India due to religious persecution. (with inputs from agencies)

Japanese PM Shinzo Abe's visit to India postponed

As north-east India is currently on the boil following the passage of the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill in Parliament, singer Papon on Thursday called off a music concert in Delhi saying that he will not be able to entertain his fans when his "home state Assam is burning, crying and under curfew."

The singer, who hails from Guwahati, took to Twitter and announced, "Dear Delhi. I am very sorry but I have decided not to do the concert tomorrow at 'imperfectoshor'&nbsp;as planned! My home state Assam is burning, crying, and under curfew! I won't be able to entertain you the way I should in my present state of mind."&nbsp;

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Dear Delhi. I am very sorry but I have decided not to do the concert tomorrow at ‘imperfectoshor’ as planned! My home state Assam is burning, crying and under curfew! I won’t be able to entertain you the way I should in my present state of mind!
— papon angaraag (@paponmusic) <a href="https://twitter.com/paponmusic/status/1205056267409997824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The 44-year-old actor slammed the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill and said, "It's painful to see the way Assam is burning! Humanity is suffering".

"Assam has been burdened with illegal immigration for decades! We don't deserve this! The diverse, complex mix of the Assamese culture &amp; people and their existence needs to be understood! We need to be heard properly," he added.&nbsp;

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It’s painful to see the way Assam is burning!Humanity is suffering! Assam has been burdened with illegal immigration for decades!We don’t deserve this!The diverse, complex mix of the Assamese culture &amp; people and their existence needs to be understood!We need to be heard properly
— papon angaraag (@paponmusic) <a href="https://twitter.com/paponmusic/status/1205052491261337601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Extending his apologies to his fans who had booked his full-packed show for December 13 in Delhi, the singer said, "I know this is unfair on you as you had bought tickets and planned long ahead. I am sure the organizers will take care of that in some way and as promised I'll see you all on another day in the future! I hope you will understand."&nbsp;

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I know this is unfair on you as you had bought tickets and planned long ahead. I am sure the organizers will take care of that in someway and as promised I’ll see you all on another day in future! I hope you will understand! 🙏🏼
— papon angaraag (@paponmusic) <a href="https://twitter.com/paponmusic/status/1205056320975462401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier on Wednesday, actor Adil Hussain who also has an Assamese background expressed his displeasure towards the bill through Twitter. 
 
"When we were born, our families had cheered because our mothers had given birth to a Human &amp; not a squirrel! We were born a human FIRST. If we cannot retain, protect &amp; celebrate the PRIMARY identity than what's the USE of calling ourselves a Muslim, Hindu, Assamese or a Bengali?" the actor tweeted. 
 
The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill which grants citizenship to the non-Muslims who arrived in India before December 31, 2014, smoothly sailed through Parliament after the Rajya Sabha passed it on Wednesday.

The bill was earlier approved by the Lok Sabha on Monday.

As north-east India is currently on the boil following the passage of the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill in Parliament, singer Papon on Thursday called off a music concert in Delhi saying that he will not be able to entertain his fans when his "home state Assam is burning, crying and under curfew.

As north-east India is currently on the boil following the passage of the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill in Parliament, singer Papon on Thursday called off a music concert in Delhi saying that he will not be able to entertain his fans when his "home state Assam is burning, crying and under curfew." The singer, who hails from Guwahati, took to Twitter and announced, "Dear Delhi. I am very sorry but I have decided not to do the concert tomorrow at 'imperfectoshor' as planned! My home state Assam is burning, crying, and under curfew! I won't be able to entertain you the way I should in my present state of mind." Dear Delhi. I am very sorry but I have decided not to do the concert tomorrow at ‘imperfectoshor’ as planned! My home state Assam is burning, crying and under curfew! I won’t be able to entertain you the way I should in my present state of mind! — papon angaraag (@paponmusic) December 12, 2019 × The 44-year-old actor slammed the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill and said, "It's painful to see the way Assam is burning! Humanity is suffering". "Assam has been burdened with illegal immigration for decades! We don't deserve this! The diverse, complex mix of the Assamese culture & people and their existence needs to be understood! We need to be heard properly," he added. It’s painful to see the way Assam is burning!Humanity is suffering! Assam has been burdened with illegal immigration for decades!We don’t deserve this!The diverse, complex mix of the Assamese culture & people and their existence needs to be understood!We need to be heard properly — papon angaraag (@paponmusic) December 12, 2019 × Extending his apologies to his fans who had booked his full-packed show for December 13 in Delhi, the singer said, "I know this is unfair on you as you had bought tickets and planned long ahead. I am sure the organizers will take care of that in some way and as promised I'll see you all on another day in the future! I hope you will understand." I know this is unfair on you as you had bought tickets and planned long ahead. I am sure the organizers will take care of that in someway and as promised I’ll see you all on another day in future! I hope you will understand! 🙏🏼 — papon angaraag (@paponmusic) December 12, 2019 × Earlier on Wednesday, actor Adil Hussain who also has an Assamese background expressed his displeasure towards the bill through Twitter. "When we were born, our families had cheered because our mothers had given birth to a Human & not a squirrel! We were born a human FIRST. If we cannot retain, protect & celebrate the PRIMARY identity than what's the USE of calling ourselves a Muslim, Hindu, Assamese or a Bengali?" the actor tweeted. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill which grants citizenship to the non-Muslims who arrived in India before December 31, 2014, smoothly sailed through Parliament after the Rajya Sabha passed it on Wednesday. The bill was earlier approved by the Lok Sabha on Monday.

Singer Papon cancels Delhi concert over Citizenship (Amendment) Bill

By: Mallika Singh

After a heated nine hour-long debate, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-passes-citizenship-amendment-bill-267747">Citizenship Amendment Bill</a>, 2019 was passed in the Rajya Sabha on December 11, 2019, with 125 votes to 105, as it was earlier introduced and passed in the Lower House of the Indian Parliament on December 9, 2019, by 311-80 votes. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Six hours of debate time had been originally allocated in the Upper House to the highly contentious Bill that seeks to grant Indian citizenship to undocumented religious minorities-namely Hindus, Sikh, Jain, Buddhists, Parsis and Christians from the neighbouring Pakistan, Bangladesh or Afghanistan who moved to the country before 
&nbsp;the date of December 31, 2014.&nbsp;

Besides the Bhartiya Janata Party, the Bill was supported by members of JD(U), SAD, AIADMK, BJD, TDP and YSR - Congress with Shiv Sena choosing to boycott voting.&nbsp;

The Bill is now set to become a law after it receives the formal assent of President Ram Nath Kovind.&nbsp;

The Bill seeks to amend the Citizenship Act, 1955 which regulates who may acquire Indian citizenship and on what grounds by adding provisions for Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi or Christian community in section 2, in sub-section (1), in clause (b) that they&nbsp;shall not be treated as illegal migrants. Illegal migrants are not eligible for Indian Citizenship.&nbsp;

Illegal migrants are defined as those foreigners who enter the country without valid travel documentation or who enter with valid documentation but exceed their permitted time period of stay. Implying that the mentioned communities will not be deported or imprisoned&nbsp;for being in India without valid documentation under The Foreigners Act, 1946 and The Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920.

Under the provisions for procurement of citizenship by naturalisation, the BJP lead Indian government seeks to amend the requirement that the applicant must have resided in India "not less than five years" in place of "not less than eleven years" for the mentioned six religious communities from the three Muslim majority countries through Section 2(1) (b).&nbsp;

The Bill exempts certain areas of the North-East region of the country, including tribal areas of Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Tripura as per the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.

The Bill also seeks to amend provisions related to Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders, making it possible to cancel OCI registration of these persons in case of violation of any law notified by the Central Government.&nbsp;

The Citizenship Amendment Bill has been on the agenda for the BJP government since 2016 when it was first tabled the Bill in the Lower House of the Parliament on July 16. The Bill was then referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee on August 12, 2016.&nbsp;

The Committee had submitted its report on January 7, 2019, and the Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha on January 8, 2019. However, the Bill could not be introduced in the Rajya Sabha before it adjourned sine die on February 13, 2019, causing the Bill to lapse.&nbsp;

According to Legislative Procedures regarding Lapsing of Bills “A Bill pending in Rajya Sabha which has not been passed by Lok Sabha does not lapse on the dissolution of Lok Sabha but a Bill which is passed by Lok Sabha and is pending in Rajya Sabha lapses on the dissolution of Lok Sabha.”

The Bill has gathered high criticism from the national as well as the international community, the fundamental criticism being that it specifically targets Muslims, making the Bill in violation of Article 14 of the Indian Constitution which enshrines the Fundamental Right to equality.&nbsp;

The government, however, states that the constitutions of the three specific state religion countries do not protect the mentioned communities, leading them to face persecution on grounds of religion, which the Indian government wishes to safeguard them from by&nbsp;granting them immunity. &nbsp;

Claiming that some of them also have fears about such persecution in their day-to-day life where the right to practice, profess and propagate their religion has been obstructed and restricted. Many such persons have fled to India to seek shelter and continued to stay in India despite inadequate documentation.&nbsp;

Leaders of various opposition parties voiced their discontent over the passage of the Bill in the Upper and Lower Houses, saying that it was against national interest.&nbsp;

Assam came to a standstill in an 11 hour statewide ‘bandh’ on Tuesday in protest against the Bill.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday assured the people of Assam that no one can take away their rights, unique identity and beautiful culture, amid protests in parts of the state against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019.

"I want to assure my brothers and sisters of Assam that they have nothing to worry after the passing of #CAB. I want to assure them- no one can take away your rights, unique identity and beautiful culture. It will continue to flourish and grow," the Prime Minister tweeted.

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I want to assure my brothers and sisters of Assam that they have nothing to worry after the passing of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CAB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CAB</a>. 
 
I want to assure them- no one can take away your rights, unique identity and beautiful culture. It will continue to flourish and grow.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1204981291730341888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Opposition leader, Sonia Gandhi condemned the passage of the Bill calling it a “dark day in the Constitution of India,” with several other party leaders indicating that they might move to the Supreme Court for intervention.&nbsp;

The Indian Union Muslim League on Thursday filed a petition in the Supreme Court of India questioning the legality of the passed Bill and demanding a stay on it.

By: Mallika Singh After a heated nine hour-long debate, the Citizenship Amendment Bill, 2019 was passed in the Rajya Sabha on December 11, 2019, with 125 votes to 105, as it was earlier introduced and passed in the Lower House of the Indian Parliament on December 9, 2019, by 311-80 votes.

By: Mallika Singh After a heated nine hour-long debate, the Citizenship Amendment Bill, 2019 was passed in the Rajya Sabha on December 11, 2019, with 125 votes to 105, as it was earlier introduced and passed in the Lower House of the Indian Parliament on December 9, 2019, by 311-80 votes. Six hours of debate time had been originally allocated in the Upper House to the highly contentious Bill that seeks to grant Indian citizenship to undocumented religious minorities-namely Hindus, Sikh, Jain, Buddhists, Parsis and Christians from the neighbouring Pakistan, Bangladesh or Afghanistan who moved to the country before the date of December 31, 2014. Besides the Bhartiya Janata Party, the Bill was supported by members of JD(U), SAD, AIADMK, BJD, TDP and YSR - Congress with Shiv Sena choosing to boycott voting. The Bill is now set to become a law after it receives the formal assent of President Ram Nath Kovind. The Bill seeks to amend the Citizenship Act, 1955 which regulates who may acquire Indian citizenship and on what grounds by adding provisions for Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi or Christian community in section 2, in sub-section (1), in clause (b) that they shall not be treated as illegal migrants. Illegal migrants are not eligible for Indian Citizenship. Illegal migrants are defined as those foreigners who enter the country without valid travel documentation or who enter with valid documentation but exceed their permitted time period of stay. Implying that the mentioned communities will not be deported or imprisoned for being in India without valid documentation under The Foreigners Act, 1946 and The Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920. Under the provisions for procurement of citizenship by naturalisation, the BJP lead Indian government seeks to amend the requirement that the applicant must have resided in India "not less than five years" in place of "not less than eleven years" for the mentioned six religious communities from the three Muslim majority countries through Section 2(1) (b). The Bill exempts certain areas of the North-East region of the country, including tribal areas of Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Tripura as per the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. The Bill also seeks to amend provisions related to Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders, making it possible to cancel OCI registration of these persons in case of violation of any law notified by the Central Government. The Citizenship Amendment Bill has been on the agenda for the BJP government since 2016 when it was first tabled the Bill in the Lower House of the Parliament on July 16. The Bill was then referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee on August 12, 2016. The Committee had submitted its report on January 7, 2019, and the Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha on January 8, 2019. However, the Bill could not be introduced in the Rajya Sabha before it adjourned sine die on February 13, 2019, causing the Bill to lapse. According to Legislative Procedures regarding Lapsing of Bills “A Bill pending in Rajya Sabha which has not been passed by Lok Sabha does not lapse on the dissolution of Lok Sabha but a Bill which is passed by Lok Sabha and is pending in Rajya Sabha lapses on the dissolution of Lok Sabha.” The Bill has gathered high criticism from the national as well as the international community, the fundamental criticism being that it specifically targets Muslims, making the Bill in violation of Article 14 of the Indian Constitution which enshrines the Fundamental Right to equality. The government, however, states that the constitutions of the three specific state religion countries do not protect the mentioned communities, leading them to face persecution on grounds of religion, which the Indian government wishes to safeguard them from by granting them immunity. Claiming that some of them also have fears about such persecution in their day-to-day life where the right to practice, profess and propagate their religion has been obstructed and restricted. Many such persons have fled to India to seek shelter and continued to stay in India despite inadequate documentation. Leaders of various opposition parties voiced their discontent over the passage of the Bill in the Upper and Lower Houses, saying that it was against national interest. Assam came to a standstill in an 11 hour statewide ‘bandh’ on Tuesday in protest against the Bill. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday assured the people of Assam that no one can take away their rights, unique identity and beautiful culture, amid protests in parts of the state against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019. "I want to assure my brothers and sisters of Assam that they have nothing to worry after the passing of #CAB. I want to assure them- no one can take away your rights, unique identity and beautiful culture. It will continue to flourish and grow," the Prime Minister tweeted. I want to assure my brothers and sisters of Assam that they have nothing to worry after the passing of #CAB. I want to assure them- no one can take away your rights, unique identity and beautiful culture. It will continue to flourish and grow. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 12, 2019 × Opposition leader, Sonia Gandhi condemned the passage of the Bill calling it a “dark day in the Constitution of India,” with several other party leaders indicating that they might move to the Supreme Court for intervention. The Indian Union Muslim League on Thursday filed a petition in the Supreme Court of India questioning the legality of the passed Bill and demanding a stay on it.

As Citizenship Amendment Bill, 2019 is set to become law, what all is there to know about CAB?

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iuml-to-file-plea-in-supreme-court-against-citizenship-amendment-bill-267775">Indian Union Muslim League</a> (IUML) on Thursday filed a petition in the Supreme Court on the question of legality of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-one-can-take-away-your-rights-unique-identity-prime-minister-assures-assam-on-citizenship-amendment-bill-267780">Citizenship (Amendment) Bill</a>, 2019, which has been passed by both houses of Parliament.

IUML, in its petition, requested the apex court to stay the Bill and its operation. The Muslim League also pleaded to declare it "illegal and void" for violating Article 14, 15 and 21 of the Constitution.

In a copy made available to ANI, the league requested the court to pass and grant an interim stay on the operation of the Foreigner Amendment (Order), 2015 and Passport (Entry Into Rules), Amendment Rules, 2015; and decision arising from the aforesaid rules.

"Kapil Sibal will be representing us in the court. We are confident that we will win the case as it is strong both legally and morally. The Bill violates Article 14 and 15 of the Constitution," said Mohammad Bashir, IUML member and Lok Sabha lawmaker from Ponnani.

The lawmaker said the Constitution of India is being "ruthlessly ignored" by the government.

The Bill, which was passed by Parliament on Wednesday, faced its first legal challenge with the filing of the petition.

IUML national secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-chaired-all-party-meeting-over-one-nation-one-election-underway-at-parliament-228677">P K Kunhalikutty </a>also said that since the Bill discriminates on the grounds of religion, it will not stand any ground in the top court.

The CAB smoothly sailed through Parliament after the Rajya Sabha passed it on Wednesday. As many as 125 members of the Upper House voted in favor of the Bill while 105 MPs voted against the Bill, which was passed by Lok Sabha earlier this week.

The Bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zoroastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014. 
&nbsp;

Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) on Thursday filed a petition in the Supreme Court on the question of legality of Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019, which has been passed by both houses of Parliament.

Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) on Thursday filed a petition in the Supreme Court on the question of legality of Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019, which has been passed by both houses of Parliament. IUML, in its petition, requested the apex court to stay the Bill and its operation. The Muslim League also pleaded to declare it "illegal and void" for violating Article 14, 15 and 21 of the Constitution. In a copy made available to ANI, the league requested the court to pass and grant an interim stay on the operation of the Foreigner Amendment (Order), 2015 and Passport (Entry Into Rules), Amendment Rules, 2015; and decision arising from the aforesaid rules. "Kapil Sibal will be representing us in the court. We are confident that we will win the case as it is strong both legally and morally. The Bill violates Article 14 and 15 of the Constitution," said Mohammad Bashir, IUML member and Lok Sabha lawmaker from Ponnani. The lawmaker said the Constitution of India is being "ruthlessly ignored" by the government. The Bill, which was passed by Parliament on Wednesday, faced its first legal challenge with the filing of the petition. IUML national secretary P K Kunhalikutty also said that since the Bill discriminates on the grounds of religion, it will not stand any ground in the top court. The CAB smoothly sailed through Parliament after the Rajya Sabha passed it on Wednesday. As many as 125 members of the Upper House voted in favor of the Bill while 105 MPs voted against the Bill, which was passed by Lok Sabha earlier this week. The Bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zoroastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

Indian Union Muslim League moves Supreme Court against Citizenship Amendment Bill

In India Citizenship amendment bill passed in Rajya Sabha. 125 votes are in favour of the bill and 105 votes are in against of the bill.

India: Citizenship amendment bill passed in Rajya Sabha

Protests in India's northeastern state Assam continued to rage on Thursday&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/citizenship-amendment-bill-avoidable-controversy-267862">Citizenship Amendment Bill</a>.&nbsp;

Assam's Guwahati city and Dibrugarh district have been placed under indefinite curfew till further orders. Mobile services have also been suspended for 48 hours starting from today.

One protestor was killed and three others were injured after police opened fire at the protestors.

According to reports, the police opened fire after the protesters hurled stones at the convoy of a foreign delegation.

As the protests continued to rage, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal appealed people to maintain peace and calm.

"I appeal to the people to maintain peace and not get misled", the Chief Minister said.

Meanwhile, in view of the prevailing situation,&nbsp;four flights from Assam's Dibrugarh airport were cancelled; while all passenger train operations to Assam and Tripura have been suspended. Twelve&nbsp;companies of the railway protection force have also been moved to Assam.

The domestic Ranji trophy cricket matches scheduled to have been held in Assam and Tripura also stand suspended.

Earlier in the day addressing a rally at Jharkhand, Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-one-can-take-away-your-rights-unique-identity-prime-minister-assures-assam-on-citizenship-amendment-bill-267780">Narendra Modi assured the people of Assam</a> that there is nothing to worry about.

"I assure the people of Assam, especially the youth, that they should not worry. Nobody can snatch your rights, Your culture, language and tradition will be safeguarded by Clause 6 of Assam Accord," he said at a rally.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 sailed through the Parliament after Rajya Sabha passed it on Wednesday.

As many as 125 members of the Upper House voted in favour while 105 MPs voted against the Bill, which was passed by Lok Sabha earlier this week.

The Bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zoroastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

&nbsp;

Protests in India's northeastern state Assam continued to rage on Thursday Citizenship Amendment Bill. Assam's Guwahati city and Dibrugarh district have been placed under indefinite curfew till further orders.

Protests in India's northeastern state Assam continued to rage on Thursday Citizenship Amendment Bill. Assam's Guwahati city and Dibrugarh district have been placed under indefinite curfew till further orders. Mobile services have also been suspended for 48 hours starting from today. One protestor was killed and three others were injured after police opened fire at the protestors. According to reports, the police opened fire after the protesters hurled stones at the convoy of a foreign delegation. As the protests continued to rage, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal appealed people to maintain peace and calm. "I appeal to the people to maintain peace and not get misled", the Chief Minister said. Meanwhile, in view of the prevailing situation, four flights from Assam's Dibrugarh airport were cancelled; while all passenger train operations to Assam and Tripura have been suspended. Twelve companies of the railway protection force have also been moved to Assam. The domestic Ranji trophy cricket matches scheduled to have been held in Assam and Tripura also stand suspended. Earlier in the day addressing a rally at Jharkhand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured the people of Assam that there is nothing to worry about. "I assure the people of Assam, especially the youth, that they should not worry. Nobody can snatch your rights, Your culture, language and tradition will be safeguarded by Clause 6 of Assam Accord," he said at a rally. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 sailed through the Parliament after Rajya Sabha passed it on Wednesday. As many as 125 members of the Upper House voted in favour while 105 MPs voted against the Bill, which was passed by Lok Sabha earlier this week. The Bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zoroastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

Citizenship Amendment Bill: Protests continue to rage in Assam; CM appeals for peace

Amidst heated arguments and loud protests within the Parliament and violent street demonstrations in parts of India, particularly North East, the ruling coalition government in India led by the BJP has managed to push through the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Bill in Parliament. It was passed in Rajya Sabha ( Upper House) on December 11, after being cleared by the Lok Sabha (Lower House) earlier. It now awaits the clerical formality of President’s consent to become tan Act.&nbsp;

The crux of the amendment is that the government of India can now grant Indian citizenship to such members of selected religious minorities from any of the three neighbouring countries namely Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh, who face/faced persecution in their respective countries. In this context, the Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, Jains and Parsis have been identified as those minorities which would qualify to seek and get Indian citizenship. The Muslims have been consciously excluded from the list of eligible minorities. &nbsp;

The thrust of the opposition to the amendment is that it (the amendment) violates the Constitution of India in terms of equality ( Article 14 and Article 15) and is an onslaught on the concept of secularism enshrined in the Constitution as the proposed amendment is applicable on the basis of religion and further it excludes Muslims from the list of prospective beneficiaries. &nbsp;

During the debates within and outside Parliament, the ruling party has forcefully defended its decision by arguing that the “minority status” and the “persecution of minorities” is the guiding principle and that religion has nothing to do with it. Explaining as to why Muslims have been excluded, the ruling party has argued that the three neighbouring countries under reference are Islamic countries and therefore the question of persecution of Muslims by Muslims in Islamic countries is not relevant in the given context.&nbsp;

When asked as to why the Muslim minorities such as Shias and Ahmadis being persecuted by the Sunni-majority Muslims have been excluded, if the persecution is the criteria, the government’s counter-argument is that Shias and Ahmadis are sects of Islam, and therefore, issues pertaining to them must be resolved within the framework of Islam in Islamic countries. The government, however, doesn’t seem to have a suitable explanation as to why exclude the Rohingya Muslims minority who are being persecuted not by the Muslims but by the Buddhist majority in neighbouring Myanmar. &nbsp;

Addressing the apprehensions, particularly of the Muslim minorities within India, where the Muslims constitute close to 15 per cent of the population, the government has repeatedly assured that the amendment is designed to “grant” and Not “withdraw” citizenship and therefore they should have no reason to fear any impact of the amendment on their status. The government has gone further to reveal that more than five hundred Muslims have in the past been granted Indian Citizenship on case-by-case basis. &nbsp;

In the given context, the pertinent question is: Do we really need the amendment under reference?&nbsp;Authentic statistics and reports are available to establish that the non-Muslim minorities in Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh (mainly Hindus, Sikhs and Christians) are indeed under pressure and their population in those countries has declined considerably either on account of migration or due to forced conversions. A large number of them are said to be already present in India but are deprived of several benefits for not being legitimate citizens of India. The humanitarian dimension of the issue at hand is well established. &nbsp;

However, do we need to amend our Citizenship Act to address this humanitarian issue? There have been in the past several instances when India has accepted Refugees of Indian origin from other countries (eg, Uganda, Burma ) and granted them Indian citizenship. Several hundred thousand “Indian Tamils” (Those who were sent to Sri Lanka as labourers at Tea and Rubber plantations by the British in mid -19th century) were accepted in India and rehabilitated under bilateral India-Sri Lanka agreement. One may, therefore, ask as to why could we not continue with the past practice of case-by-case approach and take appropriate action as and when the situation arose.&nbsp;

In my opinion, a ready-to-implement instrument sanctioned by the Law of the Land is a far better arrangement than ad-hoc actions, decisions or solutions. However, the government, which has arguably adopted a selective approach both in the selection of countries and minorities could have possibly avoided controversy by not identifying the religious minorities in black and white. It should have served the purpose by simply stating that the minorities currently facing persecution in three neighbouring countries i.e. Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan or those who faced persecution in the past in those countries and are already in India are eligible to apply for Indian Citizenship and their application will be given due consideration after taking into account all aspects including national security while reserving its right to decline.

The government would have thus stated the obvious. The government in its wisdom has, however, decided to be unambiguous in conveying the message that Muslims persecuted by Muslims will not be covered by the amendment. In fact by excluding Myanmar and thus Rohingya Muslims, it has gone further to convey that the Muslims persecuted anywhere in the world will not be automatically eligible for applying for Indian Citizenship.&nbsp;

Even if the government has been guided by security considerations, which the presence in India in particular of the Rohingya Muslims could pose, the government has given an excuse to opposition to accuse it of taking yet another step in the direction of moving India towards Hindu Rashtra (Hindu State), ignoring the long history and tradition of religious, ethnic and linguistic pluralism in India where practically all world religions are represented and their followers have the freedom to practice and preach their respective religions.&nbsp;

The amendment implicitly accuses the three countries of atrocities against the minorities. The Afghan government is unlikely to react as the alleged atrocities are attributable to Taliban. In the case of Pakistan, it is immaterial as the relations cannot go worse than what they are now. However, by cancelling the scheduled visit of its foreign minister to India presumable to register its protest, Bangladesh has made its intention clear not to take the accusations of atrocities lying down, and in due course of time, India will have to take measures to repair the damage.&nbsp;

The government of India has suitably and justifiably snubbed those in the West who have criticised the Bill, describing it for instance as a “dangerous turn in the wrong direction” (US Federal Commission on International Religious Freedom statement). However, the battle at home remains inconclusive as violent protests in Assam defying curfew continue unabated on the one hand and on the other the Indian Union Muslim League ( IUML) has challenged (December 12) &nbsp;the Citizenship Amendment Bill in Supreme Court alleging that the Bill violates the fundamental Right to Equality of the Constitution of India, and needless to add that its outcome will be keenly awaited. &nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;(Views expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Amidst heated arguments and loud protests within the Parliament and violent street demonstrations in parts of India, particularly North East, the ruling coalition government in India led by the BJP has managed to push through the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Bill in Parliament.

Amidst heated arguments and loud protests within the Parliament and violent street demonstrations in parts of India, particularly North East, the ruling coalition government in India led by the BJP has managed to push through the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Bill in Parliament. It was passed in Rajya Sabha ( Upper House) on December 11, after being cleared by the Lok Sabha (Lower House) earlier. It now awaits the clerical formality of President’s consent to become tan Act. The crux of the amendment is that the government of India can now grant Indian citizenship to such members of selected religious minorities from any of the three neighbouring countries namely Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh, who face/faced persecution in their respective countries. In this context, the Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, Jains and Parsis have been identified as those minorities which would qualify to seek and get Indian citizenship. The Muslims have been consciously excluded from the list of eligible minorities. The thrust of the opposition to the amendment is that it (the amendment) violates the Constitution of India in terms of equality ( Article 14 and Article 15) and is an onslaught on the concept of secularism enshrined in the Constitution as the proposed amendment is applicable on the basis of religion and further it excludes Muslims from the list of prospective beneficiaries. During the debates within and outside Parliament, the ruling party has forcefully defended its decision by arguing that the “minority status” and the “persecution of minorities” is the guiding principle and that religion has nothing to do with it. Explaining as to why Muslims have been excluded, the ruling party has argued that the three neighbouring countries under reference are Islamic countries and therefore the question of persecution of Muslims by Muslims in Islamic countries is not relevant in the given context. When asked as to why the Muslim minorities such as Shias and Ahmadis being persecuted by the Sunni-majority Muslims have been excluded, if the persecution is the criteria, the government’s counter-argument is that Shias and Ahmadis are sects of Islam, and therefore, issues pertaining to them must be resolved within the framework of Islam in Islamic countries. The government, however, doesn’t seem to have a suitable explanation as to why exclude the Rohingya Muslims minority who are being persecuted not by the Muslims but by the Buddhist majority in neighbouring Myanmar. Addressing the apprehensions, particularly of the Muslim minorities within India, where the Muslims constitute close to 15 per cent of the population, the government has repeatedly assured that the amendment is designed to “grant” and Not “withdraw” citizenship and therefore they should have no reason to fear any impact of the amendment on their status. The government has gone further to reveal that more than five hundred Muslims have in the past been granted Indian Citizenship on case-by-case basis. In the given context, the pertinent question is: Do we really need the amendment under reference? Authentic statistics and reports are available to establish that the non-Muslim minorities in Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh (mainly Hindus, Sikhs and Christians) are indeed under pressure and their population in those countries has declined considerably either on account of migration or due to forced conversions. A large number of them are said to be already present in India but are deprived of several benefits for not being legitimate citizens of India. The humanitarian dimension of the issue at hand is well established. However, do we need to amend our Citizenship Act to address this humanitarian issue? There have been in the past several instances when India has accepted Refugees of Indian origin from other countries (eg, Uganda, Burma ) and granted them Indian citizenship. Several hundred thousand “Indian Tamils” (Those who were sent to Sri Lanka as labourers at Tea and Rubber plantations by the British in mid -19th century) were accepted in India and rehabilitated under bilateral India-Sri Lanka agreement. One may, therefore, ask as to why could we not continue with the past practice of case-by-case approach and take appropriate action as and when the situation arose. In my opinion, a ready-to-implement instrument sanctioned by the Law of the Land is a far better arrangement than ad-hoc actions, decisions or solutions. However, the government, which has arguably adopted a selective approach both in the selection of countries and minorities could have possibly avoided controversy by not identifying the religious minorities in black and white. It should have served the purpose by simply stating that the minorities currently facing persecution in three neighbouring countries i.e. Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan or those who faced persecution in the past in those countries and are already in India are eligible to apply for Indian Citizenship and their application will be given due consideration after taking into account all aspects including national security while reserving its right to decline. The government would have thus stated the obvious. The government in its wisdom has, however, decided to be unambiguous in conveying the message that Muslims persecuted by Muslims will not be covered by the amendment. In fact by excluding Myanmar and thus Rohingya Muslims, it has gone further to convey that the Muslims persecuted anywhere in the world will not be automatically eligible for applying for Indian Citizenship. Even if the government has been guided by security considerations, which the presence in India in particular of the Rohingya Muslims could pose, the government has given an excuse to opposition to accuse it of taking yet another step in the direction of moving India towards Hindu Rashtra (Hindu State), ignoring the long history and tradition of religious, ethnic and linguistic pluralism in India where practically all world religions are represented and their followers have the freedom to practice and preach their respective religions. The amendment implicitly accuses the three countries of atrocities against the minorities. The Afghan government is unlikely to react as the alleged atrocities are attributable to Taliban. In the case of Pakistan, it is immaterial as the relations cannot go worse than what they are now. However, by cancelling the scheduled visit of its foreign minister to India presumable to register its protest, Bangladesh has made its intention clear not to take the accusations of atrocities lying down, and in due course of time, India will have to take measures to repair the damage. The government of India has suitably and justifiably snubbed those in the West who have criticised the Bill, describing it for instance as a “dangerous turn in the wrong direction” (US Federal Commission on International Religious Freedom statement). However, the battle at home remains inconclusive as violent protests in Assam defying curfew continue unabated on the one hand and on the other the Indian Union Muslim League ( IUML) has challenged (December 12) the Citizenship Amendment Bill in Supreme Court alleging that the Bill violates the fundamental Right to Equality of the Constitution of India, and needless to add that its outcome will be keenly awaited. (Views expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Citizenship Amendment Bill: Avoidable controversy?

Dozens of protests broke out across northeastern India on Tuesday (December 10), after the lower house of Indian parliament passed the controversial religion-based Citizenship (Amendment) Bill late at night.

Protests erupt across northeastern India over religion-based citizenship bill

In India, the citizenship amendment bill 2019 passed by Lok sabha at midnight.

India: CITIZENSHIP AMENDMENT BILL 2019 PASSED IN LOK SABHA