Both houses of the Indian parliament were adjourned on Monday after the opposition lodged strong protests over the expulsion of Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi. Speaker Om Birla, presiding over the lower house Lok Sabha said he wanted to run the House with dignity and adjourned the proceedings.&nbsp;

Before the commencement of the morning session, opposition MPs&nbsp;participated in a meeting held in the chamber of Leader of Opposition Rajya Sabha and Congres chief&nbsp;Mallikarjun Kharge.&nbsp;

"I thank everyone who supported this. That is why, I thanked everyone yesterday and I thank them today as well. We welcome anyone who comes forward to protect democracy and Constitution and safeguard the people. We extend heartfelt gratitude to the people who support us," Kharge told reporters after the meeting.&nbsp;

Last week, a city court in Surat&nbsp;convicted Rahul Gandhi&nbsp;in a criminal defamation case filed against him for his alleged 'Modi surname' remarks.&nbsp;The court sentenced Gandhi to two years in jail while imposing a fine of Rs 15,000 ($183), under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 499 (defamation), 500 (punishment for defamation).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rahul-gandhi-will-continue-to-raise-questions-over-tycoon-adani-575706">WATCH |&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi: Will continue to raise questions over tycoon Adani</a>

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Gandhi&nbsp;made the alleged remarks while addressing a rally at Kolar in Karnataka ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

“Why all the thieves, be it Nirav Modi, Lalit Modi or Narendra Modi, have Modi in their names,” remarked the Congress leader.&nbsp;

After an appeal, his sentence was suspended and bail granted to move an appeal against the conviction in under 30 days. However, the very next day, the&nbsp;Indian parliament disqualified the Indian MP from Wayanad - a district in the southern Indian state of Kerala.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rahul-gandhi-convicted-in-2019-modi-surname-defamation-case-gets-two-year-jail-term-574899">ALSO READ |&nbsp;India: Rahul Gandhi convicted in 2019 'Modi surname' defamation case, gets two-year jail term</a>

"Consequent upon his conviction by the Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Surat in C.C./18712/2019, Shri Rahul Gandhi, Member of the Lok Sabha constituency representing the Wayanad Parliamentary Constituency of Kerala stands disqualified from the membership of Lok Sabha from the date of his conviction, i.e. March 23, 2023," read the statement released by&nbsp;Lok Sabha Secretariat.&nbsp;

Following his disqualification, Gandhi is not eligible able to contest elections for eight years unless a higher court stays his conviction and sentence.

Notably, the Wayanad MP is the scion of India's most famous political family -&nbsp;the Gandhi family. Despite coming from a privileged background, Gandhi has not been able to compete against the popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his BJP government. His disqualification ahead of the crucial 2024 general elections may hurt INC's chances of staging a comeback.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Both houses of the Indian parliament were adjourned on Monday after the opposition lodged strong protests over the expulsion of Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi.

Both houses of the Indian parliament were adjourned on Monday after the opposition lodged strong protests over the expulsion of Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi. Speaker Om Birla, presiding over the lower house Lok Sabha said he wanted to run the House with dignity and adjourned the proceedings. Before the commencement of the morning session, opposition MPs participated in a meeting held in the chamber of Leader of Opposition Rajya Sabha and Congres chief Mallikarjun Kharge. "I thank everyone who supported this. That is why, I thanked everyone yesterday and I thank them today as well. We welcome anyone who comes forward to protect democracy and Constitution and safeguard the people. We extend heartfelt gratitude to the people who support us," Kharge told reporters after the meeting. Last week, a city court in Surat convicted Rahul Gandhi in a criminal defamation case filed against him for his alleged 'Modi surname' remarks. The court sentenced Gandhi to two years in jail while imposing a fine of Rs 15,000 ($183), under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 499 (defamation), 500 (punishment for defamation). WATCH | Rahul Gandhi: Will continue to raise questions over tycoon Adani × Gandhi made the alleged remarks while addressing a rally at Kolar in Karnataka ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. “Why all the thieves, be it Nirav Modi, Lalit Modi or Narendra Modi, have Modi in their names,” remarked the Congress leader. After an appeal, his sentence was suspended and bail granted to move an appeal against the conviction in under 30 days. However, the very next day, the Indian parliament disqualified the Indian MP from Wayanad - a district in the southern Indian state of Kerala. ALSO READ | India: Rahul Gandhi convicted in 2019 'Modi surname' defamation case, gets two-year jail term "Consequent upon his conviction by the Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Surat in C.C./18712/2019, Shri Rahul Gandhi, Member of the Lok Sabha constituency representing the Wayanad Parliamentary Constituency of Kerala stands disqualified from the membership of Lok Sabha from the date of his conviction, i.e. March 23, 2023," read the statement released by Lok Sabha Secretariat. Following his disqualification, Gandhi is not eligible able to contest elections for eight years unless a higher court stays his conviction and sentence. Notably, the Wayanad MP is the scion of India's most famous political family - the Gandhi family. Despite coming from a privileged background, Gandhi has not been able to compete against the popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his BJP government. His disqualification ahead of the crucial 2024 general elections may hurt INC's chances of staging a comeback. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Indian parliament adjourned after raucous protests by opposition over Rahul Gandhi's expulsion

A video of Rajya Sabha MP Jaya Bachchan angrily pointing her finger at Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar has gone viral. The actress-turned-politician, who is often trolled online for her public outbursts and her bittersweet interactions with the paparazzi, is seen walking out of the parliament during uproarious sessions over the Adani scam on February 9.

Jaya was standing in support of&nbsp;Congress Rajya Sabha MP Rajani Patil, who got&nbsp;suspended for the rest of the ongoing Budget Session for violating the directions of the chairman.&nbsp;

"I think it was done in a very humiliating manner. Shouldn't have happened. If they feel something wrong was done, they should've sent it to Committee. Don't know if they sent it. She wasn't given a chance to clarify," Bachchan said.

In no time, Jaya Bachchan started trending on Twitter and the viral video triggered a meme-fest online. Some angry Twitterati even slammed Bachchan on micro-blogging sites, calling her "arrogant and frustrated".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/juliette-binoche-honoured-at-spanish-goya-film-awards-561177">Spanish Goya film awards pay tribute to late Spanish filmmaker Carlos Saura</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Frustrated elderly Jaya Bachchan will never be able to understand what is <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/REKHA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#REKHA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rekha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rekha</a> <a href="https://t.co/TOI954tz65">pic.twitter.com/TOI954tz65</a>
— Anila Singh (@AnilaSingh_BJP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnilaSingh_BJP/status/1624754395794780164?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This is only &amp; only &amp; only a privilege for being a woman 
 
No man, irrespective of party, will get away insulting the chair like this<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JayaBachchan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JayaBachchan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RajyaSabha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RajyaSabha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VoiceForMen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VoiceForMen</a> <a href="https://t.co/VrHZHmr2Mn">pic.twitter.com/VrHZHmr2Mn</a>
— Voice For Men India (@voiceformenind) <a href="https://twitter.com/voiceformenind/status/1624697317344280577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JayaBachchan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JayaBachchan</a> <a href="https://t.co/vO7L7HI8Zi">pic.twitter.com/vO7L7HI8Zi</a>
— RADHE ࿗🚬🇮🇳 (@Iamradhe_p00) <a href="https://twitter.com/Iamradhe_p00/status/1624691953827995648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Many leaders from India's ruling party BJP also slammed Bachchan for the same. BJP's Ajay Sehrawat shared the viral video online and wrote, "Jaya Bachchan's behaviour in the Rajya Sabha is condemnable."

India's Information and broadcasting ministry advisor Kanchan Gupta said the video reminded him of the time when the UPA was in power and Bachchan made some harsh comments. "Amitabh Bachchan rushed to apologise and issues a hand-wringing statement that ended with 'They are rulers, we are commoners'," Gupta&nbsp;tweeted.

Disclaimer: This article is a compilation of thoughts posted by netizens and satire doing the rounds on the subject. Ideas expressed do not reflect the view of WION.

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A video of Rajya Sabha MP Jaya Bachchan angrily pointing her finger at Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar has gone viral. The actress-turned-politician, who is often trolled online for her public outbursts and her bittersweet interactions with the paparazzi, is seen walking out of the parliament during uproarious sessions over the Adani scam on February 9.

A video of Rajya Sabha MP Jaya Bachchan angrily pointing her finger at Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar has gone viral. The actress-turned-politician, who is often trolled online for her public outbursts and her bittersweet interactions with the paparazzi, is seen walking out of the parliament during uproarious sessions over the Adani scam on February 9. Jaya was standing in support of Congress Rajya Sabha MP Rajani Patil, who got suspended for the rest of the ongoing Budget Session for violating the directions of the chairman. "I think it was done in a very humiliating manner. Shouldn't have happened. If they feel something wrong was done, they should've sent it to Committee. Don't know if they sent it. She wasn't given a chance to clarify," Bachchan said. In no time, Jaya Bachchan started trending on Twitter and the viral video triggered a meme-fest online. Some angry Twitterati even slammed Bachchan on micro-blogging sites, calling her "arrogant and frustrated". Also read: Spanish Goya film awards pay tribute to late Spanish filmmaker Carlos Saura Frustrated elderly Jaya Bachchan will never be able to understand what is #REKHA #Rekha pic.twitter.com/TOI954tz65 — Anila Singh (@AnilaSingh_BJP) February 12, 2023 This is only & only & only a privilege for being a woman No man, irrespective of party, will get away insulting the chair like this#JayaBachchan #RajyaSabha #VoiceForMen pic.twitter.com/VrHZHmr2Mn — Voice For Men India (@voiceformenind) February 12, 2023 #JayaBachchan pic.twitter.com/vO7L7HI8Zi — RADHE ࿗🚬🇮🇳 (@Iamradhe_p00) February 12, 2023 Many leaders from India's ruling party BJP also slammed Bachchan for the same. BJP's Ajay Sehrawat shared the viral video online and wrote, "Jaya Bachchan's behaviour in the Rajya Sabha is condemnable." India's Information and broadcasting ministry advisor Kanchan Gupta said the video reminded him of the time when the UPA was in power and Bachchan made some harsh comments. "Amitabh Bachchan rushed to apologise and issues a hand-wringing statement that ended with 'They are rulers, we are commoners'," Gupta tweeted. Disclaimer: This article is a compilation of thoughts posted by netizens and satire doing the rounds on the subject. Ideas expressed do not reflect the view of WION. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Jaya Bachchan gets trolled for her outburst during Parliament session; watch viral video

All eyes are on the budget session of the Indian Parliament which is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, as the opposition parties look to corner the government over inflation, the economy, the Adani-Hindenburg row, and other pressing economic issues.

The Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has, however, asserted that it is willing to discuss any issue as long as proper rules are followed.

The session will kick-start with the maiden address of President Droupadi Murmu to the joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament—Lok Sabha (Lower House) and Rajya Sabha (Upper House).

In her speech, she will mostly highlight the government's achievements and policy priorities for the current year.

After the president’s address, the Economic Survey will also be tabled on Tuesday.

On Wednesday, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the last full-fledged Union Budget of the Modi government before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections The Budget session will have 27 sittings.

The first part of the budget session will end on February 14. Then on March 12, the Parliament will reconvene for the second part of the session which will continue till April 6.

The government plans to bring around 36 bills —including four related to the budgetary exercise — during the session.

On the eve of the much-anticipated session, the opposition parties and the ruling BJP held an all-party meeting on Monday where they raised the Adani issue and the conduct of governors in some states ruled by the saffron party.

While several regional parties expressed their intention to raise issues relating to unemployment, price rise and the Centre's alleged bias in sharing revenue with states, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said the government has always been positive to discussing every topic but maintained that it should be held under the rules and with the Speaker’s permission.

"We seek the opposition's cooperation in running Parliament smoothly," Joshi told reporters after the meeting which was attended by 37 leaders, representing 27 parties. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal were among others who attended the meeting.

As most Congress leaders were busy with the Bharat Jodo Yatra's conclusion, the main opposition party was not represented at the all-party meeting. A Congress leader who had to be present could not reach. Minister Joshi said its floor leaders are likely to meet him on Tuesday to convey their views.

(With inputs from agencies)

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All eyes are on the budget session of the Indian Parliament which is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, as the opposition parties look to corner the government over inflation, the economy, the Adani-Hindenburg row, and other pressing economic issues.

All eyes are on the budget session of the Indian Parliament which is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, as the opposition parties look to corner the government over inflation, the economy, the Adani-Hindenburg row, and other pressing economic issues. The Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has, however, asserted that it is willing to discuss any issue as long as proper rules are followed. The session will kick-start with the maiden address of President Droupadi Murmu to the joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament—Lok Sabha (Lower House) and Rajya Sabha (Upper House). In her speech, she will mostly highlight the government's achievements and policy priorities for the current year. After the president’s address, the Economic Survey will also be tabled on Tuesday. On Wednesday, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the last full-fledged Union Budget of the Modi government before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections The Budget session will have 27 sittings. The first part of the budget session will end on February 14. Then on March 12, the Parliament will reconvene for the second part of the session which will continue till April 6. The government plans to bring around 36 bills —including four related to the budgetary exercise — during the session. On the eve of the much-anticipated session, the opposition parties and the ruling BJP held an all-party meeting on Monday where they raised the Adani issue and the conduct of governors in some states ruled by the saffron party. While several regional parties expressed their intention to raise issues relating to unemployment, price rise and the Centre's alleged bias in sharing revenue with states, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said the government has always been positive to discussing every topic but maintained that it should be held under the rules and with the Speaker’s permission. "We seek the opposition's cooperation in running Parliament smoothly," Joshi told reporters after the meeting which was attended by 37 leaders, representing 27 parties. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal were among others who attended the meeting. As most Congress leaders were busy with the Bharat Jodo Yatra's conclusion, the main opposition party was not represented at the all-party meeting. A Congress leader who had to be present could not reach. Minister Joshi said its floor leaders are likely to meet him on Tuesday to convey their views. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Indian Parliament’s budget session to begin on Tuesday; oppn look to corner govt on price rise, Adani

On Friday, in a first for the Indian government and the legislative history of the country, the pronouns “she” and “her” have been used to refer to individuals irrespective of gender in the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2022. The bill has been put up by the country’s Union Minister for Communications, Electronics and Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, for public consultation.&nbsp;

“With the philosophy (Indian) Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government works, we have attempted to use the word ‘she’ and ‘her’ in the entire Bill instead of ‘him’ and ‘his’,” said the union minister. He added that this “innovative” move has been attempted in the bill while speaking to the press.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/after-eu-india-will-soon-shift-towards-common-type-c-charging-port-534934">After EU, India to make common Type-C charging port mandatory for all smart devices</a>

A section of the proposed legislation reads, “In this Act, the pronouns “her” and “she” have been used for an individual, irrespective of gender.” Meanwhile, an explanatory note of the draft also noted that this was in line with the government’s philosophy of empowering women.&nbsp;

The Personal Data Protection Bill was previously withdrawn in August after a joint committee of the Indian parliament suggested at least 81 amendments to a 99-section bill. It was first proposed in Lok Sabha (lower house) in December 2019 following protests from the opposition Congress and other parties who said that it violated citizens' fundamental rights.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-historic-move-by-indias-top-court-makes-proceedings-public-520220">&nbsp;WION Dispatch: Historic move by India's top court, makes proceedings public</a>

The proposed bill aims to protect internet users and create a system for individuals’ digital personal data which can be processed in a way that recognises the right to protect their personal data. The government has sought consultation and comments till December 17 which is the last date for the stakeholders to submit their remarks. Furthermore, the focus of the bill is to create a safe and trusted digital ecosystem in India.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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On Friday, in a first for the Indian government and the legislative history of the country, the pronouns “she” and “her” have been used to refer to individuals irrespective of gender in the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2022.

On Friday, in a first for the Indian government and the legislative history of the country, the pronouns “she” and “her” have been used to refer to individuals irrespective of gender in the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2022. The bill has been put up by the country’s Union Minister for Communications, Electronics and Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, for public consultation. “With the philosophy (Indian) Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government works, we have attempted to use the word ‘she’ and ‘her’ in the entire Bill instead of ‘him’ and ‘his’,” said the union minister. He added that this “innovative” move has been attempted in the bill while speaking to the press. ALSO READ: After EU, India to make common Type-C charging port mandatory for all smart devices A section of the proposed legislation reads, “In this Act, the pronouns “her” and “she” have been used for an individual, irrespective of gender.” Meanwhile, an explanatory note of the draft also noted that this was in line with the government’s philosophy of empowering women. The Personal Data Protection Bill was previously withdrawn in August after a joint committee of the Indian parliament suggested at least 81 amendments to a 99-section bill. It was first proposed in Lok Sabha (lower house) in December 2019 following protests from the opposition Congress and other parties who said that it violated citizens' fundamental rights. ALSO WATCH: WION Dispatch: Historic move by India's top court, makes proceedings public The proposed bill aims to protect internet users and create a system for individuals’ digital personal data which can be processed in a way that recognises the right to protect their personal data. The government has sought consultation and comments till December 17 which is the last date for the stakeholders to submit their remarks. Furthermore, the focus of the bill is to create a safe and trusted digital ecosystem in India. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

In a first, India uses ‘she’ and ‘her’ to refer to all genders in a draft data protection bill

On Monday, the parliamentary standing committee on health and family welfare submitted a report to the Rajya Sabha recommending that cancer should be declared as a ‘notified disease’ citing many unreported cancer deaths in India. The committee also noted that this hinders data collection due to the ambiguity of the actual cause of death and called for a CoWin-like portal for registration.&nbsp;

The committee made these recommendations in the 139th report on “Cancer Care Plan and Management: Prevention, Diagnosis, Research &amp; Affordability of Cancer Treatment” submitted to the Chairman of the upper house of Parliament. “The Committee notes that Cancer is still not classified as a notifiable disease which results in underreporting of cancer deaths…It has been brought to the notice of the Committee that many times death is simply recorded as a cardio-respiratory failure without mentioning the actual cause of death,” states the report.&nbsp;

A ‘notifiable disease’ is any disease that a citizen needs to report to the public health authorities, which is mandated by law. The collation of this information allows the authorities to monitor the disease and issue early warnings in case of a possible outbreak. Therefore, the committee has called for cancer to be a notified disease which would mandatorily require cancer deaths to be reported to the government machinery. &nbsp;

The panel headed by MP Ram Gopal Yadav also called for a CoWin-like portal for registration, which would aid real-time data collection, and counselling, while also offering supportive resources for cancer care with interactive tools. The report added, “The portal can also be equipped to aid those affected by cancer by guiding them through the treatment and management journey”.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, they have also expressed displeasure over the current mechanism in place which is the National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP). The NCRP has been working since 1982 through two other registries, Population Based Cancer Registry (PBCR) and Hospital Based Cancer Registry (HBCR). Notably, only 10% of the Indian population is covered by PBCRs. The committee strongly believes that there is an urgent need for rural-based PBCRs “to get realistic information about the incidence and type of cancers across the country.”&nbsp;

The committee also called upon the National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research (ICMR) to take requisite action and set up a population-based cancer registry in rural areas of these states – Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Telangana, and Orissa. “Such requisite action is all the more necessary to collect data &amp; information not only for policy making on cancer treatment but also for uniform distribution of cancer care,” the report noted.&nbsp;

The Ministry must also expand the scope of PBCR and ensure conducting more rural-based PBCRs to get accurate information about the incidence and types of cancer across the country, said the committee. They also recommend that the Ministry link the Cancer Registry data with Ayushman Bharat/PMJY, mortality databases, and the Hospital Information System (HIS) which they believe would improve cancer registration, follow-up, and outcome data.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

On Monday, the parliamentary standing committee on health and family welfare submitted a report to the Rajya Sabha recommending that cancer should be declared as a ‘notified disease’ citing many unreported cancer deaths in India.

On Monday, the parliamentary standing committee on health and family welfare submitted a report to the Rajya Sabha recommending that cancer should be declared as a ‘notified disease’ citing many unreported cancer deaths in India. The committee also noted that this hinders data collection due to the ambiguity of the actual cause of death and called for a CoWin-like portal for registration. The committee made these recommendations in the 139th report on “Cancer Care Plan and Management: Prevention, Diagnosis, Research & Affordability of Cancer Treatment” submitted to the Chairman of the upper house of Parliament. “The Committee notes that Cancer is still not classified as a notifiable disease which results in underreporting of cancer deaths…It has been brought to the notice of the Committee that many times death is simply recorded as a cardio-respiratory failure without mentioning the actual cause of death,” states the report. A ‘notifiable disease’ is any disease that a citizen needs to report to the public health authorities, which is mandated by law. The collation of this information allows the authorities to monitor the disease and issue early warnings in case of a possible outbreak. Therefore, the committee has called for cancer to be a notified disease which would mandatorily require cancer deaths to be reported to the government machinery. The panel headed by MP Ram Gopal Yadav also called for a CoWin-like portal for registration, which would aid real-time data collection, and counselling, while also offering supportive resources for cancer care with interactive tools. The report added, “The portal can also be equipped to aid those affected by cancer by guiding them through the treatment and management journey”. Meanwhile, they have also expressed displeasure over the current mechanism in place which is the National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP). The NCRP has been working since 1982 through two other registries, Population Based Cancer Registry (PBCR) and Hospital Based Cancer Registry (HBCR). Notably, only 10% of the Indian population is covered by PBCRs. The committee strongly believes that there is an urgent need for rural-based PBCRs “to get realistic information about the incidence and type of cancers across the country.” The committee also called upon the National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research (ICMR) to take requisite action and set up a population-based cancer registry in rural areas of these states – Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Telangana, and Orissa. “Such requisite action is all the more necessary to collect data & information not only for policy making on cancer treatment but also for uniform distribution of cancer care,” the report noted. The Ministry must also expand the scope of PBCR and ensure conducting more rural-based PBCRs to get accurate information about the incidence and types of cancer across the country, said the committee. They also recommend that the Ministry link the Cancer Registry data with Ayushman Bharat/PMJY, mortality databases, and the Hospital Information System (HIS) which they believe would improve cancer registration, follow-up, and outcome data. (With inputs from agencies)

Cancer should be made a ‘notified disease’, recommends Parliamentary panel

Barely three days after Droupadi Murmu took oath as India’s 15th President, the tribal leader has found herself amid a controversy surrounding her constitutional designation. Reportedly, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, leader of India's opposition party, the Indian National Congress (INC), made a speech where he allegedly misgendered Murmu’s designation.

The INC leader allegedly called Murmu a ‘Rashtrapatni’, inviting the wrath of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). It is pertinent to note that a President is called ‘Rashtrapati’ in Hindi which is a gender-neutral term. Anyone taking the office, whether a man, woman or any other person is referred to as the same.

The Constitution makes no difference in the gender of the occupant of the position either. However, Choudhary allegedly changed the last part of the word ‘pati’ meaning husband, to ‘patni’, meaning wife.

Ruling party corners&nbsp;Chowdhury and INC

As soon as the lower house of the parliament met on Thursday (July 28), senior BJP leader Smriti Irani raised the issue and cornered INC.

“A tribal woman from a poor family who created history is being continuously demeaned by the Congress,” she told the reporters.&nbsp;

Irani further claimed that it was INC President Sonia Gandhi who&nbsp;sanctioned Chowdhury’s remark and that both should issue an apology for disrespecting the entire tribal community, women, the poor and the downtrodden.

“Sonia Gandhi sanctioned the humiliation of a woman at the highest constitutional office in the country,” said Irani.&nbsp;

Irani was backed up by her colleague and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman who stated, “I demand an apology from the President of Congress party who herself is a woman but has allowed her leader to speak like that. Sonia Gandhi should come before the nation and apologise for insulting the President.”&nbsp;

Chowdhury issues a clarification

Soon, a clamour ensued and the house was adjourned for a brief period. After the controversy snowballed, Chowdhury took to Twitter to issue a clarification.&nbsp;

The INC leader tweeted a video where he could be heard saying, “Whoever is the President of India, be it Brahmin, or Adivasi, the President is the President for us. Our respect is for the post.”

He further added, “Yesterday when we were protesting at Vijay Chowk, reporters asked us where we wanted to go. I told them I want to visit the President’s house. Just once, I said “Rashtrapatni”...The reporter repeated it to me and I said I might have said that by mistake and it would be better if they didn’t broadcast it. They (BJP) are creating a furore because of this. I made a mistake, just once and in one word.”

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Who is Droupadi Murmu?

It is important to note that, for the first time in Indian history,&nbsp;a tribal leader has held the top constitutional post. Murmu comes from&nbsp;India’s poorest but resource-rich state of Odisha. She&nbsp;belongs to the Santhal tribe, which&nbsp;is spread over four states and is India’s largest scheduled tribe after the Bhils and Gonds. Her election is seen as a milestone for the tribals of the country.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-story-of-indias-15th-president-droupadi-murmu-500635">Gravitas: The story of India's 15th President Droupadi Murmu</a>

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(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Barely three days after Droupadi Murmu took oath as India’s 15th President, the tribal leader has found herself amid a controversy surrounding her constitutional designation.

Barely three days after Droupadi Murmu took oath as India’s 15th President, the tribal leader has found herself amid a controversy surrounding her constitutional designation. Reportedly, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, leader of India's opposition party, the Indian National Congress (INC), made a speech where he allegedly misgendered Murmu’s designation. The INC leader allegedly called Murmu a ‘Rashtrapatni’, inviting the wrath of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). It is pertinent to note that a President is called ‘Rashtrapati’ in Hindi which is a gender-neutral term. Anyone taking the office, whether a man, woman or any other person is referred to as the same. The Constitution makes no difference in the gender of the occupant of the position either. However, Choudhary allegedly changed the last part of the word ‘pati’ meaning husband, to ‘patni’, meaning wife. Ruling party corners Chowdhury and INC As soon as the lower house of the parliament met on Thursday (July 28), senior BJP leader Smriti Irani raised the issue and cornered INC. “A tribal woman from a poor family who created history is being continuously demeaned by the Congress,” she told the reporters. Irani further claimed that it was INC President Sonia Gandhi who sanctioned Chowdhury’s remark and that both should issue an apology for disrespecting the entire tribal community, women, the poor and the downtrodden. “Sonia Gandhi sanctioned the humiliation of a woman at the highest constitutional office in the country,” said Irani. Irani was backed up by her colleague and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman who stated, “I demand an apology from the President of Congress party who herself is a woman but has allowed her leader to speak like that. Sonia Gandhi should come before the nation and apologise for insulting the President.” Chowdhury issues a clarification Soon, a clamour ensued and the house was adjourned for a brief period. After the controversy snowballed, Chowdhury took to Twitter to issue a clarification. The INC leader tweeted a video where he could be heard saying, “Whoever is the President of India, be it Brahmin, or Adivasi, the President is the President for us. Our respect is for the post.” He further added, “Yesterday when we were protesting at Vijay Chowk, reporters asked us where we wanted to go. I told them I want to visit the President’s house. Just once, I said “Rashtrapatni”...The reporter repeated it to me and I said I might have said that by mistake and it would be better if they didn’t broadcast it. They (BJP) are creating a furore because of this. I made a mistake, just once and in one word.” pic.twitter.com/fvBNLmI7ah — Adhir Chowdhury (@adhirrcinc) July 28, 2022 × Who is Droupadi Murmu? It is important to note that, for the first time in Indian history, a tribal leader has held the top constitutional post. Murmu comes from India’s poorest but resource-rich state of Odisha. She belongs to the Santhal tribe, which is spread over four states and is India’s largest scheduled tribe after the Bhils and Gonds. Her election is seen as a milestone for the tribals of the country. Watch: Gravitas: The story of India's 15th President Droupadi Murmu × (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Rashtrapatni' remark: BJP leader Smriti Irani demands apology from Congress

Amid the economic and political crisis in the neighbouring country of Sri Lanka, the Indian government has called an all-party meeting under External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The meeting will take place on Tuesday (July 19), the second day of the Monsoon session of the parliament.&nbsp;

"The Government has called another all-party meeting under EAM Dr S Jaishankar and FM Sitharaman on the current crisis in Sri Lanka, to be held on Tuesday." Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi informed media about the meeting.&nbsp;

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sri-lankas-political-crisis-what-happens-next-497952">Sri Lanka's political crisis: What happens next?</a>

Why India cannot have an unstable neighbour?

An unstable neighbour in India's immediate vicinity is not an ideal situation for New Delhi. China, which has played a pivotal part in bringing Sri Lanka to its knees could attempt to use the perilous situation and install its proxies in the parliament, under its string of pearls strategy.

Thus, it becomes paramount that Indian political parties remain on the same page regarding helping Sri Lanka. New Delhi has already supplied over $3 billion in aid to its neighbour. Reportedly, the government of India has also assured Sri Lanka that despite the turmoil, it will continue to support democracy, stability and economic recovery of the country.&nbsp;

The island nation of Sri Lanka is going through its worst economic crisis since it gained independence in 1948. After the President, Prime Minister and other high-ranking officials deserted office, the entire country has plunged into a state of crisis.

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/why-sri-lanka-bent-toward-economic-crisis-know-these-5-reasons-497442">Why Sri Lanka bent toward Economic Crisis? Know these 5 reasons</a>

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa had tendered his resignation via an email to the Parliament speaker after landing in Singapore, so as to not get ensnared in the legal net. The anti-government protestors in Sri Lanka have been demanding the entire Rajapaksa clan and its associates quit and allow an all-party government to run the country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

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Amid the economic and political crisis in the neighbouring country of Sri Lanka, the Indian government has called an all-party meeting under External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

Amid the economic and political crisis in the neighbouring country of Sri Lanka, the Indian government has called an all-party meeting under External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The meeting will take place on Tuesday (July 19), the second day of the Monsoon session of the parliament. "The Government has called another all-party meeting under EAM Dr S Jaishankar and FM Sitharaman on the current crisis in Sri Lanka, to be held on Tuesday." Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi informed media about the meeting. Read More: Sri Lanka's political crisis: What happens next? Why India cannot have an unstable neighbour? An unstable neighbour in India's immediate vicinity is not an ideal situation for New Delhi. China, which has played a pivotal part in bringing Sri Lanka to its knees could attempt to use the perilous situation and install its proxies in the parliament, under its string of pearls strategy. Thus, it becomes paramount that Indian political parties remain on the same page regarding helping Sri Lanka. New Delhi has already supplied over $3 billion in aid to its neighbour. Reportedly, the government of India has also assured Sri Lanka that despite the turmoil, it will continue to support democracy, stability and economic recovery of the country. The island nation of Sri Lanka is going through its worst economic crisis since it gained independence in 1948. After the President, Prime Minister and other high-ranking officials deserted office, the entire country has plunged into a state of crisis. Read More: Why Sri Lanka bent toward Economic Crisis? Know these 5 reasons President Gotabaya Rajapaksa had tendered his resignation via an email to the Parliament speaker after landing in Singapore, so as to not get ensnared in the legal net. The anti-government protestors in Sri Lanka have been demanding the entire Rajapaksa clan and its associates quit and allow an all-party government to run the country. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Indian government calls an all-party meet on Sri Lanka crisis; EAM and FM to chair the meeting

India's Lok Sabha Secretariat has issued a booklet adding number of words that would be deemed unparliamentary. Lok Sabha (House of the People) is lower house of Indian Parliament. The government maintains that the list has been compiled in accordance with rules of the parliament but critics and especially the opposition parties are alleging that the list contains some words that are harmless enough to be used in a debate inside the house.

Here is list of some of the words that have been deemed unparliamentary by the secretariat

ashamed, abused, betrayed, corrupt, drama, hypocrisy, incompetent, crocodile tears, jumlajeevi, baal buddhi, Covid spreader, Snoopgate, Shakuni, taanashah, taanashahi, vinash purush, Khalistani

In addition to this some other Hindi words have also been deemed unparliamentary.

gaddar, chamcha, chamchagiri, chelas, girgit, goons, ghadiyali ansu, apmaan, asatya, ahankaar, corrupt, kala din, kala bazaari and khareed farokht

The list released by the secretariat says that some of the keywords may not appear unparliamentary unless read in conjunction with the other expressions spoken during the parliamentary proceedings.

The compilation contains references to words and expressions declared unparliamentary in Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha and state legislatures in India during 2021, besides those disallowed in some of the Commonwealth Parliaments in 2020.

Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien said, "Session begins in a few days. GAG ORDER ISSUED ON MPs."

"Now, we will not be allowed to use these basic words while delivering a speech in #Parliament : Ashamed. Abused. Betrayed. Corrupt. Hypocrisy. Incompetent. I will use all these words. Suspend me. Fighting for democracy," the TMC leader said.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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India's Lok Sabha Secretariat has issued a booklet adding number of words that would be deemed unparliamentary. Lok Sabha (House of the People) is lower house of Indian Parliament.

India's Lok Sabha Secretariat has issued a booklet adding number of words that would be deemed unparliamentary. Lok Sabha (House of the People) is lower house of Indian Parliament. The government maintains that the list has been compiled in accordance with rules of the parliament but critics and especially the opposition parties are alleging that the list contains some words that are harmless enough to be used in a debate inside the house. Here is list of some of the words that have been deemed unparliamentary by the secretariat ashamed, abused, betrayed, corrupt, drama, hypocrisy, incompetent, crocodile tears, jumlajeevi, baal buddhi, Covid spreader, Snoopgate, Shakuni, taanashah, taanashahi, vinash purush, Khalistani In addition to this some other Hindi words have also been deemed unparliamentary. gaddar, chamcha, chamchagiri, chelas, girgit, goons, ghadiyali ansu, apmaan, asatya, ahankaar, corrupt, kala din, kala bazaari and khareed farokht The list released by the secretariat says that some of the keywords may not appear unparliamentary unless read in conjunction with the other expressions spoken during the parliamentary proceedings. The compilation contains references to words and expressions declared unparliamentary in Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha and state legislatures in India during 2021, besides those disallowed in some of the Commonwealth Parliaments in 2020. Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien said, "Session begins in a few days. GAG ORDER ISSUED ON MPs." "Now, we will not be allowed to use these basic words while delivering a speech in #Parliament : Ashamed. Abused. Betrayed. Corrupt. Hypocrisy. Incompetent. I will use all these words. Suspend me. Fighting for democracy," the TMC leader said. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Indian parliament releases new list of unparliamentary words, opposition unhappy

Facebook executives on Thursday fielded questions from an Indian parliamentary panel about changes to WhatsApp's privacy policy, days after the country's technology ministry asked the messaging platform to withdraw them.

The committee asked why Facebook needed to change WhatsApp's privacy terms and how it will impact users, a panel member told reporters on condition of anonymity after the meeting.

"Members wanted to know the implications of the policy for Indian consumers," the panel member said, adding that WhatsApp has said it will submit written responses.

A WhatsApp spokeswoman said the company had provided its views and will continue to assist the committee in the future.

With 400 million users, India is WhatsApp's biggest market, and the messaging service has big plans for the country's growing digital payments space, including selling health insurance via partners.

The messaging platform this month kicked off a storm when it informed users it was preparing a new privacy policy, under which it could share limited user data, including phone number and location, with Facebook and its group firms.

Demand for rival applications such as Signal and Telegram surged on privacy concerns and WhatsApp last week decided to delay the new policy launch to May from February.

Facebook last year invested $5.7 billion in the digital unit of Mukesh Ambani-led conglomerate Reliance Industries, with a big part of that aimed at drawing in tens of millions of traditional shop owners to use digital payments via WhatsApp.

India's Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology this week said in an email to WhatsApp's boss that the new privacy policy terms take away choice from Indian users.

Facebook executives on Thursday fielded questions from an Indian parliamentary panel about changes to WhatsApp's privacy policy, days after the country's technology ministry asked the messaging platform to withdraw them.

Facebook executives on Thursday fielded questions from an Indian parliamentary panel about changes to WhatsApp's privacy policy, days after the country's technology ministry asked the messaging platform to withdraw them. The committee asked why Facebook needed to change WhatsApp's privacy terms and how it will impact users, a panel member told reporters on condition of anonymity after the meeting. "Members wanted to know the implications of the policy for Indian consumers," the panel member said, adding that WhatsApp has said it will submit written responses. A WhatsApp spokeswoman said the company had provided its views and will continue to assist the committee in the future. With 400 million users, India is WhatsApp's biggest market, and the messaging service has big plans for the country's growing digital payments space, including selling health insurance via partners. The messaging platform this month kicked off a storm when it informed users it was preparing a new privacy policy, under which it could share limited user data, including phone number and location, with Facebook and its group firms. Demand for rival applications such as Signal and Telegram surged on privacy concerns and WhatsApp last week decided to delay the new policy launch to May from February. Facebook last year invested $5.7 billion in the digital unit of Mukesh Ambani-led conglomerate Reliance Industries, with a big part of that aimed at drawing in tens of millions of traditional shop owners to use digital payments via WhatsApp. India's Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology this week said in an email to WhatsApp's boss that the new privacy policy terms take away choice from Indian users.

India parliament panel questions Facebook on WhatsApp's privacy terms

The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (December 10, 2020) laid the foundation stone of the new Parliament building in the national capital. He also performed the ''Bhoomi Pujan'' ceremony for the new Parliament House building.

Indian PM Narendra Modi lays foundation stone of new Parliament building

Indian Parliament has passed two of the three agriculture related bills amid ruckus and protest by opposition. New law to end the role of middlemen in the farming sector.

Indian Parliament passed two agriculture related bills amid ruckus by opposition

The passage of farm bills by voice vote and rigidness of the government to rush them through the house without discussion has brought down the dignity of the Rajya Sabha. Not only did the government fail to control the proceedings of the house, but also showed that it was in undue hurry to pass the bills. The government also did not exercise the right to send the bill to the standing commitee of the parliament. I remember when the Lok Pal bill -- which was authored by the parliamentary committee -- was passed by the Lok Sabha, it later was stalled in Rajya Sabha by the BJP. It perplexed the ruling UPA because BJP through its Lok Sabha members had made their share of suggestions.

The Opposition argued that the issue was not about the parties but about the House and the Rajya Sabha had the right to study the bill. It led to the creation of another committee which was given two weeks to submit its report.

The bill was&nbsp;subsequently passed. &nbsp;

On the other hand, a good bill was rushed through voice vote in the Rajya Sabha, destroying its legitimacy in process. Similar patience was demonstrated in Rajya Sabha when the Women Reservation Bill was being pushed for passage. When MPs failed to cooperate and continued to disrupt the house, they were taken out of the house one by one by marshals and then BJP and Congress jointly passed the bill. All such options have been exercised in past, but it requires patience.

In past six years, no one has ever questioned the passage of bills by voice vote in the Lok Sabha because BJP has majority in the house. BJP does not enjoy majority in the Rajya Sabha. It was incumbent on the government to pass the bill through legislation. It was also required as earlier allies like, TRS, SAD and BJD had turned against the bill. Earlier, BJP had done the same by converting Aadhar as money bill which till today is sub juice. &nbsp;

Moreover, the pandemonium showed that government had no idea of resolving the issue as they could have deferred the matter for Monday or Tuesday. They were afraid the Opposition would marshal numbers and embarrassed the government on the floor or in front of the media.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/farm-bills-passed-in-indian-parliament-with-controversial-voice-vote-rajya-sabha-wion-329160">ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Farm bills passed in Indian parliament with controversial voice vote | Rajya Sabha | WION</a>

I support the Farm Bill as a journalist but its passage violates the spirt and rule of the House. Late Arun Jaitley used to say that Opposition must have its say and government must have its way. But in this process, the government has rocked the established practices of the House. It is the right of the Opposition to use stalling and delay as a tactic to incorporate their point of view in the proceedings.

The Opposition members also crossed the proverbial 'Lakshman Rekha' because in times of Covid-19, all norms of social distancing were done away with as they broke microphones and tried to heckle the Chair.&nbsp;

Eight members were suspended the next day. Members have been suspended earlier also but no bill has been rushed without a debate like this.&nbsp;

Indian agriculture sector requires reforms, but it requires better planning by the government. The ordinances could have been promulgated again but by rushing a law, the government has shown an authoritarian streak.&nbsp;

If the Opposition has been irresponsible and short sighted, then the government has been undemocratic in its conduct of the House. If this is a party with difference then, this difference is certainly undemocratic and unwanted in the Indian parliamentary system.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The passage of farm bills by voice vote and rigidness of the government to rush them through the house without discussion has brought down the dignity of the Rajya Sabha.

The passage of farm bills by voice vote and rigidness of the government to rush them through the house without discussion has brought down the dignity of the Rajya Sabha. Not only did the government fail to control the proceedings of the house, but also showed that it was in undue hurry to pass the bills. The government also did not exercise the right to send the bill to the standing commitee of the parliament. I remember when the Lok Pal bill -- which was authored by the parliamentary committee -- was passed by the Lok Sabha, it later was stalled in Rajya Sabha by the BJP. It perplexed the ruling UPA because BJP through its Lok Sabha members had made their share of suggestions. The Opposition argued that the issue was not about the parties but about the House and the Rajya Sabha had the right to study the bill. It led to the creation of another committee which was given two weeks to submit its report. The bill was subsequently passed. On the other hand, a good bill was rushed through voice vote in the Rajya Sabha, destroying its legitimacy in process. Similar patience was demonstrated in Rajya Sabha when the Women Reservation Bill was being pushed for passage. When MPs failed to cooperate and continued to disrupt the house, they were taken out of the house one by one by marshals and then BJP and Congress jointly passed the bill. All such options have been exercised in past, but it requires patience. In past six years, no one has ever questioned the passage of bills by voice vote in the Lok Sabha because BJP has majority in the house. BJP does not enjoy majority in the Rajya Sabha. It was incumbent on the government to pass the bill through legislation. It was also required as earlier allies like, TRS, SAD and BJD had turned against the bill. Earlier, BJP had done the same by converting Aadhar as money bill which till today is sub juice. Moreover, the pandemonium showed that government had no idea of resolving the issue as they could have deferred the matter for Monday or Tuesday. They were afraid the Opposition would marshal numbers and embarrassed the government on the floor or in front of the media. ALSO WATCH | Farm bills passed in Indian parliament with controversial voice vote | Rajya Sabha | WION I support the Farm Bill as a journalist but its passage violates the spirt and rule of the House. Late Arun Jaitley used to say that Opposition must have its say and government must have its way. But in this process, the government has rocked the established practices of the House. It is the right of the Opposition to use stalling and delay as a tactic to incorporate their point of view in the proceedings. The Opposition members also crossed the proverbial 'Lakshman Rekha' because in times of Covid-19, all norms of social distancing were done away with as they broke microphones and tried to heckle the Chair. Eight members were suspended the next day. Members have been suspended earlier also but no bill has been rushed without a debate like this. Indian agriculture sector requires reforms, but it requires better planning by the government. The ordinances could have been promulgated again but by rushing a law, the government has shown an authoritarian streak. If the Opposition has been irresponsible and short sighted, then the government has been undemocratic in its conduct of the House. If this is a party with difference then, this difference is certainly undemocratic and unwanted in the Indian parliamentary system. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Hand that rocked the parliament: Voice vote destroyed the sanctity of farm bills

With fibre-glass sheets and circles, how Indian Parliament prepared for monsoon session

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha secretariats said that there would be no Question Hour in the current monsoon session of Parliament.

India: No Question Hour during Parliament's monsoon session

The central government on Monday ruled that in order to fight the epidemic Coronavirus spreading in the country, the salaries of members of parliament and central cabinet ministers for one year will now be cut by 30%. Union Minister Prakash Javadekar informed that the Union Cabinet has approved an Ordinance amending the Members of Parliament Act, 1954 which reduce Members' salary, allowances and pension by 30% w.e.f. April 1 for a year.

India's President, VP, States' Governors voluntarily decide to take a pay cut to fight COVID-19

Sources told to WION that Indian Parliament is likely to shutdown amid the spread of 'pandemic' Coronavirus (COVID-19). Parliament shutdown could be done after passing the finance bill. The final decision is likely to be taken after 9 PM on Sunday.

Sources: Indian Parliament likely to shutdown amid the spread of 'pandemic' COVID-19

The second half of the Budget Session of Parliament, which will begin on Monday, is expected to be stormy with the Congress deciding to attack the government on a range of issues including violence in Delhi and its handling of the economy.

The government is expected to push its legislative agenda that includes Bills relating to surrogacy and resolution of disputed tax.

Forty-two persons have been killed in violence in Delhi earlier this week and some opposition parties including the Congress have sought the resignation of Home Minister Amit Shah.

The Congress has accused the Central and Delhi governments of failing to contain the violence that erupted in parts of northeast Delhi.

Sources said a meeting was held at the residence of party chief Sonia Gandhi on Saturday which discussed party`s strategy to corner the government in Parliament on Delhi violence.

The BJP has accused Congress of "politicising" the violence and said there was "instigation" by opposition leaders to protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act.

Congress has also accused the BJP-led government of ruining the Indian economy by its "monumental mismanagement."

Congress leader Anand Sharma said on Saturday the GDP for the third quarter was at 4.7 per cent and it was the seventh consecutive quarter when the GDP has fallen.

The first half of the Budget Session of Parliament, which began on January 31 with an address by President Ram Nath Kovind to the joint sitting of two houses, saw protests over the CAA.

Apart from Finance Bill 2020, Aircraft (Amendment) Bill and The Direct Tax Vivad Se Vishwas Bill were among the legislation introduced in the first half that concluded on February 11.

The government`s legislative agenda for the Budget Session of Parliament includes nearly 45 Bills and seven financial items.

It includes replacing Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Ordinance, 2019 and the Mineral Laws (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 with Bills during the session.

The Budget Session is slated to conclude on April 3.

The Union Budget was presented on February 1 and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman replied to the debate on the budget. 
&nbsp;

The second half of the Budget Session of Parliament, which will begin on Monday, is expected to be stormy with the Congress deciding to attack the government on a range of issues including violence in Delhi and its handling of the economy.

The second half of the Budget Session of Parliament, which will begin on Monday, is expected to be stormy with the Congress deciding to attack the government on a range of issues including violence in Delhi and its handling of the economy. The government is expected to push its legislative agenda that includes Bills relating to surrogacy and resolution of disputed tax. Forty-two persons have been killed in violence in Delhi earlier this week and some opposition parties including the Congress have sought the resignation of Home Minister Amit Shah. The Congress has accused the Central and Delhi governments of failing to contain the violence that erupted in parts of northeast Delhi. Sources said a meeting was held at the residence of party chief Sonia Gandhi on Saturday which discussed party`s strategy to corner the government in Parliament on Delhi violence. The BJP has accused Congress of "politicising" the violence and said there was "instigation" by opposition leaders to protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act. Congress has also accused the BJP-led government of ruining the Indian economy by its "monumental mismanagement." Congress leader Anand Sharma said on Saturday the GDP for the third quarter was at 4.7 per cent and it was the seventh consecutive quarter when the GDP has fallen. The first half of the Budget Session of Parliament, which began on January 31 with an address by President Ram Nath Kovind to the joint sitting of two houses, saw protests over the CAA. Apart from Finance Bill 2020, Aircraft (Amendment) Bill and The Direct Tax Vivad Se Vishwas Bill were among the legislation introduced in the first half that concluded on February 11. The government`s legislative agenda for the Budget Session of Parliament includes nearly 45 Bills and seven financial items. It includes replacing Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Ordinance, 2019 and the Mineral Laws (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 with Bills during the session. The Budget Session is slated to conclude on April 3. The Union Budget was presented on February 1 and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman replied to the debate on the budget.

Second half of Budget Session begins Monday, expected to be stormy

The Union Minister of India for Health Dr Harsh Vardhan briefs Lok Sabha over the global outbreak of Coronavirus and the steps India is taking to avert the disease. He says 'Anyone coming from China will be quarantined'.

India: Union Home Minister Harsh Vardhan briefs Lok Sabha over Coronavirus

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said in Lok Sabha on Monday said the name of the Muslim community is nowhere mentioned in the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019.

"Nowhere in the Bill Muslim community is named even once. You cannot distort and present it in the House," said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-to-move-the-special-protection-group-amendment-bill-2019-today-in-rajya-sabha-265825">Amit Shah</a> after tabling the Bill, while replying to a member from Opposition Bench who alleged that the Bill is discriminatory against the community.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/citizenship-amendment-bill-secularism-unfinished-business-in-india-266260">The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019</a> seeks to grant Indian citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan.

Also Watch:&nbsp;Citizenship Amendment Bill tabled in Lok Sabha

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Through this bill, Indian citizenship will be provided to the members of Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities, who have come from the three countries to India till December 31, 2014, to put an end to them being treated as illegal immigrants in the country.&nbsp;

The Bill was passed by the Lower House of the Parliament earlier this year but lapsed with the term of the previous Lok Sabha during the first term of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi government in the Centre.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said in Lok Sabha on Monday said the name of the Muslim community is nowhere mentioned in the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019. "Nowhere in the Bill Muslim community is named even once.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said in Lok Sabha on Monday said the name of the Muslim community is nowhere mentioned in the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019. "Nowhere in the Bill Muslim community is named even once. You cannot distort and present it in the House," said Amit Shah after tabling the Bill, while replying to a member from Opposition Bench who alleged that the Bill is discriminatory against the community. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019 seeks to grant Indian citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. Also Watch: Citizenship Amendment Bill tabled in Lok Sabha × Through this bill, Indian citizenship will be provided to the members of Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities, who have come from the three countries to India till December 31, 2014, to put an end to them being treated as illegal immigrants in the country. The Bill was passed by the Lower House of the Parliament earlier this year but lapsed with the term of the previous Lok Sabha during the first term of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi government in the Centre.

Muslim community not named in CAB even once: Amit Shah

The upper house of the Indian Parliament Rajya Sabha takes up the issue of air pollution. Watch this video to find out more.

Your Story: Rajya Sabha takes up the issue of air pollution

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday extended the day's proceedings of the Lower House of the Parliament by half-an-hour over the debate on air pollution.

The Lok Sabha Speaker today expressed displeasure over the absence of Parliament officers and staff during important discussions or sittings in the House. He has also issued a notice to them asking for a reply.

Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Gautam Gambhir said, "The topic of discussion is something that affects everyone irrespective of our caste, creed, age and religion. It's affecting us while we stand and talk about it in Parliament. It's high time we stop politicising this issue."

"The state is that of a climate emergency - Delhi is the worst affected. The state can no longer get away with gimmick like Odd-Even and banning construction sites. We need long term sustainable solutions and stop the blame game. It's time to own up and act responsibly," he added.

On the issue of stubble burning, Gambhir said, "We have to devise a strategy for representatives of various states to work together to solve this crisis. Merely penalizing farmers for burning their crops will not be enough. We have to start exploring innovative ways."

BJP MPs Ramesh Bidhuri and Hans Raj Hans did not attend the debate over air pollution in the Lok Sabha, while Union Minister and MP Harsh Vardhan was speaking in the Rajya Sabha on the Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2019.

During the debate, BJP MP Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma slammed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and said that all that he has given to Delhi for free is pollution.

"For the last 4.5 years, the Delhi Chief Minister kept saying that the Prime Minister doesn't let him work, the Delhi Lieutenant Governor doesn't let him work. In the last six months everyone is letting him work, he is distributing everything for free," Verma said.

"Aaj jo usne (Delhi Chief Minister) Delhi ko diya hai ki 5 saal pehle akela Delhi Chief Minister khaasta tha, aaj poori Dilli khaas rahi hai. All he has given to Delhi for free is pollution," he added. 
After days of 'severe' and 'very poor' air quality, Delhi and its nearby areas witnessed a change with AQI improving to the 'poor' category on Tuesday.

Today, the overall air quality of Delhi was recorded at 218, with PM 10 at 155 and PM 2.5 at 67.&nbsp;

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday extended the day's proceedings of the Lower House of the Parliament by half-an-hour over the debate on air pollution. The Lok Sabha Speaker today expressed displeasure over the absence of Parliament officers and staff during important discussions or sittings in the House.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday extended the day's proceedings of the Lower House of the Parliament by half-an-hour over the debate on air pollution. The Lok Sabha Speaker today expressed displeasure over the absence of Parliament officers and staff during important discussions or sittings in the House. He has also issued a notice to them asking for a reply. Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Gautam Gambhir said, "The topic of discussion is something that affects everyone irrespective of our caste, creed, age and religion. It's affecting us while we stand and talk about it in Parliament. It's high time we stop politicising this issue." "The state is that of a climate emergency - Delhi is the worst affected. The state can no longer get away with gimmick like Odd-Even and banning construction sites. We need long term sustainable solutions and stop the blame game. It's time to own up and act responsibly," he added. On the issue of stubble burning, Gambhir said, "We have to devise a strategy for representatives of various states to work together to solve this crisis. Merely penalizing farmers for burning their crops will not be enough. We have to start exploring innovative ways." BJP MPs Ramesh Bidhuri and Hans Raj Hans did not attend the debate over air pollution in the Lok Sabha, while Union Minister and MP Harsh Vardhan was speaking in the Rajya Sabha on the Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2019. During the debate, BJP MP Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma slammed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and said that all that he has given to Delhi for free is pollution. "For the last 4.5 years, the Delhi Chief Minister kept saying that the Prime Minister doesn't let him work, the Delhi Lieutenant Governor doesn't let him work. In the last six months everyone is letting him work, he is distributing everything for free," Verma said. "Aaj jo usne (Delhi Chief Minister) Delhi ko diya hai ki 5 saal pehle akela Delhi Chief Minister khaasta tha, aaj poori Dilli khaas rahi hai. All he has given to Delhi for free is pollution," he added. After days of 'severe' and 'very poor' air quality, Delhi and its nearby areas witnessed a change with AQI improving to the 'poor' category on Tuesday. Today, the overall air quality of Delhi was recorded at 218, with PM 10 at 155 and PM 2.5 at 67.

Lok Sabha extended for half-an-hour over air pollution debate

September 22, 2019, is an inflection point in the long journey of the Indian diaspora. #HowdyModi is a first in many ways for its sheer scale and impact.&nbsp;

For the first time in recent history, a bipartisan array of lawmakers and the President of the United States of America were being hosted on their own soil by a foreign leader at a public event.&nbsp;

At 31 million, People of Indian Origin (PIO) constitute one of the - if not the largest - diasporas in the world. Due to internal fragmentation, it has remained largely only on paper, and never fulfilled its political potential.&nbsp;

Globally through his community events, Modi has been able to bring the diaspora together like never before. Through the power of their numbers and achievements, and his personal charisma, Modi has made the Indian diaspora a force to reckon with.&nbsp;

But political power is the first step. India should leverage the potential of the diaspora further and engage them in her growth story.

The Indian diaspora is globally respected as a law-abiding and professionally successful people. Through their grit and hard work, many of them have gone on to become the heads of state, CEOs of large corporations, award-winning scientists, etc. They contribute about 3 per cent of India’s GDP through their remittances.&nbsp;

Other than inviting investments and remittances, India is yet to engage their expertise back home yet. We are underutilising the potential of our diaspora. &nbsp;The first step of uniting them and connecting them emotionally back to the Indian growth story has been achieved. It is time for the next step, to engage their functional expertise.

One institutional method of engaging the Indian diaspora would be to create an elected shadow Cabinet, which would support the Indian Cabinet ministers through their domain expertise.&nbsp;

This shadow Cabinet can be elected globally through an online voting process. There can be specific shadow Cabinet ministers based on functional expertise - science and technology, space, commerce and industry, tourism, new and renewable energy, electronics and information technology and shipping, among others.

Another deeper institutional engagement is to have the diaspora’s representation in the Indian Parliament itself. At the current numbers of 31 million PIOs, we could perhaps think of adding a few ‘diaspora seats’ in the Lok Sabha (with lesser powers than the domestic representatives).&nbsp;

Alternatively, India can constitute a third house in the Parliament with its own mandate, say a ‘Pravasi Sabha’. The sabha can be elected by PIOs in pre-defined constituencies globally via online voting. They can meet annually, rather than as per the current schedule of the Parliament. &nbsp;There are obvious concerns about undue foreign influence in sovereign legislation. These concerns can be addressed and avoided if India legislates the mandate of the Pravasi parliamentarians carefully - giving them enough opportunity to support, but not powers that lead to unwanted lobbying of foreign interests.&nbsp;

Just like companies have different classes of shares that define their powers, Pravasi sabha is not equivalent to other houses. &nbsp;The Indian diaspora can be trusted to perform a constructive role through its representation in the Parliament. This is not just an enabler, but a testimony of the Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbhakam.

Given the excitement of the Indian diaspora to contribute back to their home country, this would offer them an unprecedented opportunity at the highest level.&nbsp;

India would, in turn, be able to engage the best talent globally in its growth story. It is a win-win for all parties. The diaspora, which was once ignored and fragmented, can become a potent force for India.&nbsp;

Such a tricameral house will be a first in the world. India’s unique strength to conceive and implement this lies in the large population of its diaspora and a deep connection with their motherland that has been brought to the forefront under Prime Minister Modi, who has to his credit many firsts, whether domestic or foreign. This foreign policy innovation of engaging diaspora back with the motherland through the Parliament will perhaps be the most innovative of them all. 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-diaspora-in-parliament-an-idea-whose-time-has-come-2795692">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

September 22, 2019, is an inflection point in the long journey of the Indian diaspora. #HowdyModi is a first in many ways for its sheer scale and impact. For the first time in recent history, a bipartisan array of lawmakers and the President of the United States of America were being hosted on their own soil by a foreign leader at a public event.

September 22, 2019, is an inflection point in the long journey of the Indian diaspora. #HowdyModi is a first in many ways for its sheer scale and impact. For the first time in recent history, a bipartisan array of lawmakers and the President of the United States of America were being hosted on their own soil by a foreign leader at a public event. At 31 million, People of Indian Origin (PIO) constitute one of the - if not the largest - diasporas in the world. Due to internal fragmentation, it has remained largely only on paper, and never fulfilled its political potential. Globally through his community events, Modi has been able to bring the diaspora together like never before. Through the power of their numbers and achievements, and his personal charisma, Modi has made the Indian diaspora a force to reckon with. But political power is the first step. India should leverage the potential of the diaspora further and engage them in her growth story. The Indian diaspora is globally respected as a law-abiding and professionally successful people. Through their grit and hard work, many of them have gone on to become the heads of state, CEOs of large corporations, award-winning scientists, etc. They contribute about 3 per cent of India’s GDP through their remittances. Other than inviting investments and remittances, India is yet to engage their expertise back home yet. We are underutilising the potential of our diaspora. The first step of uniting them and connecting them emotionally back to the Indian growth story has been achieved. It is time for the next step, to engage their functional expertise. One institutional method of engaging the Indian diaspora would be to create an elected shadow Cabinet, which would support the Indian Cabinet ministers through their domain expertise. This shadow Cabinet can be elected globally through an online voting process. There can be specific shadow Cabinet ministers based on functional expertise - science and technology, space, commerce and industry, tourism, new and renewable energy, electronics and information technology and shipping, among others. Another deeper institutional engagement is to have the diaspora’s representation in the Indian Parliament itself. At the current numbers of 31 million PIOs, we could perhaps think of adding a few ‘diaspora seats’ in the Lok Sabha (with lesser powers than the domestic representatives). Alternatively, India can constitute a third house in the Parliament with its own mandate, say a ‘Pravasi Sabha’. The sabha can be elected by PIOs in pre-defined constituencies globally via online voting. They can meet annually, rather than as per the current schedule of the Parliament. There are obvious concerns about undue foreign influence in sovereign legislation. These concerns can be addressed and avoided if India legislates the mandate of the Pravasi parliamentarians carefully - giving them enough opportunity to support, but not powers that lead to unwanted lobbying of foreign interests. Just like companies have different classes of shares that define their powers, Pravasi sabha is not equivalent to other houses. The Indian diaspora can be trusted to perform a constructive role through its representation in the Parliament. This is not just an enabler, but a testimony of the Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbhakam. Given the excitement of the Indian diaspora to contribute back to their home country, this would offer them an unprecedented opportunity at the highest level. India would, in turn, be able to engage the best talent globally in its growth story. It is a win-win for all parties. The diaspora, which was once ignored and fragmented, can become a potent force for India. Such a tricameral house will be a first in the world. India’s unique strength to conceive and implement this lies in the large population of its diaspora and a deep connection with their motherland that has been brought to the forefront under Prime Minister Modi, who has to his credit many firsts, whether domestic or foreign. This foreign policy innovation of engaging diaspora back with the motherland through the Parliament will perhaps be the most innovative of them all. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Diaspora in Parliament: An idea whose time has come

Lok Sabha proceedings were adjourned till noon on Monday following protests by the Congress and other parties on various issues.

Congress members, seeking to raise the Rafale fighter jet deal, trooped into the Well of the House with placards as soon as the House met for the day.

A lone AIADMK member was also in the Well, protesting the construction of a dam across the Cauvery river. He was joined by a TDP member, who was dressed like former Tamil Nadu chief minister M G Ramachandran.

Members from the Left and the SP also sought to raise certain issues from their seats and a few Left members were standing in the aisle.

Within five minutes, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan adjourned the proceedings till noon as the din continued.&nbsp;

Lok Sabha proceedings were adjourned till noon on Monday following protests by the Congress and other parties on various issues. Congress members, seeking to raise the Rafale fighter jet deal, trooped into the Well of the House with placards as soon as the House met for the day.

Lok Sabha proceedings were adjourned till noon on Monday following protests by the Congress and other parties on various issues. Congress members, seeking to raise the Rafale fighter jet deal, trooped into the Well of the House with placards as soon as the House met for the day. A lone AIADMK member was also in the Well, protesting the construction of a dam across the Cauvery river. He was joined by a TDP member, who was dressed like former Tamil Nadu chief minister M G Ramachandran. Members from the Left and the SP also sought to raise certain issues from their seats and a few Left members were standing in the aisle. Within five minutes, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan adjourned the proceedings till noon as the din continued.

Lok Sabha adjourns till noon amid protests over various issues

The Rajya Sabha will take up the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill '18, popularly known as Triple Talaq Bill, on Thursday for consideration and passing.

The Bill criminalises the practice of instant triple talaq with a provision of 3 years'&nbsp;imprisonment to the husband.

The Upper House could not discuss the Bill on Wednesday due to repeated adjournments following the ruckus created by opposition members over the Bill and the Centre's approval to Karnataka's Mekedatu dam on Cauvery river.

The Triple Talaq Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha on December 27 last year with 245 votes in favour and 11 against the Bill.

The opposition parties want the Bill to be sent to the Select Committee of Parliament for further vetting, a demand rejected by the Centre.

According to the Business List, the Upper House will also take up for consideration and passing the National Council for Technical Education (NCTE) Amendment Bill '18, and Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Amendment Bill '18, the Appropriation (No.6) Bill '18.

Union Shipping and Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari will also make a statement on Mekedatu project of Karnataka. AIADMK leader and Deputy Lok Sabha Speaker M Thambi Durai has said the Centre's nod to Mekedatu project is the BJP's electoral ploy.

The Winter Session of Parliament, which began on December 11, will conclude on January 8.

The Rajya Sabha will take up the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill '18, popularly known as Triple Talaq Bill, on Thursday for consideration and passing.

The Rajya Sabha will take up the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill '18, popularly known as Triple Talaq Bill, on Thursday for consideration and passing. The Bill criminalises the practice of instant triple talaq with a provision of 3 years' imprisonment to the husband. The Upper House could not discuss the Bill on Wednesday due to repeated adjournments following the ruckus created by opposition members over the Bill and the Centre's approval to Karnataka's Mekedatu dam on Cauvery river. The Triple Talaq Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha on December 27 last year with 245 votes in favour and 11 against the Bill. The opposition parties want the Bill to be sent to the Select Committee of Parliament for further vetting, a demand rejected by the Centre. According to the Business List, the Upper House will also take up for consideration and passing the National Council for Technical Education (NCTE) Amendment Bill '18, and Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Amendment Bill '18, the Appropriation (No.6) Bill '18. Union Shipping and Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari will also make a statement on Mekedatu project of Karnataka. AIADMK leader and Deputy Lok Sabha Speaker M Thambi Durai has said the Centre's nod to Mekedatu project is the BJP's electoral ploy. The Winter Session of Parliament, which began on December 11, will conclude on January 8.

Rajya Sabha to take up triple talaq bill today

Launching a scathing attack on Congress during a debate on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/petitioners-arun-shourie-yashwant-sinha-prashant-bhushan-to-move-sc-for-review-of-rafale-judgment-187838">Rafale deal </a>in Parliament, Union minister Arun Jaitley said that Rahul Gandhi is too scared to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-dont-think-there-is-anything-to-worry-about-french-ambassador-to-india-on-rafale-deal-controversy-186865">authenticate the tape</a> he wants to produce in Lok Sabha.

"On the last occasion, he (Rahul Gandhi) manufactured a conversation between him and the former French president. Today, he repeats the same. Today, he tried to produce a tap but he is too scared to authenticate it," Jaitley said in Lok Sabha on Wednesday.

Accusing Rahul Gandhi of lying, Jaitley said, "The country is disappointed because every word the Congress lead speaker (Rahul Gandhi) has said is a lie on the word of the Supreme Court. When the apex court speaks on every issue, it is treated as the last word, except for the jurisdiction on certain issues in Parliament. Rahul Gandhi here says each of the contentions was raised before the court. There are some people who have a natural dislike for truth, from the first to the last word, every word has spoken is a lie."&nbsp;

Earlier today, Rahul opened the debate and hit out at the government. He also attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying his interview to news agency ANI on the first day of the new year was staged.

Rahul said the PM does not have the guts to face questions on Rafale deal and is "hiding in his room".

He also sought Speaker's permission to play an audio clip wherein a Goa minister is allegedly heard quoting Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar that the latter has Rafale files in his bedroom. However, the Speaker denied him permission after Jaitley stepped in. Rahul then sought to read the transcript of the purported statement.

"PM spoke for 90 minutes in a staged interview but still did not answer questions on Rafale," Rahul said.

The Congress president said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi claimed that nobody was accusing him of wrongdoing on Rafale. "This is untrue. The entire nation is asking a direct question on Rafale but the prime minister could not answer a straight question even in a one-hour-long staged interview," Rahul said.

Continuing his attack, Gandhi also said that PM Modi does not have the guts to come to parliament to confront questions on rafale.

Launching a scathing attack on Congress during a debate on Rafale deal in Parliament, Union minister Arun Jaitley said that Rahul Gandhi is too scared to authenticate the tape he wants to produce in Lok Sabha. "On the last occasion, he (Rahul Gandhi) manufactured a conversation between him and the former French president. Today, he repeats the same. Today, he tried to produce a tap but he is too scared to authenticate it," Jaitley said in Lok Sabha on Wednesday. Accusing Rahul Gandhi of lying, Jaitley said, "The country is disappointed because every word the Congress lead speaker (Rahul Gandhi) has said is a lie on the word of the Supreme Court. When the apex court speaks on every issue, it is treated as the last word, except for the jurisdiction on certain issues in Parliament. Rahul Gandhi here says each of the contentions was raised before the court. There are some people who have a natural dislike for truth, from the first to the last word, every word has spoken is a lie." Earlier today, Rahul opened the debate and hit out at the government. He also attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying his interview to news agency ANI on the first day of the new year was staged. Rahul said the PM does not have the guts to face questions on Rafale deal and is "hiding in his room". He also sought Speaker's permission to play an audio clip wherein a Goa minister is allegedly heard quoting Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar that the latter has Rafale files in his bedroom. However, the Speaker denied him permission after Jaitley stepped in. Rahul then sought to read the transcript of the purported statement. "PM spoke for 90 minutes in a staged interview but still did not answer questions on Rafale," Rahul said. The Congress president said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi claimed that nobody was accusing him of wrongdoing on Rafale. "This is untrue. The entire nation is asking a direct question on Rafale but the prime minister could not answer a straight question even in a one-hour-long staged interview," Rahul said.

Rafale deal debate: Arun Jaitley flays Rahul Gandhi who said PM Modi doesn't have guts to face questions

The Rajya Sabha was Thursday adjourned for the day without transacting any business after ruckus in the House over the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/arun-jaitley-rules-out-setting-up-jpc-on-rafale-deal-184589"> Rafale fighter jet deal</a> and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cauvery-row-hd-kumaraswamy-meeting-pm-a-waste-of-time-says-djayakumar--145439">Cauvery river issue</a>.

Soon after the House met for the day, slogan-shouting members of Tamil parties - AIADMK and DMK -- trooped into the well of the House over the Cauvery issue.

Opposition Congress members also shouted slogans and held placards seeking a probe by the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) into the purchase of Rafale jets from France.

Treasury benches countered Congress members with slogans demanding an apology from Congress President Rahul Gandhi following the Supreme Court clean chit to the Rafale deal.

Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu said all issues can be discussed and members should allow the House to function.

"Many issues are pending. Important bills are there. We have to discuss about (devastation caused by) cyclones (in some states)," he said.

He said a notice has been given on the Rafale deal. "We can discuss Rafale deal too. The government has given in writing that it has no objection to a discussion on Rafale."

Besides discussions on distress in the agriculture sector and price rise are also slated, he said.

"The entire country is agitated about the way the House is functioning. The whole country is watching," he said before adjourning the proceedings for the day.

Earlier, Naidu said he had gone into the records after Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Vijay Goel had on Wednesday demanded that Congress deputy leader Anand Sharma withdraw his remarks about him.

Naidu said Sharma had on December 18, while raising a point of order, stated that Goel had sought an apology from Rahul Gandhi, who is a member of the Lok Sabha, over the Rafale issue.

However, Goel had on December 19 stated that he made no reference to Rahul Gandhi and Anand Sharma should withdraw his remarks, Naidu said, adding he went through the records carefully and found that Goel had not referred to Gandhi.

"Therefore the averment made by Goel is correct," he said.

Sharma said he respects the ruling of the Chair but there were a din and commotion in the House and ruling party members were standing and shouting slogans seeking an apology from Gandhi.

Naidu, however, said the record is straight.

"Statement made by Goel seems to be correct," Naidu said.&nbsp;

The Rajya Sabha was Thursday adjourned for the day without transacting any business after ruckus in the House over the Rafale fighter jet deal and Cauvery river issue.

The Rajya Sabha was Thursday adjourned for the day without transacting any business after ruckus in the House over the Rafale fighter jet deal and Cauvery river issue. Soon after the House met for the day, slogan-shouting members of Tamil parties - AIADMK and DMK -- trooped into the well of the House over the Cauvery issue. Opposition Congress members also shouted slogans and held placards seeking a probe by the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) into the purchase of Rafale jets from France. Treasury benches countered Congress members with slogans demanding an apology from Congress President Rahul Gandhi following the Supreme Court clean chit to the Rafale deal. Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu said all issues can be discussed and members should allow the House to function. "Many issues are pending. Important bills are there. We have to discuss about (devastation caused by) cyclones (in some states)," he said. He said a notice has been given on the Rafale deal. "We can discuss Rafale deal too. The government has given in writing that it has no objection to a discussion on Rafale." Besides discussions on distress in the agriculture sector and price rise are also slated, he said. "The entire country is agitated about the way the House is functioning. The whole country is watching," he said before adjourning the proceedings for the day. Earlier, Naidu said he had gone into the records after Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Vijay Goel had on Wednesday demanded that Congress deputy leader Anand Sharma withdraw his remarks about him. Naidu said Sharma had on December 18, while raising a point of order, stated that Goel had sought an apology from Rahul Gandhi, who is a member of the Lok Sabha, over the Rafale issue. However, Goel had on December 19 stated that he made no reference to Rahul Gandhi and Anand Sharma should withdraw his remarks, Naidu said, adding he went through the records carefully and found that Goel had not referred to Gandhi. "Therefore the averment made by Goel is correct," he said. Sharma said he respects the ruling of the Chair but there were a din and commotion in the House and ruling party members were standing and shouting slogans seeking an apology from Gandhi. Naidu, however, said the record is straight. "Statement made by Goel seems to be correct," Naidu said.

Rajya Sabha adjourned after ruckus over Rafale, Cauvery river issue

The Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day on Thursday after two brief adjournments during the question hour following the ruckus created by opposition party members over several issues including Rafale deal, demand for special status to Andhra Pradesh and Cauvery river water.

As soon as the Question Hour began after paying tributes to martyrs of the 2001 Parliament attack, members from the Congress, TDP and AIADMK rushed to the Well raising slogans.&nbsp;

Demanding a law on construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya, Shiv Sena members were seen holding placards in the aisle.&nbsp;

TDP member Venkateshwara Rao (Babu) used a mike installed in the Well for the oath of a new member to prop up a poster seeking special status for Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;

A Lok Sabha secretariat staffer tried to convince him not to use the mike. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Narendra Singh Tomar too tried to convince him to keep down the mike.&nbsp;

The TDP member's action invited the ire of Speaker Sumitra Mahajan who warned him that he will be named.&nbsp;

Once a member is named, he or she has to leave the House chamber.&nbsp;

The Speaker then adjourned the House for nearly 10 minutes till 11.20 AM.&nbsp;

When the House assembled again, Mahajan reminded the members that they can raise issues under various rules.&nbsp;

Apparently referring to the Lok Sabha polls due in 2019, she said it was a "crucial time" and members should use it to raise issues related to the public.&nbsp;

She said Lok Sabha is for all states and regions and all should get a chance to raise their respective issues.&nbsp;

But opposition members remained unconvinced and returned to the Well.&nbsp;

Members of the Shiv Sena were seated on the front rows but did not raise slogans.&nbsp;

Members from TMC, Left and NCP were also seated on their benches.&nbsp;

As the bedlam continued, the House was adjourned for nearly 30 minutes till noon.&nbsp;

(With inputs from news agencies)

The Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day on Thursday after two brief adjournments during the question hour following the ruckus created by opposition party members over several issues including Rafale deal, demand for special status to Andhra Pradesh and Cauvery river water.

The Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day on Thursday after two brief adjournments during the question hour following the ruckus created by opposition party members over several issues including Rafale deal, demand for special status to Andhra Pradesh and Cauvery river water. As soon as the Question Hour began after paying tributes to martyrs of the 2001 Parliament attack, members from the Congress, TDP and AIADMK rushed to the Well raising slogans. Demanding a law on construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya, Shiv Sena members were seen holding placards in the aisle. TDP member Venkateshwara Rao (Babu) used a mike installed in the Well for the oath of a new member to prop up a poster seeking special status for Andhra Pradesh. A Lok Sabha secretariat staffer tried to convince him not to use the mike. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Narendra Singh Tomar too tried to convince him to keep down the mike. The TDP member's action invited the ire of Speaker Sumitra Mahajan who warned him that he will be named. Once a member is named, he or she has to leave the House chamber. The Speaker then adjourned the House for nearly 10 minutes till 11.20 AM. When the House assembled again, Mahajan reminded the members that they can raise issues under various rules. Apparently referring to the Lok Sabha polls due in 2019, she said it was a "crucial time" and members should use it to raise issues related to the public. She said Lok Sabha is for all states and regions and all should get a chance to raise their respective issues. But opposition members remained unconvinced and returned to the Well. Members of the Shiv Sena were seated on the front rows but did not raise slogans. Members from TMC, Left and NCP were also seated on their benches. As the bedlam continued, the House was adjourned for nearly 30 minutes till noon. (With inputs from news agencies)

Lok Sabha adjourned for the day after opposition protests over Rafale deal, Cauvery river water

Seven sitting parliamentarians and 199 MLAs in the country have not declared their PAN details which is needed in filing nomination papers for elections, a report said Friday.

The report prepared after analysis of permanent account number(PAN) details of 542 Lok Sabha MPs and 4,086 MLAs has been brought out by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and the National Election Watch (NEW).

Details of PAN are to be furnished before returning officers by candidates contesting elections for parliament and state legislative bodies, in affidavits along with their nomination papers.

"The highest number of MLAs (51) who have not declared PAN details are from Congress followed by 42 BJP MLAs, 25 CPI(M) MLAs. Statewise, the highest number (33) was from Kerala, followed by Mizoram (28) and Madhya Pradesh (19)," said a statement from ADR.

Interestingly, Mizoram state Assembly has a strength of 40 MLAs out of which 28 did not give details of their PAN.

In case of MPs, two each from Odisha (both from BJD) and Tamil Nadu (both AIDMK), and one each from Assam, Mizoram and Lakshadweep have not declared their PAN details. One MP each from Congress, AIUDF and NCP have also not declared their PAN details, said the report.

The highest number of reelected MLAs (18) whose PAN details had discrepancy belonged to the BJP followed by nine from the Congress and three from the JD(U),

Four reelected MPs from the BJD, two reelected MPs each from the BJP and the Congress, and one reelected MP each of the NCP and JD(S) have discrepancy in their PAN details, the report said.

Seven sitting parliamentarians and 199 MLAs in the country have not declared their PAN details which is needed in filing nomination papers for elections, a report said Friday.

Seven sitting parliamentarians and 199 MLAs in the country have not declared their PAN details which is needed in filing nomination papers for elections, a report said Friday. The report prepared after analysis of permanent account number(PAN) details of 542 Lok Sabha MPs and 4,086 MLAs has been brought out by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and the National Election Watch (NEW). Details of PAN are to be furnished before returning officers by candidates contesting elections for parliament and state legislative bodies, in affidavits along with their nomination papers. "The highest number of MLAs (51) who have not declared PAN details are from Congress followed by 42 BJP MLAs, 25 CPI(M) MLAs. Statewise, the highest number (33) was from Kerala, followed by Mizoram (28) and Madhya Pradesh (19)," said a statement from ADR. Interestingly, Mizoram state Assembly has a strength of 40 MLAs out of which 28 did not give details of their PAN. In case of MPs, two each from Odisha (both from BJD) and Tamil Nadu (both AIDMK), and one each from Assam, Mizoram and Lakshadweep have not declared their PAN details. One MP each from Congress, AIUDF and NCP have also not declared their PAN details, said the report. The highest number of reelected MLAs (18) whose PAN details had discrepancy belonged to the BJP followed by nine from the Congress and three from the JD(U), Four reelected MPs from the BJD, two reelected MPs each from the BJP and the Congress, and one reelected MP each of the NCP and JD(S) have discrepancy in their PAN details, the report said.

7 lawmakers, 199 legislators have not declared PAN details: Report

According to the Indo-Pak Conflict Monitor, which tracks ceasefire violations on both sides of the border, India has already reported — till February 2018 — 633 ceasefire violations this year.&nbsp

Pakistan on the other hand has reported — till March 22, 2018 — 690 ceasefire violations.&nbsp

To put that in perspective, in 2017, India reported 771 ceasefire violations along the Line of Control, the International Border, and the Actual Ground Position Line in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp

And only 228 in 2016.&nbsp

But that of course was the year of the "surgical strikes", when Indian soldiers crossed the border and hit what the army referred to as a "terror launchpad".&nbsp

Ever since then, there has been a massive surge in ceasefire violations along the border.&nbsp

The ceasefire between India and Pakistan was signed in 2003. The nitty gritty of the agreement was worked out by the DGMOs (Director General of Military Operations) of the two armies.&nbsp

Some of the reasons stated for the accord at the time sound rather prosaic now — it would for example allow the two armies to move stores. (There was of course also the fact that it would allow them to evacuate their wounded.)&nbsp

But the accord itself was pretty significant considering the two countries had come close to war in 2001 after the terror attack on the Indian Parliament, which the country alleged was launched from Pakistan.&nbsp

The ceasefire held for 10 years.&nbsp

Then in January 2013 India alleged that a Pakistani Border Action Team crossed over, ambushed an Indian Army patrol, and killed two soldiers.&nbsp

One of the two soldiers was beheaded.&nbsp

Pakistan denied the claim but the allegation caused massive outrage in India.&nbsp

Salman Khurshid, the then minister for External Affairs, vowed a “proportionate” response.&nbsp

The never-ending cycle of tit-for-tat that ensued has never stopped.&nbsp

And by now of course, with a ceasefire violation reported virtually every day along the border, it is fair to say that the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan exists only on paper. For all practical purposes, the agreement is as good as dead.&nbsp

 
&nbsp

2018 is already well on its to witnessing the highest number of ceasefire violations along the India-Pakistan border. The agreement, signed in 2003, exists only on paper

According to the Indo-Pak Conflict Monitor, which tracks ceasefire violations on both sides of the border, India has already reported — till February 2018 — 633 ceasefire violations this year. Pakistan on the other hand has reported — till March 22, 2018 — 690 ceasefire violations. To put that in perspective, in 2017, India reported 771 ceasefire violations along the Line of Control, the International Border, and the Actual Ground Position Line in Jammu and Kashmir. And only 228 in 2016. But that of course was the year of the "surgical strikes", when Indian soldiers crossed the border and hit what the army referred to as a "terror launchpad". Ever since then, there has been a massive surge in ceasefire violations along the border. The ceasefire between India and Pakistan was signed in 2003. The nitty gritty of the agreement was worked out by the DGMOs (Director General of Military Operations) of the two armies. Some of the reasons stated for the accord at the time sound rather prosaic now — it would for example allow the two armies to move stores. (There was of course also the fact that it would allow them to evacuate their wounded.) But the accord itself was pretty significant considering the two countries had come close to war in 2001 after the terror attack on the Indian Parliament, which the country alleged was launched from Pakistan. The ceasefire held for 10 years. Then in January 2013 India alleged that a Pakistani Border Action Team crossed over, ambushed an Indian Army patrol, and killed two soldiers. One of the two soldiers was beheaded. Pakistan denied the claim but the allegation caused massive outrage in India. Salman Khurshid, the then minister for External Affairs, vowed a “proportionate” response. The never-ending cycle of tit-for-tat that ensued has never stopped. And by now of course, with a ceasefire violation reported virtually every day along the border, it is fair to say that the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan exists only on paper. For all practical purposes, the agreement is as good as dead.

Analysis: Ceasefire Agreement between India and Pakistan is as good as dead

Union minister Vijay Goel will meet key opposition leaders at their residence in an effort to break the logjam in Parliament, which has been paralysed for 14 days due to protests by various parties.

The government is willing for a discussion on no-confidence motions against it and enjoys a strong majority in the Lok Sabha, Goel, who is Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, said on Thursday, wondering why the opposition leaders were debating on television and not in the House.

Goel said he will be visiting key leaders of opposition parties, including the Congress, AIADMK, TDP and TRS, to persuade them to call off their protests, which have resulted in a washout of Parliament&#39;s proceedings since March 5 when it met after a recess to continue the Budget session.

At a press conference, Goel noted that over Rs 2.5 lakh is spent per minute in running Parliament, and asked opposition parties to raise their issues and debate them in the two Houses.

The second leg of the Budget Session is of 23 days and all 14 days so far have been wasted, Goel said.

&quot;I have been meeting opposition leaders in Parliament and will now visit their homes to persuade them to call off their protests and start discussion on their issues&quot; in the two Houses, he said.

On issues like the PNB scam, the government has more to tell the people than the opposition, he claimed and said the Modi government has been an honest dispensation which has worked against corruption.

&quot;Parliament is meant for debate. It is sad that opposition leaders can debate outside and on TV channels but not in Parliament. It is also strange for some of them to keep protesting in the Well of the two Houses and then say that it is the government&#39;s job to run them,&quot; he said.

Arjun Ram Meghwal, who is also a junior minister for parliamentary affairs, said it is difficult for the Speaker to take up notices for no-confidence motions as long as members are present in the Well as she is required to do a head-count of members supporting the notices.

The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the YSR Congress have given notices for no confidence motion against the government following the Centre&#39;s stand that it cannot provide special category status to Andhra Pradesh.

Several parties have been protesting in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha over various of issues such as banking scam, Cauvery board, special status to Andhra Pradesh and quota hike, leading to daily adjournments.

A large number of bills, including on triple talaq, whistleblower protection and OBC Commission, are pending in Parliament. The Lok Sabha passed the crucial Finance Bill without any discussion. A couple of other bills have also been pushed in the two houses amid the din.&nbsp;

Union minister Vijay Goel will meet key opposition leaders at their residence in an effort to break the logjam in Parliament, which has been paralysed for 14 days due to protests by various parties

Union minister Vijay Goel will meet key opposition leaders at their residence in an effort to break the logjam in Parliament, which has been paralysed for 14 days due to protests by various parties. The government is willing for a discussion on no-confidence motions against it and enjoys a strong majority in the Lok Sabha, Goel, who is Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, said on Thursday, wondering why the opposition leaders were debating on television and not in the House. Goel said he will be visiting key leaders of opposition parties, including the Congress, AIADMK, TDP and TRS, to persuade them to call off their protests, which have resulted in a washout of Parliament's proceedings since March 5 when it met after a recess to continue the Budget session. At a press conference, Goel noted that over Rs 2.5 lakh is spent per minute in running Parliament, and asked opposition parties to raise their issues and debate them in the two Houses. The second leg of the Budget Session is of 23 days and all 14 days so far have been wasted, Goel said. "I have been meeting opposition leaders in Parliament and will now visit their homes to persuade them to call off their protests and start discussion on their issues" in the two Houses, he said. On issues like the PNB scam, the government has more to tell the people than the opposition, he claimed and said the Modi government has been an honest dispensation which has worked against corruption. "Parliament is meant for debate. It is sad that opposition leaders can debate outside and on TV channels but not in Parliament. It is also strange for some of them to keep protesting in the Well of the two Houses and then say that it is the government's job to run them," he said. Arjun Ram Meghwal, who is also a junior minister for parliamentary affairs, said it is difficult for the Speaker to take up notices for no-confidence motions as long as members are present in the Well as she is required to do a head-count of members supporting the notices. The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the YSR Congress have given notices for no confidence motion against the government following the Centre's stand that it cannot provide special category status to Andhra Pradesh. Several parties have been protesting in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha over various of issues such as banking scam, Cauvery board, special status to Andhra Pradesh and quota hike, leading to daily adjournments. A large number of bills, including on triple talaq, whistleblower protection and OBC Commission, are pending in Parliament. The Lok Sabha passed the crucial Finance Bill without any discussion. A couple of other bills have also been pushed in the two houses amid the din.

Union minister Vijay Goel to reach out to opposition leaders to break Parliament logjam

Both houses of Parliament were adjourned Wednesday after the Opposition raised an uproar over Union Minister Ananth Kumar Hegde&#39;s statements on secularism and changing the constitution.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/those-who-call-themselves-secular-dont-know-about-their-parentage-mp-ananth-kumar-hegde-27714" target="_blank">&#39;Those who call themselves secular don&#39;t know about their parentage,&#39; says Karnataka MP</a>

There had been pandemonium in the Rajya Sabha after the Leader of the Opposition in the house, the Congress&#39;s Ghulam Nabi Azad, brought up the issue.&nbsp;

&quot;If a person has no belief in the constitution, he has no right to be a member of Parliament,&quot; Azad had said.&nbsp;

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Congress&#39; Ghulam Nabi Azad raises the issue of remarks made by Union Minister Ananth Kumar Hegde about the constitution, in Rajya Sabha; says &quot;if a person has no belief in the constitution, he has no right to be a member of Parliament&quot; <a href="https://t.co/UDaMge4yOd">pic.twitter.com/UDaMge4yOd</a>
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Both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha were adjourned till noon.&nbsp;

The Congress had in the morning given an adjournment motion notice in the Lok Sabha over Hegde&#39;s remarks.&nbsp;

The Congress had also given a&nbsp;suspension of business notice in the Rajya Sabha under over PM Modi&rsquo;s remarks about former PM Manmohan Singh.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-claims-pakistan-trying-to-influence-gujarat-elections-26391" target="_blank">Modi claims Pakistan trying to influence Gujarat elections</a>

The Congress has demanded an apology from the prime minister on the floor of the house.&nbsp;

The BJP has so far said there will be no apology coming.&nbsp;

The Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were both adjourned till 12 pm

Both houses of Parliament were adjourned Wednesday after the Opposition raised an uproar over Union Minister Ananth Kumar Hegde's statements on secularism and changing the constitution. Also read: 'Those who call themselves secular don't know about their parentage,' says Karnataka MP There had been pandemonium in the Rajya Sabha after the Leader of the Opposition in the house, the Congress's Ghulam Nabi Azad, brought up the issue. "If a person has no belief in the constitution, he has no right to be a member of Parliament," Azad had said. Congress' Ghulam Nabi Azad raises the issue of remarks made by Union Minister Ananth Kumar Hegde about the constitution, in Rajya Sabha; says "if a person has no belief in the constitution, he has no right to be a member of Parliament" pic.twitter.com/UDaMge4yOd — ANI (@ANI) December 27, 2017 × Both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha were adjourned till noon. The Congress had in the morning given an adjournment motion notice in the Lok Sabha over Hegde's remarks. The Congress had also given a suspension of business notice in the Rajya Sabha under over PM Modi’s remarks about former PM Manmohan Singh. Also read: Modi claims Pakistan trying to influence Gujarat elections The Congress has demanded an apology from the prime minister on the floor of the house. The BJP has so far said there will be no apology coming.

Both houses of Parliament adjourned over MP's statement on secularism, changing constitution

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