The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-data-protection-bill-calls-for-consent-privacy-penalties-to-bring-more-accountability-in-digital-economy-155209/amp">Personal Data Protection Bill</a> was referred to a Joint Committee on Wednesday with the Lok Sabha adopting a motion moved by Electronics and Information Technology Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ravi-shankar-prasad-to-hold-roundtable-discussion-with-ceos-from-electronics-industry-249501">Ravi Shankar Prasad</a>.

Prasad said the "joint committee of the House" will have 20 members from the Lok Sabha and 10 members from the Rajya Sabha and would give its report on the first day of the last week of the next budget session.

Prasad, who had introduced the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019 earlier in the day, had proposed that it should be referred to the select committee of the two Houses amid demands from the opposition members that it should be sent to the Standing Committee on Information Technology headed by Congress member Shashi Tharoor.

As Prasad took the names of Lok Sabha members in the joint committee, Trinamool Congress leader Sudip Bandyopadhyay said that they wanted to replace Sugata Roy with Mahua Moitra.

Bandyopadhyay said that Sugata Roy was handling a lot of works and the party cannot spare him.

As Speaker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hyderabad-veterinary-doctors-rape-murder-rocks-parliament-265692">Om Birla </a>asked the Parliamentary Affairs Minister about his views on the suggestion, Prasad proposed that the name of the Trinamool Congress member may be added later.

He urged Bandyopadhyay to let Roy remain in the committee as he had a vast experience but Bandyopadhyay said it was the party's decision.

"If you ask me, he (Roy) is the best person in parliament. You can't change my party's decision," he said, adding that the name will be given by the party.

Prasad said the joint committee to examine the bill will have 20 members from the Lok Sabha - Meenakshi Lekhi, PP Chaudhary, SS Ahluwalia, Tejasvi Surya, Ajay Bhatt,

Col Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Sanjay Jaiswal, Uday Pratap Singh, Kirit Premjibhai Solanki, Arvind Dharampuri, Heena Gavit, Rajeev Ranjan Singh, Gaurav Gogoi,

Jothimani, Saugata Roy, Kanimozhi, PV Midhun Reddy, Shrikant Eknath Shinde, Bhartruhari Mahtab and Ritesh Pandey.

Congress member Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said that only two members of the party were on the panel and said the party should have more representation.

The Bill seeks to provide for the protection of the individual in relation to personal data and to establish a Data Protection Authority of India.

The Personal Data Protection Bill was referred to a Joint Committee on Wednesday with the Lok Sabha adopting a motion moved by Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad.

The Personal Data Protection Bill was referred to a Joint Committee on Wednesday with the Lok Sabha adopting a motion moved by Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad. Prasad said the "joint committee of the House" will have 20 members from the Lok Sabha and 10 members from the Rajya Sabha and would give its report on the first day of the last week of the next budget session. Prasad, who had introduced the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019 earlier in the day, had proposed that it should be referred to the select committee of the two Houses amid demands from the opposition members that it should be sent to the Standing Committee on Information Technology headed by Congress member Shashi Tharoor. As Prasad took the names of Lok Sabha members in the joint committee, Trinamool Congress leader Sudip Bandyopadhyay said that they wanted to replace Sugata Roy with Mahua Moitra. Bandyopadhyay said that Sugata Roy was handling a lot of works and the party cannot spare him. As Speaker Om Birla asked the Parliamentary Affairs Minister about his views on the suggestion, Prasad proposed that the name of the Trinamool Congress member may be added later. He urged Bandyopadhyay to let Roy remain in the committee as he had a vast experience but Bandyopadhyay said it was the party's decision. "If you ask me, he (Roy) is the best person in parliament. You can't change my party's decision," he said, adding that the name will be given by the party. Prasad said the joint committee to examine the bill will have 20 members from the Lok Sabha - Meenakshi Lekhi, PP Chaudhary, SS Ahluwalia, Tejasvi Surya, Ajay Bhatt, Col Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Sanjay Jaiswal, Uday Pratap Singh, Kirit Premjibhai Solanki, Arvind Dharampuri, Heena Gavit, Rajeev Ranjan Singh, Gaurav Gogoi, Jothimani, Saugata Roy, Kanimozhi, PV Midhun Reddy, Shrikant Eknath Shinde, Bhartruhari Mahtab and Ritesh Pandey. Congress member Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said that only two members of the party were on the panel and said the party should have more representation. The Bill seeks to provide for the protection of the individual in relation to personal data and to establish a Data Protection Authority of India.

Lok Sabha refers Personal Data Protection Bill to Joint Parliamentary Committee

Lok Sabha on Monday voted in favour of the introduction of Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB). The bill received 293 'Ayes' in favour of introduction of the bill against 82 'Noes'.

Lok Sabha on Monday voted in favour of the introduction of Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB). The bill received 293 'Ayes' in favour of introduction of the bill against 82 'Noes'. Earlier Union Home Minister Amit Shah tabled the contentious bill in the Lok Sabha and said that in Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh, Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Christians, Parsis and Jains have been discriminated against and this will give these persecuted people citizenship. The allegation that this bill will take away rights of Muslims is wrong, he added. Lok Sabha: 293 'Ayes' in favour of introduction of #CitizenshipAmendmentBill and 82 'Noes' against the Bill's introduction, in Lok Sabha pic.twitter.com/z1SbYJbvcz — ANI (@ANI) December 9, 2019 × ''If Congress had not done partition on the basis of religion after independence, we would have not needed this Bill. Congress did partition on the basis of religion,'' Shah further said. The Citizenship Amendment Bill was passed by the Lower House of the Parliament earlier this year but lapsed with the term of the previous Lok Sabha. If passed by Parliament, it will amend the Citizenship Act of 1955 introducing exceptional provisions for acquiring citizenship for non-Muslim immigrants from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Lok Sabha votes in favour of introduction of Citizenship Amendment Bill 

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday tabled the contentious Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB) in Lok Sabha. The Citizenship Amendment Bill was passed by the Lower House of the Parliament earlier this year but lapsed with the term of the previous Lok Sabha.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday tabled the contentious Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB) in Lok Sabha. The Citizenship Amendment Bill was passed by the Lower House of the Parliament earlier this year but lapsed with the term of the previous Lok Sabha. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday issued a three-line whip to its members in Lok Sabha asking them to be present in the House from December 9 till 12. Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Lok Sabha, to Opposition on #CitizenshipAmendmentBill2019 : I will answer all questions on the Bill. Tab House se walkout mat karna. https://t.co/x6fZwdN3Li pic.twitter.com/qYi72NonZl — ANI (@ANI) December 9, 2019 × If passed by Parliament, it will amend the Citizenship Act of 1955 introducing exceptional provisions for acquiring citizenship for non-Muslim immigrants from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Citizenship Amendment Bill tabled in Lok Sabha 

The contentious Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB) will be introduced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Lok Sabha on Monday.

The Citizenship Amendment Bill was passed by the Lower House of the Parliament earlier this year but lapsed with the term of the previous Lok Sabha.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday issued a three-line whip to its members in Lok Sabha asking them to be present in the House from December 9 till 12.

On the other hand, the Congress parliamentary strategy group is slated to meet at the residence of party chief Sonia Gandhi today to deliberate the party's stance on the Citizenship Amendment Bill.

If passed by Parliament, it will amend the Citizenship Act of 1955 introducing exceptional provisions for acquiring citizenship for non-Muslim immigrants from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The contentious Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB) will be introduced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Lok Sabha on Monday. The Citizenship Amendment Bill was passed by the Lower House of the Parliament earlier this year but lapsed with the term of the previous Lok Sabha.

The contentious Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB) will be introduced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Lok Sabha on Monday. The Citizenship Amendment Bill was passed by the Lower House of the Parliament earlier this year but lapsed with the term of the previous Lok Sabha. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday issued a three-line whip to its members in Lok Sabha asking them to be present in the House from December 9 till 12. On the other hand, the Congress parliamentary strategy group is slated to meet at the residence of party chief Sonia Gandhi today to deliberate the party's stance on the Citizenship Amendment Bill. If passed by Parliament, it will amend the Citizenship Act of 1955 introducing exceptional provisions for acquiring citizenship for non-Muslim immigrants from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Citizenship Amendment Bill to be introduced in Lok Sabha by Amit Shah on Monday

The Central government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to renew the reservation provided to the marginalised communities like Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in Parliament and state legislatures.

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad will introduce the Constitution (126th Amendment Bill) 2019, in the Lok Sabha on Monday, that provides to further amend Article 334 of the Constitution which proposes to extend the reservation for these marginalised sections for another ten years.

Interestingly, the proposed amendment does away with the reservation provided to the Anglo Indian community in the Lok Sabha and state legislatures.

"Although SCs and STs have made considerable progress in the last 70 years, the reasons which weighed with the constituent assembly in making provisions with regard to the aforesaid reservation of seats have not yet ceased to exist.

Therefore, with a view to retaining the inclusive character as envisioned by the founding fathers of the Constitution, it is proposed to continue the reservation of seats for the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes for another 10 years, that is up to 25 January 2030," the proposed Bill states.

The move was set in motion after a meeting of the BJP`s top brass, attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister and party chief Amit Shah, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi, Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, Leader of House in Rajya Sabha and Social Justice Minister Thawar Chand Gehlot, in Parliament on December 3.

The need for bringing in the Bill was felt as the current reservation provision ends on January 26, 2020, and the government wants to get the approval of Parliament ahead of the deadline.

The move by the Narendra Modi government is significant as the BJP is often portrayed as being anti-reservation. Sources stated that this step is expected to send across a message that the Narendra Modi government is with the marginalised sections of the society.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Central government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to renew the reservation provided to the marginalised communities like Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in Parliament and state legislatures.

The Central government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to renew the reservation provided to the marginalised communities like Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in Parliament and state legislatures. Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad will introduce the Constitution (126th Amendment Bill) 2019, in the Lok Sabha on Monday, that provides to further amend Article 334 of the Constitution which proposes to extend the reservation for these marginalised sections for another ten years. Interestingly, the proposed amendment does away with the reservation provided to the Anglo Indian community in the Lok Sabha and state legislatures. "Although SCs and STs have made considerable progress in the last 70 years, the reasons which weighed with the constituent assembly in making provisions with regard to the aforesaid reservation of seats have not yet ceased to exist. Therefore, with a view to retaining the inclusive character as envisioned by the founding fathers of the Constitution, it is proposed to continue the reservation of seats for the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes for another 10 years, that is up to 25 January 2030," the proposed Bill states. The move was set in motion after a meeting of the BJP`s top brass, attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister and party chief Amit Shah, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi, Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, Leader of House in Rajya Sabha and Social Justice Minister Thawar Chand Gehlot, in Parliament on December 3. The need for bringing in the Bill was felt as the current reservation provision ends on January 26, 2020, and the government wants to get the approval of Parliament ahead of the deadline. The move by the Narendra Modi government is significant as the BJP is often portrayed as being anti-reservation. Sources stated that this step is expected to send across a message that the Narendra Modi government is with the marginalised sections of the society.

Government to introduce Bill to extend reservation for SC/ST in Lok Sabha on Monday

Union Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/north-remembers-smriti-iranis-dig-at-rahul-gandhi-after-amethi-win-221254">Smriti Irani</a> on Friday said that she was 'saddened' with the alleged misbehavior of two Congress MPs in the Lok Sabha after she spoke on an attack on a rape survivor in Uttar Pradesh's Unnao.

Speaking to reporters in the Parliament complex, Irani said: "Today, I had a Congress MP chastising me for, he said, I spoke aggressively. In the House, some male MPs came towards me rolling up their sleeves."

"After that, a youth MP said why did Smriti even speak? I am saddened. If speaking is a crime since I am a BJP member, I want to see in Parliament on Monday how is the opposition going to punish me further for speaking in the interest of women," she said.

The matter of alleged misbehavior was raised by Parliamentary Affairs Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mukhtar-naqvi-and-pralhad-joshi-take-oath-as-minister-222908">Pralhad Joshi</a> after the House met at 1.30 pm following an adjournment earlier. He said that it was wrong to come in front of a woman MP in a 'threatening position.'

"She was expressing her opinion. The behavior is most uncalled for. Call the two members. They should apologise," he said.

BJP MP Sangeeta Kumari Singh Deo said one of the MPs behaved in a threatening way. "He pulled up his sleeve. He came forward," she said.

Meenakshi Lekhi, who was in the Chair, asked Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury to talk to the party MPs regarding the apology and adjourned the House till 2.30 pm.

The House earlier witnessed a clash between Congress and BJP members with both accusing each other of politicising the brutal incident in which the Unnao rape survivor was set ablaze.

Irani accused the opposition parties of being quiet "when the rape was used as a political weapon" in West Bengal panchayat elections.

Union Minister Smriti Irani on Friday said that she was 'saddened' with the alleged misbehavior of two Congress MPs in the Lok Sabha after she spoke on an attack on a rape survivor in Uttar Pradesh's Unnao.

Union Minister Smriti Irani on Friday said that she was 'saddened' with the alleged misbehavior of two Congress MPs in the Lok Sabha after she spoke on an attack on a rape survivor in Uttar Pradesh's Unnao. Speaking to reporters in the Parliament complex, Irani said: "Today, I had a Congress MP chastising me for, he said, I spoke aggressively. In the House, some male MPs came towards me rolling up their sleeves." "After that, a youth MP said why did Smriti even speak? I am saddened. If speaking is a crime since I am a BJP member, I want to see in Parliament on Monday how is the opposition going to punish me further for speaking in the interest of women," she said. The matter of alleged misbehavior was raised by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi after the House met at 1.30 pm following an adjournment earlier. He said that it was wrong to come in front of a woman MP in a 'threatening position.' "She was expressing her opinion. The behavior is most uncalled for. Call the two members. They should apologise," he said. BJP MP Sangeeta Kumari Singh Deo said one of the MPs behaved in a threatening way. "He pulled up his sleeve. He came forward," she said. Meenakshi Lekhi, who was in the Chair, asked Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury to talk to the party MPs regarding the apology and adjourned the House till 2.30 pm. The House earlier witnessed a clash between Congress and BJP members with both accusing each other of politicising the brutal incident in which the Unnao rape survivor was set ablaze. Irani accused the opposition parties of being quiet "when the rape was used as a political weapon" in West Bengal panchayat elections.

I am saddened: Smriti Irani on Congress MP's alleged misbehaviour in Lok Sabha

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday that infrastructure such as roads, railway lines and airfields was being ramped up at a fast pace along the border with China to ensure the security of the country.

He said that perceptional differences between the two countries about the Line of Actual Control (LAC) sometimes lead to transgressions by the armies which are settled through existing mechanisms.

Singh told Lok Sabha that the defence forces were fully alert and capable of dealing with any challenge to the security of the country and there was no need of worry.

He was responding to concerns expressed by Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury during zero hour who said India adopts a tough stance against Pakistan for its inimical acts but was relatively soft towards China.

Singh said border infrastructure was being boosted.

"The infrastructure on India-China border, such as roads, tunnels, airfields and railway lines, is being developed so that the country`s unity and integrity are ensured fully. The work is being done at a fast pace," he said.

Singh said there have been perceptional differences about the LAC for a long time between forces of the two sides due to which some incidents of transgression or confrontation have taken place.

He said the armies patrol areas according to their understanding of the LAC and "sometimes our forces also go (in the area claimed by China)".

The minister, who faced interruptions from Congress members, said the two armies have mechanisms in place to prevent escalation in such situations and these include flag meetings and hotline.

Singh said the government was fully alert to the security needs of the country, conducts reviews from time to time and takes requisite steps.

"There is no need to feel concerned about the country`s security. There is no need to worry about border security of the country," he said.

He said the long-term steps to deal with border issues with China include talks between special representatives of the two countries, joint secretary-level meetings and Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC).&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday that infrastructure such as roads, railway lines and airfields was being ramped up at a fast pace along the border with China to ensure the security of the country.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday that infrastructure such as roads, railway lines and airfields was being ramped up at a fast pace along the border with China to ensure the security of the country. He said that perceptional differences between the two countries about the Line of Actual Control (LAC) sometimes lead to transgressions by the armies which are settled through existing mechanisms. Singh told Lok Sabha that the defence forces were fully alert and capable of dealing with any challenge to the security of the country and there was no need of worry. He was responding to concerns expressed by Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury during zero hour who said India adopts a tough stance against Pakistan for its inimical acts but was relatively soft towards China. Singh said border infrastructure was being boosted. "The infrastructure on India-China border, such as roads, tunnels, airfields and railway lines, is being developed so that the country`s unity and integrity are ensured fully. The work is being done at a fast pace," he said. Singh said there have been perceptional differences about the LAC for a long time between forces of the two sides due to which some incidents of transgression or confrontation have taken place. He said the armies patrol areas according to their understanding of the LAC and "sometimes our forces also go (in the area claimed by China)". The minister, who faced interruptions from Congress members, said the two armies have mechanisms in place to prevent escalation in such situations and these include flag meetings and hotline. Singh said the government was fully alert to the security needs of the country, conducts reviews from time to time and takes requisite steps. "There is no need to feel concerned about the country`s security. There is no need to worry about border security of the country," he said. He said the long-term steps to deal with border issues with China include talks between special representatives of the two countries, joint secretary-level meetings and Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC).

Infrastructure being ramped up at fast pace along China border: Rajnath Singh tells Lok Sabha

The issue of rape and murder of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/telangana-locals-protest-over-rape-murder-of-veterinary-doctor-265398">Hyderabad veterinary doctor</a> was raised in both houses of the Parliament on Monday.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said he has permitted discussion on the matter after Question Hour. In the Rajya Sabha, on the other hand, lawmakers across party lines condemned the gruesome act and called for stricter laws against perpetrators.

The burnt body of the veterinary doctor was found at Shadnagar outskirts in Telangana`s Ranga Reddy district last week.

As per the preliminary probe, the police suspect that the doctor was sexually assaulted before being charred to death.

The police on Friday arrested four persons involved in the alleged rape and murder case of the veterinary doctor.

Earlier today, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/bjp-proves-sceptics-wrong-with-stunning-performance-in-hindi-heartland-221136">Bharatiya Janata Party</a> lawmaker Prabhat Jha gave a Zero Hour Notice in Rajya Sabha over `increasing crime against women-specially the incident in Hyderabad`.

Aam Aadmi Party MP Sanjay Singh gave Suspension of Business Notice in the Upper House under rule 267, over `increasing crime against women and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/telangana-fast-track-court-to-deal-with-vets-rape-case-cm-promises-stringent-punishment-to-culprits-265584">Hyderabad incident</a>`.Trinamool Congress, TMC, Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP), Shiv Sena, Congress have also given an Adjournment Motion Notice in Lok Sabha over "gang rape and killing of girls in Hyderabad".

The issue of rape and murder of a Hyderabad veterinary doctor was raised in both houses of the Parliament on Monday. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said he has permitted discussion on the matter after Question Hour.

The issue of rape and murder of a Hyderabad veterinary doctor was raised in both houses of the Parliament on Monday. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said he has permitted discussion on the matter after Question Hour. In the Rajya Sabha, on the other hand, lawmakers across party lines condemned the gruesome act and called for stricter laws against perpetrators. The burnt body of the veterinary doctor was found at Shadnagar outskirts in Telangana`s Ranga Reddy district last week. As per the preliminary probe, the police suspect that the doctor was sexually assaulted before being charred to death. The police on Friday arrested four persons involved in the alleged rape and murder case of the veterinary doctor. Earlier today, Bharatiya Janata Party lawmaker Prabhat Jha gave a Zero Hour Notice in Rajya Sabha over `increasing crime against women-specially the incident in Hyderabad`. Aam Aadmi Party MP Sanjay Singh gave Suspension of Business Notice in the Upper House under rule 267, over `increasing crime against women and Hyderabad incident`.Trinamool Congress, TMC, Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP), Shiv Sena, Congress have also given an Adjournment Motion Notice in Lok Sabha over "gang rape and killing of girls in Hyderabad".

Hyderabad veterinary doctor's rape, murder rocks Parliament

BJP MP from Bhopal, Pragya Singh Thakur on Friday reiterated in Lok Sabha that she had not called Mahatma Gandhi's assassin Nathuram Godse a "deshbhakt" and expressed apology if someone had been hurt by her remarks.

Pragya, who is known for making controversial remarks, apologised for the second time in Lower House after the opposition members expressed dissatisfaction with her statement made earlier in the day.

"On November 27 during the discussion on SPG bill, I did not call Nathuram Godse 'deshbhakt', did not take his name. Even then if someone has been hurt, I express regret and seek an apology," she said earlier in the day.

However, Thakur had to be checked by Speaker amid interruptions by opposition members after she started speaking.

"I have tolerated many atrocities given by enemies..." she said in the beginning.

The second apology from Thakur came after the meeting of leaders in the House. In her apology in the House earlier, Pragya also raked up of being called terrorist by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.

Gandhi had on November 27 tweeted, "Terrorist Pragya calls terrorist Godse, a patriot. A sad day, in the history of India`s Parliament."

"If any of my remarks in the House have hurt anyone, I express regret for that and apologise. But I also want to say that my words in the House have been twisted and presented wrongly. My remarks had different context which were wrongly presented. The way my words have been twisted, it is condemnable," she said.

"I respect the service done by Mahatma Gandhi for the country. I want to tell the House that a member has publicly called me a terrorist. Despite the conspiracies of the then government against me, no charge has been proved against me. Without charge having been proved, calling me a terrorist is against the law. Calling me terrorist without charges having been proved in an attempt to insult me as a woman, as a "sanyasi", as an MP, is an attack on my dignity," she said.

She alleged the then government had hatched conspiracy to torture her mentally.

The remarks had led to a ruckus in the House with opposition members strongly protesting her remarks. Thakur had made the remarks, which were now expunged when DMK member was speaking on SPG amendment bill in Lok Sabha on Wednesday.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

BJP MP from Bhopal, Pragya Singh Thakur on Friday reiterated in Lok Sabha that she had not called Mahatma Gandhi's assassin Nathuram Godse a "deshbhakt" and expressed apology if someone had been hurt by her remarks.

BJP MP from Bhopal, Pragya Singh Thakur on Friday reiterated in Lok Sabha that she had not called Mahatma Gandhi's assassin Nathuram Godse a "deshbhakt" and expressed apology if someone had been hurt by her remarks. Pragya, who is known for making controversial remarks, apologised for the second time in Lower House after the opposition members expressed dissatisfaction with her statement made earlier in the day. "On November 27 during the discussion on SPG bill, I did not call Nathuram Godse 'deshbhakt', did not take his name. Even then if someone has been hurt, I express regret and seek an apology," she said earlier in the day. However, Thakur had to be checked by Speaker amid interruptions by opposition members after she started speaking. "I have tolerated many atrocities given by enemies..." she said in the beginning. The second apology from Thakur came after the meeting of leaders in the House. In her apology in the House earlier, Pragya also raked up of being called terrorist by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Gandhi had on November 27 tweeted, "Terrorist Pragya calls terrorist Godse, a patriot. A sad day, in the history of India`s Parliament." "If any of my remarks in the House have hurt anyone, I express regret for that and apologise. But I also want to say that my words in the House have been twisted and presented wrongly. My remarks had different context which were wrongly presented. The way my words have been twisted, it is condemnable," she said. "I respect the service done by Mahatma Gandhi for the country. I want to tell the House that a member has publicly called me a terrorist. Despite the conspiracies of the then government against me, no charge has been proved against me. Without charge having been proved, calling me a terrorist is against the law. Calling me terrorist without charges having been proved in an attempt to insult me as a woman, as a "sanyasi", as an MP, is an attack on my dignity," she said. She alleged the then government had hatched conspiracy to torture her mentally. The remarks had led to a ruckus in the House with opposition members strongly protesting her remarks. Thakur had made the remarks, which were now expunged when DMK member was speaking on SPG amendment bill in Lok Sabha on Wednesday.

Pragya Thakur apologies second time in Lok Sabha, reiterates didn't call Godse 'deshbhakt'

The Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed a bill that seeks to amend Special Protection Group (SPG) Act to provide that Special Protection Group will provide security to the Prime Minister and members of his immediate family residing with him at his official residence.

The Special Protection Group (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was passed by a voice vote after the reply from Home Minister Amit Shah.

It amends Special Protection Group Act, 1988. Congress staged a walkout from the House after the minister'&nbsp;reply.

The bill also provides that SPG will give security to former Prime Ministers, and his immediate family members residing with him at the residence allotted to him for five years from the date he ceases to hold the office.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed a bill that seeks to amend Special Protection Group (SPG) Act to provide that Special Protection Group will provide security to the Prime Minister and members of his immediate family residing with him at his official residence.

The Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed a bill that seeks to amend Special Protection Group (SPG) Act to provide that Special Protection Group will provide security to the Prime Minister and members of his immediate family residing with him at his official residence. The Special Protection Group (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was passed by a voice vote after the reply from Home Minister Amit Shah. It amends Special Protection Group Act, 1988. Congress staged a walkout from the House after the minister' reply. The bill also provides that SPG will give security to former Prime Ministers, and his immediate family members residing with him at the residence allotted to him for five years from the date he ceases to hold the office.

Lok Sabha passes bill to amend SPG Act

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-gives-adjournment-motion-notice-in-lok-sabha-for-psus-disinvestment-264798">Lok Sabha</a> on Wednesday created a record as it took up all the questions listed for oral answers during the question hour. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/business-advisory-committee-members-concerned-over-unruly-episode-in-lok-sabha-264557">Speaker Om Birla</a> complimented the members and the ministers.

"I congratulate the House. Due to the cooperation of members and ministers, we could take 20 questions," he said.

The Speaker said he will try that members ask their full question and get the right answer in brief from the ministers.

"We completed the question hour with your cooperation," the Speaker said and hoped that he will continue to get the cooperation of members to run the House smoothly. 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shiv-sena-hits-out-at-bjp-for-making-its-mps-sit-in-opposition-in-parliament-263090">Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi</a> said that the House taking up 20 questions for oral answers was "a record" and thanked the chair and members.

Lok Sabha on Wednesday created a record as it took up all the questions listed for oral answers during the question hour. Speaker Om Birla complimented the members and the ministers.

Lok Sabha on Wednesday created a record as it took up all the questions listed for oral answers during the question hour. Speaker Om Birla complimented the members and the ministers. "I congratulate the House. Due to the cooperation of members and ministers, we could take 20 questions," he said. The Speaker said he will try that members ask their full question and get the right answer in brief from the ministers. "We completed the question hour with your cooperation," the Speaker said and hoped that he will continue to get the cooperation of members to run the House smoothly. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said that the House taking up 20 questions for oral answers was "a record" and thanked the chair and members.

Lok Sabha takes up 20 questions for oral answers during Question Hour, sets record

The unruly episode that took place on the floor of the Lok Sabha figured prominently in the Business Advisory Committee meeting held on Monday, in which leaders from all parties expressed regret over such behaviour and felt that it hurt the dignity of the Speaker.

According to sources, the issue of Congress MPs storming the well of the House was discussed at length during the meeting that lasted for over an hour, in which the leaders said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dont-come-to-well-of-the-house-ls-speaker-warns-opposition-mps-263571">dignity of the House</a> should be maintained.

MPs Adhir Ranjan Choudhury (Congress), Sudip Bandyopadhyay (TMC), TR Balu (DMK), Danish Ali (BSP), Lalan Singh (JD-U) were among those who attended the meeting.

The leaders expressed concern over the incident and said that they will support the Speaker, sources said.

The Lower House of the Parliament, on Monday, was adjourned three times, first till 12 noon, then till 2 pm and later for the day. It was the first time that the 17th Lok Sabha was forced to adjourn.

Congress members TN Prathapan and Hibi Eden were named by Lok Sabha Speaker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-bid-to-encourage-people-lok-sabha-speaker-asks-all-mps-to-shun-single-use-plastic-263837">Om Birla</a> under Rule 373 as they did not heed his repeated calls to remove a big banner they were carrying to protest against the swearing-in of a BJP-led government in Maharashtra.

A panel chaired by the Lok Sabha speaker and comprising of the leaders of all political parties, the Business Advisory Committee discusses and decides the issues to be taken up for discussion in the House.

The unruly episode that took place on the floor of the Lok Sabha figured prominently in the Business Advisory Committee meeting held on Monday, in which leaders from all parties expressed regret over such behaviour and felt that it hurt the dignity of the Speaker.

The unruly episode that took place on the floor of the Lok Sabha figured prominently in the Business Advisory Committee meeting held on Monday, in which leaders from all parties expressed regret over such behaviour and felt that it hurt the dignity of the Speaker. According to sources, the issue of Congress MPs storming the well of the House was discussed at length during the meeting that lasted for over an hour, in which the leaders said that the dignity of the House should be maintained. MPs Adhir Ranjan Choudhury (Congress), Sudip Bandyopadhyay (TMC), TR Balu (DMK), Danish Ali (BSP), Lalan Singh (JD-U) were among those who attended the meeting. The leaders expressed concern over the incident and said that they will support the Speaker, sources said. The Lower House of the Parliament, on Monday, was adjourned three times, first till 12 noon, then till 2 pm and later for the day. It was the first time that the 17th Lok Sabha was forced to adjourn. Congress members TN Prathapan and Hibi Eden were named by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla under Rule 373 as they did not heed his repeated calls to remove a big banner they were carrying to protest against the swearing-in of a BJP-led government in Maharashtra. A panel chaired by the Lok Sabha speaker and comprising of the leaders of all political parties, the Business Advisory Committee discusses and decides the issues to be taken up for discussion in the House.

Business Advisory Committee members concerned over unruly episode in Lok Sabha

The Congress will vehemently raise the issue of electoral bonds in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/petition-in-supreme-court-seeks-probe-into-lok-sabha-election-results-263431">Lok Sabha</a> today for which party is even likely to stage a walk-out if they were not allowed to have a detailed discussion on it, told top-notch sources from the party.

Sources from Congress Parliamentary Strategy meeting told that the party has reached out to the Opposition parties for devising a floor strategy to corner the Narendra Modi-led government over the same.

"We will not let the issue of electoral bonds die down. We will make the government answerable. Reaching out to opposition parties to build a floor strategy against the government, we want a detailed discussion on it," said the source.

"If the government doesn't allow discussion on the issue of electoral bonds, Congress to stage a walkout. Congress will also hold a protest at the Gandhi statue," it said.

The issue will be raised by Congress MP <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news?page=2266">Manish Tewari</a> in the Standing Committee on Finance set to meet at 3 pm today. 
Congress party has given adjournment motion notice in Lok Sabha on Thursday over "lack of transparency in the entire scheme of electoral bonds".

The adjournment motion is an extraordinary procedure which, if admitted, leads to setting aside the normal business of the House for discussing a definite matter of urgent public importance.

Yesterday, Congress leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-delhi-all-party-meeting-begins-ahead-of-parliaments-winter-session-262684">Ghulam Nabi Azad </a>hit out at the BJP government at the Centre over the electoral bond scheme. 
Speaking at a press conference, Azad had said, "To issue electoral bond scheme was a conspiracy.&nbsp;It was based on the premise that the donor who gives money need not disclose his identity. The political party is also not liable to disclose the identity of the donor."

"This was opposed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) which has stated that this scheme will lead to the encouragement of money laundering," Azad had said.

"In this scheme, it is not disclosed who gives fund to a political party. The money could be donated from a fraudster or even a terrorist," the Congress leader said while criticising the electoral bond scheme.

Electoral bonds may be purchased by a person, who is a citizen of India or incorporated or established in India. A person being an individual can buy electoral bonds, either singly or jointly with other individuals.

Only the political parties registered under <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-demands-action-against-parties-boycotting-jk-local-body-polls-168425">Section 29A</a> of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 (43 of 1951) and which secured not less than one per cent of the votes polled in the last general election to the House of the People or the Legislative Assembly of the state shall be eligible to receive the electoral bonds.

The bonds shall be encashed by an eligible political party only through a bank account with the authorised bank.

The Congress will vehemently raise the issue of electoral bonds in Lok Sabha today for which party is even likely to stage a walk-out if they were not allowed to have a detailed discussion on it, told top-notch sources from the party.

The Congress will vehemently raise the issue of electoral bonds in Lok Sabha today for which party is even likely to stage a walk-out if they were not allowed to have a detailed discussion on it, told top-notch sources from the party. Sources from Congress Parliamentary Strategy meeting told that the party has reached out to the Opposition parties for devising a floor strategy to corner the Narendra Modi-led government over the same. "We will not let the issue of electoral bonds die down. We will make the government answerable. Reaching out to opposition parties to build a floor strategy against the government, we want a detailed discussion on it," said the source. "If the government doesn't allow discussion on the issue of electoral bonds, Congress to stage a walkout. Congress will also hold a protest at the Gandhi statue," it said. The issue will be raised by Congress MP Manish Tewari in the Standing Committee on Finance set to meet at 3 pm today. Congress party has given adjournment motion notice in Lok Sabha on Thursday over "lack of transparency in the entire scheme of electoral bonds". The adjournment motion is an extraordinary procedure which, if admitted, leads to setting aside the normal business of the House for discussing a definite matter of urgent public importance. Yesterday, Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad hit out at the BJP government at the Centre over the electoral bond scheme. Speaking at a press conference, Azad had said, "To issue electoral bond scheme was a conspiracy. It was based on the premise that the donor who gives money need not disclose his identity. The political party is also not liable to disclose the identity of the donor." "This was opposed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) which has stated that this scheme will lead to the encouragement of money laundering," Azad had said. "In this scheme, it is not disclosed who gives fund to a political party. The money could be donated from a fraudster or even a terrorist," the Congress leader said while criticising the electoral bond scheme. Electoral bonds may be purchased by a person, who is a citizen of India or incorporated or established in India. A person being an individual can buy electoral bonds, either singly or jointly with other individuals. Only the political parties registered under Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 (43 of 1951) and which secured not less than one per cent of the votes polled in the last general election to the House of the People or the Legislative Assembly of the state shall be eligible to receive the electoral bonds. The bonds shall be encashed by an eligible political party only through a bank account with the authorised bank.

Congress to stage walk-out from Lok Sabha if not allowed to discuss electoral bonds

On the fourth day of Parliament's winter session, opposition members raised slogans in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/petition-in-supreme-court-seeks-probe-into-lok-sabha-election-results-263431">Lok Sabha</a> during Question Hour, prompting <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-gives-suspension-of-business-notice-over-downgrade-in-security-cover-263294">Speaker Om Birla</a> to intervene saying that the dignity of the House should be maintained.

"It is our duty to maintain the dignity of the House. Please do not come to the well of the house. I have always given all a chance for debate and discussion," Birla told the protesting members who came near the Speaker's podium soon after the start of day's session and were raising slogans.

On Tuesday, Birla had warned members that he will be forced to take action if they try to address the chair while protesting from the well of the House.

The Speaker said there might have been instances earlier of members speaking to the Chair from the well of the House.

"If it happens after today, I will be forced to take action," he said. 
 
Ahead of the winter session, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-narendra-modi-to-address-conclave-of-accountants-in-delhi-today-263523">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> had on Monday said that the session is an important one as it is the last in this year and all lawmakers should contribute to enriching the discussions.

Talking about the need to have a "frank discussion" in the Parliament, the Prime Minister said, "It is important that there should be quality debates, there should be dialogue and discussions and everyone should contribute to enriching discussions in the Parliament.

On the fourth day of Parliament's winter session, opposition members raised slogans in the Lok Sabha during Question Hour, prompting Speaker Om Birla to intervene saying that the dignity of the House should be maintained.

On the fourth day of Parliament's winter session, opposition members raised slogans in the Lok Sabha during Question Hour, prompting Speaker Om Birla to intervene saying that the dignity of the House should be maintained. "It is our duty to maintain the dignity of the House. Please do not come to the well of the house. I have always given all a chance for debate and discussion," Birla told the protesting members who came near the Speaker's podium soon after the start of day's session and were raising slogans. On Tuesday, Birla had warned members that he will be forced to take action if they try to address the chair while protesting from the well of the House. The Speaker said there might have been instances earlier of members speaking to the Chair from the well of the House. "If it happens after today, I will be forced to take action," he said. Ahead of the winter session, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Monday said that the session is an important one as it is the last in this year and all lawmakers should contribute to enriching the discussions. Talking about the need to have a "frank discussion" in the Parliament, the Prime Minister said, "It is important that there should be quality debates, there should be dialogue and discussions and everyone should contribute to enriching discussions in the Parliament.

Maintain dignity of the house: Lok Sabha Speaker warns opposition MPs

As incessant rains crippled normal life in the district, nearly 30,000 people were preventively evacuated to relief camps in Wayanad.

Heavy downpour coupled with flooding and frequent landslides have wreaked havoc in the southern state.

"We have done preventive evacuation from most of the vulnerable locations, nearly 30,000 people are now in relief camps," said AR Ajayakumar, District Collector Wayanad.

"The situation is totally under control at present, there is no need to panic. Apart from a major landslide reported in Puthumala near Meppadi, no other such major incident has been reported," he said.

Congress leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-floods-rahul-gandhi-to-visit-wayanad-tomorrow-241999">Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to visit Wayanad</a>, his Lok Sabha constituency, on Sunday.

Around 28 people have died and 27 others have sustained injuries following incessant rains and overflowing of rivers in several parts of Kerala, said the state government on Friday.

The rescue operation teams were seen evacuating senior citizens, women, children, and others by carrying them either on their shoulders or palanquins through the debris of landslides and floodwater.

As many as 24 relief camps have started functioning in the state. As many as eight Engineer Task Force (ETF) teams have been deployed in various districts like Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Malappuram, Wayanad, Kannur and Kozhikode.

As incessant rains crippled normal life in the district, nearly 30,000 people were preventively evacuated to relief camps in Wayanad. Heavy downpour coupled with flooding and frequent landslides have wreaked havoc in the southern state.

As incessant rains crippled normal life in the district, nearly 30,000 people were preventively evacuated to relief camps in Wayanad. Heavy downpour coupled with flooding and frequent landslides have wreaked havoc in the southern state. "We have done preventive evacuation from most of the vulnerable locations, nearly 30,000 people are now in relief camps," said AR Ajayakumar, District Collector Wayanad. "The situation is totally under control at present, there is no need to panic. Apart from a major landslide reported in Puthumala near Meppadi, no other such major incident has been reported," he said. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to visit Wayanad, his Lok Sabha constituency, on Sunday. Around 28 people have died and 27 others have sustained injuries following incessant rains and overflowing of rivers in several parts of Kerala, said the state government on Friday. The rescue operation teams were seen evacuating senior citizens, women, children, and others by carrying them either on their shoulders or palanquins through the debris of landslides and floodwater. As many as 24 relief camps have started functioning in the state. As many as eight Engineer Task Force (ETF) teams have been deployed in various districts like Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Malappuram, Wayanad, Kannur and Kozhikode.

Kerala: Around 30,000 evacuated to relief camps in Wayanad

Actor and Gurdaspur MP Sunny Deol failed to impress with his attendance record in the first session of the 17th Lok Sabha by not attending the house for 28 days.

According to Lok Sabha's attendance record, Deol attended parliament for five continuous days soon after the resumption of the monsoon session but then gave it a miss for the next whole week.

In total, the Gurdaspur lawmaker attended nine sittings of Parliament while giving a miss to Lok Sabha for 28 days out of a total of 37 days that the house functioned, including the extended session.

In his debut election, Deol had defeated sitting MP and Congress candidate Sunil Jakhar by 82,459 votes from Gurdaspur Lok Sabha seat in Punjab.

He had joined the BJP on April 23, this year.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, BJP had won this seat after fielding actor Vinod Khanna.

After Khanna's demise in April 2017 by-polls were held and the seat went to Congress'&nbsp;Jakhar.

Deol is the third member of his family to join politics. Earlier in 2004, his father Dharmendra had also won the Bikaner Lok Sabha constituency for the BJP and his wife Hema Malini won Uttar Pradesh's Mathura seat for the party for a second consecutive term in the national elections.&nbsp;

Actor and Gurdaspur MP Sunny Deol failed to impress with his attendance record in the first session of the 17th Lok Sabha by not attending the house for 28 days.

Actor and Gurdaspur MP Sunny Deol failed to impress with his attendance record in the first session of the 17th Lok Sabha by not attending the house for 28 days. According to Lok Sabha's attendance record, Deol attended parliament for five continuous days soon after the resumption of the monsoon session but then gave it a miss for the next whole week. In total, the Gurdaspur lawmaker attended nine sittings of Parliament while giving a miss to Lok Sabha for 28 days out of a total of 37 days that the house functioned, including the extended session. In his debut election, Deol had defeated sitting MP and Congress candidate Sunil Jakhar by 82,459 votes from Gurdaspur Lok Sabha seat in Punjab. He had joined the BJP on April 23, this year. In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, BJP had won this seat after fielding actor Vinod Khanna. After Khanna's demise in April 2017 by-polls were held and the seat went to Congress' Jakhar. Deol is the third member of his family to join politics. Earlier in 2004, his father Dharmendra had also won the Bikaner Lok Sabha constituency for the BJP and his wife Hema Malini won Uttar Pradesh's Mathura seat for the party for a second consecutive term in the national elections.

Sunny Deol Lok Sabha attendance unimpressive, skipped 28 days of Parliament

The Madhya Pradesh High Court on Thursday issued a notice to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pragya-thakur-completes-taking-oath-in-three-attempts-in-lok-sabha-228122">BJP Bhopal MP Pragya Singh Thakur</a> on a petition challenging her election to the Lok Sabha because she allegedly adopted "corrupt practices" and whipped up communal passions during the campaign.

The petition was filed by journalist Rakesh Dixit, who is a registered voter in Bhopal.&nbsp;

According to litigant`s Advocate Arvind Shrivastava, a notice has been served to 2008 Malegaon blast accused Thakur by Justice Vishal Dhagat on Thursday and he has sought her response within four weeks.

Thakur had violated section 123 (3) (seeking votes based on religion) of the Representation of the People Act during the Lok Sabha poll campaign, the petition claimed.

"She also made false statements against her rival and Congress candidate Digvijay Singh and gave defamatory statements about other candidates. She even said that he is proud of the fact that she was among the ones who demolished Babri Masjid and she is proud of it, she even said that she was sent by God to save Hindus, she asked people to not repeat the mistake which they did before by voting Singh," the advocate said.&nbsp;

"She even gave controversial remarks on Hemant Karkare and Nathu Ram Godse," he said. Thakur won from Bhopal by defeating Singh by over 3 lakh votes.&nbsp;

The Madhya Pradesh High Court on Thursday issued a notice to BJP Bhopal MP Pragya Singh Thakur on a petition challenging her election to the Lok Sabha because she allegedly adopted "corrupt practices" and whipped up communal passions during the campaign.

The Madhya Pradesh High Court on Thursday issued a notice to BJP Bhopal MP Pragya Singh Thakur on a petition challenging her election to the Lok Sabha because she allegedly adopted "corrupt practices" and whipped up communal passions during the campaign. The petition was filed by journalist Rakesh Dixit, who is a registered voter in Bhopal. According to litigant`s Advocate Arvind Shrivastava, a notice has been served to 2008 Malegaon blast accused Thakur by Justice Vishal Dhagat on Thursday and he has sought her response within four weeks. Thakur had violated section 123 (3) (seeking votes based on religion) of the Representation of the People Act during the Lok Sabha poll campaign, the petition claimed. "She also made false statements against her rival and Congress candidate Digvijay Singh and gave defamatory statements about other candidates. She even said that he is proud of the fact that she was among the ones who demolished Babri Masjid and she is proud of it, she even said that she was sent by God to save Hindus, she asked people to not repeat the mistake which they did before by voting Singh," the advocate said. "She even gave controversial remarks on Hemant Karkare and Nathu Ram Godse," he said. Thakur won from Bhopal by defeating Singh by over 3 lakh votes.

High Court serves notice to Pragya Thakur on petition challenging her election, seeks reply in 4 days

The Parliament on Thursday passed a bill that provides for stringent punishment for sexual crimes against children and the death penalty in cases of aggravated sexual assault.

The Lok Sabha passed the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2019 on Thursday. The bill seeks to amend Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012. It had been passed by Rajya Sabha earlier.

In her reply to the debate on the bill, Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani said 6.20 lakh sexual offenders were listed in the national database and they were being tracked by investigative agencies. She also expressed concern that the number of juvenile perpetrators of crimes is increasing.

Irani said the government was working to create 1023 fast track courts under the Nirbhaya fund to provide quick justice in cases of crimes against women.

"Eighteen states have come on board to see that these courts are established between 2019-20 and 1920-21," she said.

The minister said that about Rs 75 lakh would be spent in creating infrastructure for each court.

The minister expressed concern over the "slow rate" of conviction in POCSO cases and said that in about 36,000 cases under the Act, over 36,000 persons have been arrested.

Referring to a point made by a member about consensual sex, Irani said the suggestion was made before the standing committee which had said that there should be no exemption in cases involving children below 18 years of age.

She said steps had been taken for witness protection and states urged to create witness protection fund.

Asked about the suggestion that death penalty should not be given if the accused is a juvenile, she said in such cases the matter is decided by the court in consultation with Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) to determine if the person is of an adult mind.

The minister said various ministries were working cohesively on the issue of child protection under the Modi government and there has been a suggestion to track progress in POCSO cases.

Irani said children in CBSE-affiliated schools were being given awareness about "good touch and bad touch" and teachers were also being trained.

The minister suggested MPs to take up POCSO cases in district-level meetings.

She said there were 680 child welfare committees of which 444 were working to full strength while 509 of 675 JJBs were working to full strength.

Noting that training was being imparted for collection of forensic evidence, the minister suggested that the approved list of counsellors should be published.

Earlier, moving the bill for passage in the House, Irani had said 60 per cent of people using the internet were of ages less than 24, and there has been an instance of 5,000 people subscribing to an online porn channel which had the video of a crime.

She said the bill will protect the interest of vulnerable children in times of distress and ensure their safety and dignity.

Referring to a case of drugs being administered to children to bring about early sexual maturity, Irani said the bill seeks to award strong punishment in such cases.

Members cutting across party lines demanded strong punishment in crimes against children.

The Bill provides for levying fines and imprisonment to curb child pornography.

The strong penal provisions are expected to act as a deterrent to curb child sex abuse.

The Parliament on Thursday passed a bill that provides for stringent punishment for sexual crimes against children and the death penalty in cases of aggravated sexual assault.

The Parliament on Thursday passed a bill that provides for stringent punishment for sexual crimes against children and the death penalty in cases of aggravated sexual assault. The Lok Sabha passed the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2019 on Thursday. The bill seeks to amend Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012. It had been passed by Rajya Sabha earlier. In her reply to the debate on the bill, Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani said 6.20 lakh sexual offenders were listed in the national database and they were being tracked by investigative agencies. She also expressed concern that the number of juvenile perpetrators of crimes is increasing. Irani said the government was working to create 1023 fast track courts under the Nirbhaya fund to provide quick justice in cases of crimes against women. "Eighteen states have come on board to see that these courts are established between 2019-20 and 1920-21," she said. The minister said that about Rs 75 lakh would be spent in creating infrastructure for each court. The minister expressed concern over the "slow rate" of conviction in POCSO cases and said that in about 36,000 cases under the Act, over 36,000 persons have been arrested. Referring to a point made by a member about consensual sex, Irani said the suggestion was made before the standing committee which had said that there should be no exemption in cases involving children below 18 years of age. She said steps had been taken for witness protection and states urged to create witness protection fund. Asked about the suggestion that death penalty should not be given if the accused is a juvenile, she said in such cases the matter is decided by the court in consultation with Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) to determine if the person is of an adult mind. The minister said various ministries were working cohesively on the issue of child protection under the Modi government and there has been a suggestion to track progress in POCSO cases. Irani said children in CBSE-affiliated schools were being given awareness about "good touch and bad touch" and teachers were also being trained. The minister suggested MPs to take up POCSO cases in district-level meetings. She said there were 680 child welfare committees of which 444 were working to full strength while 509 of 675 JJBs were working to full strength. Noting that training was being imparted for collection of forensic evidence, the minister suggested that the approved list of counsellors should be published. Earlier, moving the bill for passage in the House, Irani had said 60 per cent of people using the internet were of ages less than 24, and there has been an instance of 5,000 people subscribing to an online porn channel which had the video of a crime. She said the bill will protect the interest of vulnerable children in times of distress and ensure their safety and dignity. Referring to a case of drugs being administered to children to bring about early sexual maturity, Irani said the bill seeks to award strong punishment in such cases. Members cutting across party lines demanded strong punishment in crimes against children. The Bill provides for levying fines and imprisonment to curb child pornography. The strong penal provisions are expected to act as a deterrent to curb child sex abuse.

Parliament passes POCSO (Amendment) Bill, proposed law introduces possibility of death penalty

The Lok Sabha on Thursday took up discussion on a bill that makes punishment more stringent for <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/three-year-old-girl-gangraped-beheaded-in-jharkhand-239917&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiAh7ja4eHjAhVB63MBHYyFDzoQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw221sCmomyMQhQ7gk82NorL">sexual crimes</a> against children and provides for the death penalty in cases of aggravated sexual assault.

The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was moved for consideration and passage by Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani.&nbsp;

She said the Bill provides for levying fines and imprisonment to curb child pornography.

The minister said that 60 per cent of people using the internet were of ages less than 24, and there has been an instance of 5,000 people subscribing to an online porn channel which had the video of a crime.

She said the bill will protect the interest of vulnerable children in times of distress and ensure their safety and dignity.

Referring to a case of drugs being administered to children to bring about early sexual maturity, she said the bill seeks to award strong punishment in such cases.

The bill, which has been passed by Rajya Sabha, seeks to amend Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.

The strong penal provisions are expected to act as a deterrent to curb child sex abuse.

The Lok Sabha on Thursday took up discussion on a bill that makes punishment more stringent for sexual crimes against children and provides for the death penalty in cases of aggravated sexual assault.

The Lok Sabha on Thursday took up discussion on a bill that makes punishment more stringent for sexual crimes against children and provides for the death penalty in cases of aggravated sexual assault. The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was moved for consideration and passage by Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani. She said the Bill provides for levying fines and imprisonment to curb child pornography. The minister said that 60 per cent of people using the internet were of ages less than 24, and there has been an instance of 5,000 people subscribing to an online porn channel which had the video of a crime. She said the bill will protect the interest of vulnerable children in times of distress and ensure their safety and dignity. Referring to a case of drugs being administered to children to bring about early sexual maturity, she said the bill seeks to award strong punishment in such cases. The bill, which has been passed by Rajya Sabha, seeks to amend Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012. The strong penal provisions are expected to act as a deterrent to curb child sex abuse.

Bill to provide death penalty for child abuse in Lok Sabha

BJP will hold an intense training programme of&nbsp;two days for all its Members of Parliament in Delhi to train and sensitise them on the issues related to parliamentary practice, ideology and party.&nbsp;

The importance of this meeting lies in the fact that the training session would give clarity to MPs on crucial ideological issues which are important to BJP. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will also attend Abhyas Varg on both days and is expected to speak at the event as well.

Sources also said that speakers from outside may also address the party MPs. Strict instructions have been sent from the organization that it should not be given a miss at all.&nbsp;

The programme is expected to start at 9 am and would finish at 9 pm.&nbsp;MPs will have breakfast, lunch and dinner at the venue of the training session itself.&nbsp;

Though details of the programme have not been officially released by the party the exercise is to ensure that certain basics of being a Member of Parliament, minister and organizational position holder are made clear to everyone in the party.

This is in contrast to all the major Opposition parties who hold a great public commitment to a certain ideology in public domain do very little to train their MPs when it comes to ideological commitment and responsibility towards parliament and the party.&nbsp;

In this case, BJP has charted a different course and has continued with a vigorous training programme for its elected representatives. Abhyas Varg will be organized in the Parliament for the BJP MPs.

BJP will hold an intense training programme of two days for all its Members of Parliament in Delhi to train and sensitise them on the issues related to parliamentary practice, ideology and party.

BJP will hold an intense training programme of two days for all its Members of Parliament in Delhi to train and sensitise them on the issues related to parliamentary practice, ideology and party. The importance of this meeting lies in the fact that the training session would give clarity to MPs on crucial ideological issues which are important to BJP. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will also attend Abhyas Varg on both days and is expected to speak at the event as well. Sources also said that speakers from outside may also address the party MPs. Strict instructions have been sent from the organization that it should not be given a miss at all. The programme is expected to start at 9 am and would finish at 9 pm. MPs will have breakfast, lunch and dinner at the venue of the training session itself. Though details of the programme have not been officially released by the party the exercise is to ensure that certain basics of being a Member of Parliament, minister and organizational position holder are made clear to everyone in the party. This is in contrast to all the major Opposition parties who hold a great public commitment to a certain ideology in public domain do very little to train their MPs when it comes to ideological commitment and responsibility towards parliament and the party. In this case, BJP has charted a different course and has continued with a vigorous training programme for its elected representatives. Abhyas Varg will be organized in the Parliament for the BJP MPs.

Now a training camp for lawmakers: BJP to conduct 'Abhyaas Varg' for its MPs

The issue of leadership crisis is likely to come up for discussion prominently among other things at the Congress` general secretaries meeting at the party headquarters here on Wednesday.

According to sources, the meeting will also chalk out a plan to celebrate the 75th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-party-is-not-orphaned-kc-venugopal-239254">Congress general secretary in-charge (organisation) KC Venugopal</a> had earlier instructed Pardesh Congress Committees (PCCs) to celebrate Gandhi`s anniversary from the state to block level.

It is going to be the first meeting of party general secretaries after Congress president Rahul Gandhi offered to step down from his post at the CWC meeting on May 25, taking moral responsibility for the party`s drubbing in the 17th Lok Sabha elections.

The issue of leadership crisis is likely to come up for discussion prominently among other things at the Congress` general secretaries meeting at the party headquarters here on Wednesday.

The issue of leadership crisis is likely to come up for discussion prominently among other things at the Congress` general secretaries meeting at the party headquarters here on Wednesday. According to sources, the meeting will also chalk out a plan to celebrate the 75th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. Congress general secretary in-charge (organisation) KC Venugopal had earlier instructed Pardesh Congress Committees (PCCs) to celebrate Gandhi`s anniversary from the state to block level. It is going to be the first meeting of party general secretaries after Congress president Rahul Gandhi offered to step down from his post at the CWC meeting on May 25, taking moral responsibility for the party`s drubbing in the 17th Lok Sabha elections.

Congress general secretaries meeting today likely to take up leadership issue

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-passes-triple-talaq-bill-congress-stages-walkout-238448">Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla</a> on Thursday rejected a demand by Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy to adjourn the House over remarks made by Samajwadi Party member Azam Khan, asserting that there will be no forced adjournments in the lower house of Parliament.

The Speaker made the remarks after Reddy said that the country had witnessed Azam Khan's remarks and urged the Speaker to go inside (his chamber), scrutinise the record and then return to the House and listen to its members.

"Honourable member, please listen, the House is not going to be adjourned. It will be the history of this Lok Sabha that the House is not to be adjourned. Is it alright," he said.

Following this, the Speaker asked Samajwadi Party member Akhilesh Yadav to speak.

Earlier, when the bill to repeal obsolete laws was being introduced in the House the Speaker had agreed with Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee that new laws should be brought to replace British-era laws.

"I agree with you. The House should try that the British era laws are made into laws in a new form," he said.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Thursday rejected a demand by Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy to adjourn the House over remarks made by Samajwadi Party member Azam Khan, asserting that there will be no forced adjournments in the lower house of Parliament.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Thursday rejected a demand by Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy to adjourn the House over remarks made by Samajwadi Party member Azam Khan, asserting that there will be no forced adjournments in the lower house of Parliament. The Speaker made the remarks after Reddy said that the country had witnessed Azam Khan's remarks and urged the Speaker to go inside (his chamber), scrutinise the record and then return to the House and listen to its members. "Honourable member, please listen, the House is not going to be adjourned. It will be the history of this Lok Sabha that the House is not to be adjourned. Is it alright," he said. Following this, the Speaker asked Samajwadi Party member Akhilesh Yadav to speak. Earlier, when the bill to repeal obsolete laws was being introduced in the House the Speaker had agreed with Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee that new laws should be brought to replace British-era laws. "I agree with you. The House should try that the British era laws are made into laws in a new form," he said.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla rejects minister's demand, says there will be no adjournments

Lok Sabha on Friday saw an uproar when MPs demanded exemplary action against Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan over his sexist remarks directed at BJP MP Rama Devi.

The remarks were later expunged as Rama Devi asked Khan to apologise.

Rama Devi said Azam Khan, being a repeat offender, should be dismissed by the Lok Sabha Speaker. "He has never respected women, we all know what he had said about Jaya Prada. He has no right to stay in the Lok Sabha, I will request the Speaker to dismiss him. Azam Khan must apologise," Rama Devi said.

Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani said no one should be allowed to misbehave with a woman and get away with it by just dramatizing it. "The entire nation watched yesterday what happened. This House passed the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Bill. I appeal to all to speak in one voice- You cannot misbehave with a woman and get away with it by just dramatising it," she said.

"Let us not reduce this to a problem of just women. This is a blot on all legislators including men. This is not a House where men come in and 'Kisi aurat ki aankhon mein jhanka jaye'," she added.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also condemned the remarks. "It is very encouraging to see everyone stand up and speak in once voice condemning what happened yesterday. We look towards you (LS Speaker) for exemplary action against him," she said. 
 
TMC MP Mimi Chakraborty said that all women want Speaker to take action against Azam Khan.

"Nobody can stand in the Parliament and tell a woman "look into my eyes and talk." Speaker sir, all women here are expecting something big from you on this," she said.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said he will call a meeting of leaders of all parties and then take a decision on this issue.

Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Akhilesh Yadav defended his remarks. "I don't think any unparliamentary words were used yesterday. It was the BJP MPs who have used unparliamentary words and if they are willing to take their words back, I am ready to take my words back too if I have used any," said Akhilesh.

On Thursday, Azam Khan stoked controversy in the Lok Sabha with his objectionable remarks against BJP member Rama Devi, who was presiding over the House. He later tried to downplay the remarks, saying she was like a sister to him.

Azam Khan did not apologise and said he will resign if he had said anything unparliamentary. He also staged a walkout along with his party chief Akhilesh Yadav. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha on Friday saw an uproar when MPs demanded exemplary action against Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan over his sexist remarks directed at BJP MP Rama Devi.

Lok Sabha on Friday saw an uproar when MPs demanded exemplary action against Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan over his sexist remarks directed at BJP MP Rama Devi. The remarks were later expunged as Rama Devi asked Khan to apologise. Rama Devi said Azam Khan, being a repeat offender, should be dismissed by the Lok Sabha Speaker. "He has never respected women, we all know what he had said about Jaya Prada. He has no right to stay in the Lok Sabha, I will request the Speaker to dismiss him. Azam Khan must apologise," Rama Devi said. Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani said no one should be allowed to misbehave with a woman and get away with it by just dramatizing it. "The entire nation watched yesterday what happened. This House passed the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Bill. I appeal to all to speak in one voice- You cannot misbehave with a woman and get away with it by just dramatising it," she said. "Let us not reduce this to a problem of just women. This is a blot on all legislators including men. This is not a House where men come in and 'Kisi aurat ki aankhon mein jhanka jaye'," she added. Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also condemned the remarks. "It is very encouraging to see everyone stand up and speak in once voice condemning what happened yesterday. We look towards you (LS Speaker) for exemplary action against him," she said. TMC MP Mimi Chakraborty said that all women want Speaker to take action against Azam Khan. "Nobody can stand in the Parliament and tell a woman "look into my eyes and talk." Speaker sir, all women here are expecting something big from you on this," she said. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said he will call a meeting of leaders of all parties and then take a decision on this issue. Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Akhilesh Yadav defended his remarks. "I don't think any unparliamentary words were used yesterday. It was the BJP MPs who have used unparliamentary words and if they are willing to take their words back, I am ready to take my words back too if I have used any," said Akhilesh. On Thursday, Azam Khan stoked controversy in the Lok Sabha with his objectionable remarks against BJP member Rama Devi, who was presiding over the House. He later tried to downplay the remarks, saying she was like a sister to him. Azam Khan did not apologise and said he will resign if he had said anything unparliamentary. He also staged a walkout along with his party chief Akhilesh Yadav. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha members demand strict action against Azam Khan over sexist remarks directed at BJP MP Rama Devi

The government informed the Lok Sabha on Tuesday that a total of Rs 1138.48 crore has been spent in fencing the International Border between India and Bangladesh during the last five years, reported news agency ANI.&nbsp;

The total length of the International Border is 4096.70 km and fencing has been completed for 2803 km so far, the Lok Sabha was informed.

The probable date of completion is December 2020, the report added.&nbsp;

The aforementioned information was given by the Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai in a written reply to a question in the Lower House of Parliament.

"The schemes for creation of border infrastructure works, on Indo-Bangladesh Border, like fence, road, floodlight and Border Out-Posts (BOPs) are in progress. Border guarding forces conduct regular patrolling, lay nakas and establish observation posts and carry out anti tunnelling exercise to stop illegal infiltration," Rai said.

"However, illegal migrants are able to enter in a clandestine and surreptitious manner, mainly due to difficult riverine terrain in parts of the international border with Bangladesh which are not amenable to physical fencing," he stated.

Between 2014 and 2019, the number of infiltrators apprehended in West Bengal reduced to 379 from 2,260.&nbsp;

In Assam, the numbers came down from 101 to 94 while in Meghalaya, it decreased from 64 to 11.&nbsp;

In Mizoram, the number of infiltrators apprehended has been reduced to seven from eight and in Tripura, the numbers lowered to 101 to 94.&nbsp;

The government informed the Lok Sabha on Tuesday that a total of Rs 1138.48 crore has been spent in fencing the International Border between India and Bangladesh during the last five years, reported news agency ANI.

The government informed the Lok Sabha on Tuesday that a total of Rs 1138.48 crore has been spent in fencing the International Border between India and Bangladesh during the last five years, reported news agency ANI. The total length of the International Border is 4096.70 km and fencing has been completed for 2803 km so far, the Lok Sabha was informed. The probable date of completion is December 2020, the report added. The aforementioned information was given by the Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai in a written reply to a question in the Lower House of Parliament. "The schemes for creation of border infrastructure works, on Indo-Bangladesh Border, like fence, road, floodlight and Border Out-Posts (BOPs) are in progress. Border guarding forces conduct regular patrolling, lay nakas and establish observation posts and carry out anti tunnelling exercise to stop illegal infiltration," Rai said. "However, illegal migrants are able to enter in a clandestine and surreptitious manner, mainly due to difficult riverine terrain in parts of the international border with Bangladesh which are not amenable to physical fencing," he stated. Between 2014 and 2019, the number of infiltrators apprehended in West Bengal reduced to 379 from 2,260. In Assam, the numbers came down from 101 to 94 while in Meghalaya, it decreased from 64 to 11. In Mizoram, the number of infiltrators apprehended has been reduced to seven from eight and in Tripura, the numbers lowered to 101 to 94.

Over Rs 1100 crore spent on border fencing on Indo-Bangladesh Border: Govt to Lok Sabha 

The ongoing Monsoon session of the Parliament could be extended for 10 days, Home Minister Amit Shah informed lawmakers during the BJP`s Parliamentary party meeting on Tuesday. 
 
The meeting was held at the Library Building, ahead of the day's proceedings. Apart from the BJP president, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Prahlad Joshi also told MPs about the likely extension of the session. 
 
Among those in attendance were Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, to name a few. After the previous meeting held last week, Joshi had said the Prime Minister reiterated that attendance is compulsory in the House and there is no exception to this. He had also asked lawmakers to ensure that the government schemes reach people. 
 
"There are complaints that ministers remain absent during their roster duties. Prime Minister asked for their names by the evening and said that serious cognizance will be taken," a senior BJP parliamentarian, who was present in the meeting, had told ANI on the condition of anonymity.

The ongoing Monsoon session of the Parliament could be extended for 10 days, Home Minister Amit Shah informed lawmakers during the BJP`s Parliamentary party meeting on Tuesday.

The ongoing Monsoon session of the Parliament could be extended for 10 days, Home Minister Amit Shah informed lawmakers during the BJP`s Parliamentary party meeting on Tuesday. The meeting was held at the Library Building, ahead of the day's proceedings. Apart from the BJP president, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Prahlad Joshi also told MPs about the likely extension of the session. Among those in attendance were Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, to name a few. After the previous meeting held last week, Joshi had said the Prime Minister reiterated that attendance is compulsory in the House and there is no exception to this. He had also asked lawmakers to ensure that the government schemes reach people. "There are complaints that ministers remain absent during their roster duties. Prime Minister asked for their names by the evening and said that serious cognizance will be taken," a senior BJP parliamentarian, who was present in the meeting, had told ANI on the condition of anonymity.

Monsoon Session of Parliament may be extended for 10 days, Amit Shah informs party MPs

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/court-summons-arvind-kejriwal-manish-sisodia-in-defamation-suit-filed-by-bjps-vijender-gupta-234089">Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal</a> on Monday said that the decision to amend the Right to Information (RTI) Act is not a correct move as it will end the independence of Central and State Information Commissions.

"Decision to amend the RTI Act is a bad move. It will end the independence of Central &amp; States Information Commissions, which will be bad for RTI," Kejriwal tweeted.&nbsp;

Earlier, the government on July 19 introduced the Right to Information (Amendment) Bill, 2019 in the Lok Sabha which seeks to give the central government power to fix the tenure and salaries of information commissioners.

Opposition parties staged a walkout protesting against its introduction. During the voting on the introduction of the amended Bill, 224 members voted in favour while nine in against.

Several opposition members stated that the amendments will dilute the provisions of the original Bill.

However, Speaker Om Birla said that objections should be about the introduction of the Bill and its merits can be discussed during the discussion.

Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Jitendra Singh, rejected allegations of the Opposition and said that nobody can accuse the government of weakening the architecture concerning the Right to Information."A portal for the purpose was created during our government," he said.&nbsp;

Singh accused the erstwhile UPA government of bringing the law in a hurry and leaving loopholes and said that the bill would allow the government to frame rules.

Singh said that the government is open to suggestions from opposition members when the Bill is discussed.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said that the decision to amend the Right to Information (RTI) Act is not a correct move as it will end the independence of Central and State Information Commissions.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said that the decision to amend the Right to Information (RTI) Act is not a correct move as it will end the independence of Central and State Information Commissions. "Decision to amend the RTI Act is a bad move. It will end the independence of Central & States Information Commissions, which will be bad for RTI," Kejriwal tweeted. Earlier, the government on July 19 introduced the Right to Information (Amendment) Bill, 2019 in the Lok Sabha which seeks to give the central government power to fix the tenure and salaries of information commissioners. Opposition parties staged a walkout protesting against its introduction. During the voting on the introduction of the amended Bill, 224 members voted in favour while nine in against. Several opposition members stated that the amendments will dilute the provisions of the original Bill. However, Speaker Om Birla said that objections should be about the introduction of the Bill and its merits can be discussed during the discussion. Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Jitendra Singh, rejected allegations of the Opposition and said that nobody can accuse the government of weakening the architecture concerning the Right to Information."A portal for the purpose was created during our government," he said. Singh accused the erstwhile UPA government of bringing the law in a hurry and leaving loopholes and said that the bill would allow the government to frame rules. Singh said that the government is open to suggestions from opposition members when the Bill is discussed.

Decision to amend RTI Act is a bad move: Arvind Kejriwal

As the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-two-bjp-supporters-arrested-in-connection-with-trinamool-congress-leaders-murder-224708">Trinamool Congress</a> is set to organise its annual rally on July 21, West Bengal BJP chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-conspiring-to-separate-bengal-from-india-bjp-in-lok-sabha-230301">Dilip Ghosh</a> on Saturday said that TMC`s programme would be "Didi`s Circus".

He said that the meeting would be a "condolence" meeting. TMC observes July 21 as Martyrs` Day every year in remembrance of those who died in 1993 police firing, in Kolkata.

This year`s rally gains significance as it would be the first mega show by TMC after its poll debacle in Lok Sabha elections. "All went there to see Didi`s drama and circus. Will anyone from here go tomorrow to see a circus? No gates, no flags, what is going on I can`t understand. Will that be a winning festival or a condolence meeting?" asked Dilip Ghosh.

"TMC`s condolence meeting is going on as they lost in these elections following which they are unable to celebrate the winning festival. The public should catch hold of TMC leaders who are going to Kolkata by road and ask them to return the public money which they had taken in last 7-8 years," he said.

While reacting to the FIR lodged against him for his comments on TMC rally, Ghosh said: "The people are not going to come to TMC rally and it would prove to be a flop show. The TMC needs some excuse for their failure and hence they are making Dilip Ghosh and BJP a scape-goat."

"If TMC leaders have guts then they should lodge ten more FIRs against me and I will face them all," Ghosh added.

As the Trinamool Congress is set to organise its annual rally on July 21, West Bengal BJP chief Dilip Ghosh on Saturday said that TMC`s programme would be "Didi`s Circus".

As the Trinamool Congress is set to organise its annual rally on July 21, West Bengal BJP chief Dilip Ghosh on Saturday said that TMC`s programme would be "Didi`s Circus". He said that the meeting would be a "condolence" meeting. TMC observes July 21 as Martyrs` Day every year in remembrance of those who died in 1993 police firing, in Kolkata. This year`s rally gains significance as it would be the first mega show by TMC after its poll debacle in Lok Sabha elections. "All went there to see Didi`s drama and circus. Will anyone from here go tomorrow to see a circus? No gates, no flags, what is going on I can`t understand. Will that be a winning festival or a condolence meeting?" asked Dilip Ghosh. "TMC`s condolence meeting is going on as they lost in these elections following which they are unable to celebrate the winning festival. The public should catch hold of TMC leaders who are going to Kolkata by road and ask them to return the public money which they had taken in last 7-8 years," he said. While reacting to the FIR lodged against him for his comments on TMC rally, Ghosh said: "The people are not going to come to TMC rally and it would prove to be a flop show. The TMC needs some excuse for their failure and hence they are making Dilip Ghosh and BJP a scape-goat." "If TMC leaders have guts then they should lodge ten more FIRs against me and I will face them all," Ghosh added.

Dilip Ghosh calls Trinamool Congress rally 'Didi's Circus', FIR lodged

Three more FIRs have been registered against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/samajwadi-party-alleges-harassment-of-azam-khan-through-bogus-cases-forms-delegation-236554">Samajwadi Party MP Azam Khan</a> in connection with land encroachment cases in Rampur district of Uttar Pradesh.

The total number of FIRs, as per the police, against Khan, now stands at 26 in cases relating to land grab.&nbsp;

The police said the complaints against him were verified and found to be genuine.

According to the complaints, the farmers` lands were illegally occupied through unscrupulous means with the help of a former Circle Officer.

The Uttar Pradesh government put the parliamentarian`s name on the government`s anti-land mafia portal earlier this week. "It means the cases will be directly monitored by the government and legal action will be taken," Rampur District Magistrate Aunjaneya Kumar had said.

A government has formed a three-member committee to investigate the case. Rampur SP earlier this week said that the police will make arrests in the case.

Alleging that Khan was unnecessarily being harassed, Samajwadi Party has formed a high-level delegation of its legislative party members to look into the matter on July 17.

Khan, a former state minister, has alleged that he was being harassed as he defeated BJP candidate in the Lok Sabha elections. "Since I won the election against BJP, I am being punished. All allegations are false. They can investigate if they want to. There are enemies all around me," he had said.

Three more FIRs have been registered against Samajwadi Party MP Azam Khan in connection with land encroachment cases in Rampur district of Uttar Pradesh. The total number of FIRs, as per the police, against Khan, now stands at 26 in cases relating to land grab.

Three more FIRs have been registered against Samajwadi Party MP Azam Khan in connection with land encroachment cases in Rampur district of Uttar Pradesh. The total number of FIRs, as per the police, against Khan, now stands at 26 in cases relating to land grab. The police said the complaints against him were verified and found to be genuine. According to the complaints, the farmers` lands were illegally occupied through unscrupulous means with the help of a former Circle Officer. The Uttar Pradesh government put the parliamentarian`s name on the government`s anti-land mafia portal earlier this week. "It means the cases will be directly monitored by the government and legal action will be taken," Rampur District Magistrate Aunjaneya Kumar had said. A government has formed a three-member committee to investigate the case. Rampur SP earlier this week said that the police will make arrests in the case. Alleging that Khan was unnecessarily being harassed, Samajwadi Party has formed a high-level delegation of its legislative party members to look into the matter on July 17. Khan, a former state minister, has alleged that he was being harassed as he defeated BJP candidate in the Lok Sabha elections. "Since I won the election against BJP, I am being punished. All allegations are false. They can investigate if they want to. There are enemies all around me," he had said.

Uttar Pradesh: 3 more FIRs registered against Azam Khan for land grab

Bharatiya Janata Party`s parliamentary party meeting commenced at Parliament Library Building here on Tuesday with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/narendra-modi-20-would-propel-affordable-housing-in-india-224832">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>, Home Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/home-minister-amit-shah-emerges-as-clear-no-2-224821">Amit Shah </a>and other senior leaders of the party in attendance.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi, Minister of External Affairs, S. Jaishankar, and Minister of State for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan were among the early leaders to arrive for the meeting.&nbsp;

On July 14, BJP had issued a notice to its Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs informing them about today's meeting and asked them to ensure attendance.&nbsp;

The meeting comes ahead of the beginning of the day`s proceeding in the ongoing Monsoon Session of the Parliament.

Bharatiya Janata Party`s parliamentary party meeting commenced at Parliament Library Building here on Tuesday with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and other senior leaders of the party in attendance.

Bharatiya Janata Party`s parliamentary party meeting commenced at Parliament Library Building here on Tuesday with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and other senior leaders of the party in attendance. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi, Minister of External Affairs, S. Jaishankar, and Minister of State for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan were among the early leaders to arrive for the meeting. On July 14, BJP had issued a notice to its Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs informing them about today's meeting and asked them to ensure attendance. The meeting comes ahead of the beginning of the day`s proceeding in the ongoing Monsoon Session of the Parliament.

PM Narendra Modi, Amit Shah attend Bharatiya Janata Party parliamentary party meet

The Lok Sabha on Monday took up the discussion on an amendment bill that seeks to strengthen the National Investigation Agency (NIA) by empowering it to probe offences committed outside India against Indian citizens or affecting the interests of India.

Moving the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nia-attaches-properties-of-kashmiri-separatist-leader-asiya-andrabi-in-srinagar-234540"> National Investigation Agency</a> (Amendment) Bill, 2019 for consideration and passage in the House, Minister of State for Home G&nbsp;Kishan Reddy said that terrorism is a dangerous problem and senior leaders have been victims.

The Bill seeks to amend the NIA Act, 2008.

Reddy said that terrorists outside India had been making efforts to target India.

He said that there should be an agency to probe cases if Indian embassies, its flights or non-resident Indians are targetted by terrorists and the Bill seeks to provide such powers to NIA.

The minister said that NIA probes have yielded good results and out of the 272 cases registered, judgment has been delivered in 52 cases, while there is a conviction in 46 other cases.

"There has been a conviction in big cases. There have been 90 per cent conviction," Reddy said.

The union minister said that special courts have been constituted to decide cases probed by NIA but there is some delay if a judge is transferred, promoted or retires.

&nbsp;He added that the process is being simplified to avoid delay and expedite the trial process.

The Bill also seeks to strengthen powers of NIA in cases involving explosives and the responsibility in cases of human trafficking will be given to the investigation agency, Reddy said.

He stressed that the agency will be empowered to probe cases involving `prohibited arms` and powers in handling cases of cyber-terrorism will be strengthened.

Reddy said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stressed that there will be <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/infiltration-in-jammu-and-kashmir-reduced-by-43-after-balakot-airstrike-says-government-234382">zero tolerance in terrorism cases</a>.

Urging members to support the Bill, the union minister said it has been brought in the interests of the country.&nbsp;

The Lok Sabha on Monday took up the discussion on an amendment bill that seeks to strengthen the National Investigation Agency (NIA) by empowering it to probe offences committed outside India against Indian citizens or affecting the interests of India.

The Lok Sabha on Monday took up the discussion on an amendment bill that seeks to strengthen the National Investigation Agency (NIA) by empowering it to probe offences committed outside India against Indian citizens or affecting the interests of India. Moving the National Investigation Agency (Amendment) Bill, 2019 for consideration and passage in the House, Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy said that terrorism is a dangerous problem and senior leaders have been victims. The Bill seeks to amend the NIA Act, 2008. Reddy said that terrorists outside India had been making efforts to target India. He said that there should be an agency to probe cases if Indian embassies, its flights or non-resident Indians are targetted by terrorists and the Bill seeks to provide such powers to NIA. The minister said that NIA probes have yielded good results and out of the 272 cases registered, judgment has been delivered in 52 cases, while there is a conviction in 46 other cases. "There has been a conviction in big cases. There have been 90 per cent conviction," Reddy said. The union minister said that special courts have been constituted to decide cases probed by NIA but there is some delay if a judge is transferred, promoted or retires. He added that the process is being simplified to avoid delay and expedite the trial process. The Bill also seeks to strengthen powers of NIA in cases involving explosives and the responsibility in cases of human trafficking will be given to the investigation agency, Reddy said. He stressed that the agency will be empowered to probe cases involving `prohibited arms` and powers in handling cases of cyber-terrorism will be strengthened. Reddy said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stressed that there will be zero tolerance in terrorism cases. Urging members to support the Bill, the union minister said it has been brought in the interests of the country.

Lok Sabha takes up Bill seeking to strengthen powers of National Investigation Agency

Members of Parliament (MPs) from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/samajwadi-party-will-support-extension-of-presidents-rule-in-jammu-kashmir-ram-gopal-yadav-232008">Trinamool Congress (TMC)</a> on Monday gave Zero Hour notice in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-vilas-paswan-takes-oath-as-rajya-sabha-member-232001">Rajya Sabha</a> over two different issues about the Centre's recent proposals.

TMC lawmaker Manish Gupta has given Zero Hour notice in the Upper House of Parliament over the government`s proposal to link data of three crore students to Facebook.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, another MP Dola Sen from TMC has given the notice in Rajya Sabha over the Centre`s proposal to divest 42 public sector units.

The Zero Hour refers to the time immediately following the Question Hour in both the Houses of Parliament.

&nbsp;During this hour, parliamentarians can raise matters of great importance without the mandatory ten days advance notice.

&nbsp;The first Session of the 17th Lok Sabha, which commenced on June 17, will culminate on July 26.

Members of Parliament (MPs) from Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Monday gave Zero Hour notice in Rajya Sabha over two different issues about the Centre's recent proposals.

Members of Parliament (MPs) from Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Monday gave Zero Hour notice in Rajya Sabha over two different issues about the Centre's recent proposals. TMC lawmaker Manish Gupta has given Zero Hour notice in the Upper House of Parliament over the government`s proposal to link data of three crore students to Facebook. Meanwhile, another MP Dola Sen from TMC has given the notice in Rajya Sabha over the Centre`s proposal to divest 42 public sector units. The Zero Hour refers to the time immediately following the Question Hour in both the Houses of Parliament. During this hour, parliamentarians can raise matters of great importance without the mandatory ten days advance notice. The first Session of the 17th Lok Sabha, which commenced on June 17, will culminate on July 26.

Trinamool Congress MPs give two Zero Hour notices in Rajya Sabha over Centre's proposals

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