<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

India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman arrived in Parliament today accompanied by&nbsp;MoS finance Anurag Thakur to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/ahead-of-budget-sensex-crosses-40k-mark-233149">present the Union Budget</a> as the Budget papers reached the Lok Sabha amid heavy security.

Sitharaman carried her Budget documents i<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/in-a-first-finance-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-to-carry-budget-documents-four-fold-red-cloth-233152">n a four-fold red cloth as India</a> awaited the Budget presentation by the new finance minister.

Parents of the finance Minister - Savitri and Narayanan Sitharaman - also arrived in Parliament to witness the Budget proceedings.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Budget in Lok Sabha at 11am today.

As per convention, Sitharaman earlier in on Friday morning met President Kovind to before presenting the Budget.

This will be Nirmala Sitharaman's first Budget presentation as the new finance minister under the Modi government which won a second term after a mammoth victory in the general election on May 23rd.

India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman arrived in Parliament today accompanied by MoS finance Anurag Thakur to present the Union Budget as the Budget papers reached the Lok Sabha amid heavy security.

India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman arrived in Parliament today accompanied by MoS finance Anurag Thakur to present the Union Budget as the Budget papers reached the Lok Sabha amid heavy security. Sitharaman carried her Budget documents in a four-fold red cloth as India awaited the Budget presentation by the new finance minister. Parents of the finance Minister - Savitri and Narayanan Sitharaman - also arrived in Parliament to witness the Budget proceedings. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Budget in Lok Sabha at 11am today. As per convention, Sitharaman earlier in on Friday morning met President Kovind to before presenting the Budget. This will be Nirmala Sitharaman's first Budget presentation as the new finance minister under the Modi government which won a second term after a mammoth victory in the general election on May 23rd.

Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman arrives in Parliament to present Budget

From invoking the divinity to tinge of poetry, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's maiden Budget speech on Friday was interspersed with couplets and quotes.

Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Sitharaman quoted Urdu poet Manzoor Hashmi, Chankaya, Swami Vivekananda and Lord Basaveshwara`s couplets and teachings in the House.

Starting her maiden Budget speech, she recited a Hashmi`s couplet, "Yakeen ho toh koi rasta nikalta hai, hawa ki to kar bhi chiraag jalta hai" (You find ways somehow if you have faith. The lamp burns bright even in gushing wind).

Her speech was received with appreciation by lawmakers.

Affirming faith in the budget, Sitharaman also quoted Chanakya`s Neeti saying, "Kaarya purusha kare na lakshyam sampa dayate" (With determined human efforts, the task will surely be completed).

She made the reference while speaking of India`s target of becoming a $5 trillion economy in the next few years. She added that people wonder and doubt if the goal can be achieved.&nbsp;

Giving stress on the significance of women empowerment, the Minister quoted Swami Vivekananda, "There is no chance of the welfare of the world unless the condition of women is improved. It is not possible for a bird to fly on one wing."

She invoked 12th-century social reformer and thinker Lord Basaveshwara`s principles and said, "Our government recognizes and follows the teachings of Lord Basaveshwara who preached `Kayakave Kailasa" (work is worship).

Lord Basaveshwara was the one who first established the concept of `Kalyana Rajya` (welfare state).

While speaking of taxation, Sitharaman also quoted Sangam-era Tamil classic `Yaanai Pugundha Nilam` written by Pisirandhayar in Purananooru.

What the minister said in Tamil translates to, " An elephant will be happy to have two mounds of rice from a paddy field. But if it enters the land, it will have far less to eat than it will trample."

"This is the principle we will follow in taxation. We will be happy to collect only that much taxes that is necessary from the taxpayer. We will not trample on the taxpayer," she said.

(With inputs from ANI)

From invoking the divinity to tinge of poetry, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's maiden Budget speech on Friday was interspersed with couplets and quotes. Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Sitharaman quoted Urdu poet Manzoor Hashmi, Chankaya, Swami Vivekananda and Lord Basaveshwara`s couplets and teachings in the House.

From invoking the divinity to tinge of poetry, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's maiden Budget speech on Friday was interspersed with couplets and quotes. Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Sitharaman quoted Urdu poet Manzoor Hashmi, Chankaya, Swami Vivekananda and Lord Basaveshwara`s couplets and teachings in the House. Starting her maiden Budget speech, she recited a Hashmi`s couplet, "Yakeen ho toh koi rasta nikalta hai, hawa ki to kar bhi chiraag jalta hai" (You find ways somehow if you have faith. The lamp burns bright even in gushing wind). Her speech was received with appreciation by lawmakers. Affirming faith in the budget, Sitharaman also quoted Chanakya`s Neeti saying, "Kaarya purusha kare na lakshyam sampa dayate" (With determined human efforts, the task will surely be completed). She made the reference while speaking of India`s target of becoming a $5 trillion economy in the next few years. She added that people wonder and doubt if the goal can be achieved. Giving stress on the significance of women empowerment, the Minister quoted Swami Vivekananda, "There is no chance of the welfare of the world unless the condition of women is improved. It is not possible for a bird to fly on one wing." She invoked 12th-century social reformer and thinker Lord Basaveshwara`s principles and said, "Our government recognizes and follows the teachings of Lord Basaveshwara who preached `Kayakave Kailasa" (work is worship). Lord Basaveshwara was the one who first established the concept of `Kalyana Rajya` (welfare state). While speaking of taxation, Sitharaman also quoted Sangam-era Tamil classic `Yaanai Pugundha Nilam` written by Pisirandhayar in Purananooru. What the minister said in Tamil translates to, " An elephant will be happy to have two mounds of rice from a paddy field. But if it enters the land, it will have far less to eat than it will trample." "This is the principle we will follow in taxation. We will be happy to collect only that much taxes that is necessary from the taxpayer. We will not trample on the taxpayer," she said. (With inputs from ANI)

From invoking divinity to pure poetry, Sitharaman sprinkles Budget speech with couplets and quotes

During the Budget speech, finance minister<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-2019-key-takeaways-announced-by-nirmala-sitharaman-in-parliament-233179"> Nirmala Sitharaman said India's</a> sovereign external debt to GDP was among the lowest globally at less than 5 per cent.

"The fiscal deficit this year is 3.3 per cent, brought down from 3.4 per cent,"&nbsp;Sitharaman said.

"More than 120 crore Indians now have Aadhar card, therefore for ease of taxpayers I propose to make PAN card and Aadhar card interchangeable and allow those who don't have PAN to file returns by simply quoting Aadhar number and use it wherever they require to use PAN," the finance minister said.&nbsp;

The finance minister informed that Parliament that tax collection had risen from Rs 6.38 lakh crore rupees in 2013-14 to Rs 11.37 lakh crore rupees in 2018.

"Tax proposal will spur growth," the finance minister said.

"The government will start raising a part of its gross borrowing program in external markets in external currencies," Sitharaman said during her maiden Budget speech.

"New series of coins of Rs 1, Rs 2, Rs 5, Rs 10, Rs 20 easily identifiable to the visually impaired released by the PM on 7th March 2019. The&nbsp;coins will be made available for public use shortly,' the finance minister said.

Highlights of Tax policy:

Direct tax revenue increased by 78 per cent.

Excise hike on Rs 1 litre on petrol, diesel

Customs duty on gold increased by 2 per cent

Cheaper home loans for houses upto 45 lakhs

Proposal to levy TDS of 2 per cent on cash withdrawal exceeding Rs 1 crore in a year from a bank account.

Tax benefits for buying electric vehicles.

Easing of Angel tax for startups.

Additional income tax deduction on loans taken on e-vehicles.

All companies with an annual turnover of Rs 400 crores to now come under the&nbsp; 25 per cent bracket. It will cover 99.3 per cent of all the companies.

Tax deduction for affordable housing.

Interchangeability&nbsp;of Pan, Aadhar.

Discourage making cash payments in business transactions.

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During the Budget speech, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman said India's sovereign external debt to GDP was among the lowest globally at less than 5 per cent. "The fiscal deficit this year is 3.

During the Budget speech, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman said India's sovereign external debt to GDP was among the lowest globally at less than 5 per cent. "The fiscal deficit this year is 3.3 per cent, brought down from 3.4 per cent," Sitharaman said. "More than 120 crore Indians now have Aadhar card, therefore for ease of taxpayers I propose to make PAN card and Aadhar card interchangeable and allow those who don't have PAN to file returns by simply quoting Aadhar number and use it wherever they require to use PAN," the finance minister said. The finance minister informed that Parliament that tax collection had risen from Rs 6.38 lakh crore rupees in 2013-14 to Rs 11.37 lakh crore rupees in 2018. "Tax proposal will spur growth," the finance minister said. "The government will start raising a part of its gross borrowing program in external markets in external currencies," Sitharaman said during her maiden Budget speech. "New series of coins of Rs 1, Rs 2, Rs 5, Rs 10, Rs 20 easily identifiable to the visually impaired released by the PM on 7th March 2019. The coins will be made available for public use shortly,' the finance minister said. Highlights of Tax policy: Direct tax revenue increased by 78 per cent. Excise hike on Rs 1 litre on petrol, diesel Customs duty on gold increased by 2 per cent Cheaper home loans for houses upto 45 lakhs Proposal to levy TDS of 2 per cent on cash withdrawal exceeding Rs 1 crore in a year from a bank account. Tax benefits for buying electric vehicles. Easing of Angel tax for startups. Additional income tax deduction on loans taken on e-vehicles. All companies with an annual turnover of Rs 400 crores to now come under the 25 per cent bracket. It will cover 99.3 per cent of all the companies. Tax deduction for affordable housing. Interchangeability of Pan, Aadhar. Discourage making cash payments in business transactions.

Budget 2019: Highlights of taxation, revenue policy announced by finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman

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