Home Minister Amit Shah said in Lok Sabha that Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Aksai Chin are part of Jammu and Kashmir and that Kashmir Valley is an integral part of the country.

PoK and Aksai Chin are part of Jammu and Kashmir says Amit Shah

What is Congress stand on Article 370? Watch video to know more.

What is Congress stand on Article 370?

The Modi government has scrapped the article 370 of the Indian constitution except clause 1 of the same. Now the Jammu and Kashmir would be an Union territory with legislative assembly like Delhi and Puducherry. And here's how the new map of J&K will look like now.

Modi govt redraws line, this is how the map of J&K will look like now

Article 370, which granted special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&amp;K), has been removed by a Presidential Order.

Home Minister Amit Shah also presented a J&amp;K Reorganisation Bill, through which the state has been bifurcated into two Union Territories — Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. With this, Article 35A has also been annulled, which was discriminatory against non-residents and women of J&amp;K.&nbsp;

With bigger mandate come bigger expectations. The right-wing supporters of BJP and RSS expected the Modi 2.0 government to walk the talk on Uniform Civil Code, Article 370, Article 35A, Ram Temple, Hindu rashtra, and other ideological issues. Through this, the BJP has fulfilled one of its long-standing promise.

In its 2019 poll manifesto, it had mentioned, “We reiterate our position since the time of the Jan Sangh to the abrogation of Article 370.” Through this act, it consolidates its core vote bank, who have stood by the party through thick and thin. It establishes the one nation, one constitution principle.&nbsp;

As BJP MP Swapan Dasgupta put it in Rajya Sabha, the repeal of Article 370 establishes the political sovereignty of the Indian Parliament to whole of India without making any exception for J&amp;K.&nbsp;

The stunned opposition was clueless and ill-prepared despite these rumours doing the rounds for the last few days. Congress leader P Chidambaram called the move a “constitutional monstrosity” and warned other states against “future moves to dismember them”.

The move has the potential of making local political parties irrelevant. The National Conference (NC) and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have opposed the move. The Abdullahs and Muftis (dynasts) have been ruling the state for decades since Independence and exploited the local sentiments for their political benefit.&nbsp;

On expected lines, Omar Abdullah termed the decision as disastrous, illegal and unconstitutional. He alleged that the Government of India resorted to deceit and stealth and this is an aggression on the people of J&amp;K.

Mehbooba Mufti, meanwhile, termed it as the darkest day in Indian democracy. She slammed the unilateral decision of the Government of India to scrap Article 370, which will make India an occupational force in J&amp;K.&nbsp;

Both these leaders have been put under house arrest. PDP has been accused of being soft on separatists even during the brief rule of PDP-BJP combine in the state. There is a risk that since the PDP and NC face an existential threat, they could join hands with separatist groups to fan unrest in the Valley. It could also force the two Valley parties to form an alliance in state elections to take on the BJP.

Many critics feel that politically this move amounts to an assault on the Muslim identity of J&amp;K. The RSS has always believed that the only way to resolve Kashmir issue is through a sweeping demographic change in the state, facilitated by the integration of the Valley with the rest of country.&nbsp;

Political parties across the spectrum, including the BSP, BJD, YSRCP, AAP, TRS and the TDP supported the repeal of Article 370. It is a good sign for the Indian democracy and highlights the fact that on issues of national interest, parties cutting across political spectrum and irrespective of ideology, can come together and work unitedly. Arvind Kejriwal hoped it would bring peace in the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

JD (U)’s opposition, though, is a cause of concern for the BJP, especially with the Bihar Assembly elections due next year. The party earlier opposed the Triple Talaq Bill as well. JD (U) is not part of the Union Cabinet and shares a love-hate relationship with the BJP. There are also rumours that Nitish could go back to Lalu’s RJD, which could weaken BJP’s chances in Bihar. After reorganisation, de-limitation could be the next thing that the BJP comes up with. Kashmir has 46, Jammu 37 and Ladakh four seats, implying that the party securing a majority in the Valley has been dominating the political scene in the state.&nbsp;

The people of Jammu and Ladakh have for years, alleged discrimination and lack of development. In terms of area as well as voter population per seat, Jammu is much bigger compared to the Kashmir Valley.

As per reports, de-limitation could increase seats of Jammu by 10-15, bringing it at least on par with Kashmir. Reservation of seats for the SC/ST community is also likely to be introduced.&nbsp;

BJP hopes to sweep the Jammu region, as and when elections are held, and instal a first non-Kashmiri and Hindu chief minister in the state. Even if PDP and NC join forces and win the elections, the issue is that the chief minister of a Union Territory doesn’t enjoy the same powers as other states. In Delhi, Kejriwal has been fighting for absolute powers and alleging how the BJP has been meddling in the affairs of the state through the Lieutenant Governor. So, the old days of Abdullahs and Muftis may never return. The BJP at the Centre will have the reins of power of the state.

In the recent past, the BJP has got UAPA/RTI Amendment Bill and the Triple Talaq Bill passed in the House of Elders despite not having a majority. The J&amp;K Reorganisation Bill was introduced first in Rajya Sabha and not in Lok Sabha. This reflects the BJP’s confidence after winning a brute majority in May, using far superior floor management skills.&nbsp;

It also shows that India is now not only Congress-mukt, but also opposition-mukt. The BJP has now occupied the dominant position once held by the Congress in India’s political space.&nbsp;

Now, over to courts as the decision is likely to be challenged!

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-game-up-for-abdullahs-muftis-2779226">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

Article 370, which granted special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), has been removed by a Presidential Order. Home Minister Amit Shah also presented a J&K Reorganisation Bill, through which the state has been bifurcated into two Union Territories — Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

Article 370, which granted special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), has been removed by a Presidential Order. Home Minister Amit Shah also presented a J&K Reorganisation Bill, through which the state has been bifurcated into two Union Territories — Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. With this, Article 35A has also been annulled, which was discriminatory against non-residents and women of J&K. With bigger mandate come bigger expectations. The right-wing supporters of BJP and RSS expected the Modi 2.0 government to walk the talk on Uniform Civil Code, Article 370, Article 35A, Ram Temple, Hindu rashtra, and other ideological issues. Through this, the BJP has fulfilled one of its long-standing promise. In its 2019 poll manifesto, it had mentioned, “We reiterate our position since the time of the Jan Sangh to the abrogation of Article 370.” Through this act, it consolidates its core vote bank, who have stood by the party through thick and thin. It establishes the one nation, one constitution principle. As BJP MP Swapan Dasgupta put it in Rajya Sabha, the repeal of Article 370 establishes the political sovereignty of the Indian Parliament to whole of India without making any exception for J&K. The stunned opposition was clueless and ill-prepared despite these rumours doing the rounds for the last few days. Congress leader P Chidambaram called the move a “constitutional monstrosity” and warned other states against “future moves to dismember them”. The move has the potential of making local political parties irrelevant. The National Conference (NC) and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have opposed the move. The Abdullahs and Muftis (dynasts) have been ruling the state for decades since Independence and exploited the local sentiments for their political benefit. On expected lines, Omar Abdullah termed the decision as disastrous, illegal and unconstitutional. He alleged that the Government of India resorted to deceit and stealth and this is an aggression on the people of J&K. Mehbooba Mufti, meanwhile, termed it as the darkest day in Indian democracy. She slammed the unilateral decision of the Government of India to scrap Article 370, which will make India an occupational force in J&K. Both these leaders have been put under house arrest. PDP has been accused of being soft on separatists even during the brief rule of PDP-BJP combine in the state. There is a risk that since the PDP and NC face an existential threat, they could join hands with separatist groups to fan unrest in the Valley. It could also force the two Valley parties to form an alliance in state elections to take on the BJP. Many critics feel that politically this move amounts to an assault on the Muslim identity of J&K. The RSS has always believed that the only way to resolve Kashmir issue is through a sweeping demographic change in the state, facilitated by the integration of the Valley with the rest of country. Political parties across the spectrum, including the BSP, BJD, YSRCP, AAP, TRS and the TDP supported the repeal of Article 370. It is a good sign for the Indian democracy and highlights the fact that on issues of national interest, parties cutting across political spectrum and irrespective of ideology, can come together and work unitedly. Arvind Kejriwal hoped it would bring peace in the Kashmir Valley. JD (U)’s opposition, though, is a cause of concern for the BJP, especially with the Bihar Assembly elections due next year. The party earlier opposed the Triple Talaq Bill as well. JD (U) is not part of the Union Cabinet and shares a love-hate relationship with the BJP. There are also rumours that Nitish could go back to Lalu’s RJD, which could weaken BJP’s chances in Bihar. After reorganisation, de-limitation could be the next thing that the BJP comes up with. Kashmir has 46, Jammu 37 and Ladakh four seats, implying that the party securing a majority in the Valley has been dominating the political scene in the state. The people of Jammu and Ladakh have for years, alleged discrimination and lack of development. In terms of area as well as voter population per seat, Jammu is much bigger compared to the Kashmir Valley. As per reports, de-limitation could increase seats of Jammu by 10-15, bringing it at least on par with Kashmir. Reservation of seats for the SC/ST community is also likely to be introduced. BJP hopes to sweep the Jammu region, as and when elections are held, and instal a first non-Kashmiri and Hindu chief minister in the state. Even if PDP and NC join forces and win the elections, the issue is that the chief minister of a Union Territory doesn’t enjoy the same powers as other states. In Delhi, Kejriwal has been fighting for absolute powers and alleging how the BJP has been meddling in the affairs of the state through the Lieutenant Governor. So, the old days of Abdullahs and Muftis may never return. The BJP at the Centre will have the reins of power of the state. In the recent past, the BJP has got UAPA/RTI Amendment Bill and the Triple Talaq Bill passed in the House of Elders despite not having a majority. The J&K Reorganisation Bill was introduced first in Rajya Sabha and not in Lok Sabha. This reflects the BJP’s confidence after winning a brute majority in May, using far superior floor management skills. It also shows that India is now not only Congress-mukt, but also opposition-mukt. The BJP has now occupied the dominant position once held by the Congress in India’s political space. Now, over to courts as the decision is likely to be challenged! (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Game up for Abdullahs, Muftis

Rahul Gandhi finally breaks his silence and reacts over J&k reorganistaion bill that yesterday passed in Rajya Sabha and same introduced in the Lok Sabha today. He says that 'Nation made by people, not plots of land'

Rahul Gandhi finally reacts to J&k bill; says 'Nation made by people, not plots of land'

A day after the Rajya Sabha passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, the same was tabled by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday.

Govt, Oppositon spar over J&K reorganisation bill; LS to shorty vote on Article 370

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday arrived in Parliament Library on the second day of 'Abhyas Varga' training programme being organised by the BJP for all its parliamentarians in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

Modi was accompanied by BJP working president JP Nadda, among others.

On day one of the exercise, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-asks-party-mps-to-take-government-work-to-grassroots-240429">Prime Minister gave lessons</a> to the newly-elected BJP MPs on how to become a successful public representative.

According to those who attended the training being held in the Parliament premises, Modi asked the MPs to remain connected with their well-wishers who had worked for their success in their respective constituencies.

While Modi spoke on how to become an 'efficient MP', Nadda spoke on organisation expansion and party's mantra of 'paanch nishthayen' (that include Rashtriyata (nationalism), democracy, gandhiwadi samajwad (Gandhian socialism), sarvadharm sambhav (religious harmony) and politics guided by morals.

Chosen by the party, the lawmakers -- Bhagwanth Kuba, C R Patil and Sudhir Gupta shared the formula of being a "successful MP". 
The trio, under the leadership of Union Minister Thawar Chand Gehlot, shared the stories of implementation of central government schemes in their respective constituencies.

The agenda of the two-day 'Abhyas Varga' training programme is a focused group discussion on 'Situation in West Bengal' and a session that imparts NaMo App training to parliamentarians among other things.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday arrived in Parliament Library on the second day of 'Abhyas Varga' training programme being organised by the BJP for all its parliamentarians in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday arrived in Parliament Library on the second day of 'Abhyas Varga' training programme being organised by the BJP for all its parliamentarians in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Modi was accompanied by BJP working president JP Nadda, among others. On day one of the exercise, the Prime Minister gave lessons to the newly-elected BJP MPs on how to become a successful public representative. According to those who attended the training being held in the Parliament premises, Modi asked the MPs to remain connected with their well-wishers who had worked for their success in their respective constituencies. While Modi spoke on how to become an 'efficient MP', Nadda spoke on organisation expansion and party's mantra of 'paanch nishthayen' (that include Rashtriyata (nationalism), democracy, gandhiwadi samajwad (Gandhian socialism), sarvadharm sambhav (religious harmony) and politics guided by morals. Chosen by the party, the lawmakers -- Bhagwanth Kuba, C R Patil and Sudhir Gupta shared the formula of being a "successful MP". The trio, under the leadership of Union Minister Thawar Chand Gehlot, shared the stories of implementation of central government schemes in their respective constituencies. The agenda of the two-day 'Abhyas Varga' training programme is a focused group discussion on 'Situation in West Bengal' and a session that imparts NaMo App training to parliamentarians among other things.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Parliament for second day of training programme

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will introduce Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Second Amendment) Bill, 2019 on Monday in Rajya Sabha (Upper House of parliament).&nbsp;

This Bill is to implement 10 per cent Economically Weaker Section (EWS) quota in Jammu and Kashmir.

Earlier, the Union Cabinet approved the Jammu and&nbsp;Kashmir Reservation (2nd Amendment) Bill, 2019.

The 10 per cent quota Bill to economically weaker sections was introduced through the 103rd Constitution Amendment in January.&nbsp;

The Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha cleared the bill on January 8 and 9 respectively, and it has been signed by President Ram Nath Kovind.

Meanwhile, a meeting is underway between Amit Shah, Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, at the Parliament.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will introduce Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Second Amendment) Bill, 2019 on Monday in Rajya Sabha (Upper House of parliament). This Bill is to implement 10 per cent Economically Weaker Section (EWS) quota in Jammu and Kashmir.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will introduce Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Second Amendment) Bill, 2019 on Monday in Rajya Sabha (Upper House of parliament). This Bill is to implement 10 per cent Economically Weaker Section (EWS) quota in Jammu and Kashmir. Earlier, the Union Cabinet approved the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (2nd Amendment) Bill, 2019. The 10 per cent quota Bill to economically weaker sections was introduced through the 103rd Constitution Amendment in January. The Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha cleared the bill on January 8 and 9 respectively, and it has been signed by President Ram Nath Kovind. Meanwhile, a meeting is underway between Amit Shah, Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, at the Parliament.

Home Minister Amit Shah to introduce J&K Reservation Bill in Upper House on Monday

Opposition members in the Lok Sabha on Thursday accused the government of making frequent and late changes in the list of business, making it difficult for them to prepare for bills.

Speaker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-speaker-om-birla-rejects-ministers-demand-says-there-will-be-no-adjournments-238511">Om Birla</a> assured them that he will take care that members get information about the bills on the agenda at least one day in advance. Opposition members raised the issue soon after the House met for the day and Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury alleged that bills were being brought in without taking members into confidence.&nbsp;

He was countered by Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal, who said the bills were discussed in the meeting of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/17-opposition-mps-express-concern-over-passing-bills-without-scrutiny-write-to-rajya-sabha-chairman-238669">Business Advisory Committee</a> (BAC) and only those bills are coming for which time had been allotted by the committee.

&nbsp;The Speaker said that opposition members can have detailed discussion on their concerns in the meeting of BAC and the bills being brought had been discussed at the meeting of the committee. Trinamool Congress member Saugata Roy said Dam Safety Bill was not taken up on Wednesday and members had prepared for it, but three other bills had been listed in Thursday`s agenda.

&nbsp;Another TMC lawmaker Sudip Bandopadhyay said that after the list of business, a revised list of business was reaching members after 9 pm. He said members do not have any idea of bills coming up and do not have adequate time for preparation.&nbsp;

Another party MP Kalyan Banerjee alleged that the government was using its power "whimsically and arbitrarily". "Parliament cannot function at whims and fancies of anyone," he said, adding that the BAC only allocates time and the list of business is prepared by the Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

DMK member Kanimozhi said that members have to wait in late evening hours for a revised list of business and "completely new bills" are brought. "There is decorum in the House and I am sure the government also does not want to spoil it.&nbsp;

The session was extended and we are cooperating. You can`t take us for granted to that extent. You have to respect that," she said. Gaurav Gogoi of Congress said they had hoped that there will be a discussion on floods in some parts of the country Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said that BAC meeting has been held, time allocated and bills have been circulated."The purpose of the extension is that very important government business (is pending), that`s why I appeal to you to cooperate," he said. He said short duration discussion can be taken up in regular session.&nbsp;

Chowdhury denied that he had called for deferring discussion on dam safety bill and said he had only said that it was a new bill and should not be clubbed with an amendment bill. He said the government should not take the Parliament for granted.

&nbsp;Birla said he had heard all the members and noted that Saugata Roy had not cited the whole point of order. The Speaker said his effort is to run the House by consensus."The issue you have raised, I will discuss again in BAC with you. And according to your expectation, I will personally take care that before the bill is brought, all members get information at least a day in advance from Speaker`s Office also so that you can prepare," he said.

&nbsp;Opposition members lauded the decision of Speaker with thumping of desks. "Today what will be taken up is what the Chair decides," he added. Later, Samajwadi Party (SP) member Mulayam Singh Yadav raised the issue of government extending the session and pressing with bills and alleged there was some "hidden agenda".

The money of people is being spent. There is some agenda. How many seats are vacant," he said. Joshi said opposition demanded that Parliament should run for at least 100 days in a year. "There is a business. The laws are being made in the interest of people," he said. &nbsp;

Opposition members in the Lok Sabha on Thursday accused the government of making frequent and late changes in the list of business, making it difficult for them to prepare for bills.

Opposition members in the Lok Sabha on Thursday accused the government of making frequent and late changes in the list of business, making it difficult for them to prepare for bills. Speaker Om Birla assured them that he will take care that members get information about the bills on the agenda at least one day in advance. Opposition members raised the issue soon after the House met for the day and Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury alleged that bills were being brought in without taking members into confidence. He was countered by Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal, who said the bills were discussed in the meeting of Business Advisory Committee (BAC) and only those bills are coming for which time had been allotted by the committee. The Speaker said that opposition members can have detailed discussion on their concerns in the meeting of BAC and the bills being brought had been discussed at the meeting of the committee. Trinamool Congress member Saugata Roy said Dam Safety Bill was not taken up on Wednesday and members had prepared for it, but three other bills had been listed in Thursday`s agenda. Another TMC lawmaker Sudip Bandopadhyay said that after the list of business, a revised list of business was reaching members after 9 pm. He said members do not have any idea of bills coming up and do not have adequate time for preparation. Another party MP Kalyan Banerjee alleged that the government was using its power "whimsically and arbitrarily". "Parliament cannot function at whims and fancies of anyone," he said, adding that the BAC only allocates time and the list of business is prepared by the Lok Sabha. DMK member Kanimozhi said that members have to wait in late evening hours for a revised list of business and "completely new bills" are brought. "There is decorum in the House and I am sure the government also does not want to spoil it. The session was extended and we are cooperating. You can`t take us for granted to that extent. You have to respect that," she said. Gaurav Gogoi of Congress said they had hoped that there will be a discussion on floods in some parts of the country Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said that BAC meeting has been held, time allocated and bills have been circulated."The purpose of the extension is that very important government business (is pending), that`s why I appeal to you to cooperate," he said. He said short duration discussion can be taken up in regular session. Chowdhury denied that he had called for deferring discussion on dam safety bill and said he had only said that it was a new bill and should not be clubbed with an amendment bill. He said the government should not take the Parliament for granted. Birla said he had heard all the members and noted that Saugata Roy had not cited the whole point of order. The Speaker said his effort is to run the House by consensus."The issue you have raised, I will discuss again in BAC with you. And according to your expectation, I will personally take care that before the bill is brought, all members get information at least a day in advance from Speaker`s Office also so that you can prepare," he said. Opposition members lauded the decision of Speaker with thumping of desks. "Today what will be taken up is what the Chair decides," he added. Later, Samajwadi Party (SP) member Mulayam Singh Yadav raised the issue of government extending the session and pressing with bills and alleged there was some "hidden agenda". The money of people is being spent. There is some agenda. How many seats are vacant," he said. Joshi said opposition demanded that Parliament should run for at least 100 days in a year. "There is a business. The laws are being made in the interest of people," he said.

Members will get information on bills a day in advance: Speaker assures Opposition

The controversial Triple Talaq bill has been finally passed in Rajya Sabha after 99 votes counted in favour and 84 against it. Watch video to know more.

Triple Talaq bill passes in Rajya Sabha; 99 votes in favour, 84 in against

The Lok Sabha on Monday passed a bill that seeks to create National Medical Commission in place of Medical Council of India (MCI) with Health Minister Harsh Vardhan terming it as an "anti-vested interests bill" which will be remembered as one of the greatest reforms brought by the Modi government.

The National Medical Commission Bill, 2019, was passed following a division even as the minister had appealed for its unanimous passage.

The Bill was passed with 260 members voting in its favour and 48 against it.

The amendments moved by the opposition were negatived. Congress members staged a walk out before the passage of the bill.

In his reply to points raised by opposition members, Vardhan termed the bill as "pro-public" and said it will help "move away from inspector raj".

He said the Bill will help improve standards of medical education in the country.

The minister referred to his own experience as a medical practitioner.

"After 45 years, this is probably the happiest moment. It will improve the standards of medical education. It is a major, major reform in medical education," he said.

The Bill provides that the common final year MBBS exams to be known as National Exit Test (NEXT) would serve as licentiate exam for entrance to post-graduate medical courses and as the screening test for foreign medical graduates.

It also provides that the national entrance test i.e. NEET, common counselling and NEXT shall also be applicable to Institutes of National Importance (INIs) like AIIMS to have common standards in the country.

The Bill provides that the Medical Assessment and Rating Board (MARB) will conduct an assessment to the medical college and develop a system of ranking medical colleges which would enable the students to chose the medical college wisely.

It provides for the repeal of the Indian Medical Council Act 1956.&nbsp;

The Lok Sabha on Monday passed a bill that seeks to create National Medical Commission in place of Medical Council of India (MCI) with Health Minister Harsh Vardhan terming it as an "anti-vested interests bill" which will be remembered as one of the greatest reforms brought by the Modi government.

The Lok Sabha on Monday passed a bill that seeks to create National Medical Commission in place of Medical Council of India (MCI) with Health Minister Harsh Vardhan terming it as an "anti-vested interests bill" which will be remembered as one of the greatest reforms brought by the Modi government. The National Medical Commission Bill, 2019, was passed following a division even as the minister had appealed for its unanimous passage. The Bill was passed with 260 members voting in its favour and 48 against it. The amendments moved by the opposition were negatived. Congress members staged a walk out before the passage of the bill. In his reply to points raised by opposition members, Vardhan termed the bill as "pro-public" and said it will help "move away from inspector raj". He said the Bill will help improve standards of medical education in the country. The minister referred to his own experience as a medical practitioner. "After 45 years, this is probably the happiest moment. It will improve the standards of medical education. It is a major, major reform in medical education," he said. The Bill provides that the common final year MBBS exams to be known as National Exit Test (NEXT) would serve as licentiate exam for entrance to post-graduate medical courses and as the screening test for foreign medical graduates. It also provides that the national entrance test i.e. NEET, common counselling and NEXT shall also be applicable to Institutes of National Importance (INIs) like AIIMS to have common standards in the country. The Bill provides that the Medical Assessment and Rating Board (MARB) will conduct an assessment to the medical college and develop a system of ranking medical colleges which would enable the students to chose the medical college wisely. It provides for the repeal of the Indian Medical Council Act 1956.

Lok Sabha passes National Medical Commission Bill, Harsh Vardhan calls it major reform

A bill which seeks to provide uniform safety procedures for specified dams in the country was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Monday.

The Dam Safety Bill, 2019 was introduced by Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat who said that 92 per cent of the dams in the country were inter-state and there was need for such a legislation.

The introduction of the bill was opposed by several opposition members who said that water and land are state subjects and the bill had been brought without proper consultation with states.

The bill entails the creation of the National Dam Safety Authority as a regulatory body, which will implement the policy, guidelines, and standards on dam safety in the country.

State committee on dam safety will be set up by the state governments. Every state will also set up a State Dam Safety Organisation.

A national committee on dam safety will be set up to evolve safety policies and recommend necessary regulations.

The bill seeks to address all issues concerning dam safety including regular inspection of dams, emergency action plan, adequate repair and maintenance funds, and instrumentation and the safety manuals.

The bill lays onus of dam safety on the dam owner and provides for penal provisions for commission and omission of certain acts.

Leader of the Congress party in Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said that the bill focuses on structural and not on operational safety.

A bill which seeks to provide uniform safety procedures for specified dams in the country was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Monday. The Dam Safety Bill, 2019 was introduced by Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat who said that 92 per cent of the dams in the country were inter-state and there was need for such a legislation.

A bill which seeks to provide uniform safety procedures for specified dams in the country was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Monday. The Dam Safety Bill, 2019 was introduced by Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat who said that 92 per cent of the dams in the country were inter-state and there was need for such a legislation. The introduction of the bill was opposed by several opposition members who said that water and land are state subjects and the bill had been brought without proper consultation with states. The bill entails the creation of the National Dam Safety Authority as a regulatory body, which will implement the policy, guidelines, and standards on dam safety in the country. State committee on dam safety will be set up by the state governments. Every state will also set up a State Dam Safety Organisation. A national committee on dam safety will be set up to evolve safety policies and recommend necessary regulations. The bill seeks to address all issues concerning dam safety including regular inspection of dams, emergency action plan, adequate repair and maintenance funds, and instrumentation and the safety manuals. The bill lays onus of dam safety on the dam owner and provides for penal provisions for commission and omission of certain acts. Leader of the Congress party in Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said that the bill focuses on structural and not on operational safety.

Bill on dam safety introduced in Lok Sabha

Rajya Sabha Passes The Controversial RTI Amendment Bill 2019 After Huge Ruckus The last few days saw some serious drama in Indian Parliament. The major bone of contention was the controversial RTI Amendment bill which the government managed to pass in Rajya Sabha today. Opposition parties, activists and even former information commissioners say that the bill will dilute RTI. Here's Palki bringing the wholistic view of the bill and the controversy surrounding it.

Gravitas: RTI Amendment bill 2019: all you need to know

As many as 17 opposition members have written to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-passes-right-to-information-amendment-bill-2019-238465">Rajya Sabha</a> Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu raising serious concerns over how the Central government is "hurriedly" <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-passes-triple-talaq-bill-congress-stages-walkout-238448">passing legislation</a> without any scrutiny by the Standing or Select Committees of Parliament.

In the letter dated July 25, the lawmakers have said that it is a fundamental departure from the established practice and healthy traditions of enacting legislations.

"In the 14th Lok Sabha, 60 per cent of Bills were sent for scrutiny to the parliamentary committees. In the 15th Lok Sabha, 71 per cent of Bills were sent for scrutiny. In the 16th Lok Sabha, only 26 per cent of Bills were sent for scrutiny. Now, in the 17th Lok Sabha, 14 Bills have already been passed in the first session. But, none of these Bills has been referred to a Standing Committee or Select Committee for a legislative scrutiny," the members wrote.

They have underlined that public consultation is a long-established practice where parliamentary committees scrutinise Bills, deliberate, engage and work towards improving the content and quality of the legislation.

The MPs recalled that the first session of the 13th, 14th, 15th and 16th Lok Sabha had about 10 sittings each.&nbsp;

"In that time, only a handful of Bills, that had undergone parliamentary scrutiny, were passed," they said.

"The first Session of the 17th Lok Sabha has had 30 sittings. In this period, a dubious record has been set up: 14 Bills have been passed and none has been scrutinised by any Parliamentary Committee. Further, 11 more Bills have been listed for introduction, consideration and passing," the letter read.

Recalling an incident, the MPs wrote, "The Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was laid on the table of Rajya Sabha at 5.01 pm on Friday, July 19. It was then listed for discussion in the house for the next working day, i.e., July 22. Members were not given sufficient time to file notices of amendments to the Bill."

"Later, on the morning of July 22, the members were verbally informed at the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) meeting that the notice to amendments to the Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Bill can be filed till 12 noon. This is a violation of Rule 95 of the 'Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Council of States' which entitles the members to have at least one day's (working) time to file amendment notices," they added.

The members said that once the Bill was taken up for consideration and passing, the Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha Harivansh invoked Rule 266.

"Rule 266 is clear. It may be invoked in case of 'matters not specifically provided for' in the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business. In this case, however, Rule 95 is explicit in its provisions," they said.

The members have demanded that short duration discussions should be held under Rule 176 in the Upper House, underlining that it allows them to raise matters of urgent public importance.

"There is a long-standing convention to have one short duration discussion each week. In the four weeks of the Budget session, only two short-duration discussions have been allowed," they said.

The members further urged Naidu to ensure that the voice of the opposition is not "smothered" in the Rajya Sabha.

"While we understand our responsibility and the need to enact legislation, any attempt by the government to undermine the privileges of members, the rules and established conventions will diminish the role of the council of states as envisaged by our founding fathers," the MPs stated.

Ghulam Nabi Azad and Anand Sharma (Congress), Derek O`Brien (TMC), Ram Gopal Yadav (SP), Majeed Memon (NCP), Manoj Jha (RJD), Vaiko (MDMK), and Sanjay Singh (AAP) are among the 17 MPs, who wrote the letter to the Rajya Sabha Chairman.&nbsp;

As many as 17 opposition members have written to Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu raising serious concerns over how the Central government is "hurriedly" passing legislation without any scrutiny by the Standing or Select Committees of Parliament.

As many as 17 opposition members have written to Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu raising serious concerns over how the Central government is "hurriedly" passing legislation without any scrutiny by the Standing or Select Committees of Parliament. In the letter dated July 25, the lawmakers have said that it is a fundamental departure from the established practice and healthy traditions of enacting legislations. "In the 14th Lok Sabha, 60 per cent of Bills were sent for scrutiny to the parliamentary committees. In the 15th Lok Sabha, 71 per cent of Bills were sent for scrutiny. In the 16th Lok Sabha, only 26 per cent of Bills were sent for scrutiny. Now, in the 17th Lok Sabha, 14 Bills have already been passed in the first session. But, none of these Bills has been referred to a Standing Committee or Select Committee for a legislative scrutiny," the members wrote. They have underlined that public consultation is a long-established practice where parliamentary committees scrutinise Bills, deliberate, engage and work towards improving the content and quality of the legislation. The MPs recalled that the first session of the 13th, 14th, 15th and 16th Lok Sabha had about 10 sittings each. "In that time, only a handful of Bills, that had undergone parliamentary scrutiny, were passed," they said. "The first Session of the 17th Lok Sabha has had 30 sittings. In this period, a dubious record has been set up: 14 Bills have been passed and none has been scrutinised by any Parliamentary Committee. Further, 11 more Bills have been listed for introduction, consideration and passing," the letter read. Recalling an incident, the MPs wrote, "The Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was laid on the table of Rajya Sabha at 5.01 pm on Friday, July 19. It was then listed for discussion in the house for the next working day, i.e., July 22. Members were not given sufficient time to file notices of amendments to the Bill." "Later, on the morning of July 22, the members were verbally informed at the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) meeting that the notice to amendments to the Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Bill can be filed till 12 noon. This is a violation of Rule 95 of the 'Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Council of States' which entitles the members to have at least one day's (working) time to file amendment notices," they added. The members said that once the Bill was taken up for consideration and passing, the Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha Harivansh invoked Rule 266. "Rule 266 is clear. It may be invoked in case of 'matters not specifically provided for' in the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business. In this case, however, Rule 95 is explicit in its provisions," they said. The members have demanded that short duration discussions should be held under Rule 176 in the Upper House, underlining that it allows them to raise matters of urgent public importance. "There is a long-standing convention to have one short duration discussion each week. In the four weeks of the Budget session, only two short-duration discussions have been allowed," they said. The members further urged Naidu to ensure that the voice of the opposition is not "smothered" in the Rajya Sabha. "While we understand our responsibility and the need to enact legislation, any attempt by the government to undermine the privileges of members, the rules and established conventions will diminish the role of the council of states as envisaged by our founding fathers," the MPs stated. Ghulam Nabi Azad and Anand Sharma (Congress), Derek O`Brien (TMC), Ram Gopal Yadav (SP), Majeed Memon (NCP), Manoj Jha (RJD), Vaiko (MDMK), and Sanjay Singh (AAP) are among the 17 MPs, who wrote the letter to the Rajya Sabha Chairman.

17 Opposition MPs express concern over passing Bills without scrutiny, write to Rajya Sabha Chairman

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-watch-government-introduces-triple-talaq-bill-229372">Triple Talaq Bill</a> was taken up for consideration and passage in the Lok Sabha on Thursday with<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-parties-clash-as-ravi-shankar-prasad-introduces-triple-talaq-bill-in-lok-sabha-229183"> Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad</a> urging the House to pass it unanimously as it was a matter of "justice, respect and dignity of women" and not of politics and religion.

Prasad said that twenty Muslim countries had laws to regulate instant triple talaq and why should a secular country like India not have it.

The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2019, seeks to replace an ordinance brought earlier by the government.

Watch: What is the Triple Talaq Bill?

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Prasad said the Bill has safeguards that a complaint can be filed by a woman and her relatives, there was a scope of compromise and bail can be given by a magistrate after hearing the complainant woman.

He said 345 cases have been reported in the media since the Supreme Court held triple talaq unconstitutional.

Citing instances, he said instant triple talaq was being given on flimsy grounds.

"Should they (Muslim women) hang the Supreme Court verdict in their homes?" he asked.

Prasad urged the members to not look at the Bill from a political prism."It is a matter of justice and humanity. It is not of politics or religion but of justice, respect and dignity of women," he said.&nbsp;

The Triple Talaq Bill was taken up for consideration and passage in the Lok Sabha on Thursday with Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad urging the House to pass it unanimously as it was a matter of "justice, respect and dignity of women" and not of politics and religion.

The Triple Talaq Bill was taken up for consideration and passage in the Lok Sabha on Thursday with Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad urging the House to pass it unanimously as it was a matter of "justice, respect and dignity of women" and not of politics and religion. Prasad said that twenty Muslim countries had laws to regulate instant triple talaq and why should a secular country like India not have it. The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2019, seeks to replace an ordinance brought earlier by the government. Watch: What is the Triple Talaq Bill? × Prasad said the Bill has safeguards that a complaint can be filed by a woman and her relatives, there was a scope of compromise and bail can be given by a magistrate after hearing the complainant woman. He said 345 cases have been reported in the media since the Supreme Court held triple talaq unconstitutional. Citing instances, he said instant triple talaq was being given on flimsy grounds. "Should they (Muslim women) hang the Supreme Court verdict in their homes?" he asked. Prasad urged the members to not look at the Bill from a political prism."It is a matter of justice and humanity. It is not of politics or religion but of justice, respect and dignity of women," he said.

Lok Sabha takes up discussion on Triple Talaq Bill; Ravi Shankar Prasad says it is for dignity of women

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-penalty-to-child-rapists-president-ram-nath-kovind-promulgates-the-ordinance-to-amend-pocso-act-131985">Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2019</a> was passed in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-for-raping-children-what-the-ordinance-says-131971">POCSO (Amendment) Bill </a>will make punishment more stringent for committing sexual crimes against children including the death penalty.

The amendments also provide for levy of fines and imprisonment to curb child pornography.

During the debates on the Bill in the Upper House, TMC MP Derek O`Brien said that he was sexually molested in his childhood while he was travelling on a bus.&nbsp;

"As a 13-year-old, after tennis practice, I boarded a crowded bus in short pants and a T-shirt. I was sexually molested, it was reason enough for an unknown man to ejaculate at shorts of this boy," he said.

"I did not speak about it, till I brought it up once much later in my life with my parents. We need to use this forum to reach out to people. The more people talk about it, the more children will be saved. Let`s work towards the prevention of this heinous crime," Brien said.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, the Union Cabinet had approved the Amendment in the POCSO Act 2012.

According to the Union Cabinet, the amendment is expected to discourage the trend of child sexual abuse by acting as a deterrent due to strong penal provisions incorporated in the Act.

"It intends to protect the interest of vulnerable children in times of distress and ensures their safety and dignity. The amendment is aimed to establish clarity regarding the aspects of child abuse and punishment thereof," it added.

The amendment in Section-2, Section-4, Section-5, Section-6, Section-9, Section-14, Section-15, Section-34, Section-42 and Section-45 of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO)Act, 2012, is made to address the aspects of child sexual abuse in appropriate manner.

The government in its statement had said that the modification is made to address the need for stringent measures required to deter the rising trend of child sex abuse in the country on one hand and to address the menace of relatively new kind of crimes on the other hand.

The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was passed in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. The POCSO (Amendment) Bill will make punishment more stringent for committing sexual crimes against children including the death penalty.

The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was passed in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. The POCSO (Amendment) Bill will make punishment more stringent for committing sexual crimes against children including the death penalty. The amendments also provide for levy of fines and imprisonment to curb child pornography. During the debates on the Bill in the Upper House, TMC MP Derek O`Brien said that he was sexually molested in his childhood while he was travelling on a bus. "As a 13-year-old, after tennis practice, I boarded a crowded bus in short pants and a T-shirt. I was sexually molested, it was reason enough for an unknown man to ejaculate at shorts of this boy," he said. "I did not speak about it, till I brought it up once much later in my life with my parents. We need to use this forum to reach out to people. The more people talk about it, the more children will be saved. Let`s work towards the prevention of this heinous crime," Brien said. Earlier this month, the Union Cabinet had approved the Amendment in the POCSO Act 2012. According to the Union Cabinet, the amendment is expected to discourage the trend of child sexual abuse by acting as a deterrent due to strong penal provisions incorporated in the Act. "It intends to protect the interest of vulnerable children in times of distress and ensures their safety and dignity. The amendment is aimed to establish clarity regarding the aspects of child abuse and punishment thereof," it added. The amendment in Section-2, Section-4, Section-5, Section-6, Section-9, Section-14, Section-15, Section-34, Section-42 and Section-45 of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO)Act, 2012, is made to address the aspects of child sexual abuse in appropriate manner. The government in its statement had said that the modification is made to address the need for stringent measures required to deter the rising trend of child sex abuse in the country on one hand and to address the menace of relatively new kind of crimes on the other hand.

Rajya Sabha passes POCSO (Amendment) Bill, 2019

The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday after a heated debate.&nbsp;

During a discussion on the Bill, Home Minister Amit Shah said tough laws were required to end terrorism and asserted that the amendment does not encroach on powers of states.

Replying to a spirited debate on the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Bill, 2019 in the Lok Sabha, Shah said the BJP-led government will never misuse its provisions.

Congress and several opposition parties staged a walkout after the minister's reply demanding that the Bill be sent to a standing committee.&nbsp;

Shah said the BJP-led government had only brought an amendment to the law which was enacted by Congress and whose provisions were later made stringent.

Shah said what Congress governments did "was right and what the BJP-led government is doing is also right".&nbsp;

"The law was enacted in 1967 by a Congress government and amendments made to it in 2004, 2008 and 2013 when Congress was in power. Who made the law stringent? What you did was right, what we are doing is also right," he said.

He asked opposition members about their concerns when the Congress had made changes to the law to make it stringent.

He said Congress member Manish Tewari had asked what was the need for tough laws and that terror-related problems were solved through political dialogue.

"There is a need for tough laws to end terrorism," he said.&nbsp;

Referring to the provisions of the Bill that allow an individual to be designated as a terrorist, he said that terrorists often floats new organisations if a ban is imposed.

Shah also said that the BJP-led government was against "urban Maoism".

"In this country, a lot of people involved in social work are working respectably, the police is not fond of catching them, but we don't have any sympathy for those who work for Urban Maoism," the Home Minister said.

"We have no sympathy for those who promote Maoism under an ideological shield," he said.

The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday after a heated debate. During a discussion on the Bill, Home Minister Amit Shah said tough laws were required to end terrorism and asserted that the amendment does not encroach on powers of states.

The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday after a heated debate. During a discussion on the Bill, Home Minister Amit Shah said tough laws were required to end terrorism and asserted that the amendment does not encroach on powers of states. Replying to a spirited debate on the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Bill, 2019 in the Lok Sabha, Shah said the BJP-led government will never misuse its provisions. Congress and several opposition parties staged a walkout after the minister's reply demanding that the Bill be sent to a standing committee. Shah said the BJP-led government had only brought an amendment to the law which was enacted by Congress and whose provisions were later made stringent. Shah said what Congress governments did "was right and what the BJP-led government is doing is also right". "The law was enacted in 1967 by a Congress government and amendments made to it in 2004, 2008 and 2013 when Congress was in power. Who made the law stringent? What you did was right, what we are doing is also right," he said. He asked opposition members about their concerns when the Congress had made changes to the law to make it stringent. He said Congress member Manish Tewari had asked what was the need for tough laws and that terror-related problems were solved through political dialogue. "There is a need for tough laws to end terrorism," he said. Referring to the provisions of the Bill that allow an individual to be designated as a terrorist, he said that terrorists often floats new organisations if a ban is imposed. Shah also said that the BJP-led government was against "urban Maoism". "In this country, a lot of people involved in social work are working respectably, the police is not fond of catching them, but we don't have any sympathy for those who work for Urban Maoism," the Home Minister said. "We have no sympathy for those who promote Maoism under an ideological shield," he said.

Lok Sabha passes Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Bill

Allahabad High Court has issued a notice to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in connection with a petition challenging his election from Varanasi constituency in 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

The petition was filed by Tej Bahadur, ex-BSF jawan and SP candidate, whose nomination to contest from Varanasi was rejected by the Election Commission.

The court will hear the case on August 21. On May 1, Yadav's candidature was rejected by the returning officer after he failed to submit a certificate on whether or not he was dismissed from the service for corruption or disloyalty to the government.

In his petition, Yadav alleged that his nomination papers were "wrongly" rejected and urged the court to declare Modi's election null and void as a member of Parliament from Varanasi On May 9, the apex court had dismissed Yadav's plea challenging the rejection of his nomination by the Election Commission from Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had said, "We don`t find any merit to entertain this petition.

"Samajwadi Party had fielded Yadav as its candidate against Prime Minister Modi in Varanasi on April 29. Prior to that, he was in the fray as an independent candidate.&nbsp;

Allahabad High Court has issued a notice to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in connection with a petition challenging his election from Varanasi constituency in 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

Allahabad High Court has issued a notice to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in connection with a petition challenging his election from Varanasi constituency in 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The petition was filed by Tej Bahadur, ex-BSF jawan and SP candidate, whose nomination to contest from Varanasi was rejected by the Election Commission. The court will hear the case on August 21. On May 1, Yadav's candidature was rejected by the returning officer after he failed to submit a certificate on whether or not he was dismissed from the service for corruption or disloyalty to the government. In his petition, Yadav alleged that his nomination papers were "wrongly" rejected and urged the court to declare Modi's election null and void as a member of Parliament from Varanasi On May 9, the apex court had dismissed Yadav's plea challenging the rejection of his nomination by the Election Commission from Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had said, "We don`t find any merit to entertain this petition. "Samajwadi Party had fielded Yadav as its candidate against Prime Minister Modi in Varanasi on April 29. Prior to that, he was in the fray as an independent candidate.

Allahabad High Court issues notice to PM Narendra Modi on plea challenging his election to Lok Sabha

The Lok Sabha on Monday has passed the National Investigation Agency (NIA) (Amendment) Bill, 2019.

Speaker Om Birla said the bill had been passed with 278 members voting in its favour and six against it.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said, ''Repealing POTA (Prevention of Terrorism Act) was not a right step, the number of terrorists incidents increased so much between 2004-2008 that the then UPA government had to bring in NIA. It was after Mumbai attack that it was decided to form NIA.''

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Home Minister Amit Shah in Lok Sabha, today: Repealing POTA (Prevention of Terrorism Act) wasn't a right step, number of terrorists incidents increased so much between 2004-2008 that the then UPA govt had to bring in NIA. It was after Mumbai attack that it was decided to form NIA <a href="https://t.co/EGtpH7v4Uw">pic.twitter.com/EGtpH7v4Uw</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1150709494739066881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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During the discussion in Lok Sabha regarding NIA Bill, Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy said that terrorism is a dangerous problem and senior leaders have been victims and that the terrorists outside India had been making efforts to target India.

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, Reddy further added.

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.

The NIA was set up in 2009 in the wake of the Mumbai terror attack which had claimed 166 lives.&nbsp;

The Lok Sabha on Monday has passed the National Investigation Agency (NIA) (Amendment) Bill, 2019. Speaker Om Birla said the bill had been passed with 278 members voting in its favour and six against it.

The Lok Sabha on Monday has passed the National Investigation Agency (NIA) (Amendment) Bill, 2019. Speaker Om Birla said the bill had been passed with 278 members voting in its favour and six against it. Union Home Minister Amit Shah said, ''Repealing POTA (Prevention of Terrorism Act) was not a right step, the number of terrorists incidents increased so much between 2004-2008 that the then UPA government had to bring in NIA. It was after Mumbai attack that it was decided to form NIA.'' Home Minister Amit Shah in Lok Sabha, today: Repealing POTA (Prevention of Terrorism Act) wasn't a right step, number of terrorists incidents increased so much between 2004-2008 that the then UPA govt had to bring in NIA. It was after Mumbai attack that it was decided to form NIA pic.twitter.com/EGtpH7v4Uw — ANI (@ANI) July 15, 2019 × During the discussion in Lok Sabha regarding NIA Bill, Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy said that terrorism is a dangerous problem and senior leaders have been victims and that the terrorists outside India had been making efforts to target India. 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, Reddy further added. 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. The NIA was set up in 2009 in the wake of the Mumbai terror attack which had claimed 166 lives.

Lok Sabha passes National Investigation Agency (Amendment) Bill

Congress MPs on Monday submitted an adjournment motion notice in Lok Sabha over 'pension of disabled Army personnel'. 
 
An 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.

The disability pension till now was not taxed by the government but recently, the government decided to tax it leading to opposition from the veterans community. 
 
On July 2, the Army headquarters clarified that though it is concerned for all personnel who are invalidated out of service in combat conditions or otherwise, and need additional support but "discourages those who seek financial gains through their disabilities."

Over the years broad-banding and compensation awarded for disability with income tax exemption has led to a rise in personnel seeking disability, even for lifestyle diseases. The trend is worrisome that too when the security challenges to the nation are on the rise," the Army headquarters stated. 
 
The sources said the Army has immense respect for the officers and jawans who suffer disability in line of action and they deserve much more than they are getting in terms of financial gains. 
 
The Army has also stated that higher compensation awarded for disability with tax exemption has over the years led to a rise in personnel seeking disability even for lifestyle diseases. At a time when the Army is trying to fight the trend of an increasing number of its personnel seeking disability pensions, it had emerged that more than 2,000 officers including more than 85 Brigadiers and Major Generals have sought disability pension for diseases including diabetes and high blood pressure in the last two years. 
 
In 2018, 52 officers above the rank of Brigadier and 977 officers of the rank of Colonel and below have sought disability pensions, sources said.&nbsp;

Congress MPs on Monday submitted an adjournment motion notice in Lok Sabha over 'pension of disabled Army personnel'. An 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.

Congress MPs on Monday submitted an adjournment motion notice in Lok Sabha over 'pension of disabled Army personnel'. An 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. The disability pension till now was not taxed by the government but recently, the government decided to tax it leading to opposition from the veterans community. On July 2, the Army headquarters clarified that though it is concerned for all personnel who are invalidated out of service in combat conditions or otherwise, and need additional support but "discourages those who seek financial gains through their disabilities." Over the years broad-banding and compensation awarded for disability with income tax exemption has led to a rise in personnel seeking disability, even for lifestyle diseases. The trend is worrisome that too when the security challenges to the nation are on the rise," the Army headquarters stated. The sources said the Army has immense respect for the officers and jawans who suffer disability in line of action and they deserve much more than they are getting in terms of financial gains. The Army has also stated that higher compensation awarded for disability with tax exemption has over the years led to a rise in personnel seeking disability even for lifestyle diseases. At a time when the Army is trying to fight the trend of an increasing number of its personnel seeking disability pensions, it had emerged that more than 2,000 officers including more than 85 Brigadiers and Major Generals have sought disability pension for diseases including diabetes and high blood pressure in the last two years. In 2018, 52 officers above the rank of Brigadier and 977 officers of the rank of Colonel and below have sought disability pensions, sources said.

Congress submits adjournment motion notice in Lok Sabha over 'pension of disabled Army personnel'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-allows-nawaz-sharifs-personal-physician-to-visit-him-in-jail-234746">Pakistan</a> has not acknowledged the presence of any missing Indian defence personnel or Prisoners of War (PoWs) in its custody so far, despite consistent efforts from India to ensure their release and repatriation from the neighbouring country, the government said on Wednesday.

In a written reply in Lok Sabha to a question on the number of Indian PoWs during the Indo-Pakistan wars of 1965 and 1971, the government said that as per available information, around 83 missing Indian defence personnel, including PoWs, are believed to be in Pakistan's custody.

"Besides, as per available information, there are 64 Indian and believed-to-be Indian civilian prisoners and 209 Indian and believed-to-be Indian fishermen in Pakistan's custody. Pakistan has, on 1 July 2019, acknowledged the custody of 52 civilian prisoners and 209 fishermen," Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said.

He also said that the government has secured the release and repatriation of 2,110 Indian prisoners, including fishermen, from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-receive-first-trench-of-international-monetary-fund-bailout-package-234462">Pakistan</a>'s custody since 2014.

Watch: Is Pakistan no country for free press?

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"This includes release and repatriation of 362 Indian prisoners, including fishermen, this year, so far," the Union Minister stated.

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MoS MEA, V Muraleedharan's reply in Lok Sabha to a question on 'number of Indian Prisoners of War (PoW) taken during Indo-Pak wars of 1965 &amp; 1971, who are still imprisoned in Pakistan': 83 missing Indian defence personnel, including PoW, are believed to be in Pakistan’s custody. <a href="https://t.co/qeCPidaeda">https://t.co/qeCPidaeda</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1149112150415351808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In October 2017, the then External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had suggested to the High Commissioner of Pakistan that the two sides could work to resolve humanitarian issues related to elderly, women and mentally unsound prisoners in each other's custody and consider their early release and repatriation.

"It was, inter alia, proposed to revive the mechanism of Joint Judicial Committee and that a team of Indian medical experts could be allowed to visit the mentally unsound prisoners with a view to facilitate their nationality verification and subsequent repatriation. Pakistan responded positively on March 7, 2018," Muraleedharan said.

He informed the House that although New Delhi has already shared the details of the medical experts'&nbsp;team and the re-constituted Joint Judicial Committee with Pakistan with the request to organise their visit, Islamabad has not responded so far.

Replying to a question on MEA officials facing corruption charges, Muraleedharan informed the House that 24 officials in the ministry including its missions/posts abroad are currently facing disciplinary proceedings, including one staff on contract at the local level.

"As the officials of the Ministry of External Affairs represent the country abroad, the Ministry attaches utmost importance to probity and follows the policy of zero tolerance towards cases involving corruption and violation of conduct rules of the government," he said.

The minister said that investigations are carried on priority and a suitable penalty is imposed if the charges are proved."Ministry also strictly enforces preventive vigilance by way of issuing and reiterating extant rules and guidelines, conducting periodic inspections in missions/posts abroad and extending full cooperation to investigating agencies as and when required," Muraleedharan stated.

Pakistan has not acknowledged the presence of any missing Indian defence personnel or Prisoners of War (PoWs) in its custody so far, despite consistent efforts from India to ensure their release and repatriation from the neighbouring country, the government said on Wednesday.

Pakistan has not acknowledged the presence of any missing Indian defence personnel or Prisoners of War (PoWs) in its custody so far, despite consistent efforts from India to ensure their release and repatriation from the neighbouring country, the government said on Wednesday. In a written reply in Lok Sabha to a question on the number of Indian PoWs during the Indo-Pakistan wars of 1965 and 1971, the government said that as per available information, around 83 missing Indian defence personnel, including PoWs, are believed to be in Pakistan's custody. "Besides, as per available information, there are 64 Indian and believed-to-be Indian civilian prisoners and 209 Indian and believed-to-be Indian fishermen in Pakistan's custody. Pakistan has, on 1 July 2019, acknowledged the custody of 52 civilian prisoners and 209 fishermen," Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said. He also said that the government has secured the release and repatriation of 2,110 Indian prisoners, including fishermen, from Pakistan's custody since 2014. Watch: Is Pakistan no country for free press? "This includes release and repatriation of 362 Indian prisoners, including fishermen, this year, so far," the Union Minister stated. MoS MEA, V Muraleedharan's reply in Lok Sabha to a question on 'number of Indian Prisoners of War (PoW) taken during Indo-Pak wars of 1965 & 1971, who are still imprisoned in Pakistan': 83 missing Indian defence personnel, including PoW, are believed to be in Pakistan’s custody. https://t.co/qeCPidaeda — ANI (@ANI) July 11, 2019 × In October 2017, the then External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had suggested to the High Commissioner of Pakistan that the two sides could work to resolve humanitarian issues related to elderly, women and mentally unsound prisoners in each other's custody and consider their early release and repatriation. "It was, inter alia, proposed to revive the mechanism of Joint Judicial Committee and that a team of Indian medical experts could be allowed to visit the mentally unsound prisoners with a view to facilitate their nationality verification and subsequent repatriation. Pakistan responded positively on March 7, 2018," Muraleedharan said. He informed the House that although New Delhi has already shared the details of the medical experts' team and the re-constituted Joint Judicial Committee with Pakistan with the request to organise their visit, Islamabad has not responded so far. Replying to a question on MEA officials facing corruption charges, Muraleedharan informed the House that 24 officials in the ministry including its missions/posts abroad are currently facing disciplinary proceedings, including one staff on contract at the local level. "As the officials of the Ministry of External Affairs represent the country abroad, the Ministry attaches utmost importance to probity and follows the policy of zero tolerance towards cases involving corruption and violation of conduct rules of the government," he said. The minister said that investigations are carried on priority and a suitable penalty is imposed if the charges are proved."Ministry also strictly enforces preventive vigilance by way of issuing and reiterating extant rules and guidelines, conducting periodic inspections in missions/posts abroad and extending full cooperation to investigating agencies as and when required," Muraleedharan stated.

Pakistan hasn't acknowledged presence of Indian war prisoners, defence personnel in its custody: Government in Lok Sabha

The Congress on Tuesday rejected reports, that they have demanded a seat in the front row of the Lok Sabha for their party chief Rahul Gandhi.

Congress leader in Lok Sabha Adheer Ranjan Chowdhury termed the "speculations" as wrong.

"Never demanded front row seat for Rahul. He has been allotted a seat in the second row and he will be sitting there. I can say it with conviction (mai ye bat dawe se keh sakta hun)," he said.

The denial by the Congress party came after wide speculations in media about the party demanding front row seat for Rahul Gandhi, who is a fourth term MP in Lok Sabha.

The Congress on Tuesday rejected reports, that they have demanded a seat in the front row of the Lok Sabha for their party chief Rahul Gandhi. Congress leader in Lok Sabha Adheer Ranjan Chowdhury termed the "speculations" as wrong.

The Congress on Tuesday rejected reports, that they have demanded a seat in the front row of the Lok Sabha for their party chief Rahul Gandhi. Congress leader in Lok Sabha Adheer Ranjan Chowdhury termed the "speculations" as wrong. "Never demanded front row seat for Rahul. He has been allotted a seat in the second row and he will be sitting there. I can say it with conviction (mai ye bat dawe se keh sakta hun)," he said. The denial by the Congress party came after wide speculations in media about the party demanding front row seat for Rahul Gandhi, who is a fourth term MP in Lok Sabha.

Congress denies reports of demanding front row seat for Rahul Gandhi in Lok Sabha

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday took oath as a member of the Upper House after winning in by-polls from Gujarat.

On Friday, Jaishankar and party colleague Jugal Ji Thakor were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eam-s-jaishankar-another-candidate-win-rajya-sabha-polls-in-gujarat-bjp-233401">declared winners in the by-polls</a> conducted for two Rajya Sabha seats in the state.

The two seats fell vacant following the resignation of Home Minister Amit Shah and Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani, who were elected to Lok Sabha in the general elections.

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External Affairs Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> takes oath as Rajya Sabha MP <a href="https://t.co/jLHSxnEVu2">https://t.co/jLHSxnEVu2</a> via <a href="https://twitter.com/YouTube?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YouTube</a>
— Rajya Sabha TV (@rajyasabhatv) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajyasabhatv/status/1148107904978808832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Union Minister bagged 104 votes, while his Congress rival Gaurav Pandya got 70 votes.

Speaking at the press conference, Jaishankar thanked legislators for their support to him.

"I want to thank everyone for the support. Like I said during my nomination, External Affairs Minister and Gujarat have a natural partnership. There is no such country where there is no Gujarati. If the prestige of India has increased internationally, Gujarat has a role in it," Jaishankar said.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday took oath as a member of the Upper House after winning in by-polls from Gujarat. On Friday, Jaishankar and party colleague Jugal Ji Thakor were declared winners in the by-polls conducted for two Rajya Sabha seats in the state.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday took oath as a member of the Upper House after winning in by-polls from Gujarat. On Friday, Jaishankar and party colleague Jugal Ji Thakor were declared winners in the by-polls conducted for two Rajya Sabha seats in the state. The two seats fell vacant following the resignation of Home Minister Amit Shah and Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani, who were elected to Lok Sabha in the general elections. External Affairs Minister @DrSJaishankar takes oath as Rajya Sabha MP https://t.co/jLHSxnEVu2 via @YouTube — Rajya Sabha TV (@rajyasabhatv) July 8, 2019 × The Union Minister bagged 104 votes, while his Congress rival Gaurav Pandya got 70 votes. Speaking at the press conference, Jaishankar thanked legislators for their support to him. "I want to thank everyone for the support. Like I said during my nomination, External Affairs Minister and Gujarat have a natural partnership. There is no such country where there is no Gujarati. If the prestige of India has increased internationally, Gujarat has a role in it," Jaishankar said.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar takes oath as Rajya Sabha member

The Congress government on Monday vehemently opposed the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2019 in the Lok Sabha after it was introduced by Culture Minister Prahlad Singh Patel.

The bill seeks to remove the Congress president as a permanent member in a trust that runs the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial to make the body "apolitical".

While moving the bill in the Parliament, Patel stated that it seeks to "delete" the mention of 'President of the Indian National Congress'&nbsp;as a trustee of the Trust.

"The bill was passed in the 16th Lok Sabha but could not be passed in the Rajya Sabha. Today, we are again moving this bill and will answer to every questioned posed to us," he said.

Meanwhile, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor urged the Centre not to take such step as it would betray the history since his party has been associated with the trust for so long.

The Bill, which amends the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Act, 1951, was approved by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year in December.

It was approved to ensure representation of the Opposition Party in the Trust and empower the government to terminate and replace a Trustee to participate in the functioning of the Trust.

The decisions aim to suitably amend the aforesaid act so as to secure representation as Trustees, "the Leader of Opposition recognized as such in the House of the People, or where there is no such Leader of Opposition, then the Leader of the single largest Opposition Party in the House".

In the existing Act, there is a provision for the representation of a single national political party.

Deletion of the party-specific member from the Trust will make it apolitical.

The proposed amendment ensures representation of the Opposition Party in the Trust and will empower the government to terminate and replace a Trustee to participate in the functioning of the Trust or for any other reason.

The Congress government on Monday vehemently opposed the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2019 in the Lok Sabha after it was introduced by Culture Minister Prahlad Singh Patel.

The Congress government on Monday vehemently opposed the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2019 in the Lok Sabha after it was introduced by Culture Minister Prahlad Singh Patel. The bill seeks to remove the Congress president as a permanent member in a trust that runs the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial to make the body "apolitical". While moving the bill in the Parliament, Patel stated that it seeks to "delete" the mention of 'President of the Indian National Congress' as a trustee of the Trust. "The bill was passed in the 16th Lok Sabha but could not be passed in the Rajya Sabha. Today, we are again moving this bill and will answer to every questioned posed to us," he said. Meanwhile, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor urged the Centre not to take such step as it would betray the history since his party has been associated with the trust for so long. The Bill, which amends the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Act, 1951, was approved by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year in December. It was approved to ensure representation of the Opposition Party in the Trust and empower the government to terminate and replace a Trustee to participate in the functioning of the Trust. The decisions aim to suitably amend the aforesaid act so as to secure representation as Trustees, "the Leader of Opposition recognized as such in the House of the People, or where there is no such Leader of Opposition, then the Leader of the single largest Opposition Party in the House". In the existing Act, there is a provision for the representation of a single national political party. Deletion of the party-specific member from the Trust will make it apolitical. The proposed amendment ensures representation of the Opposition Party in the Trust and will empower the government to terminate and replace a Trustee to participate in the functioning of the Trust or for any other reason.

Jallianwala Bagh Amendment Bill introduced in Lok Sabha, Congress opposes

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday refused to grant an urgent hearing on a petition seeking a direction to the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to appoint a Leader of Opposition in the 17th Lok Sabha.

While asserting that the matter can be heard after the court vacation, a bench of Justices Jyoti Singh and Manoj Kumar Ohri posted the matter for hearing to July 8.

"What is the urgency in the matter? It is a vacation Bench. You are asking for a policy in place for the appointment of the leader of opposition in future. We find there is no urgency in the matter," the bench said.&nbsp;

A petition in this regard was filed by two advocates -- Manmohan Singh Narula and Susmita Kumari -- contending that the denial of leadership to the second largest party in Parliament "sets a wrong precedent and dilutes democracy."Since the Leader of Opposition is a "statutory post" and the Speaker is performing a "statutory duty" in recognising the Leader of Opposition, he or she cannot exercise any discretion in the matter, the petition stated.

"There is no room for ifs and buts, under the Salaries and Allowances of Leaders of Opposition in Parliament Act, 1977, the duty of the Speaker is to recognise the eligible person," the petitioner submitted.

He said that recognising a member of the house as the Leader of Opposition is not a political or arithmetical decision but a statutory decision.&nbsp;

"The Speaker has to merely ascertain whether the party claiming this post is the largest party in the opposition," the petition stated. On June 18, senior Congress leader and West Bengal MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury was named by the Congress as its leader in the Lok Sabha. The newly-appointed Speaker Om Birla has, however, not appointed him as the Leader of Opposition yet.&nbsp;

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday refused to grant an urgent hearing on a petition seeking a direction to the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to appoint a Leader of Opposition in the 17th Lok Sabha.

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday refused to grant an urgent hearing on a petition seeking a direction to the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to appoint a Leader of Opposition in the 17th Lok Sabha. While asserting that the matter can be heard after the court vacation, a bench of Justices Jyoti Singh and Manoj Kumar Ohri posted the matter for hearing to July 8. "What is the urgency in the matter? It is a vacation Bench. You are asking for a policy in place for the appointment of the leader of opposition in future. We find there is no urgency in the matter," the bench said. A petition in this regard was filed by two advocates -- Manmohan Singh Narula and Susmita Kumari -- contending that the denial of leadership to the second largest party in Parliament "sets a wrong precedent and dilutes democracy."Since the Leader of Opposition is a "statutory post" and the Speaker is performing a "statutory duty" in recognising the Leader of Opposition, he or she cannot exercise any discretion in the matter, the petition stated. "There is no room for ifs and buts, under the Salaries and Allowances of Leaders of Opposition in Parliament Act, 1977, the duty of the Speaker is to recognise the eligible person," the petitioner submitted. He said that recognising a member of the house as the Leader of Opposition is not a political or arithmetical decision but a statutory decision. "The Speaker has to merely ascertain whether the party claiming this post is the largest party in the opposition," the petition stated. On June 18, senior Congress leader and West Bengal MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury was named by the Congress as its leader in the Lok Sabha. The newly-appointed Speaker Om Birla has, however, not appointed him as the Leader of Opposition yet.

Delhi high court defers hearing of plea seeking appointment of leader of opposition in Lok Sabha

Watch India Watch, 25th June 2019. To know more watch the video

India Watch, 25th June 2019

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first speech in Parliament after his party returned to power with a massive majority, was as much about Congress roasting as showcasing the achievements of his government.

India Watch: PM Modi addresses the lower house

India Watch, 21st June 2019

The Triple Talaq Bill was tabled in the Lok Sabha on Friday by Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, amid a huge uproar by the opposition parties. A day after President Ram Nath Kovind called for the abolishing the evil traditions of triple talaq, which is prevalent among the Muslim community, the NDA government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi tabled a fresh bill to ban the practice of instant divorce in the Lok Sabha. Watch this video to know more.

India Watch: Government introduces triple talaq Bill

Watch this segment of India Watch to know, What is the triple talaq Bill?

India Watch: What is the triple talaq Bill?

The Triple Talaq Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Friday amid&nbsp;opposition from Congress leader Shashi Tharoor and&nbsp;All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi over criminalising the offence.

The bill was put to vote and 156 members voted for introduction and 74 against it.

The voting was held through paper slips as the new Members of Parliament have not yet been allotted division number that allows them to vote using polling machine.

Speaker Om Birla then allowed Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad to introduce the bill. Earlier he put up a stiff defence of the government move saying the issue was not of religion but of women.

Union Law and Justice Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad introduced the bill and said, ''Rights of Muslim women will be protected. It is about justice &amp; empowerment of women.''

''People have chosen us to make laws. It is our work to make laws. Law is to give justice to the victims of Triple Talaq,'' Prasad added.

Shashi Tharoor opposed the introduction of Triple Talaq Bill and said, ''The bill does nothing to improve the status of Muslim women.''

Asaduddin Owaisi also opposed and said,''&nbsp;Triple Talaq bill is unconstitutional. It's a violation of Constitution's Article 14 &amp; 15. We already have Domestic Violence Act 2005, CrPC Section 125, Muslim Women Marriage Act. If Triple Talaq Bill becomes a law it will be even greater injustice against women.''

Ravi Shankar Prasad on Congress opposing the Bill&nbsp;said,''&nbsp;It was a matter of great distress that Congress chose to oppose the introduction of Triple Talaq Bill. Earlier they had not opposed it, last time they had walked out from Lok Sabha. But today they were siding with the likes of Mr Owaisi who were opposing it.&nbsp;A woman leader like Sonia Gandhi ji is the leader of Congress party, yet Congress party takes an anti-women position in the Lok Sabha, opposing even the introduction of the Bill, I must say it is not only painful but deeply regrettable.''

The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2019 seeks to replace an ordinance by the government in February.

The Triple Talaq Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Friday amid opposition from Congress leader Shashi Tharoor and All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi over criminalising the offence.

The Triple Talaq Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Friday amid opposition from Congress leader Shashi Tharoor and All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi over criminalising the offence. The bill was put to vote and 156 members voted for introduction and 74 against it. The voting was held through paper slips as the new Members of Parliament have not yet been allotted division number that allows them to vote using polling machine. Speaker Om Birla then allowed Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad to introduce the bill. Earlier he put up a stiff defence of the government move saying the issue was not of religion but of women. Union Law and Justice Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad introduced the bill and said, ''Rights of Muslim women will be protected. It is about justice & empowerment of women.'' ''People have chosen us to make laws. It is our work to make laws. Law is to give justice to the victims of Triple Talaq,'' Prasad added. Shashi Tharoor opposed the introduction of Triple Talaq Bill and said, ''The bill does nothing to improve the status of Muslim women.'' Asaduddin Owaisi also opposed and said,'' Triple Talaq bill is unconstitutional. It's a violation of Constitution's Article 14 & 15. We already have Domestic Violence Act 2005, CrPC Section 125, Muslim Women Marriage Act. If Triple Talaq Bill becomes a law it will be even greater injustice against women.'' Ravi Shankar Prasad on Congress opposing the Bill said,'' It was a matter of great distress that Congress chose to oppose the introduction of Triple Talaq Bill. Earlier they had not opposed it, last time they had walked out from Lok Sabha. But today they were siding with the likes of Mr Owaisi who were opposing it. A woman leader like Sonia Gandhi ji is the leader of Congress party, yet Congress party takes an anti-women position in the Lok Sabha, opposing even the introduction of the Bill, I must say it is not only painful but deeply regrettable.'' The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2019 seeks to replace an ordinance by the government in February.

Opposition parties clash as Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad introduces Triple Talaq Bill in Lok Sabha

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