In a development that's sure to raise political temperatures in the biggest democracy of the world, 78 Opposition MPs were suspended from the Parliament of India on Monday (Dec 18). Out of the 78&nbsp;MPs, 11 have been suspended for a day and the for remainder of the winter session for 'unruly behaviour'.

The development has taken place just days after 14 Opposition MPs were suspended. Thirteen of these were from Lok Sabha and one from Rajya Sabha. This means that as Monday, the number of suspended MPs stands at 92. The suspended Opposition MPs include those from Lok Sabha (lower house) as well as Rajya Sabha (upper house).

The 33 suspended MPs from Lok Sabha include&nbsp;Adhir Ranjan Chowdury, the leader of the opposition - Indian National Congress -&nbsp;in the house.

Here is a full list of suspended Lok Sabha MPs as reported by ANI:

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Winter Session | A total of 33 Opposition MPs, including Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, suspended from the Parliament today for the remainder of the Session. <a href="https://t.co/zbUpeMaHmU">pic.twitter.com/zbUpeMaHmU</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1736697768633364985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The Opposition MPs had&nbsp;been protesting&nbsp;and demanding&nbsp;Union Home Minister Amit Shah to give&nbsp;a statement over a recent parliament security breach.

On December 13, two intruders jumped inside the Lok Sabha from viewing galleries carrying smoke bombs and shouting slogans. They were overpowered by the MPs and later arrested. More arrests have been made in this case. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has termed the security breach 'serious' and has expressed the need for an investigation.

Watch | Delhi Police Special Cell leading probe into Indian Parliament Security Breach

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In Lok Sabha, the Opposition MPs resorted to sloganeering, demanding answers from BJP and alleging that the government was running away from its parliamentary obligations. The proceedings had to be adjourned twice.

Situation was somewhat similar in the Rajya Sabha.

Despite the disruptions, Rajya Sabha was able to pass the Government of Union Territories (Amendment) Bill and J&amp;K Reorganisation (Second Amendment) Bill, 2023.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-draft-telecom-bill-tabled-in-lok-sabha-allows-govt-to-take-over-services-over-national-security-670883">India: Draft Telecom Bill tabled in Lok Sabha allows govt to take over services over 'national security'</a>

In Lok Sabha, the Post Office Bill was passed.

<h2>'Heights of tyranny'</h2>

The Opposition, especially the Congress, has reacted sharply to the large number of suspensions and has accused PM Narendra Modi-led government of violating democratic norms.

&nbsp;"All leaders, including me, have been suspended. We have been demanding for days to reinstate our MPs who were suspended earlier and that the Home Minister come to the House and give a statement (on Parliament security breach)." Lok Sabha MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury told news agency ANI

"Today, the government has reached the heights of tyranny."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-high-level-committee-on-one-nation-one-election-to-assess-progress-670843">India: High-level committee on 'One Nation, One Election' to assess progress</a>

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla however, claimed that the MPs were suspended 'to uphold the sanctity of the House.'

(With inputs from agencies)

In a development that's sure to raise political temperatures in the biggest democracy of the world, 78 Opposition MPs were suspended from the Parliament of India on Monday (Dec 18).

In a development that's sure to raise political temperatures in the biggest democracy of the world, 78 Opposition MPs were suspended from the Parliament of India on Monday (Dec 18). Out of the 78 MPs, 11 have been suspended for a day and the for remainder of the winter session for 'unruly behaviour'. The development has taken place just days after 14 Opposition MPs were suspended. Thirteen of these were from Lok Sabha and one from Rajya Sabha. This means that as Monday, the number of suspended MPs stands at 92. The suspended Opposition MPs include those from Lok Sabha (lower house) as well as Rajya Sabha (upper house). The 33 suspended MPs from Lok Sabha include Adhir Ranjan Chowdury, the leader of the opposition - Indian National Congress - in the house. Here is a full list of suspended Lok Sabha MPs as reported by ANI: Winter Session | A total of 33 Opposition MPs, including Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, suspended from the Parliament today for the remainder of the Session. pic.twitter.com/zbUpeMaHmU — ANI (@ANI) December 18, 2023 × The Opposition MPs had been protesting and demanding Union Home Minister Amit Shah to give a statement over a recent parliament security breach. On December 13, two intruders jumped inside the Lok Sabha from viewing galleries carrying smoke bombs and shouting slogans. They were overpowered by the MPs and later arrested. More arrests have been made in this case. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has termed the security breach 'serious' and has expressed the need for an investigation. Watch | Delhi Police Special Cell leading probe into Indian Parliament Security Breach × In Lok Sabha, the Opposition MPs resorted to sloganeering, demanding answers from BJP and alleging that the government was running away from its parliamentary obligations. The proceedings had to be adjourned twice. Situation was somewhat similar in the Rajya Sabha. Despite the disruptions, Rajya Sabha was able to pass the Government of Union Territories (Amendment) Bill and J&K Reorganisation (Second Amendment) Bill, 2023. Also Read | India: Draft Telecom Bill tabled in Lok Sabha allows govt to take over services over 'national security' In Lok Sabha, the Post Office Bill was passed. 'Heights of tyranny' The Opposition, especially the Congress, has reacted sharply to the large number of suspensions and has accused PM Narendra Modi-led government of violating democratic norms. "All leaders, including me, have been suspended. We have been demanding for days to reinstate our MPs who were suspended earlier and that the Home Minister come to the House and give a statement (on Parliament security breach)." Lok Sabha MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury told news agency ANI "Today, the government has reached the heights of tyranny." Also Read | India: High-level committee on 'One Nation, One Election' to assess progress Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla however, claimed that the MPs were suspended 'to uphold the sanctity of the House.' (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Parliament: 78 opposition MPs suspended in a single day of winter session

India's Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Pralhad Joshi has posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) that the government is calling a Special Session of Parliament. The minister said that the special session will have five sittings and will be held between September 18 and 22.

"Special Session of Parliament (13th Session of 17th Lok Sabha and 261st Session of Rajya Sabha) is being called from 18th to 22nd September having 5 sittings. &nbsp;Amid Amrit Kaal looking forward to have fruitful discussions and debate in Parliament,"&nbsp;Joshi posted on X.&nbsp;

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Special Session of Parliament (13th Session of 17th Lok Sabha and 261st Session of Rajya Sabha) is being called from 18th to 22nd September having 5 sittings. Amid Amrit Kaal looking forward to have fruitful discussions and debate in Parliament. <a href="https://t.co/b3PIRngpOs">pic.twitter.com/b3PIRngpOs</a>
— Pralhad Joshi (@JoshiPralhad) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoshiPralhad/status/1697173967889637678?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
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There was no immediate indication or information from the government about the exact agenda of the special session.

The dates of the special session mean that it will be held after G20 Summit which is due to be held on September 9 and 10.

The announcement of the special session has come at a time when the opposition alliance I.N.D.I.A. is going in a huddle in Mumbai. The announcement has also come close on the heels of Indian government's message to Supreme Court of India that it was open to conduct elections in Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. 
 
The Union minister also attached a picture of the old parliament building and the new one, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 28. 
 
The monsoon session of parliament was held in the old parliament building. 
 
The announcement of the Special Session came as a surprise to political circles with the parties gearing up for assembly polls in five states later this year. The winter session of Parliament usually begins in the last week of November.

The Monsoon Session held between July 20 and August 12 was the last session of Parliament of India. During the Monsoon Session, 23 bills were passed by the government. The Opposition parties held protests during the session on number of issues including Manipur violence and even moved a vote of no confidence against the government in vain. 
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India's Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Pralhad Joshi has posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) that the government is calling a Special Session of Parliament.

India's Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Pralhad Joshi has posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) that the government is calling a Special Session of Parliament. The minister said that the special session will have five sittings and will be held between September 18 and 22. "Special Session of Parliament (13th Session of 17th Lok Sabha and 261st Session of Rajya Sabha) is being called from 18th to 22nd September having 5 sittings. Amid Amrit Kaal looking forward to have fruitful discussions and debate in Parliament," Joshi posted on X. Special Session of Parliament (13th Session of 17th Lok Sabha and 261st Session of Rajya Sabha) is being called from 18th to 22nd September having 5 sittings. Amid Amrit Kaal looking forward to have fruitful discussions and debate in Parliament. pic.twitter.com/b3PIRngpOs — Pralhad Joshi (@JoshiPralhad) August 31, 2023 × There was no immediate indication or information from the government about the exact agenda of the special session. The dates of the special session mean that it will be held after G20 Summit which is due to be held on September 9 and 10. The announcement of the special session has come at a time when the opposition alliance I.N.D.I.A. is going in a huddle in Mumbai. The announcement has also come close on the heels of Indian government's message to Supreme Court of India that it was open to conduct elections in Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The Union minister also attached a picture of the old parliament building and the new one, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 28. The monsoon session of parliament was held in the old parliament building. The announcement of the Special Session came as a surprise to political circles with the parties gearing up for assembly polls in five states later this year. The winter session of Parliament usually begins in the last week of November. The Monsoon Session held between July 20 and August 12 was the last session of Parliament of India. During the Monsoon Session, 23 bills were passed by the government. The Opposition parties held protests during the session on number of issues including Manipur violence and even moved a vote of no confidence against the government in vain. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India: Modi government calls five-day Special Session of Parliament from September 18

Indian Parliament's monsoon session that began this week may be cut short after 30 lawmakers tested positive for coronavirus. An urgent meeting of the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) was called by the Lok Sabha Speaker to decide on the issue.

Indian Parliament's monsoon session may be cut short as COVID-19 cases among MPs rise

After a considerable delay due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the 18-day monsoon session of Parliament is all set to kick off on Monday. Moreover, the Question Hour has been done away with, much to the chagrin of the Opposition.

Amid COVID-19 pandemic Indian Parliament resumes

'New Normal' for Indian Parliament: Session begins amid COVID-19 pandemic

Indian Parliament resumes: COVID-19 test mandatory for all MP's & staff

Bangladeshi envoy to India, Muhammad Imran has paid his homage to former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee calling him a "good friend" of Bangladesh and "supportive" to the cause.&nbsp;

Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Imran recalled his role in country's liberation war of 1971.&nbsp;

The country announced one day of mourning on Wednesday for Mukherjee with flags in half-mast throughout the country and more than 70 of its missions across the world.

Sidhant Sibal: How does Bangladesh remembers Pranab Mukherjee?

Muhammad Imran: He was a great friend of Bangladesh and the first one who raised the issue of Bangladesh in Parliament of India. In fact any parliament outside of Bangladesh and after our Independence he was one of the most good friend of Bangladesh. He always updated himself on Bangladesh India issue and we had a very informal relationship with him. As a Bengali, very much frank and very much supportive of Bangladeshi cause. So it was natural that Bangladesh is also observing a day of mourning on his demise.&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: His role in Bangladesh's war of Independence?

Muhammad Imran: In recognition of his contribution we, Bangladesh government and people conferred on him "Muktijuddho Sommanona", special award when he visited Bangladesh in 2013 as President of India. We, in fact, we are honoured to confer this award on him.

Bangladeshi envoy to India, Muhammad Imran has paid his homage to former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee calling him a "good friend" of Bangladesh and "supportive" to the cause.

Bangladeshi envoy to India, Muhammad Imran has paid his homage to former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee calling him a "good friend" of Bangladesh and "supportive" to the cause. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Imran recalled his role in country's liberation war of 1971. The country announced one day of mourning on Wednesday for Mukherjee with flags in half-mast throughout the country and more than 70 of its missions across the world. Sidhant Sibal: How does Bangladesh remembers Pranab Mukherjee? Muhammad Imran: He was a great friend of Bangladesh and the first one who raised the issue of Bangladesh in Parliament of India. In fact any parliament outside of Bangladesh and after our Independence he was one of the most good friend of Bangladesh. He always updated himself on Bangladesh India issue and we had a very informal relationship with him. As a Bengali, very much frank and very much supportive of Bangladeshi cause. So it was natural that Bangladesh is also observing a day of mourning on his demise. Sidhant Sibal: His role in Bangladesh's war of Independence? Muhammad Imran: In recognition of his contribution we, Bangladesh government and people conferred on him "Muktijuddho Sommanona", special award when he visited Bangladesh in 2013 as President of India. We, in fact, we are honoured to confer this award on him.

Pranab Mukherjee first person who raised issue of Bangladesh in Parliament of India: Envoy

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

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

The All India United Democratic Front, an Assam-based political party, protested against the controversial <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/citizenship-amendment-bill-tabled-in-lok-sabha-267128">Citizenship (Amendment) Bill</a>, 2019 at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on Monday.

Protestors marched with placards that read, `We oppose CAB` and `CAB is against the idea of India`.

"The Centre is trying to get illegal Bangladeshi immigrants into our state. We are against this Bill, and we will keep protesting against the Bill. The government can pass it but we will not let it be enforced into Assam," Nizamuddin Choudhury, a party legislator, told ANI.

"The CAB should be abolished because it is against our constitution. This is a religious bill, which violates the Assam Accord signed in 1985," said Sujabuddin Lashkar, a protestor.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, that seeks to grant Indian citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan, was tabled in Lok Sabha on Monday by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Also Watch:&nbsp;Citizenship Amendment Bill tabled in Lok Sabha

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If passed, the legislation will enable Indian citizenship to the members of Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities, who have come from the three countries to India till December 31, 2014, facing religious persecution and put an end to them being treated as illegal immigrants in the country.

The Bill has evoked mixed reactions from various sections of the society and the political parties. Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, had on Sunday said that the party will oppose the Citizenship Amendment Bill "tooth and nail" in Parliament, calling it "violation" of the Indian Constitution.

Several Congress leaders including Ghulam Nabi Azad, Gaurav Gogoi and AK Antony had taken part in the meeting held at Gandhi`s residence late on Sunday.

Apart from this, several students and indigenous people`s rights organisations such as the All Assam Students` Union and the Indigenous People`s Front of Tripura , through marches and calling for strikes, have also carried out protests against the CAB.

The Bill was passed by the Lower House of the Parliament earlier this year but lapsed with the term of the previous Lok Sabha.

The All India United Democratic Front, an Assam-based political party, protested against the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on Monday.

The All India United Democratic Front, an Assam-based political party, protested against the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on Monday. Protestors marched with placards that read, `We oppose CAB` and `CAB is against the idea of India`. "The Centre is trying to get illegal Bangladeshi immigrants into our state. We are against this Bill, and we will keep protesting against the Bill. The government can pass it but we will not let it be enforced into Assam," Nizamuddin Choudhury, a party legislator, told ANI. "The CAB should be abolished because it is against our constitution. This is a religious bill, which violates the Assam Accord signed in 1985," said Sujabuddin Lashkar, a protestor. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, that seeks to grant Indian citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan, was tabled in Lok Sabha on Monday by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Also Watch: Citizenship Amendment Bill tabled in Lok Sabha × If passed, the legislation will enable Indian citizenship to the members of Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities, who have come from the three countries to India till December 31, 2014, facing religious persecution and put an end to them being treated as illegal immigrants in the country. The Bill has evoked mixed reactions from various sections of the society and the political parties. Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, had on Sunday said that the party will oppose the Citizenship Amendment Bill "tooth and nail" in Parliament, calling it "violation" of the Indian Constitution. Several Congress leaders including Ghulam Nabi Azad, Gaurav Gogoi and AK Antony had taken part in the meeting held at Gandhi`s residence late on Sunday. Apart from this, several students and indigenous people`s rights organisations such as the All Assam Students` Union and the Indigenous People`s Front of Tripura , through marches and calling for strikes, have also carried out protests against the CAB. The Bill was passed by the Lower House of the Parliament earlier this year but lapsed with the term of the previous Lok Sabha.

Assam's AIUDF protests against Citizenship Amendment Bill in Delhi

To protest against the passage of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-votes-in-favour-of-introduction-of-citizenship-amendment-bill-267153">Citizenship (Amendment) Bill</a>, many districts in Assam on Monday observed a 12 hour-shutdown and demonstrations were held in the several cities of the state.

Dirugarh, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal's constituency also participated in the shutdown.

All shops, markets remain closed and only a few people were seen out on the roads. Some protesters burnt rubber tyres but were soon detained by the police.

In Golaghat, some locals protested half-naked against the bill. Later, police resorted to lathi-charge in order to disperse the crowd.

Security forces have been deployed in many areas to keep the situation under control and avoid any untoward situation.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019 seeks to grant Indian citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. Union Home Minister Amit Shah today introduced the bill in Lok Sabha.

The Citizenship Amend Bill, 2019 was introduced after a division with 293 members voting in favour of the bill and 82 against it.

Through this bill, Indian citizenship will be provided to the members of Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities, who have come from the three countries to India till December 31, 2014, to put an end to them being treated as illegal immigrants in the country.

The Bill was passed by the Lower House of the Parliament earlier this year but lapsed with the term of the previous Lok Sabha during the first term of the Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/saarc-needs-greater-collaboration-to-act-against-terrorism-pm-narendra-modi-266951">Narendra Modi</a> government in the Centre.

To protest against the passage of Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, many districts in Assam on Monday observed a 12 hour-shutdown and demonstrations were held in the several cities of the state.

To protest against the passage of Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, many districts in Assam on Monday observed a 12 hour-shutdown and demonstrations were held in the several cities of the state. Dirugarh, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal's constituency also participated in the shutdown. All shops, markets remain closed and only a few people were seen out on the roads. Some protesters burnt rubber tyres but were soon detained by the police. In Golaghat, some locals protested half-naked against the bill. Later, police resorted to lathi-charge in order to disperse the crowd. Security forces have been deployed in many areas to keep the situation under control and avoid any untoward situation. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019 seeks to grant Indian citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. Union Home Minister Amit Shah today introduced the bill in Lok Sabha. The Citizenship Amend Bill, 2019 was introduced after a division with 293 members voting in favour of the bill and 82 against it. Through this bill, Indian citizenship will be provided to the members of Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities, who have come from the three countries to India till December 31, 2014, to put an end to them being treated as illegal immigrants in the country. The Bill was passed by the Lower House of the Parliament earlier this year but lapsed with the term of the previous Lok Sabha during the first term of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi government in the Centre.

Shutdown, protests in Assam against Citizenship Amendment Bill

Former Finance Minister P Chidambaram, who was released from Delhi's Tihar Jail on Wednesday after being <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-p-chidambaram-gets-bail-from-supreme-court-266087">granted bail</a> in the INX Media money laundering case, on Thursday reached Parliament to attend the ongoing Winter Session.

The senior Congress leader had on Wednesday said that he was happy to have stepped out from the jail and breathing the air of freedom after 106 days.

"I am happy that I have stepped out and breathing the air of freedom after 106 days," he said after meeting Congress president Sonia Gandhi at her residence here.

The apex court set aside the Delhi High Court's order which had refused to grant bail to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/p-chidambaram-to-attend-parliament-from-thursday-karti-chidambaram-266188">Chidambaram</a> and directed him not to tamper with evidence and influence witnesses in the case.

The court has directed Chidambaram not to give press interviews and make public statements with regard to this case. The court also directed him to furnish a bail bond of Rs 2 lakh plus two sureties of the same amount.

Chidambaram had sought the bail in a case pertaining to the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 during his tenure as the Finance Minister.

The CBI had registered a corruption case in this regard in May 2017. Later that year, the ED also lodged a money laundering case against him. The Congress leader was first arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on August 21 this year in the INX

Media corruption case but was granted bail by the Supreme Court two months later.

He was arrested by the ED in the money laundering case on October 16.

Former Finance Minister P Chidambaram, who was released from Delhi's Tihar Jail on Wednesday after being granted bail in the INX Media money laundering case, on Thursday reached Parliament to attend the ongoing Winter Session.

Former Finance Minister P Chidambaram, who was released from Delhi's Tihar Jail on Wednesday after being granted bail in the INX Media money laundering case, on Thursday reached Parliament to attend the ongoing Winter Session. The senior Congress leader had on Wednesday said that he was happy to have stepped out from the jail and breathing the air of freedom after 106 days. "I am happy that I have stepped out and breathing the air of freedom after 106 days," he said after meeting Congress president Sonia Gandhi at her residence here. The apex court set aside the Delhi High Court's order which had refused to grant bail to Chidambaram and directed him not to tamper with evidence and influence witnesses in the case. The court has directed Chidambaram not to give press interviews and make public statements with regard to this case. The court also directed him to furnish a bail bond of Rs 2 lakh plus two sureties of the same amount. Chidambaram had sought the bail in a case pertaining to the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 during his tenure as the Finance Minister. The CBI had registered a corruption case in this regard in May 2017. Later that year, the ED also lodged a money laundering case against him. The Congress leader was first arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on August 21 this year in the INX Media corruption case but was granted bail by the Supreme Court two months later. He was arrested by the ED in the money laundering case on October 16.

P Chidambaram reaches Parliament day after bail grant

The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has welcomed the Union Cabinet's approval for the proposal of mitigating financial stress being faced by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/airtel-vodafone-idea-to-hike-data-rates-stock-prices-surge-263162">telecom services sector</a> in the country.

"We welcome the fact that the government recognises the financial distress of the telecom sector and has provided relief in the form of deferments of spectrum payments. We are very thankful to our Minister, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/121-indian-users-targeted-in-pegasus-spyware-attack-full-extent-may-never-be-known-whatsapp-263433">Ravi Shankar Prasad</a> and the DoT for supporting us and pushing forward our request to the Finance Minister for action. This will certainly provide some immediate cash flow relief to the industry," a note by the DG, COAI Rajan S Mathews on Wednesday read.

The Department of Telecommunication will now give an option to the Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) to defer payment of the spectrum auction instalments due for 2020-21 and 2021-22, either for one or both years.

"These deferred amounts bill be spread equally in the remaining instalments to be paid by TSPs. Interest, as stipulated while auctioning of the concerned spectrum, will, however, be charged so that NPV is protected," an official release from Cabinet said.

According to the release, the decision for deferring spectrum payment instalments for two years will be implemented within a fortnight.

The COAI, however, added that the high level of levies and taxes continue to be a challenge for the telecom sector.

"The telcos pay up to 30 per cent&nbsp;of their revenues to the government, by way of various levies and taxes, which is an enormous burden on the industry," the note by DG, COAI read.

It also urged the government to rationalise the level of taxes and levies through its note.

The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has welcomed the Union Cabinet's approval for the proposal of mitigating financial stress being faced by the telecom services sector in the country.

The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has welcomed the Union Cabinet's approval for the proposal of mitigating financial stress being faced by the telecom services sector in the country. "We welcome the fact that the government recognises the financial distress of the telecom sector and has provided relief in the form of deferments of spectrum payments. We are very thankful to our Minister, Ravi Shankar Prasad and the DoT for supporting us and pushing forward our request to the Finance Minister for action. This will certainly provide some immediate cash flow relief to the industry," a note by the DG, COAI Rajan S Mathews on Wednesday read. The Department of Telecommunication will now give an option to the Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) to defer payment of the spectrum auction instalments due for 2020-21 and 2021-22, either for one or both years. "These deferred amounts bill be spread equally in the remaining instalments to be paid by TSPs. Interest, as stipulated while auctioning of the concerned spectrum, will, however, be charged so that NPV is protected," an official release from Cabinet said. According to the release, the decision for deferring spectrum payment instalments for two years will be implemented within a fortnight. The COAI, however, added that the high level of levies and taxes continue to be a challenge for the telecom sector. "The telcos pay up to 30 per cent of their revenues to the government, by way of various levies and taxes, which is an enormous burden on the industry," the note by DG, COAI read. It also urged the government to rationalise the level of taxes and levies through its note.

COAI welcomes Union Cabinet's move to ease stress on telecom services sector

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Wednesday protested in front of the Gandhi statue in the Parliament, demanding to bring a bill on the unauthorised colonies in this <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-to-speak-in-rajya-sabha-today-263306">winter session</a>.

The protest was led by AAP MP Sanjay Singh along with other party lawmakers including Bhagwant Mann who raised slogans against the Centre while holding placards in their hands.

Some of the placards read - "Bring bill on the unauthorised colonies and stop betraying public" and "allow registry of the houses constructed in unauthorised colonies."

"The Centre has given a list of 27 Bills mentioned in the list of business to be transacted in the winter session. In the list, there is no mention of the bill regarding people of the unauthorised colonies immediately getting registry papers and ownership rights from the Centre," Singh told ANI.

Also watch:&nbsp;Govt's focus in winter session of the Parliament: 'Citizenship Amendment Bill'

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Earlier this month, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/this-house-has-seen-many-historic-moments-says-modi-in-rajya-sabha-address-262903">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> had said that the Central government will diligently complete the work of transferring ownership rights to the 40 lakh people living in unauthorised colonies in the national capital and a bill will be brought in the winter session of Parliament.

"The government will complete the work with utmost responsibility," Modi had said addressing a gathering of BJP leaders along with Resident Welfare Association (RWA) officeholders and members of unauthorised colonies.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar, announcing the move, had said that the decision will benefit more than 40 lakh residents of unauthorised colonies spread over around 175 sq km as development and redevelopment can now take place in these colonies resulting in a clean, secure and healthy living environment.

The decision is applicable to 1,797 identified unauthorised colonies that are inhabited by lower-income groups and does not apply to 69 affluent colonies identified by DDA including Sainik Farms, Mahendru Enclave and Anant Ram Dairy.

The Winter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/citizenship-bill-in-focus-as-winter-session-of-parliament-gets-underway-from-today-262790">Session of the Parliament began</a> on November 18 and will continue till December 13.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Wednesday protested in front of the Gandhi statue in the Parliament, demanding to bring a bill on the unauthorised colonies in this winter session.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Wednesday protested in front of the Gandhi statue in the Parliament, demanding to bring a bill on the unauthorised colonies in this winter session. The protest was led by AAP MP Sanjay Singh along with other party lawmakers including Bhagwant Mann who raised slogans against the Centre while holding placards in their hands. Some of the placards read - "Bring bill on the unauthorised colonies and stop betraying public" and "allow registry of the houses constructed in unauthorised colonies." "The Centre has given a list of 27 Bills mentioned in the list of business to be transacted in the winter session. In the list, there is no mention of the bill regarding people of the unauthorised colonies immediately getting registry papers and ownership rights from the Centre," Singh told ANI. Also watch: Govt's focus in winter session of the Parliament: 'Citizenship Amendment Bill' × Earlier this month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that the Central government will diligently complete the work of transferring ownership rights to the 40 lakh people living in unauthorised colonies in the national capital and a bill will be brought in the winter session of Parliament. "The government will complete the work with utmost responsibility," Modi had said addressing a gathering of BJP leaders along with Resident Welfare Association (RWA) officeholders and members of unauthorised colonies. Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar, announcing the move, had said that the decision will benefit more than 40 lakh residents of unauthorised colonies spread over around 175 sq km as development and redevelopment can now take place in these colonies resulting in a clean, secure and healthy living environment. The decision is applicable to 1,797 identified unauthorised colonies that are inhabited by lower-income groups and does not apply to 69 affluent colonies identified by DDA including Sainik Farms, Mahendru Enclave and Anant Ram Dairy. The Winter Session of the Parliament began on November 18 and will continue till December 13.

AAP protests in Parliament, demands inclusion of bill on unauthorised colonies in winter session

India&#39;s parliament on Tuesday passed a new labour law that allows children to work for their families despite concerns by activists that it will hurt their development. 
 
The Lok Sabha or the lower house approved a ban on all children under 14 from working, except if employed in family businesses or in the sports and entertainment industry. 
 
The current law prohibits children under 14 from working only in hazardous jobs, although even this is not properly implemented, according to activists. 
 
The government defended the decision to allow some forms of labour after school hours or during vacations, saying some children needed to learn traditional skills and that families needed a helping hand. 
 
&quot;The purpose of the bill is that we should be able to practically implement it. So we have given some exemptions,&quot; junior labour and employment minister Bandaru Dattatreya told parliament. 
 
&quot;We have enabled many safeguards in the new bill,&quot; he added. 
 
UNICEF decried the new provision in the law, saying the legitimisation of family work would further disadvantage children from poorer families. 
 
&quot;The provision where the child helps his family or family enterprises, which is other than any hazardous occupations... raises serious concerns and is believed to impact the development and protection of the child,&quot; it said in a statement. 
 
Millions of children in India work as domestic servants and in factories, mines and many other areas, according to aid agencies and government figures. 
 
India&#39;s Nobel laureate and child rights activist Kailash Satyarthi said he was disappointed by the amended law. 
 
&quot;The Child Labour Amendment Bill 2016 is a missed opportunity to protect our children and generations to come,&quot; he wrote on Twitter. 
 
(AFP) 
&nbsp;

UNICEF decried the new provision, saying the legitimisation of family work would further disadvantage children from poorer families

India's parliament on Tuesday passed a new labour law that allows children to work for their families despite concerns by activists that it will hurt their development. The Lok Sabha or the lower house approved a ban on all children under 14 from working, except if employed in family businesses or in the sports and entertainment industry. The current law prohibits children under 14 from working only in hazardous jobs, although even this is not properly implemented, according to activists. The government defended the decision to allow some forms of labour after school hours or during vacations, saying some children needed to learn traditional skills and that families needed a helping hand. "The purpose of the bill is that we should be able to practically implement it. So we have given some exemptions," junior labour and employment minister Bandaru Dattatreya told parliament. "We have enabled many safeguards in the new bill," he added. UNICEF decried the new provision in the law, saying the legitimisation of family work would further disadvantage children from poorer families. "The provision where the child helps his family or family enterprises, which is other than any hazardous occupations... raises serious concerns and is believed to impact the development and protection of the child," it said in a statement. Millions of children in India work as domestic servants and in factories, mines and many other areas, according to aid agencies and government figures. India's Nobel laureate and child rights activist Kailash Satyarthi said he was disappointed by the amended law. "The Child Labour Amendment Bill 2016 is a missed opportunity to protect our children and generations to come," he wrote on Twitter. (AFP)

Indian parliament passes controversial child labour law