<p>On Wednesday (Aug 7), India suffered a huge blow as wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified ahead of&nbsp;her gold medal match in the women's 50kg&nbsp;freestyle wrestling final&nbsp;at the ongoing Paris Olympics 2024 edition. The in-form wrestler was deemed to be overweight and, hence, got disqualified.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The news shocked the entire country as the whole of India was expecting Vinesh to bring home a gold. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Minister of Home Affairs Amit Shah,&nbsp;Olympic medallists PV Sindhu and&nbsp;Abhinav Bindra, etc., reacted to Vinesh's shocking disqualification.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "Vinesh, you are a champion among champions! You are India's pride and an inspiration for each and every Indian.&nbsp; Today's setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair that I am experiencing.&nbsp;At the same time, I know that you epitomise resilience. It has always been your nature to take challenges head on. Come back stronger! We are all rooting for you."</p>

<p><strong>Here are how some big names responded:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Vinesh, you are a champion among champions! You are India's pride and an inspiration for each and every Indian.<br />
<br />
Today's setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair that I am experiencing.<br />
<br />
At the same time, I know that you epitomise resilience. It has always…</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1821083814363591059?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Dear <a href="https://twitter.com/Phogat_Vinesh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Phogat_Vinesh</a>, you will always be a champion in our eyes. I was deeply hoping you could win the gold. The little time I spent with you at PDCSE was watching a woman with a superhuman will fight to get better. It was inspiring. I am here for you always, sending all the…</p>
— Pvsindhu (@Pvsindhu1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pvsindhu1/status/1821102350813295015?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Vinesh Phogat's setback in the Olympics has certainly broken the hopes of millions of Indians. She has a brilliant sporting career, shining with the glory of defeating the world champion. This misfortune is merely an exception in her trailblazing career, from which I am sure she…</p>
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1821100498931609657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Completely gutted . Sometimes u dont need a gold medal to be a true champion to people….</p>
— Abhinav A. Bindra OLY (@Abhinav_Bindra) <a href="https://twitter.com/Abhinav_Bindra/status/1821082127808528776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The news on Vinesh is heartbreaking. I have no words - cannot even imagine what she and her team are going through <a href="https://twitter.com/Paris2024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paris2024</a> we all knew that Vineshs true weight is 53kg however I was sure her team had found a way for her to fight in 50kg - this is gut wrenching</p>
— Parth Jindal (@ParthJindal11) <a href="https://twitter.com/ParthJindal11/status/1821076324699554095?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>More reactions:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Just for 100gms?? 💔<br />
<br />
This sounds too unbelievable..<br />
<br />
That much weight can maybe be reduced just by shaving the head</p>
— Dhruv Rathee (@dhruv_rathee) <a href="https://twitter.com/dhruv_rathee/status/1821081956945191008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-paris-olympics-huge-blow-to-india-vinesh-phogat-disqualified-before-gold-medal-tie-for-being-overweight-747939">Paris Olympics: Huge blow to India! Vinesh Phogat DISQUALIFIED before gold medal tie for being overweight</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">If you ever think you are unlucky in your life<br />
<br />
Remember India Olympic campaign 2024. No cricket heartbreak was bigger than this Olympics<br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Phogat_Vinesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Phogat_Vinesh</a> <a href="https://t.co/qdiBE2gNIQ">pic.twitter.com/qdiBE2gNIQ</a></p>
— A Cricket Fan 🇮🇳 (@BhartArmy) <a href="https://twitter.com/BhartArmy/status/1821082474450940225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I just hope we will all word our headlines properly today. Vinesh Phogat is not "OVERWEIGHT"<br />
<br />
She is competing in the 50kg category and missed the cut by 150 grams. These are wrestlers who go days without water and food so they can shave off one gram after another.<br />
<br />
In Vinesh's…</p>
— Lavanya 🎙️🎥👩🏻‍💻 (@lav_narayanan) <a href="https://twitter.com/lav_narayanan/status/1821086119448211707?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ecstacy and exasperation all in a matter of 12 hours. Vinesh Phogat's qualification to the final was India's only silver lining till now in the campaign. The joy is short-lived as Vinesh is now disqualified. Terrible news <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a></p>
— Sarang Bhalerao (@bhaleraosarang) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhaleraosarang/status/1821078862283075701?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sometimes 100 grams is so heavy that it weigh downs your Olympic dreams.<br />
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The tiniest weights can cause the biggest heartbreaks.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VineshPhogat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VineshPhogat</a> <a href="https://t.co/76cjvHhl5T">pic.twitter.com/76cjvHhl5T</a></p>
— Sagar (@sagarcasm) <a href="https://twitter.com/sagarcasm/status/1821078696377380921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>As per sources, Indian PM also&nbsp;spoke with IOA President PT Usha about Vinesh's setback, urging her to explore all options and file a strong protest against her disqualification. A&nbsp;top official in the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI)&nbsp;told PTI, "Vinesh was overweight, so she was disqualified from the competition."</p>

<p>Competing in the 50kg, contrary to her usual 53kg, Vinesh&nbsp;beat the likes of&nbsp;Japanese superstar Yui Susaki , Ukraine's&nbsp;Oksana Livach and Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman Lopez to become the first Indian&nbsp;woman&nbsp;to&nbsp;reach the final of a wrestling event in Olympic Games on Tuesday (Aug 6). However, Vinesh was deemed overweight on the day of her gold medal match, against USA's Sarah Hildebrandt, and got disqualified. Her final bout was set to take place later on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Vinesh did everything she could to weigh under the permissible limit, however, all her efforts fell flat. This comes as a huge shock to the Indian contingent, who&nbsp;were&nbsp;expecting its maiden gold in Paris Olympics courtesy of in-form&nbsp;Vinesh.</p>


On Wednesday (Aug 7), India suffered a huge blow as wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified ahead of her gold medal match in the women's 50kg freestyle wrestling final at the ongoing Paris Olympics 2024 edition.

On Wednesday (Aug 7), India suffered a huge blow as wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified ahead of her gold medal match in the women's 50kg freestyle wrestling final at the ongoing Paris Olympics 2024 edition. The in-form wrestler was deemed to be overweight and, hence, got disqualified. The news shocked the entire country as the whole of India was expecting Vinesh to bring home a gold. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Minister of Home Affairs Amit Shah, Olympic medallists PV Sindhu and Abhinav Bindra, etc., reacted to Vinesh's shocking disqualification. PM Modi wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "Vinesh, you are a champion among champions! You are India's pride and an inspiration for each and every Indian. Today's setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair that I am experiencing. At the same time, I know that you epitomise resilience. It has always been your nature to take challenges head on. Come back stronger! We are all rooting for you." Here are how some big names responded: Vinesh, you are a champion among champions! You are India's pride and an inspiration for each and every Indian. Today's setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair that I am experiencing. At the same time, I know that you epitomise resilience. It has always… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2024 × Dear @Phogat_Vinesh, you will always be a champion in our eyes. I was deeply hoping you could win the gold. The little time I spent with you at PDCSE was watching a woman with a superhuman will fight to get better. It was inspiring. I am here for you always, sending all the… — Pvsindhu (@Pvsindhu1) August 7, 2024 × Vinesh Phogat's setback in the Olympics has certainly broken the hopes of millions of Indians. She has a brilliant sporting career, shining with the glory of defeating the world champion. This misfortune is merely an exception in her trailblazing career, from which I am sure she… — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) August 7, 2024 × Completely gutted . Sometimes u dont need a gold medal to be a true champion to people…. — Abhinav A. Bindra OLY (@Abhinav_Bindra) August 7, 2024 × The news on Vinesh is heartbreaking. I have no words - cannot even imagine what she and her team are going through @Paris2024 we all knew that Vineshs true weight is 53kg however I was sure her team had found a way for her to fight in 50kg - this is gut wrenching — Parth Jindal (@ParthJindal11) August 7, 2024 × More reactions: Just for 100gms?? 💔 This sounds too unbelievable.. That much weight can maybe be reduced just by shaving the head — Dhruv Rathee (@dhruv_rathee) August 7, 2024 × Also read: Paris Olympics: Huge blow to India! Vinesh Phogat DISQUALIFIED before gold medal tie for being overweight If you ever think you are unlucky in your life Remember India Olympic campaign 2024. No cricket heartbreak was bigger than this Olympics #Phogat_Vinesh pic.twitter.com/qdiBE2gNIQ — A Cricket Fan 🇮🇳 (@BhartArmy) August 7, 2024 × I just hope we will all word our headlines properly today. Vinesh Phogat is not "OVERWEIGHT" She is competing in the 50kg category and missed the cut by 150 grams. These are wrestlers who go days without water and food so they can shave off one gram after another. In Vinesh's… — Lavanya 🎙️🎥👩🏻‍💻 (@lav_narayanan) August 7, 2024 × Ecstacy and exasperation all in a matter of 12 hours. Vinesh Phogat's qualification to the final was India's only silver lining till now in the campaign. The joy is short-lived as Vinesh is now disqualified. Terrible news #Olympics — Sarang Bhalerao (@bhaleraosarang) August 7, 2024 × Sometimes 100 grams is so heavy that it weigh downs your Olympic dreams. The tiniest weights can cause the biggest heartbreaks.#VineshPhogat pic.twitter.com/76cjvHhl5T — Sagar (@sagarcasm) August 7, 2024 × As per sources, Indian PM also spoke with IOA President PT Usha about Vinesh's setback, urging her to explore all options and file a strong protest against her disqualification. A top official in the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) told PTI, "Vinesh was overweight, so she was disqualified from the competition." Competing in the 50kg, contrary to her usual 53kg, Vinesh beat the likes of Japanese superstar Yui Susaki , Ukraine's Oksana Livach and Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman Lopez to become the first Indian woman to reach the final of a wrestling event in Olympic Games on Tuesday (Aug 6). However, Vinesh was deemed overweight on the day of her gold medal match, against USA's Sarah Hildebrandt, and got disqualified. Her final bout was set to take place later on Wednesday. Vinesh did everything she could to weigh under the permissible limit, however, all her efforts fell flat. This comes as a huge shock to the Indian contingent, who were expecting its maiden gold in Paris Olympics courtesy of in-form Vinesh.

Paris Olympics: You don't need a gold medal...' - PM Modi, Bindra react to Vinesh Phogat's disqualification

<p>Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Thursday (Aug 15) extended his Independence Day greetings to the nation, saying freedom was a protective shield woven into the Constitution. "Happy Independence Day to all countrymen. For us, freedom is not just a word - it is our biggest protective shield, woven into constitutional and democratic values," the Congress leader said.</p>

<p>"This is the power of expression, the ability to speak the truth and the hope to fulfil dreams. Jai Hind," he added in his post on social media platform X.</p>

<p>Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also issued separate statements on the country’s Independence Day.</p>

<p>Kharge in his speech accused the PM Narendra Modi-led Union government of turning autonomous institutions into its puppets.</p>

<p>"We will protect this till the last breath. The Opposition is oxygen for democracy. It checks the government's unconstitutional attitude and amplifies the people's voice. It is worrying that the government has turned constitutional and autonomous institutions into puppets," he said.</p>

<p>Kharge hoisted the national flag at the headquarters in the presence of Rahul Gandhi and former party president Sonia Gandhi.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiL0dLj-_aHAxUmsFYBHR-5KxcQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hindenburg-report-rahul-gandhi-says-sebis-integrity-gravely-compromised-demands-accountability-from-modi-749233" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hindenburg-report-rahul-gandhi-says-sebis-integrity-gravely-compromised-demands-accountability-from-modi-749233&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiL0dLj-_aHAxUmsFYBHR-5KxcQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Hindenburg report: Rahul Gandhi says SEBI integrity ‘gravely compromised’, demands accountability from PM Modi</a></strong></p>

<p>Priyanka Gandhi said freedom, democracy, justice, equality and national unity are our national pledges.</p>

<p>"These values are the foundation of our Constitution. Protecting them is our most important duty towards the nation. Our pledge to protect our freedom, Constitution and its values is firm. Jai Hind. Jai Bharat," she said.</p>

<p>India is celebrating its 78th Independence Day on August 15. As a part of an annual tradition, PM Modi hoisted the national flag and addressed the nation from the Red Fort in New Delhi.</p>

<h2><strong>Congress releases Rahul Gandhi’s report card</strong></h2>

<p>Congress party also took the opportunity to release Rahul Gandhi’s report card of his 50 days as the Leader of the Opposition in the lower house of the Indian Parliament.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiL0dLj-_aHAxUmsFYBHR-5KxcQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/video-claims-indian-opposition-leader-rahul-gandhi-fell-asleep-in-parliament-during-waqf-bill-discussion-748964" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/video-claims-indian-opposition-leader-rahul-gandhi-fell-asleep-in-parliament-during-waqf-bill-discussion-748964&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiL0dLj-_aHAxUmsFYBHR-5KxcQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE">Video claims Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi fell asleep in Parliament during Waqf bill discussion</a></strong></p>

<p>The report card highlighted that Gandhi gave nine speeches at Parliament, held five press conferences, visited nine states and interacted with 25 groups, including labourers, farmers, loco pilots and students.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Thursday (Aug 15) extended his Independence Day greetings to the nation, saying freedom was a protective shield woven into the Constitution.

Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Thursday (Aug 15) extended his Independence Day greetings to the nation, saying freedom was a protective shield woven into the Constitution. "Happy Independence Day to all countrymen. For us, freedom is not just a word - it is our biggest protective shield, woven into constitutional and democratic values," the Congress leader said. "This is the power of expression, the ability to speak the truth and the hope to fulfil dreams. Jai Hind," he added in his post on social media platform X. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also issued separate statements on the country’s Independence Day. Kharge in his speech accused the PM Narendra Modi-led Union government of turning autonomous institutions into its puppets. "We will protect this till the last breath. The Opposition is oxygen for democracy. It checks the government's unconstitutional attitude and amplifies the people's voice. It is worrying that the government has turned constitutional and autonomous institutions into puppets," he said. Kharge hoisted the national flag at the headquarters in the presence of Rahul Gandhi and former party president Sonia Gandhi. Also read: Hindenburg report: Rahul Gandhi says SEBI integrity ‘gravely compromised’, demands accountability from PM Modi Priyanka Gandhi said freedom, democracy, justice, equality and national unity are our national pledges. "These values are the foundation of our Constitution. Protecting them is our most important duty towards the nation. Our pledge to protect our freedom, Constitution and its values is firm. Jai Hind. Jai Bharat," she said. India is celebrating its 78th Independence Day on August 15. As a part of an annual tradition, PM Modi hoisted the national flag and addressed the nation from the Red Fort in New Delhi. Congress releases Rahul Gandhi’s report card Congress party also took the opportunity to release Rahul Gandhi’s report card of his 50 days as the Leader of the Opposition in the lower house of the Indian Parliament. Also read: Video claims Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi fell asleep in Parliament during Waqf bill discussion The report card highlighted that Gandhi gave nine speeches at Parliament, held five press conferences, visited nine states and interacted with 25 groups, including labourers, farmers, loco pilots and students. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Freedom our biggest shield,’ says Rahul Gandhi in I-Day message; Congress releases LoP's report card

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:15,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:69,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1891}">The recent allegations by Hindenburg Research against SEBI Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch and her husband, Dhaval Buch, have ignited a political storm, with opposition parties demanding a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to investigate the matter. Now Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi has commented that the integrity of SEBI "has been gravely compromised".&nbsp;</p>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:103,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1979}"><strong bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:103,&quot;w&quot;:380,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1979}">Rahul Gandhi slams PM Modi</strong></h2>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:147,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:52,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2023}">"The integrity of SEBI, the securities regulator entrusted with safeguarding the wealth of small retail investors, has been gravely compromised by the allegations against its chairperson," alleged the Rae Bareli MP.</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:214,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2090}">Slamming Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Gandhi said, "It is now abundantly clear why Prime Minister Modi is so afraid of a JPC probe and what it might reveal."</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:264,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2140}"><strong bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:264,&quot;w&quot;:692,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2140}">Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:264,&quot;w&quot;:692,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2140}" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hindenburg-allegations-on-sebi-chief-adani-opposition-reacts-to-reports-findings-749103">Modi govt steeped in corruption...: Indian opposition reacts to Hindenburg's report on SEBI chief, Adani Group</a></strong></p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:314,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:52,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2190}">Addressing the Indian public, Gandhi asked them to imagine "an international cricket match between India and Australia, and every single person who is watching the match and those playing the match know that the umpire is compromised."</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:381,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:52,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2257}">"What would happen to the match? What would happen to the fairness of the match and the outcome? How would you feel as somebody who is participating in the match? This is exactly what is happening in the Indian stock market," he said in the video message.</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:448,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2324}">Gandhi said that honest investors across India have pressing questions for the Modi government.&nbsp;</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:480,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2356}">"Why hasn't SEBI Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch resigned yet?" asked Gandhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:512,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2388}">"If investors lose their hard-earned money, who will be held accountable—PM Modi, the SEBI Chairperson, or Gautam Adani?"</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:562,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2438}">Watch what he said here:</p>

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<div bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:116,&quot;y&quot;:605,&quot;w&quot;:505,&quot;h&quot;:215,&quot;abs_x&quot;:149,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2481}" class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:121,&quot;y&quot;:605,&quot;w&quot;:495,&quot;h&quot;:215,&quot;abs_x&quot;:154,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2481}" class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:182,&quot;y&quot;:644,&quot;w&quot;:409,&quot;h&quot;:122,&quot;abs_x&quot;:215,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2520}" dir="ltr" lang="en">The integrity of SEBI, the securities regulator entrusted with safeguarding the wealth of small retail investors, has been gravely compromised by the allegations against its Chairperson.<br bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:586,&quot;y&quot;:674,&quot;w&quot;:0,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:619,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2550}" />
<br bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:387,&quot;y&quot;:690,&quot;w&quot;:0,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:420,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2566}" />
Honest investors across the country have pressing questions for the government:<br bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:438,&quot;y&quot;:720,&quot;w&quot;:0,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:471,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2596}" />
<br bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:387,&quot;y&quot;:736,&quot;w&quot;:0,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:420,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2612}" />
- Why… <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:336,&quot;y&quot;:751,&quot;w&quot;:154,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:369,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2627}" href="https://t.co/vZlEl8Qb4b">pic.twitter.com/vZlEl8Qb4b</a></p>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:445,&quot;y&quot;:779,&quot;w&quot;:93,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:478,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2655}" href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1822638113753317572?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:710,&quot;y&quot;:595,&quot;w&quot;:20,&quot;h&quot;:20,&quot;abs_x&quot;:743,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2471}" class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:846,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2722}">He also questioned whether India's top court will look into the "very serious allegation".</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:878,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2754}">"In light of the new and very serious allegations that have surfaced, will the Supreme Court look into this matter suo moto once again?"</p>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:932,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2808}"><strong bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:932,&quot;w&quot;:385,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2808}">'Colonial arrogance of days bygone'</strong></h2>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:976,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2852}">Senior advocate Mahesh Jethmalani has dismissed the Hindenburg allegations as a "pathetic damp squib".</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1009,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2885}">"The announcement prior to its alleged big revelation itself reveals its motive: to destabilise India’s stock markets," alleged the&nbsp;former Rajya Sabha MP from the Bhartiya Janata Party.</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1058,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2934}">"This reeks of colonial arrogance of days bygone and contempt by a rich country national fortified by safe harbour, of the economic sovereignty of an emerging nation," he added.</p>

<div bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1108,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:190,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2984}" class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:116,&quot;y&quot;:1119,&quot;w&quot;:505,&quot;h&quot;:169,&quot;abs_x&quot;:149,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2995}" class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:121,&quot;y&quot;:1119,&quot;w&quot;:495,&quot;h&quot;:169,&quot;abs_x&quot;:154,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2995}" class="twitter-tweet">
<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:182,&quot;y&quot;:1157,&quot;w&quot;:409,&quot;h&quot;:76,&quot;abs_x&quot;:215,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3033}" dir="ltr" lang="en"><a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:198,&quot;y&quot;:1157,&quot;w&quot;:74,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:231,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3033}" href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hindenburg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hindenburg</a>’s “Something big” is a pathetic damp squib, The announcement prior to its alleged big revelation itself reveals its motive: to destabilise India’s stock markets. The pre publicity ill behoves a reputed “research analyst “. As regards the “big” something there is… <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:379,&quot;y&quot;:1219,&quot;w&quot;:147,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:412,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3095}" href="https://t.co/QeKNO4gEFp">https://t.co/QeKNO4gEFp</a></p>
— Mahesh Jethmalani (@JethmalaniM) <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:462,&quot;y&quot;:1247,&quot;w&quot;:93,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:495,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3123}" href="https://twitter.com/JethmalaniM/status/1822586469812236409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:710,&quot;y&quot;:1109,&quot;w&quot;:20,&quot;h&quot;:20,&quot;abs_x&quot;:743,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2985}" class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1314,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3190}"><strong bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1314,&quot;w&quot;:646,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3190}">Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:1314,&quot;w&quot;:565,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3190}" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/for-a-discredited-short-seller-adani-group-hits-back-over-hindenburg-report-749115">'For a discredited short-seller...': Adani Group hits back over Hindenburg report</a></strong></p>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1350,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3226}"><strong bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1350,&quot;w&quot;:350,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3226}">Hindenburg research allegations</strong></h2>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1394,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3270}">On Saturday, US short seller Hindenburg alleged SEBI chairperson Madhabi Buch was in cahoots with Adani.</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1444,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:52,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3320}">"We had previously noted Adani's total confidence in continuing to operate without the risk of serious regulatory intervention, suggesting that this may be explained through Adani’s relationship with SEBI Chairperson, Madhabi Buch."</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1511,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:52,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3387}">"What we hadn't realised: the current SEBI Chairperson and her husband, Dhaval Buch, had hidden stakes in the exact same obscure offshore Bermuda and Mauritius funds, found in the same complex nested structure, used by Vinod Adani," said the US firm.</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1578,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3454}">It said that its allegations were based on documents provided by a whistleblower and investigations carried out by other entities.</p>

<h2>SEBI urges calm, points to ‘short positions’ disclaimer in report</h2>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1578,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3454}">India’s market regulator SEBI has meanwhile issued a statement on Sunday and urged investors to remain calm and conduct due diligence before reacting to the Hindenburg Research report, pointing out that it includes a disclaimer that the short-seller may hold short positions in the securities covered.<br />
<br />
“Investors should remain calm and exercise due diligence before reacting to such reports. Investors may also like to take note of the disclaimer in the report that states that readers should assume that Hindenburg Research may have short positions in the securities covered in the report,” the statement read.</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1628,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3504}"><em bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1628,&quot;w&quot;:182,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3504}">(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The recent allegations by Hindenburg Research against SEBI Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch and her husband, Dhaval Buch, have ignited a political storm, with opposition parties demanding a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to investigate the matter.

The recent allegations by Hindenburg Research against SEBI Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch and her husband, Dhaval Buch, have ignited a political storm, with opposition parties demanding a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to investigate the matter. Now Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi has commented that the integrity of SEBI "has been gravely compromised". Rahul Gandhi slams PM Modi "The integrity of SEBI, the securities regulator entrusted with safeguarding the wealth of small retail investors, has been gravely compromised by the allegations against its chairperson," alleged the Rae Bareli MP. Slamming Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Gandhi said, "It is now abundantly clear why Prime Minister Modi is so afraid of a JPC probe and what it might reveal." Also read | Modi govt steeped in corruption...: Indian opposition reacts to Hindenburg's report on SEBI chief, Adani Group Addressing the Indian public, Gandhi asked them to imagine "an international cricket match between India and Australia, and every single person who is watching the match and those playing the match know that the umpire is compromised." "What would happen to the match? What would happen to the fairness of the match and the outcome? How would you feel as somebody who is participating in the match? This is exactly what is happening in the Indian stock market," he said in the video message. Gandhi said that honest investors across India have pressing questions for the Modi government. "Why hasn't SEBI Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch resigned yet?" asked Gandhi. "If investors lose their hard-earned money, who will be held accountable—PM Modi, the SEBI Chairperson, or Gautam Adani?" Watch what he said here: The integrity of SEBI, the securities regulator entrusted with safeguarding the wealth of small retail investors, has been gravely compromised by the allegations against its Chairperson. Honest investors across the country have pressing questions for the government: - Why… pic.twitter.com/vZlEl8Qb4b — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 11, 2024 × He also questioned whether India's top court will look into the "very serious allegation". "In light of the new and very serious allegations that have surfaced, will the Supreme Court look into this matter suo moto once again?" 'Colonial arrogance of days bygone' Senior advocate Mahesh Jethmalani has dismissed the Hindenburg allegations as a "pathetic damp squib". "The announcement prior to its alleged big revelation itself reveals its motive: to destabilise India’s stock markets," alleged the former Rajya Sabha MP from the Bhartiya Janata Party. "This reeks of colonial arrogance of days bygone and contempt by a rich country national fortified by safe harbour, of the economic sovereignty of an emerging nation," he added. #Hindenburg’s “Something big” is a pathetic damp squib, The announcement prior to its alleged big revelation itself reveals its motive: to destabilise India’s stock markets. The pre publicity ill behoves a reputed “research analyst “. As regards the “big” something there is… https://t.co/QeKNO4gEFp — Mahesh Jethmalani (@JethmalaniM) August 11, 2024 × Also read | 'For a discredited short-seller...': Adani Group hits back over Hindenburg report Hindenburg research allegations On Saturday, US short seller Hindenburg alleged SEBI chairperson Madhabi Buch was in cahoots with Adani. "We had previously noted Adani's total confidence in continuing to operate without the risk of serious regulatory intervention, suggesting that this may be explained through Adani’s relationship with SEBI Chairperson, Madhabi Buch." "What we hadn't realised: the current SEBI Chairperson and her husband, Dhaval Buch, had hidden stakes in the exact same obscure offshore Bermuda and Mauritius funds, found in the same complex nested structure, used by Vinod Adani," said the US firm. It said that its allegations were based on documents provided by a whistleblower and investigations carried out by other entities. SEBI urges calm, points to ‘short positions’ disclaimer in report India’s market regulator SEBI has meanwhile issued a statement on Sunday and urged investors to remain calm and conduct due diligence before reacting to the Hindenburg Research report, pointing out that it includes a disclaimer that the short-seller may hold short positions in the securities covered. “Investors should remain calm and exercise due diligence before reacting to such reports. Investors may also like to take note of the disclaimer in the report that states that readers should assume that Hindenburg Research may have short positions in the securities covered in the report,” the statement read. (With inputs from agencies)

Hindenburg report: Rahul Gandhi says SEBI integrity ‘gravely compromised’, demands accountability from PM Modi

<p>A video is doing the rounds on social media claiming that Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi fell asleep in Parliament on Thursday (Aug 8) while a discussion was underway&nbsp;on the Waqf Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha</p>

<p>The viral video showed Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju discussing the legislation as Gandhi allegedly fell asleep on his seat.</p>

<h3><strong>Here's a look at the viral video:</strong></h3>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Hey <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> are you sleeping on such an important debate.<br />
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Hey <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@INCIndia</a> you chose a immature LOP and now people are suffering because he is busy in personal work.<br />
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How our senior leader are working for the people of Bharat especially when a bill introduced for minorities… <a href="https://t.co/iE0fkQFHhc">pic.twitter.com/iE0fkQFHhc</a></p>
— Sumit Joshi (@iSumitjoshi) <a href="https://twitter.com/iSumitjoshi/status/1821471168076853435?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Videos and photographs also showed Minority Affairs Minister Rijiju and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Lok Sabha MP&nbsp;Giriraj Singh allegedly mocking Gandhi for falling asleep.</p>

<h2><strong>Was Gandhi sleeping in Lok Sabha?</strong></h2>

<p>Though an opposition Lok Sabha leader certainly fell asleep which led to Rijiju and Singh laughing, it is not yet known if the sleeping parliamentarian was indeed Gandhi, a report by the Free Press Journal said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">अब जो नया सेंट्रल वक्फ काउंसिल और स्टेट वक्फ बोर्ड होगा इसमें मुस्लिम महिलाओं का रिप्रेजेंटेशन अनिवार्य हो गया है: माननीय केंद्रिय मंत्री श्री <a href="https://twitter.com/KirenRijiju?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KirenRijiju</a> जी<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Parliament?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Parliament</a> <a href="https://t.co/1kXJB2W5tO">pic.twitter.com/1kXJB2W5tO</a></p>
— Office of Kiren Rijiju (@RijijuOffice) <a href="https://twitter.com/RijijuOffice/status/1821501846281740378?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>As Rijiju was speaking on the&nbsp;Waqf Amendment Bill, several BJP MPs including Giriraj Singh,&nbsp;Bhupendra Yadav and Jitendra Singh, started laughing and pointed out the opposition MP who fell asleep.</p>

<p>"That's why I tell you not to speak in between or not to try and interrupt repeatedly as it will make you fall asleep," Rijiju said</p>

<h2><strong>Did Gandhi doze off in 2016 too?</strong></h2>

<p>A similar situation was seen in Lok Sabha in 2016 when Gandhi allegedly dozed off when his party the Congress was cornering the Modi government&nbsp;over the crucial issue of Dalit protests in Gujarat.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">WATCH: Congress leader Renuka Chowdhury's clarification on Rahul Gandhi appearing to be dozing off in Lok Sabha.<a href="https://t.co/BdhqvGwG1U">https://t.co/BdhqvGwG1U</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/755691557412450304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2016</a></blockquote>
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<p>Amid a heated war of words between BJP MPs and opposition MPs,&nbsp;television cameras panned to show Gandhi, then vice-president of the Congress,&nbsp;sitting with his hands on his forehead and his eyes shut.</p>

<p>Congress leader Renuka Chowdhury provided a clarification that Gandhi was not sleeping during the discussion on Dalit protests in Gujarat.</p>

<p>"He was not sleeping. Can anyone sleep with such loud noise," Chowdhury told the news agency ANI and pointed out that Gandhi was just resting his eyes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A video is doing the rounds on social media claiming that Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi fell asleep in Parliament on Thursday (Aug 8) while a discussion was underway on the Waqf Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha The viral video showed Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju discussing the legislation as Gandhi allegedly fell asleep on his seat.

A video is doing the rounds on social media claiming that Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi fell asleep in Parliament on Thursday (Aug 8) while a discussion was underway on the Waqf Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha The viral video showed Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju discussing the legislation as Gandhi allegedly fell asleep on his seat. Here's a look at the viral video: Hey @RahulGandhi are you sleeping on such an important debate. Hey @INCIndia you chose a immature LOP and now people are suffering because he is busy in personal work. How our senior leader are working for the people of Bharat especially when a bill introduced for minorities… pic.twitter.com/iE0fkQFHhc — Sumit Joshi (@iSumitjoshi) August 8, 2024 × Videos and photographs also showed Minority Affairs Minister Rijiju and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Lok Sabha MP Giriraj Singh allegedly mocking Gandhi for falling asleep. Was Gandhi sleeping in Lok Sabha? Though an opposition Lok Sabha leader certainly fell asleep which led to Rijiju and Singh laughing, it is not yet known if the sleeping parliamentarian was indeed Gandhi, a report by the Free Press Journal said. अब जो नया सेंट्रल वक्फ काउंसिल और स्टेट वक्फ बोर्ड होगा इसमें मुस्लिम महिलाओं का रिप्रेजेंटेशन अनिवार्य हो गया है: माननीय केंद्रिय मंत्री श्री @KirenRijiju जी#Parliament pic.twitter.com/1kXJB2W5tO — Office of Kiren Rijiju (@RijijuOffice) August 8, 2024 × As Rijiju was speaking on the Waqf Amendment Bill, several BJP MPs including Giriraj Singh, Bhupendra Yadav and Jitendra Singh, started laughing and pointed out the opposition MP who fell asleep. "That's why I tell you not to speak in between or not to try and interrupt repeatedly as it will make you fall asleep," Rijiju said Did Gandhi doze off in 2016 too? A similar situation was seen in Lok Sabha in 2016 when Gandhi allegedly dozed off when his party the Congress was cornering the Modi government over the crucial issue of Dalit protests in Gujarat. WATCH: Congress leader Renuka Chowdhury's clarification on Rahul Gandhi appearing to be dozing off in Lok Sabha.https://t.co/BdhqvGwG1U — ANI (@ANI) July 20, 2016 × Amid a heated war of words between BJP MPs and opposition MPs, television cameras panned to show Gandhi, then vice-president of the Congress, sitting with his hands on his forehead and his eyes shut. Congress leader Renuka Chowdhury provided a clarification that Gandhi was not sleeping during the discussion on Dalit protests in Gujarat. "He was not sleeping. Can anyone sleep with such loud noise," Chowdhury told the news agency ANI and pointed out that Gandhi was just resting his eyes. (With inputs from agencies)

Video claims Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi fell asleep in Parliament during Waqf bill discussion

<p>Vinesh Phogat assured a medal for India after entering the final of women's wrestling at Paris Olympics. But her victory was followed by a slew of political potshots, given her participation in protests against the ruling government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Opposition Congress took the opportunity to take potshots at Modi, asking him if he would congratulate her like he does for all sports achievers, while Kangana Renaut, an MP from Modi's ruling BJP, reminded Phogat that at one time the wrestler had said she would 'dig Modi's grave'.</p>

<h2><strong>Vinesh Phogat's feat at Olympics</strong></h2>

<p>On Tuesday (Aug 6), the 29-year-old became the first Indian woman to enter an Olympics wrestling final.&nbsp;On a single day, Phogat defeated three top wrestlers.&nbsp;She beat Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman in the semifinal of women's 50kg freestyle category, after stunning defending champion Yui Susaki of Japan and eighth-seeded Ukrainian Oksana Livach in the previous bouts. On Wednesday, she will face American&nbsp;Sarah Hildebrandt in the final.</p>

<h2><br />
<strong>How opposition Congress reacted to Vinesh Phogat's Olympics achievement</strong></h2>

<p>Rahul Gandhi, India's leader of Opposition&nbsp;said in a post on X: "Today, along with Vinesh, the entire country is emotional after defeating three top wrestlers of the world in a single day. All those who denied the struggle of Vinesh and her teammates, and even questioned their intentions and abilities, have got their answer."</p>

<p>"Today, the entire power system that had made India shed tears of blood collapsed in front of her brave daughter. This is the identity of champions, they give their answer from the field. Best wishes Vinesh. The echo of your success in Paris can be heard clearly till Delhi," said the Congress leader.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">एक ही दिन में दुनिया की तीन धुरंधर पहलवानों को हराने के बाद आज विनेश के साथ-साथ पूरा देश भावुक है।<br />
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जिन्होंने भी विनेश और उसके साथियों के संघर्ष को झुठलाया, उनकी नीयत और काबिलियत तक पर प्रश्नचिन्ह खड़े किए, उन सभी को जवाब मिल चुका है।<br />
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आज भारत की बहादुर बेटी के सामने सत्ता का… <a href="https://t.co/MzfIrYfRog">pic.twitter.com/MzfIrYfRog</a></p>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1820877024883601915?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Rahul Gandhi's sister and Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi wrote on X: "I know that for you this is not just a tough match of Olympics. You defeated the world's number one player, but this is also a victory of your struggles inside and outside the field. Today the whole world is seeing the tricolour fluttering in your hands. You are the pride of this country and will always remain so. Best wishes. Jai Ho! Vijay Ho!"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">शाबाश <a href="https://twitter.com/Phogat_Vinesh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Phogat_Vinesh</a> !<br />
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मैं जानती हूं कि आपके लिए यह सिर्फ ओ​लंपिक का कठिन मुकाबला भर नहीं है। आपने दुनिया की नंबर वन खिलाड़ी को तो हराया ही, यह मैदान के भीतर और बाहर आपके संघर्षों की भी जीत है।<br />
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आज पूरी दुनिया आपके हाथों में लहराता हुआ तिरंगा देख रही है। आप इस देश का गौरव हैं… <a href="https://t.co/ATOuWuLRns">pic.twitter.com/ATOuWuLRns</a></p>
— Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankagandhi/status/1820800692258279693?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Congress leader Jairam Ramesh posted on X: "Vinesh Phogat is assured of a silver or a gold medal at Paris. Will the non-biological PM call her? To congratulate her of course but more importantly to apologise for the atrocious manner in which the Delhi Police misbehaved with her during the women wrestlers protest?"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">विनेश फोगाट का पेरिस ओलंपिक में सिल्वर या गोल्ड मेडल पक्का है। क्या नॉन-बायोलॉजिकल प्रधानमंत्री उन्हें कॉल करेंगे? निश्चित रूप से उन्हें बधाई देने के लिए, लेकिन इससे भी महत्वपूर्ण यह है कि उस शर्मानाक घटना के लिए माफ़ी मांगने के लिए जब महिला पहलवानों के विरोध प्रदर्शन के दौरान…</p>
— Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jairam_Ramesh/status/1820881846713860209?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Reacting to the news, Kangana Renaut, actress and BJP lawmaker from Himachal Pradesh, pointed out that Phogat, at the height of wrestlers' protest, had said she would dig the grave of Modi, and yet was allowed to take part in Olympics.<br />
<br />
"Fingers crossed for India's first Gold Medal. Vinesh Phogat at one point took part in protests where she raised the slogans of 'Modi teri khabr Khudegi' [Modi, will dig your grave]. Yet she was given the opportunity to represent the nation and best of the training, coaches and facilities. Beauty of democrac and a great leader," she posted on her Instagram stories.</p>

<h2><strong>Vinesh Phogat and the wrestlers' protest</strong></h2>

<p>In 2023, Vinesh Phogat along with some male and female wrestlers began a protest against Brajbhushan Singh, then a BJP lawmaker and the chief of Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), alleging that he molested or sexually abused several wrestlers. In spite of their long protest, Singh refused to quit, and the government cracked down on the protest, forcibly removing them from Delhi streets. The protest eventually became a larger anti-government agitation. Singh eventually exited as WFI chief.<br />
<br />
Even before the Indian wrestlers were to go to Paris, there were several uncertainties as to whether they will be allowed or able to participate.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Vinesh Phogat assured a medal for India after entering the final of women's wrestling at Paris Olympics. But her victory was followed by a slew of political potshots, given her participation in protests against the ruling government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Vinesh Phogat assured a medal for India after entering the final of women's wrestling at Paris Olympics. But her victory was followed by a slew of political potshots, given her participation in protests against the ruling government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Opposition Congress took the opportunity to take potshots at Modi, asking him if he would congratulate her like he does for all sports achievers, while Kangana Renaut, an MP from Modi's ruling BJP, reminded Phogat that at one time the wrestler had said she would 'dig Modi's grave'. Vinesh Phogat's feat at Olympics On Tuesday (Aug 6), the 29-year-old became the first Indian woman to enter an Olympics wrestling final. On a single day, Phogat defeated three top wrestlers. She beat Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman in the semifinal of women's 50kg freestyle category, after stunning defending champion Yui Susaki of Japan and eighth-seeded Ukrainian Oksana Livach in the previous bouts. On Wednesday, she will face American Sarah Hildebrandt in the final. How opposition Congress reacted to Vinesh Phogat's Olympics achievement Rahul Gandhi, India's leader of Opposition said in a post on X: "Today, along with Vinesh, the entire country is emotional after defeating three top wrestlers of the world in a single day. All those who denied the struggle of Vinesh and her teammates, and even questioned their intentions and abilities, have got their answer." "Today, the entire power system that had made India shed tears of blood collapsed in front of her brave daughter. This is the identity of champions, they give their answer from the field. Best wishes Vinesh. The echo of your success in Paris can be heard clearly till Delhi," said the Congress leader. एक ही दिन में दुनिया की तीन धुरंधर पहलवानों को हराने के बाद आज विनेश के साथ-साथ पूरा देश भावुक है। जिन्होंने भी विनेश और उसके साथियों के संघर्ष को झुठलाया, उनकी नीयत और काबिलियत तक पर प्रश्नचिन्ह खड़े किए, उन सभी को जवाब मिल चुका है। आज भारत की बहादुर बेटी के सामने सत्ता का… pic.twitter.com/MzfIrYfRog — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 6, 2024 × Rahul Gandhi's sister and Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi wrote on X: "I know that for you this is not just a tough match of Olympics. You defeated the world's number one player, but this is also a victory of your struggles inside and outside the field. Today the whole world is seeing the tricolour fluttering in your hands. You are the pride of this country and will always remain so. Best wishes. Jai Ho! Vijay Ho!" शाबाश @Phogat_Vinesh ! मैं जानती हूं कि आपके लिए यह सिर्फ ओलंपिक का कठिन मुकाबला भर नहीं है। आपने दुनिया की नंबर वन खिलाड़ी को तो हराया ही, यह मैदान के भीतर और बाहर आपके संघर्षों की भी जीत है। आज पूरी दुनिया आपके हाथों में लहराता हुआ तिरंगा देख रही है। आप इस देश का गौरव हैं… pic.twitter.com/ATOuWuLRns — Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) August 6, 2024 × Congress leader Jairam Ramesh posted on X: "Vinesh Phogat is assured of a silver or a gold medal at Paris. Will the non-biological PM call her? To congratulate her of course but more importantly to apologise for the atrocious manner in which the Delhi Police misbehaved with her during the women wrestlers protest?" विनेश फोगाट का पेरिस ओलंपिक में सिल्वर या गोल्ड मेडल पक्का है। क्या नॉन-बायोलॉजिकल प्रधानमंत्री उन्हें कॉल करेंगे? निश्चित रूप से उन्हें बधाई देने के लिए, लेकिन इससे भी महत्वपूर्ण यह है कि उस शर्मानाक घटना के लिए माफ़ी मांगने के लिए जब महिला पहलवानों के विरोध प्रदर्शन के दौरान… — Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) August 6, 2024 × Reacting to the news, Kangana Renaut, actress and BJP lawmaker from Himachal Pradesh, pointed out that Phogat, at the height of wrestlers' protest, had said she would dig the grave of Modi, and yet was allowed to take part in Olympics. "Fingers crossed for India's first Gold Medal. Vinesh Phogat at one point took part in protests where she raised the slogans of 'Modi teri khabr Khudegi' [Modi, will dig your grave]. Yet she was given the opportunity to represent the nation and best of the training, coaches and facilities. Beauty of democrac and a great leader," she posted on her Instagram stories. Vinesh Phogat and the wrestlers' protest In 2023, Vinesh Phogat along with some male and female wrestlers began a protest against Brajbhushan Singh, then a BJP lawmaker and the chief of Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), alleging that he molested or sexually abused several wrestlers. In spite of their long protest, Singh refused to quit, and the government cracked down on the protest, forcibly removing them from Delhi streets. The protest eventually became a larger anti-government agitation. Singh eventually exited as WFI chief. Even before the Indian wrestlers were to go to Paris, there were several uncertainties as to whether they will be allowed or able to participate. (With inputs from agencies)

Vinesh Phogat enters Olympics wrestling final, Congress mocks PM, Kangana reminds her of anti-Modi stance

<p>In one of the most catastrophic natural disasters to hit the Indian state of&nbsp;Kerala, landslides in the Wayanad district&nbsp;swept away homes, villages, killed over 100 people, while hundreds remain trapped under debris, heightening fears of increasing fatalities.</p>

<p>Heavy rains&nbsp;triggered multiple landslides in Wayanad district, which took the lives of&nbsp;108&nbsp; people on Tuesday (July 30) morning. The Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi urged the Indian&nbsp;government to provide support,&nbsp;medical care and compensate the family of the deceased.</p>

<p>"Earlier this morning, Wayanad was hit by several devastating landslides. More than 70 people have been killed… I have spoken to the Honourable Defence Minister and the Chief Minister of Kerala. I request the Union government to extend all possible support for rescue and medical care, and immediate release of the compensation to those deceased. That compensation can be increased as well… and prepare a roadmap for the rehabilitation of the affected families,” Gandhi said, addressing the Lok Sabha.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Wayanad landslides: Hundreds suspected to be trapped, over 70 rescued; Army &amp; NDRF deployed for ops</strong></p>

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<p>“… Landslides loom over many areas in Wayanad and the Western Ghats. Our country has witnessed an alarming rise in landslides in the last few years. There is an urgent need for mapping of landslide-prone areas, and to take up mitigation measures and an action plan to address the growing frequency of natural calamities in the ecologically fragile regions,” he continued.</p>

<p>Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi will likely visit Wayanad soon to observe the situation,&nbsp;Congress general secretary (organisation) KC Venugopal told ANI.</p>

<h2><strong>Wayanad landslides: Death toll rises&nbsp;to 108</strong></h2>

<p>As per the Kerala Revenue Minister's office, the death toll in the Wayanad landslide has risen to 108, and a total of 128 injuries have been reported, so far, with many more feared trapped under mud and debris.</p>

<p>According to officials, nearly 350 families reside in the affected region and 250 people have been rescued. Kerala government has declared official mourning in the state on Tuesday and Wednesday (July 31).</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/five-kashmiri-pandit-houses-gutted-in-anantnag-community-members-allege-sabotage-police-starts-investigation-745553">Five Kashmiri pandit houses gutted in Anantnag, community alleges sabotage</a></strong></p>

<p>"Wayanad landslide: Indian Army column reached the landslide site at Chooralmala by 1200 hours. Using ropes, soldiers are being ferried across the river which is in spate to assist and carry out rescue efforts in Ward No 10 of Chooralmala," Indian Army officials said.</p>

<h2><strong>'This is a tragedy of not just Kerala alone': JP Nadda</strong></h2>

<p>“I would like to say this is a tragedy of not just Kerala alone, but the entire nation is concerned… Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, The government of India is working proactively and doing everything necessary for the relief work in Kerala,” Union Minister JP Nadda said.</p>

<p>“On behalf of the government, I assure you that whatever is needed will be done…The PM spoke with the Kerala CM and gave him assurance. Support from central agencies for relief has reached there. Work is being done in coordination with the state government. Right now, the primary concern lies in recovering the bodies and save those who can be saved… We should activate the Emergency Response System,” he said in the Upper House of the Indian Parliament (Rajya Sabha).</p>

<p>Rahul Gandhi won from Wayanad in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections but resigned to keep Rae Bareli, a family bastion. Wayanad is&nbsp;lauded as one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in South India for its&nbsp;tea and cardamom estates.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In one of the most catastrophic natural disasters to hit the Indian state of Kerala, landslides in the Wayanad district swept away homes, villages, killed over 100 people, while hundreds remain trapped under debris, heightening fears of increasing fatalities.

In one of the most catastrophic natural disasters to hit the Indian state of Kerala, landslides in the Wayanad district swept away homes, villages, killed over 100 people, while hundreds remain trapped under debris, heightening fears of increasing fatalities. Heavy rains triggered multiple landslides in Wayanad district, which took the lives of 108 people on Tuesday (July 30) morning. The Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi urged the Indian government to provide support, medical care and compensate the family of the deceased. "Earlier this morning, Wayanad was hit by several devastating landslides. More than 70 people have been killed… I have spoken to the Honourable Defence Minister and the Chief Minister of Kerala. I request the Union government to extend all possible support for rescue and medical care, and immediate release of the compensation to those deceased. That compensation can be increased as well… and prepare a roadmap for the rehabilitation of the affected families,” Gandhi said, addressing the Lok Sabha. Watch | Wayanad landslides: Hundreds suspected to be trapped, over 70 rescued; Army & NDRF deployed for ops × “… Landslides loom over many areas in Wayanad and the Western Ghats. Our country has witnessed an alarming rise in landslides in the last few years. There is an urgent need for mapping of landslide-prone areas, and to take up mitigation measures and an action plan to address the growing frequency of natural calamities in the ecologically fragile regions,” he continued. Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi will likely visit Wayanad soon to observe the situation, Congress general secretary (organisation) KC Venugopal told ANI. Wayanad landslides: Death toll rises to 108 As per the Kerala Revenue Minister's office, the death toll in the Wayanad landslide has risen to 108, and a total of 128 injuries have been reported, so far, with many more feared trapped under mud and debris. According to officials, nearly 350 families reside in the affected region and 250 people have been rescued. Kerala government has declared official mourning in the state on Tuesday and Wednesday (July 31). Also read: Five Kashmiri pandit houses gutted in Anantnag, community alleges sabotage "Wayanad landslide: Indian Army column reached the landslide site at Chooralmala by 1200 hours. Using ropes, soldiers are being ferried across the river which is in spate to assist and carry out rescue efforts in Ward No 10 of Chooralmala," Indian Army officials said. 'This is a tragedy of not just Kerala alone': JP Nadda “I would like to say this is a tragedy of not just Kerala alone, but the entire nation is concerned… Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, The government of India is working proactively and doing everything necessary for the relief work in Kerala,” Union Minister JP Nadda said. “On behalf of the government, I assure you that whatever is needed will be done…The PM spoke with the Kerala CM and gave him assurance. Support from central agencies for relief has reached there. Work is being done in coordination with the state government. Right now, the primary concern lies in recovering the bodies and save those who can be saved… We should activate the Emergency Response System,” he said in the Upper House of the Indian Parliament (Rajya Sabha). Rahul Gandhi won from Wayanad in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections but resigned to keep Rae Bareli, a family bastion. Wayanad is lauded as one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in South India for its tea and cardamom estates. (With inputs from agencies)

Wayanad landslides: Death toll crosses 100, many still feared trapped in debris

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP of trapping India in a 'chakravyuh' of fear, symbolised by the Lotus. He also criticized the recent Union Budget. Watch in for more details!

India: Rahul Gandhi targets BJP in budget speech

India trapped in modern 'Chakravyuh', 6 people controlling it: Rahul Gandhi targets Modi-led govt

<p>Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, on Monday (July 29) took references from the ancient text Mahabharata to deliver a heavy-handed political attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. While discussing the Union Budget 2024, the Congress leader cited Mahabharata's 'chakravyuha' — a military formation that resembles a labyrinth of defensive walls and is depicted in the Hindu epic Mahabharata &nbsp;— to state that the Lotus (the symbol of PM Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party) also resembles the ancient military formation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Member of Parliament from Rae Bareli drew Chakravyuha's lotus analogy to target the government, saying it has created an "atmosphere of fear" in the country.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/battle-of-the-bastions-raebarelis-tryst-with-nehru-gandhi-family-since-1952-722837">Battle of the Bastions: Rae Bareli's tryst with Nehru-Gandhi family since 1952</a></strong></p>

<p>"When I researched about the chakravyuha, I got to know that it is also known as 'padmavyuha' or 'lotus'-vyuha (lotus formation).</p>

<p>"In 21st century, India is trapped in a new chakravyuha represented by lotus symbol that PM Modi wears on his chest," Rahul said in Lok Sabha.</p>

<p>Citing Mahabharata's chakravyuha that killed young warrior Abhimanyu on the battlefield, Rahul explained that there were six people at the centre of the trap -- Dronacharya, Karna, Kripacharya, Kritavarma, Ashwathama, and Shakuni.</p>

<p>"Similarly, there are six people at the centre of chakravuya today -- PM Modi, Amit Shah, Mohan Bhagwat, Ajit Doval, Ambani and Adani."</p>

<p>Rahul Gandhi's comment led to an uproar by the MPs of ruling National Democratic Alliance as well as an intervention from Speaker Om Birla. To which Rahul said, "If you want, I will remove the names of NSA Doval, Ambani and Adani from this list."</p>

<p>"In BJP, only one leader is allowed to dream to be the Prime Minister. If today, defence minister wants to be the PM, there's a big problem, big fear."</p>

<p>"Why are my friends in BJP are terrified, the ministers are terrified, the farmers are terrified, the workers, youngsters, why are they all terrified?" asked Rahul.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India: Rahul Gandhi slams Modi government's education system</strong></p>

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<p>In response to his question, Rahul said when he thought about the reason behind the state of affairs in the country, he came up with the chakravyuha analogy.</p>

<p>"The 'chakravyuha that has captured India has three forces behind it. 1) The idea of monopoly capital - that 2 people should be allowed to own the entire Indian wealth. So, one element of the chakravyuha is coming from the concentration of financial power. 2) The institutions, the agencies, CBI, ED, IT of this nation, and 3) Political executive. These three together, are at the heart of chakravyuha and they have devastated this country," Rahul said.</p>

<p>"They (NDA government) think that today's people are Abhimanyu, but today's people are Arjuna. They will break this chakravyuha," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, on Monday (July 29) took references from the ancient text Mahabharata to deliver a heavy-handed political attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government.

Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, on Monday (July 29) took references from the ancient text Mahabharata to deliver a heavy-handed political attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. While discussing the Union Budget 2024, the Congress leader cited Mahabharata's 'chakravyuha' — a military formation that resembles a labyrinth of defensive walls and is depicted in the Hindu epic Mahabharata — to state that the Lotus (the symbol of PM Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party) also resembles the ancient military formation. The Member of Parliament from Rae Bareli drew Chakravyuha's lotus analogy to target the government, saying it has created an "atmosphere of fear" in the country. Also read | Battle of the Bastions: Rae Bareli's tryst with Nehru-Gandhi family since 1952 "When I researched about the chakravyuha, I got to know that it is also known as 'padmavyuha' or 'lotus'-vyuha (lotus formation). "In 21st century, India is trapped in a new chakravyuha represented by lotus symbol that PM Modi wears on his chest," Rahul said in Lok Sabha. Citing Mahabharata's chakravyuha that killed young warrior Abhimanyu on the battlefield, Rahul explained that there were six people at the centre of the trap -- Dronacharya, Karna, Kripacharya, Kritavarma, Ashwathama, and Shakuni. "Similarly, there are six people at the centre of chakravuya today -- PM Modi, Amit Shah, Mohan Bhagwat, Ajit Doval, Ambani and Adani." Rahul Gandhi's comment led to an uproar by the MPs of ruling National Democratic Alliance as well as an intervention from Speaker Om Birla. To which Rahul said, "If you want, I will remove the names of NSA Doval, Ambani and Adani from this list." "In BJP, only one leader is allowed to dream to be the Prime Minister. If today, defence minister wants to be the PM, there's a big problem, big fear." "Why are my friends in BJP are terrified, the ministers are terrified, the farmers are terrified, the workers, youngsters, why are they all terrified?" asked Rahul. Also watch | India: Rahul Gandhi slams Modi government's education system × In response to his question, Rahul said when he thought about the reason behind the state of affairs in the country, he came up with the chakravyuha analogy. "The 'chakravyuha that has captured India has three forces behind it. 1) The idea of monopoly capital - that 2 people should be allowed to own the entire Indian wealth. So, one element of the chakravyuha is coming from the concentration of financial power. 2) The institutions, the agencies, CBI, ED, IT of this nation, and 3) Political executive. These three together, are at the heart of chakravyuha and they have devastated this country," Rahul said. "They (NDA government) think that today's people are Abhimanyu, but today's people are Arjuna. They will break this chakravyuha," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi brings Mahabharata's Shakuni and ‘chakravyuh’ to attack Modi government

<p>Congress leader Rahul Gandhi appeared before the MP-MLA court here on Friday for a hearing in a defamation case.</p>

<p>The court fixed August 12 as the next date of hearing in the matter when the statement of the petitioner will be recorded. Court sources said Gandhi need not appear in the court again on that date.</p>

<p>Congress district president Abhishek Singh Rana confirmed that Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, appeared in the court.</p>

<p>Local Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Vijay Mishra filed a defamation case on August 4, 2018, against Gandhi for making alleged objectionable remarks against the then BJP president and current Home Minister Amit Shah.</p>

<p>The court granted bail to Gandhi in this case on February 20.</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></strong></p>


Congress leader Rahul Gandhi appeared before the MP-MLA court here on Friday for a hearing in a defamation case. The court fixed August 12 as the next date of hearing in the matter when the statement of the petitioner will be recorded.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi appeared before the MP-MLA court here on Friday for a hearing in a defamation case. The court fixed August 12 as the next date of hearing in the matter when the statement of the petitioner will be recorded. Court sources said Gandhi need not appear in the court again on that date. Congress district president Abhishek Singh Rana confirmed that Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, appeared in the court. Local Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Vijay Mishra filed a defamation case on August 4, 2018, against Gandhi for making alleged objectionable remarks against the then BJP president and current Home Minister Amit Shah. The court granted bail to Gandhi in this case on February 20. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi appears in UP court in defamation case

<p><strong>Who is Dhruv Rathee?</strong>&nbsp;Dhruv, one of the most famous Indian YouTubers, has been summoned by an Indian court after a defamation case was filed against the influencer by a BJP leader. The case filed by Suresh Karamshi Nakhua alleges&nbsp;that Rathee called him a violent and abusive troll in a video posted by him. But who is Dhruv Rathee and why is he considered important?</p>

<h2>The YouTube journey of Dhruv Rathee</h2>

<p>Rathee is a 29-year-old Europe-based computer engineer and influencer. Apart from content creation, he teaches online courses on artificial intelligence apps like ChatGPT.</p>

<p>Rathee started his YouTube channel while studying for a computer science course in Germany. In the initial years, he mostly documented his travels, speaking mainly in Hindi.<br />
<br />
Later, he started explainer videos on a multitude of subjects ranging from science, technology, history and the business world. He used to comment occasionally on politically sensitive subjects, like during the farmers' protests of 2020 and the release of the controversial film <em>Kerala Story</em>.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-court-summons-youtuber-dhruv-rathee-in-defamation-case-filed-by-bjp-spokesperson-743744" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-court-summons-youtuber-dhruv-rathee-in-defamation-case-filed-by-bjp-spokesperson-743744&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjmufXK8MGHAxUDcGwGHZfSB_YQFnoECAUQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0SmK4wteTCV4dWToubzzbN&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-court-summons-youtuber-dhruv-rathee-in-defamation-case-filed-by-bjp-spokesperson-743744" target="_blank">Delhi court summons YouTuber&nbsp;<b>Dhruv Rathee</b>&nbsp;in defamation case</a><br />
<br />
But closer to the general elections in India this year, his channel took a political pivot and started sharing videos explicitly critical of the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and its ideological font RSS or Rashtriya Swayam Sevak Sangh.</p>

<p>He did a series of videos alleging that the Modi government was showing signs of dictatorship, an allegation that the opposition parties led by Rahul Gandhi's Congress lapped up during the election campaign.<br />
<br />
While Rathee himself operated mainly from Europe, his political videos gained traction across social media platforms in India. At least some of them were shown on big screens in several cities and towns. Besides the YouTube channel, during the election season this summer, Rathee also created a WhatsApp channel, directly addressing his millions of followers to vote against the incumbent government. He also made his presence felt in Facebook, Instagram and X.</p>

<p>Soon, Rathee started getting threats, as he claimed in his videos, and his critics challenged him to come to India. He did come to India during the elections and posted pictures from India Gate in the capital New Delhi.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-salman-khan-alleges-lawrence-bishnoi-carried-out-firing-outside-his-residence-743910">Salman Khan alleges Lawrence Bishnoi carried out firing outside his residence</a></p>

<p>Born and brought up in the north Indian state of Haryana, Rathee comes from a family of farmers and soldiers, while his father is an engineer.<br />
<br />
He married Juli Lbr, a German in 2021 after seven years of relationship, and is expecting a baby with her in September.</p>

<p>He has a separate travel vlog channel on YouTube.</p>

<h2>The court case of Dhruv Rathee</h2>

<p>The Saket Court in Indian capital Delhi issued the order to summon Rathee on July 19, on a complaint by Nakhua, who is a BJP spokesperson in the western city of Mumbai. The district judge Gunjan Gupta set August 6 as the date of hearing in the case.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/zeenat-aman-blasts-brands-for-giving-ludicrously-low-fees-i-am-more-than-a-designer-handbag-743642">Zeenat Aman blasts brands for giving 'ludicrously low fees': I am more than a designer handbag</a></p>

<p>Nakhua claimed in his petition that that Rathee “made bold and unsubstantiated claims” in one of his videos, which hurt his reputation.&nbsp; The complaint said that in the "cunningly crafted video, a deliberate campaign was made to besmirch his integrity and reputation while adding "baseless accusations and malicious connections are artfully insinuated."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Who is Dhruv Rathee? Dhruv, one of the most famous Indian YouTubers, has been summoned by an Indian court after a defamation case was filed against the influencer by a BJP leader.

Who is Dhruv Rathee? Dhruv, one of the most famous Indian YouTubers, has been summoned by an Indian court after a defamation case was filed against the influencer by a BJP leader. The case filed by Suresh Karamshi Nakhua alleges that Rathee called him a violent and abusive troll in a video posted by him. But who is Dhruv Rathee and why is he considered important? The YouTube journey of Dhruv Rathee Rathee is a 29-year-old Europe-based computer engineer and influencer. Apart from content creation, he teaches online courses on artificial intelligence apps like ChatGPT. Rathee started his YouTube channel while studying for a computer science course in Germany. In the initial years, he mostly documented his travels, speaking mainly in Hindi. Later, he started explainer videos on a multitude of subjects ranging from science, technology, history and the business world. He used to comment occasionally on politically sensitive subjects, like during the farmers' protests of 2020 and the release of the controversial film Kerala Story. Also read: Delhi court summons YouTuber Dhruv Rathee in defamation case But closer to the general elections in India this year, his channel took a political pivot and started sharing videos explicitly critical of the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and its ideological font RSS or Rashtriya Swayam Sevak Sangh. He did a series of videos alleging that the Modi government was showing signs of dictatorship, an allegation that the opposition parties led by Rahul Gandhi's Congress lapped up during the election campaign. While Rathee himself operated mainly from Europe, his political videos gained traction across social media platforms in India. At least some of them were shown on big screens in several cities and towns. Besides the YouTube channel, during the election season this summer, Rathee also created a WhatsApp channel, directly addressing his millions of followers to vote against the incumbent government. He also made his presence felt in Facebook, Instagram and X. Soon, Rathee started getting threats, as he claimed in his videos, and his critics challenged him to come to India. He did come to India during the elections and posted pictures from India Gate in the capital New Delhi. Also read: Salman Khan alleges Lawrence Bishnoi carried out firing outside his residence Born and brought up in the north Indian state of Haryana, Rathee comes from a family of farmers and soldiers, while his father is an engineer. He married Juli Lbr, a German in 2021 after seven years of relationship, and is expecting a baby with her in September. He has a separate travel vlog channel on YouTube. The court case of Dhruv Rathee The Saket Court in Indian capital Delhi issued the order to summon Rathee on July 19, on a complaint by Nakhua, who is a BJP spokesperson in the western city of Mumbai. The district judge Gunjan Gupta set August 6 as the date of hearing in the case. Also read: Zeenat Aman blasts brands for giving 'ludicrously low fees': I am more than a designer handbag Nakhua claimed in his petition that that Rathee “made bold and unsubstantiated claims” in one of his videos, which hurt his reputation. The complaint said that in the "cunningly crafted video, a deliberate campaign was made to besmirch his integrity and reputation while adding "baseless accusations and malicious connections are artfully insinuated." (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Dhruv Rathee, the YouTuber summoned by India court in defamation case?

<p>India's Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched an attack on&nbsp;the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, for his remarks over alleged leaks in the&nbsp;National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) 2024. On&nbsp;the first day of the Monsoon session of the Parliament, Gandhi pointed towards Pradhan and said the Education minister was blaming everyone but himself for the mess created in the examinations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pradhan, returning the fire, said Gandhi and his ilk were shedding 'crocodile tears' over the issue as UPA had a far worse record in conducting fair examinations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The LoP and his cabal are all but shedding crocodile tears. The ground reality on paper leaks during the UPA regime and when Shri Akhilesh was at the helm of UP, will open a can of worms for both Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav," Pradhan wrote on X (formerly Twitter).</p>

<p>"Maybe Rahul Gandhi understands the fundamentals and maths of unfair practices too well. That explains why the Congress govt. failed to implement the bills to stop malpractices in educational institutions, including the Prohibition of Unfair Practices Bill, of 2010," he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The LoP and his cabal are all but shedding crocodile tears. The ground reality on paper leaks during UPA regime and when Shri Akhilesh was at the helm of UP, will open a can of worms for both Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> and Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/yadavakhilesh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@yadavakhilesh</a>.<br />
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May be Rahul Gandhi understands the…</p>
— Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) <a href="https://twitter.com/dpradhanbjp/status/1815359112777245114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-rahul-gandhi-slams-modi-governments-education-system-743146">Watch |&nbsp;India: Rahul Gandhi slams Modi government's education system</a></strong></p>

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<h2><strong>What did Rahul Gandhi say?</strong></h2>

<p>Having been out of action the last week or so, Gandhi returned to action&nbsp;and immediately went for the jugular.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The minister has blamed everybody except himself. I don't even think he understands the fundamentals of what is going on here... the issue is that millions of students in this country are extremely concerned about what is going on and who is convinced that the Indian examination system is a fraud," Gandhi said.</p>

<p>"As this is a systemic issue, what exactly are you doing to fix this issue at the systemic level?," he asked Pradhan.</p>

<p>"Millions of people believe that if you are rich and you have money, you can buy the Indian examination system and this is the same feeling that the opposition has," Gandhi said while&nbsp;demanding a separate one-day discussion on the matter.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/neet-ug-scam-accused-who-stole-exam-paper-from-nta-trunk-in-jharkhand-arrested-741451"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;NEET-UG scam: Accused who stole exam paper from NTA trunk in Jharkhand arrested</strong></a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Supreme Court Bench led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud continued its hearing into the case on Monday and ordered the director of the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IIT Delhi) to set up a three-member panel of experts to review a contentious question from the NEET-UG 2024 medical entrance exam.</p>

<p>The National Testing Agency (NTA), responsible for conducting the exams, had awarded grace marks to certain students as the question purportedly had multiple correct answers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The apex court ordered the expert opinion to be placed before it by 12 noon on Tuesday (Jul 22).&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched an attack on the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, for his remarks over alleged leaks in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) 2024.

India's Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched an attack on the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, for his remarks over alleged leaks in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) 2024. On the first day of the Monsoon session of the Parliament, Gandhi pointed towards Pradhan and said the Education minister was blaming everyone but himself for the mess created in the examinations. Pradhan, returning the fire, said Gandhi and his ilk were shedding 'crocodile tears' over the issue as UPA had a far worse record in conducting fair examinations. "The LoP and his cabal are all but shedding crocodile tears. The ground reality on paper leaks during the UPA regime and when Shri Akhilesh was at the helm of UP, will open a can of worms for both Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav," Pradhan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). "Maybe Rahul Gandhi understands the fundamentals and maths of unfair practices too well. That explains why the Congress govt. failed to implement the bills to stop malpractices in educational institutions, including the Prohibition of Unfair Practices Bill, of 2010," he added. The LoP and his cabal are all but shedding crocodile tears. The ground reality on paper leaks during UPA regime and when Shri Akhilesh was at the helm of UP, will open a can of worms for both Shri @RahulGandhi and Shri @yadavakhilesh. May be Rahul Gandhi understands the… — Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) July 22, 2024 × Watch | India: Rahul Gandhi slams Modi government's education system × What did Rahul Gandhi say? Having been out of action the last week or so, Gandhi returned to action and immediately went for the jugular. "The minister has blamed everybody except himself. I don't even think he understands the fundamentals of what is going on here... the issue is that millions of students in this country are extremely concerned about what is going on and who is convinced that the Indian examination system is a fraud," Gandhi said. "As this is a systemic issue, what exactly are you doing to fix this issue at the systemic level?," he asked Pradhan. "Millions of people believe that if you are rich and you have money, you can buy the Indian examination system and this is the same feeling that the opposition has," Gandhi said while demanding a separate one-day discussion on the matter. Also read | NEET-UG scam: Accused who stole exam paper from NTA trunk in Jharkhand arrested Meanwhile, the Supreme Court Bench led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud continued its hearing into the case on Monday and ordered the director of the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IIT Delhi) to set up a three-member panel of experts to review a contentious question from the NEET-UG 2024 medical entrance exam. The National Testing Agency (NTA), responsible for conducting the exams, had awarded grace marks to certain students as the question purportedly had multiple correct answers. The apex court ordered the expert opinion to be placed before it by 12 noon on Tuesday (Jul 22). (With inputs from agencies)

‘Shedding crocodile tears‘: Pradhan tears into Rahul Gandhi over NEET remarks, says UPA record far worse

Slamming the Modi government over the handling of competitive exams, Congress leader Gandhi said the education minister had blamed everybody but himself over the alleged irregularities in the conduct of the NEET-UG exam. Watch in for more details!

India: Rahul Gandhi slams Modi government's education system

<p>Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian parliament)&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi shared a video of his visit to relief camps in the Indian state of Manipur&nbsp;on social media platform X&nbsp;and appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit the state which has been marred by the ethnic violence.</p>

<p>The Congress MP,&nbsp;on Thursday (July 11), in a five-minute-long video, emphasised that the violence-stricken state is still in distress.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shankaracharya-backs-rahul-gandhi-on-hindus-and-violence-speech-in-indian-parliament-video-goes-viral-738986">Shankaracharya backs Rahul Gandhi on ‘Hindus and violence’ speech in Indian parliament; video goes viral</a></p>

<p>“Houses are burning, innocent lives are in danger and thousands of families are forced to live in relief camps,” wrote&nbsp;Gandhi in the caption posted along with the video.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">मणिपुर में हिंसा शुरू होने के बाद, मैं तीसरी बार यहां आ चुका हूं, मगर अफसोस स्थिति में कोई सुधार नहीं है - आज भी प्रदेश दो टुकड़ों में बंटा हुआ है।<br />
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घर जल रहे हैं, मासूम ज़िंदगियां खतरे में हैं और हज़ारों परिवार relief camp में जीवन काटने पर मजबूर हैं।<br />
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प्रधानमंत्री को मणिपुर खुद… <a href="https://t.co/8EaJ2Tn6v8">pic.twitter.com/8EaJ2Tn6v8</a></p>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1811309180306829714?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Gandhi had visited Manipur for the third time since the ethnic violence broke out in the state in May 2023. He said that the state remains divided in two parts even today and appealed to PM Modi to make a visit to the state soon, lend his ears to the difficulties of the people and call for peace.</p>

<h2><strong>Rahul Gandhi hears laments of ethnic clashes</strong></h2>

<p>In the video shared Gandhi was seen consoling the people who expressed their troubles in the backdrop of the ethnic clashes in the state.</p>

<p>In the Jiribam relief camp in&nbsp;Manipur, one of the women was heard saying that her grandmother was stuck in a place of conflict and her whereabouts were unknown.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Even if we contact her, neither she can come here, nor we can go there," she added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, another woman at a relief camp in Thalai said that her brother died due to medical negligence. She added that there was no sufficient medical care available in the government hospitals which led to the death of her brother.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India: Rahul Gandhi visits relief camps in Manipur; first visit to the state as Leader of Opposition</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-rahul-gandhi-visits-relief-camps-in-manipur-first-visit-to-the-state-as-leader-of-opposition-739033/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Gandhi said that his Congress party will&nbsp;provide medicines at the camp. “If the government wants to end it (conflict), it can end very quickly,” he said while speaking at a relief camp in Churachandpur in Manipur.</p>

<p>“I can raise the issue and put pressure. But I can't assure you about going back. Because that question will be answered by the government. In the next session, I'll speak for you” he said, at the Moirang relief camp.</p>

<p>Violence broke out in Churachandpur on May 3 after Kukis marched in protest against the Manipur High Court's order in which the state government was directed to include the Meiteis in the Scheduled Tribes list.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The violence soon turned into a conflict between the Kukis and the Meiteis which has led to the deaths of&nbsp;more than 220 people.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian parliament) Rahul Gandhi shared a video of his visit to relief camps in the Indian state of Manipur on social media platform X and appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit the state which has been marred by the ethnic violence.

Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian parliament) Rahul Gandhi shared a video of his visit to relief camps in the Indian state of Manipur on social media platform X and appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit the state which has been marred by the ethnic violence. The Congress MP, on Thursday (July 11), in a five-minute-long video, emphasised that the violence-stricken state is still in distress. Also Read: Shankaracharya backs Rahul Gandhi on ‘Hindus and violence’ speech in Indian parliament; video goes viral “Houses are burning, innocent lives are in danger and thousands of families are forced to live in relief camps,” wrote Gandhi in the caption posted along with the video. मणिपुर में हिंसा शुरू होने के बाद, मैं तीसरी बार यहां आ चुका हूं, मगर अफसोस स्थिति में कोई सुधार नहीं है - आज भी प्रदेश दो टुकड़ों में बंटा हुआ है। घर जल रहे हैं, मासूम ज़िंदगियां खतरे में हैं और हज़ारों परिवार relief camp में जीवन काटने पर मजबूर हैं। प्रधानमंत्री को मणिपुर खुद… pic.twitter.com/8EaJ2Tn6v8 — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 11, 2024 × Gandhi had visited Manipur for the third time since the ethnic violence broke out in the state in May 2023. He said that the state remains divided in two parts even today and appealed to PM Modi to make a visit to the state soon, lend his ears to the difficulties of the people and call for peace. Rahul Gandhi hears laments of ethnic clashes In the video shared Gandhi was seen consoling the people who expressed their troubles in the backdrop of the ethnic clashes in the state. In the Jiribam relief camp in Manipur, one of the women was heard saying that her grandmother was stuck in a place of conflict and her whereabouts were unknown. “Even if we contact her, neither she can come here, nor we can go there," she added. Meanwhile, another woman at a relief camp in Thalai said that her brother died due to medical negligence. She added that there was no sufficient medical care available in the government hospitals which led to the death of her brother. Watch: India: Rahul Gandhi visits relief camps in Manipur; first visit to the state as Leader of Opposition Gandhi said that his Congress party will provide medicines at the camp. “If the government wants to end it (conflict), it can end very quickly,” he said while speaking at a relief camp in Churachandpur in Manipur. “I can raise the issue and put pressure. But I can't assure you about going back. Because that question will be answered by the government. In the next session, I'll speak for you” he said, at the Moirang relief camp. Violence broke out in Churachandpur on May 3 after Kukis marched in protest against the Manipur High Court's order in which the state government was directed to include the Meiteis in the Scheduled Tribes list. The violence soon turned into a conflict between the Kukis and the Meiteis which has led to the deaths of more than 220 people. (With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi says Manipur still 'burning', calls out PM Modi in five-minute-long video

<p>India's Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi has got backing from an unusual quarter for his controversial speech referring to some Hindus as 'violent': The Shankaracharya of Uttarakhand, a revered Hindu pontiff.</p>

<h2><strong>What did Rahul say?</strong></h2>

<p>On July 1, in his first speech as Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, the lower house of parliament, Gandhi said “those who call themselves Hindus indulge in hate and violence round the clock”.</p>

<p>He made the point while displaying photos of religious figures and deities including Lord Shiva and Sikhism's Guru Nanak.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">नेता विपक्ष राहुल गांधी के संसद में हिंदू वाले बयान पर ज्योतिष पीठ के शंकराचार्य अविमुक्तेश्वरानंद सरस्वती को सुनिए <a href="https://t.co/0p35TOivHT">pic.twitter.com/0p35TOivHT</a></p>
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<p>The remarks prompted an immediate interjection from Narendra Modi, a rare such move by the Indian prime minister.</p>

<p>Modi said: “The issue is a serious one, to call the entire Hindu community violent is serious.”</p>

<p>To this Gandhi retorted: “Narendra Modi ji is not the entire Hindu community, the BJP [the ruling party] is not the entire Hindu community, the RSS [the ideological font of BJP] is not the entire Hindu community”.</p>

<h2><strong>What did Shankaracharya say?</strong></h2>

<p>On Sunday (July 7), Swami Avimukteshwaranand, the 46th Shankaracharya of Jyotir Math in the northern state of Uttarakhand, appeared to back Gandhi.</p>

<p>"We listened attentively to Rahul Gandhi's entire speech. He unequivocally emphasises that Hinduism rejects violence," the Shankaracharya said.</p>

<p>He said those who are sharing parts of Gandhi's speech in a selective manner and distorting facts should be made accountable.</p>

<p>"Presenting only fragments of Gandhi's statement is misleading and unethical," he said in a video that has since gone viral.</p>

<h2>How the government is acting against Rahul Gandhi</h2>

<p>After a ruckus created by his remarks in parliament, the speaker&nbsp;Om Birla asked for expunging the relevant remarks from parliament records.</p>

<p>The government is also reportedly considering options to take action against Gandhi for his remarks.</p>

<p>Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju claimed Gandhi violated House rules and insulted the speaker.</p>

<p>"Action will follow as per the rule under which the notice or appeal has been made," he said last week.</p>

<h2><strong>Not the first time Shankaracharya didn't&nbsp;toe govt line</strong></h2>

<p>This is not the first time that Shankaracharyas, the four main clerics seen as custodians and guides of Hindu religion and its traditions, &nbsp;made their opinions heard.</p>

<p>The most recent one was during the Ayodhya Ram mandir inauguration earlier this year.</p>

<p>Swami Avimukteshwaranand had said at the time that the 'pran pratishtha' of the Ram Temple is being conducted even as the temple's construction was not complete.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He described the event, which was overseen by PM Modi this January, as a violation of religious scriptures.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is a Shankaracharya?</strong></h2>

<p>Shankaracharyas were religious leaders established by Adi Shankara, the 8th century saint from the southern state of Kerala, to spread Hindusim and the philosophy of Advaita (non-duality).</p>

<p>To spread the Hindu teachings, he set up four 'peethams' or religious monasteries in different regions of India.</p>

<p>Jyotir Math in Uttarakhand is one of them.</p>

<p>Shankaracharyas are the spiritual heads of these monasteries.</p>

<p>The other three peeths are located in Odisha, Karnataka and Gujarat. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Besides Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand, the other leaders of these monasteries are: Shankaracharya Swami Nischalananda Saraswati (Odisha), Shankaracharya Swami Sadanand Saraswati (Gujarat), and Shankaracharya Bharati Teerth (Karnataka).</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi has got backing from an unusual quarter for his controversial speech referring to some Hindus as 'violent': The Shankaracharya of Uttarakhand, a revered Hindu pontiff.

India's Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi has got backing from an unusual quarter for his controversial speech referring to some Hindus as 'violent': The Shankaracharya of Uttarakhand, a revered Hindu pontiff. What did Rahul say? On July 1, in his first speech as Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, the lower house of parliament, Gandhi said “those who call themselves Hindus indulge in hate and violence round the clock”. He made the point while displaying photos of religious figures and deities including Lord Shiva and Sikhism's Guru Nanak. नेता विपक्ष राहुल गांधी के संसद में हिंदू वाले बयान पर ज्योतिष पीठ के शंकराचार्य अविमुक्तेश्वरानंद सरस्वती को सुनिए pic.twitter.com/0p35TOivHT — Lutyens Media (@LutyensMediaIN) July 7, 2024 × The remarks prompted an immediate interjection from Narendra Modi, a rare such move by the Indian prime minister. Modi said: “The issue is a serious one, to call the entire Hindu community violent is serious.” To this Gandhi retorted: “Narendra Modi ji is not the entire Hindu community, the BJP [the ruling party] is not the entire Hindu community, the RSS [the ideological font of BJP] is not the entire Hindu community”. What did Shankaracharya say? On Sunday (July 7), Swami Avimukteshwaranand, the 46th Shankaracharya of Jyotir Math in the northern state of Uttarakhand, appeared to back Gandhi. "We listened attentively to Rahul Gandhi's entire speech. He unequivocally emphasises that Hinduism rejects violence," the Shankaracharya said. He said those who are sharing parts of Gandhi's speech in a selective manner and distorting facts should be made accountable. "Presenting only fragments of Gandhi's statement is misleading and unethical," he said in a video that has since gone viral. How the government is acting against Rahul Gandhi After a ruckus created by his remarks in parliament, the speaker Om Birla asked for expunging the relevant remarks from parliament records. The government is also reportedly considering options to take action against Gandhi for his remarks. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju claimed Gandhi violated House rules and insulted the speaker. "Action will follow as per the rule under which the notice or appeal has been made," he said last week. Not the first time Shankaracharya didn't toe govt line This is not the first time that Shankaracharyas, the four main clerics seen as custodians and guides of Hindu religion and its traditions, made their opinions heard. The most recent one was during the Ayodhya Ram mandir inauguration earlier this year. Swami Avimukteshwaranand had said at the time that the 'pran pratishtha' of the Ram Temple is being conducted even as the temple's construction was not complete. He described the event, which was overseen by PM Modi this January, as a violation of religious scriptures. Who is a Shankaracharya? Shankaracharyas were religious leaders established by Adi Shankara, the 8th century saint from the southern state of Kerala, to spread Hindusim and the philosophy of Advaita (non-duality). To spread the Hindu teachings, he set up four 'peethams' or religious monasteries in different regions of India. Jyotir Math in Uttarakhand is one of them. Shankaracharyas are the spiritual heads of these monasteries. The other three peeths are located in Odisha, Karnataka and Gujarat. Besides Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand, the other leaders of these monasteries are: Shankaracharya Swami Nischalananda Saraswati (Odisha), Shankaracharya Swami Sadanand Saraswati (Gujarat), and Shankaracharya Bharati Teerth (Karnataka). (With inputs from agencies)

Shankaracharya backs Rahul Gandhi on ‘Hindus and violence’ speech in Indian parliament; video goes viral

Leader of opposition and Congress MP, Rahul Gandhi visited Manipur today. Gandhi is on a one-day visit to Assam and Manipur. This is his first visit to the ethnic conflict-hit Manipur after becoming LoP. Watch in for more details!

India: Rahul Gandhi visits relief camps in Manipur; first visit to the state as Leader of Opposition

Leader of opposition and Congress MP, Rahul Gandhi visited Manipur today. Gandhi is on a one-day visit to Assam and Manipur. This is his first visit to the ethnic conflict-hit Manipur after becoming LoP.

Rahul Gandhi visits relief camps in Manipur; first visit to the state as Leader of Opposition

<p>Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha on Saturday (Jul&nbsp;6) reached out to the United Kingdom's Conservative Party leader Rishi Sunak and the newly elected Prime Minister Keir Starmer, addressing both on their recent electoral outcomes.</p>

<h2><strong>Commiserations to Sunak</strong></h2>

<p>In a letter to Indian-origin Rishi Sunak — the recently dethroned former UK PM — &nbsp;Gandhi expressed his sympathies regarding the Conservative Party's defeat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He remarked that "victories and setbacks are both an inevitable part of the journey in a democracy, and we must take both in our stride."</p>

<p><img alt="Rahul Gandhi, Rishi Sunak" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fe0971d8-defd-443e-98db-56226a0769c2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%20%2889%29.png" /></p>

<p>The Congress leader lauded Sunak's dedication to public service and his efforts to strengthen ties between India and the UK during his tenure as the British Prime Minister, and said: "I would like to extend my commiserations on the recent electoral outcome."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wholl-replace-rishi-sunak-as-next-tory-leader-here-are-the-top-five-candidates-738658">Who'll replace Rishi Sunak as next Tory leader? Here are the top five candidates</a></strong></p>

<p>"Your dedication to public service and commitment to your people are commendable. I also deeply value the efforts you made to strengthen the ties between India and the UK during your term in office," Gandhi wrote, as per the letter posted on social media platform X by his party members.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He expressed confidence that Sunak will continue to contribute to public life and said, "I wish you all the best for your future endeavours."</p>

<h2><strong>Congratulations to Starmer</strong></h2>

<p>Rahul Gandhi, in another letter, extended congratulations to the new UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer for his landslide victory in the general election.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Friday (Jul&nbsp;5) the Labour Party secured an impressive 412 seats in the 650-member House of Commons, marking their landslide victory.</p>

<p>In his letter, Gandhi praised the Labour Party's focus on economic growth.</p>

<p><img alt="Rahul Gandhi, Kier Starmer" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2dc53fd4-ed06-4443-a2b9-c4a02053925e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%20%2888%29.png" /></p>

<p>"I extend my heartiest congratulations on your remarkable electoral victory, a significant achievement for the Labour Party and for you personally. Your campaign's emphasis on economic growth with equality, better opportunities for all through stronger social services, and community empowerment clearly struck a chord with the people of the UK, reflecting their aspirations for a brighter future," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/straight-bat-smooth-drives-what-uks-election-culture-can-teach-india-738653">Straight bat, smooth drives: What UK's election culture can teach India&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>Furthermore, the Congress leader, said that he too believed in the same ideals stated by Labour in their campaign.</p>

<p>"As someone committed to these ideals, I congratulate you and the people of the UK for championing them. Your victory is a testament to the power of a politics that puts people first," he wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also emphasised the importance of continuing to strengthen the bilateral relationship between India and the UK.</p>

<p>"I wish you all the best for your tenure, and I look forward to meeting you in the near future," Rahul Gandhi concluded.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha on Saturday (Jul 6) reached out to the United Kingdom's Conservative Party leader Rishi Sunak and the newly elected Prime Minister Keir Starmer, addressing both on their recent electoral outcomes.

Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha on Saturday (Jul 6) reached out to the United Kingdom's Conservative Party leader Rishi Sunak and the newly elected Prime Minister Keir Starmer, addressing both on their recent electoral outcomes. Commiserations to Sunak In a letter to Indian-origin Rishi Sunak — the recently dethroned former UK PM — Gandhi expressed his sympathies regarding the Conservative Party's defeat. He remarked that "victories and setbacks are both an inevitable part of the journey in a democracy, and we must take both in our stride." The Congress leader lauded Sunak's dedication to public service and his efforts to strengthen ties between India and the UK during his tenure as the British Prime Minister, and said: "I would like to extend my commiserations on the recent electoral outcome." Also read | Who'll replace Rishi Sunak as next Tory leader? Here are the top five candidates "Your dedication to public service and commitment to your people are commendable. I also deeply value the efforts you made to strengthen the ties between India and the UK during your term in office," Gandhi wrote, as per the letter posted on social media platform X by his party members. He expressed confidence that Sunak will continue to contribute to public life and said, "I wish you all the best for your future endeavours." Congratulations to Starmer Rahul Gandhi, in another letter, extended congratulations to the new UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer for his landslide victory in the general election. On Friday (Jul 5) the Labour Party secured an impressive 412 seats in the 650-member House of Commons, marking their landslide victory. In his letter, Gandhi praised the Labour Party's focus on economic growth. "I extend my heartiest congratulations on your remarkable electoral victory, a significant achievement for the Labour Party and for you personally. Your campaign's emphasis on economic growth with equality, better opportunities for all through stronger social services, and community empowerment clearly struck a chord with the people of the UK, reflecting their aspirations for a brighter future," he said. Also read | Straight bat, smooth drives: What UK's election culture can teach India Furthermore, the Congress leader, said that he too believed in the same ideals stated by Labour in their campaign. "As someone committed to these ideals, I congratulate you and the people of the UK for championing them. Your victory is a testament to the power of a politics that puts people first," he wrote. He also emphasised the importance of continuing to strengthen the bilateral relationship between India and the UK. "I wish you all the best for your tenure, and I look forward to meeting you in the near future," Rahul Gandhi concluded. (With inputs from agencies)

'Politics that puts people first': Rahul Gandhi congratulates UK PM Starmer, extends sympathies to Rishi Sunak

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi reached Hathras in Uttar Pradesh. He met the families of victims who lost their lives in the tragic Hathras stampede that claimed 121 lives. Enroute to Hathras, Gandhi also stopped in Aligarh and met with families of the victims of the tragedy. Rahul Gandhi urged UP CM Yogi Adityanath to provide "maximum compensation" to the victims of the tragedy.

Rahul Gandhi in Hathras to meet stampede victims' families

Indian Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi caused a stir in the Lok Sabha by accusing supporters of the ruling BJP of promoting violence, hatred, and lies while claiming to be true Hindus. Prime Minister Narendra Modi interrupted his comments and stated that accusing the entire Hindu community of being violent was serious.

BJP seeks action against Rahul Gandhi, accuses Congress MP of violating house rules

<p>Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi is set to visit the site&nbsp;and meet the victims&nbsp;of a stampede which took place&nbsp;at a large religious gathering in northern India's&nbsp;Hathras district. He will also&nbsp;talk to those&nbsp;affected due&nbsp;to the&nbsp;unfortunate accident which led to the death of at least&nbsp;121 people&nbsp;on Tuesday (Jul 2).&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It was an unfortunate incident. The leader of the opposition in Lok Sabha (Rahul Gandhi) is planning to visit Hathras. He will go there and interact with the people who are affected.” Congress General Secretary, KC Venugopal said while addressing the media.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hathras-stampede-poor-planning-or-something-else-what-exactly-caused-the-commotion-737586">Hathras stampede: Poor planning or something else, what caused the commotion, tragedy?</a></strong></p>

<p>The incident took place during a 'Satsang' (religious congregation) held by Narayan Sakar Vishwa Hari, a preacher on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The permitted limit for the venue was 80,000 however, about 250,000&nbsp;people showed up which is said to have led&nbsp;to a stampede at the congregation.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Bhole Baba’ claimed he could revive dead, was arrested in 2000</strong></h2>

<p>Narayan Sakar Vishwa Hari, popularly known as 'Bhole Baba' is famous for his 'healing' powers. Bhole Baba was arrested back in 2000 when he forcibly took the body of a 16-year-old girl and claimed that he could bring her back to life with his superpowers.</p>

<p>Bhole Baba is a self-proclaimed religious leader,&nbsp;known for his 'magical' powers. His followers believe that he has the power to get rid of the "evil spirits" and alleviate them from their misery.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Almost 20 years after his arrest, he has been successful in building a strong follower base. Most of his followers are from low-income families.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hathras-stampede-death-toll-reaches-121-bhole-baba-still-at-large-737312">India stampede tragedy: UP CM Adityanath vows to punish those responsible for incident that claimed 121 lives</a></strong></p>

<p>They believe that Baba is the answer to all their problems,&nbsp;“Baba does not take or ask for anything. In his Satsang, he would tell us not to lie, and not to consume meat, fish, egg and alcohol,” Urmila Devi, who attended the Satsang told The Indian Express.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Bhole Baba does not come to rescue at a time of distress&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>After the Satsang was over, the followers rushed to collect dust from beneath Baba's car which triggered the stampede.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Narayan Sakar Vishwa Hari is not to be found after the incident, he has released a statement from an unknown location saying that he would cooperate with the investigators.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At a time of distress, when so many of his followers are admitted to the hospital Baba is nowhere to be found. This has caused the devotees to question his intentions and develop resentment towards him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If the baba really has powers and cares about us, he should come here and heal us. He should help us in treatment," a woman injured during the stampede said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi is set to visit the site and meet the victims of a stampede which took place at a large religious gathering in northern India's Hathras district.

Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi is set to visit the site and meet the victims of a stampede which took place at a large religious gathering in northern India's Hathras district. He will also talk to those affected due to the unfortunate accident which led to the death of at least 121 people on Tuesday (Jul 2). “It was an unfortunate incident. The leader of the opposition in Lok Sabha (Rahul Gandhi) is planning to visit Hathras. He will go there and interact with the people who are affected.” Congress General Secretary, KC Venugopal said while addressing the media. Also read | Hathras stampede: Poor planning or something else, what caused the commotion, tragedy? The incident took place during a 'Satsang' (religious congregation) held by Narayan Sakar Vishwa Hari, a preacher on Tuesday. The permitted limit for the venue was 80,000 however, about 250,000 people showed up which is said to have led to a stampede at the congregation. ‘Bhole Baba’ claimed he could revive dead, was arrested in 2000 Narayan Sakar Vishwa Hari, popularly known as 'Bhole Baba' is famous for his 'healing' powers. Bhole Baba was arrested back in 2000 when he forcibly took the body of a 16-year-old girl and claimed that he could bring her back to life with his superpowers. Bhole Baba is a self-proclaimed religious leader, known for his 'magical' powers. His followers believe that he has the power to get rid of the "evil spirits" and alleviate them from their misery. Almost 20 years after his arrest, he has been successful in building a strong follower base. Most of his followers are from low-income families. Also read | India stampede tragedy: UP CM Adityanath vows to punish those responsible for incident that claimed 121 lives They believe that Baba is the answer to all their problems, “Baba does not take or ask for anything. In his Satsang, he would tell us not to lie, and not to consume meat, fish, egg and alcohol,” Urmila Devi, who attended the Satsang told The Indian Express. Bhole Baba does not come to rescue at a time of distress After the Satsang was over, the followers rushed to collect dust from beneath Baba's car which triggered the stampede. Narayan Sakar Vishwa Hari is not to be found after the incident, he has released a statement from an unknown location saying that he would cooperate with the investigators. At a time of distress, when so many of his followers are admitted to the hospital Baba is nowhere to be found. This has caused the devotees to question his intentions and develop resentment towards him. "If the baba really has powers and cares about us, he should come here and heal us. He should help us in treatment," a woman injured during the stampede said. (With inputs from agencies)

India stampede tragedy: Rahul Gandhi to visit Hathras to meet victims' kin

<p>Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju indicated on Wednesday (July 3) that the government will request Speaker Om Birla to initiate privilege proceedings against Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha.</p>

<p>The union minister said that under Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha, the Speaker can direct a member to provide validation of claims made in the House, failing which the matter could head to a privilege committee.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Action will proceed according to the rule under which the notice or appeal has been made. According to the provisions of the rules, the Honourable Speaker can direct the member to provide details explaining why and under what circumstances he misled the House. The member may then need to substantiate his statements, apologize, or take whatever action is deemed necessary,” Rijiju told reporters.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/parliament-session-live-pm-modis-constitution-jibe-at-opposition-737367">Parliament Session highlights: Can’t hear the truth, says PM as Oppn stages walkout; Kharge hits back</a></p>

<p>“And, there are other means. If he fails to do anything then the Honourable Speaker may refer the matter to the Privilege Committee. I cannot speak on behalf of the Speaker, I can only make an appeal on behalf of the government,” the minister added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>LoP Rahul Gandhi’s speech, which he delivered in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday (July 2), had led to an&nbsp;outburst by the members of the Cabinet, including the Prime Minister, defence minister and home minister, among others.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gandhi locked horns with PM Modi on more than one instance during his speech. During the speech, home minister Amit Shah stood up to ask Speaker Om Birla for “protection”. “You are going over the rules to give them concessions, we need your protection,” Shah had urged the Speaker.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, told Speaker Om Birla, during his address as part of the Motion of Thanks debate, to take action against Gandhi.</p>

<p>"Parliament was misled yesterday ... We cannot safeguard parliamentary democracy without addressing what happened seriously. We should not dismiss these actions as merely childish ... I say this because the intentions behind them are not good," the Prime Minister had said.</p>

<p>Rijiju also said that after the various chants in the House during oath-taking, Speaker Om Birla formed a committee which has passed a new rule that henceforth no political chants will be allowed during oath-taking.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The oath-taking will be regulated, it is a solemn occasion,” Rijiju said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-adjourned-after-pm-modis-salvo-at-rahul-gandhis-hinduism-remark-737204">Lok Sabha adjourned after PM Modi fires salvo at Rahul Gandhi for his Hinduism remark</a></p>

<p>“It is fine to interrupt a few times in between but to constantly try and drown the Prime Minister’s address, it is unfortunate … It has never happened before. The Congress has to think that the Prime Minister leads the country, they should respect the chair,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>More than 50 members laid their speeches on the Table of the House and discussions of more than 18 hours took place.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the Rajya Sabha, during the 264th sitting, 76 members participated in the discussion on the Motion of Thanks on the President’s speech for over 21 hours, resulting in total productivity exceeding 100%.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju indicated on Wednesday (July 3) that the government will request Speaker Om Birla to initiate privilege proceedings against Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha.

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju indicated on Wednesday (July 3) that the government will request Speaker Om Birla to initiate privilege proceedings against Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha. The union minister said that under Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha, the Speaker can direct a member to provide validation of claims made in the House, failing which the matter could head to a privilege committee. “Action will proceed according to the rule under which the notice or appeal has been made. According to the provisions of the rules, the Honourable Speaker can direct the member to provide details explaining why and under what circumstances he misled the House. The member may then need to substantiate his statements, apologize, or take whatever action is deemed necessary,” Rijiju told reporters. Also read: Parliament Session highlights: Can’t hear the truth, says PM as Oppn stages walkout; Kharge hits back “And, there are other means. If he fails to do anything then the Honourable Speaker may refer the matter to the Privilege Committee. I cannot speak on behalf of the Speaker, I can only make an appeal on behalf of the government,” the minister added. LoP Rahul Gandhi’s speech, which he delivered in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday (July 2), had led to an outburst by the members of the Cabinet, including the Prime Minister, defence minister and home minister, among others. Gandhi locked horns with PM Modi on more than one instance during his speech. During the speech, home minister Amit Shah stood up to ask Speaker Om Birla for “protection”. “You are going over the rules to give them concessions, we need your protection,” Shah had urged the Speaker. On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, told Speaker Om Birla, during his address as part of the Motion of Thanks debate, to take action against Gandhi. "Parliament was misled yesterday ... We cannot safeguard parliamentary democracy without addressing what happened seriously. We should not dismiss these actions as merely childish ... I say this because the intentions behind them are not good," the Prime Minister had said. Rijiju also said that after the various chants in the House during oath-taking, Speaker Om Birla formed a committee which has passed a new rule that henceforth no political chants will be allowed during oath-taking. “The oath-taking will be regulated, it is a solemn occasion,” Rijiju said. Also read: Lok Sabha adjourned after PM Modi fires salvo at Rahul Gandhi for his Hinduism remark “It is fine to interrupt a few times in between but to constantly try and drown the Prime Minister’s address, it is unfortunate … It has never happened before. The Congress has to think that the Prime Minister leads the country, they should respect the chair,” he added. More than 50 members laid their speeches on the Table of the House and discussions of more than 18 hours took place. In the Rajya Sabha, during the 264th sitting, 76 members participated in the discussion on the Motion of Thanks on the President’s speech for over 21 hours, resulting in total productivity exceeding 100%. (With inputs from agencies)

Kiren Rijiju hints at possible privilege proceedings against Rahul Gandhi

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi in Lok Sabha, the lower house of Indian parliament directly elected by people. At the conclusion of the inaugural session of 18th Lok Sabha, the prime minister replied to Motion of Thanks to the President's address and described Gandhi&nbsp;— now a Leader of Opposition&nbsp;— as "<em>Balak Buddhi</em>"&nbsp;(a grown man with a child's mind).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reacting to Rahul Gandhi's speech in the parliament, the prime minister claimed that the Congress leader performed a "drama" to gain sympathy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Balak buddhi has been crying... this person hit me, that person hit me, I was hit here, I was hit there... this drama is being played to gain sympathy," said PM Modi.</p>

<p>"A person with a child's mind doesn't know what to say and how to behave...he (Rahul Gandhi) sometimes winks inside the Lok Sabha... the country now knows him well. The entire country is now telling him -- tumse na ho payega (you won't be able to perform)," PM Modi added.</p>

<p>Earlier on Monday (July 1), Rahul Gandhi attacked the government over a host of issues, including the raging NEET row as well as the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party's adherence to the true tenets of Hinduism. But parts of his speech were expunged by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla from the parliamentary records.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;NDA vs I.N.D.I.A: Showdown in Lok Sabha, political fireworks over NEET paper leak case</strong></p>

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<p>PM Modi further said that Rahul Gandhi is out on bail in a corruption case.</p>

<p>“...A new drama has been started to gain sympathy but the country knows the truth that he (Rahul Gandhi) is out on bail in a case of embezzlement of thousands of crores of rupees. He has been convicted in a case of calling OBC people thieves. He had to apologize after making an irresponsible statement in the Supreme Court,” he said.</p>

<p>Reacting to Rahul Gandhi's act of displaying a poster depicting Lord Shiva in the Lok Sabha, PM Modi said: "We will not be able to protect parliamentary democracy without taking seriously what happened yesterday. We should not ignore these acts by calling them childish, by considering them childish, we should not ignore them at all and I am saying this because the intentions behind this are not good and I also want to awaken the country," he added.</p>

<p>The prime minister&nbsp;said the Congress has been celebrating fake victory.</p>

<p>"I remember an incident, there was a boy who scored 99 marks and he used to show it to everyone. When people heard 99, they used to encourage him a lot. Then a teacher came and said why are you distributing sweets? He did not score 99 out of 100 but 99 out of 543. Now who will explain to that child that you have created a world record in failure," PM Modi said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-takes-on-speaker-birla-for-selective-expunction-demands-restoration-of-speech-737094">Rahul Gandhi targets Speaker Om Birla for ‘selective expunction’, demands restoration of speech</a></strong></p>

<p>The Lok Sabha was adjourned sine die after Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his reply to Motion of Thanks to the President’s address in the Lok Sabha.</p>

<p>Ahead of the adjournment, the Lok Sabha passed a resolution condemning opposition's disruptions during PM Modi's address.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi in Lok Sabha, the lower house of Indian parliament directly elected by people.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi in Lok Sabha, the lower house of Indian parliament directly elected by people. At the conclusion of the inaugural session of 18th Lok Sabha, the prime minister replied to Motion of Thanks to the President's address and described Gandhi — now a Leader of Opposition — as "Balak Buddhi" (a grown man with a child's mind). Reacting to Rahul Gandhi's speech in the parliament, the prime minister claimed that the Congress leader performed a "drama" to gain sympathy. "Balak buddhi has been crying... this person hit me, that person hit me, I was hit here, I was hit there... this drama is being played to gain sympathy," said PM Modi. "A person with a child's mind doesn't know what to say and how to behave...he (Rahul Gandhi) sometimes winks inside the Lok Sabha... the country now knows him well. The entire country is now telling him -- tumse na ho payega (you won't be able to perform)," PM Modi added. Earlier on Monday (July 1), Rahul Gandhi attacked the government over a host of issues, including the raging NEET row as well as the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party's adherence to the true tenets of Hinduism. But parts of his speech were expunged by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla from the parliamentary records. Also watch | NDA vs I.N.D.I.A: Showdown in Lok Sabha, political fireworks over NEET paper leak case × PM Modi further said that Rahul Gandhi is out on bail in a corruption case. “...A new drama has been started to gain sympathy but the country knows the truth that he (Rahul Gandhi) is out on bail in a case of embezzlement of thousands of crores of rupees. He has been convicted in a case of calling OBC people thieves. He had to apologize after making an irresponsible statement in the Supreme Court,” he said. Reacting to Rahul Gandhi's act of displaying a poster depicting Lord Shiva in the Lok Sabha, PM Modi said: "We will not be able to protect parliamentary democracy without taking seriously what happened yesterday. We should not ignore these acts by calling them childish, by considering them childish, we should not ignore them at all and I am saying this because the intentions behind this are not good and I also want to awaken the country," he added. The prime minister said the Congress has been celebrating fake victory. "I remember an incident, there was a boy who scored 99 marks and he used to show it to everyone. When people heard 99, they used to encourage him a lot. Then a teacher came and said why are you distributing sweets? He did not score 99 out of 100 but 99 out of 543. Now who will explain to that child that you have created a world record in failure," PM Modi said. Also read | Rahul Gandhi targets Speaker Om Birla for ‘selective expunction’, demands restoration of speech The Lok Sabha was adjourned sine die after Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his reply to Motion of Thanks to the President’s address in the Lok Sabha. Ahead of the adjournment, the Lok Sabha passed a resolution condemning opposition's disruptions during PM Modi's address. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha adjourned after PM Modi fires salvo at Rahul Gandhi for his Hinduism remark

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Jul 3) spoke in Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament, and assured strict action in the NEET paper leak row. He also accused the Opposition of doing politics over the future of the country's youth. PM Modi was responding to the Motion of Thanks on the President's address. He said, "The President mentioned the paper leak in her speech. I expect the entire house to rise above politics and discuss the issue. Unfortunately, it's being politicised, which is concerning for the country's future."</p>

<p>"I assure the youth of our country, this government will not spare those who cheat and scam you," the PM added.</p>

<p>"Action is being taken to hold accountable those who jeopardise the future of our youth," he added, stressing, "We have enacted strict laws and are strengthening the entire system".</p>

<h2><strong>PM attacks Congress</strong></h2>

<p>The PM in his speech also targeted India's main opposition Congress party and said the electorate rejected its propaganda in recently held general elections and voted for performance. He added the politics of misleading people has been handed defeat.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiF6eiE4oqHAxXeT2wGHWisBgQQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hathras-stampede-pm-modi-cm-adityanath-offers-condolences-737313" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/videos/hathras-stampede-pm-modi-cm-adityanath-offers-condolences-737313&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiF6eiE4oqHAxXeT2wGHWisBgQQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Hathras Stampede: PM Modi, CM Adityanath offers condolences</a></strong></p>

<p>"The country is watching that those who spread lies do not have the strength to hear the truth. Those who do not have the courage to face truth, do not have courage to listen to the answers to questions that were raised in these discussions. They are insulting the Upper House, the glorious tradition of the House," Modi said.</p>

<h2><strong>Opposition on NEET</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the opposition has been demanding a discussion on the NEET issue in the Parliament.</p>

<p>On Monday (Jul 1), the leader of the opposition Rahul Gandhi had urged the Speaker to allocate a day for discussion on NEET after the Motion of Thanks debate.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiF6eiE4oqHAxXeT2wGHWisBgQQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modis-visit-could-deepen-russian-trade-ties-with-india-says-kremlin-737172" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modis-visit-could-deepen-russian-trade-ties-with-india-says-kremlin-737172&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiF6eiE4oqHAxXeT2wGHWisBgQQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE">Kremlin says trade, economy on agenda during PM Modi`s `very important` visit to Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>The NEET controversy has engulfed the entire nation for over months now stemming from allegations of paper leaks. An investigation has been launched by the federal investigative agency CBI. The head of the National Testing Agency (NTA) has already been removed. The matter is now pending for hearing in the country's Supreme Court on July 8.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Jul 3) spoke in Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament, and assured strict action in the NEET paper leak row.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Jul 3) spoke in Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament, and assured strict action in the NEET paper leak row. He also accused the Opposition of doing politics over the future of the country's youth. PM Modi was responding to the Motion of Thanks on the President's address. He said, "The President mentioned the paper leak in her speech. I expect the entire house to rise above politics and discuss the issue. Unfortunately, it's being politicised, which is concerning for the country's future." "I assure the youth of our country, this government will not spare those who cheat and scam you," the PM added. "Action is being taken to hold accountable those who jeopardise the future of our youth," he added, stressing, "We have enacted strict laws and are strengthening the entire system". PM attacks Congress The PM in his speech also targeted India's main opposition Congress party and said the electorate rejected its propaganda in recently held general elections and voted for performance. He added the politics of misleading people has been handed defeat. Also read: Hathras Stampede: PM Modi, CM Adityanath offers condolences "The country is watching that those who spread lies do not have the strength to hear the truth. Those who do not have the courage to face truth, do not have courage to listen to the answers to questions that were raised in these discussions. They are insulting the Upper House, the glorious tradition of the House," Modi said. Opposition on NEET Meanwhile, the opposition has been demanding a discussion on the NEET issue in the Parliament. On Monday (Jul 1), the leader of the opposition Rahul Gandhi had urged the Speaker to allocate a day for discussion on NEET after the Motion of Thanks debate. Also read: Kremlin says trade, economy on agenda during PM Modi`s `very important` visit to Russia The NEET controversy has engulfed the entire nation for over months now stemming from allegations of paper leaks. An investigation has been launched by the federal investigative agency CBI. The head of the National Testing Agency (NTA) has already been removed. The matter is now pending for hearing in the country's Supreme Court on July 8. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi says people rejected propaganda in elections, vows action in NEET paper leak row

<p>The Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Indian Parliament's lower house, the Lok Sabha,&nbsp; Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday (Jul 2) wrote a letter to Speaker Om Birla and demanded he restore the expunged portion of his explosive Monday speech, the first as the LoP. In his letter, Gandhi accused Birla of carrying out “selective expunction” that "defies logic".</p>

<p>"I also wish to draw attention to the speech of Anurag Thakur, which was full of allegations, however, surprisingly only one word has been expunged! With due respect to your good self, this selective expunction defies logic," Gandhi wrote in the letter.</p>

<p>The Congress leader said a large portion of his speech was chopped off from the proceedings of the house.</p>

<p>"I am enclosing relevant portions of uncorrected Debates of Lok Sabha dated 2 July. I am constrained to state that the portions expunged do not come under the ambit of Rule 380. What I sought to convey in the House is ground reality, the factual position. Every member of the House who personifies the collective voice of the people whom he or she represents has the freedom of speech as enshrined in Article 105(1) of the Constitution of India. It is every member's right to raise people's concerns on the floor of the House," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjGheHBkoiHAxXkcGwGHcGIAPMQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/you-bowed-down-to-pm-modi-lop-rahul-gandhis-scathing-attack-on-speaker-om-birla-736766" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/you-bowed-down-to-pm-modi-lop-rahul-gandhis-scathing-attack-on-speaker-om-birla-736766&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjGheHBkoiHAxXkcGwGHcGIAPMQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">'You bowed down to PM Modi,' LoP Rahul Gandhi attacks Speaker Om Birla</a></strong></p>

<p>Gandhi said Birla's action&nbsp;“goes against the very tenets of parliamentary democracy.”<br />
<br />
"I request that the remarks expunged from the proceedings be restored," he added.</p>

<p>Speaker Om Birla had expunged Gandhi's remarks on the NEET paper leak row and the controversial Agnipath scheme from the records of the parliament. His remarks on Hinduism were also expunged.</p>

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<p>Gandhi also issued a statement on his remarks being expunged and while talking to reporters ahead of entering the Lok Sabha, he said "the truth can't be expunged".</p>

<p>"In Modi ji's world, truth can be expunged. But in reality, the truth can't be expunged. I said what I had to say, that is the truth. They can expunge as much as they want. Truth is truth," Gandhi said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Indian Parliament's lower house, the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday (Jul 2) wrote a letter to Speaker Om Birla and demanded he restore the expunged portion of his explosive Monday speech, the first as the LoP.

The Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Indian Parliament's lower house, the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday (Jul 2) wrote a letter to Speaker Om Birla and demanded he restore the expunged portion of his explosive Monday speech, the first as the LoP. In his letter, Gandhi accused Birla of carrying out “selective expunction” that "defies logic". "I also wish to draw attention to the speech of Anurag Thakur, which was full of allegations, however, surprisingly only one word has been expunged! With due respect to your good self, this selective expunction defies logic," Gandhi wrote in the letter. The Congress leader said a large portion of his speech was chopped off from the proceedings of the house. "I am enclosing relevant portions of uncorrected Debates of Lok Sabha dated 2 July. I am constrained to state that the portions expunged do not come under the ambit of Rule 380. What I sought to convey in the House is ground reality, the factual position. Every member of the House who personifies the collective voice of the people whom he or she represents has the freedom of speech as enshrined in Article 105(1) of the Constitution of India. It is every member's right to raise people's concerns on the floor of the House," he added. Also read: 'You bowed down to PM Modi,' LoP Rahul Gandhi attacks Speaker Om Birla Gandhi said Birla's action “goes against the very tenets of parliamentary democracy.” "I request that the remarks expunged from the proceedings be restored," he added. Speaker Om Birla had expunged Gandhi's remarks on the NEET paper leak row and the controversial Agnipath scheme from the records of the parliament. His remarks on Hinduism were also expunged. Also read: Rahul Gandhi`s sharp message to Om Birla in debut appearance as LoP; `Confident you`ll defend Constitution` Gandhi also issued a statement on his remarks being expunged and while talking to reporters ahead of entering the Lok Sabha, he said "the truth can't be expunged". "In Modi ji's world, truth can be expunged. But in reality, the truth can't be expunged. I said what I had to say, that is the truth. They can expunge as much as they want. Truth is truth," Gandhi said. (With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi targets Speaker Om Birla for ‘selective expunction’, demands restoration of speech

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) parliamentary party meeting on Tuesday (July 2). This was PM's first address to the MPs during the first session of Parliament since beginning his third term in office.</p>

<p>During the meeting, the Prime Minister advised all NDA MPs “not to act like Leader of Opposition(LoP) Rahul Gandhi in the Lok Sabha.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ</strong>:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-session-live-pm-modi-likely-to-respond-to-rahul-gandhis-explosive-speech-736977">Parliament Session LIVE: BJP misusing name of Hindutva, says Shashi Tharoor</a></p>

<p>Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, while speaking to reporters after the meeting said, "Prime Minister gave us an important mantra during the meet. He emphasised that every MP has been elected to the House to serve the nation. Regardless of the party they belong to, our first responsibility is to serve the nation."</p>

<p>"Every NDA MP has to work by prioritising the country, this is what the PM urged. Secondly, the PM guided us well regarding the conduct of MPs. He said that every MP should present the matters of their constituency in the House very well as per rules. He also told us to develop expertise in other major issues of interest - be it water, environment, social area. So, PM told us to develop expertise in those areas," Rijiju said.</p>

<p>"The Prime Minister further requested that every MP, along with their family, should visit the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya. At Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya, the journey from Pt Jawaharlal Nehru to PM Narendra Modi has been displayed in a beautiful manner. There is no political agenda...This is the first such effort that the entire country should get to know of the contribution of each PM, appreciate it, learn from it and pay tribute to them," the Union Minister said.</p>

<p>Rijiju further said, "The manner in which LoP Rahul Gandhi behaved yesterday, turned his back towards the Speaker, spoke out of rules and insulted the Speaker is something that people of our party, the NDA should not do..."</p>

<p>Earlier on Monday (July 1), the Lok Sabha was adjourned until 11 am on Tuesday (July 2).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhis-explosive-maiden-speech-as-leader-of-opposition-slamming-modi-expunged-partly-india-736953">Parts of Rahul Gandhi's explosive maiden speech as LoP slamming PM Narendra Modi expunged</a></p>

<p>Rahul Gandhi sparked controversy with his remarks on Hinduism.</p>

<p>Gandhi slammed PM Modi, who was present in the parliament, without directly naming him. Gandhi&nbsp;remarked, "Those who call themselves Hindu only talk about violence, hatred, untruth…Aap Hindu ho hi nahi (You are not a Hindu)."</p>

<p>PM Modi then condemned him for calling the entire Hindu community violent&nbsp;during his speech&nbsp;and said, "Calling the entire Hindu community violent is a very serious matter."</p>

<p>Later, Home Minister Amit Shah also demanded an apology from LoP Rahul Gandhi.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) parliamentary party meeting on Tuesday (July 2). This was PM's first address to the MPs during the first session of Parliament since beginning his third term in office.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) parliamentary party meeting on Tuesday (July 2). This was PM's first address to the MPs during the first session of Parliament since beginning his third term in office. During the meeting, the Prime Minister advised all NDA MPs “not to act like Leader of Opposition(LoP) Rahul Gandhi in the Lok Sabha.” ALSO READ: Parliament Session LIVE: BJP misusing name of Hindutva, says Shashi Tharoor Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, while speaking to reporters after the meeting said, "Prime Minister gave us an important mantra during the meet. He emphasised that every MP has been elected to the House to serve the nation. Regardless of the party they belong to, our first responsibility is to serve the nation." "Every NDA MP has to work by prioritising the country, this is what the PM urged. Secondly, the PM guided us well regarding the conduct of MPs. He said that every MP should present the matters of their constituency in the House very well as per rules. He also told us to develop expertise in other major issues of interest - be it water, environment, social area. So, PM told us to develop expertise in those areas," Rijiju said. "The Prime Minister further requested that every MP, along with their family, should visit the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya. At Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya, the journey from Pt Jawaharlal Nehru to PM Narendra Modi has been displayed in a beautiful manner. There is no political agenda...This is the first such effort that the entire country should get to know of the contribution of each PM, appreciate it, learn from it and pay tribute to them," the Union Minister said. Rijiju further said, "The manner in which LoP Rahul Gandhi behaved yesterday, turned his back towards the Speaker, spoke out of rules and insulted the Speaker is something that people of our party, the NDA should not do..." Earlier on Monday (July 1), the Lok Sabha was adjourned until 11 am on Tuesday (July 2). ALSO READ: Parts of Rahul Gandhi's explosive maiden speech as LoP slamming PM Narendra Modi expunged Rahul Gandhi sparked controversy with his remarks on Hinduism. Gandhi slammed PM Modi, who was present in the parliament, without directly naming him. Gandhi remarked, "Those who call themselves Hindu only talk about violence, hatred, untruth…Aap Hindu ho hi nahi (You are not a Hindu)." PM Modi then condemned him for calling the entire Hindu community violent during his speech and said, "Calling the entire Hindu community violent is a very serious matter." Later, Home Minister Amit Shah also demanded an apology from LoP Rahul Gandhi. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Don’t behave like Rahul Gandhi did in Lok Sabha’: PM Modi tells MPs at NDA parliamentary meet

A fiery exchange was witnessed in both houses of Parliament with the opposition demanding a discussion on the NEET controversy. The Congress alleged that Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi’s microphone was muted when he raised the NEET issue in Lok Sabha. Speaker Om Birla said that he does not switch off the microphone of MPs and has no such control. Watch in for more details!

NDA vs I.N.D.I.A: Showdown in Lok Sabha, political fireworks over NEET paper leak case

<p>Leader of Opposition (LoP) in Indian Parliament's lower house, Rahul Gandhi, on Monday (July 1) targeted Speaker Om Birla for his alleged bias towards the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as he highlighted how the Kota MP bowed down to Prime Minister Narendra Modi when he met him.</p>

<p>"I noticed something when you (Speaker Om Birla) shook my hand. When you shook my hand, you were standing upright. But when you shook Modiji's hand, you bowed down to him,"&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There is the speaker of Loksabha, the speaker of Indian Union &amp; there is Mr. Om Birla<br />
<br />
Speaker should not bow down in front of anybody, it’s a democracy.⚡️🔥<br />
<br />
—LoP Rahul Gandhi Ji shows his displeasure about the fact that Speaker Om Birla bowed down to Modi. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulGandhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulGandhi</a> <a href="https://t.co/fNRDRUzAds">pic.twitter.com/fNRDRUzAds</a></p>
— Ashish 𝕏|.... (@Ashishtoots) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ashishtoots/status/1807730453300080837?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>As Rahul spoke those words, the opposition bench erupted in cheers. However, the MPs sitting on the opposite flank didn't appear amused. The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) MPs, along with Home Minister Amit Shah, stood up and accused Gandhi of directly levelling allegations against the chair.</p>

<p>And then, Speaker Om Birla responded.</p>

<p>As he directed the ruling MPs to firmly sit in their chairs and not create a ruckus inside the parliament, he made it clear to Gandhi that bowing down to the PM merely showed his 'sanskaar' or values as Modi is elder to him.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwisjrnL34WHAxWszjgGHUhDBPIQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-slams-pm-narendra-modi-in-parliament-says-youre-not-a-hindu-736723" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-slams-pm-narendra-modi-in-parliament-says-youre-not-a-hindu-736723&amp;ved=2ahUKEwisjrnL34WHAxWszjgGHUhDBPIQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Rahul Gandhi slams PM Narendra Modi in parliament, says `you`re not a Hindu`</a></strong></p>

<p>"Hounrable Prime Minister is the leader of the House, and it is in my culture and morals that I bow down when I meet my elders and treat as equal those who are my age", the speaker said while responding to Gandhi.</p>

<p>"My morals are that we bow down to the elders and even touch their feet,"&nbsp;he added.</p>

<p>Reacting to Birla's statement, Gandhi further added he 'accepted the speaker's views' and that the entire opposition was ready to accept his supreme authority in the house.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwisjrnL34WHAxWszjgGHUhDBPIQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhis-sharp-message-to-om-birla-in-debut-appearance-as-lop-confident-youll-defend-constitution-735357" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhis-sharp-message-to-om-birla-in-debut-appearance-as-lop-confident-youll-defend-constitution-735357&amp;ved=2ahUKEwisjrnL34WHAxWszjgGHUhDBPIQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE">Rahul Gandhi`s sharp message to Om Birla in debut appearance as LoP; `Confident you`ll defend Constitution`</a></strong></p>

<p>"I duly, respectfully accept your views sir, but I want to tell you that there is no one bigger than the Speaker in the House," Gandhi said.</p>

<p>"The Speaker is above all in the House and we should all bow down before him/her,"&nbsp;he added.</p>

<p>"You are the Speaker and you should not bow down before anyone", Rahul Gandhi concluded.</p>

<p>Later, the government responded to Rahul Gandhi's speech in the parliament and accused him of spreading lies using his position as the leader of opposition.</p>

<p>Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said, "The position of Leader of Opposition is a very responsible position...Rahul ji has taken up a responsibility for the first time but despite taking up responsibility for the first time, today he has given very irresponsible statement. He said that no compensation is given to the martyrs, there can be no bigger lie than this. Today, when he was giving his speech, the Defence Minister clarified in the House itself that the martyrs get a compensation of Rs 1 crore. He should look at his facts. It is not that Congress has raised questions on the Army for the first time, Congress has always raised such questions on the Army and tried to mislead the country..."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | On Congress MP Rahul Gandhi's speech in Parliament, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw says, "The position of Leader of Opposition is a very responsible position...Rahul ji has taken up a responsibility for the first time but despite taking up responsibility for the first… <a href="https://t.co/9pzag4gJn6">pic.twitter.com/9pzag4gJn6</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1807752251416461673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Leader of Opposition (LoP) in Indian Parliament's lower house, Rahul Gandhi, on Monday (July 1) targeted Speaker Om Birla for his alleged bias towards the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as he highlighted how the Kota MP bowed down to Prime Minister Narendra Modi when he met him.

Leader of Opposition (LoP) in Indian Parliament's lower house, Rahul Gandhi, on Monday (July 1) targeted Speaker Om Birla for his alleged bias towards the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as he highlighted how the Kota MP bowed down to Prime Minister Narendra Modi when he met him. "I noticed something when you (Speaker Om Birla) shook my hand. When you shook my hand, you were standing upright. But when you shook Modiji's hand, you bowed down to him," Rahul Gandhi said. There is the speaker of Loksabha, the speaker of Indian Union & there is Mr. Om Birla Speaker should not bow down in front of anybody, it’s a democracy.⚡️🔥 —LoP Rahul Gandhi Ji shows his displeasure about the fact that Speaker Om Birla bowed down to Modi. #RahulGandhi pic.twitter.com/fNRDRUzAds — Ashish 𝕏|.... (@Ashishtoots) July 1, 2024 × As Rahul spoke those words, the opposition bench erupted in cheers. However, the MPs sitting on the opposite flank didn't appear amused. The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) MPs, along with Home Minister Amit Shah, stood up and accused Gandhi of directly levelling allegations against the chair. And then, Speaker Om Birla responded. As he directed the ruling MPs to firmly sit in their chairs and not create a ruckus inside the parliament, he made it clear to Gandhi that bowing down to the PM merely showed his 'sanskaar' or values as Modi is elder to him. Also read: Rahul Gandhi slams PM Narendra Modi in parliament, says `you`re not a Hindu` "Hounrable Prime Minister is the leader of the House, and it is in my culture and morals that I bow down when I meet my elders and treat as equal those who are my age", the speaker said while responding to Gandhi. "My morals are that we bow down to the elders and even touch their feet," he added. Reacting to Birla's statement, Gandhi further added he 'accepted the speaker's views' and that the entire opposition was ready to accept his supreme authority in the house. Also read: Rahul Gandhi`s sharp message to Om Birla in debut appearance as LoP; `Confident you`ll defend Constitution` "I duly, respectfully accept your views sir, but I want to tell you that there is no one bigger than the Speaker in the House," Gandhi said. "The Speaker is above all in the House and we should all bow down before him/her," he added. "You are the Speaker and you should not bow down before anyone", Rahul Gandhi concluded. Later, the government responded to Rahul Gandhi's speech in the parliament and accused him of spreading lies using his position as the leader of opposition. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said, "The position of Leader of Opposition is a very responsible position...Rahul ji has taken up a responsibility for the first time but despite taking up responsibility for the first time, today he has given very irresponsible statement. He said that no compensation is given to the martyrs, there can be no bigger lie than this. Today, when he was giving his speech, the Defence Minister clarified in the House itself that the martyrs get a compensation of Rs 1 crore. He should look at his facts. It is not that Congress has raised questions on the Army for the first time, Congress has always raised such questions on the Army and tried to mislead the country..." #WATCH | On Congress MP Rahul Gandhi's speech in Parliament, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw says, "The position of Leader of Opposition is a very responsible position...Rahul ji has taken up a responsibility for the first time but despite taking up responsibility for the first… pic.twitter.com/9pzag4gJn6 — ANI (@ANI) July 1, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

‘You bowed down to PM Modi,’ LoP Rahul Gandhi attacks Speaker Om Birla

NEET Row: Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla dismisses Congress' allegations

<p>Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the 18th Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (June 27) met Speaker Om Birla and expressed disapproval over the chair's mention of the 1975 Emergency stating that it was "clearly political".</p>

<p>Gandhi along with other INDIA bloc leaders raised the issue in a courtesy call, said Congress general secretary K C Venugopal.</p>

<p>"It was a courtesy call. The Speaker declared Rahul Gandhi as the Leader of Opposition and after that, he along with other INDIA bloc partner leaders met the Speaker," he said.</p>

<p>Venugopal said that Gandhi voiced his displeasure over the Emergency reference and stated that it "could have been avoided" in his meeting with Birla.</p>

<p>"Rahul ji, as Leader of Opposition, informed the Speaker about this issue and said it could have been avoided from the Speaker's reference. That is clearly a political reference, it could have been avoided," the Congress leader further said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhis-sharp-message-to-om-birla-in-debut-appearance-as-lop-confident-youll-defend-constitution-735357">Also read:&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi's sharp message to Om Birla in debut appearance as LoP; 'Confident you'll defend Constitution'</a></p>

<h2><strong>Venugopal writes to Speaker expressing Congress' displeasure&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Venugopal wrote a letter to Birla voicing the Congress party's displeasure&nbsp;over the Emergency reference.</p>

<p>"I am writing this in the context of a very grave matter impacting the very credibility of the institution of Parliament. Yesterday, that is 26 June 2024, at the time of offering felicitations on your election as Speaker Lok Sabha, there was a general camaraderie in the House as such occasions generate," Venugopal said in his letter to the Speaker.</p>

<p>"However, what followed thereafter, which is a reference from the Chair after your acceptance speech, in regard to the declaration of Emergency half a century ago, is deeply shocking. Making such a political reference from the Chair is unprecedented in the annals of the history of Parliament. This coming from the Chair as one of the 'first duties' of a newly elected Speaker assumes even graver proportions," he added.</p>

<p>"I, on behalf of the Indian National Congress, express our profound concern and anguish over this travesty of Parliamentary traditions," he further said.</p>

<h2><strong>Om Birla condemns Emergency period, calls it 'black chapter' in history of India</strong></h2>

<p>Birla terming June 25, 1975, as a "black chapter" in the history of India, condemned the Congress-led government's decision to impose an Emergency stating that the move by the grand old party "attacked the Constitution".</p>

<p>The speaker, in his address to the house on Wednesday (June 26), hailed the individuals who opposed the Emergency and fought to safeguard the democracy of India.</p>

<p>"This House strongly condemns the decision to impose Emergency in 1975. Along with this, we appreciate the determination of all those people who opposed the Emergency, fought and fulfilled the responsibility of protecting the democracy of India. 25th June 1975 will always be known as a black chapter in the history of India," Birla said.</p>

<p>"On this day, the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi imposed an Emergency in the country and attacked the Constitution made by Baba Saheb Ambedkar. India is known all over the world as the mother of democracy. Democratic values and debate have always been supported in India. Democratic values have always been protected, they have always been encouraged. Dictatorship was imposed on such an India by Indira Gandhi. The democratic values of India were crushed and freedom of expression was strangled," he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the 18th Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (June 27) met Speaker Om Birla and expressed disapproval over the chair's mention of the 1975 Emergency stating that it was "clearly political".

Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the 18th Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (June 27) met Speaker Om Birla and expressed disapproval over the chair's mention of the 1975 Emergency stating that it was "clearly political". Gandhi along with other INDIA bloc leaders raised the issue in a courtesy call, said Congress general secretary K C Venugopal. "It was a courtesy call. The Speaker declared Rahul Gandhi as the Leader of Opposition and after that, he along with other INDIA bloc partner leaders met the Speaker," he said. Venugopal said that Gandhi voiced his displeasure over the Emergency reference and stated that it "could have been avoided" in his meeting with Birla. "Rahul ji, as Leader of Opposition, informed the Speaker about this issue and said it could have been avoided from the Speaker's reference. That is clearly a political reference, it could have been avoided," the Congress leader further said. Also read: Rahul Gandhi's sharp message to Om Birla in debut appearance as LoP; 'Confident you'll defend Constitution' Venugopal writes to Speaker expressing Congress' displeasure Venugopal wrote a letter to Birla voicing the Congress party's displeasure over the Emergency reference. "I am writing this in the context of a very grave matter impacting the very credibility of the institution of Parliament. Yesterday, that is 26 June 2024, at the time of offering felicitations on your election as Speaker Lok Sabha, there was a general camaraderie in the House as such occasions generate," Venugopal said in his letter to the Speaker. "However, what followed thereafter, which is a reference from the Chair after your acceptance speech, in regard to the declaration of Emergency half a century ago, is deeply shocking. Making such a political reference from the Chair is unprecedented in the annals of the history of Parliament. This coming from the Chair as one of the 'first duties' of a newly elected Speaker assumes even graver proportions," he added. "I, on behalf of the Indian National Congress, express our profound concern and anguish over this travesty of Parliamentary traditions," he further said. Om Birla condemns Emergency period, calls it 'black chapter' in history of India Birla terming June 25, 1975, as a "black chapter" in the history of India, condemned the Congress-led government's decision to impose an Emergency stating that the move by the grand old party "attacked the Constitution". The speaker, in his address to the house on Wednesday (June 26), hailed the individuals who opposed the Emergency and fought to safeguard the democracy of India. "This House strongly condemns the decision to impose Emergency in 1975. Along with this, we appreciate the determination of all those people who opposed the Emergency, fought and fulfilled the responsibility of protecting the democracy of India. 25th June 1975 will always be known as a black chapter in the history of India," Birla said. "On this day, the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi imposed an Emergency in the country and attacked the Constitution made by Baba Saheb Ambedkar. India is known all over the world as the mother of democracy. Democratic values and debate have always been supported in India. Democratic values have always been protected, they have always been encouraged. Dictatorship was imposed on such an India by Indira Gandhi. The democratic values of India were crushed and freedom of expression was strangled," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Congress hits back after Speaker Om Birla calls Emergency period 'black chapter' in history of India

<p>Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition, shook hands with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Jun 26) when they were welcoming the newly re-elected Lok Sabha Speaker, Om Birla, in the 18th Lok Sabha.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Om Birla, three-time Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP, was elected the Lok Sabha Speaker for the second time on Wednesday as he defeated the INDIA bloc's candidate Kodikunnil Suresh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the House, Birla was congratulated by the lawmakers, with PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju escorting Birla to the chair.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-pm-modi-receives-two-special-visitors-at-his-office-in-parliament-who-are-they-735384">WATCH: PM Modi receives two special visitors at his office in Parliament, who are they?</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Time wields immense power, compelling even the greatest to bow before it.<br />
<br />
From 'Who is Rahul?' to a handshake—what a journey! <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> ji! <a href="https://t.co/4sIT60yrnl">pic.twitter.com/4sIT60yrnl</a></p>
— 𝘼𝙢𝙞𝙩 (@AmitYji127) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitYji127/status/1805870534741443039?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The rare and sweet gesture reminded netizens of the famous hug moment when Rahul Gandhi surprised his political foe in the parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Congress leader walked across the green-carpeted well of Lok Sabha, went straight up to PM Modi and hugged him. The gesture took the entire House by surprise. He made the gesture after a scathing speech targeted at Modi&nbsp;government, during a no-confidence motion.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhis-sharp-message-to-om-birla-in-debut-appearance-as-lop-confident-youll-defend-constitution-735357">Rahul Gandhi's sharp message to Om Birla in debut appearance as LoP; 'Confident you'll defend Constitution'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch the old video here:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Time wields immense power, compelling even the greatest to bow before it.<br />
<br />
From 'Who is Rahul?' to a handshake—what a journey! <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> ji! <a href="https://t.co/4sIT60yrnl">pic.twitter.com/4sIT60yrnl</a></p>
— 𝘼𝙢𝙞𝙩 (@AmitYji127) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitYji127/status/1805870534741443039?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>National Democratic Alliance (NDA) nominee Birla was elected as the Lok Sabha speaker after a motion moved by PM Modi was adopted through voice votes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pro-tem Speaker B Mahtab made the announcement after the opposition, which had proposed Congress MP Suresh as its candidate, did not press for votes to the motion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I announce Om Birla elected as the speaker," Mahtab said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Om&nbsp;Birla's second consecutive term</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Birla gets a second consecutive term in the chair, the fifth time that a speaker will serve beyond the tenure of one Lok Sabha. It is also among the few occasions that an election became necessary for a post conventionally decided by consensus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his address, Modi said Birla's work as a parliamentarian should be an inspiration for new Lok Sabha members.</p>

<p>"It is a matter of honour that you have been elected to this chair for a second time," the prime minister said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I congratulate you on behalf of the entire House and look forward to your guidance for next five years," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition, shook hands with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Jun 26) when they were welcoming the newly re-elected Lok Sabha Speaker, Om Birla, in the 18th Lok Sabha.

Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition, shook hands with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Jun 26) when they were welcoming the newly re-elected Lok Sabha Speaker, Om Birla, in the 18th Lok Sabha. Om Birla, three-time Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP, was elected the Lok Sabha Speaker for the second time on Wednesday as he defeated the INDIA bloc's candidate Kodikunnil Suresh. In the House, Birla was congratulated by the lawmakers, with PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju escorting Birla to the chair. Also read: WATCH: PM Modi receives two special visitors at his office in Parliament, who are they? Watch the video here: Time wields immense power, compelling even the greatest to bow before it. From 'Who is Rahul?' to a handshake—what a journey! @RahulGandhi ji! pic.twitter.com/4sIT60yrnl — 𝘼𝙢𝙞𝙩 (@AmitYji127) June 26, 2024 × The rare and sweet gesture reminded netizens of the famous hug moment when Rahul Gandhi surprised his political foe in the parliament. The Congress leader walked across the green-carpeted well of Lok Sabha, went straight up to PM Modi and hugged him. The gesture took the entire House by surprise. He made the gesture after a scathing speech targeted at Modi government, during a no-confidence motion. Also read: Rahul Gandhi's sharp message to Om Birla in debut appearance as LoP; 'Confident you'll defend Constitution' Watch the old video here: Time wields immense power, compelling even the greatest to bow before it. From 'Who is Rahul?' to a handshake—what a journey! @RahulGandhi ji! pic.twitter.com/4sIT60yrnl — 𝘼𝙢𝙞𝙩 (@AmitYji127) June 26, 2024 × National Democratic Alliance (NDA) nominee Birla was elected as the Lok Sabha speaker after a motion moved by PM Modi was adopted through voice votes. Pro-tem Speaker B Mahtab made the announcement after the opposition, which had proposed Congress MP Suresh as its candidate, did not press for votes to the motion. "I announce Om Birla elected as the speaker," Mahtab said. Om Birla's second consecutive term Birla gets a second consecutive term in the chair, the fifth time that a speaker will serve beyond the tenure of one Lok Sabha. It is also among the few occasions that an election became necessary for a post conventionally decided by consensus. In his address, Modi said Birla's work as a parliamentarian should be an inspiration for new Lok Sabha members. "It is a matter of honour that you have been elected to this chair for a second time," the prime minister said. "I congratulate you on behalf of the entire House and look forward to your guidance for next five years," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Video: Rahul-Modi handshake in Lok Sabha reminds of this 2018 rare hug moment

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