The Supreme Court on Friday refused to entertain a plea seeking setting up of a three-judge panel to inquire into the conduct of former Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi as a judge of the apex court.

Gogoi is now a Rajya Sabha MP.

A bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra termed as "infructuous" the public interest litigation (PIL), and said the petitioner did not press for a hearing in last two years and moreover, now Justice (retd) Gogoi has already demitted office.

"Why did not you (petitioner) press it for hearing in the last two years? This plea has become infructuous as he has demitted office," the bench, also comprising Justices B R Gavai and Krishna Murari, said.

"Sorry we can't entertain," the bench told petitioner Arun Ramchandra Hublikar, who had sought inquiry into the alleged "omission and commission" by Justice (retd) Gogoi as a judge of the apex court.

The petitioner claimed before the bench that he had met the secretary general of the top court for listing of his plea but it was not listed.

Justice Gogoi, the first person from the northeast to reach the top of judiciary and credited for bringing the curtains down on the decades old politically and religiously sensitive Ayodhya land dispute, had retired as the CJI on November 17 last year.

The Supreme Court on Friday refused to entertain a plea seeking setting up of a three-judge panel to inquire into the conduct of former Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi as a judge of the apex court.

The Supreme Court on Friday refused to entertain a plea seeking setting up of a three-judge panel to inquire into the conduct of former Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi as a judge of the apex court. Gogoi is now a Rajya Sabha MP. A bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra termed as "infructuous" the public interest litigation (PIL), and said the petitioner did not press for a hearing in last two years and moreover, now Justice (retd) Gogoi has already demitted office. "Why did not you (petitioner) press it for hearing in the last two years? This plea has become infructuous as he has demitted office," the bench, also comprising Justices B R Gavai and Krishna Murari, said. "Sorry we can't entertain," the bench told petitioner Arun Ramchandra Hublikar, who had sought inquiry into the alleged "omission and commission" by Justice (retd) Gogoi as a judge of the apex court. The petitioner claimed before the bench that he had met the secretary general of the top court for listing of his plea but it was not listed. Justice Gogoi, the first person from the northeast to reach the top of judiciary and credited for bringing the curtains down on the decades old politically and religiously sensitive Ayodhya land dispute, had retired as the CJI on November 17 last year.

Supreme Court rejects plea seeking inquiry into conduct of former CJI Ranjan Gogoi as judge

Around 21 more Congress legislators from Gujarat have been shifted to a private resort in Rajasthan ahead of the Rajya Sabha elections in the state. The Congress has 65 MLAs in Gujarat, some of whom have already been packed off to different resorts.

Around 21 more Congress legislators from Gujarat have been shifted to a private resort in Rajasthan ahead of the Rajya Sabha elections in the state. The Congress has 65 MLAs in Gujarat, some of whom have already been packed off to different resorts. The party decided to take action after two of its MLAs resigned on June 4. A third resigned a day later. Patan MLA Kirit Patel said those who wanted to leave the Congress had left. "Now we are all together. No one can lure us," he said. Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has questioned the Congress move of shifting MLAs to Rajasthan amid the lockdown. "The shifting of MLAs to a resort in Rajasthan shows how much pressure the Congress must be under in the present circumstances. Even the party high command didn`t think of lockdown norms and sent MLAs to Rajasthan knowing well about the coronavirus risk for these many people," said a BJP leader. Earlier too, Gujarat MLAs had been shifted to a Jaipur resort to prevent poaching when the elections were scheduled for March 26. The Rajya Sabha elections to 18 seats were postponed due to lockdown. It`s now scheduled on June 19. MLAs will vote for 4 seats in Gujarat and 3 in Rajasthan.

Congress shifts 25 Gujarat MLAs to Rajasthan to prevent poaching

The Election Commission of India has postponed the Rajya Sabha elections due to the threat of coronavirus.&nbsp;

The 18 Rajya Sabha seats of seven states were to be polled on March 26. It is accepted that now the new date of polls will be discharged simply in the wake of getting alleviation from COVID-19.

A total of 55 Rajya Sabha seats of 17 states were being vacated in April. On March 26, the Commission issued notification for elections to these seats. Most of the seats in several states including Haryana, Himachal Pradesh have been elected unopposed. Only 18 Rajya Sabha seats were to be elected through voting.

Nearly 500 coronavirus cases have been reported in India so far, according to Health Ministry data on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, as many as 30 states/UTs have been placed under complete lockdown even as the number of coronavirus COVID-19 cases have reached 471 across India by Monday evening. The death toll from the highly contagious infection stood at nine.

The Centre has also decided to restrict all domestic transport services—railways, flights and interstate buses—across the country on a massive scale that has never been witnessed by the country.

All domestic flights from midnight on March 24 have been cancelled. However, these restrictions will not apply to cargo flights.

"Airlines have to plan operations so as to land at their destination before 2359 hours on 24/3/2020," the Ministry said in a statement.

The deadly coronavirus has claimed 16,524 lives and infected 379,080 people globally. &nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Election Commission of India has postponed the Rajya Sabha elections due to the threat of coronavirus. The 18 Rajya Sabha seats of seven states were to be polled on March 26.

The Election Commission of India has postponed the Rajya Sabha elections due to the threat of coronavirus. The 18 Rajya Sabha seats of seven states were to be polled on March 26. It is accepted that now the new date of polls will be discharged simply in the wake of getting alleviation from COVID-19. A total of 55 Rajya Sabha seats of 17 states were being vacated in April. On March 26, the Commission issued notification for elections to these seats. Most of the seats in several states including Haryana, Himachal Pradesh have been elected unopposed. Only 18 Rajya Sabha seats were to be elected through voting. Nearly 500 coronavirus cases have been reported in India so far, according to Health Ministry data on Tuesday. Meanwhile, as many as 30 states/UTs have been placed under complete lockdown even as the number of coronavirus COVID-19 cases have reached 471 across India by Monday evening. The death toll from the highly contagious infection stood at nine. The Centre has also decided to restrict all domestic transport services—railways, flights and interstate buses—across the country on a massive scale that has never been witnessed by the country. All domestic flights from midnight on March 24 have been cancelled. However, these restrictions will not apply to cargo flights. "Airlines have to plan operations so as to land at their destination before 2359 hours on 24/3/2020," the Ministry said in a statement. The deadly coronavirus has claimed 16,524 lives and infected 379,080 people globally. (With inputs from agencies)

Rajya Sabha election scheduled for March 26 postponed amid Covid-19 lockdown

Former Union minister and BJP leader Jyotiraditya Scindia on Friday filed his nomination here for the March 26 Rajya Sabha elections.

From the Madhya Pradesh BJP office, Scindia reached the state Assembly secretariat around 2 pm and submitted his papers to the returning officer, Vidhan Sabha principal secretary A P Singh.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jyotiraditya-scindia-will-help-in-strengthening-bjp-says-rajnath-singh-285802"> Jyotiraditya Scindia will help in strengthening BJP, says Rajnath Singh</a>

Former Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, state BJP president V D Sharma, outgoing Rajya Sabha MP Prabhat Jha and other party BJP leaders were present on the occasion.

Before reaching the BJP office, Scindia had lunch at the residence of former minister Narottam Mishra along with other party leaders.

The former Lok Sabha MP from Guna also called on his paternal aunt and BJP MLA Yashodhara Raje Scindia in the morning.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jyotiraditya-scindia-formally-joins-bjp-in-presence-of-party-president-jp-nadda-285606">Jyotiraditya Scindia formally joins BJP in presence of party president JP Nadda</a>

On Thursday night, Scindia attended a dinner hosted by Chouhan.

On Wednesday, the BJP named Scindia as its Rajya Sabha candidate from Madhya Pradesh soon after he joined the party.

After resigning from Congress on Tuesday morning, Scindia joined the BJP in presence of party president J P Nadda in Delhi.

Three Rajya Sabha seats from Madhya Pradesh, currently held by Congress veteran Digvijaya Singh, and BJP leaders Prabhat Jha and Satyanarayan Jatiya, are falling vacant next month. The Congress has re-nominated Singh.

Former Union minister and BJP leader Jyotiraditya Scindia on Friday filed his nomination here for the March 26 Rajya Sabha elections. From the Madhya Pradesh BJP office, Scindia reached the state Assembly secretariat around 2 pm and submitted his papers to the returning officer, Vidhan Sabha principal secretary A P Singh.

Former Union minister and BJP leader Jyotiraditya Scindia on Friday filed his nomination here for the March 26 Rajya Sabha elections. From the Madhya Pradesh BJP office, Scindia reached the state Assembly secretariat around 2 pm and submitted his papers to the returning officer, Vidhan Sabha principal secretary A P Singh. Also Read: Jyotiraditya Scindia will help in strengthening BJP, says Rajnath Singh Former Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, state BJP president V D Sharma, outgoing Rajya Sabha MP Prabhat Jha and other party BJP leaders were present on the occasion. Before reaching the BJP office, Scindia had lunch at the residence of former minister Narottam Mishra along with other party leaders. The former Lok Sabha MP from Guna also called on his paternal aunt and BJP MLA Yashodhara Raje Scindia in the morning. Also Read: Jyotiraditya Scindia formally joins BJP in presence of party president JP Nadda On Thursday night, Scindia attended a dinner hosted by Chouhan. On Wednesday, the BJP named Scindia as its Rajya Sabha candidate from Madhya Pradesh soon after he joined the party. After resigning from Congress on Tuesday morning, Scindia joined the BJP in presence of party president J P Nadda in Delhi. Three Rajya Sabha seats from Madhya Pradesh, currently held by Congress veteran Digvijaya Singh, and BJP leaders Prabhat Jha and Satyanarayan Jatiya, are falling vacant next month. The Congress has re-nominated Singh.

Jyotiraditya Scindia files nomination for Rajya Sabha elections

Rajya Sabha Chairman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/make-people-equal-partners-in-development-process-vice-president-venkaiah-naidu-to-ias-officers-249264">M Venkaiah Naidu</a> suggested to all concerned to ensure submission of reports on Demands for Grants of various Ministries by the Department Related Standing Committees (DRSCs) before the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/feel-good-budget-may-see-cut-in-tax-rate-sops-for-social-sectors-277884">budget</a> is approved by the Parliament.

He said submission of such reports later would not give time for the government to consider the recommendations made by the committees in respect of various ministries.

Naidu spoke on the need for timely submission of reports at a meeting of leaders of various parties in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-passes-citizenship-amendment-bill-267747">Rajya Sabha</a> at his residence coinciding with the start of the budget session.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/feel-good-budget-may-see-cut-in-tax-rate-sops-for-social-sectors-277884">'Feel good' budget may see cut in tax rate, sops for social sectors</a>

The Chairman urged Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Prahlad Joshi to talk to all concerned including Chairmen of various committees regarding timely submission of reports on Demands for Grants.

Naidu said he would also speak to the Lok Sabha Speaker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-speaker-om-birla-rejects-ministers-demand-says-there-will-be-no-adjournments-238511">Om Birla</a> in this regard.

Naidu reminded the leaders of the good work done by the Rajya Sabha during the last two sessions in terms of the productivity and quality of debates and urged them to ensure the same positive momentum during the budget session.

He said that the session offers ample opportunities to raise and discuss all issues of wider public concern during the long debates on the Motion of Thanks to the President's Address as also discussion on the budget.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/briefcase-or-bahi-khata-what-will-sitharaman-carry-for-her-second-budget-presentation-277851">What will Sitharaman carry for her second budget presentation?</a>

He also advised leaders to ensure that members belonging to respective parties come prepared to make an effective contribution to the debates in the House.

Voicing his concern over inadequate attendance during the proceedings of the House and in the meetings of various committees, Naidu urged the leaders of various parties to ensure attendance by their Members.

According to an official release, he noted that a situation of lack of quorum should not arise as it reflects poorly on the functioning of legislatures.

Leader of Opposition <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/azad-does-a-u-turn-219356">Ghulam Nabi Azad </a>said the government should be willing to accommodate concerns of the opposition and enable various issues of public concern to be discussed in the House.

Joshi said the government is always willing to discuss any issue as decided by the Chairman.

Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu suggested to all concerned to ensure submission of reports on Demands for Grants of various Ministries by the Department Related Standing Committees (DRSCs) before the budget is approved by the Parliament.

Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu suggested to all concerned to ensure submission of reports on Demands for Grants of various Ministries by the Department Related Standing Committees (DRSCs) before the budget is approved by the Parliament. He said submission of such reports later would not give time for the government to consider the recommendations made by the committees in respect of various ministries. Naidu spoke on the need for timely submission of reports at a meeting of leaders of various parties in Rajya Sabha at his residence coinciding with the start of the budget session. Also read: 'Feel good' budget may see cut in tax rate, sops for social sectors The Chairman urged Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Prahlad Joshi to talk to all concerned including Chairmen of various committees regarding timely submission of reports on Demands for Grants. Naidu said he would also speak to the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla in this regard. Naidu reminded the leaders of the good work done by the Rajya Sabha during the last two sessions in terms of the productivity and quality of debates and urged them to ensure the same positive momentum during the budget session. He said that the session offers ample opportunities to raise and discuss all issues of wider public concern during the long debates on the Motion of Thanks to the President's Address as also discussion on the budget. Also read: What will Sitharaman carry for her second budget presentation? He also advised leaders to ensure that members belonging to respective parties come prepared to make an effective contribution to the debates in the House. Voicing his concern over inadequate attendance during the proceedings of the House and in the meetings of various committees, Naidu urged the leaders of various parties to ensure attendance by their Members. According to an official release, he noted that a situation of lack of quorum should not arise as it reflects poorly on the functioning of legislatures. Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad said the government should be willing to accommodate concerns of the opposition and enable various issues of public concern to be discussed in the House. Joshi said the government is always willing to discuss any issue as decided by the Chairman.

Naidu suggests giving reports on Demands for Grants before budget approval

The Rajya Sabha (Upper House) adjourned on Friday after an uproar over Rahul Gandhi's remark against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Taking a dig at the rising incidents of rapes in India, Senior Congress leader Gandhi on Thursday said that the prime minister talked about 'Make in India' but nowadays wherever you look, it is 'Rape in India' in a rally in Jharkhand.

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Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha adjourned till 12 pm after uproar over Rahul Gandhi's 'Rape in India' remark <a href="https://t.co/HFMX24N3eo">pic.twitter.com/HFMX24N3eo</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1205368066835509249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Union minister Smriti Irani slammed Gandhi for his remarks against the PM, adding that it is an insult to the nation and an invitation to the rapists. Irani also said that Gandhi should be punished for his remarks.&nbsp;

"This is first time in history that a leader is giving a clarion call that Indian women should be raped. Is this Rahul Gandhi's message to the people of the country?" Irani said.&nbsp;

A group of leaders in the Rajya Sabha sloganeered "Rahul Gandhi maafi maango (Rahul Gandhi apologise)".&nbsp;

Rajya Sabha Chairman Venkaiah Naidu urged the members to maintain decorum and added that a member's name cannot be taken who is not a part of the house, referring to Gandhi. However, the House was later adjourned.&nbsp;

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Few MPs in Rajya Sabha raise slogans of 'Rahul Gandhi maafi maango' over Rahul Gandhi's 'rape in India' remark; Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu says, "you cannot take the name of a person who is not a member of this House. No body has the business to disturb the House". <a href="https://t.co/Ojp2BthDBO">pic.twitter.com/Ojp2BthDBO</a>
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Earlier, Gandhi had also said that the international community ridicules India and the country is known as the "rape capital" of the world.&nbsp;

The Rajya Sabha (Upper House) adjourned on Friday after an uproar over Rahul Gandhi's remark against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Taking a dig at the rising incidents of rapes in India, Senior Congress leader Gandhi on Thursday said that the prime minister talked about 'Make in India' but nowadays wherever you look, it is 'Rape in India' in a rally in Jharkhand.

The Rajya Sabha (Upper House) adjourned on Friday after an uproar over Rahul Gandhi's remark against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Taking a dig at the rising incidents of rapes in India, Senior Congress leader Gandhi on Thursday said that the prime minister talked about 'Make in India' but nowadays wherever you look, it is 'Rape in India' in a rally in Jharkhand. Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha adjourned till 12 pm after uproar over Rahul Gandhi's 'Rape in India' remark pic.twitter.com/HFMX24N3eo — ANI (@ANI) December 13, 2019 × Union minister Smriti Irani slammed Gandhi for his remarks against the PM, adding that it is an insult to the nation and an invitation to the rapists. Irani also said that Gandhi should be punished for his remarks. "This is first time in history that a leader is giving a clarion call that Indian women should be raped. Is this Rahul Gandhi's message to the people of the country?" Irani said. A group of leaders in the Rajya Sabha sloganeered "Rahul Gandhi maafi maango (Rahul Gandhi apologise)". Rajya Sabha Chairman Venkaiah Naidu urged the members to maintain decorum and added that a member's name cannot be taken who is not a part of the house, referring to Gandhi. However, the House was later adjourned. Few MPs in Rajya Sabha raise slogans of 'Rahul Gandhi maafi maango' over Rahul Gandhi's 'rape in India' remark; Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu says, "you cannot take the name of a person who is not a member of this House. No body has the business to disturb the House". pic.twitter.com/Ojp2BthDBO — ANI (@ANI) December 13, 2019 × Earlier, Gandhi had also said that the international community ridicules India and the country is known as the "rape capital" of the world.

Rajya Sabha adjourned after uproar over Rahul Gandhi's remark

Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) on Thursday will&nbsp;file a writ petition in the Supreme Court against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019, which has been passed by both houses of Parliament.

Four petitioners including Lok Sabha MPs Kunhalikutty PK, Navas Kani, ET Mohammed Basheer and Rajya Sabha MP Abdul Wahab of IUML will also speak to media after filing the plea.

Opposition parties and locals in northeastern states are staging protest against the passage of the CAB.

Indefinite curfew has been imposed in few districts of Assam in the wake of protests after the passage of the CAB in Rajya Sabha.

The CAB smoothly sailed through Parliament after the Rajya Sabha passed it on Wednesday. As many as 125 members of the Upper House voted in favour of the Bill while 105 MPs voted against the Bill, which was passed by Lok Sabha earlier this week.

The Bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zoroastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) on Thursday will file a writ petition in the Supreme Court against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019, which has been passed by both houses of Parliament.

Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) on Thursday will file a writ petition in the Supreme Court against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019, which has been passed by both houses of Parliament. Four petitioners including Lok Sabha MPs Kunhalikutty PK, Navas Kani, ET Mohammed Basheer and Rajya Sabha MP Abdul Wahab of IUML will also speak to media after filing the plea. Opposition parties and locals in northeastern states are staging protest against the passage of the CAB. Indefinite curfew has been imposed in few districts of Assam in the wake of protests after the passage of the CAB in Rajya Sabha. The CAB smoothly sailed through Parliament after the Rajya Sabha passed it on Wednesday. As many as 125 members of the Upper House voted in favour of the Bill while 105 MPs voted against the Bill, which was passed by Lok Sabha earlier this week. The Bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zoroastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

IUML to file plea in Supreme Court against Citizenship Amendment Bill

India's upper house the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday passed the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cab-to-function-like-a-one-time-drive-says-top-rss-functionary-267715"> Citizenship (Amendment) Bill</a> with 125 members favouring it and 105 voting against it.

In a dramatic turn of events, NDA's former ally Shiv Sena boycotted the voting process.

"My party and I felt that when answers are not given properly then it is not right to either support or oppose the bill," Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut said.

"We didn't say that the refugees shouldn't be granted citizenship, they should be given. But we said that if it's a conspiracy for vote bank politics &amp; allegations are being levelled against you then they should not be granted voting rights for 25 years," he added.

Earlier, the Rajya Sabha voted against sending the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill to a select committee of parliament for review.

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A landmark day for India and our nation’s ethos of compassion and brotherhood! 
 
Glad that the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CAB2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CAB2019</a> has been passed in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RajyaSabha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RajyaSabha</a>. Gratitude to all the MPs who voted in favour of the Bill. 
 
This Bill will alleviate the suffering of many who faced persecution for years.
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Ninty-nine members voted for sending the bill to the select committee, while 124 opted against it during the voting after the motion was moved by CPM MP, KK Ragesh.

Replying on the bill, Home minister Amit Shah said the bill is not going to hurt anyone's sentiments or make people of any community upset.

"The people who are worried that minorities of this country will be subjected to injustice, it will not happen," India's home minister asserted.

"Abrogation of Article 370, Triple Talaq Bill is not anti-Muslim. Do women not have rights? Kashmir is peaceful even after the abrogation of 370. Likewise, I don't believe the bill is anti-Muslim," he added.

Taking a dig at the Shiv Sena, Amit Shah said: "Shiv Sena supported the Bill yesterday. They should tell the people of Maharashtra as to what happened within the span of a night that they changed their stand today."

"It was asked that why were Rohingyas not included in the bill? Rohingyas don't come to India directly, they go to Bangladesh and then infiltrate into India from there," Amit Shah informed the House.

"This bill does not hurt the Article 14 of the Constitution," he said, adding, "this bill will not harm the minority communities including Muslims."

"There is no appreciation of the fact people from 6 religions have been included. But, the focus is only on why Muslims are not included."

India's upper house the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday passed the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill with 125 members favouring it and 105 voting against it. In a dramatic turn of events, NDA's former ally Shiv Sena boycotted the voting process.

India's upper house the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday passed the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill with 125 members favouring it and 105 voting against it. In a dramatic turn of events, NDA's former ally Shiv Sena boycotted the voting process. "My party and I felt that when answers are not given properly then it is not right to either support or oppose the bill," Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut said. "We didn't say that the refugees shouldn't be granted citizenship, they should be given. But we said that if it's a conspiracy for vote bank politics & allegations are being levelled against you then they should not be granted voting rights for 25 years," he added. Earlier, the Rajya Sabha voted against sending the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill to a select committee of parliament for review. A landmark day for India and our nation’s ethos of compassion and brotherhood! Glad that the #CAB2019 has been passed in the #RajyaSabha. Gratitude to all the MPs who voted in favour of the Bill. This Bill will alleviate the suffering of many who faced persecution for years. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 11, 2019 × Ninty-nine members voted for sending the bill to the select committee, while 124 opted against it during the voting after the motion was moved by CPM MP, KK Ragesh. Replying on the bill, Home minister Amit Shah said the bill is not going to hurt anyone's sentiments or make people of any community upset. "The people who are worried that minorities of this country will be subjected to injustice, it will not happen," India's home minister asserted. "Abrogation of Article 370, Triple Talaq Bill is not anti-Muslim. Do women not have rights? Kashmir is peaceful even after the abrogation of 370. Likewise, I don't believe the bill is anti-Muslim," he added. Taking a dig at the Shiv Sena, Amit Shah said: "Shiv Sena supported the Bill yesterday. They should tell the people of Maharashtra as to what happened within the span of a night that they changed their stand today." "It was asked that why were Rohingyas not included in the bill? Rohingyas don't come to India directly, they go to Bangladesh and then infiltrate into India from there," Amit Shah informed the House. "This bill does not hurt the Article 14 of the Constitution," he said, adding, "this bill will not harm the minority communities including Muslims." "There is no appreciation of the fact people from 6 religions have been included. But, the focus is only on why Muslims are not included."

Rajya Sabha passes Citizenship (Amendment) Bill

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

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

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

Lok Sabha refers Personal Data Protection Bill to Joint Parliamentary Committee

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/citizenship-amendment-bill-secularism-unfinished-business-in-india-266260">Citizenship (Amendment) Bill</a>, 2019, which was passed by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-citizenship-amendment-bill-tabled-in-lok-sabha-267132">Lok Sabha</a> yesterday, will be tabled in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, sources said.

The Bill, which seeks to give citizenship to refugees from the Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zorastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh was passed in Lok Sabha on Monday.

Lok Sabha passed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/muslims-from-afghanistan-pakistan-bangladesh-wont-get-benefits-of-citizenship-amendment-bill-amit-shah-267201">Citizenship Bill </a>with a majority of 311 votes against 80 votes in the Lower House where 391 members were present and voted.

The cut-off date for the citizenship bill is December 31, 2014.

In Rajya Sabha, the Modi government requires the support of at least 123 MPs in the 245-member house.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019, which was passed by Lok Sabha yesterday, will be tabled in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, sources said. The Bill, which seeks to give citizenship to refugees from the Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zorastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh was passed in Lok Sabha on Monday.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019, which was passed by Lok Sabha yesterday, will be tabled in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, sources said. The Bill, which seeks to give citizenship to refugees from the Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zorastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh was passed in Lok Sabha on Monday. Lok Sabha passed the Citizenship Bill with a majority of 311 votes against 80 votes in the Lower House where 391 members were present and voted. The cut-off date for the citizenship bill is December 31, 2014. In Rajya Sabha, the Modi government requires the support of at least 123 MPs in the 245-member house.

Citizenship (Amendment) Bill to be tabled in Rajya Sabha tomorrow

A day after the contentious Citizenship <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/citizenship-amendment-bill-secularism-unfinished-business-in-india-266260">Amendment Bill</a> was passed in the Lok Sabha, Maharashtra Chief Minister<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uddhav-thackeray-has-given-consent-to-become-maharashtra-chief-minister-sanjay-raut-263954"> Uddhav Thackeray</a> on Tuesday said that the Shiv Sena will not support the proposed legislation unless the party's queries in the Rajya Sabha were addressed.

"We will not give support to the Bill unless things are clear. If any citizen is afraid of this Bill than one must clear their doubts. They are our citizens so one must answer their questions too," Thackeray, who is also the Shiv Sena chief, told reporters here.

Attacking its former ally BJP over their stance on the Bill, the Chief Minister said, "Terming anyone who disagrees as a traitor is their illusion. We have suggested changes in the Citizenship Amendment Bill we want in the Rajya Sabha. It is an illusion that only <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/bjp-proves-sceptics-wrong-with-stunning-performance-in-hindi-heartland-221136">BJP</a> cares for the country."

Interestingly, Thackeray's statement came hours after Shiv Sena MP Arvind Sawant said that the support for the Bill will continue in the Rajya Sabha as well because of 'national interest'.

"We will support the Bill. Do we have different roles? <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/shiv-senas-arvind-sawant-to-be-part-of-modis-cabinet-222699">Shiv Sena </a>always takes the stand which is good for the national interest. This is not anyone's monopoly," he told ANI after the party backed the Bill in the Lok Sabha yesterday.

Meanwhile, according to sources, the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 will be tabled in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday.

The Bill, which seeks to give citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zorastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh was passed in Lok Sabha on Monday.

After heated discussions spanning seven hours, the Bill was passed with a majority of 311 votes against 80 in the Lower House where 391 members were present and voted.

In Rajya Sabha, the Centre requires the support of at least 123 MPs in the 245-member Upper House.

A day after the contentious Citizenship Amendment Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha, Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday said that the Shiv Sena will not support the proposed legislation unless the party's queries in the Rajya Sabha were addressed.

A day after the contentious Citizenship Amendment Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha, Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday said that the Shiv Sena will not support the proposed legislation unless the party's queries in the Rajya Sabha were addressed. "We will not give support to the Bill unless things are clear. If any citizen is afraid of this Bill than one must clear their doubts. They are our citizens so one must answer their questions too," Thackeray, who is also the Shiv Sena chief, told reporters here. Attacking its former ally BJP over their stance on the Bill, the Chief Minister said, "Terming anyone who disagrees as a traitor is their illusion. We have suggested changes in the Citizenship Amendment Bill we want in the Rajya Sabha. It is an illusion that only BJP cares for the country." Interestingly, Thackeray's statement came hours after Shiv Sena MP Arvind Sawant said that the support for the Bill will continue in the Rajya Sabha as well because of 'national interest'. "We will support the Bill. Do we have different roles? Shiv Sena always takes the stand which is good for the national interest. This is not anyone's monopoly," he told ANI after the party backed the Bill in the Lok Sabha yesterday. Meanwhile, according to sources, the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 will be tabled in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. The Bill, which seeks to give citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zorastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh was passed in Lok Sabha on Monday. After heated discussions spanning seven hours, the Bill was passed with a majority of 311 votes against 80 in the Lower House where 391 members were present and voted. In Rajya Sabha, the Centre requires the support of at least 123 MPs in the 245-member Upper House.

Won't support Citizenship Amendment Bill till we get clarity: Uddhav Thackeray

The All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bandh-against-citizenship-bill-hits-normal-life-in-assam-other-ne-states-189002">AAPSU</a>) on Tuesday announced an 11-hour statewide bandh in support of the North East Students' Organisation's (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bandh-in-northeast-states-against-police-firing-on-people-protesting-against-citizenship-bill-in-tripura-189902">NESO</a>) decision to shut down the entire Northeast region, except Nagaland, to protest against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/citizenship-amendment-bill-secularism-unfinished-business-in-india-266260">Citizenship (Amendment) Bill</a> (CAB), 2019.

Addressing media, AAPSU vice-president Meje Taku said, "The AAPSU stands with the NESO and the people of the Northeast region in the fight against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill. The AAPSU is with the NESO's decision to shut down the Northeast against the Centre for passing the Bill in Lok Sabha."

"The shutdown is for the cause of the Northeast's indigenous people and the greater interest of the region. We appeal to every individual to support the NESO and the AAPSU movement. The BJP government at the Centre passed the Bill despite strong opposition from the northeastern states," he added.

Asserting that AAPSU will stand with NESO, Taku said, "Although Union Home Minister Amit Shah has assured that the CAB would not be applicable to Inner Line Permit (ILP) regime states like Arunachal, Mizoram, and Nagaland, AAPSU's stance on the matter is very clear and it will stand with NESO and its decision."

Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Nagaland, Manipur, and Meghalaya are exempted from the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, however, massive protests are going on in these states against the central government over the Bill.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to give citizenship to refugees from the Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zorastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, was passed in Lok Sabha on Monday.

&nbsp;However, according to sources, the Bill will be tabled in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday.

The All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU) on Tuesday announced an 11-hour statewide bandh in support of the North East Students' Organisation's (NESO) decision to shut down the entire Northeast region, except Nagaland, to protest against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill (CAB), 2019.

The All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU) on Tuesday announced an 11-hour statewide bandh in support of the North East Students' Organisation's (NESO) decision to shut down the entire Northeast region, except Nagaland, to protest against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill (CAB), 2019. Addressing media, AAPSU vice-president Meje Taku said, "The AAPSU stands with the NESO and the people of the Northeast region in the fight against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill. The AAPSU is with the NESO's decision to shut down the Northeast against the Centre for passing the Bill in Lok Sabha." "The shutdown is for the cause of the Northeast's indigenous people and the greater interest of the region. We appeal to every individual to support the NESO and the AAPSU movement. The BJP government at the Centre passed the Bill despite strong opposition from the northeastern states," he added. Asserting that AAPSU will stand with NESO, Taku said, "Although Union Home Minister Amit Shah has assured that the CAB would not be applicable to Inner Line Permit (ILP) regime states like Arunachal, Mizoram, and Nagaland, AAPSU's stance on the matter is very clear and it will stand with NESO and its decision." Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Nagaland, Manipur, and Meghalaya are exempted from the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, however, massive protests are going on in these states against the central government over the Bill. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to give citizenship to refugees from the Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zorastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, was passed in Lok Sabha on Monday. However, according to sources, the Bill will be tabled in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday.

Arunachal: AAPSU holds protests against Citizenship (Amendment) Bill

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/if-we-were-anti-national-would-rajnath-singh-welcome-me-asks-aiudf-chief-33720">Badruddin Ajmal</a>, the chief of Assam-based All India United Democratic Front (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-mlas-stage-walkout-from-assembly-over-citizenship-amendment-bill-265023">AIUDF</a>), on Tuesday, expressed displeasure with the passage of Citizenship (Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha and called it 'unconstitutional.'

"I am against this bill because it is against the constitution. The Constitution does not give the right to bring people to India on the basis of religion," Ajmal told ANI.

He also claimed that the BJP-led the government wants to "bring people to the country on the basis of religion" and added "this is against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assams-aiudf-protests-against-citizenship-amendment-bill-in-delhi-267164">Assam Accord</a>. This is just a political stunt to by the Centre to bag votes in the next elections."

"What about those who have come from Pakistan. They may later act as an agent for Pakistan. They will give them jobs also. This is not right," Ajmal added.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019, which was passed by Lok Sabha yesterday, will be tabled in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, sources said.

The Bill, which seeks to give citizenship to refugees from the Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zorastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh was passed in Lok Sabha on Monday.

The House passed the Bill with a majority of 311 votes against 80 votes where 391 members were present and voted.

In Rajya Sabha, the Modi government requires the support of at least 123 MPs in the 245-member house. 
&nbsp;

Badruddin Ajmal, the chief of Assam-based All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), on Tuesday, expressed displeasure with the passage of Citizenship (Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha and called it 'unconstitutional.

Badruddin Ajmal, the chief of Assam-based All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), on Tuesday, expressed displeasure with the passage of Citizenship (Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha and called it 'unconstitutional.' "I am against this bill because it is against the constitution. The Constitution does not give the right to bring people to India on the basis of religion," Ajmal told ANI. He also claimed that the BJP-led the government wants to "bring people to the country on the basis of religion" and added "this is against the Assam Accord. This is just a political stunt to by the Centre to bag votes in the next elections." "What about those who have come from Pakistan. They may later act as an agent for Pakistan. They will give them jobs also. This is not right," Ajmal added. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019, which was passed by Lok Sabha yesterday, will be tabled in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, sources said. The Bill, which seeks to give citizenship to refugees from the Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zorastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh was passed in Lok Sabha on Monday. The House passed the Bill with a majority of 311 votes against 80 votes where 391 members were present and voted. In Rajya Sabha, the Modi government requires the support of at least 123 MPs in the 245-member house.

AIUDF calls Citizenship Bill 'unconstitutional'

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will on Tuesday move The Special Protection Group (Amendment) Bill, 2019 in Rajya Sabha, reported news agency ANI The Bill was passed in Lok Sabha on November 27 with a voice vote, while Congress MPs had walked out of the House in protest.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will on Tuesday move The Special Protection Group (Amendment) Bill, 2019 in Rajya Sabha, reported news agency ANI The Bill was passed in Lok Sabha on November 27 with a voice vote, while Congress MPs had walked out of the House in protest. "The Bill says that family members of a former Prime Minister who reside with him at his allotted accommodation will get security cover of the SPG only for five years, from the date he/she ceases to hold the office of Prime Minister," ANI added quoting a Home Ministry statement. Initiating the debate on the bill in Lok Sabha, Shah said that the SPG shall provide proximate security to the Prime Minister and his immediate family members residing with him at his official residence. Rejecting Congress party's allegations of "political vendetta" in the change in the security of Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Shah said that changes had been made in the protection Act earlier keeping "one family in mind". He further said that security has been changed of members of Gandhi family after a yearly professional assessment and the change in security has also been done under the ambit of the Act. He added security has been changed from SPG based on an assessment of threat perception and the review was done twice and it was found that ASL is sufficient. (With inputs from ANI)

Amit Shah to move The Special Protection Group (Amendment) Bill, 2019 in Rajya Sabha today

Rajya Sabha lawmaker and &nbsp;Samajwadi Party leader Jaya Bachchan on Monday said that the accused in rape and murder of veterinary doctor should be brought in public and lynched, reported news agency ANI.&nbsp;

"People now want the government to give a proper and definite answer. These types of people [the accused in rape case] need to be brought in public and lynched," Bachchan was quoted as saying in the Upper House.

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Rajya Sabha MP Jaya Bachchan: These type of people (the accused in rape ) need to be brought out in public and lynched <a href="https://t.co/2QcQh1FugY">https://t.co/2QcQh1FugY</a>
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A veterinarian was brutally gang-raped and killed by four persons before they burned her body in Telangana`s Shamshabad last week. The accused have been arrested by the Cyberabad police.&nbsp;

Rajya Sabha lawmaker and Samajwadi Party leader Jaya Bachchan on Monday said that the accused in rape and murder of veterinary doctor should be brought in public and lynched, reported news agency ANI.

Rajya Sabha lawmaker and Samajwadi Party leader Jaya Bachchan on Monday said that the accused in rape and murder of veterinary doctor should be brought in public and lynched, reported news agency ANI. "People now want the government to give a proper and definite answer. These types of people [the accused in rape case] need to be brought in public and lynched," Bachchan was quoted as saying in the Upper House. Rajya Sabha MP Jaya Bachchan: These type of people (the accused in rape ) need to be brought out in public and lynched https://t.co/2QcQh1FugY — ANI (@ANI) December 2, 2019 × A veterinarian was brutally gang-raped and killed by four persons before they burned her body in Telangana`s Shamshabad last week. The accused have been arrested by the Cyberabad police.

Telangana rape accused need to be lynched: Jaya Bachchan

The Ministry of Home Affairs apprised Rajya Sabha on Wednesday that attempts are being made by Pakistan-based terror outfits to reactivate its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lack-of-response-to-2611-different-from-uri-and-balakot-operations-s-jaishankar-262170">camp at Balakot</a> and restart their religious and Jihadi indoctrination courses against India.

"Inputs indicate that attempts are being made by Pakistan-based terror outfits to reactivate its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/to-boost-economy-government-must-spend-on-rural-infra-farmers-and-ignite-demand-former-finance-minister-yashwant-sinha-256788">camp at Balakot</a> and restart their religious and Jihadi indoctrination courses against India," replied MoS Home GK Reddy in Upper House.

The reply came in response to the unstarred question by Congress MP Ahmed Patel who has asked "whether the government is aware that terror camps have again reactivated in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/balakot-airstrike-was-our-leaderships-resolve-to-punish-perpetrators-of-terrorism-iaf-chief-on-air-force-day-254373">Balakot in Pakistan</a>" and about the precautionary and other measures government proposes to take in this matter. An Unstarred Question is one to which written answer is desired by the member and is deemed to be laid on the Table of the House by Minister.

He informed that the centre is "committed to taking all necessary steps to protect the borders of the country and maintain its integrity and sovereignty".

The Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out aerial strikes on a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/more-than-45-terrorists-being-trained-at-jaish-e-mohammeds-balakot-facility-255870">Jaish-e-Mohammad</a> (JeM) terrorist camp in Balakot, Pakistan, in retaliation to Pulwama terror attack earlier this year.&nbsp;

The Ministry of Home Affairs apprised Rajya Sabha on Wednesday that attempts are being made by Pakistan-based terror outfits to reactivate its camp at Balakot and restart their religious and Jihadi indoctrination courses against India.

The Ministry of Home Affairs apprised Rajya Sabha on Wednesday that attempts are being made by Pakistan-based terror outfits to reactivate its camp at Balakot and restart their religious and Jihadi indoctrination courses against India. "Inputs indicate that attempts are being made by Pakistan-based terror outfits to reactivate its camp at Balakot and restart their religious and Jihadi indoctrination courses against India," replied MoS Home GK Reddy in Upper House. The reply came in response to the unstarred question by Congress MP Ahmed Patel who has asked "whether the government is aware that terror camps have again reactivated in Balakot in Pakistan" and about the precautionary and other measures government proposes to take in this matter. An Unstarred Question is one to which written answer is desired by the member and is deemed to be laid on the Table of the House by Minister. He informed that the centre is "committed to taking all necessary steps to protect the borders of the country and maintain its integrity and sovereignty". The Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out aerial strikes on a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist camp in Balakot, Pakistan, in retaliation to Pulwama terror attack earlier this year.

Balakot terror camps in Pakistan being reactivated: MHA informs Rajya Sabha

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fuel-supply-to-air-india-stopped-at-six-domestic-airports-report-244881">Air India</a> is not privatised then from where the money would come for it to function?" said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/appalled-by-uk-mps-statement-on-article-370-union-minister-hardeep-puri-245232">Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri</a> on Wednesday.

"If it (Air India) is not privatised then from where the money would come to for it to function? Earlier we used to go to the finance ministry to make up the operating loss. We are not getting any money from the finance ministry, we have to go to banks," Puri told ANI when asked about Air India disinvestment.

"The condition of Air India today is that it is a first-class asset. If we sell it now then bidders would come. If we take ideological positions that we don't want to sell it then it would be difficult to run it in the future," he said.

When asked people employed by Air India, Puri said: "We are committed to them to get a fair deal. 11,000 and 4,000 on contract include trained engineers. Those who would acquire the airline would also require these trained people."

Earlier in August this year, the Civil Aviation Minister had said that the government is determined to privatise Air India and people are interested in buying it.

The Parliament on August 3 passed the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/monsoon-session-parliament-set-for-yet-another-centre-vs-opposition-battle-152493"> Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India</a> (Amendment) Bill, 2019, that increases the threshold of annual passenger traffic for major airports to over 35 lakh with Civil Aviation stating that the government was committed to privatisation of Air India as its debt has become totally unsustainable.

The Bill, which seeks to amend the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India Act, 2008, had earlier been passed by Rajya Sabha.

Air India is not privatised then from where the money would come for it to function?" said Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Wednesday. "If it (Air India) is not privatised then from where the money would come to for it to function?

Air India is not privatised then from where the money would come for it to function?" said Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Wednesday. "If it (Air India) is not privatised then from where the money would come to for it to function? Earlier we used to go to the finance ministry to make up the operating loss. We are not getting any money from the finance ministry, we have to go to banks," Puri told ANI when asked about Air India disinvestment. "The condition of Air India today is that it is a first-class asset. If we sell it now then bidders would come. If we take ideological positions that we don't want to sell it then it would be difficult to run it in the future," he said. When asked people employed by Air India, Puri said: "We are committed to them to get a fair deal. 11,000 and 4,000 on contract include trained engineers. Those who would acquire the airline would also require these trained people." Earlier in August this year, the Civil Aviation Minister had said that the government is determined to privatise Air India and people are interested in buying it. The Parliament on August 3 passed the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (Amendment) Bill, 2019, that increases the threshold of annual passenger traffic for major airports to over 35 lakh with Civil Aviation stating that the government was committed to privatisation of Air India as its debt has become totally unsustainable. The Bill, which seeks to amend the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India Act, 2008, had earlier been passed by Rajya Sabha.

Will be difficult for Air India to function if it not privatised: Aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri

Union Home Minister and BJP President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-reviews-functioning-of-crpf-calls-for-action-against-maoists-262479">Amit Shah</a> is scheduled to speak in the Rajya Sabha later today, sources said on Wednesday. 
 
Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/this-house-has-seen-many-historic-moments-says-modi-in-rajya-sabha-address-262903">Narendra Modi</a> had on Monday addressed the Upper House of Parliament.

"The Rajya Sabha is a symbol of India's development journey. Two things about the Rajya Sabha stand out, It's permanent nature. It is also a representative of India's diversity. This House gives importance to India's federal structure," he had stated.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/winter-session-of-parliament-government-set-to-push-citizenship-amendment-bill-263005">winter session of the Parliament</a>, which started from Monday earlier this week, will go on till December 13. It marks the 250th session of the Rajya Sabha.

Union Home Minister and BJP President Amit Shah is scheduled to speak in the Rajya Sabha later today, sources said on Wednesday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Monday addressed the Upper House of Parliament.

Union Home Minister and BJP President Amit Shah is scheduled to speak in the Rajya Sabha later today, sources said on Wednesday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Monday addressed the Upper House of Parliament. "The Rajya Sabha is a symbol of India's development journey. Two things about the Rajya Sabha stand out, It's permanent nature. It is also a representative of India's diversity. This House gives importance to India's federal structure," he had stated. The winter session of the Parliament, which started from Monday earlier this week, will go on till December 13. It marks the 250th session of the Rajya Sabha.

Amit Shah to speak in Rajya Sabha today

Union Home Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../jammu-kashmir-situation-fully-normal-none- died-in-police-firing-since-august-5-amit-shah-263354">Amit Shah</a> said in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday that all citizens of India irrespective of religion will figure in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../bjp-can-never-come-to-power-in-west-bengal- nor-can-it-implement-nrc-here-tmcs-madan-mitra-256947">National Register of Citizens</a> (NRC) list and that NRC is different from the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../aap-protests-in-parliament-demands-inclusion- of-bill-on-unauthorised-colonies-in-winter-session-263360"> </a>Citizenship Amendment Bill.

"NRC has no such provision which says that certain religions will be excluded from it. All citizens of India irrespective of religion will figure in the NRC list. The NRC is different from Citizenship Amendment Bill," said Shah addressing the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../amit-shah-to-speak-in-rajya-sabha-today- 263306">Rajya Sabha</a> here.

"The process of NRC will be carried out across the country. No one, irrespective of religion should be worried, it is just a process to get everyone under the NRC," he added.

Speaking in the Upper House of Parliament Shah said: "People whose name have not figured in the draft list have the right to go to the Tribunal. Tribunals will be constituted across Assam. For those who can't afford legal counsel for the Tribunal, the Assam government will bear the cost to hire a lawyer."

He said that<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../aap-protests-in-parliament-demands-inclusion- of-bill-on-unauthorised-colonies-in-winter-session-263360"> Citizenship Amendment Bill</a> is needed so that Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Jain, Christian, Parsi refugees who are being discriminated on basis of religion in Pakistan, Bangladesh or Afghanistan, get Indian citizenship.

"Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Jain, Christian, Parsi refugees should get citizenship, that is why Citizenship Amendment Bill is needed so that these refugees who are being discriminated on basis of religion in Pakistan, Bangladesh or Afghanistan, get Indian citizenship," said Shah.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016, which was passed in the Lok Sabha on January 8, aims at granting citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan who came to India before December 31, 2014.

In the final NRC list published on August 31, a total of 3,11,21,004 persons were found eligible for inclusion in the list leaving out 19,06,657 persons, including those who did not submit their claims in Assam..

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday that all citizens of India irrespective of religion will figure in the National Register of Citizens (NRC) list and that NRC is different from the Citizenship Amendment Bill.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday that all citizens of India irrespective of religion will figure in the National Register of Citizens (NRC) list and that NRC is different from the Citizenship Amendment Bill. "NRC has no such provision which says that certain religions will be excluded from it. All citizens of India irrespective of religion will figure in the NRC list. The NRC is different from Citizenship Amendment Bill," said Shah addressing the Rajya Sabha here. "The process of NRC will be carried out across the country. No one, irrespective of religion should be worried, it is just a process to get everyone under the NRC," he added. Speaking in the Upper House of Parliament Shah said: "People whose name have not figured in the draft list have the right to go to the Tribunal. Tribunals will be constituted across Assam. For those who can't afford legal counsel for the Tribunal, the Assam government will bear the cost to hire a lawyer." He said that Citizenship Amendment Bill is needed so that Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Jain, Christian, Parsi refugees who are being discriminated on basis of religion in Pakistan, Bangladesh or Afghanistan, get Indian citizenship. "Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Jain, Christian, Parsi refugees should get citizenship, that is why Citizenship Amendment Bill is needed so that these refugees who are being discriminated on basis of religion in Pakistan, Bangladesh or Afghanistan, get Indian citizenship," said Shah. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016, which was passed in the Lok Sabha on January 8, aims at granting citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan who came to India before December 31, 2014. In the final NRC list published on August 31, a total of 3,11,21,004 persons were found eligible for inclusion in the list leaving out 19,06,657 persons, including those who did not submit their claims in Assam..

NRC will cover everybody across India, irrespective of religion: Amit Shah

Union Home Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-to-speak-in-rajya-sabha-today-263306">Amit Shah</a> on Wednesday said in Rajya Sabha that the situation is "fully normal" in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-abrogation-pakistan-halts-repatriation-of-indian-nationals-in-its-custody-263024">Jammu and Kashmir </a>and not a single person had died in police firing after August 5, when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fulfilled-sardar-patels-dream-by-making-jammu-and-kashmir-inseparable-part-of-india-amit-shah-on-abrogation-of-article-370-245290">Article 370</a> was abrogated and the two Union territories (Jammu &amp; Kashmir and Ladakh) were carved out of erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Replying to Congress MP Majeed Memon, Shah said: "In Jammu and Kashmir the situation has become fully normal. There are various kinds of rumours in India and all over the world but I want to tell that not a single person has died in police firing after August 5.

"The incidents of stone-pelting have witnessed a dip as compared to that of last year," he said.

All Urdu and English newspapers and TV channels are functioning banking services are fully functional as well.&nbsp; All Government offices and all Courts are open. Block development council elections were held, 98.3 per cent polling was recorded," he added.

"99.7 per cent of class 10 and class 12th students have appeared in their exams," said Shah.

The Central government had in August announced a decision to scrap Article 370, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcate the state in two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. The two UTs came into existence on October 31.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said in Rajya Sabha that the situation is "fully normal" in Jammu and Kashmir and not a single person had died in police firing after August 5, when Article 370 was abrogated and the two Union territories (Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh) were carved out of erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said in Rajya Sabha that the situation is "fully normal" in Jammu and Kashmir and not a single person had died in police firing after August 5, when Article 370 was abrogated and the two Union territories (Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh) were carved out of erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Replying to Congress MP Majeed Memon, Shah said: "In Jammu and Kashmir the situation has become fully normal. There are various kinds of rumours in India and all over the world but I want to tell that not a single person has died in police firing after August 5. "The incidents of stone-pelting have witnessed a dip as compared to that of last year," he said. All Urdu and English newspapers and TV channels are functioning banking services are fully functional as well. All Government offices and all Courts are open. Block development council elections were held, 98.3 per cent polling was recorded," he added. "99.7 per cent of class 10 and class 12th students have appeared in their exams," said Shah. The Central government had in August announced a decision to scrap Article 370, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcate the state in two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. The two UTs came into existence on October 31.

Jammu & Kashmir situation fully normal, no deaths in police firing since August 5: Amit Shah

Rajya Sabha was on Tuesday adjourned till 2pm after uproar over Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) hostel fee hike. Congress and other opposition parties disrupted the proceedings of the House forcing the Chairman Venkaiah Naidu to adjourn the proceedings.

Rajya Sabha was on Tuesday adjourned till 2pm after uproar over Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) hostel fee hike. Congress and other opposition parties disrupted the proceedings of the House forcing the Chairman Venkaiah Naidu to adjourn the proceedings. The Upper House was adjourned after chairman Naidu refused to allow suspension of business under rule 267 given by the Communist Party of India (CPI) leader Binoy Viswan. The JNU situation deteriorated last week after a clash broke out between the students and police during a protest over hike in fees. The university had hiked the rate of a student single room rent from Rs 10 to Rs 300 per month, for student double room from Rs 20 to Rs 600 per month and increased one-time refundable mess security deposit from Rs 5,500 to Rs 12,000. The fee was, however, partially rolled back following protest. Now, the room rent for single-seater rooms will be kept to Rs 600 per month, while it will be Rs 300 for those students who come from the below poverty line (BPL) category. The Rajya Sabha Chairman also said the House will look into the issue of the uniforms of the Rajya Sabha Marshals. "Secretariat of the Rajya Sabha after considering various suggestions came out with a new dress code for the marshals. But we've received some observations by some political as well as well-meaning people. I've decided to ask Secretariat to revisit the same," Naidu said. (With ANI inputs)

Rajya Sabha adjourned till 2pm after uproar over JNU fee hike issue

On the first day of its 250th session, the Rajya Sabha was around noon adjourned till 2 pm on Monday.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/winter-session-begins-today-will-have-20-sittings-between-18th-nov-to-13th-dec-262847">winter session of the Parliament</a> commenced today and both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha paid homage to its sitting and former lawmakers including Sushma Swaraj, Arun Jaitley, and Ram Jethmalani.

The winter session will go on till December 13 and will provide a total of 20 sittings spread over a period of 26 days, including four Private Members' days.

Many key bills, including the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/citizenship-bill-in-focus-as-winter-session-of-parliament-gets-underway-from-today-262790">Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019</a>, are scheduled to be tabled in this session of the Parliament. Other important bills that are expected to be taken up during the course of the Houses include the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019, Anti Maritime Piracy Bill 2019 and Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019.

Ahead of the winter session, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the session is an important one as it is the last in this year and all lawmakers should contribute to enriching the discussions.

Talking about the need to have a "frank discussion" in the Parliament, the Prime Minister said, "It is important that there should be quality debates, there should be dialogue and discussions and everyone should contribute to enriching discussions in the Parliament."

This is the second session of the Parliament since Modi returned to office with a bigger majority for a second successive term.

On the first day of its 250th session, the Rajya Sabha was around noon adjourned till 2 pm on Monday. The winter session of the Parliament commenced today and both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha paid homage to its sitting and former lawmakers including Sushma Swaraj, Arun Jaitley, and Ram Jethmalani.

On the first day of its 250th session, the Rajya Sabha was around noon adjourned till 2 pm on Monday. The winter session of the Parliament commenced today and both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha paid homage to its sitting and former lawmakers including Sushma Swaraj, Arun Jaitley, and Ram Jethmalani. The winter session will go on till December 13 and will provide a total of 20 sittings spread over a period of 26 days, including four Private Members' days. Many key bills, including the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019, are scheduled to be tabled in this session of the Parliament. Other important bills that are expected to be taken up during the course of the Houses include the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019, Anti Maritime Piracy Bill 2019 and Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019. Ahead of the winter session, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the session is an important one as it is the last in this year and all lawmakers should contribute to enriching the discussions. Talking about the need to have a "frank discussion" in the Parliament, the Prime Minister said, "It is important that there should be quality debates, there should be dialogue and discussions and everyone should contribute to enriching discussions in the Parliament." This is the second session of the Parliament since Modi returned to office with a bigger majority for a second successive term.

Rajya Sabha adjourned till 2 pm on first day of 250th session

The Rajya Sabha on Monday paid rich tributes to Jagannath Mishra, Arun Jaitley, Sukhdev Singh Libra, Ram&nbsp;Jethmalani and Gurudas Dasgupta, who served as lawmakers in the Upper House of the Parliament.

After Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu gave obituary references to its sitting and former members, MPs present in the House paid homage to the distinguished parliamentarians.

On August 19, Mishra, a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-bihar-chief-minister-jagannath-mishra-passes-away-at-82-244003">former Bihar chief minister </a>had passed away in New Delhi after a prolonged illness. The 82-year-old started his career as a professor and went on to become chief minister of Bihar thrice from the Congress. Mishra also served as a union minister.

He served as a Rajya Sabha MP between 1988 to 1990 and from 1994 to 2000.

Jaitley, who served as finance minister in the first tenure of the Narendra Modi-led government, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-finance-minister-arun-jaitleys-mortal-remains-moved-to-bjp-headquarters-several-leaders-arrive-to-pay-respects-245427">breathed his last on August 24 </a>at AIIMS in the national capital after suffering from health issues. He was 66 and served as the Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha from 2014 to 2019.

On September 6, Congress leader Libra passed away due to health issues. He was 86 and served in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Libra served as a parliamentarian at the Upper House between 1998 to 2004.

On September 8, noted lawyer Jethmalani had passed away at the age of 95. He served as the law minister and the urban development minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee cabinet. He had also served as the Chairman of the Bar Council of India.

Jethmalani, who was known for taking up high-profile cases, was a Rajya Sabha MP from 2016 to 2019.

Dasgupta, a CPI leader, breathed his last in Kolkata on October 31. He was aged 83 and was suffering from heart and kidney-related ailments.

Dasgupta was the CPI's former deputy general secretary and a well-known trade unionist. He was elected as a member of the Rajya Sabha in 1985, 1988 and 1994.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/winter-session-of-parliament-speaker-calls-all-party-meeting-on-saturday-262452">winter session of Parliament</a> commenced from today and will go on till December 13. The session will provide a total of 20 sittings spread over a period of 26 days, including four Private Members' days.

Many key bills, including the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019, are scheduled to be tabled in this session of the Parliament. Other important bills that are expected to be taken up during the course of the Houses include the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019, Anti Maritime Piracy Bill 2019 and Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019.

The Rajya Sabha on Monday paid rich tributes to Jagannath Mishra, Arun Jaitley, Sukhdev Singh Libra, Ram Jethmalani and Gurudas Dasgupta, who served as lawmakers in the Upper House of the Parliament.

The Rajya Sabha on Monday paid rich tributes to Jagannath Mishra, Arun Jaitley, Sukhdev Singh Libra, Ram Jethmalani and Gurudas Dasgupta, who served as lawmakers in the Upper House of the Parliament. After Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu gave obituary references to its sitting and former members, MPs present in the House paid homage to the distinguished parliamentarians. On August 19, Mishra, a former Bihar chief minister had passed away in New Delhi after a prolonged illness. The 82-year-old started his career as a professor and went on to become chief minister of Bihar thrice from the Congress. Mishra also served as a union minister. He served as a Rajya Sabha MP between 1988 to 1990 and from 1994 to 2000. Jaitley, who served as finance minister in the first tenure of the Narendra Modi-led government, breathed his last on August 24 at AIIMS in the national capital after suffering from health issues. He was 66 and served as the Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha from 2014 to 2019. On September 6, Congress leader Libra passed away due to health issues. He was 86 and served in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Libra served as a parliamentarian at the Upper House between 1998 to 2004. On September 8, noted lawyer Jethmalani had passed away at the age of 95. He served as the law minister and the urban development minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee cabinet. He had also served as the Chairman of the Bar Council of India. Jethmalani, who was known for taking up high-profile cases, was a Rajya Sabha MP from 2016 to 2019. Dasgupta, a CPI leader, breathed his last in Kolkata on October 31. He was aged 83 and was suffering from heart and kidney-related ailments. Dasgupta was the CPI's former deputy general secretary and a well-known trade unionist. He was elected as a member of the Rajya Sabha in 1985, 1988 and 1994. The winter session of Parliament commenced from today and will go on till December 13. The session will provide a total of 20 sittings spread over a period of 26 days, including four Private Members' days. Many key bills, including the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019, are scheduled to be tabled in this session of the Parliament. Other important bills that are expected to be taken up during the course of the Houses include the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019, Anti Maritime Piracy Bill 2019 and Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019.

Rajya Sabha remembers MPs including Arun Jaitley, Ram Jethmalani

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/look-forward-to-a-productive-parliament-session-pm-narendra-modi-262632">Narendra Modi</a> on Monday said that Rajya Sabha has seen many historic moments and described it (Rajya Sabha) as a far-sighted house.&nbsp;

''Rajya Sabha has made history and has seen history being made as well. It is a far-sighted house,'' the prime minister said during his address in Rajya Sabha during a discussion on 250th session of the House.&nbsp;

The Rajya Sabha gives an opportunity to people away from electoral politics to contribute to the country and its development, Modi said.&nbsp;

Rajya Sabha has risen to the occasion whenever it comes to the good of the nation, Modi said and added, it was widely believed that Triple Talaq bill would not pass here but it did.&nbsp;

Speaking about the landmark GST Bill, which was passed during the first term of Modi government, the prime minister said even GST became a reality after it was passed in this House (Rajya Sabha), <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/brics-pm-narendra-modis-foreign-policy-pivot-262873">the prime minister</a> said.

''We can never forget the role of the Rajya Sabha when bills related to Articles 370 and 35(A) were passed,'' Modi said reminiscing the landmark bill that rescinded the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir and resulted in its bifurcation into two Union Territories.&nbsp;

Watch: PM Modi addresses the 250th session of Parliament

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Quoting &nbsp;Atal Bihari Vajpayee who ha remarked that &nbsp;Rajya Sabha may be the second house but it should not be called a secondary house, Modi said that he agreed with former prime minister's remark and said that Rajya Sabha must be an active supportive house for national development.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-worlds-most-open-and-investment-friendly-economy-pm-modi-at-brics-262166">prime minister</a> had a word praise for NCP and BJD for the way both the parties conducted themselves in the House.

''These parties (NCP and BJD) have strictly adhered to parliamentary norms and never gone into the well. Yet, they have raised their points very effectively,'' he said.

Other parties including BJP can learn from them, he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that Rajya Sabha has seen many historic moments and described it (Rajya Sabha) as a far-sighted house. ''Rajya Sabha has made history and has seen history being made as well.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that Rajya Sabha has seen many historic moments and described it (Rajya Sabha) as a far-sighted house. ''Rajya Sabha has made history and has seen history being made as well. It is a far-sighted house,'' the prime minister said during his address in Rajya Sabha during a discussion on 250th session of the House. The Rajya Sabha gives an opportunity to people away from electoral politics to contribute to the country and its development, Modi said. Rajya Sabha has risen to the occasion whenever it comes to the good of the nation, Modi said and added, it was widely believed that Triple Talaq bill would not pass here but it did. Speaking about the landmark GST Bill, which was passed during the first term of Modi government, the prime minister said even GST became a reality after it was passed in this House (Rajya Sabha), the prime minister said. ''We can never forget the role of the Rajya Sabha when bills related to Articles 370 and 35(A) were passed,'' Modi said reminiscing the landmark bill that rescinded the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir and resulted in its bifurcation into two Union Territories. Watch: PM Modi addresses the 250th session of Parliament Quoting Atal Bihari Vajpayee who ha remarked that Rajya Sabha may be the second house but it should not be called a secondary house, Modi said that he agreed with former prime minister's remark and said that Rajya Sabha must be an active supportive house for national development. The prime minister had a word praise for NCP and BJD for the way both the parties conducted themselves in the House. ''These parties (NCP and BJD) have strictly adhered to parliamentary norms and never gone into the well. Yet, they have raised their points very effectively,'' he said. Other parties including BJP can learn from them, he said.

'This house has seen many historic moments,' says Modi in Rajya Sabha address 

Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha Harivansh Narayan Singh on Sunday expressed condolences over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/veteran-lawyer-ram-jethmalani-passes-at-95-248351">death of eminent lawyer Ram Jethmalani</a>, saying his demise is the end of an era.

Singh said, "Jethmalani was an extraordinary person. His demise is the end of an era. He was not only an eminent lawyer but he also had great political wisdom."

"Jethmalani&nbsp;was a special person with a very sharp personality. He was not afraid of speaking out his mind," Singh said in a statement.

"He will be remembered for the courage with which he fought famous cases and helped people who were in need," the Deputy Chairman said.

"I pray his soul rest in peace and God give strength to his family," the Deputy Chairman added.

Jethmalani, also a former Union Minister, passed away this morning at his residence in the national capital. He was 95.

Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha Harivansh Narayan Singh on Sunday expressed condolences over the death of eminent lawyer Ram Jethmalani, saying his demise is the end of an era.

Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha Harivansh Narayan Singh on Sunday expressed condolences over the death of eminent lawyer Ram Jethmalani, saying his demise is the end of an era. Singh said, "Jethmalani was an extraordinary person. His demise is the end of an era. He was not only an eminent lawyer but he also had great political wisdom." "Jethmalani was a special person with a very sharp personality. He was not afraid of speaking out his mind," Singh said in a statement. "He will be remembered for the courage with which he fought famous cases and helped people who were in need," the Deputy Chairman said. "I pray his soul rest in peace and God give strength to his family," the Deputy Chairman added. Jethmalani, also a former Union Minister, passed away this morning at his residence in the national capital. He was 95.

Jethmalani's demise marks the end of an era: Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman

The Ministry of Home Affairs on Monday said that former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh continues to have a 'Z+' security cover.

MHA's clarification came amidst reports claiming that the government is likely to withdraw the Special Protection Group (SPG) from former Prime Minister's security detail.

&nbsp;"The current security cover review is a periodical and professional exercise based on threat perception that is purely based on a professional assessment by security agencies. Dr Manmohan Singh continues to have a Z+ security cover," read a statement from MHA.

Singh, who was the Prime Minister of India from 2004 to 2014, was last week<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manmohan-singh-elected-unopposed-as-member-of-rajya-sabha-rajasthan-chief-minister-ashok-gehlot-tweets-244110"> elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan</a>.

The BJP did not field any candidate against the senior Congress leader.

The Ministry of Home Affairs on Monday said that former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh continues to have a 'Z+' security cover. MHA's clarification came amidst reports claiming that the government is likely to withdraw the Special Protection Group (SPG) from former Prime Minister's security detail.

The Ministry of Home Affairs on Monday said that former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh continues to have a 'Z+' security cover. MHA's clarification came amidst reports claiming that the government is likely to withdraw the Special Protection Group (SPG) from former Prime Minister's security detail. "The current security cover review is a periodical and professional exercise based on threat perception that is purely based on a professional assessment by security agencies. Dr Manmohan Singh continues to have a Z+ security cover," read a statement from MHA. Singh, who was the Prime Minister of India from 2004 to 2014, was last week elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan. The BJP did not field any candidate against the senior Congress leader.

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh continues to have Z+ security cover: Home Ministry

Governor Satya Pal Malik, in a meeting held at Raj Bhavan on Monday&nbsp;evening, reviewed prevailing security and law and order in the state, in the aftermath of developments in the Parliament relating to Jammu and Kashmir.

K Vijay Kumar, KK Sharma, K Skandan, Farooq Khan-Advisors to Governor, Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir BVR Subrahmanyam were present in the meeting.

The governor's meeting took place as former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-omar-abdullah-mehbooba-mufti-detained-after-special-status-to-jammu-and-kashmir-is-revoked-240931">Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah</a>, who were put under house arrest on Sunday night, were&nbsp;detained hours after resolution on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-revoked-shah-lauds-modi-for-unwavering-commitment-towards-ensuring-indias-unity-integrity-240935">scrapping of Article 370</a> was passed in the Rajya Sabha.

Other political leaders of J&amp;K including Shah Faesal, Mohammed Yousuf Tarigami, Usman Majid have also&nbsp;been put under preventive detention.

Governor was given an assessment of the prevailing situation in the state. K Vijay Kumar, K Skandan, and Farooq Khan, who have returned from Jammu after taking stock of the essential services, briefed the governor about the adequacy of essential supplies and delivery of various public services to the people including electricity, water supply and health care services in both Jammu and Kashmir regions.

The officers also stressed on the need to ensure safety of the general public and advised the administration to give due consideration to the genuine needs of people in the current scenario.

The Chief Secretary informed the Governor that there is no dearth of essential commodities in the Valley and there is sufficient stocking of the same for over three months.

&nbsp;The Indian Army and Air Force were put on high alert on Monday with the Centre set to move over 8,000 paramiltary troops to J&amp;K in view of the changed situation.

Abrogation of article 370: Here are the reactions

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The Governor in the meeting emphasised on the need for constant alertness, preparedness and synergy among various departments and agencies to enable dealing with an emerging situation in a coordinated and effective manner.

He also reiterated the need to constantly maintain a close watch on the ground situation and underlined the importance of sustained efforts to bring peace and harmony in the society for the overall benefit of people.

Meanwhile, the Governor has appealed to the public and leaders of various social, religious and political organisations to cooperate with the government machinery in the maintenance of law and order in the state.

Governor Satya Pal Malik, in a meeting held at Raj Bhavan on Monday evening, reviewed prevailing security and law and order in the state, in the aftermath of developments in the Parliament relating to Jammu and Kashmir.

Governor Satya Pal Malik, in a meeting held at Raj Bhavan on Monday evening, reviewed prevailing security and law and order in the state, in the aftermath of developments in the Parliament relating to Jammu and Kashmir. K Vijay Kumar, KK Sharma, K Skandan, Farooq Khan-Advisors to Governor, Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir BVR Subrahmanyam were present in the meeting. The governor's meeting took place as former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah, who were put under house arrest on Sunday night, were detained hours after resolution on scrapping of Article 370 was passed in the Rajya Sabha. Other political leaders of J&K including Shah Faesal, Mohammed Yousuf Tarigami, Usman Majid have also been put under preventive detention. Governor was given an assessment of the prevailing situation in the state. K Vijay Kumar, K Skandan, and Farooq Khan, who have returned from Jammu after taking stock of the essential services, briefed the governor about the adequacy of essential supplies and delivery of various public services to the people including electricity, water supply and health care services in both Jammu and Kashmir regions. The officers also stressed on the need to ensure safety of the general public and advised the administration to give due consideration to the genuine needs of people in the current scenario. The Chief Secretary informed the Governor that there is no dearth of essential commodities in the Valley and there is sufficient stocking of the same for over three months. The Indian Army and Air Force were put on high alert on Monday with the Centre set to move over 8,000 paramiltary troops to J&K in view of the changed situation. Abrogation of article 370: Here are the reactions The Governor in the meeting emphasised on the need for constant alertness, preparedness and synergy among various departments and agencies to enable dealing with an emerging situation in a coordinated and effective manner. He also reiterated the need to constantly maintain a close watch on the ground situation and underlined the importance of sustained efforts to bring peace and harmony in the society for the overall benefit of people. Meanwhile, the Governor has appealed to the public and leaders of various social, religious and political organisations to cooperate with the government machinery in the maintenance of law and order in the state.

J&K Governor Satya Pal Malik reviews security as government deploys more paramilitary troops

The Opposition on Thursday raised concerns over the "misuse" of The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Bill, 2019, that seeks to designate an individual as a terrorist.&nbsp;

Minister of State for Home, G Kishan Reddy, who tabled the Bill in Rajya Sabha days after it was approved by the Lower House, however, rejected their apprehensions, saying the amendments have been brought in to designate people like Hafiz Saeed, Masood Azhar and Dawood Ibrahim as terrorists.

"The Prime Minister went to foreign countries seeking support to designate Masood Azhar as an international terrorist. The amendments are to designate such individuals as terrorists," Reddy said during the debate.&nbsp;

He slammed the Congress for questioning the government`s intentions and reminded that it was the Congress which declared several outfits as terrorist organisations.&nbsp;

"As many as 34 outfits were declared terror organisations. Individual designations will be made under the law you made in 1967," he said inviting vociferous protests from the Congress.

The minister`s remarks came after several Opposition members including from the Congress, Samajwadi Party, Trinamool Congress and MDMK opposed the Bill and raised concerns about the misuse of the "draconian" provisions in the Bill.

Congress`s Kapil Sibal requested the Home Minister to agree with the proposal of referring the Bill to the Select Committee and added that if he disagrees, he will oppose the Bill.&nbsp;

He said the existing provisions under law have ample space to prosecute anyone who supports terror asserting that the percentage of acquittals in terror cases are huge and convictions are very low.

"The House should think how long should innocent people remain in jail as under trials. While fighting terror, we should also know what is happening on the ground," he said.

The Opposition on Thursday raised concerns over the "misuse" of The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Bill, 2019, that seeks to designate an individual as a terrorist.

The Opposition on Thursday raised concerns over the "misuse" of The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Bill, 2019, that seeks to designate an individual as a terrorist. Minister of State for Home, G Kishan Reddy, who tabled the Bill in Rajya Sabha days after it was approved by the Lower House, however, rejected their apprehensions, saying the amendments have been brought in to designate people like Hafiz Saeed, Masood Azhar and Dawood Ibrahim as terrorists. "The Prime Minister went to foreign countries seeking support to designate Masood Azhar as an international terrorist. The amendments are to designate such individuals as terrorists," Reddy said during the debate. He slammed the Congress for questioning the government`s intentions and reminded that it was the Congress which declared several outfits as terrorist organisations. "As many as 34 outfits were declared terror organisations. Individual designations will be made under the law you made in 1967," he said inviting vociferous protests from the Congress. The minister`s remarks came after several Opposition members including from the Congress, Samajwadi Party, Trinamool Congress and MDMK opposed the Bill and raised concerns about the misuse of the "draconian" provisions in the Bill. Congress`s Kapil Sibal requested the Home Minister to agree with the proposal of referring the Bill to the Select Committee and added that if he disagrees, he will oppose the Bill. He said the existing provisions under law have ample space to prosecute anyone who supports terror asserting that the percentage of acquittals in terror cases are huge and convictions are very low. "The House should think how long should innocent people remain in jail as under trials. While fighting terror, we should also know what is happening on the ground," he said.

Opposition raises concerns over misuse of anti-terror Bill

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

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

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

Bill to provide death penalty for child abuse in Lok Sabha

A Twitter war broke out between PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference (NC) leader Omar Abdullah following the passage of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-passes-triple-talaq-bill-239514">triple talaq bill</a> in Rajya Sabha, with the latter stating that PDP leaders abstaining from voting "helped the government with the numbers needed to pass the bill.

"Soon after the Rajya Sabha passed the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage), Bill, 2019, Mufti tweeted, "Fail to understand the need to pass the triple talaq bill especially since the Supreme Court had already declared it illegal. Undue interference seemingly to punish Muslims. Given the current state of the economy, should this really have been a priority?"

Mufti`s post didn`t go well with Abdullah, who tagged her post on the micro-blogging site and wrote, "Mehbooba Mufti ji, you might want to check how your members voted on this bill before tweeting. I understand they abstained which helped the government with the numbers needed to pass the bill. You can`t help the government and then `fail to understand need to pass`!"

Replying to him, Mufti tweeted, "Omar sahab, I suggest you get off your moral high horse since it was your own party that expelled Soz sahab for voting against the BJP in 1999. FYI in Parliament, abstention is essentially a no vote."Abdullah was quick to retort to Mufti`s claims, and wrote, "Madam, is recounting an incident from TWENTY years ago the best you can do to defend PDP duplicity? So you are accepting you instructed your MPs to abstain. And no an abstention is NOT a no vote, a no vote is a no vote. An abstention helped the BJP this time."

Modi government Tuesday scored a major victory in the Rajya Sabha when the House passed the Triple Talaq Bill after rejecting the opposition`s demand to refer the Bill to the Select Committee and to remove the criminality clause.

The Bill was passed with 99 members in its favour while 84 members voted against it in the final division. In the division on referring the Bill to the Select Committee, the government got 100 votes while 84 voted against.

The BJP-led NDA government, which does not have a majority in the Upper House, still managed to have smooth sailing for the contentious bill because parties like AIADMK, which has 11 members and JDU, with six, walked out after recording their opposition to the Bill. The BJD supported the Bill.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI) 
&nbsp;

A Twitter war broke out between PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference (NC) leader Omar Abdullah following the passage of triple talaq bill in Rajya Sabha, with the latter stating that PDP leaders abstaining from voting "helped the government with the numbers needed to pass the bill.

A Twitter war broke out between PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference (NC) leader Omar Abdullah following the passage of triple talaq bill in Rajya Sabha, with the latter stating that PDP leaders abstaining from voting "helped the government with the numbers needed to pass the bill. "Soon after the Rajya Sabha passed the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage), Bill, 2019, Mufti tweeted, "Fail to understand the need to pass the triple talaq bill especially since the Supreme Court had already declared it illegal. Undue interference seemingly to punish Muslims. Given the current state of the economy, should this really have been a priority?" Mufti`s post didn`t go well with Abdullah, who tagged her post on the micro-blogging site and wrote, "Mehbooba Mufti ji, you might want to check how your members voted on this bill before tweeting. I understand they abstained which helped the government with the numbers needed to pass the bill. You can`t help the government and then `fail to understand need to pass`!" Replying to him, Mufti tweeted, "Omar sahab, I suggest you get off your moral high horse since it was your own party that expelled Soz sahab for voting against the BJP in 1999. FYI in Parliament, abstention is essentially a no vote."Abdullah was quick to retort to Mufti`s claims, and wrote, "Madam, is recounting an incident from TWENTY years ago the best you can do to defend PDP duplicity? So you are accepting you instructed your MPs to abstain. And no an abstention is NOT a no vote, a no vote is a no vote. An abstention helped the BJP this time." Modi government Tuesday scored a major victory in the Rajya Sabha when the House passed the Triple Talaq Bill after rejecting the opposition`s demand to refer the Bill to the Select Committee and to remove the criminality clause. The Bill was passed with 99 members in its favour while 84 members voted against it in the final division. In the division on referring the Bill to the Select Committee, the government got 100 votes while 84 voted against. The BJP-led NDA government, which does not have a majority in the Upper House, still managed to have smooth sailing for the contentious bill because parties like AIADMK, which has 11 members and JDU, with six, walked out after recording their opposition to the Bill. The BJD supported the Bill. (With inputs from ANI)

Twitter war breaks out between Mufti, Omar over passage of triple talaq bill in Rajya Sabha

The Rajya Sabha on Tuesday passed the contentious bill which criminalises the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-minister-ravi-shankar-prasad-tables-triple-talaq-bill-in-rajya-sabha-239408">practice of triple talaq</a>, amidst a walkout by Opposition members accusing the government of "singling out" a community.

In a big boost to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2019, introduced by Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, was passed with 99 members voting in favour whereas 84 voting against it.

Lok Sabha had on Thursday passed the landmark bill after a prolonged debate.

The BJP had issued a whip to its Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha lawmakers to be present in both the Houses today to support the bills introduced by the government.

Watch: What is the triple talaq Bill?

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The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2019, seeks to criminalise the act of instant divorce among Muslims with a three-year jail sentence for men who practice triple talaq, which has been made illegal by the Supreme Court.

The top court, in a landmark judgment in 2017, held the practice "void" and "unconstitutional".

(With inputs from agencies)

The Rajya Sabha on Tuesday passed the contentious bill which criminalises the practice of triple talaq, amidst a walkout by Opposition members accusing the government of "singling out" a community.

The Rajya Sabha on Tuesday passed the contentious bill which criminalises the practice of triple talaq, amidst a walkout by Opposition members accusing the government of "singling out" a community. In a big boost to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2019, introduced by Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, was passed with 99 members voting in favour whereas 84 voting against it. Lok Sabha had on Thursday passed the landmark bill after a prolonged debate. The BJP had issued a whip to its Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha lawmakers to be present in both the Houses today to support the bills introduced by the government. Watch: What is the triple talaq Bill? × The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2019, seeks to criminalise the act of instant divorce among Muslims with a three-year jail sentence for men who practice triple talaq, which has been made illegal by the Supreme Court. The top court, in a landmark judgment in 2017, held the practice "void" and "unconstitutional". (With inputs from agencies)

BJP passes big test in Parliament after Rajya Sabha clears Triple Talaq Bill

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