Congress MP Sanjay Singh on Tuesday resigned from the party and Rajya Sabha as well and said he will join the Bharatiya Janata Party on Wednesday.

Addressing a press conference, he said that the Congress party is still living in its past and the leadership is completely missing.&nbsp;"There is a complete lack of communication in Congress party and the leadership is completely missing. Unfortunately, Congress is living in its past and is unaware of the future. Today, the country is with PM Modi &amp; if the country is with him, I'm with him. I will join BJP tomorrow. I have resigned from the party, as well as my membership of Rajya Sabha," he said.

Meanwhile, Rajya Sabha chairman M Venkaiah Naidu has accepted the resignation of Sanjay Singh as member of the upper house.&nbsp; 
 
His wife Ameeta, who had represented Amethi constituency twice in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, also resigned from the party. 
 
Sanjay Singh, who had earlier served in Janata Dal, was fielded by Congress against BJP heavyweight Maneka Gandhi in the recent Lok Sabha elections. He finished in the third position garnering only about 41,000 votes.

(With inputs from ANI)

Congress MP Sanjay Singh on Tuesday resigned from the party and Rajya Sabha as well and said he will join the Bharatiya Janata Party on Wednesday. Addressing a press conference, he said that the Congress party is still living in its past and the leadership is completely missing.

Congress MP Sanjay Singh on Tuesday resigned from the party and Rajya Sabha as well and said he will join the Bharatiya Janata Party on Wednesday. Addressing a press conference, he said that the Congress party is still living in its past and the leadership is completely missing. "There is a complete lack of communication in Congress party and the leadership is completely missing. Unfortunately, Congress is living in its past and is unaware of the future. Today, the country is with PM Modi & if the country is with him, I'm with him. I will join BJP tomorrow. I have resigned from the party, as well as my membership of Rajya Sabha," he said. Meanwhile, Rajya Sabha chairman M Venkaiah Naidu has accepted the resignation of Sanjay Singh as member of the upper house. His wife Ameeta, who had represented Amethi constituency twice in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, also resigned from the party. Sanjay Singh, who had earlier served in Janata Dal, was fielded by Congress against BJP heavyweight Maneka Gandhi in the recent Lok Sabha elections. He finished in the third position garnering only about 41,000 votes. (With inputs from ANI)

Congress MP Sanjay Singh resigns from party, to join Bharatiya Janata Party

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rajya Sabha passes POCSO (Amendment) Bill, 2019

Government on Wednesday said that over 41 lakh people have been found ineligible for inclusion in the draft National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam.

"Over 40 lakh persons were not found eligible for inclusion in draft National Register of Citizens, in addition, over one lakh persons were subsequently found ineligible after they were originally included in draft NRC, " Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, informed the Rajya Sabha in a written reply.

On Tuesday, the Supreme Court had extended the deadline for the final publication of the NRC to August 31.&nbsp;

On July 19, Solicitor General (SG) and senior Supreme Court lawyer, Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre and Assam Government, pleaded the Supreme Court to extend the July 31 deadline for finalisation of NRC in Assam.

Mehta told the SC, "There is a growing perception that lakhs of illegal migrants have been included in the NRC list in alleged collusion with local NRC officials in the state of Assam. Illegal immigrants have to be dealt severely. India cannot be the refugee capital of the world."

Last week, Union Minister Amit Shah had said that the government is determined to identify all the illegal immigrants and infiltrators living on every inch of this country and deport them as per the international law.

Responding to a supplementary query by Samajwadi Party member Javed Ali Khan in the Rajya Sabha, Shah said: "It is a very good question. The NRC is part of the Assam Accord and was also in (BJP's) election manifesto based on which the government has came to power. The government will identify illegal immigrants living on every inch of the country's soil and will deport them as per international law."&nbsp;

The NRC aims to separate "genuine" citizens from "illegal immigrants". The government has maintained that its intention is to ensure no illegal immigrant is registered under the NRC and no genuine citizen is left out of it.

(With inputs from agencies)

Government on Wednesday said that over 41 lakh people have been found ineligible for inclusion in the draft National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam. "Over 40 lakh persons were not found eligible for inclusion in draft National Register of Citizens, in addition, over one lakh persons were subsequently found ineligible after they were originally included in draft NRC, " Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, informed the Rajya Sabha in a written reply.

Government on Wednesday said that over 41 lakh people have been found ineligible for inclusion in the draft National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam. "Over 40 lakh persons were not found eligible for inclusion in draft National Register of Citizens, in addition, over one lakh persons were subsequently found ineligible after they were originally included in draft NRC, " Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, informed the Rajya Sabha in a written reply. On Tuesday, the Supreme Court had extended the deadline for the final publication of the NRC to August 31. On July 19, Solicitor General (SG) and senior Supreme Court lawyer, Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre and Assam Government, pleaded the Supreme Court to extend the July 31 deadline for finalisation of NRC in Assam. Mehta told the SC, "There is a growing perception that lakhs of illegal migrants have been included in the NRC list in alleged collusion with local NRC officials in the state of Assam. Illegal immigrants have to be dealt severely. India cannot be the refugee capital of the world." Last week, Union Minister Amit Shah had said that the government is determined to identify all the illegal immigrants and infiltrators living on every inch of this country and deport them as per the international law. Responding to a supplementary query by Samajwadi Party member Javed Ali Khan in the Rajya Sabha, Shah said: "It is a very good question. The NRC is part of the Assam Accord and was also in (BJP's) election manifesto based on which the government has came to power. The government will identify illegal immigrants living on every inch of the country's soil and will deport them as per international law." The NRC aims to separate "genuine" citizens from "illegal immigrants". The government has maintained that its intention is to ensure no illegal immigrant is registered under the NRC and no genuine citizen is left out of it. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 41 lakh found ineligible under draft NRC: Government informs Rajya Sabha

The Rajya Sabha on Wednesday bid farewell to five of its members from Tamil Nadu who have completed six years of their term.

The five retiring MPs are Maitreyan, D Raja, KR Arjunan, R Lakshmanan and T Rathinavel.&nbsp;

Rajya Sabha chairman M Venkaiah Naidu appreciated the five MPs for their contributions in the law-making process and public service.

Meanwhile, outgoing AIADMK MP V Maitreyan broke down during his farewell speech in Rajya Sabha.

At this juncture I place on record deep sense of gratitude towards my beloved leader, Amma (Jayalalithaa) for having immense faith in me &amp; sending me to this House for 3 terms. She gave me the honour of being the only member from AIADMK to have been given membership to Rajya Sabha for three terms. My unalloyed loyalty to her will always be there," Maitreyan said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Outgoing AIADMK MP V Maitreyan breaks down while giving farewell speech in Rajya Sabha; says, "At this juncture I place on record deep sense of gratitude towards my beloved leader, Amma (Jayalalithaa) for having immense faith in me &amp; sending me to this House for 3 terms," <a href="https://t.co/flFpqRqen4">pic.twitter.com/flFpqRqen4</a>
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He also expressed his gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "I cannot forget my longtime friend and Prime Minister Narendra Modi whom I know since 90s and I had been a loyal emissary between him and Madam. I sincerely thank him for personal affection for me," he said.&nbsp;

 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Rajya Sabha on Wednesday bid farewell to five of its members from Tamil Nadu who have completed six years of their term. The five retiring MPs are Maitreyan, D Raja, KR Arjunan, R Lakshmanan and T Rathinavel.

The Rajya Sabha on Wednesday bid farewell to five of its members from Tamil Nadu who have completed six years of their term. The five retiring MPs are Maitreyan, D Raja, KR Arjunan, R Lakshmanan and T Rathinavel. Rajya Sabha chairman M Venkaiah Naidu appreciated the five MPs for their contributions in the law-making process and public service. Meanwhile, outgoing AIADMK MP V Maitreyan broke down during his farewell speech in Rajya Sabha. At this juncture I place on record deep sense of gratitude towards my beloved leader, Amma (Jayalalithaa) for having immense faith in me & sending me to this House for 3 terms. She gave me the honour of being the only member from AIADMK to have been given membership to Rajya Sabha for three terms. My unalloyed loyalty to her will always be there," Maitreyan said. #WATCH Outgoing AIADMK MP V Maitreyan breaks down while giving farewell speech in Rajya Sabha; says, "At this juncture I place on record deep sense of gratitude towards my beloved leader, Amma (Jayalalithaa) for having immense faith in me & sending me to this House for 3 terms," pic.twitter.com/flFpqRqen4 — ANI (@ANI) July 24, 2019 × He also expressed his gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "I cannot forget my longtime friend and Prime Minister Narendra Modi whom I know since 90s and I had been a loyal emissary between him and Madam. I sincerely thank him for personal affection for me," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Rajya Sabha bids farewell to its five outgoing members

The ongoing Monsoon session of the Parliament could be extended for 10 days, Home Minister Amit Shah informed lawmakers during the BJP`s Parliamentary party meeting on Tuesday. 
 
The meeting was held at the Library Building, ahead of the day's proceedings. Apart from the BJP president, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Prahlad Joshi also told MPs about the likely extension of the session. 
 
Among those in attendance were Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, to name a few. After the previous meeting held last week, Joshi had said the Prime Minister reiterated that attendance is compulsory in the House and there is no exception to this. He had also asked lawmakers to ensure that the government schemes reach people. 
 
"There are complaints that ministers remain absent during their roster duties. Prime Minister asked for their names by the evening and said that serious cognizance will be taken," a senior BJP parliamentarian, who was present in the meeting, had told ANI on the condition of anonymity.

The ongoing Monsoon session of the Parliament could be extended for 10 days, Home Minister Amit Shah informed lawmakers during the BJP`s Parliamentary party meeting on Tuesday.

The ongoing Monsoon session of the Parliament could be extended for 10 days, Home Minister Amit Shah informed lawmakers during the BJP`s Parliamentary party meeting on Tuesday. The meeting was held at the Library Building, ahead of the day's proceedings. Apart from the BJP president, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Prahlad Joshi also told MPs about the likely extension of the session. Among those in attendance were Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, to name a few. After the previous meeting held last week, Joshi had said the Prime Minister reiterated that attendance is compulsory in the House and there is no exception to this. He had also asked lawmakers to ensure that the government schemes reach people. "There are complaints that ministers remain absent during their roster duties. Prime Minister asked for their names by the evening and said that serious cognizance will be taken," a senior BJP parliamentarian, who was present in the meeting, had told ANI on the condition of anonymity.

Monsoon Session of Parliament may be extended for 10 days, Amit Shah informs party MPs

The Central government has approved 1,377 km of border roads along the Indo-Nepal border at an estimated cost of Rs 3,853 crore, the Rajya Sabha was informed on Monday.

The information was given by Union Minister of State for Defence Shripad Naik in a written reply to Congress MP Mohd Ali Khan in the Upper House of Parliament.&nbsp;

Also, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is entrusted with the construction and improvement of 269.05 km of roads along the Indo-Nepal border at an estimated cost of Rs 1,514 crore.

The Central government has approved 1,377 km of border roads along the Indo-Nepal border at an estimated cost of Rs 3,853 crore, the Rajya Sabha was informed on Monday.

The Central government has approved 1,377 km of border roads along the Indo-Nepal border at an estimated cost of Rs 3,853 crore, the Rajya Sabha was informed on Monday. The information was given by Union Minister of State for Defence Shripad Naik in a written reply to Congress MP Mohd Ali Khan in the Upper House of Parliament. Also, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is entrusted with the construction and improvement of 269.05 km of roads along the Indo-Nepal border at an estimated cost of Rs 1,514 crore.

Central government approves 1,377 km of border roads along Indo-Nepal border

Two days after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-passes-national-investigation-agency-amendment-bill-236165">Lok Sabha passed the National Investigation Agency (Amendment) Bill</a>, the Rajya Sabha also cleared the bill on Wednesday.

The bill was passed in the Lok Sabha with 278 members voting in its favour and six against it. While it&nbsp;was passed in the Rajya Sabha by a voice vote.

The National Investigation Agency (Amendment) Bill&nbsp;aims at enhancing the jurisdiction of NIA to investigate scheduled offences committed outside India targeting Indians as well as Indian assets abroad.

Assuring the House against the misuse of the bill, Home Minister Amit Shah said, "I want to assure the House that Prime Minister Narendra Modi government will not allow any misuse of this law."

He further urged the members to pass the Bill unanimously so that a strong message be sent to terrorists and the world that India is united in its fight against terrorism.

When the Bill was taken up for voting, Congress'&nbsp;T Subbirami Reddy moved some amendments, which were negated.&nbsp;

The amendments in the Bill will enable the NIA to additionally investigate offences related to human trafficking, counterfeit currency, manufacture or sale of prohibited arms, cyber-terrorism and offences under the Explosive Substances Act, 1908.

It also provides for constituting special courts for the trial of scheduled offences such as human trafficking and cyber terrorism.&nbsp;

Addressing the lower house on Monday, Home Minister Amit Shah had said, "Repealing POTA (Prevention of Terrorism Act) was not a right step, the number of terrorist incidents increased so much between 2004-2008 that the then UPA government had to bring in NIA. It was after Mumbai attack that it was decided to form NIA.''

The NIA was set up in 2009 in the wake of the Mumbai terror attack which had claimed 166 lives.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI) 
&nbsp;

Two days after the Lok Sabha passed the National Investigation Agency (Amendment) Bill, the Rajya Sabha also cleared the bill on Wednesday. The bill was passed in the Lok Sabha with 278 members voting in its favour and six against it.

Two days after the Lok Sabha passed the National Investigation Agency (Amendment) Bill, the Rajya Sabha also cleared the bill on Wednesday. The bill was passed in the Lok Sabha with 278 members voting in its favour and six against it. While it was passed in the Rajya Sabha by a voice vote. The National Investigation Agency (Amendment) Bill aims at enhancing the jurisdiction of NIA to investigate scheduled offences committed outside India targeting Indians as well as Indian assets abroad. Assuring the House against the misuse of the bill, Home Minister Amit Shah said, "I want to assure the House that Prime Minister Narendra Modi government will not allow any misuse of this law." He further urged the members to pass the Bill unanimously so that a strong message be sent to terrorists and the world that India is united in its fight against terrorism. When the Bill was taken up for voting, Congress' T Subbirami Reddy moved some amendments, which were negated. The amendments in the Bill will enable the NIA to additionally investigate offences related to human trafficking, counterfeit currency, manufacture or sale of prohibited arms, cyber-terrorism and offences under the Explosive Substances Act, 1908. It also provides for constituting special courts for the trial of scheduled offences such as human trafficking and cyber terrorism. Addressing the lower house on Monday, Home Minister Amit Shah had said, "Repealing POTA (Prevention of Terrorism Act) was not a right step, the number of terrorist incidents increased so much between 2004-2008 that the then UPA government had to bring in NIA. It was after Mumbai attack that it was decided to form NIA.'' The NIA was set up in 2009 in the wake of the Mumbai terror attack which had claimed 166 lives. (With inputs from ANI)

Rajya Sabha passes National Investigation Agency (Amendment) Bill

Bharatiya Janata Party`s parliamentary party meeting commenced at Parliament Library Building here on Tuesday with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/narendra-modi-20-would-propel-affordable-housing-in-india-224832">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>, Home Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/home-minister-amit-shah-emerges-as-clear-no-2-224821">Amit Shah </a>and other senior leaders of the party in attendance.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi, Minister of External Affairs, S. Jaishankar, and Minister of State for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan were among the early leaders to arrive for the meeting.&nbsp;

On July 14, BJP had issued a notice to its Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs informing them about today's meeting and asked them to ensure attendance.&nbsp;

The meeting comes ahead of the beginning of the day`s proceeding in the ongoing Monsoon Session of the Parliament.

Bharatiya Janata Party`s parliamentary party meeting commenced at Parliament Library Building here on Tuesday with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and other senior leaders of the party in attendance.

Bharatiya Janata Party`s parliamentary party meeting commenced at Parliament Library Building here on Tuesday with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and other senior leaders of the party in attendance. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi, Minister of External Affairs, S. Jaishankar, and Minister of State for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan were among the early leaders to arrive for the meeting. On July 14, BJP had issued a notice to its Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs informing them about today's meeting and asked them to ensure attendance. The meeting comes ahead of the beginning of the day`s proceeding in the ongoing Monsoon Session of the Parliament.

PM Narendra Modi, Amit Shah attend Bharatiya Janata Party parliamentary party meet

A BJP lawmaker on Tuesday gave a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aap-mp-gives-zero-hour-notice-in-rajya-sabha-over-centre-using-agencies-to-target-opponents-235971">Zero Hour</a> notice in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-vilas-paswan-takes-oath-as-rajya-sabha-member-232001">Rajya Sabha</a> over the forced conversion of Hindus in Pakistan.

Outlining the atrocities against Hindus, a minority in the neighbouring nation, and the atrocities against them, BJP lawmaker Kirodi Lal Meena submitted the notice in the Upper House.&nbsp;

The Zero Hour denotes the time immediately following the Question Hour in both the Houses of Parliament.&nbsp;

During this hour, parliamentarians can raise matters of great importance without the mandatory ten-day notice. The lawmaker`s move comes after a large number of Hindus and Sikhs gathered in Jacobabad city of Pakistan`s Sindh province on July 12, to protest against the forced conversion of Hindu girls.

On June 29, a Hindu teenage girl, Payal Kumari, was allegedly abducted by her teacher Kamran Soomor from Thatta in Sindh.

The protesters were holding banners demanding justice for Payal Kumari and asked for the introduction of legislation against forced conversions. They also condemned Prime Minister Imran Khan for not protecting the rights of minorities in the country.

Scores of protests are taking place across Sindh against the persecution of Sindhi Hindus, particularly the forced conversions of Sindhi Hindu girls.

Recently, a major protest was held in Islamkot town in which a large number of Hindu women carried out a protest march and raised their voice against forced conversion of Hindu girls and the misuse of the blasphemy law.

In February and March this year, Pakistan's Hindu leaders had highlighted the issue of the kidnapping of two sisters, Raveena and Reena. They were kidnapped and forcibly converted to Islam and then married to men in their forties in Dhaka town of Sindh`s Gotki district.

A BJP lawmaker on Tuesday gave a Zero Hour notice in the Rajya Sabha over the forced conversion of Hindus in Pakistan. Outlining the atrocities against Hindus, a minority in the neighbouring nation, and the atrocities against them, BJP lawmaker Kirodi Lal Meena submitted the notice in the Upper House.

A BJP lawmaker on Tuesday gave a Zero Hour notice in the Rajya Sabha over the forced conversion of Hindus in Pakistan. Outlining the atrocities against Hindus, a minority in the neighbouring nation, and the atrocities against them, BJP lawmaker Kirodi Lal Meena submitted the notice in the Upper House. The Zero Hour denotes the time immediately following the Question Hour in both the Houses of Parliament. During this hour, parliamentarians can raise matters of great importance without the mandatory ten-day notice. The lawmaker`s move comes after a large number of Hindus and Sikhs gathered in Jacobabad city of Pakistan`s Sindh province on July 12, to protest against the forced conversion of Hindu girls. On June 29, a Hindu teenage girl, Payal Kumari, was allegedly abducted by her teacher Kamran Soomor from Thatta in Sindh. The protesters were holding banners demanding justice for Payal Kumari and asked for the introduction of legislation against forced conversions. They also condemned Prime Minister Imran Khan for not protecting the rights of minorities in the country. Scores of protests are taking place across Sindh against the persecution of Sindhi Hindus, particularly the forced conversions of Sindhi Hindu girls. Recently, a major protest was held in Islamkot town in which a large number of Hindu women carried out a protest march and raised their voice against forced conversion of Hindu girls and the misuse of the blasphemy law. In February and March this year, Pakistan's Hindu leaders had highlighted the issue of the kidnapping of two sisters, Raveena and Reena. They were kidnapped and forcibly converted to Islam and then married to men in their forties in Dhaka town of Sindh`s Gotki district.

Bharatiya Janata Party lawmaker Kirodi Lal Meena gives Zero Hour notice in Rajya Sabha over forced conversion of Hindus in Pakistan

Weeks after 13 Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel lost their lives in an AN-32 crash, the government informed Rajya Sabha on Monday that more than half of these planes in service with IAF have been upgraded with the installation of modern avionics.

"More than half of IAF's AN-32 aircraft upgraded with the structural upgrade as well as installation of advanced avionics and the remaining are under upgradation in a phased manner," Minister of State for Defence, Shripad Naik informed Rajya Sabha.

He also informed that serviceability of the fleet is at par with other fleets.

"Serviceability of the fleet is at par with other fleets. There is a shortage of certain spares (Russian origin) due to strained relations between Russia and Ukraine. At present, IAF has 98 AN-32 aircraft and none of the aircraft has outlived its operational life," he said.

On June 3, an AN-32 transport aircraft with 13 IAF personnel onboard went missing after taking off from Jorhat Air Force Station. The wreckage of the aircraft was found on June 11 on a mountain slope and all air-warriors died in the crash.

Weeks after 13 Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel lost their lives in an AN-32 crash, the government informed Rajya Sabha on Monday that more than half of these planes in service with IAF have been upgraded with the installation of modern avionics.

Weeks after 13 Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel lost their lives in an AN-32 crash, the government informed Rajya Sabha on Monday that more than half of these planes in service with IAF have been upgraded with the installation of modern avionics. "More than half of IAF's AN-32 aircraft upgraded with the structural upgrade as well as installation of advanced avionics and the remaining are under upgradation in a phased manner," Minister of State for Defence, Shripad Naik informed Rajya Sabha. He also informed that serviceability of the fleet is at par with other fleets. "Serviceability of the fleet is at par with other fleets. There is a shortage of certain spares (Russian origin) due to strained relations between Russia and Ukraine. At present, IAF has 98 AN-32 aircraft and none of the aircraft has outlived its operational life," he said. On June 3, an AN-32 transport aircraft with 13 IAF personnel onboard went missing after taking off from Jorhat Air Force Station. The wreckage of the aircraft was found on June 11 on a mountain slope and all air-warriors died in the crash.

More than half of IAF's AN-32 upgraded: Defence Ministry informs Rajya Sabha

The Centre on Wednesday informed Rajya Sabha that a pilot project has been approved to replace the existing old design or composite fencing with a new "anti-cut" and "anti-rust" modular fencing in 7.18 kilometres India-Pakistan border length in Amritsar.

Replying to a question on "what measures government took for progress of pilot project for security of India-Pak border in Punjab" raised by opposition in the House, Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai said in Rajya Sabha, "A pilot project has been approved to replace the existing old design/composite fencing with a new "anti-cut" and "anti-rust" modular fencing in 7.18 km border length in Amritsar and work has recently been awarded.

"Two Pilot projects have been taken up to replace the existing "old design/composite fencing" with a new "anti-cut and anti-rust" modular fencing (New Design Fence).&nbsp;

While the pilot project for the construction of New Design Fence in 3 km border length in Assam has been completed, another pilot project in 7.18 km border length in Punjab has been approved and work has been awarded.

It has been decided to deploy technological solutions in the form of Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS), in difficult terrain on Indo-Pakistan Border (IPB) and Indo-Bangladesh Border (IBB).

The CIBMS involves integration of manpower, sensors, networks, intelligence and command and control solutions and includes inter alia Electro-Optic Sensors (high-resolution day and night cameras), Radars and other devices.

The Centre on Wednesday informed Rajya Sabha that a pilot project has been approved to replace the existing old design or composite fencing with a new "anti-cut" and "anti-rust" modular fencing in 7.

The Centre on Wednesday informed Rajya Sabha that a pilot project has been approved to replace the existing old design or composite fencing with a new "anti-cut" and "anti-rust" modular fencing in 7.18 kilometres India-Pakistan border length in Amritsar. Replying to a question on "what measures government took for progress of pilot project for security of India-Pak border in Punjab" raised by opposition in the House, Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai said in Rajya Sabha, "A pilot project has been approved to replace the existing old design/composite fencing with a new "anti-cut" and "anti-rust" modular fencing in 7.18 km border length in Amritsar and work has recently been awarded. "Two Pilot projects have been taken up to replace the existing "old design/composite fencing" with a new "anti-cut and anti-rust" modular fencing (New Design Fence). While the pilot project for the construction of New Design Fence in 3 km border length in Assam has been completed, another pilot project in 7.18 km border length in Punjab has been approved and work has been awarded. It has been decided to deploy technological solutions in the form of Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS), in difficult terrain on Indo-Pakistan Border (IPB) and Indo-Bangladesh Border (IBB). The CIBMS involves integration of manpower, sensors, networks, intelligence and command and control solutions and includes inter alia Electro-Optic Sensors (high-resolution day and night cameras), Radars and other devices.

Pilot project approved to replace existing border fencing in Amritsar: Centre in RS

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Parliamentary party meeting took place on Tuesday at the Parliament library building.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the meeting which included the Members of Parliament of both the houses.

Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Pralhad Joshi briefed the media about the meeting.

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Briefed the Media after the BJP Parliamentary Party Meeting today at GMC Balayogi Auditorium along with <a href="https://twitter.com/arjunrammeghwal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@arjunrammeghwal</a> ji<a href="https://twitter.com/mpa_india?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mpa_india</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4India</a> <a href="https://t.co/VUF3SI88g1">pic.twitter.com/VUF3SI88g1</a>
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While addressing the media, Joshi said, ''In his address, PM Modi mentioned a very important programme regarding 'Gandhi 150', the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. Between October 2-31, a 150 kilometres long ''padayatra'' will be undertaken in each Lok Sabha constituency.''

''Rajya Sabha MPs will be allotted a constituency. 15-20 teams will be formed in each constituency. They'll undertake 15 kilometres 'padayatra' daily. MPs will organise programs on Gandhi Ji, freedom struggle, tree plantation. There'll be a party level committee to implement it,'' Joshi added.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and other senior leaders were also present at the meeting.

The leaders at the meeting congratulated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-2019-here-is-what-favours-you-and-what-does-not-233308">Sitharaman for presenting the Union Budget 2019</a>. She is the first full-time woman Finance minister who presented the budget.

This was the first meeting of BJP after the Budget.

The finance minister unveiled India's Budget for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2020, to Parliament on June 5. She announced a slew of measures in the Budget to boost the economy.&nbsp;

The budget proposals were welcomed with frequent thumping of desks by the treasury benches with PM Modi too joining the members.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Parliamentary party meeting took place on Tuesday at the Parliament library building. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the meeting which included the Members of Parliament of both the houses.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Parliamentary party meeting took place on Tuesday at the Parliament library building. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the meeting which included the Members of Parliament of both the houses. Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Pralhad Joshi briefed the media about the meeting. Briefed the Media after the BJP Parliamentary Party Meeting today at GMC Balayogi Auditorium along with @arjunrammeghwal ji@mpa_india @narendramodi @BJP4India pic.twitter.com/VUF3SI88g1 — Pralhad Joshi (@JoshiPralhad) July 9, 2019 × While addressing the media, Joshi said, ''In his address, PM Modi mentioned a very important programme regarding 'Gandhi 150', the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. Between October 2-31, a 150 kilometres long ''padayatra'' will be undertaken in each Lok Sabha constituency.'' ''Rajya Sabha MPs will be allotted a constituency. 15-20 teams will be formed in each constituency. They'll undertake 15 kilometres 'padayatra' daily. MPs will organise programs on Gandhi Ji, freedom struggle, tree plantation. There'll be a party level committee to implement it,'' Joshi added. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and other senior leaders were also present at the meeting. The leaders at the meeting congratulated Sitharaman for presenting the Union Budget 2019. She is the first full-time woman Finance minister who presented the budget. This was the first meeting of BJP after the Budget. The finance minister unveiled India's Budget for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2020, to Parliament on June 5. She announced a slew of measures in the Budget to boost the economy. The budget proposals were welcomed with frequent thumping of desks by the treasury benches with PM Modi too joining the members.

PM Modi asks MPs to take 150 kilometres march on Gandhi Jayanti

Members of Parliament (MPs) from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/samajwadi-party-will-support-extension-of-presidents-rule-in-jammu-kashmir-ram-gopal-yadav-232008">Trinamool Congress (TMC)</a> on Monday gave Zero Hour notice in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-vilas-paswan-takes-oath-as-rajya-sabha-member-232001">Rajya Sabha</a> over two different issues about the Centre's recent proposals.

TMC lawmaker Manish Gupta has given Zero Hour notice in the Upper House of Parliament over the government`s proposal to link data of three crore students to Facebook.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, another MP Dola Sen from TMC has given the notice in Rajya Sabha over the Centre`s proposal to divest 42 public sector units.

The Zero Hour refers to the time immediately following the Question Hour in both the Houses of Parliament.

&nbsp;During this hour, parliamentarians can raise matters of great importance without the mandatory ten days advance notice.

&nbsp;The first Session of the 17th Lok Sabha, which commenced on June 17, will culminate on July 26.

Members of Parliament (MPs) from Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Monday gave Zero Hour notice in Rajya Sabha over two different issues about the Centre's recent proposals.

Members of Parliament (MPs) from Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Monday gave Zero Hour notice in Rajya Sabha over two different issues about the Centre's recent proposals. TMC lawmaker Manish Gupta has given Zero Hour notice in the Upper House of Parliament over the government`s proposal to link data of three crore students to Facebook. Meanwhile, another MP Dola Sen from TMC has given the notice in Rajya Sabha over the Centre`s proposal to divest 42 public sector units. The Zero Hour refers to the time immediately following the Question Hour in both the Houses of Parliament. During this hour, parliamentarians can raise matters of great importance without the mandatory ten days advance notice. The first Session of the 17th Lok Sabha, which commenced on June 17, will culminate on July 26.

Trinamool Congress MPs give two Zero Hour notices in Rajya Sabha over Centre's proposals

Congress party is all set to send former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to the Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan, highly placed sources in the party told ANI on Tuesday.

The seat has been vacant after the death of state BJP president Madan Lal Saini. Saini was elected to the Rajya Sabha last year when the BJP was in power in the state.

However, this time around, the Congress party is in majority in the Legislative Assembly.

Manmohan Singh's name as a candidate for the Rajya Sabha seat has almost been finalised though a final decision in this regard will be taken only after the announcement of elections, a senior Congress leader said.

A minister in Rajasthan government also confirmed that a discussion about sending Manmohan Singh from Rajasthan is on.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot met the former Prime Minister at his residence here on Monday after meeting the party president Rahul Gandhi.

When asked about the development, Singh's office said that no information in this regard has been shared by the party.

Even the elections have not been announced yet, his office said, while terming his meeting with Gehlot as a courtesy call.

The former Prime Minister represented Assam in the Rajya Sabha for 28 years before his tenure ended last month. Last month, the Congress had approached the DMK for help in sending Singh to the Upper House of Parliament.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Congress party is all set to send former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to the Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan, highly placed sources in the party told ANI on Tuesday.

Congress party is all set to send former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to the Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan, highly placed sources in the party told ANI on Tuesday. The seat has been vacant after the death of state BJP president Madan Lal Saini. Saini was elected to the Rajya Sabha last year when the BJP was in power in the state. However, this time around, the Congress party is in majority in the Legislative Assembly. Manmohan Singh's name as a candidate for the Rajya Sabha seat has almost been finalised though a final decision in this regard will be taken only after the announcement of elections, a senior Congress leader said. A minister in Rajasthan government also confirmed that a discussion about sending Manmohan Singh from Rajasthan is on. Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot met the former Prime Minister at his residence here on Monday after meeting the party president Rahul Gandhi. When asked about the development, Singh's office said that no information in this regard has been shared by the party. Even the elections have not been announced yet, his office said, while terming his meeting with Gehlot as a courtesy call. The former Prime Minister represented Assam in the Rajya Sabha for 28 years before his tenure ended last month. Last month, the Congress had approached the DMK for help in sending Singh to the Upper House of Parliament.

Congress all set to send Manmohan Singh to Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan

Rajya Sabha on Monday approved the statutory resolution to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/samajwadi-party-will-support-extension-of-presidents-rule-in-jammu-kashmir-ram-gopal-yadav-232008">extend President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir</a>. The extension is for a period of further 6 months which will come into effect from July 3.

The House also passed Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019.

While regional parties and the Congress did not stand in the favour of the extension, scores of political parties like Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party, Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress and the Biju Janata Dal announced their support to the extension and the bill on Monday.&nbsp;

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Rajya Sabha approves statutory resolution to extend President's rule in J&amp;K for a further period of 6 months with effect from 3rd July 2019; Also passes J&amp;K Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019. <a href="https://t.co/SkbbXnf1UV">pic.twitter.com/SkbbXnf1UV</a>
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On June 28, Lok Sabha approved the statutory resolution to extend President's Rule in Jammu &amp; Kashmir with effect from July 3rd, 2019.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah had moved a resolution earlier in the lower house and had said that the extension was essential to facilitate fresh Assembly elections in the state later this year.

Shah, earlier in the day, said the government has no other option but to extend President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir as the Election Commission wants to hold Assembly elections in the state by the end of 2019.

Previously, former J&amp;K Chief Minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah criticised Shah’s argument in the House as an "unacceptable one".&nbsp;

“So the Home Minister’s argument is that because the Congress has used Article 356 more times than anyone else the Modi government is justified in denying the people of J&amp;K an elected government. That’s an unacceptable argument,” Abdullah tweeted on Friday.

The Congress strongly opposed the extension, blaming the "incompatible" alliance of BJP and PDP for the current security situation in the state.

"Today the situation is such that we have to extend the President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir for every six months. Its roots are in the incompatible alliance of PDP and BJP in 2015," Congress leader Manish Tewari said in the Lok Sabha on June 28.&nbsp;

The President's Rule was implemented in the state in June last year following the collapse of the PDP-BJP alliance. The State Assembly, initially kept in suspended animation was dissolved by Governor Satya Pal Malik in November.

Rajya Sabha on Monday approved the statutory resolution to extend President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir. The extension is for a period of further 6 months which will come into effect from July 3.

Rajya Sabha on Monday approved the statutory resolution to extend President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir. The extension is for a period of further 6 months which will come into effect from July 3. The House also passed Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019. While regional parties and the Congress did not stand in the favour of the extension, scores of political parties like Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party, Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress and the Biju Janata Dal announced their support to the extension and the bill on Monday. Rajya Sabha approves statutory resolution to extend President's rule in J&K for a further period of 6 months with effect from 3rd July 2019; Also passes J&K Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019. pic.twitter.com/SkbbXnf1UV — ANI (@ANI) July 1, 2019 × On June 28, Lok Sabha approved the statutory resolution to extend President's Rule in Jammu & Kashmir with effect from July 3rd, 2019. Union Home Minister Amit Shah had moved a resolution earlier in the lower house and had said that the extension was essential to facilitate fresh Assembly elections in the state later this year. Shah, earlier in the day, said the government has no other option but to extend President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir as the Election Commission wants to hold Assembly elections in the state by the end of 2019. Previously, former J&K Chief Minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah criticised Shah’s argument in the House as an "unacceptable one". “So the Home Minister’s argument is that because the Congress has used Article 356 more times than anyone else the Modi government is justified in denying the people of J&K an elected government. That’s an unacceptable argument,” Abdullah tweeted on Friday. The Congress strongly opposed the extension, blaming the "incompatible" alliance of BJP and PDP for the current security situation in the state. "Today the situation is such that we have to extend the President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir for every six months. Its roots are in the incompatible alliance of PDP and BJP in 2015," Congress leader Manish Tewari said in the Lok Sabha on June 28. The President's Rule was implemented in the state in June last year following the collapse of the PDP-BJP alliance. The State Assembly, initially kept in suspended animation was dissolved by Governor Satya Pal Malik in November.

Rajya Sabha approves statutory resolution to extend President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir for 6 months

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) on Monday announced the names of its three nominees for the ensuing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/s-jaishankar-files-nomination-papers-for-rajya-sabha-poll-230257">Rajya Sabha polls</a>.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/m-k-stalins-magananimity-ensured-bjp-aiadmk-rout-in-tamil-nadu-222257">DMK President MK Stalin</a> nominated M Shanmugham of DMK and advocate B Wilson for the Rajya Sabha polls in Tamil Nadu to be held on July 18.&nbsp;

The DMK had agreed to give one of its three Rajya Sabha seats to Vaiko, chief of Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK) party, as part of an agreement in the recently held parliamentary election.

&nbsp;Advocate and former Additional Solicitor General of India Wilson is the man who won the Marina land case in Madras High court when the AIADMK-led Tamil Nadu government did not permit late chief minister M Karunanidhi to be buried at the Marina beach.&nbsp;

Shanmugham is the general secretary of the Labour Progressive Federation, the DMK`s labour union wing. Elections to the six Tamil Nadu Rajya Sabha seats is scheduled on July 18. In the 234-member Assembly, AIADMK has 123 members, DMK 100, Congress 7, IUML and Independent one each with two seats vacant.

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) on Monday announced the names of its three nominees for the ensuing Rajya Sabha polls. DMK President MK Stalin nominated M Shanmugham of DMK and advocate B Wilson for the Rajya Sabha polls in Tamil Nadu to be held on July 18.

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) on Monday announced the names of its three nominees for the ensuing Rajya Sabha polls. DMK President MK Stalin nominated M Shanmugham of DMK and advocate B Wilson for the Rajya Sabha polls in Tamil Nadu to be held on July 18. The DMK had agreed to give one of its three Rajya Sabha seats to Vaiko, chief of Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK) party, as part of an agreement in the recently held parliamentary election. Advocate and former Additional Solicitor General of India Wilson is the man who won the Marina land case in Madras High court when the AIADMK-led Tamil Nadu government did not permit late chief minister M Karunanidhi to be buried at the Marina beach. Shanmugham is the general secretary of the Labour Progressive Federation, the DMK`s labour union wing. Elections to the six Tamil Nadu Rajya Sabha seats is scheduled on July 18. In the 234-member Assembly, AIADMK has 123 members, DMK 100, Congress 7, IUML and Independent one each with two seats vacant.

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam announces 3 candidates for Rajya Sabha seats from Tamil Nadu

The Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected a petition filed by the Gujarat Congress against the Election Commission's decision to hold separate byelections to two Rajya Sabha seats in the state.

The two Rajya Sabha seats fell vacant after Amit Shah and Smriti Irani were elected to the Lok Sabha. However, the top court allowed the Gujarat Congress to file an 'election plea' after the conclusion of polls to fill the two Rajya Sabha seats.

An election petition is a procedure to call into question the election results of parliamentary, Assembly or local elections.

The petition was filed by Congress MLA and Leader of Opposition in Gujarat Assembly Pareshbhai Dhanani.&nbsp;The Election Commission had clarified that the vacancies for bypolls to all Houses, including the Rajya Sabha, are considered "separate vacancies" and separate notifications are issued and separate polls are held, though the schedule can be the same. 
 
The Congress has fielded Gaurav Pandya and Chandrika Chudasama for the two Rajya Sabha seats.

(With inputs from PTI)

The Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected a petition filed by the Gujarat Congress against the Election Commission's decision to hold separate byelections to two Rajya Sabha seats in the state.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected a petition filed by the Gujarat Congress against the Election Commission's decision to hold separate byelections to two Rajya Sabha seats in the state. The two Rajya Sabha seats fell vacant after Amit Shah and Smriti Irani were elected to the Lok Sabha. However, the top court allowed the Gujarat Congress to file an 'election plea' after the conclusion of polls to fill the two Rajya Sabha seats. An election petition is a procedure to call into question the election results of parliamentary, Assembly or local elections. The petition was filed by Congress MLA and Leader of Opposition in Gujarat Assembly Pareshbhai Dhanani. The Election Commission had clarified that the vacancies for bypolls to all Houses, including the Rajya Sabha, are considered "separate vacancies" and separate notifications are issued and separate polls are held, though the schedule can be the same. The Congress has fielded Gaurav Pandya and Chandrika Chudasama for the two Rajya Sabha seats. (With inputs from PTI)

Supreme Court rejects Gujarat Congress's plea against EC decision to hold separate Rajya Sabha bypolls

Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel will be Thursday examined as a witness in the Gujarat High Court which is hearing a petition challenging his election to the Rajya Sabha from the state in 2017.

Patel will be cross-examined by the lawyers of BJP leader Balvantsinh Rajput, his rival in the election.

The court had earlier rejected Patel's application seeking more time and ordered him to remain present on June 20.

Rajput filed the election petition after he was defeated in the Rajya Sabha election held on August 8, 2017.

A former Congress MLA who switched over to the BJP, Rajput has accused Patel of bribing MLAs for getting votes.

Further, he has sought to quash the Election Commission's order invalidating the votes cast by two rebel Congress MLAs in his favour.

He has also sought invalidation of votes of two Congress MLAs which were counted and which went to Patel.

The EC's decision to invalidate the votes of then rebel Congress MLAs Bholabhai Gohil and Raghavji Patel helped Ahmed Patel get 44 votes, the minimum he needed to win. Rajput polled 38 votes.&nbsp;

Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel will be Thursday examined as a witness in the Gujarat High Court which is hearing a petition challenging his election to the Rajya Sabha from the state in 2017.

Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel will be Thursday examined as a witness in the Gujarat High Court which is hearing a petition challenging his election to the Rajya Sabha from the state in 2017. Patel will be cross-examined by the lawyers of BJP leader Balvantsinh Rajput, his rival in the election. The court had earlier rejected Patel's application seeking more time and ordered him to remain present on June 20. Rajput filed the election petition after he was defeated in the Rajya Sabha election held on August 8, 2017. A former Congress MLA who switched over to the BJP, Rajput has accused Patel of bribing MLAs for getting votes. Further, he has sought to quash the Election Commission's order invalidating the votes cast by two rebel Congress MLAs in his favour. He has also sought invalidation of votes of two Congress MLAs which were counted and which went to Patel. The EC's decision to invalidate the votes of then rebel Congress MLAs Bholabhai Gohil and Raghavji Patel helped Ahmed Patel get 44 votes, the minimum he needed to win. Rajput polled 38 votes.

Ahmed Patel to be examined in Gujarat high court on election petition

UPA chairperson and former Congress president Sonia Gandhi was Saturday reelected as leader of Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP).

Gandhi was elected as CPP leader at the first meeting of newly elected Congress Lok Sabha MPs began at the Central Hall of Parliament.&nbsp;

Sonia Gandhi is the current chairperson of CPP.

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Smt. Sonia Gandhi elected as the leader of Congress Parliamentary Party! 
 
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All 52 Lok Sabha MPs of the Congress were present at the meeting, besides its members in the Rajya Sabha, sources said.

Besides electing a new leader, the MPs will chalk out the party's strategy for the upcoming session of Parliament, they said.

They will also elect the Congress leader in Lok Sabha.

This will be the first official meeting that Congress president Rahul Gandhi will attend after the May 25 meeting of the party's working committee, where he had offered to quit as Congress chief.&nbsp;

The CWC has already rejected his offer to resign and unanimously passed a resolution authorising him to bring structural changes in the party at all levels in a bid to revamp it.&nbsp;

UPA chairperson and former Congress president Sonia Gandhi was Saturday reelected as leader of Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP). Gandhi was elected as CPP leader at the first meeting of newly elected Congress Lok Sabha MPs began at the Central Hall of Parliament.

UPA chairperson and former Congress president Sonia Gandhi was Saturday reelected as leader of Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP). Gandhi was elected as CPP leader at the first meeting of newly elected Congress Lok Sabha MPs began at the Central Hall of Parliament. Sonia Gandhi is the current chairperson of CPP. Smt. Sonia Gandhi elected as the leader of Congress Parliamentary Party! She says, ‘we thank the 12.13 Cr voters for reposing faith in the Congress Party’. pic.twitter.com/H4z9i3dN8B — Randeep Singh Surjewala (@rssurjewala) June 1, 2019 × All 52 Lok Sabha MPs of the Congress were present at the meeting, besides its members in the Rajya Sabha, sources said. Besides electing a new leader, the MPs will chalk out the party's strategy for the upcoming session of Parliament, they said. They will also elect the Congress leader in Lok Sabha. This will be the first official meeting that Congress president Rahul Gandhi will attend after the May 25 meeting of the party's working committee, where he had offered to quit as Congress chief. The CWC has already rejected his offer to resign and unanimously passed a resolution authorising him to bring structural changes in the party at all levels in a bid to revamp it.

Sonia Gandhi reelected leader of Congress Parliamentary Party

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-moves-election-commission-for-action-against-rahul-gandhi-for-making-baseless-allegations-against-pm-modi-209819">Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)</a> has successfully implemented all its promises made in its 2014 election manifesto, except those that needed constitutional amendments for which the party required a majority in the Rajya Sabha, BJP national vice-president Vinay Sahasrabuddhe claimed Friday.

Unveiling 'This is how BJP Walks the Talk' -- a report card of the ruling party in the social and science and technology sectors prepared by the Public Policy Research Centre (PPRC), Sahasrabuddhe said, "We believe in empowerment and not an entitlement. The focus is now on deliverance."

According to the report, Rs 17 crore loans have been provided under Mudra Scheme, 35 crore bank accounts have been opened under Jan Dhan Yojana and three crore houses have been electrified under Saubhagya scheme.&nbsp;

"Only goal perhaps which BJP has not been able to meet was Article 370, basically those which need constitutional interventions which we cannot do without a majority in the Rajya Sabha. Other than that I think we have robustly managed to achieve all our goals," said the BJP leader who is also a Rajya Sabha MP and Director of PPRC.&nbsp;

He also said that the "Leftist mentality" of having a law for everything needs to change.

"This is why RTE came, Food Security Act came...So this rights-based narrative has played a significant role in our country since the beginning. It is very attractive as well as populist. But on the ground it is different. For example, RTE which was formed after so much discussion had to be improved in merely five years...The informality of education has been almost finished off. Under RTE they are illegal...They made the Act in a hurry, it didn't seem well thought-out," he said.&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has successfully implemented all its promises made in its 2014 election manifesto, except those that needed constitutional amendments for which the party required a majority in the Rajya Sabha, BJP national vice-president Vinay Sahasrabuddhe claimed Friday.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has successfully implemented all its promises made in its 2014 election manifesto, except those that needed constitutional amendments for which the party required a majority in the Rajya Sabha, BJP national vice-president Vinay Sahasrabuddhe claimed Friday. Unveiling 'This is how BJP Walks the Talk' -- a report card of the ruling party in the social and science and technology sectors prepared by the Public Policy Research Centre (PPRC), Sahasrabuddhe said, "We believe in empowerment and not an entitlement. The focus is now on deliverance." According to the report, Rs 17 crore loans have been provided under Mudra Scheme, 35 crore bank accounts have been opened under Jan Dhan Yojana and three crore houses have been electrified under Saubhagya scheme. "Only goal perhaps which BJP has not been able to meet was Article 370, basically those which need constitutional interventions which we cannot do without a majority in the Rajya Sabha. Other than that I think we have robustly managed to achieve all our goals," said the BJP leader who is also a Rajya Sabha MP and Director of PPRC. He also said that the "Leftist mentality" of having a law for everything needs to change. "This is why RTE came, Food Security Act came...So this rights-based narrative has played a significant role in our country since the beginning. It is very attractive as well as populist. But on the ground it is different. For example, RTE which was formed after so much discussion had to be improved in merely five years...The informality of education has been almost finished off. Under RTE they are illegal...They made the Act in a hurry, it didn't seem well thought-out," he said.

BJP successfully implemented almost all its 2014 poll promises: Vinay Sahasrabuddhe

Rajya Sabha proceedings were Wednesday adjourned till 1200 hrs following ruckus by opposition parties led by Congress over the Citizenship Amendment Bill.

Slogan shouting Congress members trooped into the well of the House protesting against the bill that gives citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from neighbouring Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.

They were supported by TMC members who moved into aisle.

Deputy Chairman Harivansh called members to raise matters of public importance during the zero hour but nothing could be heard in the din.

Anand Sharma (Cong) said the entire North-East is on fire as the legislation would effect the security and safety of the region.

He demanded that Home Minister come to the House and make a statement assuring that the Bill, which was passed by the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, will not impact the integrity of the country.

The Bill, he said, is "sending out dangerous message." 
Harivansh repeatedly asked members to return to their places but his pleas went unheeded.

He then adjourned the proceedings till noon.&nbsp;

Rajya Sabha proceedings were Wednesday adjourned till 1200 hrs following ruckus by opposition parties led by Congress over the Citizenship Amendment Bill. Slogan shouting Congress members trooped into the well of the House protesting against the bill that gives citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from neighbouring Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.

Rajya Sabha proceedings were Wednesday adjourned till 1200 hrs following ruckus by opposition parties led by Congress over the Citizenship Amendment Bill. Slogan shouting Congress members trooped into the well of the House protesting against the bill that gives citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from neighbouring Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan. They were supported by TMC members who moved into aisle. Deputy Chairman Harivansh called members to raise matters of public importance during the zero hour but nothing could be heard in the din. Anand Sharma (Cong) said the entire North-East is on fire as the legislation would effect the security and safety of the region. He demanded that Home Minister come to the House and make a statement assuring that the Bill, which was passed by the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, will not impact the integrity of the country. The Bill, he said, is "sending out dangerous message." Harivansh repeatedly asked members to return to their places but his pleas went unheeded. He then adjourned the proceedings till noon.

Rajya Sabha adjourned over Citizenship Bill protests

The Rajya Sabha on Wednesday passed the Constitution (124th Amendment) Bill granting 10 per cent reservation in government jobs and educational institutions to the economically weak&nbsp;among the upper castes.

The Rajya Sabha passed the bill by a vote of 165 ayes versus seven&nbsp;nays.&nbsp;

In the last leg of the legislative process, the bill will now go to the President for approval. After he signs off on it, it will become law.

The bill <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/govts-10-quota-bill-for-poor-passed-in-lok-sabha-189087">was passed by the Lok Sabha on Tuesday</a>&nbsp;with 323 voting for it and only 3 against it.&nbsp;

The bill was approved by the Rajya Sabha Wednesday after the house rejected a motion moved by Kanimozhi (DMK) and supported by Left parties for sending it to a parliamentary select committee for scrutiny. Against 18 members supporting, 155 opposed it and one member abstained.

The bill was approved after the House rejected five amendments moved by Opposition members.

The quota will be over and above the existing 50 per cent reservation to SCs, STs and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).

The Constitution (124th Amendment) Bill, 2019 was introduced in the House by Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Thawar Chand Gehlot on Tuesday, a day after the Cabinet took the politically-significant decision, just a few months ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

A person will be qualified as economically weaker if:

Their annual income is below Rs 8 lakh, 
They own agricultural land less than five acres 
They own homes smaller than 1,000 sq. ft. 
They own residential plots below 109 yards in the notified municipality 
They own residential plot below 209 yards in non-notified municipality area

(With inputs from agencies)

The Rajya Sabha on Wednesday passed the Constitution (124th Amendment) Bill granting 10 per cent reservation in government jobs and educational institutions to the economically weak among the upper castes.

The Rajya Sabha on Wednesday passed the Constitution (124th Amendment) Bill granting 10 per cent reservation in government jobs and educational institutions to the economically weak among the upper castes. The Rajya Sabha passed the bill by a vote of 165 ayes versus seven nays. In the last leg of the legislative process, the bill will now go to the President for approval. After he signs off on it, it will become law. The bill was passed by the Lok Sabha on Tuesday with 323 voting for it and only 3 against it. The bill was approved by the Rajya Sabha Wednesday after the house rejected a motion moved by Kanimozhi (DMK) and supported by Left parties for sending it to a parliamentary select committee for scrutiny. Against 18 members supporting, 155 opposed it and one member abstained. The bill was approved after the House rejected five amendments moved by Opposition members. The quota will be over and above the existing 50 per cent reservation to SCs, STs and Other Backward Classes (OBCs). The Constitution (124th Amendment) Bill, 2019 was introduced in the House by Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Thawar Chand Gehlot on Tuesday, a day after the Cabinet took the politically-significant decision, just a few months ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. A person will be qualified as economically weaker if: Their annual income is below Rs 8 lakh, They own agricultural land less than five acres They own homes smaller than 1,000 sq. ft. They own residential plots below 109 yards in the notified municipality They own residential plot below 209 yards in non-notified municipality area (With inputs from agencies)

10% quota for poor among upper castes: Rajya Sabha passes bill

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hoped that the bill providing 10 per cent reservation for the General category poor in jobs and education is passed in Rajya Sabha. &nbsp;&nbsp;

''I hope the bill providing 10 per cent quota for the General category poor in jobs and education is passed in Rajya Sabha by members respecting the public opinion,'' Modi said. &nbsp;

The Prime Minister was addressing a public rally in Solapur.&nbsp;

Passage of the bill that provides 10 per cent quota for the general category poor in jobs and education a "strong answer" by Parliament to those spreading lies on the move.&nbsp;

Modi also addressed the concerns of the people of the northeast on Citizenship (Amendment) Bill and assured the people of northeast and Assam that their rights will not be compromised.&nbsp;

''Yesterday, the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill was passed in Lok Sabha. I want to assure people from northeast &amp; Assam that their rights will not be compromised with this decision,'' Modis said.

The Prime Minister also launched road and underground sewerage system projects developed at an investment of Rs 1,100 crore here in Solapur.

He also laid the foundation stone for Rs 1811 crore housing project of 30,000 units under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.

Modi also commissioned the four-laned 98.717 km Solapur- Tuljapur-Osmanabad section on NH-211 (New NH-52). The Rs 972.50-crore toll road project will improve connectivity between Solapur and the Marathwada region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hoped that the bill providing 10 per cent reservation for the General category poor in jobs and education is passed in Rajya Sabha.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hoped that the bill providing 10 per cent reservation for the General category poor in jobs and education is passed in Rajya Sabha. ''I hope the bill providing 10 per cent quota for the General category poor in jobs and education is passed in Rajya Sabha by members respecting the public opinion,'' Modi said. The Prime Minister was addressing a public rally in Solapur. Passage of the bill that provides 10 per cent quota for the general category poor in jobs and education a "strong answer" by Parliament to those spreading lies on the move. Modi also addressed the concerns of the people of the northeast on Citizenship (Amendment) Bill and assured the people of northeast and Assam that their rights will not be compromised. ''Yesterday, the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill was passed in Lok Sabha. I want to assure people from northeast & Assam that their rights will not be compromised with this decision,'' Modis said. The Prime Minister also launched road and underground sewerage system projects developed at an investment of Rs 1,100 crore here in Solapur. He also laid the foundation stone for Rs 1811 crore housing project of 30,000 units under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Modi also commissioned the four-laned 98.717 km Solapur- Tuljapur-Osmanabad section on NH-211 (New NH-52). The Rs 972.50-crore toll road project will improve connectivity between Solapur and the Marathwada region.

Hope bill providing 10 per cent quota for poor is passed in Rajya Sabha: PM Modi

Nearly 123 crore <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/aadhaar-not-compulsory-with-bank-accounts-mobiles-cabinet-approves-amendments-184906">Aadhaar cards </a>have been issued to people, Union Minister Hansraj Ahir said in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday.

Replying to a written question, Ahir said as per the 2011 census, the population of India is 121,08,54,977.

The UIDAI has issued a total of 122.90 crore Aadhaar cards as on November 30, 2018, he said, adding that 6.71 crore cards were issued to children below five years of age and 29.02 crore cards were given to people in the age group of 5 to 18 years.

Ahir said the number of children born within the last one year of the 2011 census is 2,08,98,228.

According to the latest data available of the Sample Registration System (SRS), the birth rate for 2016 is 20.4 and death rate is 6.4, he said.

The SRS is carried out on a continuous basis in randomly selected villages and urban blocks throughout the country.

Nearly 123 crore Aadhaar cards have been issued to people, Union Minister Hansraj Ahir said in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. Replying to a written question, Ahir said as per the 2011 census, the population of India is 121,08,54,977.

Nearly 123 crore Aadhaar cards have been issued to people, Union Minister Hansraj Ahir said in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. Replying to a written question, Ahir said as per the 2011 census, the population of India is 121,08,54,977. The UIDAI has issued a total of 122.90 crore Aadhaar cards as on November 30, 2018, he said, adding that 6.71 crore cards were issued to children below five years of age and 29.02 crore cards were given to people in the age group of 5 to 18 years. Ahir said the number of children born within the last one year of the 2011 census is 2,08,98,228. According to the latest data available of the Sample Registration System (SRS), the birth rate for 2016 is 20.4 and death rate is 6.4, he said. The SRS is carried out on a continuous basis in randomly selected villages and urban blocks throughout the country.

123 crore Aadhaar cards issued to people: Government tells Rajya Sabha

A united Opposition on Monday thwarted the government's attempt to push the instant <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/triple-talaq-bill-will-ruin-families-will-launch-agitation-against-it-aimwplb-187352">Triple Talaq Bill </a>in the Rajya Sabha as it insisted on referring it to the select committee of Parliament.

The Bill, which proposes to criminalize the practice of Muslims men giving divorce to their wives by uttering the word "Talaq" thrice in quick succession, was passed by Lok Sabha three days back. It needs to be passed by the Rajya Sabha to become a law.

The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill 2018 was slated to be taken up by the Rajya Sabha this afternoon for consideration and passing.&nbsp;

However, as soon as an effort was made to take this Bill up, an uproar erupted in the house.

TMC leader Derek O Brien said all opposition parties unanimously want the Bill to be sent to a select committee for proper scrutiny.&nbsp;

Echoing similar sentiments, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad, said, "This is such an important bill which can positively or negatively affect the lives of crores of people can`t be passed just like this without going to a select committee."

As the House was not in order, deputy chairman Harivansh adjourned the house for 15 minutes. But when the House reconvened, uproar continued.&nbsp;

Congress leader Anand Sharma said that legislative scrutiny was critical of the Bill before it could be taken up by the house. Minister of State for Parliamentary Affair Vijay Goel attacked the opposition for stalling the Bill, saying they had no sympathy for the Muslim women.&nbsp;

Amid the uproar, Harivansh adjourned the house for the day.

A united Opposition on Monday thwarted the government's attempt to push the instant Triple Talaq Bill in the Rajya Sabha as it insisted on referring it to the select committee of Parliament.

A united Opposition on Monday thwarted the government's attempt to push the instant Triple Talaq Bill in the Rajya Sabha as it insisted on referring it to the select committee of Parliament. The Bill, which proposes to criminalize the practice of Muslims men giving divorce to their wives by uttering the word "Talaq" thrice in quick succession, was passed by Lok Sabha three days back. It needs to be passed by the Rajya Sabha to become a law. The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill 2018 was slated to be taken up by the Rajya Sabha this afternoon for consideration and passing. However, as soon as an effort was made to take this Bill up, an uproar erupted in the house. TMC leader Derek O Brien said all opposition parties unanimously want the Bill to be sent to a select committee for proper scrutiny. Echoing similar sentiments, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad, said, "This is such an important bill which can positively or negatively affect the lives of crores of people can`t be passed just like this without going to a select committee." As the House was not in order, deputy chairman Harivansh adjourned the house for 15 minutes. But when the House reconvened, uproar continued. Congress leader Anand Sharma said that legislative scrutiny was critical of the Bill before it could be taken up by the house. Minister of State for Parliamentary Affair Vijay Goel attacked the opposition for stalling the Bill, saying they had no sympathy for the Muslim women. Amid the uproar, Harivansh adjourned the house for the day.

Rajya Sabha adjourned till January 2, opposition stalls triple talaq bill

Rajya Sabha could not function for fifth consecutive day of Winter Session as the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-deal-issue-rocks-rajya-sabha-house-adjourned-till-monday-184026">House was adjourned after heated exchanges</a> between the BJP and Congress members on Rafale deal while the AIADMK and DMK protested over Cauvery issue.

As the House met Tuesday morning, Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu informed the members that various notices on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/andhra-pradesh-on-alert-as-cyclone-phethai-approaches-several-trains-cancelled-184746">urgent matters</a>, ranging from <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/odisha-evacuates-11600-people-as-cyclone-phethai-makes-landfall-in-andhra-pradesh-184904">cyclones affecting lives</a> in some states to price rise to agriculture crisis, have been admitted for discussion.

Naidu, who had adjourned the proceedings for the entire day on Monday amid uproar over Rafale, Cauvery and other issues, appealed to the members to let the House run its business.

The Chairman said that he was going through a privilege notice given by the Opposition.

However, soon after the papers were laid by the ministers, members from the two major political parties of Tamil Nadu — AIADMK and DMK —trooped into the Well of the House, carrying placards and shouting slogans against the construction of a dam on Cauvery river.

Some members from Andhra Pradesh were also seen displaying placards demanding special status for the state.

Amid sloganeering, Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad said the privilege motion against the government on the Rafale jet deal should be accepted as the matter is agitating the minds of the people.

Azad alleged the government has misled Parliament and the Supreme Court on the issue, triggering vociferous protests from the treasury benches.

The senior Congress leader said the government has no right to continue in office and "should go".

Naidu, however, said that the Chair should be allowed to take a view on the Privilege notice.

The Congress had given the notice demanding an explanation from the government on why it provided the Supreme Court "wrong" information on the purchase of Rafale fighter jet from a French company.

Countering Azad, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Vijay Goel said the government was ready to discuss all issues, including Rafale.

He demanded that the Congress apologise in the wake of the apex court's refusal to order a SIT probe in Rafale deal and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sajjan-kumar-resigns-from-congress-primary-membership-writes-to-rahul-gandhi-184982">Sajjan Kumar's</a> conviction by the Delhi High Court in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case.

As slogan shouting by the AIADMK and DMK members continued in the Well of the House, Naidu adjourned the House till 2 PM.

When the House resumed in the afternoon again, Naidu proposed to discuss calling the attention of the Minister of Home Affairs on the situation arising due to the devastation caused by cyclones Gaja and Titli in some states and the action taken by the government in this regard.

However, senior Congress leader Anand Sharma raised a point of order saying that Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs had referred to Rahul Gandhi and it is against the rule to demand his apology because he is a member of other House.

Soon after, the ruling party member again started raising slogans and demanded an apology from Gandhi while some of the AIADMK and DMK members trooped into the well to protest over Cauvery issue.

Naidu said that there is no point of order in the matter and asked the member to discuss the serious issues mainly related to farmers which are a problem not only in Tamil Naidu but across the country.

Rajya Sabha proceedings have been disrupted since the session started last week on issues like Rafale, the dam on Cauvery river and the demand for special status to Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;

Rajya Sabha could not function for fifth consecutive day of Winter Session as the House was adjourned after heated exchanges between the BJP and Congress members on Rafale deal while the AIADMK and DMK protested over Cauvery issue.

Rajya Sabha could not function for fifth consecutive day of Winter Session as the House was adjourned after heated exchanges between the BJP and Congress members on Rafale deal while the AIADMK and DMK protested over Cauvery issue. As the House met Tuesday morning, Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu informed the members that various notices on urgent matters, ranging from cyclones affecting lives in some states to price rise to agriculture crisis, have been admitted for discussion. Naidu, who had adjourned the proceedings for the entire day on Monday amid uproar over Rafale, Cauvery and other issues, appealed to the members to let the House run its business. The Chairman said that he was going through a privilege notice given by the Opposition. However, soon after the papers were laid by the ministers, members from the two major political parties of Tamil Nadu — AIADMK and DMK —trooped into the Well of the House, carrying placards and shouting slogans against the construction of a dam on Cauvery river. Some members from Andhra Pradesh were also seen displaying placards demanding special status for the state. Amid sloganeering, Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad said the privilege motion against the government on the Rafale jet deal should be accepted as the matter is agitating the minds of the people. Azad alleged the government has misled Parliament and the Supreme Court on the issue, triggering vociferous protests from the treasury benches. The senior Congress leader said the government has no right to continue in office and "should go". Naidu, however, said that the Chair should be allowed to take a view on the Privilege notice. The Congress had given the notice demanding an explanation from the government on why it provided the Supreme Court "wrong" information on the purchase of Rafale fighter jet from a French company. Countering Azad, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Vijay Goel said the government was ready to discuss all issues, including Rafale. He demanded that the Congress apologise in the wake of the apex court's refusal to order a SIT probe in Rafale deal and Sajjan Kumar's conviction by the Delhi High Court in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case. As slogan shouting by the AIADMK and DMK members continued in the Well of the House, Naidu adjourned the House till 2 PM. When the House resumed in the afternoon again, Naidu proposed to discuss calling the attention of the Minister of Home Affairs on the situation arising due to the devastation caused by cyclones Gaja and Titli in some states and the action taken by the government in this regard. However, senior Congress leader Anand Sharma raised a point of order saying that Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs had referred to Rahul Gandhi and it is against the rule to demand his apology because he is a member of other House. Soon after, the ruling party member again started raising slogans and demanded an apology from Gandhi while some of the AIADMK and DMK members trooped into the well to protest over Cauvery issue. Naidu said that there is no point of order in the matter and asked the member to discuss the serious issues mainly related to farmers which are a problem not only in Tamil Naidu but across the country. Rajya Sabha proceedings have been disrupted since the session started last week on issues like Rafale, the dam on Cauvery river and the demand for special status to Andhra Pradesh.

For fifth consecutive day, Rajya Sabha disrupted over Rafale, Cauvery

Parliament proceedings were disrupted for the fourth consecutive day Monday over the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-judgement-govt-moves-sc-seeking-correction-in-para-which-makes-reference-to-cag-report-pac-184280">Rafale jet deal</a> and Cauvery issues, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/potests-over-rafale-cauvery-both-houses-adjourned-for-day-183475">leading to adjournment</a> of Rajya Sabha for the day soon after it met, and Lok Sabha after passing a bill on transgender rights amid adjournments.

In Rajya Sabha, Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu adjourned the House within minutes of assembling as Members of Tamil Nadu parties DMK and AIADMK&nbsp;stormed into the well and Congress and treasury benches raised slogans.

The leader of the Opposition and senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said he has given a notice for taking up of a discussion over the government allegedly misguiding the Supreme Court over the purchase of Rafale jets from France.

He was countered by slogan-shouting from members of treasury benches who demanded an apology from the Congress after the Supreme Court gave a clean chit to the deal.

AIADMK and DMK members were in the well seeking a permanent solution to the Cauvery water dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

The Lok Sabha was adjourned thrice since it met in the morning, before being adjourned for the day.

The treasury and the opposition benches sparred over the Rafale jet deal issue with both sides raising slogans against each other.

While the AIADMK raised issues related to the construction of a dam over the Cauvery river, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) sought special status for Andhra Pradesh.

Congress members raised the issue of government's stand in the Supreme Court over the Rafale deal and accused it of misleading the top court.

BJP members, who were on their feet, raised slogans such as "Rahul Gandhi apologise" to counter the Congress offensive.

Monday was the fifth sitting of the Winter session.

While on Tuesday last, the two Houses were adjourned for the day after obituary references to former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Cabinet Minister Ananth Kumar and other sitting members, little business was transacted in the two Houses on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, which makes the practice of instant triple talaq a penal offence, was introduced in Lok Sabha after it met in the noon on Monday.

It seeks to replace an ordinance issued in September.

Amid slogan shouting, Congress' Shashi Tharoor opposed the introduction of the bill, terming it as unconstitutional.

When the House met again after a second adjournment, The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill was moved for passage.

Amid din, five members participated in the debate questioning the provisions of the legislation.

The 27 amendments moved by the government, along with some others moved by opposition members, were considered amid noisy scenes.

The bill was later passed and the House adjourned for the day. &nbsp;

Parliament proceedings were disrupted for the fourth consecutive day Monday over the Rafale jet deal and Cauvery issues, leading to adjournment of Rajya Sabha for the day soon after it met, and Lok Sabha after passing a bill on transgender rights amid adjournments.

Parliament proceedings were disrupted for the fourth consecutive day Monday over the Rafale jet deal and Cauvery issues, leading to adjournment of Rajya Sabha for the day soon after it met, and Lok Sabha after passing a bill on transgender rights amid adjournments. In Rajya Sabha, Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu adjourned the House within minutes of assembling as Members of Tamil Nadu parties DMK and AIADMK stormed into the well and Congress and treasury benches raised slogans. The leader of the Opposition and senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said he has given a notice for taking up of a discussion over the government allegedly misguiding the Supreme Court over the purchase of Rafale jets from France. He was countered by slogan-shouting from members of treasury benches who demanded an apology from the Congress after the Supreme Court gave a clean chit to the deal. AIADMK and DMK members were in the well seeking a permanent solution to the Cauvery water dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The Lok Sabha was adjourned thrice since it met in the morning, before being adjourned for the day. The treasury and the opposition benches sparred over the Rafale jet deal issue with both sides raising slogans against each other. While the AIADMK raised issues related to the construction of a dam over the Cauvery river, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) sought special status for Andhra Pradesh. Congress members raised the issue of government's stand in the Supreme Court over the Rafale deal and accused it of misleading the top court. BJP members, who were on their feet, raised slogans such as "Rahul Gandhi apologise" to counter the Congress offensive. Monday was the fifth sitting of the Winter session. While on Tuesday last, the two Houses were adjourned for the day after obituary references to former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Cabinet Minister Ananth Kumar and other sitting members, little business was transacted in the two Houses on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, which makes the practice of instant triple talaq a penal offence, was introduced in Lok Sabha after it met in the noon on Monday. It seeks to replace an ordinance issued in September. Amid slogan shouting, Congress' Shashi Tharoor opposed the introduction of the bill, terming it as unconstitutional. When the House met again after a second adjournment, The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill was moved for passage. Amid din, five members participated in the debate questioning the provisions of the legislation. The 27 amendments moved by the government, along with some others moved by opposition members, were considered amid noisy scenes. The bill was later passed and the House adjourned for the day.

Lok Sabha adjourns after passing Transgender bill

Weeks before the Winter Session of Parliament begins, Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha Harivansh Narayan Singh said that balance between the judiciary, legislature and executive needs to be restored.

"Of late, we have seen that judiciary has been taking decisions on the issues of governance which is not correct. The separation of power is hallmark of our Constitution and it must be adhered to," Singh told exclusively to WION.

He said that the decline in relationship between legislature and judiciary started during former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's tenure and has not stopped yet. He said that institutions need to acknowledge each other's turf. He also admitted that one of the reasons for judicial overreach is because legislature itself has failed to address crucial issues of governance and law-making.

"This might be one of the reasons but there has to be national consensus on it and sentiments must be communicated that domain stepping itself is not good for democracy," said Singh.

The Winter Session of Parliament is going to convene from December 11 and Rajya Sabha has been the site of ugly battle between the Opposition parties and the government on number of issues. Singh said that his appeal to the members of the House is to come and debate the issues rather than stall the proceedings.

"Earlier, parliamentary debate were long and deep and members would come well prepared and tried to get into the root of the issue. Senior journalists like BG Varghese would say that coming to Parliament was an education and these are his observations," he said. Singh also said that this is the 150th birth anniversary year of Mahatma Gandhi and discussions should have started on his philosophy, his relevance in today's time.

Singh said that the issue of population which would impact us in near future has not seen a seasoned debate. "India very soon will surpass China's population. What will be our response? Do we have a policy dealing with consequence of world biggest population?" he asked.

He expressed displeasure over the fact that proceedings have continuously been hit because of daily round of controversies but said that lack of confidence between the Opposition and government did not start in 2014. "It started during Indira Gandhi's tenure after the Congress party spilt into two." Singh also said that there are many important issues which must be brought to table for discussion as some of them require national consensus.

When asked whether the issue of judicial overreach requires a national consensus, he said, "Of course it does require a bipartisan consensus but for that conversation in Parliament must take place." Singh also said that greater responsibility lies on the shoulders of the House of Elders. "In Mahabharata, it is said that people generally do what seniors are seen to be doing. We cannot be seen to be doing frivolous things," he said.

BJP and its allies do not command simple majority in Rajya Sabha. The Opposition enjoys numerical heft in the House of Elders hence most of the bills find themselves stalled in the House. It is for this reason that instead of Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha has become the site of contest between the Opposition and the government.

Weeks before the Winter Session of Parliament begins, Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha Harivansh Narayan Singh said that balance between the judiciary, legislature and executive needs to be restored.

Weeks before the Winter Session of Parliament begins, Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha Harivansh Narayan Singh said that balance between the judiciary, legislature and executive needs to be restored. "Of late, we have seen that judiciary has been taking decisions on the issues of governance which is not correct. The separation of power is hallmark of our Constitution and it must be adhered to," Singh told exclusively to WION. He said that the decline in relationship between legislature and judiciary started during former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's tenure and has not stopped yet. He said that institutions need to acknowledge each other's turf. He also admitted that one of the reasons for judicial overreach is because legislature itself has failed to address crucial issues of governance and law-making. "This might be one of the reasons but there has to be national consensus on it and sentiments must be communicated that domain stepping itself is not good for democracy," said Singh. The Winter Session of Parliament is going to convene from December 11 and Rajya Sabha has been the site of ugly battle between the Opposition parties and the government on number of issues. Singh said that his appeal to the members of the House is to come and debate the issues rather than stall the proceedings. "Earlier, parliamentary debate were long and deep and members would come well prepared and tried to get into the root of the issue. Senior journalists like BG Varghese would say that coming to Parliament was an education and these are his observations," he said. Singh also said that this is the 150th birth anniversary year of Mahatma Gandhi and discussions should have started on his philosophy, his relevance in today's time. Singh said that the issue of population which would impact us in near future has not seen a seasoned debate. "India very soon will surpass China's population. What will be our response? Do we have a policy dealing with consequence of world biggest population?" he asked. He expressed displeasure over the fact that proceedings have continuously been hit because of daily round of controversies but said that lack of confidence between the Opposition and government did not start in 2014. "It started during Indira Gandhi's tenure after the Congress party spilt into two." Singh also said that there are many important issues which must be brought to table for discussion as some of them require national consensus. When asked whether the issue of judicial overreach requires a national consensus, he said, "Of course it does require a bipartisan consensus but for that conversation in Parliament must take place." Singh also said that greater responsibility lies on the shoulders of the House of Elders. "In Mahabharata, it is said that people generally do what seniors are seen to be doing. We cannot be seen to be doing frivolous things," he said. BJP and its allies do not command simple majority in Rajya Sabha. The Opposition enjoys numerical heft in the House of Elders hence most of the bills find themselves stalled in the House. It is for this reason that instead of Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha has become the site of contest between the Opposition and the government.

Balance between legislature and judiciary must be restored, says Rajya Deputy Chairman Sabha Harivansh

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