Mr. Jaishankar said that the country had been facing “considerable tension, deep divides and growing polarisation in Bangladesh politics,” since its General elections in January 2024. He continued that this aggravated a student agitation that began in June.

S Jaishankar addresses the Bangladesh crisis in Rajya Sabha

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<p>Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will on Monday (July 22)&nbsp;table the Economic Survey in Parliament- a day before she presents the full budget for the financial year 2024-25. The survey would give insights&nbsp;into the state of the economy and various indicators of the financial year 2023-24 (April 1 to March 31) and would share some outlook for the current year.</p>

<p>All eyes will be on the major announcements made by the finance minister and the government's forward-looking guidance about the overall economy. The Economic Survey is prepared&nbsp;by the Economic Division of the Department of Economic Affairs in the Ministry of Finance and formulated under the supervision of the chief economic adviser (CEA).</p>

<h2><strong>The timing of the survey presentation</strong></h2>

<p>The survey 2023-24&nbsp;will be presented in Lok Sabha at 1 pm and in Rajya Sabha at 2 pm, followed by a press conference by CEA Nageswaran. The first such survey came into existence&nbsp;in 1950-51, when it used to be a part of the budget documents.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2024-date-time-where-to-watch-nirmala-sitharamans-full-budget-speech-live-complete-guide-741609">Union Budget 2024: Date, time, where to watch Nirmala Sitharaman’s full budget speech live | Complete guide</a></strong></p>

<p>In the 1960s, it was separated from the Budget documents and presented the day before the Union Budget.</p>

<p>The most important feature that many will look out for is its central theme.</p>

<p>Last year, the theme was "Recovery complete," when the economy staged a broad-based recovery from pandemic-induced contraction, the Russia-Ukraine war, and inflation, and ascended to the pre-pandemic growth path.</p>

<p>Meanwhile. in 2022, the theme was "Agile Approach", which emphasised India's economic response to the COVID-19 pandemic shock.</p>

<h2><strong>A look at Budget Day</strong></h2>

<p>On Tuesday, Finance Minister Sitharaman&nbsp;will present the budget at 11 am.&nbsp;The budget speech will outline the government's fiscal policies, revenue and expenditure proposals, taxation reforms, and other significant announcements.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India Budget 2024: What are India's youth expecting?</strong></p>

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<p>The budget is then subjected to detailed debate and discussion in both houses of Parliament, allowing members to scrutinise its provisions, raise concerns, and propose amendments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the morning of the budget day, Sitharaman&nbsp;will go to the North Block, where the finance ministry&nbsp;is housed. She will meet the secretaries of her ministry, and later, along with them, she will reach the President's residence to get permission before presenting the budget.</p>

<p>Half an hour before the budget is presented, a Cabinet meeting headed by the Prime Minister is usually held, where ministers are briefed about the budget and Cabinet approval is taken.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will on Monday (July 22) table the Economic Survey in Parliament- a day before she presents the full budget for the financial year 2024-25.

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will on Monday (July 22) table the Economic Survey in Parliament- a day before she presents the full budget for the financial year 2024-25. The survey would give insights into the state of the economy and various indicators of the financial year 2023-24 (April 1 to March 31) and would share some outlook for the current year. All eyes will be on the major announcements made by the finance minister and the government's forward-looking guidance about the overall economy. The Economic Survey is prepared by the Economic Division of the Department of Economic Affairs in the Ministry of Finance and formulated under the supervision of the chief economic adviser (CEA). The timing of the survey presentation The survey 2023-24 will be presented in Lok Sabha at 1 pm and in Rajya Sabha at 2 pm, followed by a press conference by CEA Nageswaran. The first such survey came into existence in 1950-51, when it used to be a part of the budget documents. Also read | Union Budget 2024: Date, time, where to watch Nirmala Sitharaman’s full budget speech live | Complete guide In the 1960s, it was separated from the Budget documents and presented the day before the Union Budget. The most important feature that many will look out for is its central theme. Last year, the theme was "Recovery complete," when the economy staged a broad-based recovery from pandemic-induced contraction, the Russia-Ukraine war, and inflation, and ascended to the pre-pandemic growth path. Meanwhile. in 2022, the theme was "Agile Approach", which emphasised India's economic response to the COVID-19 pandemic shock. A look at Budget Day On Tuesday, Finance Minister Sitharaman will present the budget at 11 am. The budget speech will outline the government's fiscal policies, revenue and expenditure proposals, taxation reforms, and other significant announcements. Also watch | India Budget 2024: What are India's youth expecting? × The budget is then subjected to detailed debate and discussion in both houses of Parliament, allowing members to scrutinise its provisions, raise concerns, and propose amendments. On the morning of the budget day, Sitharaman will go to the North Block, where the finance ministry is housed. She will meet the secretaries of her ministry, and later, along with them, she will reach the President's residence to get permission before presenting the budget. Half an hour before the budget is presented, a Cabinet meeting headed by the Prime Minister is usually held, where ministers are briefed about the budget and Cabinet approval is taken. (With inputs from agencies)

India's Economic Survey to be tabled in Parliament today

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Rajya Sabha MP Sudha Murty for her impactful maiden address in the upper house. Murty, renowned for her philanthropy and literary contributions, addressed crucial issues during her speech, focusing on women's health and promoting domestic tourism.</p>

<p>Murty emphasised the importance of vaccination for girls aged nine to 14, highlighting its role in preventing cervical cancer. "There is a vaccination which is given to girls&nbsp;between the age of nine to 14, known as a cervical vaccination. If the girls take that, it (cancer) can be avoided ... we should promote vaccination for the benefit of our girls because prevention is better than cure,” she said.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/parliament-session-live-pm-modis-constitution-jibe-at-opposition-737367">Parliament Session highlights: Can’t hear the truth, says PM as Oppn stages walkout; Kharge hits back</a></p>

<p>Quoting her father, she said that when a mother dies it is counted as one death in the hospital but for the family, a mother is lost forever. The government has handled a very “big vaccination drive during Covid” so it may not be very difficult to provide cervical vaccination to girls in the age group of 9-14 years, Murty said.</p>

<p>Murty also highlighted the effectiveness and affordability of cervical vaccination, developed in the West and used for the past two decades.</p>

<p>"It worked very well. It is not expensive. Today it is ₹1,400 ($16.76) for people like me who are in the field. If the government intervenes and negotiates...you can bring it to ₹ 700-800 ($8.38 - $9.58). We have such a large population. It will be beneficial for our girls in the future," she said during her 13-minute address.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-woman-kills-herself-after-public-flogging-bjp-demands-mamata-banerjees-resignation-737376">West Bengal woman kills herself after public flogging; BJP demands Mamata Banerjee's resignation</a></p>

<p><br />
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude to Sudha Murty for her comprehensive discussion on women's health. "I want to thank Sudha Murty for speaking in detail about women's health," he said.</p>

<p>PM Modi cited the impact of initiatives such as the provision of sanitary pads and vaccination programmes for pregnant women, emphasising their role in enhancing women's health across the country.</p>

<p>"Our country's women have benefited from the toilets we have made," PM Modi remarked, underscoring the government's commitment to improving women's health and well-being.</p>

<p>Murty also mentioned that 57 domestic tourist sites deserve consideration as World Heritage Sites. These sites include the Bahubali statue at Shravanabela Gola in Karnataka, Lingaraja Temple, Unakoti rock carvings in Tripura, Shivaji forts in Maharashtra, Chausath Yogini temple in Mitawali, Lothal in Gujarat, and Gol Gumbad, among others.</p>

<p>"In India, we have 42 World Heritage sites, but 57 more are pending... we should focus on those 57 sites," Murty said.</p>

<p>In her maiden address, Sudha Murty's advocacy for women's health and promotion of domestic tourism resonated strongly, drawing praise from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for her insightful contribution.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Rajya Sabha MP Sudha Murty for her impactful maiden address in the upper house. Murty, renowned for her philanthropy and literary contributions, addressed crucial issues during her speech, focusing on women's health and promoting domestic tourism.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Rajya Sabha MP Sudha Murty for her impactful maiden address in the upper house. Murty, renowned for her philanthropy and literary contributions, addressed crucial issues during her speech, focusing on women's health and promoting domestic tourism. Murty emphasised the importance of vaccination for girls aged nine to 14, highlighting its role in preventing cervical cancer. "There is a vaccination which is given to girls between the age of nine to 14, known as a cervical vaccination. If the girls take that, it (cancer) can be avoided ... we should promote vaccination for the benefit of our girls because prevention is better than cure,” she said. Also read | Parliament Session highlights: Can’t hear the truth, says PM as Oppn stages walkout; Kharge hits back Quoting her father, she said that when a mother dies it is counted as one death in the hospital but for the family, a mother is lost forever. The government has handled a very “big vaccination drive during Covid” so it may not be very difficult to provide cervical vaccination to girls in the age group of 9-14 years, Murty said. Murty also highlighted the effectiveness and affordability of cervical vaccination, developed in the West and used for the past two decades. "It worked very well. It is not expensive. Today it is ₹1,400 ($16.76) for people like me who are in the field. If the government intervenes and negotiates...you can bring it to ₹ 700-800 ($8.38 - $9.58). We have such a large population. It will be beneficial for our girls in the future," she said during her 13-minute address. Also read | West Bengal woman kills herself after public flogging; BJP demands Mamata Banerjee's resignation Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude to Sudha Murty for her comprehensive discussion on women's health. "I want to thank Sudha Murty for speaking in detail about women's health," he said. PM Modi cited the impact of initiatives such as the provision of sanitary pads and vaccination programmes for pregnant women, emphasising their role in enhancing women's health across the country. "Our country's women have benefited from the toilets we have made," PM Modi remarked, underscoring the government's commitment to improving women's health and well-being. Murty also mentioned that 57 domestic tourist sites deserve consideration as World Heritage Sites. These sites include the Bahubali statue at Shravanabela Gola in Karnataka, Lingaraja Temple, Unakoti rock carvings in Tripura, Shivaji forts in Maharashtra, Chausath Yogini temple in Mitawali, Lothal in Gujarat, and Gol Gumbad, among others. "In India, we have 42 World Heritage sites, but 57 more are pending... we should focus on those 57 sites," Murty said. In her maiden address, Sudha Murty's advocacy for women's health and promotion of domestic tourism resonated strongly, drawing praise from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for her insightful contribution. (With inputs from agencies)

Sudha Murty’s maiden Rajya Sabha speech draws praise from PM Modi

India's former prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh has bid adieu to the Rajya Sabha after 33 long years at the age of 91. Known for his unassuming demeanour and bold reforms we take a look at the journey of a man who was not just a politician, an economist, a thinker and a Visionary but also a Statesman.

End of an Era: Dr Manmohan Singh concludes his political journey, retires from Rajya Sabha

<p>The unfolding political crisis in northern India's Himachal Pradesh state after the Congress party lost the lone seat in upper house of parliament Rajya Sabha to the Bharatiya Janata Party due to cross-voting by its MLAs has laid out the blemished picture for the opposition ahead of general elections.</p>

<p>The Congress, with its Indian National Democratic Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), is seeking to challenge Prime Minister Narendra Modi's claim for a third consecutive term in power in the Lok Sabha elections due this summer.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/india-news/business-economy/himachal-pradesh-how-power-is-slipping-away-from-under-cm-sukhus-nose-1709101158373">How Power is Slipping Away Under CM Sukhu's Nose</a></strong></p>

<p>But after a poor showing in just-held Rajya Sabha polls, the struggle for a 'safe' seat for Rahul Gandhi, the fifth-generation Gandhi dynast&nbsp;—after an ally fielded its candidate from southern India's Wayanad&nbsp;— is emerging as a telling tale of the crises gripping India's oldest political party.</p>

<h2><strong>Himachal Pradesh political crisis</strong></h2>

<p>Himachal Pradesh under Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is the only state in northern India that has a Congress government as of now. After six MLAs cross-voted for the BJP Rajya Sabha candidate Harsh Mahajan, the alarm bells are ringing for the Sukhu government, with former CM and the current leader of opposition in the state assembly demanding a floor test in a stunning challenge Sukhu, who is just in his 14th month in power.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From New Delhi's 24, Akbar Road&nbsp;— the headquarters of the Congress party&nbsp;— the calls have been made and the messages are dispatched.</p>

<p>Senior leaders Bhupendra Singh Hooda and DK Shivakumar have been sent to Shimla as special observers to supervise the party's activities amid the fallout. Sukhu is claiming he still has the majority.</p>

<p>But the government appears to on a sticky wicket, with a&nbsp;confidence motion expected to decide whether the Congress government would be out of the state or remain on the crease for the rest of its tenure.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Rajya Sabha Election results: Implications ahead of General Elections</strong></h2>

<p>Voting took place&nbsp;for 15 seats for Rajya Sabha seats of Himachal Pradesh (1), Uttar Pradesh (10) and Karnataka (4). A total of 41 leaders for 56 seats, including former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi and BJP chief JP Nadda, were elected unopposed in recent days.</p>

<p>The BJP won 10 of 15 Rajya Sabha seats, with one win from Himachal Pradesh emerging as a surprise for many because the party does not have a government in the state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The results came amid news that the former party chief Rahul Gandhi, who contested two Lok Sabha seats in 2019 — the family pocket borough of Amethi and Wayanad in Kerala&nbsp;— is looking for a 'third' safe seat after the Communist Party fielded its candidate from Wayanad.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India: BJP's big win in Rajya Sabha; bags eight seats in Uttar Pradesh, one in HP &amp; Karnataka</strong></p>

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<p>His mother Sonia Gandhi already gave up her Raebareli Lok Sabha seat and chose to enter the parliament through Rajya Sabha.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Congress party continues to remain ambiguous on who will claim the space left by Sonia Gandhi in Raebareli, with daughter Priyanka Gandhi-Vadra failing to confirm if at all she will formally contest the elections later this summer.</p>

<p>As the party looks to challenge Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the peak of his power, questions remain on the ability of India's grand old party to sail through the storm of tumultuous political waters.&nbsp;</p>


The unfolding political crisis in northern India's Himachal Pradesh state after the Congress party lost the lone seat in upper house of parliament Rajya Sabha to the Bharatiya Janata Party due to cross-voting by its MLAs has laid out the blemished picture for the opposition ahead of general elections.

The unfolding political crisis in northern India's Himachal Pradesh state after the Congress party lost the lone seat in upper house of parliament Rajya Sabha to the Bharatiya Janata Party due to cross-voting by its MLAs has laid out the blemished picture for the opposition ahead of general elections. The Congress, with its Indian National Democratic Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), is seeking to challenge Prime Minister Narendra Modi's claim for a third consecutive term in power in the Lok Sabha elections due this summer. Also read | How Power is Slipping Away Under CM Sukhu's Nose But after a poor showing in just-held Rajya Sabha polls, the struggle for a 'safe' seat for Rahul Gandhi, the fifth-generation Gandhi dynast —after an ally fielded its candidate from southern India's Wayanad — is emerging as a telling tale of the crises gripping India's oldest political party. Himachal Pradesh political crisis Himachal Pradesh under Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is the only state in northern India that has a Congress government as of now. After six MLAs cross-voted for the BJP Rajya Sabha candidate Harsh Mahajan, the alarm bells are ringing for the Sukhu government, with former CM and the current leader of opposition in the state assembly demanding a floor test in a stunning challenge Sukhu, who is just in his 14th month in power. From New Delhi's 24, Akbar Road — the headquarters of the Congress party — the calls have been made and the messages are dispatched. Senior leaders Bhupendra Singh Hooda and DK Shivakumar have been sent to Shimla as special observers to supervise the party's activities amid the fallout. Sukhu is claiming he still has the majority. But the government appears to on a sticky wicket, with a confidence motion expected to decide whether the Congress government would be out of the state or remain on the crease for the rest of its tenure. Rajya Sabha Election results: Implications ahead of General Elections Voting took place for 15 seats for Rajya Sabha seats of Himachal Pradesh (1), Uttar Pradesh (10) and Karnataka (4). A total of 41 leaders for 56 seats, including former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi and BJP chief JP Nadda, were elected unopposed in recent days. The BJP won 10 of 15 Rajya Sabha seats, with one win from Himachal Pradesh emerging as a surprise for many because the party does not have a government in the state. The results came amid news that the former party chief Rahul Gandhi, who contested two Lok Sabha seats in 2019 — the family pocket borough of Amethi and Wayanad in Kerala — is looking for a 'third' safe seat after the Communist Party fielded its candidate from Wayanad. Also watch | India: BJP's big win in Rajya Sabha; bags eight seats in Uttar Pradesh, one in HP & Karnataka × His mother Sonia Gandhi already gave up her Raebareli Lok Sabha seat and chose to enter the parliament through Rajya Sabha. The Congress party continues to remain ambiguous on who will claim the space left by Sonia Gandhi in Raebareli, with daughter Priyanka Gandhi-Vadra failing to confirm if at all she will formally contest the elections later this summer. As the party looks to challenge Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the peak of his power, questions remain on the ability of India's grand old party to sail through the storm of tumultuous political waters.

Himachal Pradesh political crisis after Rajya Sabha debacle: What it means for Congress party

<p>The state unit of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday night filed an FIR at the&nbsp;Vidhana Soudha Police Station, in the southern Indian state of Karnataka,&nbsp;alleging that supporters of Rajya Sabha (Upper House) member Syed Naseer Hussain raised pro-Pakistan slogans following his election victory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The BJP alleged in its complaint that soon after the returning officer announced Hussain's win, some of his supporters gathered around and started allegedly shouting "Pakistan Zindabad" (Long live Pakistan) slogans in celebration.</p>

<p>"It was as if these supporters of Naseer Hussain shouted those slogans of Pakistan Zindabad hailing and praising Pakistan on the election of Naseer Hussain to the Rajya Sabha or Upper House in India," read the complaint.</p>

<p>BJP's IT cell chief Amit Malviya posted an unverified video of Congress workers celebrating Hussain's win, alleging that the slogans can be heard being chanted in the clip.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Pakistan Zindabad slogans raised after Congress’s Naseer Hussain, political secretary of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, won Rajya Sabha election from Karnataka. Congress’s obsession with Pakistan is dangerous. It is taking India towards balkanisation. We can’t afford it," Malviya said in a post on X (formerly known as Twitter).</p>

<p><em><strong>(Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the video or the claims made by the parties involved at this stage)</strong></em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Pakistan Zindabad slogans raised after Congress’s Naseer Hussein, political secretary of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, won Rajya Sabha election from Karnataka.<br />
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Congress’s obsession with Pakistan is dangerous. It is taking India towards balkanisation. We can’t afford it. <a href="https://t.co/uh49RignSf">pic.twitter.com/uh49RignSf</a></p>
— Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) <a href="https://twitter.com/amitmalviya/status/1762504973408252284?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Several top BJP leaders, including Union Minister&nbsp;Rajeev Chandrasekhar and former party general secretary CT Ravi, reposted the video with the same claims.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the controversy snowballed, Hussain posted a video on his social media accounts, clarifying that some of his supporters shouted slogans like "Naseer Hussain Zindabad", "Naseer Sahab Zindabad" and "Congress Party Zindabad".&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Clarification on today's incident <a href="https://t.co/cJuiYCU3H1">pic.twitter.com/cJuiYCU3H1</a></p>
— Dr Syed Naseer Hussain,MP Rajya Sabha (@NasirHussainINC) <a href="https://twitter.com/NasirHussainINC/status/1762538104832110686?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"I didn't hear whatever was shown in the media. If I had heard that, I would have objected, condemned the statement, and called for necessary action against them," said Hussain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"However, as far as I am concerned, when I was there, there were no such slogans that were raised, because if the slogans had been raised in our presence then I am sure no sane person or an Indian citizen would have tolerated it. So let us wait for the enquiry and whatever comes forward, we will be there in the public domain. Thank you so much," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-claims-congress-govt-in-himachal-pradesh-loses-majority-amid-reports-of-cross-voting-in-rs-polls-694446"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Congress govt in Himachal Pradesh has lost majority, claims BJP after cross-voting in RS polls</strong></a></p>

<p>Of the four Rajya Sabha seats in the state, Congress bagged three, while BJP took the remaining seat. Apart from Hussain, Congress managed to send&nbsp;Ajay Maken, GC Chandrasekhar to New Delhi while BJP's Narayana K. Bhandage will take a seat in the Upper House, come the next session.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The state unit of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday night filed an FIR at the Vidhana Soudha Police Station, in the southern Indian state of Karnataka, alleging that supporters of Rajya Sabha (Upper House) member Syed Naseer Hussain raised pro-Pakistan slogans following his election victory.

The state unit of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday night filed an FIR at the Vidhana Soudha Police Station, in the southern Indian state of Karnataka, alleging that supporters of Rajya Sabha (Upper House) member Syed Naseer Hussain raised pro-Pakistan slogans following his election victory. The BJP alleged in its complaint that soon after the returning officer announced Hussain's win, some of his supporters gathered around and started allegedly shouting "Pakistan Zindabad" (Long live Pakistan) slogans in celebration. "It was as if these supporters of Naseer Hussain shouted those slogans of Pakistan Zindabad hailing and praising Pakistan on the election of Naseer Hussain to the Rajya Sabha or Upper House in India," read the complaint. BJP's IT cell chief Amit Malviya posted an unverified video of Congress workers celebrating Hussain's win, alleging that the slogans can be heard being chanted in the clip. "Pakistan Zindabad slogans raised after Congress’s Naseer Hussain, political secretary of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, won Rajya Sabha election from Karnataka. Congress’s obsession with Pakistan is dangerous. It is taking India towards balkanisation. We can’t afford it," Malviya said in a post on X (formerly known as Twitter). (Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the video or the claims made by the parties involved at this stage) Pakistan Zindabad slogans raised after Congress’s Naseer Hussein, political secretary of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, won Rajya Sabha election from Karnataka. Congress’s obsession with Pakistan is dangerous. It is taking India towards balkanisation. We can’t afford it. pic.twitter.com/uh49RignSf — Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) February 27, 2024 × Several top BJP leaders, including Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar and former party general secretary CT Ravi, reposted the video with the same claims. As the controversy snowballed, Hussain posted a video on his social media accounts, clarifying that some of his supporters shouted slogans like "Naseer Hussain Zindabad", "Naseer Sahab Zindabad" and "Congress Party Zindabad". Clarification on today's incident pic.twitter.com/cJuiYCU3H1 — Dr Syed Naseer Hussain,MP Rajya Sabha (@NasirHussainINC) February 27, 2024 × "I didn't hear whatever was shown in the media. If I had heard that, I would have objected, condemned the statement, and called for necessary action against them," said Hussain. "However, as far as I am concerned, when I was there, there were no such slogans that were raised, because if the slogans had been raised in our presence then I am sure no sane person or an Indian citizen would have tolerated it. So let us wait for the enquiry and whatever comes forward, we will be there in the public domain. Thank you so much," he added. Also read | Congress govt in Himachal Pradesh has lost majority, claims BJP after cross-voting in RS polls Of the four Rajya Sabha seats in the state, Congress bagged three, while BJP took the remaining seat. Apart from Hussain, Congress managed to send Ajay Maken, GC Chandrasekhar to New Delhi while BJP's Narayana K. Bhandage will take a seat in the Upper House, come the next session. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP alleges Congress MPs raised pro-Pakistan slogans after Rajya Sabha victory

Heavy cross-voting by Congress and other opposition lawmakers dominated the biennial Rajya Sabha elections contest on Tuesday.

Cross-voting dominates Rajya Sabha polls

India's northern state of Himachal Pradesh witnessed fast-paced political developments. So much so that it was anticipated that the government of the Himalayan state may fall. All this came in the backdrop of Tuesday's upper house polls. This report takes through developments of the day.

Cross-voting in Rajya Sabha polls pushes state Govt into crisis

The ruling party in India, Bhartiya Janata Party, has pulled a stunner in the elections of the Upper House, Rajya Sabha, voting for 15 seats in the Council of States.

India: BJP's big win in Rajya Sabha; bags eight seats in Uttar Pradesh, one in HP & Karnataka

Rajya Sabha elections concluded on Tuesday with reports of rampant cross voting. In Karnataka, Congress won 3 out of 4 Rajya Sabha seats, whereas BJP secured one. In Himachal Pradesh, the BJP managed to pull off a victory for its candidate in the lone Rajya Sabha seat despite having only 25 MLAs in the 68-member Assembly. The BJP's victory was the result of cross-voting by Congress MLAs. In U.P too, at least 9 MLAs have been suspected of cross voting. What does it mean for opposition unity ahead of the general elections in the summer?

Rajya Sabha Elections: Shocking cross-voting delivers big blow to Congress ahead of LS polls

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar will be contesting the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. The minister of parliamentary Affairs Prahlad Joshi made this announcement while saying that the seats have not been decided yet. It is being speculated that one of them could contest from Karnataka. Watch to know more!

Nirmala Sitharaman and Dr S Jaishankar to contest Lok Sabha elections

<p><strong>Rajya Sabha Elections 2024</strong>: Voting is currently underway for 15 seats across three states of the upper house of the Indian parliament Rajya Sabha. A total of 41 leaders for 56 seats, including former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi and BJP chief JP Nadda, were elected unopposed in recent days.</p>

<p>The polling is being held for the Rajya Sabha seats from Congress-ruled Himachal Pradesh and Karnataka states, as well as the country's most politically influential Uttar Pradesh state governed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India: PM Modi's reply to motion of thanks in Rajya Sabha</strong></p>

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<p>The BJP holds 28 of the 56 seats and is expected to have at least 29 after the election. In Uttar Pradesh, the opposition's Indian National Democratic Inclusive Alliance ('INDIA') bloc is expected to gain one more seat as the Samajwadi Party is expected to improve its tally from one to two seats.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Cross-voting buzz dominates the Rajya Sabha polls</strong></h2>

<p>For the northern Uttar Pradesh state, the Bharatiya Janata Party has fielded eight candidates and the Opposition Samajwadi Party three for the 10 Rajya Sabha seats that are going to polls. There are eleven candidates for 10 seats, meaning that one of the candidates will not enter parliament's upper house from a current lot of candidates going to polls.</p>

<p>The Bharatiya Janata Party is reportedly banking on members of the legislative assembly from the Rashtriya Lok Dal, a party with a substantial vote share in the western part of Uttar Pradesh state, whose patriarch Charan Singh was recently conferred with Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-takes-sarcastic-jibe-at-mallikarjun-kharge-after-congress-releases-black-paper-688166">Indian PM Modi lauds predecessor Manmohan Singh in Rajya Sabha during farewell of retiring members</a></strong></p>

<p>The BJP leaders claim to have 10 MLAs from Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party, eight of whom did not attend the pre-poll dinner hosted by Yadav a day earlier. The SP has denied these claims.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Rajya Sabha Elections 2024: How SP members are contesting on stocky wickets?</strong></h2>

<p>This is because the Bharatiya Janata Party has fielded Sanjay Seth, a former member of the Samajwadi Party and an industrialist, as one of its eight candidates — with Seth reportedly known to have gained the confidence of some unnamed Samajwadi Party MLAs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the polling began, the Samajwadi Party chief whip in the Uttar Pradesh assembly, Manoj Kumar Pandey stepped down, in a symbolic blow to the party's ambition of pushing for a better performance in Rajya Sabha elections months before the General Elections.</p>

<h2><strong>Rajya Sabha Elections 2024: Battle of prestige in Karnataka, Himachal</strong></h2>

<p>In the southern state of Karnataka, the ruling Congress party shifted its MLAs to a private hotel on Monday (Feb 26) in a bid to prevent undue influence</p>

<p>State party chief and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has denied any possibility of cross-voting by the party MLAs.</p>

<p>In the Congress-ruled Himachal Pradesh, the BJP's Harsh Mahajan is contesting against Congress party's Abhishek Manu Singhvi. The election is being seen as a prestige battle for Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.</p>

<h2><strong>Rajya Sabha's integral role in Indian parliament</strong></h2>

<p>Indian parliament consists of the Lok Sabha or house of the people, the Rajya Sabha or the house of the states, and the president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>All 543 members of Lok Sabha are directly elected by the people during General Elections held every five years. The Prime Minister is the leader of the party or alliance with over 272 seats in Lok Sabha.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The members of the Rajya Sabha — a total of 238 of 250 strength — are elected by the elected members of the state legislative assemblies. The rest of the 12 members, usually the eminent members of society, are nominated by the president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the making of a law, a proposed bill must be passed by the majority of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha followed by assent from the president.</p>

<p>Currently, the Rajya Sabha has a strength of 245. The term for Upper House members is six years, and elections are held every two years for 33 per cent of the seats.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Rajya Sabha Elections 2024: Voting is currently underway for 15 seats across three states of the upper house of the Indian parliament Rajya Sabha. A total of 41 leaders for 56 seats, including former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi and BJP chief JP Nadda, were elected unopposed in recent days.

Rajya Sabha Elections 2024: Voting is currently underway for 15 seats across three states of the upper house of the Indian parliament Rajya Sabha. A total of 41 leaders for 56 seats, including former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi and BJP chief JP Nadda, were elected unopposed in recent days. The polling is being held for the Rajya Sabha seats from Congress-ruled Himachal Pradesh and Karnataka states, as well as the country's most politically influential Uttar Pradesh state governed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party. Also watch | India: PM Modi's reply to motion of thanks in Rajya Sabha × The BJP holds 28 of the 56 seats and is expected to have at least 29 after the election. In Uttar Pradesh, the opposition's Indian National Democratic Inclusive Alliance ('INDIA') bloc is expected to gain one more seat as the Samajwadi Party is expected to improve its tally from one to two seats. Cross-voting buzz dominates the Rajya Sabha polls For the northern Uttar Pradesh state, the Bharatiya Janata Party has fielded eight candidates and the Opposition Samajwadi Party three for the 10 Rajya Sabha seats that are going to polls. There are eleven candidates for 10 seats, meaning that one of the candidates will not enter parliament's upper house from a current lot of candidates going to polls. The Bharatiya Janata Party is reportedly banking on members of the legislative assembly from the Rashtriya Lok Dal, a party with a substantial vote share in the western part of Uttar Pradesh state, whose patriarch Charan Singh was recently conferred with Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour. Also read | Indian PM Modi lauds predecessor Manmohan Singh in Rajya Sabha during farewell of retiring members The BJP leaders claim to have 10 MLAs from Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party, eight of whom did not attend the pre-poll dinner hosted by Yadav a day earlier. The SP has denied these claims. Rajya Sabha Elections 2024: How SP members are contesting on stocky wickets? This is because the Bharatiya Janata Party has fielded Sanjay Seth, a former member of the Samajwadi Party and an industrialist, as one of its eight candidates — with Seth reportedly known to have gained the confidence of some unnamed Samajwadi Party MLAs. As the polling began, the Samajwadi Party chief whip in the Uttar Pradesh assembly, Manoj Kumar Pandey stepped down, in a symbolic blow to the party's ambition of pushing for a better performance in Rajya Sabha elections months before the General Elections. Rajya Sabha Elections 2024: Battle of prestige in Karnataka, Himachal In the southern state of Karnataka, the ruling Congress party shifted its MLAs to a private hotel on Monday (Feb 26) in a bid to prevent undue influence State party chief and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has denied any possibility of cross-voting by the party MLAs. In the Congress-ruled Himachal Pradesh, the BJP's Harsh Mahajan is contesting against Congress party's Abhishek Manu Singhvi. The election is being seen as a prestige battle for Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. Rajya Sabha's integral role in Indian parliament Indian parliament consists of the Lok Sabha or house of the people, the Rajya Sabha or the house of the states, and the president. All 543 members of Lok Sabha are directly elected by the people during General Elections held every five years. The Prime Minister is the leader of the party or alliance with over 272 seats in Lok Sabha. The members of the Rajya Sabha — a total of 238 of 250 strength — are elected by the elected members of the state legislative assemblies. The rest of the 12 members, usually the eminent members of society, are nominated by the president. For the making of a law, a proposed bill must be passed by the majority of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha followed by assent from the president. Currently, the Rajya Sabha has a strength of 245. The term for Upper House members is six years, and elections are held every two years for 33 per cent of the seats. (With inputs from agencies)

Rajya Sabha Elections 2024: Cross-voting buzz dominates as BJP looks to extend its upper house tally

Senior congress leader Anand Sharma, is reportedly upset by the Himachal Pradesh' seat being given to Abhishek Manu Singhvi. The stakes are high for the Rajya Sabha polls which are scheduled on the 27th of February.

Growing resentment in Himachal Congress ranks

One of India's tallest politicians, Sonia Gandhi, who led the congress party for over two decades has bid farewell to the lower house of parliament. Making her intentions clear that she won't contest the party's upcoming election from the Rae Bareily seat. On Wednesday, Sonia Gandhi filed her nomination papers for the Rajya Sabha elections from Rajasthan. She was accompanied by her son Rahul and daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. The polls will be held for three seats from the state on February 27.

Congress leader Sonia Gandhi files nomination for Rajya Sabha polls

Senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi filed nomination for Rajya Sabha seat from Rajasthan. With this Sonia Gandhi bids adieu to her 25 years journey of Lok Sabha.

India: Congress' Sonia Gandhi to contest Rajya Sabha polls from Rajasthan

<p>Sonia Gandhi, former and the longest-serving president of the Indian National Congress, filed her nomination for Rajya Sabha elections at the State Assembly in Jaipur, Rajasthan on Wednesday (Feb 14). She was accompanied by party leaders Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Ashok Gehlot and Govind Singh Dotasra.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per reports, Sonia Gandhi took the decision to move to the Rajya Sabha due to health reasons, which has been making it difficult for her to visit her Lok Sabha constituency regularly.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Jaipur | Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi files her nomination for the Rajya Sabha election, from Rajasthan.<br />
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Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Ashok Gehlot and Govind Singh Dotasra are with her.<br />
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<p>Welcoming Sonia Gandhi's nomination from the Rajya Sabha, former Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot said that the Congress leader has always been connected with Rajasthan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We heartily welcome the announcement of respected Smt. Sonia Gandhi ji as the Rajya Sabha candidate from the Congress Party, who renounced the post of Prime Minister," said Gehlot, in a post shared on X.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-former-maharashtra-cm-ashok-chavan-quits-congress-reports-suggest-may-join-bjp-party-reacts-689510">India: Former Maharashtra CM Ashok Chavan quits Congress, party reacts; reports suggest may join BJP</a></p>

<p>A statement was released by the Congress party in which it nominated Sonia Gandhi from Rajasthan, Akhilesh Prasad Singh from Bihar, Abhishek Manu Singhvi from Himachal Pradesh, and Chandrakant Handore from Maharashtra.</p>

<p>After the Congress leader filed her nomination, State Congress chief Govind Singh Dotasra said, "This decision will give us strength...We will perform very well under the leadership of Mallikarjun Kharge and you...We will make Congress win. Our goal is to ensure that Rahul Gandhi becomes the PM of the country."</p>

<h2><strong>BJP leader takes a jibe on Gandhi's shift, says she must be 'tired'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking about Sonia Gandhi's Rajya Sabha nomination, Union Minister Giriraj Singh took a sharp jibe and said she must be tired.</p>

<p>"She must be tired," the minister said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gandhi, who was nominated to Lok Sabha from Rae Bareli, will not contest the upcoming general elections. In 1999, she was first elected as an MP after she took over as the Congress president.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Another snub to I.N.D.I.A bloc: Why Congress cut short Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra?</strong></p>

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<p>In April, a total of 56 members of the Rajya Sabha, who belong to 15 states, will be retiring and the election for the vacant seats will be held on February 27. The last date for filing nominations for Rajya Sabha is February 15.</p>

<p>Gandhi was the second member of the Gandhi family to get entry into the Rajya Sabha after former prime minister Indira Gandhi, who became a member of the Upper House from August 1964 to February 1967.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Sonia Gandhi, former and the longest-serving president of the Indian National Congress, filed her nomination for Rajya Sabha elections at the State Assembly in Jaipur, Rajasthan on Wednesday (Feb 14).

Sonia Gandhi, former and the longest-serving president of the Indian National Congress, filed her nomination for Rajya Sabha elections at the State Assembly in Jaipur, Rajasthan on Wednesday (Feb 14). She was accompanied by party leaders Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Ashok Gehlot and Govind Singh Dotasra. As per reports, Sonia Gandhi took the decision to move to the Rajya Sabha due to health reasons, which has been making it difficult for her to visit her Lok Sabha constituency regularly. #WATCH | Jaipur | Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi files her nomination for the Rajya Sabha election, from Rajasthan. Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Ashok Gehlot and Govind Singh Dotasra are with her. (Video: Rajasthan Vidhan Sabha PRO) pic.twitter.com/htQ5rSFOvV — ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2024 × Welcoming Sonia Gandhi's nomination from the Rajya Sabha, former Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot said that the Congress leader has always been connected with Rajasthan. "We heartily welcome the announcement of respected Smt. Sonia Gandhi ji as the Rajya Sabha candidate from the Congress Party, who renounced the post of Prime Minister," said Gehlot, in a post shared on X. Also Read: India: Former Maharashtra CM Ashok Chavan quits Congress, party reacts; reports suggest may join BJP A statement was released by the Congress party in which it nominated Sonia Gandhi from Rajasthan, Akhilesh Prasad Singh from Bihar, Abhishek Manu Singhvi from Himachal Pradesh, and Chandrakant Handore from Maharashtra. After the Congress leader filed her nomination, State Congress chief Govind Singh Dotasra said, "This decision will give us strength...We will perform very well under the leadership of Mallikarjun Kharge and you...We will make Congress win. Our goal is to ensure that Rahul Gandhi becomes the PM of the country." BJP leader takes a jibe on Gandhi's shift, says she must be 'tired' Speaking about Sonia Gandhi's Rajya Sabha nomination, Union Minister Giriraj Singh took a sharp jibe and said she must be tired. "She must be tired," the minister said. Gandhi, who was nominated to Lok Sabha from Rae Bareli, will not contest the upcoming general elections. In 1999, she was first elected as an MP after she took over as the Congress president. Watch: Another snub to I.N.D.I.A bloc: Why Congress cut short Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra? In April, a total of 56 members of the Rajya Sabha, who belong to 15 states, will be retiring and the election for the vacant seats will be held on February 27. The last date for filing nominations for Rajya Sabha is February 15. Gandhi was the second member of the Gandhi family to get entry into the Rajya Sabha after former prime minister Indira Gandhi, who became a member of the Upper House from August 1964 to February 1967. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Sonia Gandhi files Rajya Sabha nomination from Rajasthan

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi replied to the motion of thanks to the president's address in the upper house of the Indian Parliament today. Prime Minister made some sharp remarks against the opposition party Indian National Congress. Listen in.

PM Modi accuses Congress of 'trying to break the nation' in Rajya Sabha address

<p>The Rajya Sabha Privileges Committee on Tuesday held 11 suspended opposition MPs guilty of breach of privilege and contempt of the Council of States, but Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar revoked their suspension allowing them to attend the Budget session, sources said.</p>

<p>In its report to the Rajya Sabha chairman a day before the session starts on Wednesday, the committee also recommended that the period of suspension already suffered by the members be treated as “sufficient punishment” for the transgression.</p>

<p>The MPs held “guilty of breach of privilege and contempt of the Council” of States are Jebi Mather Hisham, L Hanumanthaiah, Neeraj Dangi, Rajmani Patel, Kumar Ketkar, G C Chandrashekhar, Binoy Viswam, Sandosh Kumar P, M Mohamed Abdulla, John Brittas and A A Rahim.</p>

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<p>The committee presented the report to Dhankhar, taking note of the situation that the suspended members would not be able to attend the special address of President Droupadi Murmu to both Houses of Parliament, the first address in the new building of Parliament, on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-man-murders-friend-after-being-pressed-for-unnatural-sex-detained-from-patna-685208">India: Man murders friend after being pressed for ‘unnatural sex,’ detained from Patna</a></p>

<p>The committee usually submits its recommendations to the House.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-foreign-minister-s-jaishankar-on-india-maldives-ties-685218">Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar on India-Maldives ties</a></strong></p>

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<p>The sources said the chairman invoked the authority vested in him under the rules of procedure to revoke their suspension enabling the members to attend the special address by the president.</p>

<p>The matter of 11 MPs suspended by the chairman during the Winter session of Parliament were referred to the Privileges Committee.&nbsp;</p>


The Rajya Sabha Privileges Committee on Tuesday held 11 suspended opposition MPs guilty of breach of privilege and contempt of the Council of States, but Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar revoked their suspension allowing them to attend the Budget session, sources said.

The Rajya Sabha Privileges Committee on Tuesday held 11 suspended opposition MPs guilty of breach of privilege and contempt of the Council of States, but Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar revoked their suspension allowing them to attend the Budget session, sources said. In its report to the Rajya Sabha chairman a day before the session starts on Wednesday, the committee also recommended that the period of suspension already suffered by the members be treated as “sufficient punishment” for the transgression. The MPs held “guilty of breach of privilege and contempt of the Council” of States are Jebi Mather Hisham, L Hanumanthaiah, Neeraj Dangi, Rajmani Patel, Kumar Ketkar, G C Chandrashekhar, Binoy Viswam, Sandosh Kumar P, M Mohamed Abdulla, John Brittas and A A Rahim. Also Read | Indian Navy rescues hijacked Sri Lankan vessel, all six crew members safe The committee presented the report to Dhankhar, taking note of the situation that the suspended members would not be able to attend the special address of President Droupadi Murmu to both Houses of Parliament, the first address in the new building of Parliament, on Wednesday. Also Read | India: Man murders friend after being pressed for ‘unnatural sex,’ detained from Patna The committee usually submits its recommendations to the House. Watch | Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar on India-Maldives ties × The sources said the chairman invoked the authority vested in him under the rules of procedure to revoke their suspension enabling the members to attend the special address by the president. The matter of 11 MPs suspended by the chairman during the Winter session of Parliament were referred to the Privileges Committee.

India: Rajya Sabha chairman revokes suspension of 11 opposition MPs guilty of breach of privilege

India's Rajya Sabha to hold elections on February 27th. The upper house polls are being held for 56 seats. How will the dynamics emerge over the next month?

Election date announced for Indian parliament's upper house

<p>The Aam Aadmi Party has appointed its MP Raghav Chadha as the leader of the party in Rajya Sabha in place of Sanjay Singh, sources said.</p>

<p>In a letter to the Rajya Sabha Chairman, the AAP party leadership has said that in the absence of Sanjay Singh, who has "health issues", Raghav Chadha will henceforth be the party's leader in the upper house.</p>

<p>AAP MP Sanjay Singh is currently behind bars in the Delhi liquor policy case.</p>

<p>Sources in the Rajya Sabha secretariat confirmed that a letter has been received from AAP regarding appointing Chadha as its floor leader.</p>

<p>The letter is with the RS Secretary General for implementation.</p>

<p>Chadha is one of the youngest members of Rajya Sabha. The AAP has a total of 10 MPs in the Upper House currently.</p>

<p>AAP has the fourth largest strength in Rajya Sabha after the BJP, the Congress and the TMC.</p>


The Aam Aadmi Party has appointed its MP Raghav Chadha as the leader of the party in Rajya Sabha in place of Sanjay Singh, sources said. In a letter to the Rajya Sabha Chairman, the AAP party leadership has said that in the absence of Sanjay Singh, who has "health issues", Raghav Chadha will henceforth be the party's leader in the upper house.

The Aam Aadmi Party has appointed its MP Raghav Chadha as the leader of the party in Rajya Sabha in place of Sanjay Singh, sources said. In a letter to the Rajya Sabha Chairman, the AAP party leadership has said that in the absence of Sanjay Singh, who has "health issues", Raghav Chadha will henceforth be the party's leader in the upper house. AAP MP Sanjay Singh is currently behind bars in the Delhi liquor policy case. Sources in the Rajya Sabha secretariat confirmed that a letter has been received from AAP regarding appointing Chadha as its floor leader. The letter is with the RS Secretary General for implementation. Chadha is one of the youngest members of Rajya Sabha. The AAP has a total of 10 MPs in the Upper House currently. AAP has the fourth largest strength in Rajya Sabha after the BJP, the Congress and the TMC.

Raghav Chadha appointed AAP leader in Rajya Sabha

The country's women and child development minister smriti irani has told the upper house of the parliament that menstrual leave could lead to discrimination against women in the workforce.

Debate over paid menstrual leave heats up in Rajya Sabha

<p>AAP MP Raghav Chadha thanked the Supreme Court and Rajya Sabha chairman on Monday (Dec 4), after his suspension from the Upper House of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) was discontinued.</p>

<p>In a video message, Chadha thanked people for the love and blessings that he received during the period of suspension.</p>

<p>"I had to approach the Supreme Court to get my suspension discontinued. It was after the Supreme Court's intervention that my suspension was ended. At least for 115 days, I was suspended. During those days, I could not ask your questions inside Parliament and was not able to raise your voice inside the House," he said.</p>

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<p>The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader said he received a lot of love and blessings from people during the period of his suspension.</p>

<p>"I am happy that my suspension was ended. I am thankful to the Supreme Court and Rajya Sabha chairman for this. During the 115 days, I got a lot of love and blessings from people. I got strength from you guys. I am thankful to you from the bottom of my heart," he said.</p>

<p>Chadha was suspended from the Upper House in August for alleged breach of privileges.&nbsp;</p>


AAP MP Raghav Chadha thanked the Supreme Court and Rajya Sabha chairman on Monday (Dec 4), after his suspension from the Upper House of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) was discontinued.

AAP MP Raghav Chadha thanked the Supreme Court and Rajya Sabha chairman on Monday (Dec 4), after his suspension from the Upper House of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) was discontinued. In a video message, Chadha thanked people for the love and blessings that he received during the period of suspension. "I had to approach the Supreme Court to get my suspension discontinued. It was after the Supreme Court's intervention that my suspension was ended. At least for 115 days, I was suspended. During those days, I could not ask your questions inside Parliament and was not able to raise your voice inside the House," he said. Also read | Raghav Chadha wishes 'wifey' Parineeti on her birthday with adorable post: 'You light up my life' The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader said he received a lot of love and blessings from people during the period of his suspension. "I am happy that my suspension was ended. I am thankful to the Supreme Court and Rajya Sabha chairman for this. During the 115 days, I got a lot of love and blessings from people. I got strength from you guys. I am thankful to you from the bottom of my heart," he said. Chadha was suspended from the Upper House in August for alleged breach of privileges.

India: AAP MP Raghav Chadha's parliament suspension revoked. Here's what happened

Union Minister of State (MoS) for Home Affairs Ajay Mishra Teni on Sunday said that the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) will definitely be implemented in the upcoming months adding that the legislative committee of Rajya Sabha has set the deadline to frame rules by March 30 in 2024.

India Minister of State for Home Affairs Ajay Kumar Mishra says, 'CAA rules will be framed in 2024'

Parliament passed the Women's Reservation Bill which reserves 33 percent of seats in the Lok Sabha and state legislative Assemblies for women on September 21, 2023. The bill, which is the first legislation to be cleared by both Houses in the new Parliament building secured 214 votes in its favour with none against it in the Upper House. The bill was passed in the lower house or the Lok Sabha with 454 MPs voting in favour and two against it.

Women's quota bill cleared by parliament

The Union Cabinet on Monday cleared the women's reservation bill in a key meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, announced Union Minister Prahlad Patel.

Rajya Sabha passes women's reservation bill after 11 hours of discussion

<p>Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Raghav Chadha on Friday (August 11) was suspended from Rajya Sabha for "gross violation of rule, misconduct, defiant attitude and contemptuous conduct". A report by the privileges committee is pending.</p>

<p>Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar announced, "I suspend Raghav Chadha from the service of the Council till the Council has the benefit of the report by the Committee of Privileges."&nbsp;</p>

<p>His suspension followed a motion moved by House Leader Piyush Goyal seeking action against the AAP leader for including the names of some Upper House members without their consent in a proposed select committee for the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sonia-gandhi-to-hold-meeting-with-congress-mps-over-suspension-of-adhir-ranjan-from-lok-sabha-624433">Sonia Gandhi to hold meeting with Congress MPs over suspension of Adhir Ranjan from Lok Sabha</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>On Thursday, Chadha slammed the BJP for accusing him of forging the signatures of five MPs in a motion related to the Delhi services bill. He said that the party was trying to "suppress" his voice as he had "exposed" its "double standards".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rajya Sabha chairman on Wednesday referred complaints of four MPs, who accused Chadha of proposing their name for the constitution of a Select Committee without their consent in violation of rules. The rules state that neither a member's consent nor signature is required to propose his or her name for a Select Committee.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a press conference, the AAP leader said that the allegations against him were "baseless" and said an MP can propose the name of any other member without their written consent or signature for a Select Committee.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-body-of-teenager-found-inside-well-in-rajasthan-locals-allege-rape-murder-by-teacher-probe-on-624509">Body of teenager found inside well in Rajasthan, locals allege rape, murder by teacher; probe on</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"I will approach the Committee of Privileges and court of law against the BJP Lok Sabha members who levelled the false allegations of forgery against me," Chadha said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Any member can propose the name of any other member without the written consent of the member or signature," the AAP MP said. He also claimed that a "rumour" is being spread about him doing forgery.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He asked how the question of forgery arise when nobody's signature was taken and submitted. "A rumour which is being spread about forged signatures is absolutely wrong and baseless," Chadha said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I challenge the BJP to show the papers that have the forged signatures as alleged by them. The Parliamentary Bulletin on complaints against me has no mention of forgery, fake signatures," Chadha said and added that the BJP was "trying to suppress his voice".&nbsp;</p>

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<h2><strong>Rajya Sabha adjourned sine die&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>On Friday, Rajya Sabha was adjourned sine die. The day also wrapped the Monsoon session, whihc was marred by disruptions over the Manipur violence issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Upper House was adjourned twice in the pre-lunch session due to an outcry from opposition members who sought a discussion and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's response on the situation in Manipur in the House.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em>&nbsp;</p>

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Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Raghav Chadha on Friday (August 11) was suspended from Rajya Sabha for "gross violation of rule, misconduct, defiant attitude and contemptuous conduct".

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Raghav Chadha on Friday (August 11) was suspended from Rajya Sabha for "gross violation of rule, misconduct, defiant attitude and contemptuous conduct". A report by the privileges committee is pending. Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar announced, "I suspend Raghav Chadha from the service of the Council till the Council has the benefit of the report by the Committee of Privileges." His suspension followed a motion moved by House Leader Piyush Goyal seeking action against the AAP leader for including the names of some Upper House members without their consent in a proposed select committee for the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023. Also read: Sonia Gandhi to hold meeting with Congress MPs over suspension of Adhir Ranjan from Lok Sabha On Thursday, Chadha slammed the BJP for accusing him of forging the signatures of five MPs in a motion related to the Delhi services bill. He said that the party was trying to "suppress" his voice as he had "exposed" its "double standards". Rajya Sabha chairman on Wednesday referred complaints of four MPs, who accused Chadha of proposing their name for the constitution of a Select Committee without their consent in violation of rules. The rules state that neither a member's consent nor signature is required to propose his or her name for a Select Committee. In a press conference, the AAP leader said that the allegations against him were "baseless" and said an MP can propose the name of any other member without their written consent or signature for a Select Committee. Also read: Body of teenager found inside well in Rajasthan, locals allege rape, murder by teacher; probe on "I will approach the Committee of Privileges and court of law against the BJP Lok Sabha members who levelled the false allegations of forgery against me," Chadha said. "Any member can propose the name of any other member without the written consent of the member or signature," the AAP MP said. He also claimed that a "rumour" is being spread about him doing forgery. He asked how the question of forgery arise when nobody's signature was taken and submitted. "A rumour which is being spread about forged signatures is absolutely wrong and baseless," Chadha said. "I challenge the BJP to show the papers that have the forged signatures as alleged by them. The Parliamentary Bulletin on complaints against me has no mention of forgery, fake signatures," Chadha said and added that the BJP was "trying to suppress his voice". #WATCH | Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar announces, "...I suspend Raghav Chadha from the service of the Council till the Council has the benefit of the report by the Committee of Privileges." pic.twitter.com/OXMGitpdMQ — ANI (@ANI) August 11, 2023 × Rajya Sabha adjourned sine die On Friday, Rajya Sabha was adjourned sine die. The day also wrapped the Monsoon session, whihc was marred by disruptions over the Manipur violence issue. The Upper House was adjourned twice in the pre-lunch session due to an outcry from opposition members who sought a discussion and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's response on the situation in Manipur in the House. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Aam Aadmi Party MP Raghav Chadha suspended from Rajya Sabha on signature forgery allegations

A big day in both the Lower and Upper House of the Indian Parliament. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi has been reinstated as as a Member of Parliament in the Lok Sabha, reacting to the news Ashok Gehlot, Rajasthan Chief Minister, said that Gandhi has been targeted.

India: Delhi Services Bill tabled in Rajya Sabha; No-confidence motion looms over Lok Sabha | WION

<p>India’s major opposition parties on Wednesday (August 2) demanded the speaker of the lower house of the Indian Parliament (Lok Sabha) reschedule the no-confidence debate to an earlier date.</p>

<p>Members of the so-called INDIA alliance wrote a letter to Speaker Om Birla to make it clear that they were not happy with the discussions to be held on the last three days of the ongoing monsoon session.</p>

<p>Outlook India quoted a senior INDIA alliance member as saying, “We told the Speaker that the government is using this opportunity to pass a number of bills and we want to participate in the discussion. If the no-confidence discussion takes place at the earliest, then we can participate in the discussion on the legislative agenda.”</p>

<h2><strong>No-confidence motion vs censure motion</strong></h2>

<p>According to media reports, opposition parties are considering moving either a no-confidence or censure motion in the upper house of the parliament or Rajya Sabha.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While a no-confidence is moved against the government or the Council of Ministers, a censure motion is regarded as a strong reprimand by the legislature and can be moved against both individuals and the Council of Ministers. Censure motion is also used to condemn certain policies or legislations introduced by the government.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Indian Opposition Parties move on no-confidence motion</strong></p>

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<p>It must be noted that while a no-confidence motion can only be tabled in the Lok Sabha, a Censure motion can be moved in both houses of the parliament, giving opportunity for the opposition to take the debate to the Rajya Sabha, where India’s ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) lacks an absolute majority.</p>

<h2><strong>Opposition parties to stage a walkout from Lok Sabha</strong></h2>

<p>INDIA alliance members are also planning to stage a walkout from the Lok Sabha during Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s reply to the debate on Delhi Services Bill.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-can-modi-government-fall-understanding-no-confidence-motion-in-indian-politics-619634"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;EXPLAINED | Can Modi government fall? Understanding no-confidence motion in Indian politics</strong></a></p>

<p>“We might not get involved in the voting or division on the Delhi Services bill in the Lok Sabha. In the Rajya Sabha, we will definitely seek a division,” a senior opposition leader said.</p>

<p>“In the Lok Sabha, the numbers are heavily tilted towards the ruling dispensation. We can give a tougher fight in the Rajya Sabha,” added another opposition leader.&nbsp;</p>

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India’s major opposition parties on Wednesday (August 2) demanded the speaker of the lower house of the Indian Parliament (Lok Sabha) reschedule the no-confidence debate to an earlier date.

India’s major opposition parties on Wednesday (August 2) demanded the speaker of the lower house of the Indian Parliament (Lok Sabha) reschedule the no-confidence debate to an earlier date. Members of the so-called INDIA alliance wrote a letter to Speaker Om Birla to make it clear that they were not happy with the discussions to be held on the last three days of the ongoing monsoon session. Outlook India quoted a senior INDIA alliance member as saying, “We told the Speaker that the government is using this opportunity to pass a number of bills and we want to participate in the discussion. If the no-confidence discussion takes place at the earliest, then we can participate in the discussion on the legislative agenda.” No-confidence motion vs censure motion According to media reports, opposition parties are considering moving either a no-confidence or censure motion in the upper house of the parliament or Rajya Sabha. While a no-confidence is moved against the government or the Council of Ministers, a censure motion is regarded as a strong reprimand by the legislature and can be moved against both individuals and the Council of Ministers. Censure motion is also used to condemn certain policies or legislations introduced by the government. Watch: Indian Opposition Parties move on no-confidence motion × It must be noted that while a no-confidence motion can only be tabled in the Lok Sabha, a Censure motion can be moved in both houses of the parliament, giving opportunity for the opposition to take the debate to the Rajya Sabha, where India’s ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) lacks an absolute majority. Opposition parties to stage a walkout from Lok Sabha INDIA alliance members are also planning to stage a walkout from the Lok Sabha during Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s reply to the debate on Delhi Services Bill. Also read: EXPLAINED | Can Modi government fall? Understanding no-confidence motion in Indian politics “We might not get involved in the voting or division on the Delhi Services bill in the Lok Sabha. In the Rajya Sabha, we will definitely seek a division,” a senior opposition leader said. “In the Lok Sabha, the numbers are heavily tilted towards the ruling dispensation. We can give a tougher fight in the Rajya Sabha,” added another opposition leader. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India: Opposition parties demand early scheduling of no-confidence debate

<p>Rajya Sabha proceedings were adjourned for the fourth time on Monday till 3.30 pm as the opposition kept insisting on a discussion on the Manipur issue under Rule 267 of the House, even after the government agreed to a short-duration discussion and the chairman announced its initiation.</p>

<p>As the House reassembled at 2 pm after two adjournments in the pre-lunch period, Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar said the government has agreed to a short-duration discussion on the situation in strife-torn Manipur under Rule 176 and called the name of Birendra Prasad Baishya (BJP) to initiate it.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bhutans-roaring-success-in-tiger-conservation-grows-spotlight-with-latest-numbers-620999">Bhutan's roaring success in Tiger conservation grows spotlight with latest numbers</a></p>

<p>Amid an uproar in the Upper House of Parliament, the chairman announced that the leader of the House and opposition leaders should meet him at his chamber at 2:45 pm to resolve the issue.</p>

<p>Later, he held a meeting with the leader of the House, opposition leaders, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi and Minister of State V Muraleedharan.</p>

<p>Dhankhar adjourned the House for the fourth time during the day till 3:30 pm amid the continued din created by the opposition leaders.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/song-about-going-to-prison-plays-as-trump-takes-to-stage-in-rally-620990">Song about 'going to prison' plays as Trump takes to stage in rally</a></p>

<p>"The government is extremely keen (for a discussion on the Manipur issue)," the chairman said earlier amid the uproar.<br />
In the morning, Leader of the House Piyush Goyal told the Rajya Sabha that the government was ready for a discussion on Manipur and urged the Chair to begin it from 2 pm itself.</p>

<p>The chairman told the House that he has rejected all notices received under Rule 267 from the opposition members as he has already agreed to a short-duration discussion under Rule 176.</p>

<p>When the opposition members insisted on a discussion under Rule 267, Dhankhar said, "Notices under Rule 267 have not been admitted by me. They have been declined by me."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | UK: Health agency report shows slight increase in hospital admission</strong></p>

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<p>As the uproar continued, the chairman first adjourned the House till 2.30 pm and then again till 3.30 pm.</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, when the chair asked the opposition if it was agreeable to a discussion, Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge insisted that it should only be under Rule 267.</p>

<p>"We have demanded a discussion under Rule 267. Our members have visited Manipur. Manipur is burning.... We want (a discussion) under Rule 267....," the Congress leader said.</p>

<p>As the shouting continued, the chair adjourned the House till noon.</p>

<p>When the House reassembled, Dhankhar allowed Kharge to speak, but the ruling party members were on their feet and did not allow him to speak.</p>

<p>"Though it is the Question Hour, as an extraordinary case, I am allowing the leader of opposition (to speak)," the chairman said.</p>

<p>With Kharge on his feet, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) members created an uproar and did not allow him to speak, forcing the chair to adjourn the house till 2 pm.</p>

<p>Rule 267 of the Rajya Sabha rulebook allows for the suspension of the day's business to debate on any issue suggested by a member.</p>

<p>The Rajya Sabha proceedings have continuously been disrupted since the House met for the Monsoon session on July 20. The opposition members have been creating an uproar, demanding a statement from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, followed by a comprehensive discussion on the ethnic violence in Manipur.</p>

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Rajya Sabha proceedings were adjourned for the fourth time on Monday till 3.30 pm as the opposition kept insisting on a discussion on the Manipur issue under Rule 267 of the House, even after the government agreed to a short-duration discussion and the chairman announced its initiation.

Rajya Sabha proceedings were adjourned for the fourth time on Monday till 3.30 pm as the opposition kept insisting on a discussion on the Manipur issue under Rule 267 of the House, even after the government agreed to a short-duration discussion and the chairman announced its initiation. As the House reassembled at 2 pm after two adjournments in the pre-lunch period, Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar said the government has agreed to a short-duration discussion on the situation in strife-torn Manipur under Rule 176 and called the name of Birendra Prasad Baishya (BJP) to initiate it. Also Read | Bhutan's roaring success in Tiger conservation grows spotlight with latest numbers Amid an uproar in the Upper House of Parliament, the chairman announced that the leader of the House and opposition leaders should meet him at his chamber at 2:45 pm to resolve the issue. Later, he held a meeting with the leader of the House, opposition leaders, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi and Minister of State V Muraleedharan. Dhankhar adjourned the House for the fourth time during the day till 3:30 pm amid the continued din created by the opposition leaders. Also Read | Song about 'going to prison' plays as Trump takes to stage in rally "The government is extremely keen (for a discussion on the Manipur issue)," the chairman said earlier amid the uproar. In the morning, Leader of the House Piyush Goyal told the Rajya Sabha that the government was ready for a discussion on Manipur and urged the Chair to begin it from 2 pm itself. The chairman told the House that he has rejected all notices received under Rule 267 from the opposition members as he has already agreed to a short-duration discussion under Rule 176. When the opposition members insisted on a discussion under Rule 267, Dhankhar said, "Notices under Rule 267 have not been admitted by me. They have been declined by me." Watch | UK: Health agency report shows slight increase in hospital admission × As the uproar continued, the chairman first adjourned the House till 2.30 pm and then again till 3.30 pm. Earlier in the day, when the chair asked the opposition if it was agreeable to a discussion, Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge insisted that it should only be under Rule 267. "We have demanded a discussion under Rule 267. Our members have visited Manipur. Manipur is burning.... We want (a discussion) under Rule 267....," the Congress leader said. As the shouting continued, the chair adjourned the House till noon. When the House reassembled, Dhankhar allowed Kharge to speak, but the ruling party members were on their feet and did not allow him to speak. "Though it is the Question Hour, as an extraordinary case, I am allowing the leader of opposition (to speak)," the chairman said. With Kharge on his feet, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) members created an uproar and did not allow him to speak, forcing the chair to adjourn the house till 2 pm. Rule 267 of the Rajya Sabha rulebook allows for the suspension of the day's business to debate on any issue suggested by a member. The Rajya Sabha proceedings have continuously been disrupted since the House met for the Monsoon session on July 20. The opposition members have been creating an uproar, demanding a statement from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, followed by a comprehensive discussion on the ethnic violence in Manipur. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Rajya Sabha adjourned after uproar over Manipur issue

<p>Both houses of the Indian parliament were adjourned on Monday after the opposition lodged strong protests over the expulsion of Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi. Speaker Om Birla, presiding over the lower house Lok Sabha said he wanted to run the House with dignity and adjourned the proceedings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before the commencement of the morning session, opposition MPs&nbsp;participated in a meeting held in the chamber of Leader of Opposition Rajya Sabha and Congres chief&nbsp;Mallikarjun Kharge.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I thank everyone who supported this. That is why, I thanked everyone yesterday and I thank them today as well. We welcome anyone who comes forward to protect democracy and Constitution and safeguard the people. We extend heartfelt gratitude to the people who support us," Kharge told reporters after the meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week, a city court in Surat&nbsp;convicted Rahul Gandhi&nbsp;in a criminal defamation case filed against him for his alleged 'Modi surname' remarks.&nbsp;The court sentenced Gandhi to two years in jail while imposing a fine of Rs 15,000 ($183), under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 499 (defamation), 500 (punishment for defamation).</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rahul-gandhi-will-continue-to-raise-questions-over-tycoon-adani-575706"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi: Will continue to raise questions over tycoon Adani</strong></a></p>

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<p>Gandhi&nbsp;made the alleged remarks while addressing a rally at Kolar in Karnataka ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.</p>

<p>“Why all the thieves, be it Nirav Modi, Lalit Modi or Narendra Modi, have Modi in their names,” remarked the Congress leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After an appeal, his sentence was suspended and bail granted to move an appeal against the conviction in under 30 days. However, the very next day, the&nbsp;Indian parliament disqualified the Indian MP from Wayanad - a district in the southern Indian state of Kerala.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rahul-gandhi-convicted-in-2019-modi-surname-defamation-case-gets-two-year-jail-term-574899"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;India: Rahul Gandhi convicted in 2019 'Modi surname' defamation case, gets two-year jail term</strong></a></p>

<p>"Consequent upon his conviction by the Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Surat in C.C./18712/2019, Shri Rahul Gandhi, Member of the Lok Sabha constituency representing the Wayanad Parliamentary Constituency of Kerala stands disqualified from the membership of Lok Sabha from the date of his conviction, i.e. March 23, 2023," read the statement released by&nbsp;Lok Sabha Secretariat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following his disqualification, Gandhi is not eligible able to contest elections for eight years unless a higher court stays his conviction and sentence.</p>

<p>Notably, the Wayanad MP is the scion of India's most famous political family -&nbsp;the Gandhi family. Despite coming from a privileged background, Gandhi has not been able to compete against the popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his BJP government. His disqualification ahead of the crucial 2024 general elections may hurt INC's chances of staging a comeback.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Both houses of the Indian parliament were adjourned on Monday after the opposition lodged strong protests over the expulsion of Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi.

Both houses of the Indian parliament were adjourned on Monday after the opposition lodged strong protests over the expulsion of Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi. Speaker Om Birla, presiding over the lower house Lok Sabha said he wanted to run the House with dignity and adjourned the proceedings. Before the commencement of the morning session, opposition MPs participated in a meeting held in the chamber of Leader of Opposition Rajya Sabha and Congres chief Mallikarjun Kharge. "I thank everyone who supported this. That is why, I thanked everyone yesterday and I thank them today as well. We welcome anyone who comes forward to protect democracy and Constitution and safeguard the people. We extend heartfelt gratitude to the people who support us," Kharge told reporters after the meeting. Last week, a city court in Surat convicted Rahul Gandhi in a criminal defamation case filed against him for his alleged 'Modi surname' remarks. The court sentenced Gandhi to two years in jail while imposing a fine of Rs 15,000 ($183), under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 499 (defamation), 500 (punishment for defamation). WATCH | Rahul Gandhi: Will continue to raise questions over tycoon Adani × Gandhi made the alleged remarks while addressing a rally at Kolar in Karnataka ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. “Why all the thieves, be it Nirav Modi, Lalit Modi or Narendra Modi, have Modi in their names,” remarked the Congress leader. After an appeal, his sentence was suspended and bail granted to move an appeal against the conviction in under 30 days. However, the very next day, the Indian parliament disqualified the Indian MP from Wayanad - a district in the southern Indian state of Kerala. ALSO READ | India: Rahul Gandhi convicted in 2019 'Modi surname' defamation case, gets two-year jail term "Consequent upon his conviction by the Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Surat in C.C./18712/2019, Shri Rahul Gandhi, Member of the Lok Sabha constituency representing the Wayanad Parliamentary Constituency of Kerala stands disqualified from the membership of Lok Sabha from the date of his conviction, i.e. March 23, 2023," read the statement released by Lok Sabha Secretariat. Following his disqualification, Gandhi is not eligible able to contest elections for eight years unless a higher court stays his conviction and sentence. Notably, the Wayanad MP is the scion of India's most famous political family - the Gandhi family. Despite coming from a privileged background, Gandhi has not been able to compete against the popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his BJP government. His disqualification ahead of the crucial 2024 general elections may hurt INC's chances of staging a comeback. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Indian parliament adjourned after raucous protests by opposition over Rahul Gandhi's expulsion

<p>India's Parliament was told on Thursday (February 9) that more than 1.6 million Indians have renounced their Indian citizenship since 2011, including 225,620 last year, which was the highest during the period, while the lowest of 85,256 was in 2020. The year-wise number of Indians who renounced their citizenship was provided by the country's foreign minister S Jaishankar in response to a question in the Rajya Sabha.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As per the information available with the ministry (external affairs ministry), the number of Indians who renounced their Indian citizenship was 1,31,489 (in 2015); 1,41,603 (in 2016); 1,33,049 (in 2017); 1,34,561 (in 2018); 1,44,017 (in 2019); 85,256 (in 2020); 1,63,370 (in 2021) and 2,25,620 (in 2022). For reference purposes, data was 1,22,819 (in 2011); 1,20,923 (in 2012); 1,31,405 (in 2013); 1,29,328 (in 2014)," Jaishankar said, news agency IANS reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To a specific query, Jaishankar said that five Indian nationals obtained citizenship of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) during the last three years. The foreign minister also provided a list of 135 countries whose citizenship Indians acquired, a report by news agency PTI said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, in response to a separate question, Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said on Thursday that the Narendra Modi led-central government was aware of professionals having been laid off by US companies in recent months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Of these, a certain percentage is likely to be Indian nationals on H-1B and L1 visas. The Government of India has consistently raised issues relating to the movement of high skilled workers, including IT professionals, with the US government," Muraleedharan told the Rajya Sabha. The minister added that the government had been working with various stakeholders, including industry organisations and business chambers on the above issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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India's Parliament was told on Thursday (February 9) that more than 1.6 million Indians have renounced their Indian citizenship since 2011, including 225,620 last year, which was the highest during the period, while the lowest of 85,256 was in 2020.

India's Parliament was told on Thursday (February 9) that more than 1.6 million Indians have renounced their Indian citizenship since 2011, including 225,620 last year, which was the highest during the period, while the lowest of 85,256 was in 2020. The year-wise number of Indians who renounced their citizenship was provided by the country's foreign minister S Jaishankar in response to a question in the Rajya Sabha. "As per the information available with the ministry (external affairs ministry), the number of Indians who renounced their Indian citizenship was 1,31,489 (in 2015); 1,41,603 (in 2016); 1,33,049 (in 2017); 1,34,561 (in 2018); 1,44,017 (in 2019); 85,256 (in 2020); 1,63,370 (in 2021) and 2,25,620 (in 2022). For reference purposes, data was 1,22,819 (in 2011); 1,20,923 (in 2012); 1,31,405 (in 2013); 1,29,328 (in 2014)," Jaishankar said, news agency IANS reported. To a specific query, Jaishankar said that five Indian nationals obtained citizenship of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) during the last three years. The foreign minister also provided a list of 135 countries whose citizenship Indians acquired, a report by news agency PTI said. Meanwhile, in response to a separate question, Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said on Thursday that the Narendra Modi led-central government was aware of professionals having been laid off by US companies in recent months. "Of these, a certain percentage is likely to be Indian nationals on H-1B and L1 visas. The Government of India has consistently raised issues relating to the movement of high skilled workers, including IT professionals, with the US government," Muraleedharan told the Rajya Sabha. The minister added that the government had been working with various stakeholders, including industry organisations and business chambers on the above issues. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Govt data shows 225,000 people renounced Indian citizenship in 2022

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