The Rajya Sabha has 245 MPs, of which 241 are elected and four are nominated. At present, the BJP and its allies have 102 members in the Rajya Sabha20 seats short of a simple majority. How will the BJP get these additional 20 seats?

IEW: BJP eyes majority in Rajya Sabha

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah will file his nomination papers from Gandhinagar constituency on March 30.

Shah, who is a Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament (MP), will contest the Lok Sabha elections for the first time. He has been fielded from Gandhinagar constituency, which is currently held by BJP veteran LK Advani.

"He will file the nomination at 12:30 pm on Saturday in the presence of Home Minister Rajnath Singh, former Chief Minister of Punjab Parkash Singh Badal, Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, Lok Janshakti Party president Ram Vilas Paswan and BJP`s national general secretary Ram Lal," said Mahendra Panday, BJP secretary, in a press release.

Before filing the nomination, Shah will address a huge election rally in Naranpura area of Ahmedabad, followed by a roadshow which will start from DRH Regency hotel and culminate at Patidar Chowk in Ghatlodia area.

Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Raut told ANI, "Amit Shah called up Uddhav Thackeray and extended a special invitation, requesting our party chief to accompany him to file nomination in Gandhinagar. He has accepted the nomination."&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah will file his nomination papers from Gandhinagar constituency on March 30. Shah, who is a Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament (MP), will contest the Lok Sabha elections for the first time.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah will file his nomination papers from Gandhinagar constituency on March 30. Shah, who is a Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament (MP), will contest the Lok Sabha elections for the first time. He has been fielded from Gandhinagar constituency, which is currently held by BJP veteran LK Advani. "He will file the nomination at 12:30 pm on Saturday in the presence of Home Minister Rajnath Singh, former Chief Minister of Punjab Parkash Singh Badal, Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, Lok Janshakti Party president Ram Vilas Paswan and BJP`s national general secretary Ram Lal," said Mahendra Panday, BJP secretary, in a press release. Before filing the nomination, Shah will address a huge election rally in Naranpura area of Ahmedabad, followed by a roadshow which will start from DRH Regency hotel and culminate at Patidar Chowk in Ghatlodia area. Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Raut told ANI, "Amit Shah called up Uddhav Thackeray and extended a special invitation, requesting our party chief to accompany him to file nomination in Gandhinagar. He has accepted the nomination."

Amit Shah to file his nomination from Gandhinagar on Saturday

The ruling AIADMK Tuesday announced a poll alliance with the Pattali Makkal Katchi and allotted seven Lok Sabha seats to it for the forthcoming Parliamentary elections.

Announcing the deal in the presence of Chief Minister K Palaniswami, AIADMK coordinator and Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam said it has also been decided that the PMK will be allocated a Rajya Sabha seat.

Under the deal, The PMK will be supporting the AIADMK in the bypolls expected to 21 Assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu, he said.

A formal agreement in this regard was signed between the leadership of&nbsp; 
the two parties in a city hotel.

PMK founder leader S Ramadoss described the coalition as "an alliance for people's welfare, a mega-coalition and a victorious alliance."

"To retrieve the rights of Tamil Nadu people, we have made a 10-point charter of demands," Ramadoss said.

The demands include declaring the Cauvery delta districts as a protected farm region, a caste-wise census be held in Tamil Nadu and seven Rajiv case convicts be set free.

"This coalition will be successful in all the 40 constituencies in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry," he said.

The rationale for aligning with the AIADMK will be explained by his son and former Union Health Minister Dr Anbumani Ramadoss later, he said.&nbsp;

The ruling AIADMK Tuesday announced a poll alliance with the Pattali Makkal Katchi and allotted seven Lok Sabha seats to it for the forthcoming Parliamentary elections.

The ruling AIADMK Tuesday announced a poll alliance with the Pattali Makkal Katchi and allotted seven Lok Sabha seats to it for the forthcoming Parliamentary elections. Announcing the deal in the presence of Chief Minister K Palaniswami, AIADMK coordinator and Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam said it has also been decided that the PMK will be allocated a Rajya Sabha seat. Under the deal, The PMK will be supporting the AIADMK in the bypolls expected to 21 Assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu, he said. A formal agreement in this regard was signed between the leadership of the two parties in a city hotel. PMK founder leader S Ramadoss described the coalition as "an alliance for people's welfare, a mega-coalition and a victorious alliance." "To retrieve the rights of Tamil Nadu people, we have made a 10-point charter of demands," Ramadoss said. The demands include declaring the Cauvery delta districts as a protected farm region, a caste-wise census be held in Tamil Nadu and seven Rajiv case convicts be set free. "This coalition will be successful in all the 40 constituencies in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry," he said. The rationale for aligning with the AIADMK will be explained by his son and former Union Health Minister Dr Anbumani Ramadoss later, he said.

AIADMK announces poll alliance deal with PMK ahead of Lok Sabha elections

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaitley-criticises-cong-for-promising-to-withdraw-triple-talaq-bill-196044">Triple Talaq bill </a>and the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-massive-outrage-in-northeast-citizenship-bill-to-be-tabled-in-rajya-sabha-today-196825">Citizenship Amendment Bill 2016</a>&nbsp;lapsed on the last day of the Budget session in the Parliament on Wednesday after the Rajya Sabha was adjourned sine die.

The Upper House was adjourned after it passed some bills including Interim Budget and Finance Bill for 2019-20 without debate.

Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu in his customary address at the close of the session rued that precious time of the House was lost in protests, stalling proceedings.

The Budget Session of Parliament commenced on January 31.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2016 which was initially scheduled to be tabled in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday&nbsp;could not be presented following the adjournment of the Rajya Sabha.

Amid the ruckus created by SP members, the Rajya Sabha was adjourned for the day without the bill being tabled. The bill was passed in the Lok Sabha in the recently concluded winter session of Parliament, leading to raging protests in the northeastern states.

The bill aimed to grant Indian citizenship to non-muslims who fled religious persecution from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan and entered India before December 31, 2014.

While The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha on December 27 last year with 245 votes in favour and 11 against the bill. The opposition parties had demanded the bill for further examining by a&nbsp;Select Committee of Parliament. The Centre, however, rejected the demand.

The Centre had re-promulgated an ordinance in January this year as the revised bill could not be passed in the Upper House of the parliament where the government lacks a majority.

The bill criminalised&nbsp;the practice of instant triple talaq with a provision of three years imprisonment to the erring husband.

The issue of triple talaq was taken up in the Parliament in August last year after a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court ruled "unconstitutional" a practice that allows Muslim men to divorce their wives simply by uttering "talaq" three times in quick succession.

In a landmark 3-2 verdict, the apex court found the practice un-Islamic and "arbitrary", and disagreed that triple talaq was an integral part of religious practice.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

The Triple Talaq bill and the Citizenship Amendment Bill 2016 lapsed on the last day of the Budget session in the Parliament on Wednesday after the Rajya Sabha was adjourned sine die.

The Triple Talaq bill and the Citizenship Amendment Bill 2016 lapsed on the last day of the Budget session in the Parliament on Wednesday after the Rajya Sabha was adjourned sine die. The Upper House was adjourned after it passed some bills including Interim Budget and Finance Bill for 2019-20 without debate. Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu in his customary address at the close of the session rued that precious time of the House was lost in protests, stalling proceedings. The Budget Session of Parliament commenced on January 31. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2016 which was initially scheduled to be tabled in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday could not be presented following the adjournment of the Rajya Sabha. Amid the ruckus created by SP members, the Rajya Sabha was adjourned for the day without the bill being tabled. The bill was passed in the Lok Sabha in the recently concluded winter session of Parliament, leading to raging protests in the northeastern states. The bill aimed to grant Indian citizenship to non-muslims who fled religious persecution from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan and entered India before December 31, 2014. While The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha on December 27 last year with 245 votes in favour and 11 against the bill. The opposition parties had demanded the bill for further examining by a Select Committee of Parliament. The Centre, however, rejected the demand. The Centre had re-promulgated an ordinance in January this year as the revised bill could not be passed in the Upper House of the parliament where the government lacks a majority. The bill criminalised the practice of instant triple talaq with a provision of three years imprisonment to the erring husband. The issue of triple talaq was taken up in the Parliament in August last year after a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court ruled "unconstitutional" a practice that allows Muslim men to divorce their wives simply by uttering "talaq" three times in quick succession. In a landmark 3-2 verdict, the apex court found the practice un-Islamic and "arbitrary", and disagreed that triple talaq was an integral part of religious practice. (With inputs from agencies)

Triple Talaq, Citizenship Amendment bills lapse as Rajya Sabha adjourned sine die

The Supreme Court on Monday said a plea challenging the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to provide Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan, could only be taken up after the bill was approved by the Rajya Sabha.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said it would keep the plea filed by the "Nagarikatwa Aain Songsudhan Birodhi Mancha" (Forum Against Citizenship Act Amendment Bill) and others pending and might hear it only after Parliament took the final view on the bill.

"Having heard the counsel for the petitioners, we are of the view that this matter should remain pending and be taken up only after the Citizenship Amendment Bill, the consideration of which is now stated to be pending before the Rajya Sabha, reaches its finality.

"The petitioners will be at liberty to mention the matter at the appropriate time," the bench, also comprising justices Ashok Bhushan and S K Kaul, said. 
The bill has been cleared by the Lok Sabha and it would now be presented in the Upper House of Parliament.

The public interest litigation (PIL) has sought to declare the Passport (Entry into India) Amendment Rules, 2015 and the Foreigners (Amendment) Order as "discriminatory, arbitrary and illegal".

"We can keep this plea pending and if it (bill) is passed in the Rajya Sabha, then the lawyer can mention it for hearing," the bench said.

The bill, passed in the Lok Sabha on January 8, provides for according Indian citizenship to the Hindus, Jains, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists and Parsis who fled religious persecution in Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan after six years of residence in India, instead of the 12 years currently, even if they do not possess any document.

It also seeks to provide relief to the persecuted migrants who have come through the western borders of the country to states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh etc., the home minister had said.

The PIL opposed the bill on the ground that it had introduced religion as a new principle into the citizenship law and termed it as "communally motivated humanitarianism".

"Never before has religion been specifically identified in the citizenship law as a ground for distinguishing between citizens and non-citizens. It has introduced religion as a new principle into the citizenship law and can be conveniently branded as 'communally motivated humanitarianism'.

"The illegal immigrants who are to be granted the benefit of this legislation are to qualify for citizenship only on the basis of religion, a requirement that goes against one of the basic tenets of the Indian Constitution, secularism," it said.

It further claimed that the "direct and inevitable" effect of the bill would be the dilution of the Assam Accord inked in 1985, which presently made anyone entering Assam from Bangladesh after March 24, 1971, an "illegal immigrant".

"The amendment defeats the purpose of the accord and opens the floodgates to more illegal immigration and consequently, increases claims on diminishing resources. The transformation of migrants, hitherto perceived as illegal encroachers, into legitimate citizens cannot be justified," it said.

The plea further claimed that the bill had the potential to "derail and nullify" the gains made by updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam.

"Many persons, who could not otherwise establish their claims and were therefore excluded from the draft NRC published recently, can now take shelter under this and subsequently, become legitimate Indian citizens at the cost of the indigenous people of Assam," it said.

The petition further alleged that Assam had repeatedly witnessed ethnic clashes and violence, which were arising out of existential threat perceptions, fear of being reduced to a minority in one's own homeland and giving up territories to foreigners and imposition of foreign or alien culture.

The PIL sought directions to the Centre, the Ministry of External Affairs and the Assam government to declare the Passport (Entry into India) Amendment Rules, 2015 and the Foreigners (Amendment) Order as "discriminatory, arbitrary and illegal".

It further sought directions to the Centre to constitute a National Immigration Commission or any other appropriate body to frame a National Immigration Policy and a National Refugee Policy.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Monday said a plea challenging the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to provide Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan, could only be taken up after the bill was approved by the Rajya Sabha.

The Supreme Court on Monday said a plea challenging the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to provide Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan, could only be taken up after the bill was approved by the Rajya Sabha. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said it would keep the plea filed by the "Nagarikatwa Aain Songsudhan Birodhi Mancha" (Forum Against Citizenship Act Amendment Bill) and others pending and might hear it only after Parliament took the final view on the bill. "Having heard the counsel for the petitioners, we are of the view that this matter should remain pending and be taken up only after the Citizenship Amendment Bill, the consideration of which is now stated to be pending before the Rajya Sabha, reaches its finality. "The petitioners will be at liberty to mention the matter at the appropriate time," the bench, also comprising justices Ashok Bhushan and S K Kaul, said. The bill has been cleared by the Lok Sabha and it would now be presented in the Upper House of Parliament. The public interest litigation (PIL) has sought to declare the Passport (Entry into India) Amendment Rules, 2015 and the Foreigners (Amendment) Order as "discriminatory, arbitrary and illegal". "We can keep this plea pending and if it (bill) is passed in the Rajya Sabha, then the lawyer can mention it for hearing," the bench said. The bill, passed in the Lok Sabha on January 8, provides for according Indian citizenship to the Hindus, Jains, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists and Parsis who fled religious persecution in Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan after six years of residence in India, instead of the 12 years currently, even if they do not possess any document. It also seeks to provide relief to the persecuted migrants who have come through the western borders of the country to states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh etc., the home minister had said. The PIL opposed the bill on the ground that it had introduced religion as a new principle into the citizenship law and termed it as "communally motivated humanitarianism". "Never before has religion been specifically identified in the citizenship law as a ground for distinguishing between citizens and non-citizens. It has introduced religion as a new principle into the citizenship law and can be conveniently branded as 'communally motivated humanitarianism'. "The illegal immigrants who are to be granted the benefit of this legislation are to qualify for citizenship only on the basis of religion, a requirement that goes against one of the basic tenets of the Indian Constitution, secularism," it said. It further claimed that the "direct and inevitable" effect of the bill would be the dilution of the Assam Accord inked in 1985, which presently made anyone entering Assam from Bangladesh after March 24, 1971, an "illegal immigrant". "The amendment defeats the purpose of the accord and opens the floodgates to more illegal immigration and consequently, increases claims on diminishing resources. The transformation of migrants, hitherto perceived as illegal encroachers, into legitimate citizens cannot be justified," it said. The plea further claimed that the bill had the potential to "derail and nullify" the gains made by updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam. "Many persons, who could not otherwise establish their claims and were therefore excluded from the draft NRC published recently, can now take shelter under this and subsequently, become legitimate Indian citizens at the cost of the indigenous people of Assam," it said. The petition further alleged that Assam had repeatedly witnessed ethnic clashes and violence, which were arising out of existential threat perceptions, fear of being reduced to a minority in one's own homeland and giving up territories to foreigners and imposition of foreign or alien culture. The PIL sought directions to the Centre, the Ministry of External Affairs and the Assam government to declare the Passport (Entry into India) Amendment Rules, 2015 and the Foreigners (Amendment) Order as "discriminatory, arbitrary and illegal". It further sought directions to the Centre to constitute a National Immigration Commission or any other appropriate body to frame a National Immigration Policy and a National Refugee Policy.

Supreme Court to hear plea against Citizenship Amendment Bill after Rajya Sabha clears it

The government has re-promulgated the ordinance banning the practice of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-committed-to-make-law-on-triple-talaq-pm-modi-185896">instant triple talaq</a>.

Under the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Ordinance, 2019, issued on Saturday, divorcing through instant triple talaq will be illegal, void and would attract a jail term of three years for the husband.

A Bill to convert the earlier ordinance, issued in September 2018, was cleared by Lok Sabha in December and was pending in Rajya Sabha.

Since the Bill could not get the parliamentary approval, the fresh ordinance was issued. The Union Cabinet had last week approved reissuance of the ordinance.

Seeking to allay fears that the proposed law could be misused, the government has included certain safeguards in it such as adding a provision of bail for the accused before trial

These amendments were cleared by the Cabinet on August 29, 2018.

While the ordinance makes it a "non-bailable" offence, an accused can approach a magistrate even before trial to seek bail.

In a non-bailable offence, bail cannot be granted by police at the police station itself.

A provision has been added to allow the magistrate to grant bail "after hearing the wife", the government had said.

The magistrate would ensure that bail is granted only after the husband agrees to grant compensation to the wife as provided in the bill.

The police would lodge an FIR only if approached by the victim (wife), her blood relations or people who become her relatives by virtue of her marriage.

Neighbours and others cannot lodge a complaint under the ordinance.

The offence of instant triple talaq will be "compoundable". A magistrate can use his powers to settle the dispute between a husband and his wife. This will happen only when the wife approaches the court.

Under a compoundable offence, both parties have the liberty of withdrawing the case.

The proposed law would only be applicable on instant triple talaq or 'talaq-e-biddat' and it would give power to the victim to approach a magistrate seeking "subsistence allowance" for herself and minor children.

A woman can also seek the custody of her minor children from the magistrate who will take a final call on the issue.&nbsp;

The government has re-promulgated the ordinance banning the practice of instant triple talaq. Under the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Ordinance, 2019, issued on Saturday, divorcing through instant triple talaq will be illegal, void and would attract a jail term of three years for the husband.

The government has re-promulgated the ordinance banning the practice of instant triple talaq. Under the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Ordinance, 2019, issued on Saturday, divorcing through instant triple talaq will be illegal, void and would attract a jail term of three years for the husband. A Bill to convert the earlier ordinance, issued in September 2018, was cleared by Lok Sabha in December and was pending in Rajya Sabha. Since the Bill could not get the parliamentary approval, the fresh ordinance was issued. The Union Cabinet had last week approved reissuance of the ordinance. Seeking to allay fears that the proposed law could be misused, the government has included certain safeguards in it such as adding a provision of bail for the accused before trial These amendments were cleared by the Cabinet on August 29, 2018. While the ordinance makes it a "non-bailable" offence, an accused can approach a magistrate even before trial to seek bail. In a non-bailable offence, bail cannot be granted by police at the police station itself. A provision has been added to allow the magistrate to grant bail "after hearing the wife", the government had said. The magistrate would ensure that bail is granted only after the husband agrees to grant compensation to the wife as provided in the bill. The police would lodge an FIR only if approached by the victim (wife), her blood relations or people who become her relatives by virtue of her marriage. Neighbours and others cannot lodge a complaint under the ordinance. The offence of instant triple talaq will be "compoundable". A magistrate can use his powers to settle the dispute between a husband and his wife. This will happen only when the wife approaches the court. Under a compoundable offence, both parties have the liberty of withdrawing the case. The proposed law would only be applicable on instant triple talaq or 'talaq-e-biddat' and it would give power to the victim to approach a magistrate seeking "subsistence allowance" for herself and minor children. A woman can also seek the custody of her minor children from the magistrate who will take a final call on the issue.

Government re-promulgates ordinance banning triple talaq, this time with safeguards

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-change-on-the-ground-under-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-army-chief-bipin-rawat-189394">No change on the ground under Pakistan PM Imran Khan: Army Chief Bipin Rawat</a>

He assured that the army has managed the situation both at the western and northern border and there is "no cause for concern."

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/referendum-not-a-good-way-to-decide-on-brexit-spain-foreign-minister-to-wion-189392">Referendum not a good way to decide on Brexit: Spain foreign minister to WION</a>

In an exclusive interview to WION, Spain's foreign minister Josep Borrell said that India is a remarkable example of unity in diversity and that it has an important role to play together with the western democracies in combating terrorism.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/seek-assurance-from-india-on-currency-notes-of-higher-denomination-nepal-foreign-minister-to-wion-189396">Seek assurance from India on currency notes of higher denomination: Nepal foreign minister to WION</a>

Nepal's Foreign Minister Pradeep Gyawali, who is in India, spoke to WION's Siddhant Sibal on the ban on Indian currency notes and a host of other issues. He also called for reactivation of the Southeast Association of Regional Cooperation or Saarc.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/no-indian-content-to-be-aired-in-the-country-as-it-damages-our-culture-says-pak-chief-justice-189398">No Indian content to be aired in the country as it 'damages our culture', says Pak Chief Justice</a>

The Chief Justice of Pakistan Saqib Nisar has said that the country's Supreme Court will not allow Indian shows to be aired on Pakistani TV channels. The court has stated that the shows damage the country's culture.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ranveer-singh-vicky-kaushal-alia-bhatt-and-others-feature-in-selfie-of-the-year-with-pm-modi-189416">Ranveer Singh, Vicky Kaushal, Alia Bhatt and others feature in selfie of the year with PM Modi</a>

The meeting was facilitated by Karan Johar and had leading Bollywood stars like Ranbir Kapoor, Ranveer Singh, Vicky Kaushal, Ayushmann Khurrana, Alia Bhatt, Bhumi Pednekar, Varun Dhawan and Siddharth Malhotra in attendance. Ekta Kapoor, directors Rohit Shetty and Ashwini Iyer Tiwari were also part of the delegation.

No change on the ground under Pakistan PM Imran Khan: Army Chief Bipin Rawat He assured that the army has managed the situation both at the western and northern border and there is "no cause for concern.

No change on the ground under Pakistan PM Imran Khan: Army Chief Bipin Rawat He assured that the army has managed the situation both at the western and northern border and there is "no cause for concern." Referendum not a good way to decide on Brexit: Spain foreign minister to WION In an exclusive interview to WION, Spain's foreign minister Josep Borrell said that India is a remarkable example of unity in diversity and that it has an important role to play together with the western democracies in combating terrorism. Seek assurance from India on currency notes of higher denomination: Nepal foreign minister to WION Nepal's Foreign Minister Pradeep Gyawali, who is in India, spoke to WION's Siddhant Sibal on the ban on Indian currency notes and a host of other issues. He also called for reactivation of the Southeast Association of Regional Cooperation or Saarc. No Indian content to be aired in the country as it 'damages our culture', says Pak Chief Justice The Chief Justice of Pakistan Saqib Nisar has said that the country's Supreme Court will not allow Indian shows to be aired on Pakistani TV channels. The court has stated that the shows damage the country's culture. Ranveer Singh, Vicky Kaushal, Alia Bhatt and others feature in selfie of the year with PM Modi The meeting was facilitated by Karan Johar and had leading Bollywood stars like Ranbir Kapoor, Ranveer Singh, Vicky Kaushal, Ayushmann Khurrana, Alia Bhatt, Bhumi Pednekar, Varun Dhawan and Siddharth Malhotra in attendance. Ekta Kapoor, directors Rohit Shetty and Ashwini Iyer Tiwari were also part of the delegation.

News brief: Big stories of the day

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/there-should-be-talks-with-the-taliban-army-chief-bipin-rawat-189220">There should be talks with the Taliban: Army chief Bipin Rawat</a>

Army chief General Bipin Rawat has said that "there should be talks with Taliban" but without any preconditions. Speaking at the fourth Raisina Dialogue in Delhi, he said talks with Taliban should happen "so long they don't come with a precondition and so long they look at lasting peace in Afghanistan and bring about stability in the country" and this is "in our interest, in region's interest, and it's in Pakistan's interest. We all want stability."

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-others-protest-as-government-moves-constitution-amendment-bill-in-rajya-sabha-189203">10% quota for poor: Congress, others protest as govt introduces </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-others-protest-as-government-moves-constitution-amendment-bill-in-rajya-sabha-189203">bill</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-others-protest-as-government-moves-constitution-amendment-bill-in-rajya-sabha-189203"> in Rajya Sabha</a>

The Congress and other opposition parties on Wednesday strongly protested in the Rajya Sabha and demanded the sending of the 'The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty- Four Amendment) Bill, 2019' to a select committee, after the government introduced the key legislation.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-has-changed-but-still-much-work-to-do-malala-yousafzai-189223">Pakistan has changed but there's still much work to do: Malala Yousafzai</a>

Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai says Pakistan has changed since she left the country nearly six years ago after being attacked by the Taliban and there is more peace but a lot of work is left to be done.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bharat-bandh-2nd-day-violent-protests-rail-blockades-witnessed-in-many-states-189235">Day 2 of Bharat Bandh: Bank attacked in Kerala, stones pelted at school buses in WB</a>

Sporadic incidents of violence in West Bengal and Kerala and rail blockades in certain states were witnessed Wednesday on the second day of Bharat Bandh, which also saw a partial disruption of banking and insurance services across the country.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/how-hardik-pandya-got-carried-away-comments-that-led-to-storm-and-show-cause-189240">How Hardik Pandya got 'carried away'; the comments that led to a storm and show cause notice</a>

It was meant to be a fun, no-holds-barred interaction but cricketer Hardik Pandya, by his own admission, got "carried away".

Appearing on "Koffee with Karan", hosted by filmmaker Karan Johar, with teammate K L Rahul, Pandya's apparent loose talk on women and his sexuality took many by surprise.&nbsp;

Three days after the celebrity chat show aired on Sunday, the two cricketers on Wednesday were issued show cause notices by the BCCI, which took note of the massive outrage on social media and elsewhere. 
&nbsp;

There should be talks with the Taliban: Army chief Bipin Rawat Army chief General Bipin Rawat has said that "there should be talks with Taliban" but without any preconditions.

There should be talks with the Taliban: Army chief Bipin Rawat Army chief General Bipin Rawat has said that "there should be talks with Taliban" but without any preconditions. Speaking at the fourth Raisina Dialogue in Delhi, he said talks with Taliban should happen "so long they don't come with a precondition and so long they look at lasting peace in Afghanistan and bring about stability in the country" and this is "in our interest, in region's interest, and it's in Pakistan's interest. We all want stability." 10% quota for poor: Congress, others protest as govt introduces bill in Rajya Sabha The Congress and other opposition parties on Wednesday strongly protested in the Rajya Sabha and demanded the sending of the 'The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty- Four Amendment) Bill, 2019' to a select committee, after the government introduced the key legislation. Pakistan has changed but there's still much work to do: Malala Yousafzai Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai says Pakistan has changed since she left the country nearly six years ago after being attacked by the Taliban and there is more peace but a lot of work is left to be done. Day 2 of Bharat Bandh: Bank attacked in Kerala, stones pelted at school buses in WB Sporadic incidents of violence in West Bengal and Kerala and rail blockades in certain states were witnessed Wednesday on the second day of Bharat Bandh, which also saw a partial disruption of banking and insurance services across the country. How Hardik Pandya got 'carried away'; the comments that led to a storm and show cause notice It was meant to be a fun, no-holds-barred interaction but cricketer Hardik Pandya, by his own admission, got "carried away". Appearing on "Koffee with Karan", hosted by filmmaker Karan Johar, with teammate K L Rahul, Pandya's apparent loose talk on women and his sexuality took many by surprise. Three days after the celebrity chat show aired on Sunday, the two cricketers on Wednesday were issued show cause notices by the BCCI, which took note of the massive outrage on social media and elsewhere.

The Rajya Sabha will take up the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill '18, popularly known as Triple Talaq Bill, on Thursday for consideration and passing.

The Bill criminalises the practice of instant triple talaq with a provision of 3 years'&nbsp;imprisonment to the husband.

The Upper House could not discuss the Bill on Wednesday due to repeated adjournments following the ruckus created by opposition members over the Bill and the Centre's approval to Karnataka's Mekedatu dam on Cauvery river.

The Triple Talaq Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha on December 27 last year with 245 votes in favour and 11 against the Bill.

The opposition parties want the Bill to be sent to the Select Committee of Parliament for further vetting, a demand rejected by the Centre.

According to the Business List, the Upper House will also take up for consideration and passing the National Council for Technical Education (NCTE) Amendment Bill '18, and Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Amendment Bill '18, the Appropriation (No.6) Bill '18.

Union Shipping and Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari will also make a statement on Mekedatu project of Karnataka. AIADMK leader and Deputy Lok Sabha Speaker M Thambi Durai has said the Centre's nod to Mekedatu project is the BJP's electoral ploy.

The Winter Session of Parliament, which began on December 11, will conclude on January 8.

The Rajya Sabha will take up the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill '18, popularly known as Triple Talaq Bill, on Thursday for consideration and passing.

The Rajya Sabha will take up the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill '18, popularly known as Triple Talaq Bill, on Thursday for consideration and passing. The Bill criminalises the practice of instant triple talaq with a provision of 3 years' imprisonment to the husband. The Upper House could not discuss the Bill on Wednesday due to repeated adjournments following the ruckus created by opposition members over the Bill and the Centre's approval to Karnataka's Mekedatu dam on Cauvery river. The Triple Talaq Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha on December 27 last year with 245 votes in favour and 11 against the Bill. The opposition parties want the Bill to be sent to the Select Committee of Parliament for further vetting, a demand rejected by the Centre. According to the Business List, the Upper House will also take up for consideration and passing the National Council for Technical Education (NCTE) Amendment Bill '18, and Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Amendment Bill '18, the Appropriation (No.6) Bill '18. Union Shipping and Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari will also make a statement on Mekedatu project of Karnataka. AIADMK leader and Deputy Lok Sabha Speaker M Thambi Durai has said the Centre's nod to Mekedatu project is the BJP's electoral ploy. The Winter Session of Parliament, which began on December 11, will conclude on January 8.

Rajya Sabha to take up triple talaq bill today

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-holds-meeting-ahead-of-tabling-of-triple-talaq-bill-in-rajya-sabha-187446">Triple talaq bill</a> will be tabled in the Rajya Sabha during the second proceedings of the House on Monday.

Amid the huge uproar by the opposition over the bill and other issues, the Deputy Chairman had earlier called off the parliament proceedings and adjourned the upper house of the Parliament till 2 pm.

As soon as papers were laid, AIADMK members had trooped into the well of House raising the Cauvery issue and shouting slogans "We want Justice". Some DMK members too were on their feet.

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Meanwhile, PM Modi also held a high-level meeting with Party President&nbsp;Amit Shah, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and Home Minister Rajnath Singh to discuss the&nbsp;triple talaq bill.&nbsp;

The leaders of the opposition parties, earlier today, held a meeting in the Rajya Sabha ahead of the tabling of the bill.

The opposition has been demanding to send the bill to an 11-member Select Committee for further assessment after its passage from the Lok Sabha last week.

The Trinamool Congress has already moved&nbsp;for the reference of the bill to the Select Committee of Rajya Sabha.

The bill, that makes the practice of instant divorce among Muslims a criminal offence with a provision of three-year jail term for the erring husband, was passed by the Lok Sabha on Thursday with&nbsp;the support of 245 votes against 11 on Thursday.

The government brought the measure after a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court termed as unconstitutional the practice that allowed Muslim men to divorce their wives by simply uttering the word 'talaq' three times in quick succession.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Triple talaq bill will be tabled in the Rajya Sabha during the second proceedings of the House on Monday. Amid the huge uproar by the opposition over the bill and other issues, the Deputy Chairman had earlier called off the parliament proceedings and adjourned the upper house of the Parliament till 2 pm.

The Triple talaq bill will be tabled in the Rajya Sabha during the second proceedings of the House on Monday. Amid the huge uproar by the opposition over the bill and other issues, the Deputy Chairman had earlier called off the parliament proceedings and adjourned the upper house of the Parliament till 2 pm. As soon as papers were laid, AIADMK members had trooped into the well of House raising the Cauvery issue and shouting slogans "We want Justice". Some DMK members too were on their feet. #WinterSession : Rajya Sabha adjourned till 2 pm after uproar by opposition over different issues. pic.twitter.com/mATsfybsZl — ANI (@ANI) December 31, 2018 × Meanwhile, PM Modi also held a high-level meeting with Party President Amit Shah, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and Home Minister Rajnath Singh to discuss the triple talaq bill. The leaders of the opposition parties, earlier today, held a meeting in the Rajya Sabha ahead of the tabling of the bill. The opposition has been demanding to send the bill to an 11-member Select Committee for further assessment after its passage from the Lok Sabha last week. The Trinamool Congress has already moved for the reference of the bill to the Select Committee of Rajya Sabha. The bill, that makes the practice of instant divorce among Muslims a criminal offence with a provision of three-year jail term for the erring husband, was passed by the Lok Sabha on Thursday with the support of 245 votes against 11 on Thursday. The government brought the measure after a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court termed as unconstitutional the practice that allowed Muslim men to divorce their wives by simply uttering the word 'talaq' three times in quick succession. (With inputs from agencies)

Rajya Sabha resumes discussion on crucial triple talaq bill

The contentious <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-wont-let-triple-talaq-bill-pass-in-rajya-sabha-k-c-venugopal-187198">triple talaq bill</a> seeking to criminalise the practice of instant divorce among Muslims is set to be tabled in the Rajya Sabha Monday, even as the Congress has said it will not allow its passage in the present form.

The ruling BJP has issued a whip in the Upper House asking its members to be present. Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad will table the bill in the Upper House.&nbsp;

The bill was cleared by the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-passes-triple-talaq-bill-congress-aiadmk-stage-walkout-186851">Lok Sabha</a> -- 245 voting in favour and 11&nbsp;opposing it -- on Thursday amid a walkout by the Opposition.

Prasad had on Friday claimed the bill will find support in the Rajya Sabha, where the BJP-led NDA lacks numbers.&nbsp;

The bill is listed in the Rajya Sabha's legislative agenda for Monday.

All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary K C Venugopal told reporters in Kochi Saturday the party would join hands with others to prevent the bill from getting passed in the House.

He said 10 opposition parties had openly come out against the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2018 when it was introduced in the Lok Sabha.

Even the parties which support the government on various issues, including the AIADMK, have opposed the bill, said Venugopal, who is also a Congress floor strategist.

The opposition has questioned the stringent provisions like criminalisation of a civil wrong in the triple talaq bill.

The Opposition has been demanding that the bill be referred to a 'Joint Select Committee' of Parliament for further scrutiny.

On Thursday, the government rejected the Opposition's contention the bill it was aimed at targeting a particular community.

Piloting the bill, Prasad had said there should be no politics on the bill, stressing it was not against any particular community.

Describing the passage of the triple talaq bill in the Lok Sabha as a historic step towards ensuring equality and dignity of Muslim women, BJP chief Amit Shah had demanded an apology from the Congress for "decades of injustice".&nbsp;

The fresh Bill to make the practice of triple talaq among Muslims a penal offence was introduced in Lok Sabha on December 17 to replace an ordinance issued in September.

Under the proposed law, giving instant triple talaq will be illegal and void, and will attract a jail term of three years for the husband.

The fresh bill will supersede an earlier bill passed in the Lok Sabha and pending in the Rajya Sabha.

The earlier bill was approved by the Lower House.

But amid opposition by some parties in the upper house, the government had cleared some amendments, including introduction of a provision of bail, to make it more acceptable.

However, as the bill continued to face resistance in the Rajya Sabha, the government issued an ordinance in September, incorporating the amendments.

An ordinance has a life of six months. But from the day a session begins, it has to be replaced by a bill which should be passed by Parliament within 42 days (six weeks), else it lapses.

The government is at liberty to re-promulgate the ordinance if the bill fails to get through Parliament.

Introducing the bill, the Law Minister had said despite the Supreme Court striking down the practice of talaq-e-biddat (instant triple talaq), terming it unconstitutional, divorces in this form were taking place.

Citing details of instant triple talaq cases, the government had last week informed Lok Sabha that till now 430 incidents of triple talaq have come to the notice of the government through the media.

Of these, 229 were reported before the Supreme Court judgment, while another 201 came to the notice after it.

These cases were reported between the period of January 2017 and September 13, 2018.

The contentious triple talaq bill seeking to criminalise the practice of instant divorce among Muslims is set to be tabled in the Rajya Sabha Monday, even as the Congress has said it will not allow its passage in the present form.

The contentious triple talaq bill seeking to criminalise the practice of instant divorce among Muslims is set to be tabled in the Rajya Sabha Monday, even as the Congress has said it will not allow its passage in the present form. The ruling BJP has issued a whip in the Upper House asking its members to be present. Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad will table the bill in the Upper House. The bill was cleared by the Lok Sabha -- 245 voting in favour and 11 opposing it -- on Thursday amid a walkout by the Opposition. Prasad had on Friday claimed the bill will find support in the Rajya Sabha, where the BJP-led NDA lacks numbers. The bill is listed in the Rajya Sabha's legislative agenda for Monday. All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary K C Venugopal told reporters in Kochi Saturday the party would join hands with others to prevent the bill from getting passed in the House. He said 10 opposition parties had openly come out against the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2018 when it was introduced in the Lok Sabha. Even the parties which support the government on various issues, including the AIADMK, have opposed the bill, said Venugopal, who is also a Congress floor strategist. The opposition has questioned the stringent provisions like criminalisation of a civil wrong in the triple talaq bill. The Opposition has been demanding that the bill be referred to a 'Joint Select Committee' of Parliament for further scrutiny. On Thursday, the government rejected the Opposition's contention the bill it was aimed at targeting a particular community. Piloting the bill, Prasad had said there should be no politics on the bill, stressing it was not against any particular community. Describing the passage of the triple talaq bill in the Lok Sabha as a historic step towards ensuring equality and dignity of Muslim women, BJP chief Amit Shah had demanded an apology from the Congress for "decades of injustice". The fresh Bill to make the practice of triple talaq among Muslims a penal offence was introduced in Lok Sabha on December 17 to replace an ordinance issued in September. Under the proposed law, giving instant triple talaq will be illegal and void, and will attract a jail term of three years for the husband. The fresh bill will supersede an earlier bill passed in the Lok Sabha and pending in the Rajya Sabha. The earlier bill was approved by the Lower House. But amid opposition by some parties in the upper house, the government had cleared some amendments, including introduction of a provision of bail, to make it more acceptable. However, as the bill continued to face resistance in the Rajya Sabha, the government issued an ordinance in September, incorporating the amendments. An ordinance has a life of six months. But from the day a session begins, it has to be replaced by a bill which should be passed by Parliament within 42 days (six weeks), else it lapses. The government is at liberty to re-promulgate the ordinance if the bill fails to get through Parliament. Introducing the bill, the Law Minister had said despite the Supreme Court striking down the practice of talaq-e-biddat (instant triple talaq), terming it unconstitutional, divorces in this form were taking place. Citing details of instant triple talaq cases, the government had last week informed Lok Sabha that till now 430 incidents of triple talaq have come to the notice of the government through the media. Of these, 229 were reported before the Supreme Court judgment, while another 201 came to the notice after it. These cases were reported between the period of January 2017 and September 13, 2018.

Rajya Sabha to discuss Triple Talaq Bill on December 31; BJP, Congress issue whips

The controversial Citizenship Amendment Bill may not able to get through during the Winter session of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-mp-goof-up-in-lok-sabha-cites-miners-trapped-in-mizoram-instead-of-meghalaya-186977">Parliamen</a>t which comes to an end on January 8, sources said Sunday.

A meeting of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), which is examining the bill, will be held on Monday to finalise the proposed legislation before being submitted to the Lok Sabha.

The bill seeks to amend the Citizenship Act, 1955, to grant Indian nationality to people belonging to minority communities -- Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians -- in Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan after six years of residence in India instead of 12, even if they don't possess any proper document.

This was an election promise of the BJP in 2014.

"The bill is likely to be tabled in the Lok Sabha either on January 7 or 8. There is very little time for debate before it is passed in the Lower House and then in the Rajya Sabha," a source privy to the deliberations told PTI.

However, in Monday's meeting the BJP may have its way in incorporating some "contentious" provisions in the proposed legislation.

JPC chairman Rajendra Agrawal said the committee will try to finalise the bill through consensus after examining every clause.

"However, if we cannot reach a consensus, we will go for voting, which is a standard procedure for Parliament," he told PTI.

The BJP has 14 MPs, including Agrawal, in the 30-member panel. The Congress has four members while the Trinamool Congress and the Biju Janata Dal have two MPs each. The Shiv Sena, JD(U), TRS, TDP, CPI(M), AIADMK, SP, BSP have one member each in the panel.

The Congress, Trinamool Congress, CPI(M) and a few other parties have been steadfastly opposing the bill claiming that citizenship can't be given on basis of religion.

"If there is voting, the BJP is likely to have its way in incorporating some contentious clauses. Monday's meeting is very crucial," sources said.

In the last meeting of the JPC, held on November 27, opposition members moved clause-by-clause amendments and one Congress MP sought removal of Bangladesh from the purview of the proposed legislation.

Interestingly, an NDA member suggested that Assam, where the bill received strong opposition, should be excluded from the ambit of the legislation.

Various members from opposition parties have been asserting that&nbsp; 
citizenship is a constitutional provision and it cannot be based on religion, as India is a secular nation.

Rather than resolving the situation in Assam, this bill is making the condition more volatile in the already tense state, an opposition member in the panel had said.

Echoing similar sentiments, a Congress member said if all the proposed amendments come into force, then the Centre has to nullify the Assam Accord under which anyone entering the state illegally after March 1971, should be declared foreigner and deported.

Agrawal said they were bound to submit the report in this session as in all practical purposes, Winter session is the last session of the current Lok Sabha.

A large section of people and organisations in the northeast have opposed the bill saying it will nullify the provisions of the Assam Accord of 1985, which fixed March 24, 1971, as the cut-off date for deportation of illegal immigrants irrespective of religion.

Even the governments of Meghalaya and Mizoram have strongly opposed the bill and adopted resolutions against it.

The committee has already taken six extensions from the Lok Sabha Speaker. Last time it had sought time for the presentation of the report was on the "first day of the last week of the Winter Session, 2018".

During the course of its examination and study visits, the committee met a cross-section of people in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Assam and Meghalaya and heard views of organisations, individuals, experts and others over the issue.

The committee also heard the views of the chief secretaries and police chiefs of Assam, Bihar, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Maharashtra and West Bengal.&nbsp;

The controversial Citizenship Amendment Bill may not able to get through during the Winter session of Parliament which comes to an end on January 8, sources said Sunday.

The controversial Citizenship Amendment Bill may not able to get through during the Winter session of Parliament which comes to an end on January 8, sources said Sunday. A meeting of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), which is examining the bill, will be held on Monday to finalise the proposed legislation before being submitted to the Lok Sabha. The bill seeks to amend the Citizenship Act, 1955, to grant Indian nationality to people belonging to minority communities -- Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians -- in Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan after six years of residence in India instead of 12, even if they don't possess any proper document. This was an election promise of the BJP in 2014. "The bill is likely to be tabled in the Lok Sabha either on January 7 or 8. There is very little time for debate before it is passed in the Lower House and then in the Rajya Sabha," a source privy to the deliberations told PTI. However, in Monday's meeting the BJP may have its way in incorporating some "contentious" provisions in the proposed legislation. JPC chairman Rajendra Agrawal said the committee will try to finalise the bill through consensus after examining every clause. "However, if we cannot reach a consensus, we will go for voting, which is a standard procedure for Parliament," he told PTI. The BJP has 14 MPs, including Agrawal, in the 30-member panel. The Congress has four members while the Trinamool Congress and the Biju Janata Dal have two MPs each. The Shiv Sena, JD(U), TRS, TDP, CPI(M), AIADMK, SP, BSP have one member each in the panel. The Congress, Trinamool Congress, CPI(M) and a few other parties have been steadfastly opposing the bill claiming that citizenship can't be given on basis of religion. "If there is voting, the BJP is likely to have its way in incorporating some contentious clauses. Monday's meeting is very crucial," sources said. In the last meeting of the JPC, held on November 27, opposition members moved clause-by-clause amendments and one Congress MP sought removal of Bangladesh from the purview of the proposed legislation. Interestingly, an NDA member suggested that Assam, where the bill received strong opposition, should be excluded from the ambit of the legislation. Various members from opposition parties have been asserting that citizenship is a constitutional provision and it cannot be based on religion, as India is a secular nation. Rather than resolving the situation in Assam, this bill is making the condition more volatile in the already tense state, an opposition member in the panel had said. Echoing similar sentiments, a Congress member said if all the proposed amendments come into force, then the Centre has to nullify the Assam Accord under which anyone entering the state illegally after March 1971, should be declared foreigner and deported. Agrawal said they were bound to submit the report in this session as in all practical purposes, Winter session is the last session of the current Lok Sabha. A large section of people and organisations in the northeast have opposed the bill saying it will nullify the provisions of the Assam Accord of 1985, which fixed March 24, 1971, as the cut-off date for deportation of illegal immigrants irrespective of religion. Even the governments of Meghalaya and Mizoram have strongly opposed the bill and adopted resolutions against it. The committee has already taken six extensions from the Lok Sabha Speaker. Last time it had sought time for the presentation of the report was on the "first day of the last week of the Winter Session, 2018". During the course of its examination and study visits, the committee met a cross-section of people in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Assam and Meghalaya and heard views of organisations, individuals, experts and others over the issue. The committee also heard the views of the chief secretaries and police chiefs of Assam, Bihar, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Maharashtra and West Bengal.

Citizenship amendment bill may not get through in Winter session

The Congress party will not let the passage of the triple talaq bill in its present form in the Rajya Sabha, AICC general secretary K C Venugopal said here Saturday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/30-bjp-lawmakers-fails-to-show-up-at-triple-talaq-bill-discussion-186998">Triple Talaq Bill </a>will be moved by Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad in Rajya Sabha on 31 December.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TripleTalaq?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TripleTalaq</a> Bill will be moved by Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad in Rajya Sabha on 31 December
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1078968155123343360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The party would join hands with those parties with which it can ally with to&nbsp;defeat the bill in the present form, he told reporters here.

He said 10 opposition parties had come out openly against the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2018 when it was introduced in the Lok Sabha.

Even the parties, including AIADMK which supports the government on various issues and the Trinamool Congress, have come out openly against the bill, said Venugopal who is also a Congress floor strategist.

Condemning the bill, he said stringent provisions like criminalisation of a&nbsp;civil wrong were there in the triple talaq bill and it was not at all acceptable for the opposition parties, including the Congress.

"...The bill will not help empower the women", Venugopal said.

The bill, passed by the Lok Sabha on Thursday, is expected to be considered by the Rajya Sabha next week.

He claimed there was no confusion in the Congress-led UPA or party-led UDF in Kerala regarding the bill.

Recalling the passage of the bill in another form in the Lok Sabha in 2017, the Alappuzha MP said the then government could not push the bill in the Upper House due to the stringent opposition from the Congress and other opposition parties.

"That is the reason why the government brought the ordinance and re-introduced the bill again in the Lok Sabha. But the Congress will oppose its passage in the present form in the Rajya Sabha," he said.

The Congress had earlier accused the NDA government of getting the triple talaq bill passed in haste in the Lok Sabha keeping in mind the 2019 general elections.

The party has said its provisions were against the Constitution as well as fundamental rights.

The Lok Sabha Thursday passed the bill criminalising the practice of instant triple talaq, with the government rejecting the contention that it was aimed at targeting a particular community.

The opposition, which had been demanding that the bill be referred to a 'joint select committee', staged a walkout when its demand was rejected by the government.

The bill was passed by the Lower House with 245 voting in favour and 11 opposing the legislation.

It would now go to the Rajya Sabha for passage and if passed would become the law.

Piloting the bill, Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad had said there should be no politics on the bill, stressing that it was not against any particular community.

Describing the passage of the triple talaq bill as a historic step to ensure equality and dignity of Muslim women, BJP chief Amit Shah had demanded apology from the Congress for decades of injustice.

The Congress party will not let the passage of the triple talaq bill in its present form in the Rajya Sabha, AICC general secretary K C Venugopal said here Saturday.

The Congress party will not let the passage of the triple talaq bill in its present form in the Rajya Sabha, AICC general secretary K C Venugopal said here Saturday. Triple Talaq Bill will be moved by Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad in Rajya Sabha on 31 December. #TripleTalaq Bill will be moved by Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad in Rajya Sabha on 31 December — ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2018 × The party would join hands with those parties with which it can ally with to defeat the bill in the present form, he told reporters here. He said 10 opposition parties had come out openly against the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2018 when it was introduced in the Lok Sabha. Even the parties, including AIADMK which supports the government on various issues and the Trinamool Congress, have come out openly against the bill, said Venugopal who is also a Congress floor strategist. Condemning the bill, he said stringent provisions like criminalisation of a civil wrong were there in the triple talaq bill and it was not at all acceptable for the opposition parties, including the Congress. "...The bill will not help empower the women", Venugopal said. The bill, passed by the Lok Sabha on Thursday, is expected to be considered by the Rajya Sabha next week. He claimed there was no confusion in the Congress-led UPA or party-led UDF in Kerala regarding the bill. Recalling the passage of the bill in another form in the Lok Sabha in 2017, the Alappuzha MP said the then government could not push the bill in the Upper House due to the stringent opposition from the Congress and other opposition parties. "That is the reason why the government brought the ordinance and re-introduced the bill again in the Lok Sabha. But the Congress will oppose its passage in the present form in the Rajya Sabha," he said. The Congress had earlier accused the NDA government of getting the triple talaq bill passed in haste in the Lok Sabha keeping in mind the 2019 general elections. The party has said its provisions were against the Constitution as well as fundamental rights. The Lok Sabha Thursday passed the bill criminalising the practice of instant triple talaq, with the government rejecting the contention that it was aimed at targeting a particular community. The opposition, which had been demanding that the bill be referred to a 'joint select committee', staged a walkout when its demand was rejected by the government. The bill was passed by the Lower House with 245 voting in favour and 11 opposing the legislation. It would now go to the Rajya Sabha for passage and if passed would become the law. Piloting the bill, Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad had said there should be no politics on the bill, stressing that it was not against any particular community. Describing the passage of the triple talaq bill as a historic step to ensure equality and dignity of Muslim women, BJP chief Amit Shah had demanded apology from the Congress for decades of injustice.

Won't let triple talaq bill pass in Rajya Sabha: Congress general secretary KC Venugopal 

British authorities have informed India that bank fraud fugitive <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/efforts-on-to-bring-back-29-economic-offenders-including-vijay-mallya-nirav-modi-mehul-choksi-government-185383">Nirav Modi</a> is living in the UK, the government has said.

Replying to a question, Minister of State for External Affairs V K Singh told Rajya Sabha that National Central Bureau of Manchester conveyed to Indian agencies that their investigations have led to the location of Nirav Modi in the UK.

"In August 2018, the government sent two requests, one from the CBI and the other from the Enforcement Directorate, to the authorities of the UK seeking the extradition of Nirav Modi to India," he said.

He said the requests are presently under the consideration of the authorities concerned of the UK.

In June, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had written to several European countries seeking help in tracing Nirav Modi.

Nirav Modi is wanted in connection with Punjab National Bank fraud case.

British authorities have informed India that bank fraud fugitive Nirav Modi is living in the UK, the government has said. Replying to a question, Minister of State for External Affairs V K Singh told Rajya Sabha that National Central Bureau of Manchester conveyed to Indian agencies that their investigations have led to the location of Nirav Modi in the UK.

British authorities have informed India that bank fraud fugitive Nirav Modi is living in the UK, the government has said. Replying to a question, Minister of State for External Affairs V K Singh told Rajya Sabha that National Central Bureau of Manchester conveyed to Indian agencies that their investigations have led to the location of Nirav Modi in the UK. "In August 2018, the government sent two requests, one from the CBI and the other from the Enforcement Directorate, to the authorities of the UK seeking the extradition of Nirav Modi to India," he said. He said the requests are presently under the consideration of the authorities concerned of the UK. In June, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had written to several European countries seeking help in tracing Nirav Modi. Nirav Modi is wanted in connection with Punjab National Bank fraud case.

Nirav Modi located in UK, British authorities inform India: Government

After <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-passes-triple-talaq-bill-congress-aiadmk-stage-walkout-186851">Lok Sabha passed triple talaq bill</a> amid huge uproar by some Opposition parties on Thursday, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh targeted Congress for not supporting the bill and said this step was essential and he couldn't understand why they walked out this time.

"This was essential and it has been passed. Congress had supported it last time, I can't understand why they walked out this time. I am sure this bill will be passed in the Rajya Sabha as well," Union Home Minister stated while addressing media.

The bill passed in Lok Sabha proposes to make the practice of instant triple talaq a punishable offence under the Indian Penal Code with the provision of a three-year jail term for the erring husband.

During the proceedings in Lok Sabha regarding the bill, some Opposition parties kept insisting on sending the bill to a Joint Select Committee and walked out of the House just before the bill was put to vote as their demand was not accepted.

Meanwhile, BJP chief Amit Shah took to Twitter to congratulate the government for passing the triple talaq bill in Lok Sabha."Congratulations to PM Modi ji and the entire government for successfully passing the triple talaq bill in Lok Sabha. This is a historic step ensuring equality and dignity for the Muslim women. Congress and other parties must apologise for decades of injustice towards Muslim women," he wrote.

Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore also praised Modi government on Twitter for their commitment towards women empowerment.

"The passing of triple talaq bill by Lok Sabha is a momentous occasion for the dignity and rights of India's Muslim women. The relentless pursuit of enacting this law is testament to PM Narendra Modi government's commitment to the empowerment of women," he said.

The Bill was taken up in the Parliament in August last year after a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court termed unconstitutional the law that allowed Muslim men to divorce their wives simply by uttering the word "talaq" three times in quick succession.

After Lok Sabha passed triple talaq bill amid huge uproar by some Opposition parties on Thursday, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh targeted Congress for not supporting the bill and said this step was essential and he couldn't understand why they walked out this time.

After Lok Sabha passed triple talaq bill amid huge uproar by some Opposition parties on Thursday, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh targeted Congress for not supporting the bill and said this step was essential and he couldn't understand why they walked out this time. "This was essential and it has been passed. Congress had supported it last time, I can't understand why they walked out this time. I am sure this bill will be passed in the Rajya Sabha as well," Union Home Minister stated while addressing media. The bill passed in Lok Sabha proposes to make the practice of instant triple talaq a punishable offence under the Indian Penal Code with the provision of a three-year jail term for the erring husband. During the proceedings in Lok Sabha regarding the bill, some Opposition parties kept insisting on sending the bill to a Joint Select Committee and walked out of the House just before the bill was put to vote as their demand was not accepted. Meanwhile, BJP chief Amit Shah took to Twitter to congratulate the government for passing the triple talaq bill in Lok Sabha."Congratulations to PM Modi ji and the entire government for successfully passing the triple talaq bill in Lok Sabha. This is a historic step ensuring equality and dignity for the Muslim women. Congress and other parties must apologise for decades of injustice towards Muslim women," he wrote. Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore also praised Modi government on Twitter for their commitment towards women empowerment. "The passing of triple talaq bill by Lok Sabha is a momentous occasion for the dignity and rights of India's Muslim women. The relentless pursuit of enacting this law is testament to PM Narendra Modi government's commitment to the empowerment of women," he said. The Bill was taken up in the Parliament in August last year after a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court termed unconstitutional the law that allowed Muslim men to divorce their wives simply by uttering the word "talaq" three times in quick succession.

Rajnath Singh targets Congress for opposing triple talaq bill in Lok Sabha

Rajya Sabha members, including TMC's Derek O'Brien and Congress's Rajeev Gowda, on Friday assured the transgender community they will not let the Transgender Persons Protection of Rights Bill pass the upper house in its present form and ensure it is sent to the select committee for modifications.

Calling the bill a dangerous piece of legislation that ignores the critiques made by them, members of the transgender community on Friday staged a protest against the bill at Jantar Mantar in Delhi.

Gowda said a "massive injustice" is being perpetuated through the bill.

"We saw that without much discussion a bill was passed in Lok Sabha. The bill which claims to protecting the rights of the transgender community is actually doing the exact opposite," the Congress spokesperson said.

"When it comes to Rajya Sabha, there is a whole group of us gathered across party lines who will send it to select committee. That will give us a chance to sit with it, to work on improving it and to counter all the negativity infused by the government into the bill," he said.

Tiruchi Siva, a DMK Rajya Sabha member, said the bill is "absurd".

"The government does not even have an idea as what is a transgender.&nbsp;Going through a medical test to prove that you are a transgender is an insult rather than a right given through the bill," he said.

He said the bill will not get passed in Rajya Sabha in its current form. Derek O'Brien promised that the bill will not get passed in Rajya Sabha.

"The movement carried out by the community against the bill is very good and transgenders are loved in Bengal. My message is that don't worry, TMC is the third-largest party in Rajya Sabha and 47 MPs from the party promise that the bill will not be passed in Rajya Sabha. We also have support from other parties. This bill will go to select committee," O'Brien said.

CPI(M) MP Elamaram Kareem also expressed support for the bill and promised they would not let it pass in its current form.

Rajya Sabha members, including TMC's Derek O'Brien and Congress's Rajeev Gowda, on Friday assured the transgender community they will not let the Transgender Persons Protection of Rights Bill pass the upper house in its present form and ensure it is sent to the select committee for modifications.

Rajya Sabha members, including TMC's Derek O'Brien and Congress's Rajeev Gowda, on Friday assured the transgender community they will not let the Transgender Persons Protection of Rights Bill pass the upper house in its present form and ensure it is sent to the select committee for modifications. Calling the bill a dangerous piece of legislation that ignores the critiques made by them, members of the transgender community on Friday staged a protest against the bill at Jantar Mantar in Delhi. Gowda said a "massive injustice" is being perpetuated through the bill. "We saw that without much discussion a bill was passed in Lok Sabha. The bill which claims to protecting the rights of the transgender community is actually doing the exact opposite," the Congress spokesperson said. "When it comes to Rajya Sabha, there is a whole group of us gathered across party lines who will send it to select committee. That will give us a chance to sit with it, to work on improving it and to counter all the negativity infused by the government into the bill," he said. Tiruchi Siva, a DMK Rajya Sabha member, said the bill is "absurd". "The government does not even have an idea as what is a transgender. Going through a medical test to prove that you are a transgender is an insult rather than a right given through the bill," he said. He said the bill will not get passed in Rajya Sabha in its current form. Derek O'Brien promised that the bill will not get passed in Rajya Sabha. "The movement carried out by the community against the bill is very good and transgenders are loved in Bengal. My message is that don't worry, TMC is the third-largest party in Rajya Sabha and 47 MPs from the party promise that the bill will not be passed in Rajya Sabha. We also have support from other parties. This bill will go to select committee," O'Brien said. CPI(M) MP Elamaram Kareem also expressed support for the bill and promised they would not let it pass in its current form.

Will not let transgender bill pass in current form: Rajya Sabha members assure community

It is a big day for Muslim women with the Lok Sabha set to discuss the bill on instant triple talaq, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Vijay Goel said on Thursday as the government struggled to get consensus on the issue.

Leaders from various parties spoke on the issue of the proposed law that will make instant triple talaq illegal and void and attract a jail term of three years for the husband.

"It is a big day for Muslim women. They have been facing injustice for the past 1,000 years. The Modi government is going to pass the bill against triple talaq. It could have happened in 2017, but certain state Congress governments were opposing the decision. The Cabinet passed an ordinance and now the government is going to free all Muslim women from triple talaq," Goel told reporters outside Parliament.

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge appealed to the government to refrain from interfering in religious matters.

"We will discuss the bill. The government shouldn't interfere in religious matters," Kharge said, citing Article 25 of the Constitution on 'freedom of conscience and free profession, practice and propagation of religion'.

The government, he said, is interfering in every religious matter.

"Hence, we're fighting it. We will ask all parties about the bill, on whether there are problems with it. We will see if sending it to a parliamentary committee is the solution," said the Congress leader.

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Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress on discussion on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TripleTalaqbill?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TripleTalaqbill</a> in Lok Sabha today: We will take part in the discussion and keep forward our opinion. We will appeal to the govt that it should not interfere in a religious matter. <a href="https://t.co/ThQ4U5fxz5">pic.twitter.com/ThQ4U5fxz5</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1078156633035935744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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CPI leader D Raja told reporters that the bill should be sent to a select committee for further deliberations.

According to Shiv Sena MP Arvind Sawant, the husband should not directly be sent to jail.

"That needs to be figured out," he said.

The Lok Sabha last week decided to take up the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-to-take-up-discussion-on-triple-talaq-bill-today-186756">Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill</a>, 2018, on December 27 after the Congress agreed to participate in the debate.

The fresh bill to make the practice of triple talaq among Muslims a penal offence was introduced in Lok Sabha on December 17 to replace an ordinance issued in September.

The fresh bill will supersede an earlier bill passed in the Lok Sabha and pending in the Rajya Sabha.

The earlier bill was approved by the Lower House but amid opposition by some parties in the Upper House, the government cleared some amendments, including the introduction of a provision of bail, to make it more acceptable.

As the bill continued to face resistance in the Rajya Sabha, the government issued an ordinance in September, incorporating the amendments.

An ordinance has a life of six months. But from the day a session begins, it has to be replaced by a bill which should be passed by Parliament within 42 days (six weeks), else it lapses.

The government is at liberty to re-promulgate the ordinance if the bill fails to get through Parliament.

It is a big day for Muslim women with the Lok Sabha set to discuss the bill on instant triple talaq, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Vijay Goel said on Thursday as the government struggled to get consensus on the issue.

It is a big day for Muslim women with the Lok Sabha set to discuss the bill on instant triple talaq, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Vijay Goel said on Thursday as the government struggled to get consensus on the issue. Leaders from various parties spoke on the issue of the proposed law that will make instant triple talaq illegal and void and attract a jail term of three years for the husband. "It is a big day for Muslim women. They have been facing injustice for the past 1,000 years. The Modi government is going to pass the bill against triple talaq. It could have happened in 2017, but certain state Congress governments were opposing the decision. The Cabinet passed an ordinance and now the government is going to free all Muslim women from triple talaq," Goel told reporters outside Parliament. Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge appealed to the government to refrain from interfering in religious matters. "We will discuss the bill. The government shouldn't interfere in religious matters," Kharge said, citing Article 25 of the Constitution on 'freedom of conscience and free profession, practice and propagation of religion'. The government, he said, is interfering in every religious matter. "Hence, we're fighting it. We will ask all parties about the bill, on whether there are problems with it. We will see if sending it to a parliamentary committee is the solution," said the Congress leader. Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress on discussion on #TripleTalaqbill in Lok Sabha today: We will take part in the discussion and keep forward our opinion. We will appeal to the govt that it should not interfere in a religious matter. pic.twitter.com/ThQ4U5fxz5 — ANI (@ANI) December 27, 2018 × CPI leader D Raja told reporters that the bill should be sent to a select committee for further deliberations. According to Shiv Sena MP Arvind Sawant, the husband should not directly be sent to jail. "That needs to be figured out," he said. The Lok Sabha last week decided to take up the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2018, on December 27 after the Congress agreed to participate in the debate. The fresh bill to make the practice of triple talaq among Muslims a penal offence was introduced in Lok Sabha on December 17 to replace an ordinance issued in September. The fresh bill will supersede an earlier bill passed in the Lok Sabha and pending in the Rajya Sabha. The earlier bill was approved by the Lower House but amid opposition by some parties in the Upper House, the government cleared some amendments, including the introduction of a provision of bail, to make it more acceptable. As the bill continued to face resistance in the Rajya Sabha, the government issued an ordinance in September, incorporating the amendments. An ordinance has a life of six months. But from the day a session begins, it has to be replaced by a bill which should be passed by Parliament within 42 days (six weeks), else it lapses. The government is at liberty to re-promulgate the ordinance if the bill fails to get through Parliament.

Big day for Muslim women, government will pass triple talaq bill: Vijay Goel

The Rajya Sabha was Thursday adjourned for the day without transacting any business after a ruckus in the House over issues ranging from construction of a dam on the Cauvery River to violence in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr district.

While slogan-shouting members of Tamil parties -- AIADMK and DMK trooped -- into the well of the House over construction of Mekadatu Dam on Cauvery River, Samajwadi Party and BSP members raised the issue of mob violence in Bulandshahr that left two dead, including an inspector rank police officer.

A couple of members from Andhra Pradesh too were in the well of the House demanding special status for the state.

Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu said nothing that the protesting members were saying would go on record and then adjourned the proceedings for the day.

"As nobody seems to be interested I have no option but to adjourn the House for the day," he said before adjourning the proceedings till Friday.

The trouble started soon after the House mourned the death of its former members N Rajangam and Jai Narain Prasad Nishad and listed papers were presented to the House.

Members of Tamil parties shouted slogans from the well of the House seeking justice for the state over the Cauvery issue while SP and BSP members stood in their places raising the issue of Bulandshahr violence.

TMC leader Derek O'Brien too was up on his feet trying to a raise an issue but could not be heard in the din.

Thursday was the first sitting of the House after the four-day Christmas break.&nbsp;

The Rajya Sabha was Thursday adjourned for the day without transacting any business after a ruckus in the House over issues ranging from construction of a dam on the Cauvery River to violence in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr district.

The Rajya Sabha was Thursday adjourned for the day without transacting any business after a ruckus in the House over issues ranging from construction of a dam on the Cauvery River to violence in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr district. While slogan-shouting members of Tamil parties -- AIADMK and DMK trooped -- into the well of the House over construction of Mekadatu Dam on Cauvery River, Samajwadi Party and BSP members raised the issue of mob violence in Bulandshahr that left two dead, including an inspector rank police officer. A couple of members from Andhra Pradesh too were in the well of the House demanding special status for the state. Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu said nothing that the protesting members were saying would go on record and then adjourned the proceedings for the day. "As nobody seems to be interested I have no option but to adjourn the House for the day," he said before adjourning the proceedings till Friday. The trouble started soon after the House mourned the death of its former members N Rajangam and Jai Narain Prasad Nishad and listed papers were presented to the House. Members of Tamil parties shouted slogans from the well of the House seeking justice for the state over the Cauvery issue while SP and BSP members stood in their places raising the issue of Bulandshahr violence. TMC leader Derek O'Brien too was up on his feet trying to a raise an issue but could not be heard in the din. Thursday was the first sitting of the House after the four-day Christmas break.

Rajya Sabha adjourned for the day without transacting business

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-adjourned-after-ruckus-over-rafale-cauvery-river-issue-185446">Rajya Sabha was adjourned</a> Friday till 2.30 pm as two Tamil parties&nbsp;the AIADMK and DMK continued their protest over the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cauvery-row-hd-kumaraswamy-meeting-pm-a-waste-of-time-says-djayakumar--145439">Cauvery River issue</a>, while the Opposition Congress and treasury benches sparred over the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-probe-needed-in-rafale-fighter-jet-deal-rules-supreme-court-183957">Rafale jet deal</a>.

As soon as the House met, Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu appealed to all members to cooperate in the smooth functioning of the House as the discussion on several urgent matters as well as the passage of important Bills were pending.

Naidu also said that he has admitted most of the notices for discussion on various issues and appealed to political parties for an honourable agreement for order in the House.

However, Naidu's plea went unheeded as AIADMK and DMK members trooped into the well of the House with placards soon after listed papers and reports were tabled. Members of AAP were also seen in the well-carrying placards, demanding an end to the sealing drive in the national capital.

Meanwhile, Naidu asked senior Congress leader Anand Sharma to put forward his views.

Sharma said his party was ready for a discussion on all important issues and demanded an immediate debate on the imposition of President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir under Article 356 of the Constitution.

Sharma also said that his party was ready to discuss the issue of purchase of Rafale jets from French company Dassault but the government should agree for a probe into the deal by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC).

To this, Naidu said the government is also willing to discuss the issue.

Minister of State for Parliament Affairs Vijay Goel said the government is ready to discuss all issues including Rafale but the "opposition is running away".

Goel also informed that he had met Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad and leaders of other parties in an effort to end the stalemate in the House.

As protesting members continued displaying placards, Naidu said he has received suggestions against members who are entering into the well of the House.

"I will not be happy to take action," he said, adding that if action against members would be taken it would be irrespective of party affiliation.

The Chairman later adjourned the House till 2.30 pm.

As per the listed business, the House is scheduled to take up private members' business (resolutions).

The House has witnessed disruptions for the 8th working day over Cauvery, Rafale and other issues.

The Rajya Sabha was adjourned Friday till 2.30 pm as two Tamil parties the AIADMK and DMK continued their protest over the Cauvery River issue, while the Opposition Congress and treasury benches sparred over the Rafale jet deal.

The Rajya Sabha was adjourned Friday till 2.30 pm as two Tamil parties the AIADMK and DMK continued their protest over the Cauvery River issue, while the Opposition Congress and treasury benches sparred over the Rafale jet deal. As soon as the House met, Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu appealed to all members to cooperate in the smooth functioning of the House as the discussion on several urgent matters as well as the passage of important Bills were pending. Naidu also said that he has admitted most of the notices for discussion on various issues and appealed to political parties for an honourable agreement for order in the House. However, Naidu's plea went unheeded as AIADMK and DMK members trooped into the well of the House with placards soon after listed papers and reports were tabled. Members of AAP were also seen in the well-carrying placards, demanding an end to the sealing drive in the national capital. Meanwhile, Naidu asked senior Congress leader Anand Sharma to put forward his views. Sharma said his party was ready for a discussion on all important issues and demanded an immediate debate on the imposition of President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir under Article 356 of the Constitution. Sharma also said that his party was ready to discuss the issue of purchase of Rafale jets from French company Dassault but the government should agree for a probe into the deal by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC). To this, Naidu said the government is also willing to discuss the issue. Minister of State for Parliament Affairs Vijay Goel said the government is ready to discuss all issues including Rafale but the "opposition is running away". Goel also informed that he had met Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad and leaders of other parties in an effort to end the stalemate in the House. As protesting members continued displaying placards, Naidu said he has received suggestions against members who are entering into the well of the House. "I will not be happy to take action," he said, adding that if action against members would be taken it would be irrespective of party affiliation. The Chairman later adjourned the House till 2.30 pm. As per the listed business, the House is scheduled to take up private members' business (resolutions). The House has witnessed disruptions for the 8th working day over Cauvery, Rafale and other issues.

Rajya Sabha  adjourned after AIADMK, DMK protest over Cauvery issue

The Rajya Sabha was Thursday adjourned for the day without transacting any business after ruckus in the House over the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/arun-jaitley-rules-out-setting-up-jpc-on-rafale-deal-184589"> Rafale fighter jet deal</a> and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cauvery-row-hd-kumaraswamy-meeting-pm-a-waste-of-time-says-djayakumar--145439">Cauvery river issue</a>.

Soon after the House met for the day, slogan-shouting members of Tamil parties - AIADMK and DMK -- trooped into the well of the House over the Cauvery issue.

Opposition Congress members also shouted slogans and held placards seeking a probe by the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) into the purchase of Rafale jets from France.

Treasury benches countered Congress members with slogans demanding an apology from Congress President Rahul Gandhi following the Supreme Court clean chit to the Rafale deal.

Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu said all issues can be discussed and members should allow the House to function.

"Many issues are pending. Important bills are there. We have to discuss about (devastation caused by) cyclones (in some states)," he said.

He said a notice has been given on the Rafale deal. "We can discuss Rafale deal too. The government has given in writing that it has no objection to a discussion on Rafale."

Besides discussions on distress in the agriculture sector and price rise are also slated, he said.

"The entire country is agitated about the way the House is functioning. The whole country is watching," he said before adjourning the proceedings for the day.

Earlier, Naidu said he had gone into the records after Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Vijay Goel had on Wednesday demanded that Congress deputy leader Anand Sharma withdraw his remarks about him.

Naidu said Sharma had on December 18, while raising a point of order, stated that Goel had sought an apology from Rahul Gandhi, who is a member of the Lok Sabha, over the Rafale issue.

However, Goel had on December 19 stated that he made no reference to Rahul Gandhi and Anand Sharma should withdraw his remarks, Naidu said, adding he went through the records carefully and found that Goel had not referred to Gandhi.

"Therefore the averment made by Goel is correct," he said.

Sharma said he respects the ruling of the Chair but there were a din and commotion in the House and ruling party members were standing and shouting slogans seeking an apology from Gandhi.

Naidu, however, said the record is straight.

"Statement made by Goel seems to be correct," Naidu said.&nbsp;

The Rajya Sabha was Thursday adjourned for the day without transacting any business after ruckus in the House over the Rafale fighter jet deal and Cauvery river issue.

The Rajya Sabha was Thursday adjourned for the day without transacting any business after ruckus in the House over the Rafale fighter jet deal and Cauvery river issue. Soon after the House met for the day, slogan-shouting members of Tamil parties - AIADMK and DMK -- trooped into the well of the House over the Cauvery issue. Opposition Congress members also shouted slogans and held placards seeking a probe by the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) into the purchase of Rafale jets from France. Treasury benches countered Congress members with slogans demanding an apology from Congress President Rahul Gandhi following the Supreme Court clean chit to the Rafale deal. Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu said all issues can be discussed and members should allow the House to function. "Many issues are pending. Important bills are there. We have to discuss about (devastation caused by) cyclones (in some states)," he said. He said a notice has been given on the Rafale deal. "We can discuss Rafale deal too. The government has given in writing that it has no objection to a discussion on Rafale." Besides discussions on distress in the agriculture sector and price rise are also slated, he said. "The entire country is agitated about the way the House is functioning. The whole country is watching," he said before adjourning the proceedings for the day. Earlier, Naidu said he had gone into the records after Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Vijay Goel had on Wednesday demanded that Congress deputy leader Anand Sharma withdraw his remarks about him. Naidu said Sharma had on December 18, while raising a point of order, stated that Goel had sought an apology from Rahul Gandhi, who is a member of the Lok Sabha, over the Rafale issue. However, Goel had on December 19 stated that he made no reference to Rahul Gandhi and Anand Sharma should withdraw his remarks, Naidu said, adding he went through the records carefully and found that Goel had not referred to Gandhi. "Therefore the averment made by Goel is correct," he said. Sharma said he respects the ruling of the Chair but there were a din and commotion in the House and ruling party members were standing and shouting slogans seeking an apology from Gandhi. Naidu, however, said the record is straight. "Statement made by Goel seems to be correct," Naidu said.

Rajya Sabha adjourned after ruckus over Rafale, Cauvery river issue

The Supreme Court order on the Rafale jet deal issue Friday rocked the Rajya Sabha which witnessed intense sloganeering by the ruling BJP and opposition Congress members leading to adjournment of House proceedings.

Amid noisy protests, Leader of the House and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley was heard saying that the Opposition has been demanding a debate on the jet deal and so the question hour should be suspended to take up the issue.

Besides the two major parties, members of the AIADMK and the Samajwadi Party too raised slogans in support of their respective demands.

No sooner the House assembled for the Zero hour, members of the Samajwadi Party raised slogans relating to the recent violence in UP's Bulandshahar district while AIADMK members trooped into the well over the Cauvery river water issue.

Buoyed by the clean chit given by the Supreme Court on the Rafale jet deal, members of treasury benches were heard raising slogans demanding an apology from Congress President Rahul Gandhi for his alleged lies on the issue.

Congress members too entered the Well of the House to demand a probe by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) into the purchase of jets from the French company Dassault.

Amidst uproar, the members were heard raising slogans -"We want JPC" and "Chowikdar Chor Hai".

BJP members were heard shouting slogans like 'Rahul Gandhi Jhootha Hai' (Rahul Gandhi is a liar).

The uproar started as soon as the proceedings began following which Deputy Chairman Harivansh first adjourned the House till 1130 hours.

However, as the protests intensified, he adjourned the Rajya Sabha till Monday after his repeated attempts to bring order in the House failed.

Before adjourning the House for the day, Harivansh tried to run the Zero Hour proceedings smoothly and some of the members even read out mentions amid uproar.

Unlike other days, there was ruckus in the House even when ministers were laying listed paper on the table of the House.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court order on the Rafale jet deal issue Friday rocked the Rajya Sabha which witnessed intense sloganeering by the ruling BJP and opposition Congress members leading to adjournment of House proceedings.

The Supreme Court order on the Rafale jet deal issue Friday rocked the Rajya Sabha which witnessed intense sloganeering by the ruling BJP and opposition Congress members leading to adjournment of House proceedings. Amid noisy protests, Leader of the House and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley was heard saying that the Opposition has been demanding a debate on the jet deal and so the question hour should be suspended to take up the issue. Besides the two major parties, members of the AIADMK and the Samajwadi Party too raised slogans in support of their respective demands. No sooner the House assembled for the Zero hour, members of the Samajwadi Party raised slogans relating to the recent violence in UP's Bulandshahar district while AIADMK members trooped into the well over the Cauvery river water issue. Buoyed by the clean chit given by the Supreme Court on the Rafale jet deal, members of treasury benches were heard raising slogans demanding an apology from Congress President Rahul Gandhi for his alleged lies on the issue. Congress members too entered the Well of the House to demand a probe by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) into the purchase of jets from the French company Dassault. Amidst uproar, the members were heard raising slogans -"We want JPC" and "Chowikdar Chor Hai". BJP members were heard shouting slogans like 'Rahul Gandhi Jhootha Hai' (Rahul Gandhi is a liar). The uproar started as soon as the proceedings began following which Deputy Chairman Harivansh first adjourned the House till 1130 hours. However, as the protests intensified, he adjourned the Rajya Sabha till Monday after his repeated attempts to bring order in the House failed. Before adjourning the House for the day, Harivansh tried to run the Zero Hour proceedings smoothly and some of the members even read out mentions amid uproar. Unlike other days, there was ruckus in the House even when ministers were laying listed paper on the table of the House.

Rafale deal issue rocks Rajya Sabha; House adjourned till Monday

The Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day on Thursday after two brief adjournments during the question hour following the ruckus created by opposition party members over several issues including Rafale deal, demand for special status to Andhra Pradesh and Cauvery river water.

As soon as the Question Hour began after paying tributes to martyrs of the 2001 Parliament attack, members from the Congress, TDP and AIADMK rushed to the Well raising slogans.&nbsp;

Demanding a law on construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya, Shiv Sena members were seen holding placards in the aisle.&nbsp;

TDP member Venkateshwara Rao (Babu) used a mike installed in the Well for the oath of a new member to prop up a poster seeking special status for Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;

A Lok Sabha secretariat staffer tried to convince him not to use the mike. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Narendra Singh Tomar too tried to convince him to keep down the mike.&nbsp;

The TDP member's action invited the ire of Speaker Sumitra Mahajan who warned him that he will be named.&nbsp;

Once a member is named, he or she has to leave the House chamber.&nbsp;

The Speaker then adjourned the House for nearly 10 minutes till 11.20 AM.&nbsp;

When the House assembled again, Mahajan reminded the members that they can raise issues under various rules.&nbsp;

Apparently referring to the Lok Sabha polls due in 2019, she said it was a "crucial time" and members should use it to raise issues related to the public.&nbsp;

She said Lok Sabha is for all states and regions and all should get a chance to raise their respective issues.&nbsp;

But opposition members remained unconvinced and returned to the Well.&nbsp;

Members of the Shiv Sena were seated on the front rows but did not raise slogans.&nbsp;

Members from TMC, Left and NCP were also seated on their benches.&nbsp;

As the bedlam continued, the House was adjourned for nearly 30 minutes till noon.&nbsp;

(With inputs from news agencies)

The Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day on Thursday after two brief adjournments during the question hour following the ruckus created by opposition party members over several issues including Rafale deal, demand for special status to Andhra Pradesh and Cauvery river water.

The Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day on Thursday after two brief adjournments during the question hour following the ruckus created by opposition party members over several issues including Rafale deal, demand for special status to Andhra Pradesh and Cauvery river water. As soon as the Question Hour began after paying tributes to martyrs of the 2001 Parliament attack, members from the Congress, TDP and AIADMK rushed to the Well raising slogans. Demanding a law on construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya, Shiv Sena members were seen holding placards in the aisle. TDP member Venkateshwara Rao (Babu) used a mike installed in the Well for the oath of a new member to prop up a poster seeking special status for Andhra Pradesh. A Lok Sabha secretariat staffer tried to convince him not to use the mike. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Narendra Singh Tomar too tried to convince him to keep down the mike. The TDP member's action invited the ire of Speaker Sumitra Mahajan who warned him that he will be named. Once a member is named, he or she has to leave the House chamber. The Speaker then adjourned the House for nearly 10 minutes till 11.20 AM. When the House assembled again, Mahajan reminded the members that they can raise issues under various rules. Apparently referring to the Lok Sabha polls due in 2019, she said it was a "crucial time" and members should use it to raise issues related to the public. She said Lok Sabha is for all states and regions and all should get a chance to raise their respective issues. But opposition members remained unconvinced and returned to the Well. Members of the Shiv Sena were seated on the front rows but did not raise slogans. Members from TMC, Left and NCP were also seated on their benches. As the bedlam continued, the House was adjourned for nearly 30 minutes till noon. (With inputs from news agencies)

Lok Sabha adjourned for the day after opposition protests over Rafale deal, Cauvery river water

Senior Goa Congress leader and former Rajya Sabha MP Shantaram Naik died after suffering a heart attack on Saturday, party officials said.

Naik was taken to a private hospital in nearby Margao town from his residence here after he complained of uneasiness. At the hospital, he was declared brought dead, Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) General Secretary Altinho Gomes told.

He was declared dead at&nbsp;7 am, he said.

The veteran Congressman, who also served as chief of the state unit of the party, was 72 and is survived by wife and a son.

A multiple-time Member of Parliament, Naik was one of the tallest leaders of the Congress in Goa. Naik was elected to the Lok Sabha from the South Goa constituency in the 1984 general election.

He actively supported the demand for statehood to Goa which was fulfilled in 1987.

Naik represented Goa in the Rajya Sabha for two consecutive terms -- 2005-2011 and 2011-2017. However, in July 2017, he lost the election to the Upper House of Parliament to BJP candidate Vinay Tendulkar.

In March this year, Naik resigned as president of the GPCC to pave the way for the younger generation to take the reins of the party.

Naik took over as GPCC chief in July 2017, months after the Congress failed to form a government in the coastal state despite emerging as the single largest party.

He was replaced as the state unit chief by Girish Raya Chodankar in April.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, among other leaders, condoled the death of Naik.

Naidu said the ex-Congress MP was active in Parliament and made good contribution to debates in the House.

"I convey my heartfelt condolences on the sad demise of Shri Shantaram Naik, former Member of Parliament from Goa and former Goa Congress President.

"He was one of the most active MPs and made good contribution to parliamentary debates. "I pray for his eternal peace," Naidu said in a tweet.

Gandhi, on hearing the news of the demise, called up the family members of Naik and conveyed his condolences to them, Chodankar said.

Gandhi, who spoke to Naik's wife and son, hailed the role played by the Congress veteran in the battle for Goa's statehood.

"I am sorry to hear about the passing away of Shri Shantaram Naik, former Goa Congress Chief, MP and senior Congress leader, who played an important role in the battle for Goa's statehood.

"My condolences to his family in their time of grief. May his soul rest in peace," the Congress chief tweeted.

Senior Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala said Naik was an important leader of the party in Goa.

"Shocked and saddened by the passing away of Shantaram Naik ji, a pillar of indomitable strength for Congress party in Goa.

"In this hour of grief, I express my solidarity with his family, friends and supporters and pray for the departed soul," Surjewala tweeted.

Chodankar said Naik was a mentor to the young Congressmen.

"It is a shocking news for us. We have lost a guide in the form of him. He had mentored so many youths and inspired them to join Congress party. It is a big loss for us," said Chodankar.

The veteran Congressman, who also served as chief of the state unit of the party, was 72 and is survived by wife and a son

Senior Goa Congress leader and former Rajya Sabha MP Shantaram Naik died after suffering a heart attack on Saturday, party officials said. Naik was taken to a private hospital in nearby Margao town from his residence here after he complained of uneasiness. At the hospital, he was declared brought dead, Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) General Secretary Altinho Gomes told. He was declared dead at 7 am, he said. The veteran Congressman, who also served as chief of the state unit of the party, was 72 and is survived by wife and a son. A multiple-time Member of Parliament, Naik was one of the tallest leaders of the Congress in Goa. Naik was elected to the Lok Sabha from the South Goa constituency in the 1984 general election. He actively supported the demand for statehood to Goa which was fulfilled in 1987. Naik represented Goa in the Rajya Sabha for two consecutive terms -- 2005-2011 and 2011-2017. However, in July 2017, he lost the election to the Upper House of Parliament to BJP candidate Vinay Tendulkar. In March this year, Naik resigned as president of the GPCC to pave the way for the younger generation to take the reins of the party. Naik took over as GPCC chief in July 2017, months after the Congress failed to form a government in the coastal state despite emerging as the single largest party. He was replaced as the state unit chief by Girish Raya Chodankar in April. Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, among other leaders, condoled the death of Naik. Naidu said the ex-Congress MP was active in Parliament and made good contribution to debates in the House. "I convey my heartfelt condolences on the sad demise of Shri Shantaram Naik, former Member of Parliament from Goa and former Goa Congress President. "He was one of the most active MPs and made good contribution to parliamentary debates. "I pray for his eternal peace," Naidu said in a tweet. Gandhi, on hearing the news of the demise, called up the family members of Naik and conveyed his condolences to them, Chodankar said. Gandhi, who spoke to Naik's wife and son, hailed the role played by the Congress veteran in the battle for Goa's statehood. "I am sorry to hear about the passing away of Shri Shantaram Naik, former Goa Congress Chief, MP and senior Congress leader, who played an important role in the battle for Goa's statehood. "My condolences to his family in their time of grief. May his soul rest in peace," the Congress chief tweeted. Senior Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala said Naik was an important leader of the party in Goa. "Shocked and saddened by the passing away of Shantaram Naik ji, a pillar of indomitable strength for Congress party in Goa. "In this hour of grief, I express my solidarity with his family, friends and supporters and pray for the departed soul," Surjewala tweeted. Chodankar said Naik was a mentor to the young Congressmen. "It is a shocking news for us. We have lost a guide in the form of him. He had mentored so many youths and inspired them to join Congress party. It is a big loss for us," said Chodankar.

Former Goa Congress chief Shantaram Naik dies

The Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) on Saturday downplayed the protest among party workers over its decision to forgo a Rajya Sabha seat in favour of the Kerala Congress (M), which returned to the UDF coalition after a gap of two years.

Addressing a press conference at the party headquarters here, KPCC president MM Hassan said the protest over the decision was natural in a democratic party but cautioned that it should not cross limits.

He said the party leadership also understood the workers' sentiments and their pain over the decision.

"We are also pained by the decision... But it was taken with a view to strengthen the party-led UDF and democratic forces to take on the BJP and the LDF in the state," Hassan said.

The Congress party would issue a whip asking its MLAs to vote for Jose K Mani, the RS candidate of the KM Mani-led KC(M).

However, the KPCC chief admitted that the KC(M) insisted on the seat as a condition for its re-entry into the UDF fold.

Meanwhile, rumblings in the party over the RS seat issue continued with former KPCC president V M Sudheeran saying that party workers felt that they were being cheated.

The senior leader also alleged that the decision lacked transparency.

The seat is currently held by Rajya Sabha deputy chairman P J Kurian of the Congress, who is set to retire on&nbsp;July 1.

Two young Congress MLAs, V T Balaram and K S Sabarinathan, who were among those who asked AICC chief Rahul Gandhi to reconsider the decision, expressed their displeasure again.

Balaram, in a Facebook post, called for a leadership change in the party and said people with vision and those who understood the pulse of the grassroot-level workers were the need of the hour.

The decision to field Jose Mani, son of K M Mani, as the candidate was taken at a KC(M) meeting held last night in Pala, near Kottayam, hours after the party rejoined the UDF.

Jose K Mani is currently the party's lone member in the Lok Sabha from the Kottayam parliamentary constituency.

MM Hassan said the protest over the decision was natural in a democratic party but cautioned that it should not cross limits

The Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) on Saturday downplayed the protest among party workers over its decision to forgo a Rajya Sabha seat in favour of the Kerala Congress (M), which returned to the UDF coalition after a gap of two years. Addressing a press conference at the party headquarters here, KPCC president MM Hassan said the protest over the decision was natural in a democratic party but cautioned that it should not cross limits. He said the party leadership also understood the workers' sentiments and their pain over the decision. "We are also pained by the decision... But it was taken with a view to strengthen the party-led UDF and democratic forces to take on the BJP and the LDF in the state," Hassan said. The Congress party would issue a whip asking its MLAs to vote for Jose K Mani, the RS candidate of the KM Mani-led KC(M). However, the KPCC chief admitted that the KC(M) insisted on the seat as a condition for its re-entry into the UDF fold. Meanwhile, rumblings in the party over the RS seat issue continued with former KPCC president V M Sudheeran saying that party workers felt that they were being cheated. The senior leader also alleged that the decision lacked transparency. The seat is currently held by Rajya Sabha deputy chairman P J Kurian of the Congress, who is set to retire on July 1. Two young Congress MLAs, V T Balaram and K S Sabarinathan, who were among those who asked AICC chief Rahul Gandhi to reconsider the decision, expressed their displeasure again. Balaram, in a Facebook post, called for a leadership change in the party and said people with vision and those who understood the pulse of the grassroot-level workers were the need of the hour. The decision to field Jose Mani, son of K M Mani, as the candidate was taken at a KC(M) meeting held last night in Pala, near Kottayam, hours after the party rejoined the UDF. Jose K Mani is currently the party's lone member in the Lok Sabha from the Kottayam parliamentary constituency.

Kerala Congress downplays protest over Rajya Sabha seat

The CPI today said Binoy Viswam will be its candidate for the Rajya Sabha from Kerala.

"The National Secretariat of the Communist Party of India has accepted the recommendation of the Kerala State Council and announces Binoy Viswam as the CPI candidate for the Rajya Sabha from Kerala," party general secretary S Sudhakar Reddy said in a statement.

Viswam, a minister in the previous LDF government in Kerala, started his political carrier as a student leader and worked as general secretary of the AISF, the student wing of the CPI.

He was known for his efficiency as a minister and has been elected as one of the secretaries of the CPI in the recently held 23rd Party Congress, Reddy said.

The Election Commission had announced polls to three Rajya Sabha seats from Kerala last month. These include the one held by Upper House Deputy Chairman P J Kurien. It will fall vacant on July 1.

The election would be held on June 21, the poll panel had said.

Kurien (Congress), Joy Abraham (Kerala Congress-M) and C P Narayanan (CPI-M) are retiring on July 1.

Of the nine RS seats in the state, three each are held by Congress and CPI (M) and one each by Kerala Congress-M, IUML and an Independent member.&nbsp

Viswam, a minister in the previous LDF government in Kerala, started his political carrier as a student leader and worked as general secretary of the AISF, the student wing of the CPI

The CPI today said Binoy Viswam will be its candidate for the Rajya Sabha from Kerala. "The National Secretariat of the Communist Party of India has accepted the recommendation of the Kerala State Council and announces Binoy Viswam as the CPI candidate for the Rajya Sabha from Kerala," party general secretary S Sudhakar Reddy said in a statement. Viswam, a minister in the previous LDF government in Kerala, started his political carrier as a student leader and worked as general secretary of the AISF, the student wing of the CPI. He was known for his efficiency as a minister and has been elected as one of the secretaries of the CPI in the recently held 23rd Party Congress, Reddy said. The Election Commission had announced polls to three Rajya Sabha seats from Kerala last month. These include the one held by Upper House Deputy Chairman P J Kurien. It will fall vacant on July 1. The election would be held on June 21, the poll panel had said. Kurien (Congress), Joy Abraham (Kerala Congress-M) and C P Narayanan (CPI-M) are retiring on July 1. Of the nine RS seats in the state, three each are held by Congress and CPI (M) and one each by Kerala Congress-M, IUML and an Independent member.

Binoy Viswam is CPI candidate for Rajya Sabha from Kerala

Congress leader Ahmed Patel told the Gujarat High Court on Wednesday that there was no merit in a plea challenging his election to the Rajya Sabha as MLAs are supposed to vote for their party candidates according to a Supreme Court judgement.&nbsp;

After the EC invalidated the votes of Congress rebels Raghavjee Patel and Bholabhai Gohel for showing their ballot papers to the BJP’s polling agent in the presence of BJP president Amit Shah, Patel was declared the winner along with Shah and Union minister Smriti Irani in the Rajya Sabha polls held in August last year.

BJP leader Balwantsinh Rajput, who lost to Patel in the Rajya Sabha elections, had filed an election petition, challenging the decision of the Election Commission to invalidate two votes as demanded by the Congress.

According to him, if these two votes had been counted, he would have defeated Patel. He had argued that a whip issued by the Leader of Opposition in the Assembly asking all Congress MLAs to vote for Patel was “threatening” and amounted to exercise of “undue influence” on voters. “As per the SC’s 2006 judgement… All party members are obliged to vote for the party (in Rajya Sabha election)… So, there is no question of undue influence on MLAs,” Kapil Sibal argued before Justice Bela Trivedi, appearing for Patel.

Rajput’s lawyer Advocate Nirupam Nanavati told the court that there was no need to dismiss the petition — as demanded by Patel — only because the copy served on the respondent was not attested. This can be corrected easily, Rajput’s lawyer said, accusing Patel of adopting a “dilatory tactic”. Sibal had said the petition served on the respondent (Ahmed Patel) was not the way it should be under the law, as it was not attested as a “true copy”. Rajput’s petition also alleges that Patel offered “bribe” to MLAs after taking them to resorts in Bengaluru.

BJP leader Balwantsinh Rajput, who lost to Patel in the Rajya Sabha elections, had filed an election petition, challenging the decision of the Election Commission to invalidate two votes as demanded by the Congress.

Congress leader Ahmed Patel told the Gujarat High Court on Wednesday that there was no merit in a plea challenging his election to the Rajya Sabha as MLAs are supposed to vote for their party candidates according to a Supreme Court judgement. After the EC invalidated the votes of Congress rebels Raghavjee Patel and Bholabhai Gohel for showing their ballot papers to the BJP’s polling agent in the presence of BJP president Amit Shah, Patel was declared the winner along with Shah and Union minister Smriti Irani in the Rajya Sabha polls held in August last year. BJP leader Balwantsinh Rajput, who lost to Patel in the Rajya Sabha elections, had filed an election petition, challenging the decision of the Election Commission to invalidate two votes as demanded by the Congress. According to him, if these two votes had been counted, he would have defeated Patel. He had argued that a whip issued by the Leader of Opposition in the Assembly asking all Congress MLAs to vote for Patel was “threatening” and amounted to exercise of “undue influence” on voters. “As per the SC’s 2006 judgement… All party members are obliged to vote for the party (in Rajya Sabha election)… So, there is no question of undue influence on MLAs,” Kapil Sibal argued before Justice Bela Trivedi, appearing for Patel. Rajput’s lawyer Advocate Nirupam Nanavati told the court that there was no need to dismiss the petition — as demanded by Patel — only because the copy served on the respondent was not attested. This can be corrected easily, Rajput’s lawyer said, accusing Patel of adopting a “dilatory tactic”. Sibal had said the petition served on the respondent (Ahmed Patel) was not the way it should be under the law, as it was not attested as a “true copy”. Rajput’s petition also alleges that Patel offered “bribe” to MLAs after taking them to resorts in Bengaluru.

Rajya Sabha polls: MLAs obliged to vote for party, Ahmed Patel tells Gujarat HC

After a washout of the budget session of Parliament that ended Friday, the BJP and the Congress blamed each other for the impasse and announced countrywide fasts as protest even as Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the opposition party of taking parliamentary proceedings "to a new low".

While Modi announced that NDA MPs would hold a fast on April 12 to protest the opposition's behaviour in Parliament, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi told party workers to hold a fast on April 9 to "expose" the BJP's "lies" on the issue.

Addressing BJP MPs on the party's foundation day, Modi kept the Congress in his line of fire and spelt out an exercise by party lawmakers and ministers for reaching out to villages with substantial Dalit and tribal population through implementation of his government's seven key welfare schemes.

Modi at the BJP parliamentary party meeting accused the Congress of paralysing Parliament proceedings during the Budget Session that ended Friday, and said it was "throttling" democracy and "abusing" people's mandate.

Briefing reporters on the meeting, Union minister Ananth Kumar quoted the prime minister as saying that while the BJP's strength has been rising, the opposition, especially the Congress, has resorted to "divisive and negative" politics. 
Parliamentary proceedings stooped to a new low due to the conduct of the Congress, Modi said.

All BJP MPs will observe a day long fast on April 12 to protest the opposition's conduct in Parliament, he said.

On the other hand, Gandhi directed party workers to organise nationwide fast to protect and promote harmony among various sections on April 9.

In a letter to all PCC chiefs, party general secretary Ashok Gehlot said "peace and harmony have been embodied in the soul of this country and the responsibility to uphold it lies with the Congress".

He said what has happened on April 2 during Bharat bandh was very unfortunate and it was very dangerous for the social fabric of this country and blamed BJP-ruled Centre and state governments for not initiating steps to curb violence neither to protect the fraternity.

"Therefore, it becomes even more important for the Congress to lead the nation in tough time," he said.

At the AICC briefing, senior party leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Anand Sharma hit back at the BJP and held it responsible for not letting Parliament function and termed as a "gimmick" and "drama" the move by NDA MPs to forgo their salary for 23 days when Parliament did not function.

The Congress leaders said their party MPs had met Rajya Sabha chairman requesting him that the house should not be prorogued so that it can be reconvened for two more weeks to discuss issues of national importance as they could not be taken up due to disruptions.

Sharma alleged that the BJP and RSS were spreading hatred in society through their "divisive" agenda. The Congress "will expose it" and their chief Rahul Gandhi has appealed to the public to maintain peace and harmony in society, he said.

Kharge also alleged that it was the government and its allies which were disrupting the Lok Sabha and questioned why members causing disturbance were not suspended and the no-confidence motions taken up for discussion.

The government and its allies were "orchestrating" disruptions and blaming the Congress for it, he alleged.

"Government encouraged its allies to disrupt proceedings which resulted in the Houses being adjourned day after day in the session, within seconds of the ruckus created at government's behest."

"We gave prior notice under the rules of Parliament. The Government is sole responsible for disruption of parliament and now 'the thief is blaming the cop'", Kharge said.

Sharma said, "one thing we want to make absolutely clear with truth and force of facts at our command that Congress is not responsible for the disruption. We wanted debate, we wanted accountability and we shall continue to demand that."

"Today we have told the Chairman of Rajya Sabha to inform the Government that we are willing, do not prorogue the Houses they have been adjourned only sine die. Reconvene the Parliament for two weeks or ten days to debate these five issues and to legislate, bring the important Laws.

"We have said the ball is in their court. This is what we have conveyed today and we are informing you," he said.&nbsp

While Modi announced that NDA MPs would hold a fast on April 12 to protest the opposition's behaviour in Parliament, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi told party workers to hold a fast on April 9 to 'expose' the BJP's 'lies' on the issue

After a washout of the budget session of Parliament that ended Friday, the BJP and the Congress blamed each other for the impasse and announced countrywide fasts as protest even as Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the opposition party of taking parliamentary proceedings "to a new low". While Modi announced that NDA MPs would hold a fast on April 12 to protest the opposition's behaviour in Parliament, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi told party workers to hold a fast on April 9 to "expose" the BJP's "lies" on the issue. Addressing BJP MPs on the party's foundation day, Modi kept the Congress in his line of fire and spelt out an exercise by party lawmakers and ministers for reaching out to villages with substantial Dalit and tribal population through implementation of his government's seven key welfare schemes. Modi at the BJP parliamentary party meeting accused the Congress of paralysing Parliament proceedings during the Budget Session that ended Friday, and said it was "throttling" democracy and "abusing" people's mandate. Briefing reporters on the meeting, Union minister Ananth Kumar quoted the prime minister as saying that while the BJP's strength has been rising, the opposition, especially the Congress, has resorted to "divisive and negative" politics. Parliamentary proceedings stooped to a new low due to the conduct of the Congress, Modi said. All BJP MPs will observe a day long fast on April 12 to protest the opposition's conduct in Parliament, he said. On the other hand, Gandhi directed party workers to organise nationwide fast to protect and promote harmony among various sections on April 9. In a letter to all PCC chiefs, party general secretary Ashok Gehlot said "peace and harmony have been embodied in the soul of this country and the responsibility to uphold it lies with the Congress". He said what has happened on April 2 during Bharat bandh was very unfortunate and it was very dangerous for the social fabric of this country and blamed BJP-ruled Centre and state governments for not initiating steps to curb violence neither to protect the fraternity. "Therefore, it becomes even more important for the Congress to lead the nation in tough time," he said. At the AICC briefing, senior party leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Anand Sharma hit back at the BJP and held it responsible for not letting Parliament function and termed as a "gimmick" and "drama" the move by NDA MPs to forgo their salary for 23 days when Parliament did not function. The Congress leaders said their party MPs had met Rajya Sabha chairman requesting him that the house should not be prorogued so that it can be reconvened for two more weeks to discuss issues of national importance as they could not be taken up due to disruptions. Sharma alleged that the BJP and RSS were spreading hatred in society through their "divisive" agenda. The Congress "will expose it" and their chief Rahul Gandhi has appealed to the public to maintain peace and harmony in society, he said. Kharge also alleged that it was the government and its allies which were disrupting the Lok Sabha and questioned why members causing disturbance were not suspended and the no-confidence motions taken up for discussion. The government and its allies were "orchestrating" disruptions and blaming the Congress for it, he alleged. "Government encouraged its allies to disrupt proceedings which resulted in the Houses being adjourned day after day in the session, within seconds of the ruckus created at government's behest." "We gave prior notice under the rules of Parliament. The Government is sole responsible for disruption of parliament and now 'the thief is blaming the cop'", Kharge said. Sharma said, "one thing we want to make absolutely clear with truth and force of facts at our command that Congress is not responsible for the disruption. We wanted debate, we wanted accountability and we shall continue to demand that." "Today we have told the Chairman of Rajya Sabha to inform the Government that we are willing, do not prorogue the Houses they have been adjourned only sine die. Reconvene the Parliament for two weeks or ten days to debate these five issues and to legislate, bring the important Laws. "We have said the ball is in their court. This is what we have conveyed today and we are informing you," he said.

Congress, BJP blame each other for Parliament logjam, announce fasts in protest

Disruptions led to loss of more than 127 hours of the Budget session in the Lok Sabha with just about 0.58 per cent of starred questions answered during 29 sittings before the House adjourned sine die on Friday.

Protests by members from various parties on diverse issues marred proceedings almost every day during the two-phase Budget session. The second leg of the session, that started on March 5, had 22 sittings that were mostly disrupted.

In her summary report, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said the House functioned for a total of 34 hours and 5 minutes during the 29 sittings.

A total of 127 hours and 45 minutes were affected due to "interruptions and forced adjournments". Around 9 hours and 47 minutes went in to transact urgent government business, Mahajan said.

According to her, out of the 580 starred questions, answers were given to 17 of them in the floor of the House and this translates to "0.58" questions being answered on an average every day.

Written replies for remaining starred questions and 6,670 unstarred questions were tabled in the House.

Just five bills were passed and five were introduced during the Budget session in the Lok Sabha.

'The Finance Bill 2018', 'The Payment of Gratuity (Amendment) Bill, 2017' and 'The Specific Relief (Amendment) Bill, 2017' were among those bills that were passed.

Discussions on Presidential address took place for 10 hours and 43 minutes while that on Budget went on for 12 hours and 13 minutes.

"This House is a sacred platform for members to raise issues related to public interest and public welfare," Mahajan said even as she emphasised that they need to keep in mind the larger interest of the country.

"I have always tried that members who have given notices raise their issues in the House...," she said.

She also thanked all parties for their support in organising the National Legislators' Conference on March 10 and 11.

Ministers gave 43 statements on various important issues and 1,185 papers were tabled.

Under Rule 377, which pertains to urgent matters of public interest, members raised 238 issues.

A total of 61 reports by various department-related Standing Committees were presented during the Budget session.&nbsp

Disruptions led to loss of more than 127 hours of the Budget session in the Lok Sabha with just about 0.58 per cent of starred questions answered during 29 sittings before the House adjourned sine die on Friday

Disruptions led to loss of more than 127 hours of the Budget session in the Lok Sabha with just about 0.58 per cent of starred questions answered during 29 sittings before the House adjourned sine die on Friday. Protests by members from various parties on diverse issues marred proceedings almost every day during the two-phase Budget session. The second leg of the session, that started on March 5, had 22 sittings that were mostly disrupted. In her summary report, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said the House functioned for a total of 34 hours and 5 minutes during the 29 sittings. A total of 127 hours and 45 minutes were affected due to "interruptions and forced adjournments". Around 9 hours and 47 minutes went in to transact urgent government business, Mahajan said. According to her, out of the 580 starred questions, answers were given to 17 of them in the floor of the House and this translates to "0.58" questions being answered on an average every day. Written replies for remaining starred questions and 6,670 unstarred questions were tabled in the House. Just five bills were passed and five were introduced during the Budget session in the Lok Sabha. 'The Finance Bill 2018', 'The Payment of Gratuity (Amendment) Bill, 2017' and 'The Specific Relief (Amendment) Bill, 2017' were among those bills that were passed. Discussions on Presidential address took place for 10 hours and 43 minutes while that on Budget went on for 12 hours and 13 minutes. "This House is a sacred platform for members to raise issues related to public interest and public welfare," Mahajan said even as she emphasised that they need to keep in mind the larger interest of the country. "I have always tried that members who have given notices raise their issues in the House...," she said. She also thanked all parties for their support in organising the National Legislators' Conference on March 10 and 11. Ministers gave 43 statements on various important issues and 1,185 papers were tabled. Under Rule 377, which pertains to urgent matters of public interest, members raised 238 issues. A total of 61 reports by various department-related Standing Committees were presented during the Budget session.

Lok Sabha lost over 127 hours due to disruptions in Budget session

The Rajya Sabha was today adjourned till 2 pm without transacting any legislative business after the Congress-led opposition created an uproar over various issues including softening of provisions of the SC/ST Atrocities Act.

Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu called the protests, which have not allowed any business to be transacted since the House met on March 5, as a "murder of democracy".

No sooner had 12 new members taken an oath of office that opposition members trooped into the well of the House displaying placards in support of their demand and shouting slogans.

While MPs belonging to the Congress and the BSP were protesting against softening of certain provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, Tamil parties - DMK and AIADMK demanded immediate constitution of the Cauvery Water Management Board for the division of river water between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

Members of the TDP and KVP Ramachandra Rao of the Congress held placards demanding special status for Andhra Pradesh.

"Narendra Modi - Dalit Virodhi" (Narendra Modi is anti- Dalit), shouted Congress and BSP members. They also shouted, "Dalit virodhi yeh sarkar, nahi chalegi, nahi chalegi" (This anti-Dalit government will not be tolerated).

TDP MPs raised 'Save Andhra" slogans.

Naidu expressed displeasure over repeated disruptions since Parliament met early last month for the second half of the Budget session.

He requested members to return to their seats and at least pass the anti-corruption bill.

"You want these kinds of ugly scenes to be seen every day by people," he said referring to slogan shouting and placards trying to block his view.

"What is the difference between people shouting slogans outside and here," he asked. "You have not transacted any business including important legislations. People want legislations."

He said a handful of people were obstructing proceedings over their agenda. 
Naidu said any issue be it banking scam, Cauvery waters, Andhra special package, Dalit act or Kashmir issue can be discussed.

Its unfortunate that debate on these issues is not happening despite the Chair permitting it and the government willing to discuss it, he said.

"You are testing the patience of the people. This is not good for democracy. This is murdering democracy," he said. "Entire country is agitated, depressed."

"Have some discussion and allow some bills to be passed," he requested an unrelenting opposition.

He noted that just two days were left before the session ends on Friday and it was imperative that some legislative business was transacted today and tomorrow.

With the slogan-shouting continuing, he adjourned proceedings till 2 pm.

Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu called the protests, which have not allowed any business to be transacted since the House met on March 5, as a "murder of democracy"

The Rajya Sabha was today adjourned till 2 pm without transacting any legislative business after the Congress-led opposition created an uproar over various issues including softening of provisions of the SC/ST Atrocities Act. Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu called the protests, which have not allowed any business to be transacted since the House met on March 5, as a "murder of democracy". No sooner had 12 new members taken an oath of office that opposition members trooped into the well of the House displaying placards in support of their demand and shouting slogans. While MPs belonging to the Congress and the BSP were protesting against softening of certain provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, Tamil parties - DMK and AIADMK demanded immediate constitution of the Cauvery Water Management Board for the division of river water between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Members of the TDP and KVP Ramachandra Rao of the Congress held placards demanding special status for Andhra Pradesh. "Narendra Modi - Dalit Virodhi" (Narendra Modi is anti- Dalit), shouted Congress and BSP members. They also shouted, "Dalit virodhi yeh sarkar, nahi chalegi, nahi chalegi" (This anti-Dalit government will not be tolerated). TDP MPs raised 'Save Andhra" slogans. Naidu expressed displeasure over repeated disruptions since Parliament met early last month for the second half of the Budget session. He requested members to return to their seats and at least pass the anti-corruption bill. "You want these kinds of ugly scenes to be seen every day by people," he said referring to slogan shouting and placards trying to block his view. "What is the difference between people shouting slogans outside and here," he asked. "You have not transacted any business including important legislations. People want legislations." He said a handful of people were obstructing proceedings over their agenda. Naidu said any issue be it banking scam, Cauvery waters, Andhra special package, Dalit act or Kashmir issue can be discussed. Its unfortunate that debate on these issues is not happening despite the Chair permitting it and the government willing to discuss it, he said. "You are testing the patience of the people. This is not good for democracy. This is murdering democracy," he said. "Entire country is agitated, depressed." "Have some discussion and allow some bills to be passed," he requested an unrelenting opposition. He noted that just two days were left before the session ends on Friday and it was imperative that some legislative business was transacted today and tomorrow. With the slogan-shouting continuing, he adjourned proceedings till 2 pm.

Rajya Sabha adjourned till 2 pm following uproar

The Rajya Sabha today witnessed an unprecedented 11 adjournments amid a clash between the government and the opposition over how an anti-graft bill should be passed and continued disruptions that prompted the Chair to lament the “murder of democracy”. While the House was first adjourned till 2 PM within 20 minutes after it met at 11 AM due to unrelenting opposition protests, it saw ten adjournments in a row in a space of three hours, after it re-convened in the afternoon.

Chairman Venkaiah Naidu called the protests, which have not allowed any business to be transacted since the House met on March 5, as a “murder of democracy”.

Naidu expressed displeasure over repeated disruptions since Parliament met early last month for the second half of the Budget session. He requested members to return to their seats and at least pass the anti-corruption bill. He said handful of people were obstructing proceedings over their agenda.

When the House met at 2 PM, members of Congress, AIADMK, BSP, CPI-M, AAP, TDP and YSR were in the Well holding placards and shouting slogans — “Narendra Modi – Dalit Virodhi” (Narendra Modi is anti-Dalit) and “Dalit virodhi yeh sarkar, nahi chalegi” (this anti-Dalit government will not be tolerated).

Amid the din, the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill 2013 was taken up for consideration and passage by Deputy Chairman P J Kurien, who asked Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions Jitendra Singh to move the bill for consideration, saying he would proceed with it as no member has given their name for a debate on it.

The bill aims to make giving a bribe a specific offence like taking a bribe and seeks to modify the definitions and penalties for such offences, among other things.

When the minister said the bill should just be passed without debate, Kurien asked TMC member Sukhendu Shekhar Ray, who had moved amendments to it, whether he would seek a division to enable voting on his amendments. As Ray insisted on a division, Kurien said the division cannot be taken up as the House is not in order.

Congress Deputy Leader Anand Sharma then raised a point of order saying the new members, who took the oath over the past few days, had not been given division numbers which enables them to exercise their voting right. He said in such a situation, the bill cannot be passed. But Kurien said “this bill is important. If it is not passed, it will have the impact on all government programmes. This bill is in the interest of the country. Therefore, the bill has to be passed” and urged the protesting members to go back to their seats.

The Opposition wants discussion and the government is ready for it, he said and asked the protesting members to take the opportunity to prove their majority at the time of voting.

However, as the exchanges, as well as the noisy protests from the Well, continued, Kurien adjourned the House briefly.

Following this, he held a series of backroom negotiations with leaders of major parties. The House saw repeated adjournments as the discussions in the Chair’s chamber continued.

When the House resumed after a couple of adjournments, Ray again insisted on a division, as other opposition members continued to raise slogans from the Well.

In the melee, Minister Jitendra Singh sought the passage of the bill without debate. “Pass it without the debate by a voice vote as per the sense of the nation,” he said.

Singh also said the government has zero tolerance for corruption. “Those watching today’s proceedings will know who is preventing the bill.” “The bill has gone through the standing committee and time and again it has been discussed over the last four years,” he said.

Referring to Anand Sharma’s point that new members had not been allotted division numbers, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar said, “Let us give you (new members) a slip. You can write yes or no. Already the bill has been moved for consideration. I request you to take this bill forward. We have to pass with the voice vote.”

Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Vijay Goel said “if the House is put to ransom like this and no bills are allowed to be passed, how will the government function? This (bill) should be passed. They (Opposition) have not allowed the House to function, now they want discussion.”

As an unrelenting opposition continued their slogan shouting, the Chair agreed for the division and said, “I wish to take the division and proceed. So, please go back to your seats.”

But as his pleas went unheeded, Kurien said he was sad that the House has not been able to transact any business.

However, Ray said he cannot press for division unless the lobbies are cleared and order is maintained in the House. “If you (chair) cannot do it, then adjourn the House,” he said. As the unruly scenes continued, the Upper House was finally adjourned for the day after witnessing 10 brief adjournments.

While the House was first adjourned till 2 pm within 20 minutes after it met at 11 am due to unrelenting opposition protests, it saw ten adjournments in a row in a space of three hours, after it re-convened in the afternoon.

The Rajya Sabha today witnessed an unprecedented 11 adjournments amid a clash between the government and the opposition over how an anti-graft bill should be passed and continued disruptions that prompted the Chair to lament the “murder of democracy”. While the House was first adjourned till 2 PM within 20 minutes after it met at 11 AM due to unrelenting opposition protests, it saw ten adjournments in a row in a space of three hours, after it re-convened in the afternoon. Chairman Venkaiah Naidu called the protests, which have not allowed any business to be transacted since the House met on March 5, as a “murder of democracy”. Naidu expressed displeasure over repeated disruptions since Parliament met early last month for the second half of the Budget session. He requested members to return to their seats and at least pass the anti-corruption bill. He said handful of people were obstructing proceedings over their agenda. When the House met at 2 PM, members of Congress, AIADMK, BSP, CPI-M, AAP, TDP and YSR were in the Well holding placards and shouting slogans — “Narendra Modi – Dalit Virodhi” (Narendra Modi is anti-Dalit) and “Dalit virodhi yeh sarkar, nahi chalegi” (this anti-Dalit government will not be tolerated). Amid the din, the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill 2013 was taken up for consideration and passage by Deputy Chairman P J Kurien, who asked Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions Jitendra Singh to move the bill for consideration, saying he would proceed with it as no member has given their name for a debate on it. The bill aims to make giving a bribe a specific offence like taking a bribe and seeks to modify the definitions and penalties for such offences, among other things. When the minister said the bill should just be passed without debate, Kurien asked TMC member Sukhendu Shekhar Ray, who had moved amendments to it, whether he would seek a division to enable voting on his amendments. As Ray insisted on a division, Kurien said the division cannot be taken up as the House is not in order. Congress Deputy Leader Anand Sharma then raised a point of order saying the new members, who took the oath over the past few days, had not been given division numbers which enables them to exercise their voting right. He said in such a situation, the bill cannot be passed. But Kurien said “this bill is important. If it is not passed, it will have the impact on all government programmes. This bill is in the interest of the country. Therefore, the bill has to be passed” and urged the protesting members to go back to their seats. The Opposition wants discussion and the government is ready for it, he said and asked the protesting members to take the opportunity to prove their majority at the time of voting. However, as the exchanges, as well as the noisy protests from the Well, continued, Kurien adjourned the House briefly. Following this, he held a series of backroom negotiations with leaders of major parties. The House saw repeated adjournments as the discussions in the Chair’s chamber continued. When the House resumed after a couple of adjournments, Ray again insisted on a division, as other opposition members continued to raise slogans from the Well. In the melee, Minister Jitendra Singh sought the passage of the bill without debate. “Pass it without the debate by a voice vote as per the sense of the nation,” he said. Singh also said the government has zero tolerance for corruption. “Those watching today’s proceedings will know who is preventing the bill.” “The bill has gone through the standing committee and time and again it has been discussed over the last four years,” he said. Referring to Anand Sharma’s point that new members had not been allotted division numbers, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar said, “Let us give you (new members) a slip. You can write yes or no. Already the bill has been moved for consideration. I request you to take this bill forward. We have to pass with the voice vote.” Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Vijay Goel said “if the House is put to ransom like this and no bills are allowed to be passed, how will the government function? This (bill) should be passed. They (Opposition) have not allowed the House to function, now they want discussion.” As an unrelenting opposition continued their slogan shouting, the Chair agreed for the division and said, “I wish to take the division and proceed. So, please go back to your seats.” But as his pleas went unheeded, Kurien said he was sad that the House has not been able to transact any business. However, Ray said he cannot press for division unless the lobbies are cleared and order is maintained in the House. “If you (chair) cannot do it, then adjourn the House,” he said. As the unruly scenes continued, the Upper House was finally adjourned for the day after witnessing 10 brief adjournments.

Rajya Sabha witnesses an unprecedented 11 adjournments in a single day

Parliament's Lower and Upper House, the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha were on Tuesday adjourned till tomorrow after the AIADMK MPs protested demanding the formation of the Cauvery Management Board and other issues.

The Lower House, the Lok Sabha was initially adjourned till 12 pm and later till tomorrow.

In the Rajya Sabha, MPs (Members of Parliament) belonging to the Congress, TMC, BSP, TDP and those of Tamil parties -- DMK and AIADMK, were in the Well even before Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu could settle down in his chair.

Unlike past days when listed papers were allowed to be laid on the table peacefully, Naidu had to go through the exercise today amid chaos as members persisted with slogan shouting.

The Congress and the BSP led the charge against the government, accusing it of being "anti-dalit", an apparent reference to the Supreme Court ruling on the Scheduled Castes and Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

The main opposition party also raised the issue of India's biggest bank fraud involving the Punjab National Bank (PNB) alongside the TMC. Tamil parties were demanding immediate constitution of the Cauvery Water Management Board for division of river water between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

Members of the TDP and KVP Ramachandra Rao of the Congress held placards demanding special status for Andhra Pradesh. 
 
As soon as the Lower House met for the day and took up the Question Hour, AIADMK members rushed into the Well shouting slogans such as "we want justice" and "we demand Cauvery board".

Citing assembly polls in Karnataka, the Centre had sought more time from the Supreme Court last week to set up the board to implement water sharing formula between Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry.

Congress member Kantilal Bhuria and RJD's J P N Yadav were seen waving documents and demanding a&nbsp;review of the Supreme Court order diluting the provisions of immediate arrest under SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

The Congress party and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) earlier gave adjournment motion notices in the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha.

RJD MP JP Yadav and Congress MP Sushmita Dev gave adjournment motion notices in the Lok Sabha over the leak of the class 10th CBSE maths paper and the class 12th CBSE economics papers. 
&nbsp;

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RJD MP JP Yadav and Congress MP Sushmita Dev have given adjournment motion notices in Lok Sabha over <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CBSEPaperLeak?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CBSEPaperLeak</a> (file pics) <a href="https://t.co/J5Gu0fMhJP">pic.twitter.com/J5Gu0fMhJP</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/980667458699874305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Congress gave an adjournment motion notice under rule 267 in the Upper House over the nearly Rs 1300 crores Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam by designer jeweller Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi.

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Congress has given an adjournment motion notice under rule 267 in Rajya Sabha over 'Bank Scam' <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BudgetSession?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BudgetSession</a> <a href="https://t.co/0ZuQU6aaVz">pic.twitter.com/0ZuQU6aaVz</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/980660559225016320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Lok Sabha has previously been adjourned for 15 days without undertaking any significant business due to protests by various Opposition political parties for different reasons including special status for Andhra Pradesh, the SC/ST Act, the PNB scam and the Cauvery water dispute.

 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Lok Sabha has been adjourned for 15 days without undertaking any significant business due to protests by various Opposition political parties

Parliament's Lower and Upper House, the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha were on Tuesday adjourned till tomorrow after the AIADMK MPs protested demanding the formation of the Cauvery Management Board and other issues. The Lower House, the Lok Sabha was initially adjourned till 12 pm and later till tomorrow. In the Rajya Sabha, MPs (Members of Parliament) belonging to the Congress, TMC, BSP, TDP and those of Tamil parties -- DMK and AIADMK, were in the Well even before Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu could settle down in his chair. Unlike past days when listed papers were allowed to be laid on the table peacefully, Naidu had to go through the exercise today amid chaos as members persisted with slogan shouting. The Congress and the BSP led the charge against the government, accusing it of being "anti-dalit", an apparent reference to the Supreme Court ruling on the Scheduled Castes and Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The main opposition party also raised the issue of India's biggest bank fraud involving the Punjab National Bank (PNB) alongside the TMC. Tamil parties were demanding immediate constitution of the Cauvery Water Management Board for division of river water between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Members of the TDP and KVP Ramachandra Rao of the Congress held placards demanding special status for Andhra Pradesh. As soon as the Lower House met for the day and took up the Question Hour, AIADMK members rushed into the Well shouting slogans such as "we want justice" and "we demand Cauvery board". Citing assembly polls in Karnataka, the Centre had sought more time from the Supreme Court last week to set up the board to implement water sharing formula between Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry. Congress member Kantilal Bhuria and RJD's J P N Yadav were seen waving documents and demanding a review of the Supreme Court order diluting the provisions of immediate arrest under SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The Congress party and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) earlier gave adjournment motion notices in the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha. RJD MP JP Yadav and Congress MP Sushmita Dev gave adjournment motion notices in the Lok Sabha over the leak of the class 10th CBSE maths paper and the class 12th CBSE economics papers. RJD MP JP Yadav and Congress MP Sushmita Dev have given adjournment motion notices in Lok Sabha over #CBSEPaperLeak (file pics) pic.twitter.com/J5Gu0fMhJP — ANI (@ANI) April 2, 2018 × The Congress gave an adjournment motion notice under rule 267 in the Upper House over the nearly Rs 1300 crores Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam by designer jeweller Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi. Congress has given an adjournment motion notice under rule 267 in Rajya Sabha over 'Bank Scam' #BudgetSession pic.twitter.com/0ZuQU6aaVz — ANI (@ANI) April 2, 2018 × The Lok Sabha has previously been adjourned for 15 days without undertaking any significant business due to protests by various Opposition political parties for different reasons including special status for Andhra Pradesh, the SC/ST Act, the PNB scam and the Cauvery water dispute. (With inputs from agencies)

Parliament adjourned for the day over ruckus in both houses

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