Opposition MPs Stage Walkout From LS Over Pragya Thakur’s Remarks
All the live updates of Parliament’s Winter Session, starting on 18 November.
Opposition MPs on Thursday, 28 November, staged a walkout from Lok Sabha amid uproar over BJP MP Pragya Thakur's comments in parliament yesterday, referring to Mahatma Gandhi's assassin as a 'desh bhakt'.
The BJP too condemned the remarks made by its own MP saying it does not support such statements.
Talking about the condition of the Indian economy, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday in Rajya Sabha stated the the economic growth may have plummeted but there is no recession yet.
Meanwhile, Home Minister Amit Shah on the SPG cover stated that the earlier governments had misused the law while the PM Modi will restore the original intent of the Act.
- Rajya Sabha passed the controversial Transgender (Protection of Rights) Bill 2019 in a joint Parliament session on Constitution Day on Tuesday, 26 November
- The Lok Sabha on Wednesday, 20 November, passed the Chit Funds (Amendment) Bill, 2019
- During the session, a special joint sitting of both the Houses has been planned to mark Constitution Day on 26 November
- The Winter Session will last till 13 December
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Govt Set to Push Citizenship Amendment Bill
In the Session beginning on Monday, the government is set to push for the passage of the contentious Citizenship (Amendment) Bill.
The government has listed the Bill in its items of business for the session, official sources said, PTI reported.
The government had introduced the Bill in its previous tenure as well but could not push it through due to vehement protests by Opposition parties, which criticised the Bill as being discriminatory on religious grounds.
The Bill had lapsed following the dissolution of the last Lok Sabha.
The legislation seeks to grant Indian citizenship to Hindus, Jains, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists and Parsis from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan if they have fled their respective country due to religious persecution.
PM Says All Issues Open for Discussion
Ahead of Parliament's Winter Session, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, 17 November assured at the all-party meeting that the government is ready to discuss all issues, while the Opposition strongly raised Lok Sabha MP Farooq Abdullah's detention and demanded that he be allowed to attend the House.
"Government is ready to discuss all issues within the framework of rules and procedures of the Houses," Modi was quoted as saying, according to PTI.
Constructive discussion in Parliament also keeps the bureaucracy alert, the Prime Minister said at the meeting.
Opposition Leaders Demand Farooq Abdullah be Allowed to Attend Parliament
Opposition leaders raised the issue of Abdullah's detention and demanded that he be allowed to attend the Session, but received no definite response from the government, sources said, PTI reported.
"How can a parliamentarian be detained illegally? He should be allowed to attend Parliament," Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad said.
The government has detained Abdullah under the Public Safety Act (PSA), a law enacted by his father and NC Founder Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah in 1978 when he was the chief minister.
Azad also made a similar case for former Finance Minister P Chidambaram.
“Past precedents are such that MPs have been allowed to attend Parliament sessions even if their cases were being heard. So, P Chidambaram should also be allowed to attend the Winter Session,” he said.
House to Pay Respects to Arun Jaitley, Sushma Swaraj
The winter session of Parliament will open on Monday, 18 November, with obituaries to two members of the Upper House — former Union ministers Arun Jaitley and Ram Jethmalani — and former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj.
Former finance minister Jaitley, who had been battling a series of illnesses, died of multiple organ failure at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in New Delhi on 24 August.
Another senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, Swaraj died of a cardiac arrest in Delhi on 6 August.
Ram Jethmalani, died in Delhi on 8 September after being unwell for a few months.
Chidambaram: Cong Must Lead Oppn in Parliament to Expose 'Utter Mismanagement' of Economy
Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram on Monday, 18 November said that his party must lead the Opposition in Parliament to expose the "utter mismanagement" of the economy by the Modi government.
He also alleged that the government refuses to accept valid criticism.
In a tweet, posted by his family on his behalf, Chidambaram said, "When Parliament opens today, Congress must lead the Opposition to expose the utter mismanagement of the economy." "Which aspect of the economy is doing well? Not one," he said.
"The government seems knowledge proof and refuses to accept valid criticism and genuine advice," the former Union finance minister said in another tweet.
Winter Session is Crucial for Us: PM Modi Ahead of Winter Session Opening
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing the media ahead of the Parliament Winter Session opening, said that the last session of the year is crucial for India as well. He said that he wants a frank discussion on all issues. "All issues need to be discussed," he said.
Congress Gives Adjournment Motion Over Article 370 in Lok Sabha
The Congress party has given an Adjournment Motion Notice in Lok Sabha over the “Instability in Jammu and Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370,” news agency ANI reported.
Shiv Sena Gives Adjournment Motion Over Maha Crop Failure
The Shiv Sena, on Monday 18 November, also gave an adjournment motion in the Lok Sabha due to the crops lost in Maharashtra during the heavy rainfall earlier this year.
Rajya Sabha MPs from J&K Nazir Protest Outside Parliament Over J&K
Rajya Sabha MPs Nazir Ahmad Laway and Mir Mohammed Fayaz staged protest in the Parliament premises over scrapping the special status of Jammu and Kashmir.
PM Modi Meets Top Ministers Ahead of Winter Session: Report
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, according to media reports, is meeting top ministers ahead of the beginning of the Parliament Winter Session, CNN News18 reported.
Being Able to Express Views, Articulate Opinion is Essence of Parliament: Cong's Adhir Ranjan
Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, ahead of the Parliament's Winter Session, said that the true essence of the Parliament is when the parties get ot express their views and articulate an opinion.
He said that the opposition expects the Prime Minister and the ruling party to address the issues of the common people.
He further said that it is on the government only, to run the house smoothly, allowing opposition parties to express their views.
TMC Gives Adjournment Motion Over Farooq Abdullah's Detention
TMC has given Adjournment Motion Notice in Lok Sabha over detention of National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah.
LS Speaker Om Birla Opens with Tribute to Sushma Swaraj, Arun Jaitley, Other Former MPs
Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla, while addressing the Lok Sabha upon opening of the Parliament Session, began with tributes to former MPs who passed away since the last session of the Parliament.
Former Union Ministers Arun Jaitley, Sushma Swaraj, and others were among the name, whose obit was read by the Speaker before the house began its proceedings.
RS Speaker Naidu Opens With Tribute to Former MPs
Before beginning the proceedings in the Upper House, speaker M Venkaiah Naidu paid tributes to former Rajya Sabha remembers Jagannath Mishra, Arun Jaitley, Sukhdev Singh Libra, Ram Jethmalani, Gurudas Gupta - former and sitting members of the House who passed away earlier this year.
Rajya Sabha members Ghulam Nabi Azad and TMC MP Derek O'Brien, among other Rajya Sabha MPs extended their tributes to the five members - Arun Jaitley, Ram Jethmalani, Jagannath Mishra, Gurudas Gupta and Sukhdev Singh mishra, who passed away earlier this year, ahead of the upper house's proceedings commenced for the Winter Session.
BJP MPs Arrive to Parliament on Bicycles
Bhartiya Janata Party members Manoj Tiwari, and Mansukh Mandaviya, arrived for the Winter Session of the Parliament on a bicycle. Manoj Tiwari, who is also the Delhi BJP chief, is said to have used the bicycle as a protest against the pollution in Delhi.
Cong MP Protests Against Rising Air Pollution
Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi, in front of the Mahatma Gandhi statue in the Parliament premises, protested against the rising air pollution in Delhi.
Union Minister Prakash Javadekar Arrives in Electric Car
Union Minister Prakash Javadekar arrived at Parliament in an electric car, he said that the government is gradually switching to electric cars as they are pollution-free. “I appeal to people to contribute to fight pollution- start using public transport, electric vehicles etc,” he said.
Opposition Raises Questions on Economic Slowdown
During the question hour session of the Lok Sabha, opposition leaders threw questions over the ongoing economic slowdown.
Amid chants to release Farooq Abdullah, Minister of State for Finance, Anurag Thakur assured the opposition leaders that their questions will be addressed later during the session. He said that the way Modi government has dealt with black money, no one ever has had the courage to, and that the economic slowdown is worldwide.
Release Farooq Abdullah: Oppn Leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury
While attacking the government over the lockdown in Jammu and Kashmir, Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury demanded that the government should immidiately release senior MP Farooq Abdullah. He said that inviting European MPs to visit Kashmir is a massive disrespect to Indian parliamentarians.
Chowdhury also raised the issue of withdrawal of SPG cover of Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.
Kerala MP Raises IIT-Madras Student's Suicide Case, Demands Investigation Committee
Revolutionary Socialist Party MP from Karala, NK Premachandran also brought up the suicide of IIT Madras student Fathima Lateef, who was found hanging from a fan in her hostel room. He demanded a high level committee to look into the investigations regarding the case.
Fathima had reportedly identified a professor in the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences as "the cause of my death".
PM Modi to Speak in Rajya Sabha at 2 PM: Reports
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will speak in the 2 PM discussion in Rajya Sabha on Monday, 18 November, during the 250th Session.
Shouldn't do Politics on Public Health Issues: Union Min Ram Vilas Paswan
While speaking on the quality of water in the National Capital, union minister Ram Vilas Paswan, said that there should be no politics on issues that concern public health and safety, liket he issue of clean water in New Delhi.
He said that he will appoint officers who can conduct inquiry and get water samples checked, to put a report in public and urged Delhi to do the same.
PM Modi Congratulates India on 250th Session of Rajya Sabha
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing the Rajya Sabha, congratulated India on the Upper House’s 250th session. While speaking in the parliament, PM Modi recollected the history that has been created in the Rajya Sabha.
Can't Talk About Historic Decision Without Talking Rajya Sabha: PM Modi
While pointing out the importance of Rajya Sabha, PM Modi said that the Role of the Rajya Sabha can not be forgotten when talking about historic decisions like the abrogation of Article 370.
LS MP Raises Issue of Climate Change
A member of the Janata Dal (United) raised the issue of climate change and its impact on India.
“In the entire country there is climate change. In Bihar, we first saw drought and then in July there was so much rain in Patna,” said Kaushalendra Kumar of Janata Dal (United) in Lok Sabha during Zero Hour, reported PTI.
MPs Ride Bicycles, Wear Masks, Drive E-Cars to Reach Parl for Winter Session
Several MPs made a statement against pollution in the national capital by riding bicycles, sporting masks and even choosing electric vehicles over fuel guzzlers as they arrived for the Winter Session of Parliament.
The air quality in Delhi improved marginally today but remained in the “poor” category for the second consecutive day. At 9 am, the air quality index (AQI) in the national capital stood at 207 against an AQI of 254 at the same time on Sunday, reported PTI.
TMC, Sena Send Notice to RS Chairman Seeking Discussion on Economic Slump in India
Trinamool Congress (TMC) along with other opposition parties including Shiv Sena have given notice to Chairman of Rajya Sabha M Venkaiah Naidu seeking short duration discussion on ‘Economic Crisis in India and how to improve the situation,’ reported ANI.
JNU Students' Protest Figures in Lok Sabha
Raising the issue of protest by JNU students, BSP member Danish Ali demanded in the Lok Sabha that the government should ensure that the poor students were not denied the facility of higher education for an affordable fee.
He regretted that the education system of the country was being privatised and corporatised under the rule of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
“The government should look into the demands of poor students and take appropriate action,” the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) member said during the Zero Hour, reported PTI.
CPI Gives Suspension of Business Notice Over JNU
Communist Party of India (CPI) Rajya Sabha MP Binoy Viswan has given a suspension of business notice in the upper house under rule 267, over Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) students’ protests.
Parties Move Adjournment Motions Over JNU Students' Protests
Multiple opposition parties, including the Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP), the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) have given an adjournment motion notice in the Lok Sabha over the Jawaharlal Nehru University students’ protests.
The students of JNU have been protesting against the fee hike announced recently.
Rajya Sabha Adjourned Till 2 PM
Rajya Sabha was adjourned till 2 pm on Tuesday, 19 November, following uproar after speaker M Venkaiah Naidu refused to allow suspension of business under rule 267, given by CPI MP Binoy Viswan.
Opposition Creates Ruckus, Chants 'Tanashahi Band Karo'
Amid the question hour session in the Lok Sabha, on the second day of the Winter session, slogans of 'Tanashahi bandh karo, bandh karo' started from the Opposition's side. The first question in the House was on doubling of farmers income by 2022.
RS Speaker Explains Rajya Sabha Marshals' Uniform Change
Rajya Sabha speaker, M Venkaiah Naidu, on Tuesday, 19 November spoke on the uniform change of the Marshals in the Upper House. He said that the Secretariat of the Rajya Sabha, after considering various suggestions came with a new dress code for the marshals.
“But we've received some observations by some political as well as well-meaning people. I've decided to ask Secretariat to revisit the same,” he said.
RS Chairman Orders Review of Marshals’ New Uniform
Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday ordered review of the new military-style uniform of marshals in the House, a move which comes following criticism by some ex-Army officers and remarks of opposition leaders.
Uniforms of Rajya Sabha marshals were restyled from traditional Indian attire comprising turbans to dark navy blue and olive green military-style outfits with caps.
Naidu mentioned in the House that the Secretariat of Rajya Sahba had come out with a new dress code for marshals.
However, there have been suggestions and comments by politicians and well-meaning individuals on the same, he said.
Oppn Slams Govt Over Police Action Against JNU Students, BJP Hits Back
The police action on JNU students protesting against hostel fee hike, disrupted the proceedings of Rajya Sabha, with opposition leaders slamming the Modi government and the varsity administration for “repressing” a democratic movement.
However, the ruling BJP leaders expressed skepticism with Union minister Giriraj Singh alleging that some people wanted to turn JNU into a Centre of “Urban Naxalism.”
“The hostel fee hike is a pretext for whatever is happening in JNU. Some people want to turn JNU into a centre of Urban Naxalism. Its the same JNU where 'Bharat Tere Tukde Honge' slogans were raised and where death anniversary of Afzal Guru was observed,” the minister told a news channel, reported PTI.
'950 ceasefire violations by Pak since abrogation of Article 370': Union Min in LS
As many as 950 incidents of ceasefire violation by Pakistan have been reported along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370 in August, the Lok Sabha was informed.
Union Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy also said in the Lok Sabha that terrorism emanating from territories under Pakistan's control remains a core concern in bilateral relations.
“950 incidents of ceasefire violation along the LoC from across the border in Jammu and Kashmir were reported during August 2019 to October 2019,” he said, replying a written question, reported PTI.
RS Adjourned Till Tomorrow
The Upper House of the Parliament Rajya Sabha has been adjourned till Wednesday, 20 November.
LS Speaker Om Birla Disappointed With Absence of Parliament Staff During Imp Discussions
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla expressed displeasure over absence of Parliament officers and staff during important discussions or sittings in the House. He has also issued notice to them asking for reply, reported ANI.
Parliamentary Panel to Discuss Air Pollution in Delhi on Wednesday
A meeting of a parliamentary committee on the issue of air pollution in the national capital is scheduled for Wednesday after the absence of most of its members and senior officials from its last meeting sparked outrage and raised questions over their seriousness in fighting the menace.
The panel's head and BJP MP Jagdambika Pal is learnt to have written to the Lok Sabha speaker, expressing his “displeasure” at the absence of senior government officials from the last meeting, as they were scheduled to brief parliamentarians on the pollution crisis, especially in the national capital, reported PTI.
Centre Issued Advisories to State Govts to Curb Mob Lynchings: MHA
Ministry of Home Affairs in Lok Sabha on Supreme Court guidelines regarding mob lynching stated, “Centre had issued advisories to state governments and administration of Union Territories to take steps to curb mob lynching. Government also sensitized people through audio visual media.
Census 2021 to Be Conducted in 16 Languages: Home Ministry
Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai said that Census 2021 will be conducted in 16 languages.
Replying to a question regarding the use of the mobile app for Census 2021, he said, “During Census 2021, a mix mode approach is being adopted for data collection. Census will be conducted in two phases: house-listing and Housing Census from April to September 2020 and Population Enumeration during 9-28 February 2021.,” reported ANI.
Parliament Nod to Bill for Removal of Cong Chief as Jallianwala Memorial Trustee
Parliament passed a bill which seeks to remove the Congress president as a trustee of the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial.
The Rajya Sabha passed by voice vote ‘The Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (amendment) Bill’, which deletes the provision of the Congress chief being a permanent member of the trust which runs the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial, reported PTI.
The Lok Sabha has already passed the bill on 2 August, which also paves the way for the leader of the single largest opposition party in the Lok Sabha to be a member of the trust.
Cong MPs to Hold Meetings at 10:30 on Wed
A meeting of Congress Lok Sabha MPs to be held on Wednesday, 20 November at 10:30 am at the Parliament. The meeting, presided over by Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi, will be to discuss Parliament strategy, reported ANI.
NCP Chief Sharad Pawar to Meet PM Modi in Parliament
Nationalist Congress Party chairman Sharad Pawar will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi today at 12:30 pm to discuss the issue of farmers in Maharashtra.
The meeting is scheduled to take place in the Parliament itself.
No Political Reason for Removal of SPG Cover of Gandhi's
Responding to a query over the removal of SPG cover for Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Manmohan Singh, BJP MP JP Nadda said that there is no political reason behind the removal. He said that the Home Ministry has set a pattern and there is a protocol followed.
"It is not done by a politician, it is done by Home Ministry and according to threat perception the security is given and withdrawn," Nadda said.
He was responding to a query from Congress MP Anand Sharma.
Home Minister Amit Shah to Speak in Lok Sabha Today
Union Home Minister Amit Shah will address the Rajya Sabha around 12 pm today.
Home Minister Amit Shah Takes Questions on Jammu and Kashmir
Unon Home Minister Amit Shah, on Wednesday, 20 November, took questions on the situation in Jammu and Kashmir in the Rajya Sabha. Shah answered questions on the lack of internet, the loss in education, and the law and order in the area.
He said that the situation in the area is normal. "Not one, among the 195 police stations have imposed Section 144 at the moment," Shah said.
He further said that the Centre will take a call on the restoration of internet after the J&K administration feels appropriate and advises the government on the same.
On education, he said that there was about 98 percent attendance in the board examination. Hence, there is no lack of education. This was countered by Congress MP Ghulam Nabi Azad as saying that the attendance was for the exams, not working days.
Further, Azad questioned on how internet is crucial towards education in these times. Shah reiterated that the administration will decide when its appropriate to restore the internet regardless.
On the Law and Order, he said that After August 5(abrogation of artice 370 in J&K) not even a single person has died in police firing. People in this house were predicting bloodshed but I am happy to inform that no one has died in police firing. Incidents of stone pelting have declined
"NRC Will be Carried Out Across Country": Amit Shah in Rajya Sabha
While answering questions on the NRC, Home Minister Amit Shah said that the National Registrar of Citizens will be carried out across the country.
He said that every refugee should get Citizenship under the new Citizenship Amendment Bill. He said that NRC is different from this bill, since all citizens of India, irrespective of religion will figure in the NRC list. The NRC is different from Citizenship Amendment Bill, he said.
Shah further said the the National Register of Citizens will be carried out across the country. "No one, irrespective of religion should be worried, it is just a process to get everyone under the NRC."
Decision to Hurt Shiv Sena: Sanjay Raut on Change of Seats in Rajya Sabha
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut has written to Rajya Sabha speaker M Venkaiah Naidu, over the change of seating for Shiv Sena, moving them to the Opposition’s stand.
He said that this has been done deliberately to hurt Shiv Sena’s sentiments and suppress the party’s voice.
Govt Must Disclose All Details About Electoral Bonds Before Parliament: Cong
Congress demanded that the government disclose all details about electoral bonds before Parliament, alleging that the scheme resulted in money laundering and destroyed transparency in the funding of political parties.
Describing electoral bonds as a “political bribery scheme”, the opposition party said it was a scam that tarnished the image of the Indian democracy, reported PTI.
AAP MPs Protest in Parl Complex, Demand Bill on Regularising Delhi's Unauthorised Colonies
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MPs held a protest in the Parliament complex against the Centre for not listing a bill in the Winter Session to regularise unauthorised colonies in Delhi despite making an announcement to do so last month.
AAP’s Rajya Sabha MPs – Sanjay Singh, ND Gupta and Sushil Gupta – and Lok Sabha MP Bhagwant Mann protested at the Gandhi statue in the Parliament complex.
They held placards and raised slogans like “Stop cheating people.”
“A list of 27 bills proposed to be tabled in Parliament has been given by the government, but not one of them pertains to regularisation of unauthorised colonies. This means you (BJP) are cheating the people of Delhi, you are lying to them,” said Singh, reported PTI.
'Govt Committed to Protecting Right to Privacy': Prasad on Pegasus Spyware
Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, in Lok Sabha, on reports of alleged use and purchase of Pegasus spyware by the government agencies said, “Some statements have appeared regarding this, they are based on media reports. These attempts to malign the government for reported breach are misleading. Government is committed to protect the fundamental rights of citizens, including the right to privacy.”
He added, “The government operates strictly as per provisions of law and laid down protocols. There are adequate provisions in IT Act, 2000 to deal with hacking, spyware etc,” reported ANI.
'Waive Passport Requirement for Kartarpur Pilgrims,' Says BJP MP Shankar Lalwani
BJP MP Shankar Lalwani asked the Centre to work to waive the passport requirement for pilgrims visiting Kartarpur Sahib in Pakistan.
Making the demand in Lok Sabha, Lalwani aurged the government to take up the issue of waiving fees for pilgrims visiting the shrine while noting that Pakistanis visiting religious places like the Sufi shrine in Ajmer are not required to pay any extra fees, reported PTI.
Congress members from Punjab were seen raising their hands in an endorsement of the Indore MP's plea.
Cyber Attack on Kudankulam: Minister Says Error, If Any, Confined to Admin Block
Amid reports of a cyber attack on the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant, Union Minister Jitendra Singh told Lok Sabha that “if at all an error like this happened, it was confined to the administrative block,” reported PTI.
The Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL), a public sector undertaking under the Department of Atomic Energy, had recently admitted of a malware attack on one of the computers in the plant but said the plant systems were not affected.
Sanjay Raut Writes to Naidu Over Change in Seat in House
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Wednesday wrote a letter to Rajya Sabha Chairman Venkaiah Naidu complaining over the change in seating arrangement.
"Astonished to know that my seating position in RS chamber is changed from 3rd to 5th row.This decision was taken by someone deliberately to hurt Shiv Sena's sentiments and suppress our voice," he wrote.
"I also fail to understand reason for this unwarranted step since there is no formal announcement about the removal from NDA. This decision has affected dignity of the House," he also wrote.
Lok Sabha Passes Chit Fund Bill
The Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed the Chit Funds (Amendment) Bill, 2019.
The Bill introduces words such as "fraternity fund", "rotating savings" and "credit institution" to make chit funds more respectable, said Minister of State for Finance Anurag Thakur.
The maximum chit amount is proposed to raised from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 3 lakh for those managed by individuals or less than four partners, and from Rs 6 lakh to Rs 18 lakh for firms with four or more partners.
The maximum commission for foreman, who is responsible for managing the chit, is proposed to be raised from 5 per cent to 7 per cent.
Rajya Sabha Adjourned Till 12 PM
Rajya Sabha was adjourned till noon as opposition parties including the Congress protested after the Chair did not allow discussion on the issue of electoral bonds and privatisation of state-owned firms.
Soon after laying of listed papers by ministers on the table of the House, Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu said he has received notices from several members to suspend business and take up discussions on the RBI's objection to electoral bonds, and disinvestment of PSUs.
"They (the notices) do not warrant suspension of other business and (notices) taken upon priority," he said.
However, Congress members were on their feet and held protests.
RTI Says Govt Overruled RBI in 2018: Cong MP Manish Tiwari
Congress MP Manish Tiwari, speaking in the Lok Sabha, said that the government has overruled the Reserve Bank of India on Electoral Bonds. He said that an RTI in 2018 has revealed the same.
Indians Account for 93% H1B Visas
External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, while responding to a query on the H1B Visas, said that Indians account for 93 percent of H1B Visa category, which falls under the H4 category.
He further said that the ability of spouses of H1B visa holders working in US to work was introduced in 2015.
Rajya Sabha Adjourned Till 2 PM
After the questuion hour, the Rajya Sabha was adjourned after the quesstion hour. Speaker M Venkaiah Naidu said that the house will take up air pollution attention notice after 2 pm, further urging all members to be present in the house.
More Than 100 Projects to Clean Ganga Completed: Union Min Gajendra Singh Shekhawat
More than 100 projects of the 305 projects sanctioned to clean the Ganga have been completed, according to Union Minister Gajendra Singh. Addressing the Lok Sabha during the fourth day of the Parliament’s winter session, Shekhawat said that Rs 20,000 crores were disbursed for the project against which work of more than Rs 28,000 crore has been allocated.
Union Minister Prakash Javadekar Takes Questions on Pollution
Addressing a question on the Air Pollution in the Rajya Sabha, Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar, on Thursday 21 November laid out the Centre’s measure to tackle the air pollution in the country, particularly in the National Capital.
'Punjab Farmers Have No Option But to Burn Stubble': Bhagwant Mann
Bhagwant Mann, Aam Aadmi Party leader in the Lok Sabha said, “The government has put MSP on the crop which gives out stubble. No farmer in Punjab wants to burn the stubble. He has no other option.”
AAP MP Sanjay Singh Gives Zero-Hour Notice in Rajya Sabha
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Sanjay Singh has given zero-hour notice in Rajya sabha over 'privatisation of Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs)'.
Cong MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and Manish Tiwari Give Adjournment Notice in LS
Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Choudhary and Congress MP Manish Tewari have given Adjournment Motion Notice in Lok Sabha over the 'disinvestment of Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs)'.
TMC Gives Adjournment Motion in Lok Sabha Over J&K
Trinamool Congress (TMC) has given Adjournment Motion Notice in Lok Sabha over 'continued shutdown in Srinagar (Jammu & Kashmir)'.
RSP Gives Adjournment Motion in Lok Sabha Over Negligence of Teachers, Doctors
The Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP) has given an adjournment motion notice in the Lok Sabha over 'criminal negligence of the teaching faculty and doctors of Wayanad'.
A 10-year-old student had died on 20 November allegedly after snakebite in school in Wayanad, Kerala.
Cong Stages Protests Over Electoral Bonds
The Congress party, after giving a Suspension of Business Notice in Rajya Sabha under rule 267, over "reservation expressed by RBI (Reserve Bank of India) and ECI (Election Commission of India) on Electoral Bonds Scheme," also staged a protest outside the Parliament building.
The party is calling out the “ BJP government's dubious and corrupt practices.”
The party said that the BJP government lied to the people of India and the democratic institutions to pass the Electoral Bond Scheme, only to make themselves richer.
Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar Takes Questions on Plastic Usage
Bill to Ban Production, Sale of E-Cigarettes in Lok Sabha
Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan has tabled the bill to ban production, import and sale of e-cigarettes and similar products in the Lok Sabha.
Union Minister Prakash Javadekar Addresses Lok Sabha on Air Pollution and Climate
Union Minister Prakash Javadekar, on Friday 22 November, addressed the Lok Sabha on the issue of high pollution levels and climate change during the Winter Session of the Parliament.
He said that the Centre will convene a meeting of all environment ministers of all states to discuss the problem of single-use plastic, solid waste management and measures to solve it.
The Environment Minister first spoke on Climate change. He said that all living being on earth are one. “Humans are not supreme, everything on the planet is equal,” he said.
Should Plant At Least 7 Trees in a Lifetime: Javadekar Tells LS
Union Minister for Environment and Human Resouce Development, Prakash Javadekar, on Friday 22 November, addressed the Lok Sabha on Air Pollution and climate change. The environment minister started with climate change, saying India is a leader in terms of working towards climate change. He said that in Paris, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, annuonced that India will put out 1.75 lakh megawatt of electricity from natural resources in the next few years. In the last four years, the government has produced about 80,000 megawatt of natural electricity, he said.
He said that before 2030, India will be capable of producing about 4.5 lakh of natural electricity.
Further, he said that everyone should plant trees.
The environment minister also said that the government has created about 13,000 square kilometre of green cover. "Out of the two countries whose green cover is increasing, India is one."
Congress Gives Adjournment Motion
Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, and Congress' Chief Whip in Lok Sabha, K Suresh have given adjournment motion notice in the House on Maharashtra issue.
Meanwhile, Rajya Sabha MP Binoy Viswam has given Suspension of Business Notice in the Upper house under rule 267 on the same issue.
Lok Sabha Adjourned After Protests By Congress
Congress members in Lok Sabha on Monday stormed the well carrying placards to protest the swearing-in of a BJP-led government in Maharashtra, leading to adjournment of House proceedings till noon.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said democracy has been murdered in Maharashtra.
Speaker Om Birla ordered the removal of two Congress members Hibi Eden and T N Prathapan- who were holding a big banner with 'stop murder of democracy slogan - by marshals.
Intense protests by Congress members resisting their removal prompted the Speaker to adjourn the House till noon.
Rahul Refuses to Ask Question, Says Democracy 'Murdered' in Maharashtra
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi declined to ask a question he was scheduled to, at the start of the Question Hour on Monday at 11 am.
Expressing discontent over the Maharashtra government formation he said, ‘There is no point in my asking the question as democracy has been murdered in Maharashtra.”
His comment came as Congress members stormed the Well carrying placards to protest the swearing-in of a BJP-led government in Maharashtra.
Security Personnel Manhandled Women MPs: Cong's Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury
Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Monday alleged that women parliamentarians were "manhandled" when they were protesting over the Maharashtra government formation, PTI reported.
"Security personnel manhandled our women parliamentarians. We have never experienced this inside Parliament. We will be waiting to see what action is been taken against responsible people," Chowdhury told reporters.
LS, RS Adjourned for the Day
The Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha were adjourned on Monday, 25 November, till 2 pm the next day, after the Congress held a protest against the BJP's move to form a government in Maharashtra along with the NCP.
Bill to Amend SPG Act Introduced in Lok Sabha
A bill to amend the Special Protection Group (SPG) Act was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Monday by Minister of State for Home Affairs G Kishen Reddy.
This comes days after the government withdrew the elite security cover provided to members of the Gandhi family.
According to the proposed amendment, only the PM would be entitled to the coveted SPG security cover. Family members of former prime ministers would be excluded, PTI reports.
'Hurt by Whatever Happened': LS Speaker Om Birla on Ruckus Over Maharashtra
Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla, on Monday 25 November, expressed his displeasure over the ruckus in the Parliament today. He said that he is hurt by the developments, after members of the Opposition disrupted the day's proceedings, over the 'un-democratic' developments in Maharashtra, leading to Devendra Fadnavis' oath-taking as Chief Minister.
Opposition Parties to Boycott Special Parl Sitting on Const Day
Some opposition parties including the Congress are likely to boycott the joint sitting of Parliament on Tuesday, 26 November, called to commemorate the Constitution Day.
Sources said that the opposition led by the Congress, left parties and NCP, TMC and DMK have planned a joint protest outside Ambedkar statue inside Parliament complex against the political developments in Maharashtra and installing a government led by Devendra Fadnavis with Ajit Pawar as deputy chief minister.
The government is celebrating 'Constitution Day' or 'Samvidhan Diwas' on Tuesday in the Central Hall of Parliament to mark the 70th anniversary of adoption of the Constitution by the Constituent Assembly.
President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the MPs on the occasion.
The President will also inaugurate a digital exhibition through video conferencing.
Oppn Parties Boycott PM Modi's Joint Parliament Sitting Address
Opposition parties are boycotting PM Modi's address at the joint sitting of Parliament today, and holding a protest in front of the Ambedkar Statue in Parliament, opposing govt formation in Maharashtra by BJP.
“The decision has been taken because government is bypassing the Constitution. In the latest situation in Maharashtra, they are disrespecting Indian Constitution,” says Congress Leader K Suresh.
India Has Empowered, Strengthened Democracy in Last 70 Years: PM
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said India has strengthened and empowered its democracy in the last 70 years.
Addressing members of both Houses of Parliament in the Central Hall of Parliament House, he also said that while 26 November is a happy occasion as India celebrates Constitution Day, it also reminds of the Mumbai terror attacks that took place on this day in 2008.
"I pay tributes to those killed in the Mumbai terror attacks," he said.
(Source: PTI)
President Kovind Says All Should Abide by Constitutional Morality
President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday said all three organs of the state, persons holding constitutional posts, members of civil society and citizens should abide by "constitutional morality".
Addressing joint sitting of Parliament to mark Constitution Day, he said B R Ambedkar, while underlining the importance of constitutional morality, had emphasised that its essence was to regard the Constitution as supreme and to follow constitutionally-mandated procedures.
(Source: PTI)
Bill to Merge Daman & Diu, Dadra & Nagar Haveli Introduced in LS
Bill to merge two union territories, Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli, has been introduced in the Lok Sabha, PTI reports. The bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha by Union Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy.
Bill on Delhi's Unauthorised Colonies Introduced in LS
A bill which seeks to provide a legal framework to grant ownership rights to people living in unauthorised colonies in Delhi was in introduced in Lok Sabha on Tuesday.
Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri introduced the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Recognition of Property Rights of Residents in Unauthorised Colonies) Bill, 2019, reports PTI.
The proposal to grant ownership rights is applicable to 1,797 identified unauthorised colonies spread over 175 square-km of the national capital inhabited by people from lower income groups.
RS Passes Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill 2019
The Rajya Sabha on Tuesday passed a Bill on protection of rights of transgenders after a motion to refer it to a Select Committee of the Upper House was defeated.
The Lok Sabha had passed the Bill on 5 August this year, during the Parliament’s Monsoon session.
The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019, seeks to provide a mechanism for social, economic and educational empowerment of transgenders and was moved for consideration and passage in the Rajya Sabha by Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Thawar Chand Gehlot on 20 November.
The Bill has been heavily criticised by members of the LGBTQ+ community for failing to take into account the opinions of transgender persons while formulating certain sections and for taking away the rights of trans persons when it came to self-identifying their gender and orientation.
Lok Sabha Passes National Institute of Design (Amendment) Bill
The Lok Sabha, on Tuesday 26 November, passed the National Institute of Design (amendment) bill, 2019.
Terror Incidents in J&K Almost Nil: Rajnath
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday, 27 November, asserted in Lok Sabha that terror incidents in Jammu and Kashmir have come down to almost nil, PTI reported.
He also said the Army, paramilitary forces and the police have been coordinating to fight terrorism in the state.
"Terror incidents have been taking place in Jammu and Kashmir for the last 30-35 years. But I must compliment the forces. Terror incidents have now come down to almost nil (Lag bhag na ke barabar)," he said in response to a question.
Govt Withdraws J&K Reservation Bill From Lok Sabha
The government on Wednesday withdrew the J&K Reservation Bill (Amendment) Bill 2019 from the Lok Sabha as central laws providing quota to the economically backward class are now applicable to the union territory post repeal of special provisions under Article 370.
The Bill was brought to amend the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation Act, 2004 and replace an Ordinance promulgated on 1 March.
The Act provided for reservation in appointment and promotions in certain state government posts to persons belonging to socially and educationally backward classes.
It defined socially and educationally backward classes to include persons living in areas adjoining the Actual Line of Control. The Bill amended this to include those persons living in areas adjoining the International Border, within the ambit of this reservation.
Lok Sabha Passes Bill to Ban E-Cigarettes in India
A bill to ban the production, import and sale of electronic cigarettes was passed by Lok Sabha on Wednesday.
The Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes (Production, Manufacture, Import, Export, Transport, Sale, Distribution, Storage and Advertisement) Bill 2019, seeks to replace an ordinance issued on 18 September.
Over 2,300 Women RPF Personnel Deployed in Railways: Ministry
More than 2,300 women RPF personnel are deployed in the railways, the ministry informed Parliament.
In reply to a query in the Lok Sabha, Railway Minister Piyush Goyal said that in addition to the existing strength of women Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel, 4,078 female constables and 298 sub-inspectors have been recruited and empanelled, who have started their training, reported PTI.
“Policing on railways being a state subject, prevention of crime, registration of cases, their investigation and maintenance of law and order in railway premises as well as on running trains are the responsibility of the state governments, which they discharge through Government Railway Police (GRP)/District Police,” he said.
SPG Bill Will Restore Its Original Intent, Previous Govts Diluted Law: HM Shah
Home Minister Amit Shah asserted that the SPG (Amendment) Bill will restore the law's original intent as it was enacted in 1988 only to protect the prime minister and former prime minister.
He accused previous governments of amending the original law from time to time to “dilute” it, an apparent reference to the earlier decision to give the elite SPG cover to members of the Gandhi family, which included Sonia Gandhi, Rahul and Priyanka, reported PTI.
Shah added, “SPG cover will also be given to the Prime Minister and his family, living at a residence allotted by the government, for a period of 5 years,” reported ANI.
Over 5,000 Preventive Arrests in J&K Since 5 August, 609 Still in Custody: Govt
Over 5,000 preventive arrests have been made in Jammu and Kashmir since 5 August when the Centre announced abrogation of Article 370 provisions, and 609 of them are still in custody, Union Minister G Kishan Reddy said in Rajya Sabha.
Nobody has died in police firing since 5 August, but 197 people have been injured in law and order incidents, he said, reported PTI.
India Requires 100 More Pilots Every Year: HS Puri
The aviation sector requires around 100 more pilots every year and the government would upgrade its flying training academies to bridge the shortfall.
According to Minister of Civil Aviation Hardeep Singh Puri, there are 32 Flying Training Organisations (FTOs) in the country, which train around 350 pilots every year.
“We require 100 more pilots every year because we are inducting 100 planes, which means around 700 pilots are required,” said Puri in Rajya Sabha, reported PTI.
Enough Spectrum Available to Start 5G Services: Prasad in LS
The spectrum proposed for auction is enough to launch 5G services in the country, the government said.
Industry body Broadband India Forum (BIF), however, has said that quantum of frequency proposed is insufficient to start the next generation mobile services, Ravi Shankar Prasad informed the Lok Sabha in a written reply.
The minister said that 275 megahertz of radiowaves frequency between 3,300-3,400 Mhz and 3,425 to 3,600 Mhz band is available for 5G auction.
“BIF have, in their representation to the Government, stated that the quantum of 5G spectrum that has been allocated for the upcoming 5G spectrum auction is not enough for a country of India's size and density. In DoT's view, the present available spectrum is enough to start the 5G services,” Prasad said, reported PTI.
No Specific Report From J&K of Losses Due to Restrictions: Centre
The government said there was “no specific” report received from Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir about any “new losses” of income and jobs due to restrictions imposed after the abrogation of Article 370 provisions.
The government told Parliament that the people of the region would now be able to realise the “full potential of the economy.”
The people of Jammu and Kashmir have suffered from terrorist violence and separatism supported from across the border for the past many decades and were denied certain constitutional provisions on account of Article 35-A, Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy cited in Rajya Sabha, reported PTI.
Interests of Air India Employees Would Be Protected: Govt in RS
The government said that interests of employees of the state-owned carrier Air India would be protected and there would be no job loss till its privatisation.
Replying to a supplementary question in Rajya Sabha, Minister of Civil Aviation Hardeep Singh Puri also said that the government would secure a fair deal for all of its employees.
He also rejected recent reports suggesting that several pilots of Air India are leaving the airline as their salaries were not being paid on time.
“Air India pilots are very well looked after and their salaries in relation to what other air carriers are offering is very good,” said Puri, according to PTI.
He further said, “So far as the resignations are concerned, I have not heard of any single case where anybody has resigned.”
No Proposal to Reduce Age of Retirement from 60 to 58 Yrs on Superannuation: Jitendra Singh
Jitendra Singh, MoS Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha said, “Presently, there is no proposal to reduce the age of retirement on superannuation from 60 years to 58 years,” reported ANI.
Over 3.13 Lakh Cyber Security Incidents Reported This Year Till Oct
Over 3.13 lakh cyber security incidents including website hacking and phishing attacks, were reported this year till October, Parliament was informed today.
As per the information reported to and tracked by Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), 50,362 and 53,117 cyber security incidents were reported in 2016 and 2017, respectively, Minister of State for Electronics and IT Sanjay Dhotre said in a written reply to the Lok Sabha.
These incidents - which included phishing, network scanning and probing, virus/malicious code and website hacking - increased to 2,08,456 in 2018. In 2019, till October, the number of such incidents stood at 3,13,649, he added.
“In tune with the dynamic nature of Information Technology and emerging cyber threats, continuous efforts are required to be made by owners to protect networks by way of hardening and deploying appropriate security controls,” he said, reported PTI.
'Even Narasimha Rao Didn't Have So Much Problem As Gandhi Family': Shah on SPG Cover
Home Minister Amit Shah in Lok Sabha said, “An effort is being made to paint a picture that government isn't concerned about the security of Gandhi family and that their protection has been withdrawn. Their protection has not been withdrawn but only changed, based on threat assessment.”
He said that even Narasimha Rao who was a part of Congress did not create any ruckus when their SPG cover was withdrawn but the Gandhi family has a lot to say.
GDP Growth at 7.5% Between 2014-19 In Comparison to 6.4% Between 2009-14: Sitharaman
Laying down data on the GDP growth, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Rajya Sabha said, “India's real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth was at 6.4 percent at the end of 2009-2014, whereas between 2014-2019 it was at 7.5 percent.”
“Economic growth may have come down but there is no recession; there will be no recession,” she added.
SPG Amendment Bill Passed in Lok Sabha
Lok Sabha has passed a bill to amend the SPG Act.
According to the amendment, the SPG will now protect the prime minister and members of his immediate family residing with him at his official residence, reported PTI.
LS Passes Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu Bill 2019
Lok Sabha has passed The Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (Merger of Union Territories) Bill 2019, reported ANI.
Oppn MPs Walk out During Sitharaman's Address on Indian Economy
Opposition MPs walked out of Rajya Sabha during Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's reply on economic situation of the country, reported ANI.
Pragya Thakur Refers to Nathuram Godse as 'Deshbhakt' in Lok Sabha
BJP member Pragya Thakur referred to Mahatma Gandhi's assassin Nathuram Godse as a “deshbhakt” during a debate in Lok Sabha, triggering a protest by opposition members.
When DMK member A Raja cited a statement of Godse on why he killed Mahatma Gandhi during a discussion on the Special Protection Group (Amendment) Bill, Thakur interrupted and said, “You cannot give example of a deshbhakt,” reported PTI.
Raja said that Godse himself admitted that he had nursed a grudge against Gandhi for 32 years before finally deciding to assassinate him.
65 Indians Taken Hostage in Various Countries During 2017-19: Govt to LS
As many as 65 Indians were taken hostage in various countries during the period 2017-19, the government informed the Lok Sabha.
In a written reply to a question in the Lower House, Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said during the last few years, the government has undertaken special operations to facilitate return of Indian nationals from conflict and disaster-affected regions.
“As per available information, 65 Indians have been taken hostage in various countries during the last two years and the current year,” he said, reported PTI.
BJP Condemns Pragya Thakur's Remarks on Godse, Drops her From Defence Panel
Cracking the whip on MP Pragya Thakur, the BJP on Thursday barred her from attending its parliamentary party meeting in the ongoing Parliament session and removed her from the consultative committee on defence.
Thakur had, on Wednesday, hailed Mahatma Gandhi's assassin Nathuram Godse in the Lok Sabha as a patriot.
BJP working president JP Nadda announced the disciplinary action against her remarks in a bid to defuse the political crisis brewing in the Lok Sabha, PTI reported.
Opposition MPs Stage Walkout From LS Over Pragya Thakur's Remarks
Congress ,TMC, DMK MPs staged a walkout from the Lok Sabha on Thursday, protesting BJP MP Pragya Singh Thakur’s remarks the day before, referring to Nathuram Godse, Mahatma Gandhi's assassin, as a 'desh bhakt' (patriot).