Amit Shah to Introduce Citizenship Amendment Bill in Lok Sabha
All the live updates from Parliament’s Winter Session.
.jpg?rect=0%2C0%2C2000%2C1125)
A day after Supreme Court granted bail to former finance minister P Chidambaram, he arrived at the Parliament on Thursday, 5 December, to attend the ongoing winter session.
On Wednesday, FM Sitharaman, while discussing supplementary demands for grants, stated that funds allocated for Jammu and Kashmir will have to go through a different head as it become a Union Territory.
- Lok Sabha passed Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Daman & Diu Bill 2019, seeking to merge the two UTs
- Rajya Sabha passed the controversial Transgender (Protection of Rights) Bill 2019 in a joint Parliament session on Constitution Day, 26 November
- On 20 November, Lok Sabha passed Chit Funds (Amendment) Bill, 2019
- The Winter Session will end on 13 December
Amit Shah to Introduce Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB) in Lok Sabha
Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB) to be introduced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the Lok Sabha on Monday, 9 December.
Govt Cannot Suppress My Voice: Chidambaram
Speaking to the reporters, in the Parliament on Thursday, Chidambaram said that the government cannot suppress his voice in the House.
RS Adjourned Till Noon
Rajya Sabha adjourned till noon as chairman disallows members from raising issues not listed for Zero Hour.
Structural Problems, Lack of Advanced Storage Systems: Sitharaman on Decreased Onion Production
NCP leader Supriya Sule asked Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman as to the reason behind the fall in onion production.
Sitharaman said, “I have oevernight passed orders to help with the exports as well. There are structural problems, lack of advanced systems of storage. We are looking at ways to improve post harvest capacity of onions. Undue weather conditions have also majorly affected the production.”
'FDI Net Inflow in 1st Half of 2020 was 20.9 Billion Dollars': FM
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Lok Sabha said, “FDI net inflow in first half 2018-19 was 17 billion dollars and FDI net inflow in first half 2019-20 was 20.9 billion dollars.”
“Government saved Rs 1.41 lakh crore in last 5 yrs on account of Direct Benefit Transfer,” added Sitharaman.
'Sorry If I Hurt Sitharaman, She's Like my Sister': Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on 'Nirbala' Remark
Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, Congress leader in Lok Sabha said, “During a discussion in the House I had addressed our Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman as ‘Nirbala.’ Nirmala ji is like my sister and I am like her brother. If my words have hurt her then I am sorry,” reported ANI.
Parliament Passes Bill to Give Ownership Rights to Residents of 1,731 Unauthorised Delhi Colonies
Parliament today passed a bill to grant ownership rights to residents living in 1,731 unauthorised colonies in Delhi.
The National Capital Territory of Delhi (Recognition of Property Rights of Residents in Unauthorised Colonies) Bill, 2019 was passed by a voice vote in Rajya Sabha.
It was already passed in Lok Sabha on 28 November.
The bill states that there has been a phenomenal increase in the population of the National Capital Territory of Delhi in the last few decades owing to migration and other factors.
However, it says, the development of planned housing colonies has not kept pace with the requirements of burgeoning population which resulted in increase of unauthorised colonies, reported PTI.
Grants for J&K Have to Go Through Different Head Since It's a UT Now: Sitharaman
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Lok Sabha said, “Under the 14th Finance Commission, whatever has been given to Jammu and Kashmir, now has to go along a different line, through a different head after they have been bifurcated into a Union Territory. UTs draw from the Centre's pool.”
Any small change in the budgetary heads, will have to go for approval in the House, hence the J&K issue has come here. They will get whatever they should through the new 15th Finance Commission,” she added.
Inner Line Permit Areas of Arunachal, Nagaland, Mizoram Excluded From Citizenship Bill
After taking into consideration the concerns of Northeastern states, the inner line permit areas of Arunachal, Mizroam and Nagaland and regions under the Sixth Schedule in the North East have been exempted from the Citizenship Amendment Bill, which was cleared by the Union Cabinet today.
Sena Attacks Govt in Lok Sabha Over State of Economy
The Shiv Sena today attacked the government in Lok Sabha over the state of economy, alleging that traders, farmers and the youth are unhappy, reported PTI.
Shiv Sena recently broke ranks with the NDA to form a government in Maharashtra with the support of the Nationalist Congress Party and the Congress.
Hurriyat Activists Behind Stone Pelting in Kashmir: Govt
Separatist groups and activists who are part of the Hurriyat Conference have been behind stone pelting incidents in the Kashmir Valley, Union Minister G Kishan Reddy said.
Inputs indicate that illegal money is being sent through Hawala channels from across the border to finance terror related activities, stone pelting and attack on security forces in Jammu and Kashmir, he said.
No Plan to Conduct NRC Across Country on Religious Lines: Govt
The government said today that there was no plan to conduct the National Register of Citizens (NRC) exercise across the country on religious lines.
Minister of State for Home, gave the information in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha.
P Chidambaram Will Attend Rajya Sabha After Taking Care of Health: Wife
Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram's wife Nalini today welcomed the Supreme Court's order granting him bail in the INX Media money laundering case and said he will attend Parliament's winter session.
He is likely to be released from the Tihar Jail in the evening, she told PTI over phone.
Nalini, who is a senior lawyer, said that she was happy that her husband got the bail. He will start attending Rajya Sabha proceedings after taking care of his health, she said, PTI reported.
Bill on Unauthorised Colonies Introduced in Rajya Sabha
A bill to grant ownership rights to residents living in Delhi's 1,731 unauthorised colonies was introduced in the Rajya Sabha.
Introducing the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Recognition of Property Rights of Residents in Unauthorised Colonies) Bill, 2019 in the House, minister of State for Housing and Urban Development Hardeep Singh Puri said about 40-50 lakh people live in unauthorised colonies in Delhi.
The Lok Sabha had passed the Bill on 28 November.
Puri said the ownership rights will be given to residents of the identified colonies based on five documents.
He said maps of the all the 1,731 colonies will be uploaded on the website of the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) “within days,” reported PTI.
'Salary, Social Obligations Take Away Big Funds of Railways': Piyush Goyal
Railways have been spending an additional Rs 22,000 crore on salaries and pensions of its employees following implementation of the 7th Pay Commission recommendations, which has hit its financial health, Railway Minister Piyush Goyal said in Lok Sabha.
Responding to a question on operational losses of railways, Goyal said construction of new lines and operating trains in economically unviable areas under its social obligations also take away a sizeable amount of its funds.
“After the implementation of 7th Pay Commission recommendations, there has been an over expenditure of Rs 22,000 crore for salaries and pension of railway employees. This has contributed to the overall operating loss,” he added, reported PTI.
3,169 Extremists Surrendered From 2016 to 15 Nov 2019: Reddy
As many as 3,169 Left Wing Extremists have surrendered till 15 November this year from 2016 and there has also been a decline in violence related to extremism, Union Minister G Kishan Reddy said in Rajya Sabha.
Besides there has been a shrinkage in geographical spread of extremism, Minister of State for Home Affairs, Reddy said during Question Hour.
Reddy said a total of 1,442 extremists surrendered in 2016, followed by 685 and 644 in 2017 and 2018 respectively besides 398 this year till 15 November, PTI reported.
Data of 20 out of 121 WhatsApp Users Targeted Using Pegasus May Have Been Accessed: Prasad
The government said personal data of 20 WhatsApp users out of the 121 users targeted using Pegasus spyware may have been accessed by the attacker.
Facebook-owned Whatsapp had said that Indian journalists and human rights activists were among those globally spied upon by unnamed entities using Pegasus spyware.
“WhatsApp continues to review the available information. It also mentioned that WhatsApp believes it is likely that personal data within the WhatsApp app of approximately twenty users may have been accessed out of approximately one hundred and twenty one users in India whose devices the attacker attempted to reach,” Prasad said in Lok Sabha, reported PTI.
Total FDI Inflow Into India Increased in 2018-19: Govt
The FDI inflow into India has increased in the last fiscal in comparison to previous years with USD 62 billion foreign investments in 2018-19, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said in Lok Sabha.
Goyal's response came in response to a question by Congress MP Abdul Khaleque on whether the Foreign Direct Investments into India have declined in 2018-19 as compared to the previous years.
'Govt Aware of the Matter': Amit Shah on Committee Formed to Combat Lynchings
Home Minister Amit Shah in Rajya Sabha on mob lynching cases said, “To tackle this issue and to invite suggestions, government had created a committee of ministers. The committee has held a meeting and government is aware of the matter. Action in such cases is taken under section 300 and 302 of Indian Penal Code,” reported ANI.
Chidambaram to Attend Parliament Tomorrow
After getting bail in the INX Media money laundering case, former finance minister will attend the parliament on Thursday, 5 December, his son Karti Chidambaram told news agency ANI.
Over 92,000 BSNL, MTNL Employees Opted for VRS: RS Prasad in Lok Sabha
Taking questions on the situation of state-owned telecom operators, BSNL and MTNL, Union Minister Ravi Shankarr Prasad, on Wednesday, 4 December, said that over 92,000 BSNL and MTNL employees have opted for the Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS).
Union Cabinet Clears Citizenship Amendment Bill
The Union Cabinet, on Wednesday 4 December cleared the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill for citizenship to non-Muslims from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.
On Tuesday, 3 December, the Rajya Sabha passed the Special Protection Group (Amendment) Bill 2019, amid a walkout from the Congress party. Home Minister Amit Shah stated that the bill being brought up in the House by keeping the Gandhi family in mind.
The Ministry of Home Affairs said in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, 3 December, that incidents of terrorist violence declined after the abrogation of Article 370, while number of infiltration attempts rose.
Union Cabinet Extends Reservation in Lok Sabha by 10 Years
The Union Cabinet, on Wednesday, 4 December, approved the proposal to extend the SC/ST reservation for Lok Sabha and State Assemblies which was to expire on 25 January.
It has been extended for the next 10 years.
AAP MP Moves Suspension of Business Notice Over Onion Prices
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Sanjay Singh has given Suspension of Business Notice in Rajya Sabha over 'rising price of onions.'
Cong Chief Whip Gives Adjournment Motion Over Chinese Vessel in Indian Ocean
Congress Chief Whip in Lok Sabha, Kodikunnil Suresh has given an Adjournment Motion Notice in Lok Sabha over the issue of 'Chinese intrusion reported in Andaman and Nicobar islands'.
LS Adjourned for the Day
The Lok Sabha has been adjourned for the day.
Parliament Passes Bill to Merge UTs Daman and Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli
The Parliament on Tuesday passed a bill which seeks to merge two Union Territories — Daman and Diu, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli — into one unit.
The Rajya Sabha passed the Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (Merger of Union Territories) Bill 2019 through voice vote. Lok Sabha had passed this bill on 27 November.
Shah's Remarks That No Pardon Has Been Given to Rajoana Very Unfortunate: Sad
The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) termed as “very unfortunate” the statement of Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Parliament that no pardon has been given to Balwant Singh Rajoana, who was convicted for the assassination of then Punjab chief minister Beant Singh in 1995, reported PTI.
SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal said the remarks has caused “pain and anguish” to the Sikh community, adding a party delegation will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Shah to take up the matter with them. The SAD is an ally of the BJP at the Centre.
Bill Seeking to Regulate Recycling of Ships Gets Lok Sabha Nod
A bill which seeks to regulate recycling of ships according to international standards was passed by Lok Sabha today.
The Recycling of Ships Bill 2019 was passed by voice vote with Union minister Mansukh Mandaviya asserting that the proposed law will help the ship recycling industry and generate more jobs, reported PTI.
While most of the amendments moved by opposition members were withdrawn, some which were tabled were defeated.
RS Adjourned Till Tomorrow
The Rajya Sabha has been adjourned.
Rise Above Party Politics on SPG Issue: Congress
The Congress party had opposed the bill to amend the SPG Act in Rajya Sabha today, saying it was not in the interest of democracy and a right step in the national interest.
Participating in the debate over the Special Protection Group (Amendment) Bill 2019, Congress MP Vivek Tankha said everyone wants the Gandhi family to be protected and there should not be “a party politics” over it.
“What kind of democracy it is? You are putting the opposition to threat,” said Tankha, reminding the House about the fateful incidents in which Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi were killed.
Ships Recycling Bill Will Boost India's Business: Govt
A bill that seeks to regulate recycling of ships according to international standards will further boost the ship-breaking business in India, after Parliament passes it, Union minister Mansukh Mandaviya told Lok Sabha today.
However, Congress member Hibi Eden opposed the Recycling of Ships Bill, questioning the “hurry” with which the government had brought it and cautioning that India's rivals in the business like Pakistan, Bangladesh and China may benefit at its cost, reported PTI.
Working Conditions of Labour Must Be Overseen: Premchandran in LS
RSP MP NK Premchandran in Lok Sabha said, “Cheap labor has made India a favorable destination for recycling ships but nothing has been done for their social upliftment. independent authority should be established to oversee workingWorking Condition conditions of labor.”
Kishan Reddy Introduces Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Daman & Diu Bill 2019 in RS
Minister of State G. Kishan Reddy has introduced the Bill to merge the Union Territories of Dadra and Nagra Haveli and Daman and Diu in Rajya Sabha.
The Bill was passed by Lok Sabha last week.
'Ordered High-Level Probe': Amit Shah on Security Breach at Priyanka Gandhi's House
Talking about the breach of security at Priyanka Gandhi’s house, Home Minister Amit Shah said, “Priyanka Gandhi got information that Rahul Gandhi was coming to meet her in black SUV, but another black SUV came at the same time which had Meerut Congress leader Sharda Tyagi in it.”
He added, “The car and timing were same, such was the coincidence. That's why the car with Sharda Tyagi went in without security check. Then also, we have ordered high-level probe and suspended three officers responsible for breach.”
Security Breach at Priyanka's Residence Shows PM Modi, HM Shah Putting Lives at Risk: Cong
The Congress attacked the government over the security breach at party leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's residence in Delhi, alleging that the incident showed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah had put the lives of its leaders at risk.
The opposition party also said it wanted to protest inside Parliament over the issue as the home minister had told the Lok Sabha that adequate security will be provided to the Gandhi family, despite the withdrawal of the SPG (Special Protection Group) cover, reported PTI.
SPG Bill 2019 Passed in Rajya Sabha
The Special Protection Group (Amendment) Bill, 2019 passed by Rajya Sabha. Congress had staged walkout from the House.
'SPG Cover From Gandhis Withdrawn After Threat Assessment': Amit Shah
Home Minister Amit Shah in Rajya Sabha on SPG Bill said, “It's not true that we have brought the SPG Bill by keeping only Gandhi family in mind. Security from Gandhis was withdrawn after the threat assessment analysis even before bringing this bill.”
Shah stated that SPG cover is only meant for the head of the state, and not for anybody else. He said, “This is the 5th amendment in the SPG Act. This amendment is not brought in by keeping Gandhis in mind, but, one thing that I can say for sure is that the previous 4 amendments were done by keeping only one family in mind.”
“Even PM Modi's SPG cover will be removed after 5 years so it's a disadvantage to him also,” he added.
'SPG Bill Driven by Political Vendetta,' Says CPI Leader in RS
Binoy Viswaam, CPI leader called the SPG (Amendment) Bill 2019 based on political vendetta.
Speaking in Rajya Sabha, he said the government's reason of cost effectiveness behind the Bill is unnecessary as lakhs of crores of money is being wasted through NPAs. “It is their vendetta against Nehru, his principals, that they are bringing this Bill,” he said.
No Job Losses Post Merger of 10 PSBs: Govt
The government today assured the Rajya Sabha that merger of 10 public sector banks will not lead to any job losses and employees' interest will be protected.
In August, the government announced a mega plan to merge 10 public sector banks into four with a view to creating fewer and stronger global-sized lenders with robust balance sheets that can be used to boost credit and spur growth.
During the Question Hour, Minister of State for Finance Anurag Singh Thakur said lending and other banking services to eastern states will be improved after two Kolkata-based banks are merged, PTI reported.
State Govt Departments Owe Rs 41,700 Cr to Distribution Companies: Power Minister
Union Power Minister RK Singh had said in the Rajya Sabha that state government departments owe about Rs 41,700 crore to power distribution companies and asked states to ensure payments are made on time.
The minister also informed that aggregate technical and commercial (AT&C) losses have come down to about 18 percent from 22 percent.
“As a result of UDAY, some improvement has happened. The losses in AT&C have come down from 22 percent to about 18 percent. So there has been some progress, though the progress could have been better,” said Singh, reported PTI.
'Where's the Threat to the Gandhi Family?' Asks BJP MP
Narasimha Rao, BJP in Rajya Sabha said, “If there's one leader in the world who is the most targeted today, it's the Prime Minister of India. The focus should be to protect the PM, and not be diluted in any manner.”
“Islamic terrorism, jihad, Maoists, naxalism, these are the threats to the country. I don't see the Opposition facing these. I thought there will be logic behind their argument to defend SPF protection. Where is the threat to the Gandhi family?” he added.
As Rao said that he strongly condemned the death of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, he added, “The family never faced any kind of terrorism.” It immediately created an uproar in the parliament over his statements.
It's 'Make in India,' Not 'Dump in India': Supriya Sule
While discussing the Recycling of Ships Bill, NCP leader Supriya Sule said, “Your intention may be good, but before implementing these kind of rules or laws, it must be discussed properly. This is not 'Make in India,' this is 'Dump in India.'
SPG (Amendment) Bill Tabled In Rajya Sabha
Home Minister Amit Shah tabled the Special Protection Group (Amendment) Bill, 2019 in the Rajya Sabha. Meanwhile, the Lok Sabha has taken up the Recycling of Ships Bill for discussion.
Rajya Sabha Adjourned Till 2 pm
The Rajya Sabha has been adjourned till 2 pm on Tuesday, 3 December.
Terrorist Violence Down, Infiltration Attempts Up Since 5 August: MHA in LS
The Ministry of Home Affairs told Lok Sabha that incidents of terrorist violence declined after the abrogation of Article 370. From 5 August 2019 to 27 November 2019, there have been 88 such incidents as compared to 106 such incidents from 12 April 2019 to 4 Aug 2019, it said.
However, it said there has been increase in the number of infiltration attempts from across the border. During the 88 day period from 5 August 2019 - 31 October 2019 there have been 84 such attempts as against 53 such attempts from 9 May 2019 - 4 August 2019.
The Ministry also said 19 civilians, including non-Kashmiri labourers, were killed in terror related incidents since 5 August, 2019.
Row in Lok Sabha Over Adhir Ranjan's 'Nirbala' Remark
BJP demanded an apology for Opposition leader Adhir Ranjan's 'Nirbala' remark in the Lok Sabha. Chowdhury had earlier said that Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman should instead be called 'Nirbala'.
Congress MPs Stage Walk-Out in Lok Sabha on Onion Price Issue
Congress Members of Parliament staged a walk-out in the Lok Sabha on the Issue of soaring onion prices.
SPG Amendment Bill, Priyanka Security Breach Likely to be Raised in RS
Home Minister Amit Shah is set to table the amended Special Protection Group Bill, 2019 (SPG bill) in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday.
The Congress is also likely to raise the security breach issue in the Rajya Sabha, after some unknown persons reportedly barged into Priyanka Gandhi's residence and asked for selfies on 26 November.
Cong, IUML Give Adjournment Motion Notices Over Onion Prices
The Congress and the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) gave adjournment motion notices in Lok Sabha over the 'rising prices of onions'.
TMC Gives Adjournment Motion Notice over Cyclone Bulbul
Trinamool Congress (TMC) gave an Adjournment Motion Notice in Lok Sabha over 'heavy loss of lives & properties due to cyclone Bulbul in West Bengal'.
Meanwhile Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) gave an Adjournment Motion Notice in Lok Sabha over 'economic recession and unprecedented job loss in information technology sector'.
Lok Sabha's Housing Committee Issues Notice to Former MPs to Vacate Residences
The Housing Committee of Lok Sabha has issued notices to three former MPs — Maganti Murali Mohan of TDP, Manohar Untwal of BJP and K Gopal of the AIADMK, to vacate the government residences they are currently occupying.
Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha Adjourned Till 11 am Tomorrow
Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha has been adjourned till 11 am on Tuesday.
BJP Demands Apology From Chowdhury for Calling Modi, Shah ‘Infiltrators’
BJP Ministers and members protested in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha against Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury's remarks calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah “infiltrators” and demanded that he apologise, saying they will not tolerate such an “insult.”
Members of treasury benches were on their feet in Lok Sabha as Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi attacked the Leader of the Congress in the House and then took a swipe at the party over its President Sonia Gandhi's foreign origin, reported PTI.
BJP Parliamentary Party Meet Tomorrow in Delhi
BJP Parliamentary Party meeting will be held tomorrow at Parliament Library Building in Delhi.
LS Passes Taxation Laws (Amendment) Bill 2019
The Taxation Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2019 has been passed by Lok Sabha.
Gross Direct Tax Collection Rises by 5% Till Nov: FM Sitharaman
“Gross direct tax collection increased by 5 percent till November,” Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said as she allayed fears of corporate tax reduction impacting revenue collection.
Replying to a debate on Taxation Law Amendment Bill 2019 in the Lok Sabha, the minister categorically said there is no decrease in direct tax collection, reported PTI.
'I Am, Always Will Be Nirmala': Sitharaman Gets Back at Adhir Chowdhary over 'Nirbala' Jibe
Responding to Adhir Ranjan Chowdhary's comments of calling her 'Nirbala,' Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said, “I am Nirmala and I shall remain Nirmala Sitharaman. I don't know how you say it but this government will be heavy on them, it will be a 'bala' for them.”
Talking about corporate tax she added, “We're called 'suit-boot ki sarkaar' again and again. We're told that lowering corporate tax helps only rich. I want to tell them that corporate tax cut helps all small and big businesses registered according to Companies Act.”
'Wait for My Term to End,' Says Sitharaman on Being Called 'Worst Finance Min'
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Lok Sabha said, “I have been told that I am the worst Finance Minister, they're not even waiting for me to finish my term. I told them that please give me more ideas, we will work on it. If there's a government that listens, it is PM Modi's government.”
Talkng about the Corporate tax, she said, “All the businesses registered under Company Act will be benefited from this proposed corporate tax cut.”
Selling PSUs to Recover From Fiscal Deficit Is Wrong: TDP's Jayadev Galla
TDP MP Jayadev Galla said that selling PSUs to recover from fiscal deficit is a wrong step.
“By doing this, a time will come when there will be no PSUs to sell,” said Galla.
“Demand and consumption are declining. By putting more cash in the hands of the people, the government should also give individual tax relief to the citizens.”
'GDP Will Lose Its Importance With Time': BJP MP Nishkant Dubey
BJP MP Nishikant Dubey in Lok Sabha said, “Don't look up to GDP as Bible, Ramayan or Mahabharat. GDP will lose its importance with time.”
He added, “In today’s world, sustainable development, economic welfare of the people is more important to consider. More than GDP, it is important that we have indices such as an happiness index to see whether people are really happy.”
Supriya Sule Questions Govt on Inflation, Tax Reforms
NCP leader Supriya Sule, while speaking in Lok Sabha said, “Inflation is going up, food inflation is going up and only three months are left, I don't understand how is the government going to stop it.”
Talking about the tax reforms, she posed a question to the Centre, “Why can't we have a holistic approach on tax reforms at one time instead of in installments?”
Corporate Tax Only Helps the Profitable Become More Profitable: TMC's Mahua Moitra
Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra in Lok Sabha said, “The (corporate) tax cut that you have proposed only helps the profitable become more profitable. It does not do anything to revive a very large part of this economy which is struggling,” reported ANI.
Wonder If We Should Call You Nirbala (Weak) Sitharaman: Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury in LS
Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury in Lok Sabha said, “Sometimes I wonder if instead of calling you Nirmala Sitharaman, we should call you Nirbala (weak) Sitharaman. You hold the post of a minister yet it's not clear whether you can speak your mind.”
'FM Sitharaman Does Not Have Long-Term Vision': Adhir RanjanChowdhury
Speaking in Lok Sabha, Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said, “Our finance minister does not have any long-term vision, mission and perspective. Hence, she has always resorted to knee-jerk, panic measures to improve the weakening economy.”
He added that the finance minister should reduce GST to induce demand.
Duel in LS Over Adhir Ranjan's Comments on Modi, Shah
Lok Sabha was adjourned till 2:15 pm amid din as Cong leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury sought to explain his remarks against PM Narendra Modi and Amit Shah.
Chowdhury on Sunday, 1 December raked up a political storm as he called Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah “ghuspaithiye” (infiltrators) and migrants in Delhi.
The BJP has demanded an unconditional apology.
Nearly 78% Depositors of PMC Bank Can Withdraw Entire Account Balance: FM
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the Lok Sabha referring to the Punjab and Maharashtra Corporation bank scam said that nearly 78 percent of depositors of the bank are now allowed to withdraw their entire account balance.
She also said that in case of medical emergencies, marriages and other crisis situations, a depositor of PMC Bank can withdraw up to Rs 1 lakh.
Hyderabad Rape & Murder Case Set to Be Broached in Lok Sabha
The issue of the rape and murder of the Hyderabad veterinarian is set to be raised in the Lok Sabha on Monday, 2 December, after Speaker Om Birla said the Parliament is concerned about “the incidents are occurring in the nation.”
“I have given permission for discussion on this after Question Hour,” he said, according to ANI.
'Did Not Call Godse a Deshbhakt': Pragya Thakur 'Apologises' Again
BJP MP Pragya Thakur reiterated in the Lok Sabha on Friday, 29 November, “I did not call Nathuram Godse a 'deshbhakt'. I did not even mention his name. I apologise again if I have hurt any sentiments.”
'If Sentiments Were Hurt by Any of My Remarks, I Apologise': Pragya Thakur
BJP’s Pragya Thakur in Lok Sabha on Friday, 29 November, said, “If anyone is hurt due to any of my statements, I express my regret and apologise. But, my statements were misunderstood and distorted. I respect Mahatma Gandhi's contribution to the nation.”
She added that calling her a terrorist is an insult to her dignity as a woman and is "against the law" since no charges against her have been proven.
The Congress, however, demanded an unqualified apology.
Exempt Manipur From Citizenship Amendment Bill: BJP MP
BJP MP from Manipur Rajkumar Ranjan Singh requested the Home Ministry to exempt the northeastern state from the purview of the Citizenship Amendment Bill.
Speaking during the Zero Hour in the Lok Sabha, the parliamentarian from Inner Manipur constituency said he would like to draw the attention of the Government of India to the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill that is going to be placed in the ongoing winter session.
“There is a lot of hue and cry in my state of Manipur. People are apprehensive of this new citizenship law. They believe that if this new law is enacted, there will be huge influx of migrants in the state,” he said, reported PTI.
TMC MP Nusrat Jahan Demands Railway Line Extension to Increase Tourism
Nusrat Jahan, TMC MP in Lok Sabha said, “I demand a railway line extension in Basirhat from Hasnabad to Samsernagar, Hingalganj under Eastern Railway. The proposal is important for the greater interest of tourism in that area and livelihood of thousands of people living there,” reported ANI.
LS Passes Bill to Grant Ownership Rights to Residents of Delhi's 1,731 Unauthorised Colonies
The Lok Sabha on Thursday passed a bill to grant ownership rights to residents living in Delhi's 1,731 unauthorised colonies.
The bill was passed by a voice vote and some amendments moved by opposition members were defeated, reported PTI.
Over 1,500 Cases of Child Marriage Reported Between 2013-17: Smriti Irani
Over 1,500 cases of child marriage have been reported between 2013-2017, Women and Child Development minister Smriti Irani said.
In response to a query in Rajya Sabha, Irani presented the five year data according to which the highest number of cases was recorded in 2017 at 395 while in 2016 the number of cases received were 326, reported PTI.
'Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas' Reflected in India's Policies: Jaishankar
External Affairs Minister Jaishankar in Rajya Sabha said, “This government has a comprehensive foreign policy outlook that reflects both the state of the world and India's growing role in it.”
He added, “The ‘Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas’ principle is reflected in our policies.”
Bill to Regularise Unauthorised Colonies Brought With Ill-Intention of Wooing Voters: AAP
The AAP questioned BJP's motive behind introducing a bill to regularise unauthorised colonies in Delhi ahead of assembly elections due early next year and alleged that the proposed legislation was brought with the “ill-intention” of wooing people living in such areas.
Giving the slogan — 'Jhase mein nahi aayenge Kejriwal ko jeetayenge' (Will not come tricked, will make Kejriwal win), AAP spokesperson Raghav Chadha questioned the BJP's intentions on bringing the bill just before the assembly elections.
“The Centre was sitting on the bill for the past four years even when we completed all formalities from our side (Delhi government) years ago and woke up right before the polls,” he told reporters., according to PTI.
AAP Couldn't Even Demarcate Unauthorised Delhi Colonies for 2 Years: Manoj Tiwari
Lashing out at the Delhi AAP government on the unauthorised colony, Delhi BJP MP Manoj Tiwari said that the Delhi government couldn't even make demarcation of unauthorised colonies for two years.
He said that it is only because of the PM Modi government that migrants in Delhi today will live in authorised colonies and people will have registered houses in their names.
BJP Attacks Successive Delhi Govts Over Unauthorised Colonies; Draws Cong's Ire
BJP member Ramesh Bidhuri attacked successive Delhi governments for allegedly failing to extend ownership rights to people residing in unauthorised colonies in the national capital, drawing a sharp response from the Congress.
Participating in the debate in Lok Sabha on a bill which seeks to grant ownership rights to residents of 1,731 unauthorised colonies, he targeted various city governments, reported PTI.
No Plans by IT Ministry for Censorship of Content on Online Streaming Platforms: Dhotre
The electronics and IT ministry has no plans to introduce censorship on content appearing on online streaming platforms, Parliament was informed.
The government is committed to freedom of speech and expression and to citizen's privacy, as enshrined in the Constitution of India, Minister of State for Electronics and IT Sanjay Dhotre said in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, reported ANI.
RS Passes Chit Fund Amendment Bill 2019
The Chit Fund Amendment Bill 2019 has been passed in Rajya Sabha, reported ANI.
The Bill was passed by voice vote in the House. The bill got Lok Sabha's nod on 20 November.
The maximum chit amount is proposed to be 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.
Maps for 1,731 Unauthorised Delhi Colonies Will Be Uploaded Before 31 Dec: HS Puri
Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri in Lok Sabha said, “The digital maps for all 1,731 unauthorised colonies of Delhi will be uploaded on the new portal well before 31 December,” reported ANI.
50 MPs Write to LS Speaker to Censure Pragya Thakur for 'Godse' Remark
Fifty MPs including Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, Dayanidhi Maran, Manicka Tagore, NK Premachandran have given a letter to the Speaker, Lok Sabha stating, “The House resolves to censure Pragya Thakur for having insulted Mahatma Gandhi, by calling Nathuram Godse a 'deshbhakt' in the House,” reported ANI.
'WhatsApp Reviewing Availabe Info, Might Not Know Full Intent of Attack': Ravi Shankar Prasad
Talking about the WhatsApp 'soonping' row, Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad in Rajya Sabha said, “On 5 September 2019, WhatsApp wrote to CERT-In providing update to the security incident reported in May 2019 stating that while the full extent of this attack may never be known, WhatsApp continues to review the available info.”
He added it also mentioned that based on WhatsApp data available, the conclusion was reached that the attackers may have attempted to reach the devices of approximately 121 users in India.
He continued, “Digital players, both Indian and foreign are welcomed to contribute in growing market but must understand that safety and security of Indians is of prime importance. They must erect appropriate security walls to ensure this, or appropriate action will be taken,” reported ANI.
Congress & Other UPA Parties to Move Censure Motion Against Pragya Thakur
The Congress and other constituents of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) are set to move a censure motion in the Lok Sabha against BJP MP Pragya Thakur for her remarks calling Mahatma Gandhi's assassin Nathuram Godse a patriot, sources told PTI on Thursday, 28 November.
The Congress is spearheading the motion that seeks to censure her for her "unwarranted remarks" on Godse and against the party, the sources said.
Congress MPs and Lok Sabha MPs of other UPA constituents including the DMK, NCP, RJD, IUML and some other parties are being procured to move the motion before Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, they said.
(At The Quint, we are answerable only to our audience. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member. Because the truth is worth it.)