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Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha conclude 2025 Winter Session, passing crucial bills including MNREGA repeal and election reforms, with high member participation and Zero Hour activity.

Parliament concludes productive winter session; Rajya Sabha 121%, Lok Sabha 111%

Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha conclude 2025 Winter Session, passing crucial bills including MNREGA repeal and election reforms, with high member participation and Zero Hour activity.

The 269th session of the Rajya Sabha concluded on Friday, with Chairman and Vice-President of India CP Radhakrishnan delivering his valedictory address. The winter session, he noted, was particularly significant as it marked his first time presiding over the House.
&ldquo;I thank the Prime Minister, Ministers, J.P. Nadda, Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge, and all Members for their felicitations. Your encouragement is a source of great motivation,&rdquo; he said, expressing gratitude for the support he received during the session.
The Chairman acknowledged the cooperation of Members, highlighting their willingness to work late and skip lunch recess on five occasions to complete business. &ldquo;This session witnessed an unprecedented number of Zero Hour Notices, averaging over 84 per day, a 31% increase compared to previous sessions,&rdquo; he said, adding that matters raised during Zero Hour averaged more than 15 per day&mdash;nearly a 50% increase from earlier sessions.
&ldquo;We must keep up the good work, keeping in mind that the people of this great nation look up to us as custodians of democracy,&rdquo; Radhakrishnan added.
The session featured several high-profile debates. A two-day discussion commemorating the 150th anniversary of the National Song Vande Mataram saw participation from 82 Members, while a three-day debate on Election Reforms involved 57 Members. &ldquo;You have all positively responded to my call to spend every day, every hour, every minute, every second of our time in the House to strengthen our democracy by meaningful debates and discussions,&rdquo; the Chairman said.
Legislative business included the passage or return of eight Bills and adoption of a Statutory Resolution regarding the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Act, 2024, with 212 Members taking part. Private Members&rsquo; Business also remained active, with 59 Bills introduced and one Bill and one Resolution discussed by 22 Members.
Over the course of the session, the House met for approximately 92 hours, achieving a productivity rate of 121%. During this period, 58 Starred Questions, 208 Zero Hour submissions, and 87 Special Mentions were addressed. The Chairman also recognized the support of the Deputy Chairman, the Panel of Vice-Chairpersons, the Secretary-General and staff, as well as the media for their coverage.
Radhakrishnan, however, expressed concern over unruly conduct by some opposition Members in the previous day&rsquo;s sitting, citing shouting, displaying placards, and throwing papers in the well of the House. He urged Members to maintain decorum in future proceedings.
Concluding his remarks, he extended greetings to all Members and their families for Christmas, New Year, and upcoming harvest festivals, including Lohri, Makar Sankranti, Pongal, and Magh Bihu.
Simultaneously, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla concluded the ongoing session of the 18th Lok Sabha after 15 sittings. He highlighted the active participation of Members, productive debates, and legislative business, noting that the House achieved a productivity rate of 111%.&nbsp;
The Speaker also thanked Members for their cooperation and stressed that meaningful discussions are essential to strengthening India&rsquo;s parliamentary democracy.

Rajya Sabha Chairman C P Radhakrishnan condemns unruly behaviour by opposition MPs during passage of VB-G RAM G Bill, urges introspection, highlights productive Winter Session.

Rajya Sabha Chairman Criticizes Opposition Disruptions in Winter Session

Disruptions in Rajya Sabha & Key Winter Session Highlights

Rajya Sabha Chairman C P Radhakrishnan condemns unruly behaviour by opposition MPs during passage of VB-G RAM G Bill, urges introspection, highlights productive Winter Session.

Rajya Sabha Chairman C P Radhakrishnan on Friday strongly disapproved of disruptions by Opposition members during the passage of the rural employment guarantee bill (G RAM G), terming the conduct "unbecoming of Members of Parliament", and urged them to introspect and refrain from such behaviour in future.
Radhakrishnan read out a synopsis of the legislative and other business transacted during the 15-day sitting of the Winter session before adjourning the proceedings sine die.
Adjourned sine die (Latin for &lsquo;without a day') means suspending a parliamentary session indefinitely, without setting a specific date to reconvene. It's used when legislative bodies end a session without naming a future date for reassembly.
The Winter session of Parliament started on December 1.
"Disruption created during yesterday's sitting by the Opposition Members by shouting slogans, displaying placards, disrupting the Minister replying to the discussion, tearing up papers and throwing them in the well of the House showed conduct unbecoming of Members of Parliament. I earnestly hope that Hon'ble Members would introspect and not repeat such unruly behaviour in future," he said.
The Rajya Sabha sat past midnight on Thursday to pass legislation that replaced the 20-year-old rural employment scheme -- the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MNREGA) -- by boosting the number of guaranteed workdays to 125, up from the current 100 days per household for unskilled manual labour.
Opposition MPs protested the dropping of the name of the Father of the Nation from the new legislation, Guarantee for Employment and Livelihood Mission - Rural (Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission - Rural).
Other than that, the 269th Session of the Upper House was "highly productive", registering 121 per cent productivity with sittings spanning about 92 hours, he said.
Delivering his valedictory remarks, Radhakrishnan said the Winter Session was significant as it marked his first stint presiding over the House after assuming office. He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Leader of the House J P Nadda, and Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge for their felicitations.
"The warmth and affection in your felicitations proved a source of great encouragement for me as I sat down discharging my constitutional responsibility as the Chairman of this august House," he said.
He said that in his first address, he sought the cooperation of members for the smooth functioning of the House. "I am happy that Hon&rsquo;ble Members cooperated with the Chair to complete a significant amount of Business during this Winter Session."
The Chairman noted that the House agreed to extend sittings or skip lunch recess on five days to transact business. He said the session recorded an unprecedented rise in Zero Hour activity, with an average of over 84 notices received daily -- a 31 per cent increase over the previous two sessions -- while matters actually raised averaged more than 15 per day, up nearly 50 per cent.
Highlighting the quality of deliberations, Radhakrishnan said the House held a two-day special discussion on the 150th anniversary of the national song Vande Mataram, with 82 members participating. A three-day discussion on electoral reforms saw interventions from 57 members.
During the session, the Rajya Sabha passed or returned eight Bills and adopted a statutory resolution on the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Act, 2024, with participation from 212 members. As many as 59 Private Members' Bills were introduced, reflecting what he described as the "vibrancy of parliamentary democracy".
The Chairman also cited 58 starred questions, 208 Zero Hour submissions and 87 special mentions during the session, and said he issued a detailed ruling clarifying the scope of Rule 267.
Radhakrishnan thanked the Deputy Chairman, members of the panel of vice-chairpersons, the Rajya Sabha Secretariat and the media for their role in ensuring the smooth conduct of proceedings.

The Lok Sabha concluded its Winter Session, passing important legislation including the VB-G RAM G Bill and civil nuclear sector reforms. Engaging debates and high efficiency marked the session, which Speaker Om Birla noted for its 111% productivity.

Lok Sabha Winter Session Ends: Key Legislation Passed

The Lok Sabha's Winter Session concluded with landmark bills on civil nuclear participation and a new employment guarantee replacing MNREGA. High productivity marked the session, which featured significant debates and legislative introductions, ensuring future developments.

Lok Sabha Session Wrap-Up: Key Bills and Debates

Lok Sabha concluded its 19-day Winter Session, passing key bills including MNREGA repeal, VB-G RAM G, SHANTI Bill, and insurance sector reforms amid opposition protests.

Lok Sabha was adjourned sine die on Friday, drawing curtains on the 19-day-long Winter Session of Parliament which saw the passage of crucial Bills, including one to repeal the 20-year-old MNREGA and another on opening up the civil nuclear sector for private participation.
As soon as the House met for the day, Speaker Om Birla read out his brief valedictory address, noting that the productivity of Lok Sabha during the session was registered at 111 per cent with members sitting till late hours to discuss crucial legislations.
He then adjourned the House sine die (for indefinite period), drawing curtains on the brief session that commenced on December 1.
When Birla was reading out his valedictory statement, some members were heard raising "Mahatma Gandhi ki jai" slogans.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was present when the proceedings were adjourned.
During the 15 sittings of the Winter Session, the House took up two politically-charged debates -- on 150 years of Vande Matram and election reforms.
A debate listed on air pollution, which was to be initiated by Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi, could not take place.
The opposition had been insisting on a debate on the Election Commission's ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter list in 12 states and UTs but the government made it clear that poll panel and its functioning cannot be discussed in the House, and agreed to hold a debate on election reforms instead.
The opposition, however, focussed its attack on SIR, the new law on appointment of chief election commissioner and election commissioners, and the alleged 'vote chori' carried out by the poll authority in connivance with the ruling BJP.
The Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) or VB-G RAM G Bill, assuring 125 days of guaranteed jobs for rural India, was passed amid opposition protests on Thursday, including tearing of papers.
The Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill, which seeks to open the tightly-controlled civil nuclear sector for private participation, was also passed during the session.
The Lok Sabha also passed a Bill to raise FDI in the insurance sector to 100 per cent from the current 74 per cent, which is expected to increase insurance penetration, lower premiums, and boost job creation.
The Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha (Amendment of Insurance Laws) Bill, 2025, was cleared by the Rajya Sabha with a voice vote, a day after it was passed by the Lok Sabha.
The House also passed a Bill to repeal 65 Amendment Acts and six principal laws, which had lost relevance.
A Bill to set up a higher education regulator -- the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhisthan Bill, 2025 -- was referred to a joint committee of the two Houses.
The Bill seeks to establish an overarching higher education commission along with three councils for regulation, accreditation and ensuring academic standards for universities and higher education institutions in India.
Another Bill on the market securities code was introduced and referred to a department-related standing committee for further examination.

The Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha (Amendment of Insurance Laws) Bill, 2025, was introduced in Lok Sabha to raise FDI in the insurance sector to 100%, amid strong opposition protests.

Govt introduces bill in Lok Sabha to hike FDI in insurance sector to 100 per cent

The Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha (Amendment of Insurance Laws) Bill, 2025, was introduced in Lok Sabha to raise FDI in the insurance sector to 100%, amid strong opposition protests.

A bill seeking to raise FDI in the insurance sector to 100 per cent was on Tuesday introduced in the Lok Sabha amid strong protest from the Opposition.
The Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha (Amendment of Insurance Laws) Act, 2025, seeks to amend Insurance Act, 1938, Life Insurance Corporation Act, 1956, and Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority Act, 1999, as per the bill circulated to members of Parliament.
Introducing the bill, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the common people's insurance has always been the focus of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the central government has provided insurance to the marginal sections of the society even during the Covid pandemic.
Sitharaman said objections of some of the Opposition members could be part of the debate and she was ready to answer all their questions during the debate on the proposed legislation.
Opposing the introduction of the bill, RSP member N K Premachandran said the nomenclature of the bill has nothing to do with its contents. He also opposed the proposal to allow 100 per cent FDI in the insurance sector.
DMK member T Sumathy too strongly opposed 100 per cent FDI in the sector.
TMC member Saugata Roy said the name of the bill looks like the slogans of the ruling coalition and such names should not be part of any bill. He said allowing 100 per cent FDI will be a backward step in the insurance sector.
According to the draft bill, the amendment will raise Foreign Direct Investment limit in the insurance sector from 74 per cent to 100 per cent.
Though the bill proposes to hike FDI in the sector, one of the top officials &mdash; Chairman, Managing Director, or CEO &mdash; must be an Indian citizen. It also paves the way for the merger of a non-insurance company with an insurance company.
The bill received the Union Cabinet's nod on Friday, paving the way for its introduction in Parliament.
The bill further aims to accelerate the growth and development of the insurance sector and to ensure better protection of policyholders, as per the statement of objects and reasons.
It provides for the establishment of the Policyholders' Education and Protection Fund to protect policyholders' interests.
It would also improve the ease of doing business for insurance companies, intermediaries, and other stakeholders, bring transparency to regulation-making, and enhance regulatory oversight over the sector.
With regard to the term of office of the Chairperson and other whole-time members, the bill provides for a five-year term or until they attain the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier. At present, the upper age limit for whole-time members is 62 years, while for the Chairman it is 65 years.
Sitharaman, in this year's Budget speech, proposed to raise FDI limit to 100 per cent from the existing 74 per cent in the insurance sector as part of new-generation financial sector reforms. So far, the insurance sector has attracted Rs 82,000 crore through FDI.
The amendments to the LIC Act propose empowering its board to take operational decisions, such as branch expansion and recruitment.
The proposed amendment primarily focuses on promoting policyholders' interests, enhancing their financial security, and facilitating the entry of additional players into the insurance market, thereby driving economic growth and employment generation.

Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan introduced the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill, 2025, replacing MGNREGA and aiming to provide 125 days of guaranteed rural employment.

Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan moves to introduce VB-G RAM G Bill on rural employment in Lok Sabha

Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan introduced the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill, 2025, replacing MGNREGA and aiming to provide 125 days of guaranteed rural employment.

The Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Bill, 2025, that seeks to replace the existing rural employment law MGNREGA, was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday amid strong objections by the opposition to the "removal" of Mahatma Gandhi's name from it.
Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, while introducing the bill, said the government not only believes in Mahatma Gandhi but also follows his principles. "The (Narendra) Modi govt has done more for rural development than previous governments," he said.
Opposition members strongly opposed the proposed legislation at the introduction stage and pressed for sending the bill to a parliamentary panel for greater scrutiny. The MPs, including Priyanka Gandhi of the Congress, strongly objected to the "removal" of Mahatma Gandhi's name.
The opposition members also came to the Well of the House, holding up photographs of Mahatma Gandhi, expressing their disapproval of the "removal" of the name of the Father of the Nation.
According to a copy of the Bill, it will provide a statutory guarantee of 125 days of wage employment in a financial year to every rural household whose adult members volunteer to undertake unskilled manual work.
Within six months from the date of commencement of the VB-G RAM G Act, states will have to make a scheme consistent with the provisions of the new law.
In a statement, the Rural Development Ministry said the proposed legislation will establish a modern statutory framework aligned with the goal of 'Viksit Bharat 2047'.
It said the Bill aims to create both employment and durable rural infrastructure through four priority verticals -- water security through water-related works, core rural infrastructure, livelihood-related infrastructure, and special works to mitigate extreme weather events.
All assets created are aggregated into the Viksit Bharat National Rural Infrastructure Stack, ensuring a unified, coordinated national development strategy, the statement said.
The ministry termed it a "major upgrade" over MGNREGA, fixing structural weaknesses while enhancing employment, transparency, planning, and accountability.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has sought an apology from Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi over alleged threats made against Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a party rally in Delhi.

Kiren Rijiju Demands Apology from Congress Over PM Threats

Rijiju Demands Apology from Congress on Modi Threats

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has sought an apology from Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi over alleged threats made against Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a party rally in Delhi.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Monday sought an apology from Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi for their party workers' alleged threat to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's life.
At a hurriedly called press conference here, Rijiju alleged that at Sunday's Congress rally in the national capital, some party workers had threatened to dig the grave of the Prime Minister, which was the "most unfortunate and tragic" thing to happen in Indian democracy.
"Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi should tender an apology for the Congress workers' threat to the life of the Prime Minister. They should tender the apology on the floor of both Houses of Parliament. It is most unfortunate and tragic that Congress workers openly declared to dig the grave of Prime Minister Modi," he said.
The parliamentary affairs minister said the workers and leaders of the Congress and the BJP are political rivals, not enemies. "We propagate different ideologies but work together for a developed India as dreamt by Prime Minister Modi," he said.
Rijiju said the political leaders wish each other in public despite political fights, which are separate issues, and leaders criticise each other in different ways.
"We oppose each other differently. We never think of killing each other, nor do we talk about that. What kind of mentality is this? What kind of practice is this where some people are threatening to kill political rivals openly?" he posed.
Rijiju said Modi is the prime minister of 140 crore people, the prime minister of the largest democracy in the world.
"The whole world respects PM Modi, the whole of India respects PM Modi. But if some people in the opposition threaten to kill the prime minister, it is most unfortunate and tragic. It will not end by just condemning the incident."
"In Parliament, the Congress president (Kharge) and the Leader of Opposition (Rahul Gandhi) should tender an apology. They should tender an apology to the country on the floor of Parliament," he said.
Rijiju said if there is any humanity left in the Congress and if they respect the people of the country, they should immediately tender an apology in both houses of Parliament.
"Then only will we accept that they have admitted their mistake. Abusing a prime minister is not acceptable in a decent society. The prime minister has always said that we never consider the opposition as enemies but as political opponents."
"We are all working for the country. But to openly declare taking the life of the honourable prime minister, to dig the grave of Modi ji, is the most unfortunate thing we have seen in the political history of India," he said.
Stepping up the campaign on the issue of alleged election irregularities, top Congress leaders on Sunday attacked the BJP and the election commissioners at a 'Vote Chor Gaddi Chhod' rally in the national capital, alleging that "vote chori" is in the ruling party's DNA and its leaders were "gaddar" who were conspiring to take away voting rights of people and should be removed from power.

The government has circulated a bill among Lok Sabha members to repeal MGNREGA and introduce the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin), offering 125 days of rural employment.

Government Proposes New Bill to Replace MGNREGA with VB-G RAM G

Proposed VB-G RAM G Bill Aims to Replace MGNREGA

The government has circulated a bill among Lok Sabha members to repeal MGNREGA and introduce the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin), offering 125 days of rural employment.

A bill to repeal the MGNREGA and bring a new law for rural employment -- Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Bill, 2025 -- is set to be introduced in the Lok Sabha.
According to a copy of the bill, it seeks to introduce the VB-G RAM G Bill, 2025, in Parliament and repeal the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act of 2005.
The bill aims at establishing a "rural development framework aligned with the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047", by providing a statutory guarantee of 125 days of wage employment in every financial year to every rural household whose adult members volunteer to undertake unskilled manual work.
The bill has been listed in the Lok Sabha in the supplementary list of business issued on Monday.
Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, in the statement of purpose of the Bill, said MGNREGA has provided guaranteed wage-employment to rural households over the past 20 years.
However, "further strengthening has become necessary in view of the significant socio-economic transformation witnessed in the rural landscape driven by widespread coverage of the social security interventions and saturation-oriented implementation of major government schemes", he said.
While the MGNREGA focused on the goal to "enhance the livelihood security", the new bill says it aims to promote "empowerment, growth, convergence and saturation for a prosperous and resilient rural Bharat", and lays emphasis on "empowerment, growth, convergence and saturation through public works aggregating into forming Viksit Bharat National Rural Infrastructure Stack".
Water security through water-related works, core rural infrastructure, livelihood-related infrastructure, and special works to mitigate extreme weather events will be the "thematic focus". It will also facilitate adequate farm-labour availability during peak agricultural seasons.
According to the bill, it is crucial to facilitate the availability of farm labour, especially during the peak agricultural season. It has a provision to empower states to notify in advance, for a certain duration, covering peak sowing and harvesting seasons, during which execution of works under this bill will not be undertaken.
With a focus on institutionalised convergence, the bill seeks to integrate 'Viksit Gram Panchayat Plans' with the PM Gati Shakti to address the "varying needs" of village panchayats.
A comprehensive digital ecosystem, including biometric authentication at various levels, global positioning system or mobile-based worksite monitoring, real-time management information system dashboards, proactive public disclosures, and use of artificial intelligence for planning, audits and fraud risk mitigation, will be used to modernise governance, accountability and citizen engagement, the bill stated.
It will be a centrally sponsored scheme, and every state government will have to prepare a scheme for giving effect to the guarantee proposed under this bill, within a period of six months from the date of the commencement of the Act.
The centre would make an allocation for each state, to be estimated based on certain parameters. Further, expenditure in excess of the approved normative allocation shall be the responsibility of the state governments.
The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme, better known as MGNREGA, aims at enhancing the livelihood security of households in rural areas by providing at least 100 days of guaranteed wage employment in a financial year to every household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work. It was enacted in 2005.
The Winter Session of Parliament, which started on December 1, will conclude on December 19.

Rahul Gandhi raised concerns over rising air pollution in major Indian cities, calling for a solution-focused discussion in the Lok Sabha. The government expressed readiness for a debate.

Rahul Gandhi Calls for Unified Approach to Combat Air Pollution

Gandhi Urges Joint Efforts Against Air Pollution

Rahul Gandhi raised concerns over rising air pollution in major Indian cities, calling for a solution-focused discussion in the Lok Sabha. The government expressed readiness for a debate.

Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Friday raised the issue of air pollution in major cities of the country and sought a discussion on it in the Lok Sabha.&nbsp;
Raising the issue during Zero Hour, Gandhi said the discussion on the issue can be framed in an interesting manner where the opposition and the government do not trade abuses at each other, but find a solution to the problem.
"This is not an ideological issue. Everybody in this House would agree that air pollution, the damage it is doing to our people, is something that we would like to cooperate on," Gandhi said.&nbsp;
The Congress leader said the prime minister can then put in place a plan to deal with the issue of air pollution.&nbsp;
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said the government was ready for a discussion on the issue and the Business Advisory Committee of the Lok Sabha can allot time for the same.&nbsp;
"Most of our major cities are living under a blanket of poisonous air. Millions of children are getting lung disease. Their future is being destroyed. People are getting cancer. Older people are struggling to breathe," Gandhi said.&nbsp;

During Question Hour, BJP MP Anurag Thakur alleged that a TMC member has been smoking e-cigarettes in the Lok Sabha for several days, prompting Speaker Om Birla to assure action if a formal complaint is filed.

Anurag Thakur accuses TMC MP of using e-cigarette in Lok Sabha

During Question Hour, BJP MP Anurag Thakur alleged that a TMC member has been smoking e-cigarettes in the Lok Sabha for several days, prompting Speaker Om Birla to assure action if a formal complaint is filed.

BJP member Anurag Thakur on Thursday accused an unnamed TMC MP of smoking an e-cigarette in the Lok Sabha, with Speaker Om Birla assuring action.&nbsp;
During Question Hour, while asking a supplementary, Thakur wondered whether e-cigarettes are allowed in the House.&nbsp;
When Birla replied in the negative, the BJP MP said a TMC member has been "constantly smoking e-cigarettes in the House for the past several days".&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
VIDEO | Speaking in Lok Sabha, BJP MP Anurag Thakur (<a href="https://twitter.com/ianuragthakur?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ianuragthakur</a>) says, &ldquo;I just want to request something so that the House knows. E-Cigarettes are banned in the country. Have you (Speaker) allowed it in the House? TMC MPs are using e-cigarettes in the House.&rdquo; Speaker Om&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/cVI4coJtUB">pic.twitter.com/cVI4coJtUB</a>
&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1999009853789057259?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Several BJP members then demanded action against the opposition MP.&nbsp;
Amid uproar, Birla urged member to maintain dignity of the House. He said if a written complaint is lodged, he will take action.&nbsp;
E-cigarettes were banned in the country a few years ago.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi claimed he challenged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to discuss his press conferences on “vote chori” in Parliament, but received no response, calling Shah’s replies panicked and defensive.

Rahul Gandhi Challenges Amit Shah on 'Vote Chori' in Parliament

Rahul Gandhi Accuses Amit Shah of 'Vote Chori'

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi claimed he challenged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to discuss his press conferences on &ldquo;vote chori&rdquo; in Parliament, but received no response, calling Shah&rsquo;s replies panicked and defensive.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday said he directly challenged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to discuss his press conferences on "vote chori" in Parliament but did not get any answer.
A day after the Lok Sabha witnessed a heated exchange between him and Shah during a debate on election reforms, Gandhi claimed that Shah appeared to be "under pressure".
"He (Shah) used the wrong language, his hands were shaking, you would have seen all this. He is under pressure mentally that was witnessed in Parliament, the whole country saw it," the leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha told reporters in the Parliament House complex.
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | On Union Home Minister Amit Shah's speech in the Parliament yesterday, Congress MP and Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi says, "Amit Shah ji was very nervous yesterday. He used the wrong language, his hands were trembling... He is under tremendous mental pressure.&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/O7rXBMAzBu">pic.twitter.com/O7rXBMAzBu</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1999002279895310675?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"The things I have said, he did not address, did not give any proof. We have said it publicly in press conferences. I directly challenged him to let us discuss my press conferences in Parliament. Did not get an answer. You know the reality," Gandhi said.
Gandhi on Wednesday called the home minister's response during the debate "completely defensive" and asserted that "vote chori" is the "biggest treason".
He also claimed that the home minister did not respond to any of the points raised by him and remained evasive including on transparent voter lists, EVMs and granting immunity to the chief election commissioner.
The opposition MPs, including Gandhi, staged a walkout in the Lok Sabha during the debate on electoral reforms.
Later in a post on X, Gandhi said the home minister's response in Parliament on "vote theft" was "panicked" and "defensive".&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was honoured at an NDA parliamentary meeting following the coalition’s massive win in Bihar, where the alliance secured 202 of 243 assembly seats.

PM Modi Celebrated for NDA's Bihar Election Victory

PM Modi Honored for Bihar Election Win

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was honoured at an NDA parliamentary meeting following the coalition&rsquo;s massive win in Bihar, where the alliance secured 202 of 243 assembly seats.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was felicitated at a meeting of all MPs of the ruling NDA on Tuesday for the coalition's massive victory in the recent Bihar elections.
Union ministers Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah and J P Nadda, who is also the BJP president, were among those present at the NDA Parliamentary Party meeting held at the Parliament House complex.
Modi was garlanded by JD(U) leader Sanjay Jha and Rashtriya Lok Morcha chief Upendra Kushwaha -- both Rajya Sabha members.
On Monday, a delegation of NDA leaders from Bihar called on Modi and congratulated him for the alliance's landslide victory in the state polls.
During the meeting on Monday, the PM told the NDA MPs to work with more vigour for the welfare of the people after the ruling alliance's resounding victory in the Bihar assembly polls, saying with great victory comes great responsibility.
In the 243-member Bihar Assembly, which went to polls last month, the NDA secured 202 seats, paving the way for JD(U) supremo Nitish Kumar to return as chief minister for the 10th time.
Among the alliance partners, BJP won 89 seats, JD(U) 85, LJP (Ram Vilas) 19, Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) five, and Rashtriya Lok Morcha four.&nbsp;

Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi will lead the Lok Sabha debate on election reforms, with both the BJP and Congress fielding senior leaders for the two-day discussion.

Rahul Gandhi to initiate debate on election reforms in Lok Sabha

Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi will lead the Lok Sabha debate on election reforms, with both the BJP and Congress fielding senior leaders for the two-day discussion.

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi will initiate the debate on election reforms in the Lower House on Tuesday.&nbsp;
The opposition has been demanding a discussion on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Parliament since the monsoon session, but the government suggested having a debate on election reforms, citing that the Election Commission was an independent, autonomous and constitutional body.&nbsp;
The BJP is expected to field senior leaders Nishikant Dubey, P P Chaudhary, Abhijit Gangopadhyay and Sanjay Jaiswal in the debate which will take place over two days.&nbsp;
Besides Gandhi, the Congress is expected to field K C Venugopal, Manish Tewari, Varsha Gaikwad, Mohammed Jawed, Ujjwal Raman Singh, Isa Khan, Ravi Mallu, Imran Masood, Gowaal Padavi and Jothimani in the debate.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi initiated a Lok Sabha discussion on 150 years of Vande Mataram, reflecting on its role during India’s freedom struggle and recalling the Emergency during the song’s 100th anniversary as a dark chapter in history.

PM Narendra Modi speaks on Vande Mataram in Parliament Lok Sabha

Prime Minister Narendra Modi initiated a Lok Sabha discussion on 150 years of Vande Mataram, reflecting on its role during India&rsquo;s freedom struggle and recalling the Emergency during the song&rsquo;s 100th anniversary as a dark chapter in history.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday accused the Congress of breaking into pieces national song Vande Mataram under the guise of social harmony, and said it was still following the politics of appeasement.
He also targeted former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru for agreeing with the suggestion that Vande Mataram could antagonise Muslims.
Speaking in the Lok Sabha during a discussion on Vande Mataram, Modi cited a letter written by Nehru to Subhash Chandra Bose claiming that the background of Vande Mataram could antagonise Muslims. He said the letter was written following a protest by Mohammad Ali Jinnah in Lucknow.
Quoting the letter, Modi said, Nehru had written that he had read the background of the song and it could spark anger amongst Muslims.
Modi said later Congress convened a session in "Bankim Chandra Chatterjee's Bengal" to review the use of Vande Mataram. "But, on October 26, Congress compromised on Vande Mataram. They broke it into pieces under the mask of social harmony, but history is witness ..This was Congress' attempt at politics of appeasement. Under pressure of politics of appeasement, Congress agreed to divide Vande Mataram.. this is the reason Congress also bowed to the demand for partition..," Modi alleged.
The prime minister said history is a testament to the fact that Congress knelt before the Muslim League and did this under pressure. "This is an instance of the politics of appeasement of the Congress. Because it bowed to the division of Vande Mataram, it bowed to the division of India later on. Congress has maintained the same politics of appeasement even today," he asserted amid thumping of desks by treasury benches.
The prime minister recalled that Mahatma Gandhi wrote in 1905 that Vande Mataram has become so popular that it has emerged as national anthem and wondered that why was injustice meted out to it. "If Vande Mataram was so popular, why was injustice meted out to it, why was it betrayed in the last century.What were those forces that were so powerful to overrule the wishes of Mahatma Gandhi on Vande Mataram," he said.
Modi lamented that the Constitution was "throttled" and the nation chained by the Emergency when national song Vande Mataram completed 100 years.
The prime minister also noted that Vande Mataram stood like a rock and inspired unity despite British oppression. "When Vande Mataram completed 100 years, the nation was chained by the Emergency. At that time, the Constitution was throttled and those who lived and died for patriotism were pushed behind bars," he said. "The Emergency was a dark chapter in our history. Now we have the opportunity to restore the greatness of Vande Mataram. And I believe this opportunity should not be allowed to pass," Modi said.
Modi noted that the mantra of Vande Mataram gave power and inspiration to the entire country during freedom struggle. "The mantra energised and inspired India&rsquo;s freedom movement and showed the path of courage and determination. Remembering that sacred Vande Mataram today is a great privilege for all of us in this House.
"It is a matter of pride for us that we are witnessing the historic occasion of Vande Mataram completing 150 years," he said.
The prime minister recalled that the British were forced to ban Vande Mataram even though they brought in laws to prevent printing and propagation of the poem. "Vande Mataram was written at a time when, after the uprising of 1857, the British government was alarmed and unleashing various forms of oppression. A campaign was underway to push the British national anthem 'God Save the Queen' into every household.
"Through Vande Mataram, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay responded to this challenge with great strength and resolve. British divided Bengal in 1905, but Vande Mataram stood like a rock and inspired unity," he said.

Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury’s “Bow Bow” reaction to reports of a privilege motion over her bringing a dog to Parliament triggered a political row, sharp exchanges between parties and a wave of social media memes.

Dog row: Renuka says 'Bow Bow' on reports of privilege motion against her

Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury&rsquo;s &ldquo;Bow Bow&rdquo; reaction to reports of a privilege motion over her bringing a dog to Parliament triggered a political row, sharp exchanges between parties and a wave of social media memes.

"Bow Bow"! That was Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury's quick response on Wednesday to reports that some ruling party members are seeking to bring a privilege motion against her for bringing a dog to Parliament.
The snappy reply quickly became fodder for social media memes and even a remix of the popular song "Who Let The Dogs Out" by the Bahamian band Baha Men with the MP's "Bow Bow" interspersed in rhythm.
"Bow bow...what else should I say," Chowdhury told PTI Videos outside Parliament when asked to comment on reports of the privilege motion.
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
&ldquo;If my silence is the reason you believe I cannot suffer, then remember this: your cruelty speaks louder than my voice ever could.&rdquo;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaveAnimals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaveAnimals</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AnimalRights?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AnimalRights</a> 🐾🐶💕 <a href="https://t.co/qHfnTmtQiM">pic.twitter.com/qHfnTmtQiM</a>
&mdash; Renuka Chowdhury (@RenukaCCongress) <a href="https://twitter.com/RenukaCCongress/status/1996105101979914352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"We will see when it comes...what is the problem. When it comes, I will give a befitting reply," she added when questioned further on what she would do.
The often outspoken Rajya Sabha MP has been at a centre of a growing controversy for bringing a dog in her car in Parliament premises on Monday, the first day of the Winter session.
She said the canine was a stray who she had rescued and was taking it to a vet.
"Those sitting inside bite, dogs don't," Chowdhury told reporters when asked why she had done so.
As debate escalated, her party colleague Rahul Gandhi joined in on Tuesday, saying that pets are not allowed outside but are "allowed inside". He said so while pointing to the Parliament House.
The action triggered a row with some BJP members accusing her of indulging in drama and sought action against her.
Chowdhury, a known dog lover, had also claimed that the government does not like animals and questioned the objections raised by the ruling party MPs.
"Which law says that I can't rescue a dog," she asked.
There has been a chorus of protest on the issue from ruling MPs.
BJP MP and national spokesperson Sambit Patra said, "The way the decorum and dignity of Parliament was hurt by the statement made by Rahul Gandhi and Renuka Chowdhury. Both the 'Rs' need to remember that there is an R -- that is 'responsibility of an MP'."
With their remarks, both Gandhi and Chowdhury have insulted all MPs, including those of the Congress, as well as the security personnel, officials and other staff working in Parliament, he alleged.
BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari said in an X post, "Rahul Gandhi is comparing his own Congressmen, and Opposition leaders to Dog! This is how Parivarvadi treat temple of democracy."
"You keep bringing 'kutta' (dog) here and we will continue to get 'satta' (power)," added Union minister Ramdas Athawale said.
BJP MP Jagdambika Pal accused Chowdhury of indulging in a "tamasha" (theatrics) and violating protocol by bringing a dog to Parliament.

Several opposition MPs, including Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Mallikarjun Kharge, protested against the new labour codes in Parliament, raising slogans and banners demanding their rollback.

Opposition MPs protest new labour codes, demand immediate scrapping

Several opposition MPs, including Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Mallikarjun Kharge, protested against the new labour codes in Parliament, raising slogans and banners demanding their rollback.

Several Opposition MPs, including Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and former party chiefs Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, protested in Parliament House complex on Wednesday against the new labour codes and demanded their scrapping. MPs of the Congress, DMK, TMC, Left parties, among others, participated in the protest in front of the Makar Dwar of Parliament.
Slamming the Centre, Kharge accused the Modi government of being "anti-labour, anti-worker and pro-cronies".
In a post on X after the protest by the opposition, Kharge said the Opposition parties protested against the Modi government in Parliament premises, expressing strong objection about the newly implemented labour codes.
"Some of the serious concerns in the New Codes are -- threat to job security. Layoff threshold raised from 100 to 300 workers i.e. more than 80% of factories in India can now lay off or retrench workers without government approval, reducing job security. Expansion of Fixed Term Employment (FTE) will end many permanent jobs. Companies can now hire workers on short-term contracts, avoiding long-term benefits," the Congress chief said.
&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;Modi Govt is anti-labour, anti-worker and pro-cronies! &lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;The Opposition parties protested against the Modi Govt in Parliament today, expressing our strong objection about the newly implemented Labour Codes. Some of the serious concerns in the New Codes are - &lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;Threat to Job&hellip; &lt;a href="https://t.co/5dpIbuSdFF"&gt;pic.twitter.com/5dpIbuSdFF&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/kharge/status/1996100304421748836?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;December 3, 2025&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;
He further said that although the code keeps an 8-hour day on paper, states can allow 12-hour shifts through flexible scheduling. "Coupled with state-determined overtime limits, this effectively permits much longer workdays, increasing fatigue and safety risks even when labelled 'consensual'," he said.
"Workers must wait 60 days before striking, plus a 14-day cooling-off period. This prevents quick action against unsafe or unfair conditions. Requiring one union with 51% membership to be the sole negotiator sidelines smaller unions and reduces representation for diverse worker groups," Kharge said.
He pointed out that standing orders will not apply to units with fewer than 300 workers. "Basic rules on working hours, leave, and termination will not be mandatory. This may increase arbitrary 'hire and fire' practices in medium-sized units," the Congress chief said.
Alleging that the codes weakened safety and welfare of workers, Kharge said that by raising the definition of a factory to 20 workers (with power) and 40 workers (without power) where violations and unsafe conditions are most common, they fall outside the law&rsquo;s safety net.
"The Code fails to extend safeguards for migrants, removing the displacement allowance and retaining a restrictive Rs 18,000 income cap that leaves many migrants without protection. Mandatory Aadhaar-based registration risks leaving out migrants and informal workers who often face documentation errors or limited digital access, creating barriers to social-security enrolment," Kharge said.
By allowing offences to be settled for a fee, the Code turns wage violations into a payable cost, weakening accountability and effectively monetising illegality, he said.
Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who also participated in the protest, said that in the name of simplifying labour laws, the central government has brought in four new labour codes but under this pretext, the government has snatched away all the rights that workers had in their hands.
"The protection previously granted to workers have been taken away, and new avenues for their exploitation have been opened. Through these laws, Narendra Modi ji's pro-capitalist and anti-worker mindset has once again come to the fore. The country does not accept these laws," she said in her post on X in Hindi after the protest.
&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="hi" dir="ltr"&gt;श्रम कानूनों को सरल बनाने के नाम पर केंद्र सरकार 4 नये लेबर कोड लेकर आई है। इस बहाने श्रमिकों के हाथ में जितने अधिकार थे, सरकार ने उन्हें छीन लिया। श्रमिकों को पहले से मिली हुई सुरक्षा छीन ली और उनके शोषण के नये रास्ते खोल दिए। इन कानूनों के माध्यम से नरेंद्र मोदी जी की&hellip; &lt;a href="https://t.co/5LjB4g5wXA"&gt;pic.twitter.com/5LjB4g5wXA&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/priyankagandhi/status/1996116965128372256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;December 3, 2025&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;
She slammed the codes as "exploitative laws". Carrying posters and placards against the new labour codes, the opposition MPs raised slogans demanding their rollback.
Besides Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, TMC's Dola Sen, DMK's K Kanhimozhi and A Raja, CPI(M)'s John Brittas, CPI(ML) Liberation's Sudama Prasad, among others, participated in the protest.
The MPs also held a large banner which read - 'No to Corporate Jungle Raj, Yes to Labour Justice'.
The Centre had last month notified the four labour codes, pending since 2020. The Congress had alleged that the 29 existing labour-related laws have been re-packaged into the four codes.
The four labour codes are the Code of Wages (2019, Industrial Relations Code (2020), Code on Social Security (2020) and Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code (2020).
Key reforms include mandatory appointment letters to workers to ensure formalisation and job security; universal social security coverage, including to gig, platform, contract, and migrant workers, with PF, ESIC, and insurance benefits; statutory minimum wages and timely payment across all sectors; expanded rights and safety for women, including night-shift work and mandatory grievance committees; and free annual health check-ups for workers aged 40 and above.
The codes, however, had earlier come under criticism from trade unions over unclear provisions on retrenchment and possible discretionary behaviour during the implementation by the central or state governments.
The rules raised the ceiling for mandatory government approval for carrying out closures, layoffs or retrenchment. Against the existing provision of establishments employing 100 or more workers needing government nod, the new code raises the cap to 300 workers.
It also increases working hours in factories from 9 to 12 hours and in shops and establishments from 9 to 10 hours.

Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia assures that the Sanchar Saathi app is secure and cannot snoop, amid concerns over mandatory pre-installation on smartphones.

Snooping will never happen with Sanchar Saathi app: Scindia in Lok Sabha

Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia assures that the Sanchar Saathi app is secure and cannot snoop, amid concerns over mandatory pre-installation on smartphones.

Amid privacy concerns over the Sanchar Saathi app, Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Wednesday asserted that snooping is neither possible nor will it happen with the app.&nbsp;
Depending on the feedback, the ministry is ready to make changes to the order regarding the installation of the app in devices, he told Lok Sabha.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
VIDEO | Parliament Winter Session: Speaking in Lok Sabha, Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia (<a href="https://twitter.com/JM_Scindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JM_Scindia</a>) said snooping is neither possible nor will it happen with the Sanchar Saathi safety app, amid a row over his ministry's order asking smartphone makers to&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/s30bHCAazi">pic.twitter.com/s30bHCAazi</a>
&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1996113633030689241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Sanchar Saathi app se "na snooping sambhav hai, no snooping hoga," he said in response to Congress leader Deepender Singh Hooda's supplementary question regarding snooping concerns related to the app.&nbsp;
The ministry's order, dated November 28, mandating all mobile phone manufacturers to pre-install Sanchar Saathi app in all handsets to be sold in India as well as in existing devices through software update has triggered a row.&nbsp;
Concerns have been raised about possible snooping and that the app could be used to read messages that users exchange.&nbsp;
Asserting that the app is for the protection of people, he said the government wants to give choices to consumers. If a consumer has not been registered on the app, then the app will not be operational and one can also delete the app, he stated.&nbsp;
There have been around 1.5 crore app downloads. With the portal and the app, 26 lakh stolen handsets have been traced, 7 lakh stolen handsets have been returned to the consumers, 41 lakh mobile connections have been disconnected and 6 lakh frauds have been blocked, the minister said.&nbsp;
The ministry's order also mandates mobile phone companies to ensure that the pre-installed Sanchar Saathi application is readily visible and accessible to the end users at the time of first use or device setup and that its functionalities are not disabled or restricted.&nbsp;

Lok Sabha conducted Question Hour without disruptions for the first time in the ongoing Winter session, with upcoming discussions on 'Vande Mataram' anniversary and election reforms.

Lok Sabha Question Hour Proceeded Smoothly Post SIR Discussion Resolution

Lok Sabha Resumes Smooth Question Hour

Lok Sabha conducted Question Hour without disruptions for the first time in the ongoing Winter session, with upcoming discussions on 'Vande Mataram' anniversary and election reforms.

Lok Sabha on Wednesday took up the Question Hour without disruptions for the first time in the ongoing Winter session, a day after the logjam over the opposition's demand for a discussion on SIR was resolved.&nbsp;
During a meeting chaired by Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday evening, it was decided to hold a discussion in Lok Sabha on the 150th anniversary of national song 'Vande Mataram' on next Monday and on election reforms on next Tuesday.&nbsp;
As soon as the House assembled for the day, obituaries were paid to former members who had passed away recently.&nbsp;
The House then took up the Question Hour.&nbsp;
Since the session began on Monday, proceedings were disrupted by opposition members demanding a debate on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise ongoing in nine states and three Union territories.&nbsp;

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said the government is ready to discuss Special Intensive Revision (SIR) and electoral reforms in Rajya Sabha but asked Opposition not to insist on a timeline amid heated protests.

Govt says ready for discussion on SIR but remains non-committal on time

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said the government is ready to discuss Special Intensive Revision (SIR) and electoral reforms in Rajya Sabha but asked Opposition not to insist on a timeline amid heated protests.

Amid demands by the Opposition for an immediate discussion on the special intensive revision of electoral rolls, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Tuesday said the government is ready to discuss anything but the Opposition should not fix timelines.
After Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge demanded that a discussion on the crucial issue of SIR should begin in the House immediately, Rijiju said he will hold consultations with leaders of various parties on Tuesday and chalk out a solution.
Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha J P Nadda said the Parliamentary Affairs Minister has already said that "we will come back." "I am told that very soon a meeting is going to take place with Opposition leaders and very soon we will decide," Nadda said.
Responding to Kharge's demand for an immediate discussion on SIR, Rijiju said "please don't put timeline condition on anything." "I am going to engage with leaders of various political parties, it may be formally or informally. Ultimately, it will come to you when we start the consultations. The problem begins when you start questioning the time. Everything cannot be mechanical. In Parliamentary democracy, we have to engage in dialogue, we have to engage in discussion," Rijiju said.
He said there are many issues in the country, but they should not undermine one issue and take up another issue as all the issues are important. "You are unable to win elections and people do not believe in you and you vent out your anger in Parliament. This is not right. In a democracy, there is a platform of elections with the people. We said yesterday too that we are ready to discuss and you should at least hold consultations. But, they try to fix the time, saying government should tell now. This is not right," Rijiju said while taking a swipe at the Opposition.
Earlier, Kharge said notices were given by them on Tuesday under Rule 267, which the chairman has rejected without listing the subject and the reasons, which has not been the tradition. He said suddenly it has happened that for the members who give notices, neither their name nor the subject of the notice is read out.
"Our appeal is that there should be an immediate discussion on SIR. This is a very serious issue, because the lives of BLOs are at stake in the country. Discussion on SIR is in the interest of the country, citizens, and democracy. We are all ready to discuss this issue with the government," he said.
The Opposition leader said these are urgent matters as more than 28 people have died due to the SIR work pressure. "I want the discussion to take place now, only in the interest of democracy, citizens and our country. I request that you allow the discussion. We will cooperate with you if you allow," he asserted.

Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge’s reference to former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s sudden exit triggered protests in the Rajya Sabha during the welcome of new Chairman CP Radhakrishnan.

Kharge mentions Dhankhar's 'sudden' exit in Rajya Sabha, Treasury benches object

Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge&rsquo;s reference to former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar&rsquo;s sudden exit triggered protests in the Rajya Sabha during the welcome of new Chairman CP Radhakrishnan.

Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday mentioned the "unexpected and sudden exit" of former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar as the Upper House welcomed his successor CP Radhakrishnan, triggering a brief uproar from the Treasury benches, saying it was not suited to the occasion.
Welcoming the Chairman on his first day in the Rajya Sabha on behalf of the Opposition parties, Kharge also referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement at the beginning of the Winter Session, and said they would respond later.
The Congress, he said, "staunchly stands by Constitutional values and time-honoured Parliamentary traditions". "Be assured of our cooperation in the conduct of proceedings".
He, however, added, "Fair and impartial conduct of proceedings, providing just opportunity to members of each party, is essential for credibility of this office".
He referred to Dhankhar, who had resigned from the post of Vice-President on July 21 over health issues.
"I am constrained to refer to your predecessor's unexpected and sudden exit from the office of Chairman, which is unprecedented in the annals of Parliamentary history... The Chairman Rajya Sabha, as the custodian of the House, belongs as much to the opposition as to the government," Kharge said, triggering uproar from ruling party benches.
"I was disheartened that this House did not get an opportunity to give him a farewell," he said.
Kharge also mentioned that Radhakrishnan is related to former three-term Lok Sabha MP CK Kuppuswamy, who was a member of the Congress.
"It is better if you keep a balance between both sides. I wish you a successful term... The background you come from was mentioned by the PM, but you should also not forget you are from a Congress family," he said.
"Secondly, PM gave a statement outside (Parliament). He attacked us indirectly as well, we will reply to it here..." he added.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, meanwhile, slammed the Leader of Opposition for mentioning Dhankhar's resignation on the "solemn occasion".
"This is a very solemn occasion... The Prime Minister has made very dignified remarks as part of the felicitation event. .. Why did the honourable Leader of Opposition refer to a case which was not necessary to be raised at this moment..." Rijiju said.
"The language you used for the former chairman, the way you insulted him, the motion you served, we still have that copy..." he said.
He was referring to a motion for the removal of the Vice-President submitted by Opposition parties when Dhankhar was in office.
Leader of the House JP Nadda also intervened, urging members to maintain the dignity of the occasion.
He also referred to the loss faced by the opposition alliance, including Congress, in the recent Bihar assembly polls.
"This program is a pious occasion. We should maintain the dignity of the occasion. The issue that the Leader of Opposition raised, if we start discussing this, it is irrelevant... We will also have to mention that you brought a no-confidence motion against him twice. It is an obstacle in a good and congenial environment debate which is going on," Nadda said.
"Talking about what the Prime Minister spoke outside... The loss of Bihar and Haryana must have given you a lot of pain... Speak about it when the time comes," he said.
Addressing the media on the first day of the Winter Session of Parliament, Prime Minister Modi said the opposition was perturbed by the electoral losses in Bihar and was unable to digest its failure.
"Defeat should not be the ground to create disruption. Victory should not convert into arrogance either," the prime minister said.
Parliament is not a place for drama, it is a place for delivery, he said, adding it should not be used by Opposition to vent out frustration after defeat in elections.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced two bills in Lok Sabha to replace the GST compensation cess on tobacco products and levy a new Health Security se National Security Cess on pan masala.

India Revises Tax Framework for Tobacco & Pan Masala Goods

India: Revised Taxes on Sin Goods

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced two bills in Lok Sabha to replace the GST compensation cess on tobacco products and levy a new Health Security se National Security Cess on pan masala.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday introduced two bills in the Lok Sabha aimed at taxing tobacco and pan masala products, ensuring continuity of revenue after the GST compensation cess ends.
The Central Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2025 proposes to replace the GST compensation cess currently levied on tobacco products such as cigarettes, chewing tobacco, cigars, hookahs, zarda, and scented tobacco.
According to the statement of objects and reasons of the bill, it seeks "to give the government the fiscal space to increase the rate of central excise duty on tobacco and tobacco products so as to protect tax incidence," once the GST compensation cess is discontinued.
The Health Security se National Security Cess Bill, 2025 proposes a new cess on the manufacturing of specified goods like pan masala, with the government empowered to notify additional goods for the levy.
The statement of objects and reasons explains that the cess is intended to serve &ldquo;the twin purposes of enabling targeted utilisation for public health, as well as national security.&rdquo;
Currently, sin goods like tobacco and pan masala attract 28 per cent GST plus a compensation cess levied at varied rates. Under the Central Excise (Amendment) Bill:
- Excise duty on cigars, cheroots, and cigarettes would range from Rs 5,000&ndash;11,000 per 1,000 sticks.
- Unmanufactured tobacco would attract 60&ndash;70 per cent duty, while nicotine and inhalation products would face 100 per cent duty.
At present, cigarettes are taxed with a compensation cess of 5 per cent ad valorem plus Rs 2,076&ndash;3,668 per 1,000 sticks, depending on the length. After the compensation cess ends, tobacco products will carry 40 per cent GST plus excise duty, and pan masala will have 40 per cent GST plus the Health Security se National Security Cess.
Opposition Concerns: TMC member Saugata Ray opposed the bills, stating that while tobacco is harmful, the Central Excise (Amendment) Bill does not mention this. He also opposed the Health Security se National Security Cess Bill, noting that cess proceeds are not shared with states.
Background: When GST was introduced on July 1, 2017, a compensation cess mechanism was established for five years, till June 30, 2022, to offset revenue losses for states. The levy was later extended by four years until March 31, 2026, with collections used to repay loans taken by the Centre to compensate states for GST losses during the COVID period. Since the loan repayment is expected to conclude in December 2025, the compensation cess will cease.
On September 3, 2025, the GST Council decided to continue the compensation cess on tobacco and pan masala until the loans are fully repaid. The cess on other luxury items ended on September 22, 2025, as part of GST rate rationalisation, implementing two slabs of 5 and 18 per cent and a 40 per cent rate for ultra-luxury goods, aerated drinks, and other demerit goods.
The introduction of the Central Excise Amendment Bill, 2025, and the Health Security se National Security Cess Bill, 2025 ensures that the tax incidence on sin goods such as tobacco and pan masala remains consistent after the discontinuation of the GST compensation cess.

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