During a debate in the Rajya Sabha, Union Home Minister Amit Shah responded to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's accusations that the BJP wants to change the Constitution by highlighting Congress' own history of amending the Constitution for political gain. He also criticized Rahul Gandhi for claiming to represent youth while being in his 50s. Shah's statements come after the introduction of a bill to hold simultaneous Lok Sabha and assembly elections, which faced opposition from Congress and other opposition leaders.
Amit Shah's Response to Rahul Gandhi's Accusations in Rajya Sabha: A Heated Debate
In a recent debate in the Rajya Sabha, Union Home Minister Amit Shah engaged in a heated exchange with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over the BJP's alleged intentions to amend the Constitution.
Background
The debate arose from a bill introduced by the government to hold simultaneous Lok Sabha and assembly elections. This proposal was met with opposition from the Congress and other opposition parties.
Rahul Gandhi's Accusations
Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP of wanting to change the Constitution for political gain. He alleged that the ruling party was planning to "rewrite" the Constitution to suit its own agenda.
Amit Shah's Response
Home Minister Amit Shah responded to Gandhi's accusations by highlighting Congress' own history of amending the Constitution. He pointed out that the Congress had amended the Constitution 104 times, many of them for political reasons.
Shah further criticized Gandhi for claiming to represent youth while being in his 50s. He questioned Gandhi's credibility on matters related to constitutional amendments and political processes.
Opposition's Concerns
Opposition leaders, including Gandhi, raised concerns that holding simultaneous elections would give the ruling party an unfair advantage. They argued that the government could use its control over resources and media to influence the outcome of elections.
Government's Stance
The government maintained that simultaneous elections would reduce election-related expenses and promote development. However, they were open to considering amendments to the bill to address concerns raised by the opposition.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
They clashed over allegations that the BJP wants to change the Constitution, with Shah highlighting Congress' own amendments and Gandhi questioning BJP's motives.
Concerns include the potential for the ruling party to influence elections, the reduced frequency of elections, and the financial burden on political parties.
The Indian Constitution has been amended 104 times, including significant amendments by both Congress and BJP-led governments.
The government believes that simultaneous elections would reduce election expenses, promote development, and eliminate the disruption caused by frequent polls.
The bill is currently under consideration by a parliamentary committee. The government is open to considering amendments to the bill to address opposition concerns.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Gulf Spic Labour Camp during his two-day visit to Kuwait and interacted with Indian workers, recognizing their contributions to the country's development. He also shared his vision for a "Viksit Bharat 2047" that is supported by the aspirations of these workers. Modi also emphasized on the hard work of Indian farmers and laborers saying that it motivates him to work even harder. The Prime Minister also mentioned the cost-effective data rates in India that facilitate easy communication for people around the world.
A controversial Indian guru known as Rampal and 14 of his followers have been given a life sentence for the murder of four women and a young child at his ashram in 2014. The victims died from suffocation after being locked in a room during a stand off between the guru's supporters and police. This sentencing comes after years of legal battles and controversies surrounding the guru and his followers.
The 55th GST Council meeting in Jaisalmer resulted in a flood of demands for disaster-specific levy by several states, following a request from Andhra Pradesh for a 1% GST levy to fund their flood recovery efforts. A Group of Ministers has been formed to examine the legal and structural issues surrounding this proposal, which was discussed in detail during the council meeting. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that other states such as Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Telangana have also expressed interest in being a part of the committee. The issue of a similar flood-cess levy by Kerala in 2019 was also brought up, with other states showing support for Andhra Pradesh's demand.
After highly anticipated negotiations, the Mahayuti alliance announced its cabinet portfolios for Maharashtra's ministers on Saturday evening. Highlights include CM Devendra Fadnavis retaining the Home Ministry and Eknath Shinde of the Shiv Sena receiving the Urban Development portfolio. This comes after the alliance dropped several leaders from its cabinet expansion. The winter session of the Maharashtra legislative assembly concluded today with six days of intense discussions and debates. Additional key meetings will take place today regarding the portfolio distribution for the new cabinet, with several key players vying for key positions.
The Foreign Secretary has confirmed that the UK has had "diplomatic contact" with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the group responsible for overthrowing Syrian President Bashar-al Assad. This comes after a period of uncertainty about whether the UK should engage with HTS due to its designation as a terrorist organization. Despite its proscription, the UK maintains diplomatic contact with HTS as a necessary measure.
The National Students’ Union of India Punjab President, Isherpreet Singh Sidhu, strongly condemns the arrest of Aden Karanveer Singh by SHO Narinder for peacefully protesting for Senate Elections at the Panjab University Bachao Morcha. Sidhu highlights how such actions not only violate the democratic right to dissent but also lead to the loss of Punjab's bright minds and the creation of figures like Lawrence Bishnoi. He calls for immediate action against SHO Narinder and urges higher authorities to intervene and ensure justice for the students. Sidhu reaffirms NSUI Punjab's support for the students and their demand to be heard, respected, and empowered.
The Assembly was abuzz with discussions on the tragic Sandhya Theater stampede, with AIMIM floor leader Akbaruddin calling for a thorough investigation into the incident. He also criticized Allu Arjun for not visiting the hospital to meet the victims. CM Revanth Reddy assured that a comprehensive investigation would be conducted and necessary action would be taken in response to the incident.
Isherpreet Singh Sidhu, the National Students' Union of India Punjab President, strongly denounces the arrest of Karanveer Singh for peacefully protesting at the Panjab University Bachao Morcha and the alleged manhandling by SHO Narinder. Sidhu considers this a violation of democratic principles and a tactic used to suppress the voices of Punjab's youth. He demands immediate and strict action against the police officer and urges higher authorities to intervene and ensure justice for the students. The NSUI Punjab stands in solidarity with the students, emphasizing the need to respect their voices and empower them.
In a fiery speech, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy addressed the criticism from opposition leaders regarding the Rythu Bharosa scheme. He assured citizens that the government is committed to fulfilling all promises made and provided updates on the scheme's implementation. Reddy also highlighted the inclusivity of the process and denounced the previous government for misusing funds meant for farmers.
Congress leader Laxmi Hebbalkar, who is known for her feisty demeanor, has been embroiled in a recent controversy where she has accused BJP MLC C T Ravi of using derogatory terms against her. She has taken a stand for women's rights and filed a complaint of sexual harassment against Ravi, leading to his arrest. Hebbalkar, who is considered a close associate of Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, has managed to secure the support of the Congress leadership in her fight against injustices. However, her political career has not been without drama and controversies, including a falling out with the Jarkiholi brothers.