News for 'upper-house'

NDA sweeps RS polls as Nitish, Nitin enter Upper House

NDA sweeps RS polls as Nitish, Nitin enter Upper House

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

The ruling NDA alliance has secured a majority in the Rajya Sabha elections, winning key seats in Bihar, Odisha, and Haryana, while other candidates were elected unopposed across multiple states. The elections were marked by cross-voting allegations and political maneuvering.

NDA lacks numbers to get women's quota bill passed, unless...

NDA lacks numbers to get women's quota bill passed, unless...

Rediff.com6 days ago

The ruling NDA coalition in India faces a significant challenge in passing the women's reservation bill in Parliament due to insufficient numbers. The bill requires a two-thirds majority in both houses, and the NDA needs to secure additional support or abstentions from other parties to achieve this.

Oppn to boycott RS deputy chairman election as mark of protest

Oppn to boycott RS deputy chairman election as mark of protest

Rediff.com6 days ago

The opposition parties in India have announced a boycott of the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman election, citing the Modi government's failure to appoint a deputy speaker in the Lok Sabha for seven years and lack of consultation.

Harivansh elected unopposed as Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman

Harivansh elected unopposed as Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman

Rediff.com5 days ago

Harivansh has been re-elected as the Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha unopposed, marking his third term in the position.

Nitish calls key Cabinet meet on Tuesday; exit likely, new CM on April 15

Nitish calls key Cabinet meet on Tuesday; exit likely, new CM on April 15

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is set to chair a crucial Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, April 14.

Parl to reconvene on Apr 16 to expand LS seats to implement women's quota

Parl to reconvene on Apr 16 to expand LS seats to implement women's quota

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju indicated that the government may bring a bill to increase seats in the Lok Sabha, potentially to implement reservation for women in the legislature. The Opposition has raised concerns about the timing and implications of the proposed bills.

Nitish Kumar resigns as Bihar MLC; all eyes on next CM

Nitish Kumar resigns as Bihar MLC; all eyes on next CM

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

Following his election to the Rajya Sabha, Nitish Kumar is set to resign from the Bihar Legislative Council, adhering to constitutional requirements and prompting speculation about future political strategies in Bihar.

Parliament adjourns sine die, Budget Session ends

Parliament adjourns sine die, Budget Session ends

Rediff.com4 days ago

Both Houses of Parliament were adjourned sine die, concluding a Budget session marked by the passage of key legislations and the defeat of a Constitution amendment bill on women's reservation. The session saw frequent opposition protests and discussions on various issues, including the West Asia conflict.

Raghav Chadha on the way out? AAP replaces him as deputy leader in Rajya Sabha

Raghav Chadha on the way out? AAP replaces him as deputy leader in Rajya Sabha

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has requested the Rajya Sabha secretariat to remove Raghav Chadha as the party's deputy leader in the House, proposing Punjab MP Ashok Mittal as his replacement, amidst Chadha's absence from key party events and prolonged silence on AAP matters.

BJP chief Nitin Nabin to contest RS polls from Bihar

BJP chief Nitin Nabin to contest RS polls from Bihar

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

The BJP has announced its candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections across multiple states, including Bihar, West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, and Haryana.

Sharad Pawar, Athawale among 26 elected unopposed to RS

Sharad Pawar, Athawale among 26 elected unopposed to RS

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

The Rajya Sabha elections saw several candidates elected unopposed, including Sharad Pawar and Ramdas Athawale, while Bihar, Odisha, and Haryana prepare for contested elections.

Transgender Rights Bill Amended by Parliament: Key Changes Explained

Transgender Rights Bill Amended by Parliament: Key Changes Explained

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

The Indian Parliament has passed a bill amending the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act 2019, focusing on biological discrimination and excluding social orientations from its scope. The bill aims to provide legal recognition and protection to transgender individuals facing discrimination due to biological issues, while also introducing graded punishments for harm inflicted on them.

No full stop in politics, says Modi as 59 Rajya Sabha MPs retire

No full stop in politics, says Modi as 59 Rajya Sabha MPs retire

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Rajya Sabha to honour 59 retiring members, emphasising their contributions to national life and urging them to continue their service.

'Mohabbat humse, shaadi...': Kharge's dig at Deve Gowda makes Modi laugh

'Mohabbat humse, shaadi...': Kharge's dig at Deve Gowda makes Modi laugh

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

Mallikarjun Kharge and Narendra Modi addressed the Rajya Sabha, acknowledging the contributions of retiring MPs and emphasising the enduring nature of public service.

West Asia crisis: Modi asks Indians to 'be ready for every eventuality'

West Asia crisis: Modi asks Indians to 'be ready for every eventuality'

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the Rajya Sabha, detailing India's strategies to navigate the global energy crisis sparked by the West Asia conflict, including securing diverse energy sources and expanding strategic oil reserves.

Fissures in MVA: After Sena-UBT, Cong claims RS seat

Fissures in MVA: After Sena-UBT, Cong claims RS seat

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance in Maharashtra is facing internal conflict over the allocation of a winnable Rajya Sabha seat, with the Congress staking its claim against the Shiv Sena (UBT). Discussions are ongoing to reach a consensus before the nomination deadline.

Cong MLAs face action after cross-voting in Rajya Sabha polls

Cong MLAs face action after cross-voting in Rajya Sabha polls

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

Rajya Sabha elections in Bihar, Odisha, and Haryana were marred by allegations of cross-voting and 'horse trading', leading to suspensions and warnings from the Congress party.

Govt unlikely to allow West Asia debate in Parl after Jaishankar's reply

Govt unlikely to allow West Asia debate in Parl after Jaishankar's reply

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

The Indian government is unlikely to allow a parliamentary debate on the West Asia crisis, citing prior briefings by the External Affairs Minister. This decision comes amid opposition protests and a pending no-confidence motion against the Speaker.

BJP Fields Sanjay Bhatia for Haryana Rajya Sabha Seat

BJP Fields Sanjay Bhatia for Haryana Rajya Sabha Seat

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

The BJP has nominated Sanjay Bhatia, its former MP from Karnal, for the upcoming Rajya Sabha poll from Haryana. This decision comes as two Rajya Sabha seats in Haryana are set to fall vacant, prompting elections scheduled for March 16.

It's official: Merger talks between NCP factions over

It's official: Merger talks between NCP factions over

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

Senior NCP (SP) leader Jayant Patil has ruled out the possibility of a merger between the two factions of the Nationalist Congress Party, stating that talks ceased following the death of Ajit Pawar.

Advantage BJP in March 16 Rajya Sabha polls to 37 seats

Advantage BJP in March 16 Rajya Sabha polls to 37 seats

Rediff.com18 Feb 2026

The Election Commission has announced the schedule for the Rajya Sabha elections 2024, setting the stage for polls to fill 37 seats across 10 states on March 16.

West Bengal elections: BJP, Left put out first list; Suvendu to take on Mamata again

West Bengal elections: BJP, Left put out first list; Suvendu to take on Mamata again

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

The BJP has released its first list of candidates for the West Bengal assembly polls, featuring Suvendu Adhikari against Mamata Banerjee in a high-stakes electoral battle. The Left Front has also announced its initial list of candidates, setting the stage for a crucial election.

Sharad Pawar and grandnephew Parth in Rajya Sabha race

Sharad Pawar and grandnephew Parth in Rajya Sabha race

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

Two members of the Pawar family, Sharad Pawar and his grandnephew Parth, are contesting Rajya Sabha seats from Maharashtra, marking a potential first where both serve simultaneously in Parliament.

'Just reading statement without...': Oppn demands debate on Iran war

'Just reading statement without...': Oppn demands debate on Iran war

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

Opposition parties are demanding a full Parliament discussion on the West Asia conflict, criticising the government's silence and calling for a contingency plan to protect India's energy security and citizens.

It's official! Nitish to move to Rajya Sabha, to quit as Bihar CM

It's official! Nitish to move to Rajya Sabha, to quit as Bihar CM

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

Nitish Kumar's decision to contest the Rajya Sabha elections signals the end of his long-standing tenure as Bihar's Chief Minister, paving the way for a potential BJP leader to take the helm.

Nitish allows son to join politics, RS nomination likely

Nitish allows son to join politics, RS nomination likely

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's son, Nishant Kumar, is set to enter politics, with a formal announcement expected from the JD(U). Party leaders express enthusiasm and anticipate a significant role for Nishant within the party.

RS polls: Sharad Pawar to get fresh term; BJP fields 4 nominees in Maha

RS polls: Sharad Pawar to get fresh term; BJP fields 4 nominees in Maha

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

The Congress party has announced its support for Nationalist Congress Party (SP) chief Sharad Pawar as the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) candidate for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections in Maharashtra.

Nitish set to step down as Bihar CM, to contest RS poll

Nitish set to step down as Bihar CM, to contest RS poll

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

Speculation is rife in Bihar about Chief Minister Nitish Kumar potentially moving to the Rajya Sabha, leading to discussions about a possible BJP chief minister and a role for Kumar's son, Nishant. Senior BJP leaders have dismissed the rumours.

NCP-SP skips MVA meet ahead of Maharashtra Budget Session

NCP-SP skips MVA meet ahead of Maharashtra Budget Session

Rediff.com22 Feb 2026

The absence of NCP-SP leaders from a key Maha Vikas Aghadi meeting in Maharashtra has ignited concerns about opposition unity ahead of the crucial budget session and upcoming Rajya Sabha elections.

Mukul Roy, ex-railway minister and TMC leader, passes away

Mukul Roy, ex-railway minister and TMC leader, passes away

Rediff.com23 Feb 2026

Veteran politician and former railway minister Mukul Roy, a key figure in West Bengal politics, has died due to cardiac arrest, marking the end of a significant era.

Ajit Pawar hailed as 'best CM never had' as Maha leaders unite in tribute

Ajit Pawar hailed as 'best CM never had' as Maha leaders unite in tribute

Rediff.com23 Feb 2026

Maharashtra's political leaders, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, paid tribute to the late Deputy CM Ajit Pawar during the state legislature's budget session, remembering him as a capable leader and administrator.

'Abodh Baalak': Kharge-Nadda spat in RS over Rahul

'Abodh Baalak': Kharge-Nadda spat in RS over Rahul

Rediff.com5 Feb 2026

Kharge condemned the use of the "abodh balak" term for Gandhi and alleged that BJP MPs can't even speak their mind.

Union Budget allocates Rs 1,492 cr for Parliament

Union Budget allocates Rs 1,492 cr for Parliament

Rediff.com2 Feb 2026

The Union Budget allocates Rs 1,492 crore for the functioning of both Houses of Parliament, with specific provisions for Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, and related secretariats.

Over 60% Bangladeshis vote 'yes' to change Constitution

Over 60% Bangladeshis vote 'yes' to change Constitution

Rediff.com13 Feb 2026

A referendum on the implementation of a reform package in Bangladesh saw a 60.26 per cent voter turnout, with the 'yes' vote winning a clear majority, the Election Commission announced.

What Nehru told Cong MPs in 1954 Speaker removal debate

What Nehru told Cong MPs in 1954 Speaker removal debate

Rediff.com15 Feb 2026

The first such situation surfaced on December 18, 1954, when the Opposition moved a resolution for the removal of then Speaker Mavalankar.

Rajya Sabha faces backlog of 19 bills, oldest dates back to 1992

Rajya Sabha faces backlog of 19 bills, oldest dates back to 1992

Rediff.com17 Jan 2026

The Rajya Sabha currently has 19 government Bills pending, with the oldest dating back to 1992. These bills cover a range of issues including population control, rent control, seed quality, migrant workers, and tribal autonomy.

BJP blocked PM Manmohan Singh's reply in 2004: Congress

BJP blocked PM Manmohan Singh's reply in 2004: Congress

Rediff.com5 Feb 2026

Amid disruptions in the Lok Sabha, opposition parties are protesting the denial of speaking rights to the Leader of Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, during discussions on the President's address. The Congress party draws parallels to a similar incident in 2004 when then-Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was prevented from speaking.

Maha Cong suffers jolt as MLC Pradnya Satav joins BJP

Maha Cong suffers jolt as MLC Pradnya Satav joins BJP

Rediff.com18 Dec 2025

Congress MLC Pradnya Satav joined the BJP in Maharashtra, prompting accusations of undemocratic practices and political maneuvering ahead of local elections.

Uphold Constitution and adhere to 'Lakshman Rekha': RS Chairman to members

Uphold Constitution and adhere to 'Lakshman Rekha': RS Chairman to members

Rediff.com1 Dec 2025

Rajya Sabha Chairman C P Radhakrishnan addressed members, urging them to uphold the Constitution, follow parliamentary norms, and understand their responsibilities towards the nation.

P T Usha pushes for 'Made in India' doping kits

P T Usha pushes for 'Made in India' doping kits

Rediff.com12 Dec 2025

India is bidding to become an Olympic host in 2036 and the International Olympic Committee has made it clear that the country will have to considerably improve its current doping record.