News for '-parliamentary-democracy'

'Threat to PM': BJP women MPs write to Birla urging action

'Threat to PM': BJP women MPs write to Birla urging action

Rediff.com10 Feb 2026

BJP's women MPs have requested Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to take strict action against opposition MPs for disruptive behavior in Parliament, including protests that prevented Prime Minister Modi from addressing the House.

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.

End Of Bangladesh's Two Women Political Era

End Of Bangladesh's Two Women Political Era

Rediff.com19 Feb 2026

Tarique Rahman is Bangladesh's first male prime minister in more than three decades, ending an era of female leadership that began in 1991.

Opposition plans notice to remove Speaker Birla; numbers short, says Rijiju

Opposition plans notice to remove Speaker Birla; numbers short, says Rijiju

Rediff.com9 Feb 2026

The Congress party has accused the government of stifling opposition voices in the Lok Sabha, alleging that opposition leaders are not being allowed to express their views while the government side faces no such restrictions.

Govt rejects Opposition demands for debates on VB-G RAM G Act, SIR

Govt rejects Opposition demands for debates on VB-G RAM G Act, SIR

Rediff.com27 Jan 2026

The government rejected the opposition's demands for discussions on the VB-G RAM G Act and the SIR in the Budget session of Parliament, stating that the issues had already been debated.

'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.

Singapore PM removes Indian-origin Pritam Singh as LoP

Singapore PM removes Indian-origin Pritam Singh as LoP

Rediff.com15 Jan 2026

Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has removed Indian-origin Workers' Party chief Pritam Singh as Leader of the Opposition (LoP), and asked the opposition party to nominate another Member of Parliament (MP) to fill the position following Singh's conviction for lying to a parliamentary committee.

Before Kalam, BJP floated Vajpayee's name for Prez: Book

Before Kalam, BJP floated Vajpayee's name for Prez: Book

Rediff.com17 Dec 2025

A new book reveals that Atal Bihari Vajpayee rejected an offer to become President of India, a move that would have made Lal Krishna Advani Prime Minister. Vajpayee believed that a sitting PM becoming President would set a bad precedent for Indian democracy.

Govt ready to discuss SIR in RS as Opposition protests

Govt ready to discuss SIR in RS as Opposition protests

Rediff.com2 Dec 2025

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated the government is ready to discuss the special intensive revision of electoral rolls, but cautioned the Opposition against setting timelines. This comes after the Opposition demanded an immediate discussion on the matter, citing concerns over the safety of BLOs and the importance of the issue for democracy.

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.

Lok Sabha to discuss Vande Mataram, electoral reforms next week

Lok Sabha to discuss Vande Mataram, electoral reforms next week

Rediff.com2 Dec 2025

The Lok Sabha will debate the 150th anniversary of 'Vande Mataram' and electoral reforms after an all-party agreement, potentially breaking the logjam over discussions on Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

'An Abnormal, Unnatural, Result'

'An Abnormal, Unnatural, Result'

Rediff.com14 Nov 2025

'This calls for a very serious investigation, investigation and introspection both.' 'Wherever we went wrong needs proper introspection; but the results also need investigation.'

Thackeray cousins, Pawar lead 'Satyacha Morcha' over 'vote theft'

Thackeray cousins, Pawar lead 'Satyacha Morcha' over 'vote theft'

Rediff.com1 Nov 2025

The Maha Vikas Aghadi, along with MNS, held a protest march in Mumbai against alleged irregularities in the voters list, claiming it favors the ruling BJP. Key leaders participated and addressed a rally highlighting issues like multiple entries and wrongful deletions.

Justice Reddy Files Nomination For Veep Poll

Justice Reddy Files Nomination For Veep Poll

Rediff.com21 Aug 2025

Former Supreme Court judge B Sudershan Reddy -- the joint candidate of the Opposition parties -- filed his nomination papers for the for the vice-presidential election on Thursday, August 21, 2025.

Lawmakers' corruption erodes foundation of parliamentary democracy: SC

Lawmakers' corruption erodes foundation of parliamentary democracy: SC

Rediff.com4 Mar 2024

Corruption and bribery of members of the legislature erode the foundation of Indian parliamentary democracy, the Supreme Court said on Monday.

From one Radhakrishnan to another: Congress's reminder to VP-elect

From one Radhakrishnan to another: Congress's reminder to VP-elect

Rediff.com10 Sep 2025

The Congress party extended best wishes to the newly-elected Vice President of India, C P Radhakrishnan, while also recalling the words of the first Vice President, Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, on the importance of a strong opposition in a democracy.

Oppn plans to bring impeachment notice against EC chief over 'voter chori'

Oppn plans to bring impeachment notice against EC chief over 'voter chori'

Rediff.com18 Aug 2025

Opposition INDIA Bloc leaders are considering an impeachment notice against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over concerns about voter roll revision in Bihar and alleged vote theft. The move comes after the CEC addressed a press conference without addressing the opposition's questions.

Oppn candidate Reddy urges MPs to vote with conscience in VP polls

Oppn candidate Reddy urges MPs to vote with conscience in VP polls

Rediff.com7 Sep 2025

Opposition candidate B Sudershan Reddy appeals to MPs to vote with conscience in the upcoming vice presidential polls, urging them to prioritize the spirit of India and parliamentary traditions over party loyalty.

Bill to remove PM, CMs, ministers sent to parliamentary panel

Bill to remove PM, CMs, ministers sent to parliamentary panel

Rediff.com20 Aug 2025

Union Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday introduced three Bills in Lok Sabha for the removal of prime minister, chief ministers and ministers arrested on serious criminal charges for 30 days, drawing fierce protests from the Opposition as the draft laws were referred to a Joint Committee of Parliament. Three House marshals formed a protective ring around Shah. Even after the House was adjourned, the Opposition members continued with the sloganeering.

Oppn protests Bills on removal of arrested PM, CMs and ministers

Oppn protests Bills on removal of arrested PM, CMs and ministers

Rediff.com21 Aug 2025

Opposition parties allege the Modi government is attempting to turn India into a 'dictatorship' with the introduction of three Bills that seek to provide for removal of the prime minister, chief ministers and ministers arrested on serious charges, and vowed to oppose it 'tooth and nail'.

'Modi refused to give an exception': Rijiju on bills to remove PM, CMs

'Modi refused to give an exception': Rijiju on bills to remove PM, CMs

Rediff.com23 Aug 2025

Rijiju also hit out at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, saying that his own party MPs "get uncomfortable" when he speaks in Parliament and are apprehensive that he will do "anap-shanap baatein" and the party will have to bear the consequences.

'EC can't be churao aayog': Oppn MPs march to EC office

'EC can't be churao aayog': Oppn MPs march to EC office

Rediff.com11 Aug 2025

Wearing white caps with a red cross on the words 'SIR' and "vote chori", the protesting MPs started their march from Parliament's Makar Dwar raising slogans against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in Bihar and "vote chori" while carrying placards and banners.

'Prime Minister's Inclusion Is A Constitutional Mockery'

'Prime Minister's Inclusion Is A Constitutional Mockery'

Rediff.com22 Aug 2025

'This type of comprehensive legislation has never been introduced before in Parliament's history.' 'A bill that simultaneously affects ministers, chief ministers, and the prime minister represents completely uncharted Constitutional territory.' 'Throughout our nation's legislative history, the established policy has consistently held that public office holders should face punishment only after receiving conviction from a competent court of law. Without this safeguard, we risk systematic destabilisation, and our federal structure would face complete collapse.' 'Any central government could potentially deploy this legislation against state governments they oppose politically. This represents the most frightening prospect and dangerous possibility that these bills create.'

Speaker Birla ticks off Sonia for 'Waqf bill bulldozed' remark

Speaker Birla ticks off Sonia for 'Waqf bill bulldozed' remark

Rediff.com4 Apr 2025

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla criticized former Congress president Sonia Gandhi's remarks about the Waqf (Amendment) Bill being "bulldozed through" the Lower House. Birla said a senior member casting aspersions on the House proceedings was "most unfortunate" and against the dignity of parliamentary democracy. He pointed out that the bill was debated for 13 hours and 53 minutes with several members participating and was passed after multiple divisions.

Ravi Kishan Wins An Award Not For Films!

Ravi Kishan Wins An Award Not For Films!

Rediff.com18 May 2025

BJP MP and actor Ravi Kishan has been awarded the Sansad Ratna for his outstanding performance in the Lok Sabha, becoming the first actor-turned-politician to receive the honour.

Days after mega delimitation meet, Stalin writes to Modi

Days after mega delimitation meet, Stalin writes to Modi

Rediff.com2 Apr 2025

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin has reiterated his request to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss concerns over the proposed delimitation. In a social media post, Stalin reminded Modi of his earlier request for a meeting along with MPs from various parties to present a memorandum on the issue. He also shared a letter addressed to Modi on March 27, 2025, requesting an "audience" to formally submit the memorandum on behalf of the Joint Action Committee.

How Subramanian Swamy Escaped Arrest During The Emergency

How Subramanian Swamy Escaped Arrest During The Emergency

Rediff.com25 Jun 2025

'Is it right and proper for the US authorities to allow people like Subrahmanya Swamy [sic] go round the country preaching murder, violence, overthrow of the duly elected Government of India?' A fascinating excerpt from Sugata Srinivasaraju's The Conscience Network: A Chronicle of Resistance to a Dictatorship.

Only 1 of 4 named: Cong slams govt over skewed delegation picks

Only 1 of 4 named: Cong slams govt over skewed delegation picks

Rediff.com18 May 2025

The opposition party, however, said the four eminent Congress MPs and leaders who have been included at the instance of the Modi government will, of course, go with the delegations and make their contributions.

Listen to your conscience: Cong to party MPs picked by govt

Listen to your conscience: Cong to party MPs picked by govt

Rediff.com18 May 2025

The Congress on Sunday said it was not stopping anyone from being part of diplomatic delegations to be sent to various countries following Operation Sindoor and that its leaders who have been named at the instance of the government must listen to their conscience and contribute to the exercise.

Govt names 51 leaders to visit 33 world capitals, drops 3 from Cong list

Govt names 51 leaders to visit 33 world capitals, drops 3 from Cong list

Rediff.com18 May 2025

The delegations led by Baijayant Panda, Ravi Shankar Prasad (both Bharatiya Janata Party), Sanjay Kumar Jha (Janata Dal-United), Shrikant Shinde (Shiv Sena), Shashi Tharoor (Congress), Kanimozhi (Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam) and Supriya Sule (Nationalist Congress Party-Sharad Pawar) will visit a total of 32 countries and the EU headquarters in Brussels, Belgium.

'The BJP is bulldozing parliamentary democracy'

'The BJP is bulldozing parliamentary democracy'

Rediff.com16 Mar 2018

'Why wasn't my no-confidence motion tabled in the House?' asks YSRCP MP Y V Subba Reddy.

Difference in EVM votes, but don't have proof: Sharad Pawar

Difference in EVM votes, but don't have proof: Sharad Pawar

Rediff.com30 Nov 2024

NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar has alleged misuse of power and money to control the election mechanism in Maharashtra, calling for a mass revolt. He cites claims of EVM manipulation by the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and says that the situation was unprecedented, with money and power used to control the entire election process. Pawar also expressed concerns about the suppression of opposition voices in Parliament and the lack of response to concerns about EVM manipulation.

Oppn submits notice for moving no-trust motion against 'partisan' Veep

Oppn submits notice for moving no-trust motion against 'partisan' Veep

Rediff.com10 Dec 2024

Opposition parties on Tuesday submitted a notice to move a motion for removing Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar for allegedly conducting the House in a partisan manner.

More To Delimitation Than Meets The Eye

More To Delimitation Than Meets The Eye

Rediff.com1 Apr 2025

There is a proposal from the BJP camp that they would resort to a proportion-based increase in the number of Lok Sabha seats for individual states, based on what they now have. On the face of it, this sounds like a fine argument that those demanding a 'freeze' now cannot oppose without reasons and justification, avers N Sathiya Moorthy.

'India Must Not Support Nepal's Ex-King'

'India Must Not Support Nepal's Ex-King'

Rediff.com17 Apr 2025

'Gyanendra back on the throne would be bad news for the Nepali people. He may not have learnt from his experience, but we have.'

Same old...: Ambedkar's grandson on Shah's 'fashion' remark

Same old...: Ambedkar's grandson on Shah's 'fashion' remark

Rediff.com19 Dec 2024

"Before the BJP came into existence, its forerunners Jan Sangh and RSS had opposed Babasaheb while the Constitution was being adopted," Prakash Ambedkar, who heads Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi, told reporters in Pune.

Regrettable: BJP on INDIA bloc's no-trust move against VP

Regrettable: BJP on INDIA bloc's no-trust move against VP

Rediff.com10 Dec 2024

BJP Rajya Sabha MP Dinesh Sharma has rejected the opposition's move to impeach Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, calling it an attempt to disrupt House proceedings. Sharma claims there are no valid grounds to impeach Dhankhar, who is also the ex-officio chairman of the Rajya Sabha. The opposition parties submitted a notice to move a motion for removing Dhankhar for allegedly conducting the Upper House in a partisan manner. However, Sharma defended Dhankhar's conduct and asserted that he has been impartial in his role as chairman.

Voting showed BJP does not have 2/3 majority: Cong

Voting showed BJP does not have 2/3 majority: Cong

Rediff.com17 Dec 2024

The Congress on Tuesday claimed the bill on holding simultaneous polls was against federalism and 'anti-constitutional', and said the voting at its introduction stage in Lok Sabha showed the Bharatiya Janata Party lacks the two-thirds majority required to pass a constitutional amendment.

INDIA clashes with govt over speech at Constitution day event

INDIA clashes with govt over speech at Constitution day event

Rediff.com25 Nov 2024

Leaders of various INDIA bloc parties have written to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, urging him to allow leaders of the opposition in both Houses of Parliament to speak during the Constitution Day function to be held on Tuesday. The function will be addressed by President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. The letter, signed by leaders of various opposition parties, states that they believe in the best traditions and interests of Parliamentary democracy, the Leaders of Opposition (LoPs) in both Houses should also be given an opportunity to speak on this historic occasion. Parliamenary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, however, said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not be addressing the event and accused "some of the Opposition parties " of giving reactions without knowing the actual arrangement. He added that sitting arrangements have been made for the Leaders of Opposition of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha on the dais.

'Dr Singh Was The Best PM In Modern Times'

'Dr Singh Was The Best PM In Modern Times'

Rediff.com2 Jan 2025

'All the big things happening today in economic development have their beginning in Dr Manmohan Singh's ideas.'