News for 'Upper House of Parliament'

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

'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.

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.

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.

Nepal's upper house endorses new map proposal

Nepal's upper house endorses new map proposal

Rediff.com14 Jun 2020

Now, the bill will undergo a similar process in the National Assembly, wherein the ruling Nepal Communist Party commands two-thirds majority.

'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.

'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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

'Keralites Accept BJP As A Mainstream Contender For Power'

'Keralites Accept BJP As A Mainstream Contender For Power'

Rediff.com3 days ago

'When Narendra Modi was here, he spoke only about development and what the BJP wanted to do in Kerala. That kind of sober rhetoric or argument is acceptable to the people here.'

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Oli govt recommends calling winter session of upper house on Jan 1

Oli govt recommends calling winter session of upper house on Jan 1

Rediff.com26 Dec 2020

Nepal plunged into a political crisis after President Bidya Devi Bhandari dissolved the House of Representatives and announced dates for mid-term elections at the recommendation of Prime Minister Oli on Sunday, sparking protests from a section of the ruling party and various opposition parties.

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.

Uproar in Parl as Kharge raises Dhankhar's 'sudden exit'

Uproar in Parl as Kharge raises Dhankhar's 'sudden exit'

Rediff.com1 Dec 2025

Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge assured Chairman CP Radhakrishnan of cooperation from the Congress party in the smooth conduct of the House, while also urging him to treat the Opposition and Treasury benches equally. He also mentioned the previous Chairman, triggering protests.

Govt open to debate on SIR, but don't insist timeline, Rijiju tells Oppn

Govt open to debate on SIR, but don't insist timeline, Rijiju tells Oppn

Rediff.com1 Dec 2025

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated the government is open to discussing electoral reforms in the Rajya Sabha, urging the Opposition not to impose a timeline. Opposition parties staged a walkout after demanding an immediate discussion on the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls.

Birla to announce panel to probe Justice Verma

Birla to announce panel to probe Justice Verma

Rediff.com24 Jul 2025

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla is likely to announce the formation of an inquiry committee to probe the charges against Allahabad High Court Judge Yashwant Varma. A notice signed by 152 MPs was submitted to Birla on July 21.

Nehru did a 'tukde-tukde' of Vande Mataram: Modi

Nehru did a 'tukde-tukde' of Vande Mataram: Modi

Rediff.com8 Dec 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi initiated a discussion on 150 years of Vande Mataram in the Lok Sabha, recalling the Emergency period when the national song completed 100 years.

Pakistan creates new post of Chief of Defence Forces

Pakistan creates new post of Chief of Defence Forces

Rediff.com8 Nov 2025

Pakistan on Saturday brought in a Constitutional amendment to create a new post of chief of defence forces to ensure greater coordination and unified command among the three services.

Parliament passes National Sports Bill after extensive discussion

Parliament passes National Sports Bill after extensive discussion

Rediff.com12 Aug 2025

The National Sports Governance Bill was on Tuesday passed by the Parliament with Rajya Sabha giving its nod a mere 24 hours after Lok Sabha.

Vice President Has No Salary of His Own

Vice President Has No Salary of His Own

Rediff.com8 Sep 2025

'There is no provision for a specific salary for the vice president; instead, they receive remuneration and benefits commensurate with their role as the chairman of the Rajya Sabha.'

C P Radhakrishnan sworn-in as Vice President, Dhankhar attends ceremony

C P Radhakrishnan sworn-in as Vice President, Dhankhar attends ceremony

Rediff.com12 Sep 2025

Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan was sworn in as the 15th Vice President of India, succeeding Jagdeep Dhankhar.

Pak's 27th Amendment seeks to clip SC powers, triggers protest calls

Pak's 27th Amendment seeks to clip SC powers, triggers protest calls

Rediff.com9 Nov 2025

It also aims to reduce the powers of the Supreme Court, with some authorities shifted to the proposed Constitutional Court, and immunity to the president from criminal proceedings for life.

Where is ex-VP Dhankhar?: Raut writes to Amit Shah

Where is ex-VP Dhankhar?: Raut writes to Amit Shah

Rediff.com11 Aug 2025

Pakistani Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir reiterated Pakistan's stance on Kashmir, calling it the country's 'jugular vein' during an address to the Pakistani diaspora in Tampa, Florida. He also discussed Pakistan-US relations and the potential for increased investment.

SIR row: RS Chair warns against sharing expunged speeches online

SIR row: RS Chair warns against sharing expunged speeches online

Rediff.com19 Aug 2025

Rajya Sabha Chair addresses the issue of expunged proceedings being shared on social media amidst ongoing stalemate between the government and opposition regarding a discussion on Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bihar.

No-trust motion against Dhankhar: BJD refuses to commit

No-trust motion against Dhankhar: BJD refuses to commit

Rediff.com10 Dec 2024

BJD president Naveen Patnaik has stated that his party will take "necessary steps" in response to the INDIA bloc's potential move to bring a no-confidence motion against Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar. While Patnaik did not explicitly confirm BJD's support for the motion, he emphasized that the party will take appropriate action. The BJD holds seven seats in the Rajya Sabha, making their stance significant as the opposition lacks the required numbers to pass the motion.

Dhankhar has been keeping unwell, but was mostly seen energetic in RS

Dhankhar has been keeping unwell, but was mostly seen energetic in RS

Rediff.com22 Jul 2025

In June, on a visit to Nainital in Uttarakhand, Dhankhar had collapsed at the Kumaon University.