The Indian Parliament is bracing for a stormy winter session as the opposition demands discussions on bribery allegations against the Adani Group and the ongoing violence in Manipur. The government, however, insists that the business advisory committees of both houses will determine the agenda. Congress has also called for deliberations on rising pollution and train accidents.
India's Parliament is gearing up for its Winter Session, scheduled from November 27th to December 20th, 2023, with a packed agenda featuring key bills like the Waqf amendment bill and the Merchant Shipping Bill. Opposition parties, uniting under the INDIA bloc, will strategize on November 25th to address concerns like the Manipur situation and AdGroup allegations.
Three people were killed and several others, including police officers, were injured during a court-ordered survey of the Jama Masjid in Sambhal, India. Violence erupted when a mob gathered outside the mosque, throwing stones and firing at police. The survey was ordered following claims that the mosque was built on the site of a former temple.
UN climate talks in Baku concluded with a disappointing $300 billion per year climate finance pledge from developed nations by 2035, falling short of the $1.3 trillion demanded by developing countries. India, a vocal advocate for the Global South, rejected the agreement, deeming it a «paltry sum» and criticizing the inclusion of private finance in the commitment.
India, standing with the Global South, rejected the COP29 climate finance deal, deeming the $300 billion pledge by 2035 woefully inadequate. Indian negotiator Chandni Raina criticized developed nations for shifting the financial burden and undermining the principle of equity. Experts echoed these concerns, calling the outcome a betrayal and a missed opportunity for meaningful climate action.
Forensic reports confirmed extensive injuries on three out of six victims, including a three-year-old boy, found dead after a clash between security forces and suspected militants in Manipur's Jiribam district. The victims, belonging to the Meitei community, went missing from a relief camp following the gunfight. Autopsy reports revealed bullet wounds, cuts, and fractures, indicating a brutal attack.
Following the BJP's resounding victory in the Maharashtra assembly elections, BJP MP and actor Kangana Ranaut attributed the Maha Vikas Aghadi's defeat to their alleged disrespect towards women, citing the 2020 demolition of her bungalow as evidence. She praised Prime Minister Modi's leadership and the people's desire for a stable government.
Schools and colleges in Manipur's Imphal Valley and Jiribam district are set to reopen on November 25th after a week-long closure due to violence and unrest. The decision comes as the state grapples with ethnic clashes that have claimed over 220 lives since May.
Following his party's disappointing performance in the Maharashtra assembly elections, Sharad Pawar acknowledged the results were unexpected. He attributed the outcome to high women voter turnout and a need for the opposition alliance to have intensified their efforts. Pawar defended his decision to field candidates against his nephew Ajit Pawar's faction, emphasizing the need for electoral competition within the state.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on National Cadet Corps Day. He shared his personal experiences as an NCC cadet. Modi emphasized the role of NCC in developing discipline and leadership qualities in youth. He also acknowledged the contributions of the Indian diaspora in Guyana in preserving Indian culture.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut criticizes former Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud, alleging his inaction on disqualification petitions facilitated defections in Maharashtra. Raut believes this impacted the recent assembly election results, where the Shiv Sena (UBT) suffered significant losses.
DMK spokesperson TKS Elangovan launched fresh attacks on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and alleged that the party has no political morals adding that they somehow «manipulate their victory through unlawful means.»
Three prominent Indian politicians – Sharad Pawar, Priyanka Chaturvedi, and Sanjay Raut – face an uncertain future in the Rajya Sabha. Their current terms are set to expire in 2026 and 2028, but their parties lack the necessary votes to secure their re-election.
