Parliament Budget Session last day LIVE: RS, LS adjourned sine die amid ruckus over bounty on Mamata's head

Opposition and ruling united over bounty row on Mamata Banerjee’s head

The Lok Sabha on Wednesday condemned a BJP youth wing leader’s offer for a bounty of Rs 11 lakh to anyone who beheads West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Raising the issue soon after the House assembled to take up the day’s business, TMC member Saugata Roy said a BJP youth wing leader had made the “announcement” of giving the reward for beheading Banerjee, after police resorted to lathicharge in Birbhum district to disperse a rally during Hanuman Jayanti. “Mamata Banerjee is not only an elected chief minister but a former member of this House too. It is a serious and alarming behaviour and the House must condemn it. She is a grassroot leader and government must take action on it,” he said.

Lok Sabha adjourned sine die

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2017

First leg of Budget Session productive: LS functioned for 113%, Rajya Sabha for 97%

The first part of the Budget Session was very productive as Lok Sabha functioned 113 percent while Rajya Sabha 97 percent. The productivity in the second half of the budget session till now for Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha has been 112 percent and 87 percent. 

The Companies (Amendment) Bill, 2016 and The Repealing and Amending Bill, 2017 is scheduled for consideration and passage in Lok Sabha today.

MPs create ruckus in Parliament

The matter echoed on in the Parliament on Wednesday as TMC leaders raised the issue in Rajya Sabha, which garnered support from other parties as well. Samajwadi Party Rajya Sabha MP Jaya Bacchan expressed anguish on the BJP leader’s remark, stating that the BJP was keen on protecting cows but not women.

TMC’s Saugata Roy also strongly condemned the BJP leader’s statement urging strong action against people who make such provocations. Meanwhile, BJP has distanced itslef from Varshney’s comments, stating that the West Bengal state government is free to take action against him.

Last day of Budget Session – here’s a quick recap of the session

Today is the last day of the Budget Session of Parliament. The first half of the session was held from 31 January to 9 February and after a month-long recess the second half of the session began on 9 March. During the session till now, the Lok Sabha has passed 21 bills and the Rajya Sabha 14 bills. They include the Enemy Property (Amendment and Validation) Bill, The Mental Health Care Bill, The Maternity Benefits (Amendment) Bill, The Payment of Wages (Amendment) Bill, 2017 and the crucial four supporting bills for the roll out of the Goods and Services Tax. 

Scrapping a colonial-era tradition of presenting the Budget at the end of February, for the first time in the history of Independent India, the Government presented the annual accounts on 1 February. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday described the Budget Session as a winner for the treasury benches. He said, the government was able to secure passage of many key bills in the Parliament.

The Repealing and Amending Bill, 2017 also listed in LS for passage today.

— PRS Legislative (@PRSLegislative) April 12, 2017

The Repealing and Amending Bill, 2017 also listed in LS for passage today.

— PRS Legislative (@PRSLegislative) April 12, 2017

BJP leaders distance themselves from Yogesh Varshney’s comment

BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi disowned Varshney’s comment, saying: “I condemn this type of statement. The state government can take proper action.” BJYM leader Varshney issued the outrageous threat while hitting out at Mamata over police action on a rally held on Sunday to mark Hanuman Jayanti in Birbhum district.

Alleging that people were beaten up brutally by the police, Varshney described Mamata as a “demon” and said, “When I saw the video, I only had one thought… that if anyone gets me Mamata Banerjee’s head I will give them 11 lakh.”

Last leg of budget session favourable for BJP govt

The second half of the budget session of Parliament, which ends on Wednesday, has been favourable to the ruling NDA, which not only managed to push its economic reforms agenda but also put up a united front. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday told the parliamentary party of the BJP that the session was a victory for the Union government.

Actor and MP Jaya Bachchan, along with BJP leader from Bengal Rupa Ganguly, reacting sharply to the comments against Mamata

Must take steps for protection of women aggressively. You are protecting cows but atrocities being commited on women-Jaya Bachchan, SP in RS pic.twitter.com/ES3sx5AHhW

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2017

Bounty announced for Mamata; Rajya Sabha slams BJYM leader Yogesh Varshney

After a day of ruckus in Parliament over the “illegal” death penalty given to former Indian Navy officer Kulbhushan Jadhav, MPs in Rajya Sabha were up in arms after a Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) leader announced a reward of Rs 11 lakh to whoever who beheads West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and gets her head.

The remark, which came shortly after a lathicharge which happened at Birbhum district to disperse a rally raising slogans of “Jai Sri Ram” on Hanuman Jayanti, recieved a lot of flak and criticism.

BJYM leader Yogesh Varshney told ANI, “Those who will cut and bring West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee head, I will give that person Rs.11 lakh. Mamata Banerjee never allows Saraswati Puja, fairs during Ram Navami and during Hanuman Jayanti procession, people were lathi charged and brutally beaten up. She organizes Iftar party and always supports Muslims.”

Here’s what Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said about the Alwar incident in Rajya Sabha 

“Hamare desh mein yeh message nahi jana chahiye ki hum yeh hatya ko samarthan kar raha hai… issliye it is a very sensitive issue.. crore logo ke bhavnao se judha hua mudha hai.. hamara aisa koi message nahi jana chahiye ki hum hatiya ke samarthan mein khade hue hai (This issue is a very sensitive issue. There should be no indication or message that we are backing those who are violent. It’s an emotional issue for crores of people.) Issliye jis particular state ki barein mein jo baat kar rahe hai, us tarah ki koi bhi ghatna, jis tarah ki ghatna pesh ki ja rahi hai, aise koi ghatna zameen par nahi hui hai. Jis media report ki barein mein bat ki ja rahi hai, us state ki sarkar ne pehle hi condemn kiya hai. (No such incident, as being reported, has taken place on the ground. The media report which are being cited, the concerned state government has already condemned.)"

Version of Alwar incident reported by media is untrue: Naqvi in Rajya Sabha

Dismissing the version of events of the killing of a Muslim man by cow vigilante groups in Rajasthan’s Alwar amid growing uproar over the alleged murder, Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Thursday said, “Jis tarah ki ghatna pesh ki ja rahi hai, us tarah ki ghatna zameen par hua nehi (The version of events presented didn’t occur).” 

Naqvi was addressing the Rajya Sabha amid an uproar over the Alwar incident. As a united Opposition slammed the government for doing nothing against rogue groups thrashing people on the pretext of cow protection, Naqvi said, “This issue is a very sensitive issue. The message should not go from the House that we are supporting cow slaughter. Millions of people’s sentiments are involved in the issue.”

Jis tarah ki ghatna pesh ki ja rahi hai, aisi koi ghatna zameen par nahi hui hai: Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi in RS on Rajasthan's Alwar incident pic.twitter.com/ZqrUBwdwP1

— ANI (@ANI) April 6, 2017

Congress slams Union minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi for denying Alwar lynching

Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, Union minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi denied that any lynching had taken place in Rajasthan’s Alwar. Reacting to this, Leader of Opposition, Ghulam Nabi Azad said that even the New York Times had carried a report on the lynching.

Rahul Gandhi blames PM Modi, RSS for rising intolerance

Anybody who doesn't listen to & agree with Narendra Modi and RSS has no place in India, that's their vision: Rahul Gandhi on Alwar incident pic.twitter.com/QpjYBeaM7p

— ANI (@ANI) April 6, 2017

Ravindra Gaikwad compares himself to Mahatma Gandhi

The Shiv Sena MP says Airlines imposing travel ban on him is like Mahatma Gandhi being thrown out of train in South Africa.

Not censuring Ravindra Gaikwad for unruly behaviour an opportunity lost

It is indeed sad that the conduct of this elected representative is just another passing news shower. Everyone seems happy that airlines have banned him from flying, a minor inconvenience that will melt away in a few days. In no way does it highlight the frequent high-handedness by VIPs in India where aviation is concerned — nobody said ’enough is enough now, put on your seatbelt and shut up!'

Read more here.

Shiv Sena MPs allegedly threatened to stop flights from Mumbai 

Also heard amidst din during argument between BJP and Shiv Sena leaders "won't let airlines fly from Mumbai": Sources

— ANI (@ANI) April 6, 2017

Shiv Sena MP Anant Geete, other party  MPs heckle Civil Aviation Ashok Gajapati Raju

​

The scenes turned ugly in the Lok Sabha as Shiv Sena MPs tried to gherao the minister. However, Home Minister Rajnath Singh and other ministers came to Raju’s rescue.

Ravindra Gaikwad’s defence over the Air India ruckus

Shiv Sena MP says that he had no altercation with the AI staff. According to his version of the story, he had booked a seat in business class but was made to sit in economy class. 

Hear his defence here. 

Sena MP Ravindra Gaikwad plays victim and accuses AI employee of saying that 'you may be an MP but you're not PM' pic.twitter.com/7ND5RmwkxU

— News18 (@CNNnews18) April 6, 2017

Ravindra Gaikwad’s defence over the Air India ruckus

Shiv Sena MP says that he had no altercation with the AI staff. According to his version of the story, he had booked a seat in business class but was made to sit in economy class. 

Hear his defence here. 

Sena MP Ravindra Gaikwad plays victim and accuses AI employee of saying that 'you may be an MP but you're not PM' pic.twitter.com/7ND5RmwkxU

— News18 (@CNNnews18) April 6, 2017

Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi on Alwar lynching 

Shocking breakdown of law & order in Alwar, expect Govt to take strict action against those responsible, tweets Rahul Gandhi pic.twitter.com/boMk2bYFfU

— ANI (@ANI) April 6, 2017

Lok Sabha adjourned till 12.45 pm after ruckus over Ravindra Gaikwad’s statement on Air India row

Gaikwad remains defiant 

I apologise to the Parliament if I’ve caused any hurt, but not to the Air India official: Ravindra Gaikwad,Shiv Sena MP in Lok Sabha.

AI staff caught me by collar: Gaikwad

Ravindra Gaikwad says that the Air India staff assaulted him. He says that the officials of the airline caught him by his collar and his reaction was in defence.

Ravindra Gaikwad pleads his innocence 

Maine kya gunaah kiya? Mera kya apraadh hai ki jaanch ke bina media trial ho raha hai?: Ravindra Gaikwad,Shiv Sena MP in Lok Sabha

— ANI (@ANI) April 6, 2017

Watch Ravindra Gaikwad speaking in Lok Sabha

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#WATCH Live: Shiv Sena MP Ravindra Gaikwad speaking in Lok Sabha https://t.co/7cYNiIVwSQ

— ANI (@ANI) April 6, 2017

Shiv Sena MP Ravindra Gaikwad speaks on AIr India issue 

Gaikwad began by saying that the airline staff treated him badly. He also added that he must get justice from the Speaker of the Lok Sabha. Gaikwad blames media for launching a trial against him.

Rajnath Singh on Alwar Lynching

Rajnath Singh says that the Rajasthan government has taken cognisance of the case and that a FIR has been filed on the issue and people have been arrested.

Alwar lynching rocks Rajya Sabha 

After the man lynched in Alwar died on Wednesday, the Congress party asked for a discussion on the issue. Mallikarjun Kharge says that the Rajasthan Government failed to act on the issue. He added that this was the fifth such incident in Rajasthan.

We are seeing history in the making: Jaitley on Lok Sabha passing GST bill

We are virtually seeing history in the making because we are now going to be transforming into a new system of indirect taxation: FM Jaitley pic.twitter.com/q2Mp7QeZKg

— ANI (@ANI) March 29, 2017

#GSTbill passed in Lok Sabha! A historic bill! For the first time, a federal institution has been created in the form of a #GST council. pic.twitter.com/GogDE2JVUf

— Col Rajyavardhan Rathore (@Ra_THORe) March 29, 2017

PM Narendra Modi hails passage of GST bill

GST बिल पास होने पर सभी देशवासियों को बधाई | नया साल, नया कानून, नया भारत!

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 29, 2017

Three of the four GST bills passed in the Parliament

Jaitley concludes govt stand on new tax regime, requests House to pass it as is

Arun Jaitley said that the government has strived to ensure that the GST council is representatve of everybody’s interest and the body debating the draft of the bill also included representatives from each state.

“Council will be a permanent body with a political complexion that accommodates everyone and has representatives from every state. Therefore I request the House to pass the bill unanimously drafted by a representative council as is,” Jaitley said.

No tax on agriculture under GST regime: Jaitley

Jaitley sought to reassure the Lok Sabha on the changing tax regime as far as foodgrains are concered. The finance minister said that Agriculture as and industry and foodgrain have always remained exempt from taxes and they always will.

Arun Jaitley says no precedent of a taxation bill not being a money bill

“This law seeks to replace the Central Excise law, Service Tax law etc and consolidates them into one. So here is a taxation law that alters the tax regime and replaces existing tax laws then how come it won’t be a money bill,” Jaitley asked.

He said he was ready to sit and wait for the Opposition to point out even one precedent when a taxation bill has not been treated as a money bill.

Oppn alleges govt made GST bill a money bill only to override Rajya Sabha, where BJP does not enjoy majority

Watch: Arun Jaitley respond to Oppn in Lok Sabha

WATCH: FM Arun Jaitley speaking on GST bill in Lok Sabha https://t.co/b7rnBPkGKn

— ANI (@ANI) March 29, 2017

Anti-profiteering clause a must in GST bill to check inflation: Jaitley

I didn’t make this law, it was 7 Congress finance ministers who did: Arun Jaitley

Compensation package was introduced only to bring on-board the manufacturing states: Jaitley

Jaitley said that the council introduced the provision of a compensation package only for the benefit of manufacturing states as we saw that the transition to GST would affect them adversely while it benefited the consuming state.

For one commodity their will be one rate of tax in the country: Arun Jaitley

Jaitley said that one commodity will have a single rate of tax across the country, but it is not necessary that two different commodities enjoy the same rate of GST.

Arun Jaitley responds to Congress’ objection says parliament’s right to form legislation plenary

Jaitley said that the idea that we can deviate from GST council’s recommendations is problematic and ill advised as the laws will keep changing depending on the colour of the political party in power. Therefore to protect the structure of federalism that the government is trying to implement it is imperative that the GST council has the power to decide on taxation issues.

However, the finance minister added that the Parliament will have the power to send back a suggestion for reconsideration. He also reassured the House that the power to form a legislation is plenary to the Parliament.

Congress questions the amount of power GST council will wield, says Parliament will no longer have power to debate/ amend taxation laws

INC leader Veerappa Moily, interrupts Jaitleys speaks, asks if GST council is supreme power, who will protect the funds

Arun Jaitley defends GST bill after Oppn arguments, says goods will slightly become cheaper after new tax law

Greater impetus will be on self assessment under GST: Jaitley

Arun jaitley told the Lok Sabha that the new tax regime is designed in a way that larger impetus is placed on self assessment of tax for the people, barring limited cases of audits. He said this will not only simplify the tax filing process but do away with multiple layers of taxation for the common man.

GST will aide free flow of goods and services across the country: Jaitley

“There is no free flow of goods and services in the country. The objective of the new tax regime was to establish such a system that when goods and services flow across company, taxes are levied at a uniform rate and a single window,” Jaitley said.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley responds to Oppn on GST

Jaitley started off by thanking the members of Opposition for engaging in a debate. He then pointed out that the debate was crucial as once the GST bill becomes an act, it will drastically change the tax regime in the region.

Jaitley also said that multiple window taxation system has ailed the economy since long and must be fixed in favour of the common man.

Bishnu Pada Ray terms Narendra Modi ‘Bharat ka hero’; has sycophancy got no limits?

Bishnu Pada Ray, BJP member from Andaman and Nicobar Islands was all praise for prime minister Narendra Modi. He termed Modi “Bharat ka hero” and Arun Jaitley and other ministers as “ratan – Sab ke sab ratan.” Clearly, sycophancy has no limits.

He also said that the UPA couldn’t implement GST was its failure.

#sidebar
Bishnu Pada Ray (BJP) calls Narendra Modi "Bharat Ka Hero" and Arun Jaitley & Ministers as "ratan. Sab ke sab ratan."#HouseWhelmed pic.twitter.com/BhCYp2KwtG

— HasParlAdjournedYet (@HasParlAdjYet) March 29, 2017

Joice George warns with GST Council, Parliament won’t have power to decide tax rate

Independent member Joice George from Idukki wanted to know under what category will spices be in.

He too raised concerns about the GST Council taking over Parliament’s powers to fix the tax rate.

“We will not have any say on the tax imposed on the common man,” he said.

NK Premachandran raises concerns over GST Council getting arbitrary powers 

NK Premachandran of RSP accused the BJP of toppling UPA’s efforts bring about the reform and taking advantage now to impelement them.

“The BJP, then principal opposition, opposed it only on political considerations,” he said.

According to him, the present GST Bill abrogates the powers of the state governments.

He quoted from an article by renowned economist Prabhat Patnaik and asked whether we should sacfricice a basic feature of our federalisation for an uncertain gain?

Also with the right to decide the tax rate being vested with the GST Council, the supremacy of Parliament in violation of Article 265.

GST Council is getting artbitrary powers, he said.

Rajiv Satav warns if not adequately prepared, GST may become demonetisation-like disaster

Rajiv Satav of the Congress reminded prime minister Narendra Modi what he said about GST implementation when he was Gujarat chief minister.

As the chief minister, Modi had warned that without the technological backbone, GST implementation is not possible.

Is the present government prepared on this front yet, Satav asked.

He also cautioned that if it is not ready technologically, the implementation may turn out to be as disastrous as demonetisation.

He also reminded that it was the UPA that lighted this candle, not the UPA.

Trinamool’s Saugata Roy says businesses not prepared yet, let’s not hurry 

Saugata Roy of the Trinamool Congress said he is supporting the bill with a lot of reservations, with a heavy heart. It is a transgression into the powers of Parliament. GST Council will have more powers on taxation. The states’ freedom is curtailed too.

Explaining why his party supported the reform, he said it was thought that the GST would benefit the people. It will bring down tax-related inflation and taxes themselves. 

One nation one tax is a BJP-like slogan. But it is not one tax under GST, he pointed out. The rate starts from 0 percent and goes beyond 40 percent.

In the EU, different countries have different rates. “We should have GST experimentally with reservations,” he said.

Moreover, there is no clarity on where will the money for compensating states come from.

Just like Moily, Roy too warned of a turf war between states and the Centre on tax revenue.

“The Centre seems to be in a hurry. In a hurry, you have not yet fixed the rates. There are more than 4,000 rates. Basic questions have not been answered. Business is totally unprepared for GST. They do not what tax they will pay,” he said. 

Let’s not hurry, says Roy.

Trinamool’s Saugata Roy says businesses not prepared yet, let’s not hurry 

Saugata Roy of the Trinamool Congress said he is supporting the bill with a lot of reservations, with a heavy heart. It is a transgression into the powers of Parliament. GST Council will have more powers on taxation. The states’ freedom is curtailed too.

Explaining why his party supported the reform, he said it was thought that the GST would benefit the people. It will bring down tax-related inflation and taxes themselves. 

One nation one tax is a BJP-like slogan. But it is not one tax under GST, he pointed out. The rate starts from 0 percent and goes beyond 40 percent.

In the EU, different countries have different rates. “We should have GST experimentally with reservations,” he said.

Moreover, there is no clarity on where will the money for compensating states come from.

Just like Moily, Roy too warned of a turf war between states and the Centre on tax revenue.

“The Centre seems to be in a hurry. In a hurry, you have not yet fixed the rates. There are more than 4,000 rates. Basic questions have not been answered. Business is totally unprepared for GST. They do not what tax they will pay,” he said. 

Let’s not hurry, says Roy.

Poonamben Maadam says the Bill is NDA’s political magnanimity, sees holistic development

Poonamben Maadam, BJP MP from Jamnagar, is doing what her party colleagues do the best – eulogise the Modi administration.

“It’s the political magnanimity of government to take this initiative. Holistic development of nation assured,” she says.

Sirajuddin Ajmal seeks special attention for North Eastern states

Sirajuddin Ajmal a member from Assam pointed out that all the countries that implemented GST has seen societal unrest. There has been spike in inflation.

It seems the government wants to kill small businesses and help the big businesses, he said. 

This is in keeping with the complaints from many small and medium business enterprises, which have expressed their concern that the tax reform will have a negative impact on their financial health.

“There are many objections from trade organisation as every month 3 registration have to be done. Many traders have made representations but none have been heard,” Ajmal said.

He also urged the govenrment to give a special attention to North Eastern states just the way J&K is given.

Ram Kumar Sharma says petroleum is cash cow for govts, bring it under GST

Ram Kumar Sharma Khushwaha of the Rashtriya Lok Samata Party says the classification of goods is still unclear. He urges the government to bring petrol products under GST and decide a timeframe by when.

“Petroleum has not been brought under GST and it will be brought under the regime. When will it be brought under ambit GST should be known,” he said adding petroleum is cash cow for governments.

“If it is not bought under GST ambit then one country one tax will not hold true. Until then the progress that the government is talking about will not come.

Poonam Mahajan’s spirited support of the Bill, uses Akbar-Birbal story to drive point

Poonmam Mahajan makes a fervent speech in support of the GST Bill.

She says one nation one tax is going to be a reality with the Bill. 

“There have been various opposition to the reform. I am surprised whether they are interested in progress in their states,” she said attacking the opposition.

She even narrated an Akbar-Birbal story. 

#sidebar After @poonam_mahajan's fiery speech with plenty analogies cheers and support ring across aisles, "agla generation hai BJP ka!!" pic.twitter.com/F7xw2fiWoS

— HasParlAdjournedYet (@HasParlAdjYet) March 29, 2017

Supriya Sule raises worries over data leak from GSTN, seeks precautionary steps

Supriya Sule raises another major concern – data leak.

Sule pointed out GSTN will possess all the data of the taxpayers.

“What are the steps you take to protect the data?” she asked reminding that any data theft will cost the country dearly.

She also said there are many hiccups in GST and also sought to know what could be exact impact of the reform on GDP and FDI?

Varaprasad Rao urges govt to not impose high tax on drinks like Pepsi, consumer durables 

Varaprasad Rao of the YSR Congress Party asks are there any plans to bring alcohol and petroleum products within the ambit of GST? 

He also wants the government to look at the additional cess on consumer durables as this will affect common man. According to him the total cess may even touch 48 percent. 

He also urged the government to not levy higher cess on aerated drinks like Pepsi as this impacts even the common man.

Mulayam Singh Yadav brings up farmer suicides, rural issues. Slightly out of place?

Mulayam Singh Yadav of the Smajwadi Party brings up the issue of farmer suicides.

“GST does nothing for the rural population. Can the govt bring a legislation to tackle farmer suicides?” asks he and digresses completely. Ramen Deka, who is in chair, intervenes to remind him that GST is the subject of discussion.

“Mulayamji, GST mein aayiye,” Deka said.

GST will increase the inequality between the rich and the poor

Mohammed Salim of CPM attacks the GST Bill saying it will only increase the inequality between the rich and the poor.

“Unifying tax but dividing people,” he said. He said the reform will localise principles and universalie the markets.

GST is an indirect tax which will impact everybody equally, the rich and the poor. This is why it increases inequality.

Vishweshwar Reddy of TRS compares Bill to ugadi pachadi – khatta, meetha and kadva

Konda Vishweshwar Reddy of Telengana Rashtra Samithi makes the best comparison of the GSt Bill – it is like ugadi pachadi- khatta, meetha and kadva.

“But it’s healthy and wholesome,” he says.

He goes on to explain how the Bill has some positives and negatives of the reform.

As for the meetha, the GST Bill is ushering in a new era.

According to him, tax compliant hospitals and builders may have a competitive disadvantage. “This can be bitter.”

As for kadva he points out there could be an increase in tax inspections. “This goes against PM’s maximum governance, minimum government,” he says.

AP will loose 2000 Crore annually due to GST: TDP MP Jayadev Galla

While lauding the overall GST tax regime, the TDP MP pointed out that the GST will benefit the consumer states, it will add to the agony of other states, including Andhra Pradesh.

The MP said that the Centre must look at the pathetic fiscal condition of AP, post the division of the state, and compensate it accordingly. He said that the Telegu state will lose as much as Rs 2000 Crore annually.

TDP MP Jayadev Galla lauds Arun Jaitley for tax reforms, says no power can stop GST from becoming reality

Lauding Arun Jaitley for making way for a new tax regime, TDP MP Jayadev Galla said that with GST ready to be rolled out, India will leave behind many nations, including China. He also said that with the constitutional supporting amendments passed, there was nothing that could stop GST from becoming a reality.

Bhartruhari Mahtab says GST will increase compliance costs

Bhartruhari Mahtab is concerned that GST will increase the compliance costs.

This is not in spirit of ease of doing business, he says.

He also pointed out that agriculture is being taxed being calculated with our other solurces of income. “Can we deny it?” he asks. According to him, four states were agains this but their this was brushed aside.

Bhartruhari Mahtab asks what is need for anti-profiteering clause? What is competition law for?

Bhartruhari Mahtab of the Bju Janata Dal is questioning the rational behind the anti-profiteering clause in the GST Bill.

‘We have a competition law in the country. Why is the anti profiteering provision necessary? What is the Competition law for?" he asks.

Bhartruhari Mahtab of BJD says expecting too much from Bill will be illusory

Bhartruhari Mahtab of the Bju Janata Dal feels it will be illusory to expect too much from GST.

“GST hinges on revenue neutral rate. These are now fixed at 0, 5, 12, 18 and 28 percent and above. We will know only after the first year if it’s revenue neutral or not,” Mahtab says.

Trinamool’s Kalyan Banerjee says 1 July is not the ending, pushes for 1 Sep deadline

Trinamool Congress’s Kalyan Banerjee says his state has stood up for marginalised and needy. “West Bengal pushed hard for GST and threshold to be raised so that small traders are kept out of the ambit of GST,” he said.

He stresses for the need to give time for businesses to prepare for the reform. 

The rate structure. Unless the industry is informed about the rates and sufficient time is given, it will be difficult for them to prepare for the rollout, he says.

“1 July is not the ending,” he says pushing for a 1 September deadline.

Will the commercial tax department become redundant, asks AIADMK’s Venkatesh Babu

AIADMK’s Venkatesh Babu asks a pertinent question.

Will the commercial tax dept be made redundant by GST? What will happen to the staff in the department? Will they lose jobs?

AIADMK’s Venkatesh Babu raises issues Tamil Nadu faces; pegs state loss at Rs 9,270 cr

AIADMK’s T G Venkatesh Babu says the GST is indeed the biggest reform the country is witnessing.

He points out that industries like banking, insurance and e-commerce should have another chance to resolve any issues.

However, he raises the concerns of Tamil Nadu about the impact of proposed reform on the fiscal economy. 

“It is quite clear that a manufacturing state like Tamil Nadu will permanently lose revenue if GST is implemented.” He estimates the extent of revnue loss for the state under GST at Rs 9,270 crore.

Udit Raj says onus not on BJP for the Rs 12 lakh cr loss on account of delay 

The Rs 12 lakh crore loss incurred due to the delay in implementation of GST Bill is not on the BJP’s account. Veerappa Moily had earlier said that it was the UPA which introduced the Bill and the BJP had then opposed then. The delay on account of this had resulted in a Rs 12 lakh cr loss for the country.

Udit Raj counters Moily, says the Bill won’t abrogate State’s powers

BJP member Udit Raj counters Veerappa Moily’s contentions on the NDA’s GST Bill. 

He doesn’t believe that the GST Bill will abrogate the powers of the state. 

“I disagree that power of states will be abrogated. The state governments have agreed to GST,” he says.

The reform will bring in uniformity in the country by doing away with different kinds of indirect taxes.

Veerappa Moily terms the Bill a technological nightmare; one tax one nation is a myth 

According to Veerappa Moily, GST will be a technological nightmare. “Officials implementing it will suffer. No ad-hoc provision to make payment, give credit,” he says.

He wants the tax payers to be educated, made aware of the new system. “One tax one nation is a myth,” he says.

He points out that the common man will have to file multiple forms. He urged the finance minister to explain how the compliance can be simlified.

“The intentions can be good but you are bringing anarchy into the country. There will be turnf war between the states and the Centre,” Moily says.

Veerappa Moily reminds of US developments, says Indians have a chalta hai attitude 

Moily reminds the members of the developments on the immigration front in the US under Donald Trump. He says how a Federal Court there took a stance against the new laws. Moily says the reaction in India is nothing like there. “We have a chalta hai attitude,” he says.

May be the Opposition parties themselves should do an introspection on what is happening in India. Don’t they have a chalta hai attitude?

This is not a game-changer as it is made out to be, Veerappa Moily on NDA’s Bill 

Veerappa Moily notes that there are too many rates in the present Bill. In fact, there are seven rates including the cesses, he points out.

“This is not a game-changer as it is made out to be,” Moily says.

This is indeed an issue many experts have raised. But the question is will a country like India with varied economies be able to have a single rate at all?

Political gamble over the Bill cost Rs 12 lakh cr; Veerappa Moily asks who will make up?

The Congress’s Veerappa Moily says Political gamble over GST Bill has cost India almost Rs 12 lakh crore. “We should rise above politics. Who is to make up for this loss?” he asks.

Veerappa Moily says BJP opposed the bill when UPA launched; people lost their money

The Congress’s Veerappa Moily says the UPA introduced the Bill and the BJP, then in the opposition, opposed the bill. This delayed the bill by 7-8 years. The political parties did not take the interests of the citizens into consideration.

“As a result the people of the country lost Rs 12 lakh crore,” he said.

Arun Jaitley details the progress made in GST

Arun Jaitley says it is incumbent upon us to make this federal institution work.

“Can there be situations where 32 legislatures want to make changes?” he asks.

He says the classification of commodities will be done in the coming month. “Today all 5 laws with rules ready in front of Parliament now. Delegation of work between Centre-state done,” he said, explaining the progress of the tax reform.

Arun Jaitley explains the various tax slabs; are Coca-Cola and others listening?

Arun Jaitley explains the various tax slabs and the rationale behind the peak rate of 40 percent of more on certain goods. 

The first tax slab is 0 percent. The next is 5 percent and then 12-18 percent. The fourth slab is 28 percent. 

There are certain goods that are identified as sin goods and luxury items. The cess above 28 percent imposed on these will flow into compensation fund.

The peak rate has been keenly awaited by many companies such as Coca-Cola and Pepsi. Coca-Cola has actually urged the govenrment to reain the peak rate at 34 percent recently.

Arun Jaitley explains the various tax slabs; are Coca-Cola and others listening?

Arun Jaitley explains the various tax slabs and the rationale behind the peak rate of 40 percent of more on certain goods. 

The first tax slab is 0 percent. The next is 5 percent and then 12-18 percent. The fourth slab is 28 percent. 

There are certain goods that are identified as sin goods and luxury items. The cess above 28 percent imposed on these will flow into compensation fund.

The peak rate has been keenly awaited by many companies such as Coca-Cola and Pepsi. Coca-Cola has actually urged the govenrment to reain the peak rate at 34 percent recently.

Watch Arun Jaitley’s speech here

WATCH Arun Jaitley speaking on GST bill in Lok Sabha https://t.co/huTN2YFebe

— ANI (@ANI) March 29, 2017

Arun Jaitley says India will have one-tax movement

The finance minister says the entire country will have one tax movement. The Centre and states will split the tax income.

“We are going to have a different system from now on,” he says explainings the Union, State & Concurrent lists and the Centre’s jurisdiction.

Arun Jaitley starts debate on GST Bills

Fianance minister Arun Jaitley moves resolution to start the marathon debate.

The four bills to be debated today are the supplementary legislations that enables the rollout of the biggest tax reform.

The four bills are the Compensation Law, the Central-GST or C-GST, Integrated-GST or I-GST and Union Territory-GST or UT-GST. These were introduced on Monday.

The CGST Bill will enable levy and collection of tax on intra-state supply of goods and services or both by the central government.

The Integrated Goods and Services Tax Bill, 2017, provides for the levy and collection of tax on inter-state supply.

The Goods and Services Tax (Compensation to States) provides for compensation to the states for the loss of revenue arising on account of implementation of the GST.

The Union Territory Goods and Services Tax Bill, 2017, will enable levy and collection of tax on intra-state supply of goods and services or both by the union territories. 

With inputs IANS

All eyes on Congress strategy

As the Lok Sabha members gear up for the GST Bill debate, all are waiting with bated breath to see whether the supplementary legislations are going to be passed in the current session. 

The biggest tax reform has to be rolled out before September, otherwise both the central and state governments will not have the right to collect the taxes.

The government has set 1 July as the deadline. All eyes are on the amendments the Congress is going to move.

Lok Sabha adjourned till 2.40 pm

Substitution!

Deputy Speaker M Thambi Durai steps in for Speaker Sumitra Mahajan who appears to have had enough of the bedlam breaking out in the House.

Chaos erupts in otherwise calm Lok Sabha

The mention of the bounty put on Kerala chief minister P Vijayan’s head by an RSS leader results in all sorts of yelling and screaming in Parliament.

Illegal Bangladeshi immigrants

BJP MP Nishikant Dubey says, “While we’re talking about employment being deprived to citizens of other countries, we should look at the illegal immigrants from Bangladesh who steal our jobs, food and amenities. The citizens of Bangladesh are not citizens of India, therefore, the government must implement measures including at the block-level to ascertain who is a Bangladeshi and who is an Indian. Jai Hind. Jai Bharat”

Transnational terrorist organisations

BJD MP Jay Panda says, “We’ve suffered cross-border and homegrown terrorism, but we’ve been quite resilient against transnational terrorism. But these twin attacks including the train blast that were carried out by Islamic State, indicate a shift. Over the past few months, the government has made 68 arrests, most of whom are educated.”

He adds, “This is a new threat and the government must face it. It is a new chapter altogether and unless we discuss it in this house and unless the government focuses on the threat from Islamic State, we are looking at grave danger.”

RECAP: Rajya Sabha adjourned shortly after obituary notices

Soon after the House met for the day after a month-long recess, Chairman Mohammad Hamid Ansari read out obituary references to former members Puttapaga Radhkrishna, P Shiv Shankar, Syed Shabuddin, Rabi Ray and sitting member Haji Abdul Salam.

A two-minute silence was observed after which Ansari announced that the House would remain adjourned for the day.

– IANS

Plight of fishing community all over India

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor widens the scope of the discussion adding fishermen arrested by Pakistan and those detained by the British in Diego Garcia.

“Whether our country grows at 10 percent or not, we must translate this into the greater good of the bottom 10 percent, including our fishermen… We need training programmes to teach them different trades during the no-trawling season,” says Tharoor.

Cold-blooded, inhuman, cruel act

AIADMK MP Elumali Vellaigounder refers to numerous letters sent to the Centre by late TN chief minister J Jayalalithaa requesting the Centre to take action against Sri Lanka and retrieve Katchatheevu island for India.

Topic shifts to slain Tamil Nadu fishermen

AIADMK MP P Venugopal says, “After the killing of the fishermen, we expect the government to act very strongly. Shooting incidents have increased over the years. Pertinent to point out that during peace talks in Chennai, a consensus was reached that Indian fishermen would not be fired upon but this is being violated all the time.”

Rajnath Singh answers
​

Rajnath clarifies, “We have taken these incidents seriously. They are saddening and unfortunate incidents. And all steps will be taken by the Government of India to ensure that our citizens in the US are safe and secure. Since the external affairs minister is unwell at the moment, we will issue a full statement next week.”

It’s not just the US
​

AIADMK MP Thambi Durai says, “This isn’t just isolated in the US. It’s happening all over the world. See what happened in Australia!”

Hate campaigns stirred up during election campaigns lead to hate crimes

CPM MP Mohammad Salim says, “Hate campaigns stirred up during election campaigns lead to hate crimes. And after Trump was elected, he said let’s leave all this behind us. He may well want to, but when you open that box of hate, it remains open and such incidents continue to happen.”

He adds, “It was after FS S Jaishankar’s visit to the US that the travel advisory was put out and we were named alongside countries that are responsible for fomenting trouble. I ask Modi to take this issue to Trump. Not an eye for an eye. But while this engagement with the US is growing and we’re doing so many deals with them, should we not threaten some sort of action, so that both countries can speak eye-to-eye? We’re not begging for anything.”

This is an old issue, not post-Trump

SAD MP Prem Singh Chandumajra says, “During Manmohan Singh’s term, there was in issue in France where turbans were banned. The government then said we can’t sacrifice the friendship between our two countries for the sake of turbans.”

“What is the Government of India doing to prevent such incidents again?”

‘I want to know what we are discussing with the US’

TRS MP AP Jithender Reddy says, “The American government has only condemned the crimes against Indians. It has done nothing to get justice or protect Indians… I request Government of India to provide all possible assistance to our fellow Indians living in other countries.”

Reddy alludes to President Donald Trump’s slogan of ‘America for Americans’ as a source of concern, and says, “When Srinivas’ body was brought back to India, all of Telangana mourned. I want to know what we are discussing with the US. The external minister must clarify. A proper statement has to be given.”

Travel advisory needed for Indians

BJD MP Bhartruhari Mahtab notes that the US recently put out a travel advisory for American travellers coming to South Asia. “Is the Government of India going to put out an advisory for NRIs stating which US states should be avoided?”

NRI grooms no longer being sought after

BJD MP Bhartruhari Mahtab points out that NRI grooms are no longer sought after because of how Indians are treated overseas. “Prejudice is there because of colour of skin,” says Mahtab, “How can a human being have hatred for another because of the colour of his skin?”

Cue random remarks from other MPs about dowry and how there are plenty of people with darker skin than Indians in the US.

What’s happening? 

MP Saugata Roy questions why the Government of India isn’t securing the interest of Indians in the US.

Mallikarjun Kharge demands a response from the prime minister

Such incidents (on attacks on Indians in USA) have increased after the new US President has taken charge: Mallikarjun Kharge,Cong in LS pic.twitter.com/dwskQBa1AG

— ANI (@ANI) March 9, 2017

No strategy for Indians’ safety

Mallikarjun Kharge says, “The Central government has no strategy to secure its citizens or assure their safety abroad. Ever since Donald Trump came to power, such incidents have been increasing. We are told that the US is the most transparent and democratic on one hand, and that it’s the most powerful country on the other hand. And in such a country — where so many of our citizens are students and employees, if our youths are being killed, why is the Narendra Modi government sitting quietly?”

“Modi tweets about everything. Why is he so quiet about this? When visiting leaders come, he’s hugging them. When someone from China comes, he sits with him on a swing. And now, why is he sitting silently?” rages Kharge.

Rajnath Singh elaborates on the anti-terror operation
 

“Six people in total have been arrested in connection with this incident. This is a great example of inter-agency cooperation between the police forces of two states. The NIA will investigate the entire matter. I feel it’s important to state that when the Uttar Pradesh Police went to hand Saifullah’s body to his father, the father’s statement — in which he disowned his son — struck me. I would like to extend to him the respect of the Parliament. People like Sartaj (Saifullah) are those that make the government and the country proud.”

Rajnath Singh on UP anti-terror operation

“Saifullah was identified and the ATS surrounded him and attempted to arrest him, unfortunately, he refused to surrender and opened fire. After 12 hours of firing, the ATS made its way into his safehouse and killed him. Eight pistols, several cartridges, three mobile phones and a few walky-talkies were found in his possession,” says Rajnath.

Sumitra Mahajan pays tribute to Isro for its achievements

What is the national mineral policy?

A seemingly-incensed Congress MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury demands to know what the government’s mineral policy is, how mineral blocks are allocated for exploration and what the incentives are. 

MoS (Independent Charge) Piyush Goyal replies that according to the new rules, exploration will happen in a contractual form. Tenders will be floated, bids will be welcomed and exploration data will be put in the public domain, he says, adding that all the money will go to the government of that state. Accordingly, a National Mineral Exploration Trust has been set up to ensure this happens, says Goyal.

Sumitra Mahajan cracks the whip

“Kaun kitna kaam karta hai mujhe bhi maloom hai (I know who does how much work). I know it. Please chale jaiye (go away),” she tells a protesting MP.

Not enough flyovers, not enough trees

Congress MP from Karnataka KH Muniyappa laments the absence of flyovers on and dearth of trees along India’s national highways.

MP Raju Shetti laments the state of India’s national highways

The Pune-Bengaluru national highway contains some of the best and worst facilities, he says as Ministry of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari looks on. “If the entire country is going cashless, why not toll booth operators?” asks Shetti, adding that, “Until you make tolls cashless, the toll booth operators will continue to do jumla and pilfer the cash”.

Gadkari takes cognisance of Shetti’s complaints and acknowledges that there are problems. “There are some people who want us (Centre) to manage the highways and some who want the private parties to do so,” he says, eliciting jeers. “Four days ago, I decided that on all our 980 toll booths, there will be a fast track for cashless payment of toll,” adds Gadkari, alluding to the possible implementation of RFID tags.

Build toilets to put an end to 80 percent uncleanliness, urges Mulayam Singh Yadav

If toilets haven’t been built, it’s going to be problematic, says Mulayam, without asking a question, much to Speaker Sumitra Mahajan’s bemusement.

Anganwadi scheme in Maharashtra suffering?

Congress MP from Nanded Ashok Chavan raises a question about how despite malnutrition affecting so many children across the country, the Centre’s anganwadi programme in Maharashtra has yet to begin. 

MoS Ram Kripal Yadav replies that it’s the state goverment’s responsibility to disburse funds towards building these anganwadis.

Lok Sabha Opposition wants justice for fishermen

Opposition members chant slogans in the Lower House demanding justice for the TN fishermen allegedly killed by the Sri Lankan Navy.

Speaker Sumitra Mahajan assures protestors that all concerns will be heard after the completion of Question Hour.

Over to the Lok Sabha now

Incidents regarding Indians in USA taken very seriously, statement on behalf of GoI to be given in the Parl next week: Rajnath Singh in LS

— ANI (@ANI) March 9, 2017

Rajya Sabha adjourned till 11 am on Friday

What to expect from this session of Parliament?

1. Finance bill to be introduced

2. Legislation on GST Bill

3. Announcement on 7th Pay Commission

Opposition already aims to push for adjournment

According to Congress sources quoted by Times Now, the Opposition is set to push for adjournment following obituary messages. Will this come to fruition? We’ll find out very soon.

Budget Session Second Leg to begin shortly

WATCH: Hope to see breakthrough on GST, all parties & states have shown a positive approach says PM Modi ahead of #BudgetSession 2nd leg pic.twitter.com/6kVj8tTZ3c

— ANI (@ANI) March 9, 2017

Rajya Sabha adjourned till 2 pm

Rajya Sabha session resumes

Both Houses adjourned as Opposition demands apology from PM

The proceedings in both the Houses descended into chaos as an outraged Opposition demanded an apology from the prime minister.

(Updates begin for 9 February)

Unfortunate that PM used such language: Kharge

Unfortunate that PM Modi used such language against former PM,condemn such statement: Mallikarjun Kharge on PM's statement on Manmohan Singh pic.twitter.com/OPrXKo41Qo

— ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2017

Let us see because this has been done in Rajya Sabha,I'll consult others: Mallikarjun Kharge on seeking apology from PM Modi pic.twitter.com/Lwr80oECzr

— ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2017

What has happened in house today is very distressing: Hon’bl Chairman Hamid Ansari

Referring to the commotion caused after the Prime Minister’s speech, Rajya Sabha speaker PJ Qurien said that what happened in House today is very distressing for him, He said that he wil neither blame the Treasury bench nor the Opposition benches for the incident but it was very distressing.

“I believe the precedent is that when someone wants to interrupt in a speech the speaker concedes. In this case the speaker did not concede and that will be it. I cannot allow a fresh debate on it,” Ansari said.

I was shocked to see that people made fun of Swacch Bharat mision as well: Modi in RS

“I was shocked to see that people made fun of Swacch Bharat mission alo, which only talks of cleanliness. If Mahatma Gandhi was alive today would they have spoken of the mission in the same way,” Modi

Attack me if you want but essential to preserve sanctity of RBI: Modi 

“It is natural for the Opposition to attack me and my government but it is important for us to maintain the sanctity of institutions like RBI,” Modi said while recounting the steps taken by his government to improve the transparency and autonomy of such institutions.

Attack me if you want but essential to preserve sanctity of RBI: Modi 

“It is natural for the Opposition to attack me and my government but it is important for us to maintain the sanctity of institutions like RBI,” Modi said while recounting the steps taken by his government to improve the transparency and autonomy of such institutions.   

We have started the Bank Board Bureau that has no member of the Central government on its panel. We have really worked to improve the autonomy of RBI," Modi said.

Watch Prime Minister Narendra Modi give his Motion of Thanks in Rajya Sabha, his below the belt jibe at former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his statement on demonetisation

Cashless, Premiseless transation is the future of banking: Modi in Rajya Sabha

**"**Cashless and premiseless banking is the direction in which the world is headed, and there is no reason for India to lag behind. We have infrastructural restraints I accept, and we may take a year or two longer to achieve our goals due to that, but to say that a step in that direction is wrong is inappropriate I believe," Modi told the Rajya Sabha.

I expected Sitaram Yechury to support us on note ban, but I was wrong: Modi

“I know that we follow different ideologies, but I was confident that Sitaram ji will support us on the issue of demonetisation because a leader from your party Jyoti Basu was in favour of acting against the corrupt,” Modi said.

Referring to CPM chief Yechury, Modi said “this is a cause, differing from which is not in your nature.”

Prime Minister resumes speaking in RS; Congress stages walk out

PM Modi resumed his speech in Rajya Sabha after the Chair restored order in the House. He said that their have been precedents of usage of words like ‘loot’ etc in the House. If Congress starts the blame game, it must have the courage to face the response.  

However, Congress MPs staged a walk out. Congress leader Kapil Sibbal said, “look at his arrogance, he choses to speak when everybody else is done and then he makes unsubstantiated allegations.”

Commotion in Rajya Sabha after PM Modi’s remark on Manmohan Singh

Uproar in Rajya Sabha over PM's remark on Manmohan Singh pic.twitter.com/oqaJeIud6d

— ANI (@ANI) February 8, 2017

Modi lauds his government’s demonetisation drive

“There has never been such a huge step against corruption anywhere in the world till now,” says Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Parliament.

Demonetisation helped nab Maoists?

In 40 days of November and December (after demonetisation), over 700 Maoists have surrendered. How can anybody not count this as a success?

Modi blames Indira Gandhi for failing to act against demonetisation

“Indira Gandhi was told about demonetisation. She even agreed about its merits. But she wanted to fight elections. This has been documented in former bureaucrat Madhav Godbole’s book,” said Prime Minister in Rajya Sabha, resulting in widespread disruptions by Congress MPs.

“If you had a problem, you should have raised an issue against Godbole’s book. But back then you had kept quiet,” Modi added.

‘My efforts will empower the honest citizens of India’

The honest people will never become strong until the corrupt have been taught a lesson, says Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Rajya Sabha.

‘Cannot deny existence of black money and corruption anymore’

“We cannot deny that the issues of black money and corruption have spread their tentacles in our society. I won’t claim there have never been attempts to rid society of these evils. But how long will we continue pushing them under the carpet?” asks Narendra Modi in Parliament.

Modi’s motion of thanks in Parliament

Prime Minister Modi speaks in the Rajya Sabha, to address issues of black money and corruption.

Lok Sabha adjourned till 3 pm

Motion of thanks on the President’s address adopted in Lok Sabha

Modi says he was shocked with the kind of remarks made after surgical strikes

“In the first 24 hours after surgical strikes, I was shocked at the kind of language being used by some politicians,” Modi said.

“This was a big decision. But no one asks me what the secret behind the surgical strikes was,” said Modi, praising the Indian Army for the surgical strikes.

“Surgical strikes are worrying you. You have to accept that our army is fully capable of protecting our country,” he said.

Modi talks about welfare for farmers

“There was a Fasal Beema Yojana earlier. But the farmer was eager to utilise this scheme,” the prime minister said. “It is our duty to make our farmers benefit from this scheme.”

“Through Mudra Yojana, many people have either got employment or got the power to give employment to someone else,” Modi said.

Why was it that there were crop insurance schemes earlier but farmers were not keen to avail of the benefits: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 7, 2017

Modi talks about the cost of constant polls

“Today, over 1 crore government officials are always involved in polls. Future generations are suffering because of involvement of people from education sector in constant polls,” Modi said.

“Our security forces need to focus on external threats. But security forces are mostly engaged in security for polls. We need to find a solution for this,” said the prime minister.

“We should take forward what the President said in his address,” he said.

Modi lists achievements of NDA govt

“Earlier, there were those exploited the poor with fake ration cards,” said Modi. “Since we began using technology, around 3.95 crore fake ration cards were caught. Because of that, Rs 14,000 crore was directed for the benefit of the poor,” said the prime minister.

“I want to give an example of work culture. Every year, chief ministers wrote to the state about the need for urea for farmers. In the last two years, no chief minister has had to write to the Centre for urea requirement,” Modi said.

“Urea was misused to make synthetic milk,” Modi said, adding that it was because of the NDA government that neem-coating of urea was done.

“I knew the consequences of me fighting against such kind of corruption. I knew about the kind of injustices I would face,” said Modi in the Lok Sabha, referring to the demonetisation decision.

Ye sarkaar bhrashtachaar ke khilaf ladai ladne wali sarkar hai, 17 mantralayon ki 84 yojnayein humne direct benefit transfer se jodaa :PM

— ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2017

“We do not say we brought about LED bulbs,” said Modi, as he talked about the government’s achievements. “In such a short time, we were able to install 21 crore LED bulbs. And because of that, families saved Rs 11,000 crore because of a reduced power bill,” he said.

आज बदलाव अचानक नहीं आए हैं, योजनाबद्ध तरीके से लाए जा रहे हैं और इस दिशा में भागीरथ प्रयास किये जा रहे हैं: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 7, 2017

“We have used drones in railways. A lot of difference can be made through technology,” said the prime minister in Lok Sabha.

“10,83,000 houses were made under your government. In one year, 22,27,000 houses were made under our government,” Modi said.

Difference between governments is between work culture: Modi

“Government runs of rules. The difference is between work culture,” said Modi.

“If I say anything about National Optical Fibre Network, they (Congress) say they started it. From 2011 to 2014, this network was there only in 59 villages. We decentralised the procurement, with the result that in such a short time, optical fibre network is there in 76,000 villages,” he said in the House.

“You (Congress) have been saying at all rallies that Rajiv Gandhi brought about computerisation and mobile phones. Now, when I am telling people to use mobile phones for banking, you are saying that people do not have mobile phones,” the prime minister said.

“Even if 40 percent of people have mobile phones, can’t they use it for banking?” he said.

नोटबंदी के दौरान एक तरफ देश को लूटने वाले लोग थे और दूसरी तरफ ईमानदारी का प्रयास किया जा रहा था: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 7, 2017

MNREGA was changed 1,035 times: Modi in Lok Sabha

“We also brought about the Income Tax Declaration scheme. We ended over 1,100 obsolete laws,” Narendra Modi said in Lok Sabha.

“You have no right to take pride in one of your programmes because since the time of kings, programmes for welfare of poor have been there. Just the names for the programmes have changed,” he said.

“Despite MNREGA being there for a long time, there have been 1,035 changes in it,” Modi said. “What was the reason that you had to make 1,035 changes since you brought about MNREGA?” said the prime minister.

Like Swachh Bharat, the decision on demonetisation is a movement to clean India (from corruption and black money): PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 7, 2017

Everything on record after demonetisation: Modi in Lok Sabha

“After demonetisation, everything is on record,” said Modi in Lok Sabha. “Now, the income tax officer does not need to go anywhere,” he added.

“Kharge ji was right. There is a lot (of black money) in benami properties. We will also do something regarding that,” Modi said.

“The Supreme Court had said on 26 March, 2014 that since 1947, for 65 years, nobody thought of bringing the money in foreign banks to the country,” said the prime minister.

This was the perfect time for demonetisation: Modi in Lok Sabha

“You know that if there is a disease, and a doctor recommends operation, he talks about keeping the body healthy first,” said the prime minister in Lok Sabha.

“For demonetisation, this was the perfect time because the economy was healthy,” said Modi.

We do not see everything through the prism of elections;The interests of the nation are supreme for us: PM Modi in LS pic.twitter.com/1ZQcoSRg85

— ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2017

आप कितने भी बड़े क्यों न हो, आपको गरीबों के हक का लौटना पड़ेगा। मैं गरीबों के लिए लड़ता रहा हूँ और आगे भी लड़ता रहूँगा: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 7, 2017

“We do not worry about elections, we worry about the country,” said Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Lok Sabha.

पहले होता था – कितना गया, अब होता है – मोदी जी कितना लाये...this is how discourse has changed after we have assumed office: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 7, 2017

Modi implies Congress encouraged corruption

“In 1988, when Rajiv Gandhi was the prime minister, you had a greater majority than what belonged to Pandit Nehru,” said Modi.

“In 1988, you made a law on benami properties. Why is it that it took you 24 years to notify that?” he said, asking Congress to identify the people responsible for trying to suppress the law.

“I want to tell the people of this House: No matter how big you are, you have to return the rights of the poor,” Modi said.

“From the first day, we have been saying that the government is ready for demonetisation,” Modi said in the Lok Sabha.

“Before May 2014, there used to be talk of how much was lost. Now, there is talk of how much was gained,” said the prime minister in the House.

When Rail budget was first presented, the transport sector was different. Now things are different & a more comprehensive look is needed: PM

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 7, 2017

Modi talks about why the Budget was preponed

“Most of our economic activity depends on the farmer,” Modi said, as he explained why Budget was preponed.

“Because rains for the crops come in June, we get a short time to implement the Budget,” said the prime minister.

“Even during your (Congress’) government rule, you wanted the time for the Budget to change. But you could not implement it,” he said.

“Today, transportation is a necessity. Until we comprehensively address transportation, we will face problems,” Modi said, as he explained why the railway budget was merged with the Union Budget.

“Shouldn’t we think about that despite taking Gandhi’s name with respect, there was no discussion on swachchta in the sadan,” Modi said in Lok Sabha.

“Will we also politicise swachchta?” Modi said. “Can’t we come forward to collectively tell the society to fulfil Gandhi’s dream?” he said.

There are many people like me, who couldn't die for nation during the freedom struggle but we are living for India & serving India: PM in LS pic.twitter.com/XTP25OhN4q

— ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2017

They think Independence was attained only due to one family: Modi in Lok Sabha

“An ordinary person like me had asked those who could afford it to let go of their gas subsidy,” Modi said. “Over 1.2 crore people of this country came forward to sacrifice their gas subsidy,” he added.

“We should recognise the power of the people,” he said. “No one wants harm for our nation. Everyone wants welfare for the poor,” he added.

“I have earlier also said that earlier governments also contributed to the fight against poverty,” Modi said.

“But they (Opposition members) have never talked Veer Savarkar or Bhagat Singh fighting for independence. They think freedom was attained only due to one family,” he said.

We remember how democracy was under threat from 1975 to 1977, when opposition leaders were jailed, newspaper freedom curtailed: PM

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 7, 2017

Kamal was always there: Modi in LS

“History cannot just be trapped in books. That does not inspire society. In every age, there should an effort to live the history,” said Modi in Lok Sabha.

“When Congress had not even been born, people were giving their lives for the nation,” the prime minister said.

“The kamal was there even then, and it is there even now,” he said.

When someone sees seva in scam, dharti maa becomes sad: Modi

“I was thinking about how the earthquake came. When somebody sees seva in scam, even dharti maa becomes sad, and an earthquake thus follows,” Modi said.

“Mallikarjun_ji_ was saying that it was because of Congress that democracy had prevailed and I had become prime minister,” Modi further said. “But the people are aware of the actual situation now,” he added.

Complete chaos in Lok Sabha in the middle of prime minister’s speech

Opposition members are shouting as loudly as they can now.

PM Narendra Modi speaking on motion of thanks to President's address, in Lok Sabha pic.twitter.com/y2xNxfBnU4

— ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2017

Yesterday, an ’earthquake’ finally came: Modi in LS

“I thank the President for his address,” said Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Lok Sabha.

“A lot of issues were raised in the debate on the motion of thanks and I am grateful to members of the House for raising these issue,” he said.

“Yesterday, there was an earthquake,” Modi said, after which some MPs laughed as they probably saw a pun on the word ’earthquake'.

“Finally the earthquake is here,” he said. “I was thinking about how this earthquake came. There must be reason that dharti maa is so angry with us,” he added.

The Opposition MPs didn’t seem to like that joke as they began shouting.

Modi in LS to reply to debate on motion of thanks to President’s address at 12 pm: ANI

Jaya Bachchan in RS raises the issue of attack on Sanjay Leela Bhansali

“Recently, there has been growing intolerance in the country,” Jaya Bachchan said in Rajya Sabha. “The film fraternity has been a soft target of anti-social elements,” said Bachchan, referring to the attack on Sanjay Leela Bhansali in Jaipur.

“Post the incident, neither the state government nor the Centre condemned the incident. What message are we sending to the film fraternity? Creativity should not be subjected to this treatment,” Bachchan said.

Issue of political killings in Kerala raised in RS

Both CPI(M) and BJP MPs raised the issue of political killings in Kerala, which led to uproar from both the government and Opposition MPs.

Defence minister shouldn’t make statement about nuclear doctrine outside India: Congress in RS

“Defence Minister should not have made a policy statement about India’s nuclear doctrine outside the country,” said Congress MP Anand Sharma in Rajya Sabha.

(Updates begin for 7 February)

Protests inside Parliament House complex

Delhi: TMC MPs protesting in front of Mahatma Gandhi statue inside Parliament House complex for electoral reform& state-funding of elections pic.twitter.com/mJDPh9SS3e

— ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2017

Delhi: Kerala MPs stage a protest in front of Gandhi statue inside Parliament House complex, demanding sufficient food allocation to Kerala. pic.twitter.com/hGWauvSgYM

— ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2017

Kharge slams government for claiming sole credit for surgical strikes

#Surgicalstrikes ka credit lene ki zaroorat nahi hai; Sirf aap (PM) nahi, pura desh Army ke saath hai: Cong's Mallikarjun Kharge in LS

— ANI (@ANI) February 6, 2017

Controversial statement by Kharge

​

Treasury benches demand that Kharge's,"Apke ghar se ek kutta bhi nahi gaya" comment b expunged;LS speaker says such comments must be avoided

— ANI (@ANI) February 6, 2017

Commotion in Lok Sabha over Kharge’s comments

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge added that the government must not take the public for granted just because the people of India have always been patient. However, the Lok Sabha speaker has asked him to cut short his speech for already exceeding the time-limit.

Union minister Ananth Kumar slams Kharge

Ananth Kumar slams Mallikarjun Kharge for misleading the house. Kumar said that Kharge spoke without providing adequate proofs so his statements must be expunged from the minutes of the house.

Kharge on note ban deaths

125 people died; PM Modi should've at least apologised: Cong's Mallikarjun Kharge in LS on #demonetisation

— ANI (@ANI) February 6, 2017

Mallikarjun Kharge attacks BJP over note ban

Congress party criticises Modi government on demonetisation. Kharge says that the government did not even take cabinet in confidence before implementing note ban. He also took potshots on Modi government’s slogan of “sabka saath sabka vikaas”.

The prime minister should have apologised to people of this country for all the hardship and deaths resulting from demonetisation: Congress’ Mallikarjun Kharge in LS

Treasury benches demand that Kharge's,"Apke ghar se ek kutta bhi nahi gaya" comment b expunged;LS speaker says such comments must be avoided

— ANI (@ANI) February 6, 2017

In the name of sanatan dharm you want people to be divided. You take god’s name to emotionally blackmail people. For the unity of this country, Ghandi ji and Indira ji sacrificed themselves. Who did you lose? Not even a dog: Congress’ Mallikarjun Kharge in LS

Rural development minister will go to Jaitley asking for funds. Your government has failed in NREGA, as well as in railways: Congress’ Mallikarjun Kharge in LS

12 train derailments occurred in the last year, 70 percent more than your own previous year. The plan for railways is a failure: Congress’ Mallikarjun Kharge citing government’s plans of bullet train.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi attends Lok Sabha proceedings #BudgetSession pic.twitter.com/73nPsvxaX6

— ANI (@ANI) February 6, 2017

Rajya Sabha adjourned till 2 pm

Alleged atrocities by security forces in Chhattisgarh raised in Rajya Sabha

Rajya Sabha witnessed heated exchanges between the Opposition and Treasury benches after a Congress member demanded dismissal of the Chhattisgarh government over alleged atrocities against tribals and locals, including rape and molestation, committed by security forces.

I&B Minister M Venkaiah Naidu countered the charges saying Zero Hour cannot be allowed to be used to make sweeping statements and defaming forces who are doing a difficult job by staking their lives.

He said Chhattisgarh is one of the best performing states and a forward looking one.

Raising the issue of alleged atrocities by security forces in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh, BK Hariprasad (Congress) said tribal women are gangraped and molested but no action is taken against the policemen involved.

Cases have been filed against lawyers, NGOs and journalists who were trying to focus on the plight of the victims but the state government is yet to file a case against the police officers and men who were at the centre of the allegations, he alleged.

He demanded that the state government be dismissed.

This drew a sharp reaction from the Naidu, who said “Zero Hour cannot used be for condemning the forces.”

Police, he said, is undergoing untold miseries and doing a “difficult job” by “staking their lives”. — PTI

Ambedkar belongs to the nation: Govt in LS

“Ambedkar_ji_ belongs to the nation,” Mahesh Sharma said, adding that the government began work on building the panchtirtha for BR Ambedkar.

“The prime minister told us to declassify files related to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. We did that,” he said.

Govt helped farmers: Mahesh Sharma in LS

“Government has brought about ease of doing business in India,” Mahesh Sharma further said in his dramatic and angry speech in the Lok Sabha.

“Because of government’s policies, our reputation has also gone up in the world,” he said. “The benefits of the government’s policies is not just limited to industrialists and businesspersons. It has also reached the farmers,” he added.

“Even if 33 percent of the crops of a farmer are lost, the government has provided compensation,” Mahesh Sharma said.

‘Abhi toh jeb phati hai, abhi kurta bhi phatne wala hai’

“The Opposition was waiting eagerly for the people to oppose demonetisation. But nothing happened,” said Union minister Mahesh Sharma in Lok Sabha.

“Kale dhan ki is ladai mein abhi toh jeb phati hai, abhi kurta bhi phatne wala hai,” said the minister.

Union minister Mahesh Sharma hits out at Congress; praises demonetisation, surgical strikes

In a dramatic speech against Congress, Mahesh Sharma said that it was the Congress government earlier which encouraged corruption.

He also praised the NDA government for demonetisation and surgical strikes.

“For the first time after independence, Opposition stood with those having black money,” he said. “The black money recovered will be used for the nation,” he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is present in the House.

Some leaders playing politics over caste, religion: Govt

The Modi government in Lok Sabha said that there are some politicians who are playing politics over caste and religion. The government also said that the people are aware of such tactics now.

Congress raises issue of Trump’s order on H-1B visas

“Because of the bills tabled in the US Congress, many Indians in the US have been affected,” said Congress MP Anand Sharma in the Rajya Sabha.

‘We are Ahamed Sahib’ placards seen during the Congress protest

Rahul Gandhi joins protest over issue of #EAhamed's death by MPs from Kerala inside Parliament complex pic.twitter.com/XE4q8inLe1

— ANI (@ANI) February 6, 2017

Rahul Gandhi joins protest over issue of #EAhamed's death by MPs from Kerala inside Parliament complex pic.twitter.com/DqwncAJRp8

— ANI (@ANI) February 6, 2017

TMC in RS raises the issue of Najeeb Ahmed’s disappearance

“Will we just let Najeeb be a lost statistic?” said TMC MP Vivek Gupta in Rajya Sabha. “This is a clear case of political vendetta. Political vendetta is spreading like cancer in the country,” he added.

“The Vice-Chancellor of JNU even refused to meet Najeeb’s mother,” he said.

Congress demands formation of parliamentary panel over E Ahamed’s death

Parliamentary committee should be constituted & those found guilty after inquiry should be punished: Mallikarjun Kharge on #EAhamed's death pic.twitter.com/YQKwoESOj3

— ANI (@ANI) February 6, 2017