The Rajya Sabha passes The National Capital Territory of Delhi Laws (Special Provisions) Second (Amendment) Bill, 2021.
Members of the Lok Sabha will continue to participate in the motion of thanks to the President's address. The House will take up The Arbitration and Conciliation (Amendment) Bill, 2021.
Here are the live updates:
House adjourned till 4 p.m. on Wednesday February 10, 2020
Dr BV Satyavathi of YSRCP, Vizag talks about the coronavirus response and highlights the praise by the WHO to India. She raises two points, about the issue of mixopathy and disinvestment. About the former, she objects to the idea of mixopathy, saying that allopathy for years ha proven to be the most effective medical practice.
Karti Chidambaram of the Congress: "The fate of backbenchers is that we always get to speak at a depleted house."
He talks about the State of the Union address in USA. He compares it to the Indian President's speech. He says the Indian President's speech was mundane and missed several important points he missed out. He said nothing was addressed about the farm laws which are being protested. Chidambaram says India's response to the pandemic was poor. He says women are far more greatly by the unemployment crisis because of demonitisation and the pandemic. He says the govt. is more interested in reposnding to tweets by foreign celebrities.
Don't talk about digital freedom if you are shutting down the internet so frequently, he says.
Aparajitha Sarangi of the BJP in Odisha applauds PM Modi for "leading from the front in the battle against Covid-19". She highlights how the WHO chief and Brazil PM have applauded India for manufacturing and supplying vaccines.
Government questioning funding of years-old langar tradition: Bhagwant Mann
AAP MP Bhagwant Mann is speaking now.
He criticised the government for questioning the funding of langar, which has been a tradition for years. He further asked the government to repeal the farm laws.
BJP issues three-line whip to all its MPs for tomorrow, asking them to be present in the House throughout the day to support government's stand, ANI reports.
Fix MSP for rubber: Thomas Chazhikadan
Thomas Chazhikadan from Kerala asks the government to fix minimum support price for rubber.
He further questions the arrest of Stan Swamy.
BJP MP Nishikant Dubey refutes these claims saying Mr. Swamy provided arms to Maoists and was involved in religious conversion.
Lok Sabha session extended until midnight.
I am a proud 'aandolan-jeevi': Asaddudin Owaisi
Now AIMIM MP Asaddudin Owaisi is speaking.
He starts with China and how 20 soldiers were killed. Our patrolling point had to give up, settled a village in Arunachal Pradesh. Why can't the Prime Minister name China in his reply? What's his compulsion? Hope he will muster courage. I also want to say I am a proud aandolan-jeevi. The places where infrastructure had to be built was done in Tikri and Singhu, he says.
He says farm laws violate the federal structure. He raises why the government has not appealed against Supreme Court verdict against Babri masjid demolition. Is it because the government wants to send a message to its supporters. You are calling aandolan-jeevi and parasites. Hitler once described Jews as cockroach. Look at your foreign policy.
Brad Sherman talks about opening up internet and you open up internet in Kashmir.
"In the past one year, there have been three riots in Delhi. There will be agitations as Narendra Modi is not an emperor. Those days are over."
E.T. Mohammed Basheer of Indian Union Muslim League raises the issue of Siddique Kappan who was booked on fabricated charge.
Farm laws introduced to end farmer suicides, says BJP MP Meenakshi Lekhi
Meenakshi Lekhi of BJP dedicates her speech to Doctor Li Wenliang- the whistle blower of corona in China.
The world is discussing the farmers in India and a year back, farmers were committing suicides and these laws were brought in to end these suicides.
She is talking about an international conspiracy to weaken India.
She says instead of talking about one country had damaged the world and what kind of penalties, I would like to tell the Oxford dictionary just as they had chosen Atma Nirbhar for 2020-21, they should choose 'Pappu' as the word for 2021-22. Because they think the world is a 'Pappu'. This is a hybrid war.
She mentions about Greta Thunberg and says a child couldn't be doing this but other powers were behind. A Molotov cocktail is going on... Khalistanis, ISI going on with their master sitting in Beijing.
Assure MSP and start a dialogue with farmers: Hanuman Beniwal
Rashtriya Loktantrik Party's Hanuman Beniwal says they (BJP) will realise about the agitation when you get to seek votes. These farmers are not going to get tired.
"I came to NDA when PM talked about giving Swaminathan Commission report and honouring our defence forces. Even BJP MPs tell me that if the bill is taken back, we will get some relief. First time, the Delhi Jaipur was jammed by 1 lakh farmers. If you are willing to put it on hold, why don't you withdraw them. PM can make an announcement here. You want to defame the kisan andolan by diverting it to the Red Fort incident. My demand is to assure MSP and start a dialogue with kisans.
No point of staying in a government when it becomes inhuman : Harsimrat Kaur Badal
Harsimrat Kaur Badal of Shiromani Akali Dal is speaking now.
She quotes Guru Nanak Dev and how he himself did farming.
Farmers are braving this cold and waiting at Delhi border but the government's eyes and ears are shut. On Constitution Day, lathis and tear gas rained on unarmed farmers.
"Harsimrat is putting a poster with photos of farmers and says not a word about them. Yes I was in government for 6 years but when it becomes inhuman, what's the point of staying in such a government. Even when this ordinance was brought in, I told the cabinet to consult more people. I was told that they will do that when the ordinance becomes law. They gave us the law and told us to take it to farmers. When we did that, we understood the apprehension of farmers. We gave a letter to the Agriculture Minister."
She quotes the report of the working committee on agriculture that Narendra Modi headed as Gujarat Chief Minister and how it pitched for MSP as a guarantee.
"The ministers first called it as an agitation of middlemen, then Maoist, then terrorists or Khalistanis. She questions the intelligence failure on January 26. Why is none asking. When you can do lockdown in four hours, why couldn't stop it when on January 25, it was declared that the route will not be followed. You are objecting to the Kesri flag or nishan saheb being hoisted. Our 9th Guru sacrificed his life to protect your honour. It [Red Fort] is a site of oppression for us. "
Animated exchange between Meenakshi Lekhi (BJP) and Ms. Badal.
Opposition aiding international interference in internal matters
Danish Ali of Bahujan Samaj Party points out about how farmers are braving the cold and waiting to get their demands met.
"Several international voices have come. Our party's stand is clear that we don't welcome international interference in our internal affair. But who gave them this opportunity?"
"When our PM goes to U.S. and talks about Ab Ki Baar Trump Sarkar, what do you say?"
He speaks about how BJP keeps raising Chaudhary Charan Singh but almost got his grandson Jayant Chaudhary finished by raining lathis when he went to Hathras. He talks about how those who raises questions are now put in jail.
Nishikant Dubey of BJP starts his speech.
He challenges a claim made by Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury about the Hindu Mahasabha.
"Adhir ji said BJP workers were involved in January 26 violence. If it is proven, I will resign as an MP. Congress has a history of distortion. Adhir ji should apologize for distorting facts."
Now Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury is clarifying what he said yesterday.
Now, YSRCP MP Sri Krishna Devarayalu Lavu lauds the efforts of the Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy in governance.
He is alleging TDP of playing divisive politics. TDP MP Jayadeva Galla protests and stands up.
TDP opposes against proposed disinvestment of Vishakapatnam Steel Plant
TDP MP Srinivas Keshineni praises the government on COVID management and vaccine.
He also opposes the proposed disinvestment of Vishakapatnam Steel Plant. He recalls the history of protests to set up the plant.
YSR MP objects to the TDP MP questioning the sincerity of the CM's letter.
Bhartuhari Mahtab on the Chair said the Chair will examine.
I heard PM cried in the other house. Why can't he shed some tears for farmers, asks Trinamool MP Saugata Roy
Trinamool Congress's Saugata Roy speaking now. He praises Farooq Abdullah and Akhilesh Yadav's speech.
He also applauds Harsimrat Kaur Badal for leaving the ministry over farm bills.
"Its not that I have any personal issue with Narendra Modi or Amit Shah. This is an issue of principles. Their agenda is divisive. Mr. Modi is trying to speak Bangla or growing a beard. It would be good if they do some research and speak correctly"
"Farmers have been on an agitation. Why can't the PM withdraw the bill and not stand on ego? I heard PM cried in the other house. Why can't he shed some tears for farmers?"
He said 200 people have lost their lives during the agitation and PM talks about Andolanjeevi. He talks about how flagship schemes are being repeated.
"Ministers are having political tourism in Bengal. If more BJP move around in Bengal, people will remember 2002 riots. The BJP is the same. This divisive politics is not good and should end."
"No matter how many times you go, Mamata Banerjee with her Hawaii chappal will reach Nabanna (State secretariat)."
India has become pharmacy of the world during pandemic, says Rita Bahuguna Joshi
Rita Bahuguna Joshi of BJP speaks.
PM is focused and won't dither, Ms. Joshi. Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said dissent is the essence of democracy. I do agree. But what kind of tradition is this to boycott the President's speech. You are stuck in the Opposition mindset.
She praises Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his far sightedness in fighting COVID-19. The whole world is saying that India has become a pharmacy of the world. You have right to criticize the government but don't have a right to mislead. She is praising the health initiatives of the Modi government and how it has positively impacted maternal mortality rate.
"Open agriculture market is good for farmers. Why do you want to keep them bound? Political parties are running the agitation."
She further speaks about flagship schemes like Ujwala for women and how the government doesn't discriminate on the basis of religion or caste.
Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury says our staffers are also putting in extra hours with us, they are not getting food or transport to go home late at night.
Rama Devi responds that this will be taken care of.
40% small scale industries closed down under lockdown, need immediate financial support: DMK MP
Jagatrakshagan of DMK says that he is disappointed by President’s address as it didn’t reflect the sentiments of the people.
"The only sector that did well during COVID-19 lockdown was agriculture."
He gives figures on farmers suicides. He draws attention to the crisis facing the Medium and Small Enterprises. 40% small scale industries closed down under lockdown, they need immediate financial support. This government has failed its promises from the previous budget.
"I urge government of India to release all convicts who have served more than 20 years in the Rajiv Gandhi Assasination case"
Adhir Ranjan Chowdhary asks for parliamentary affairs minister.
Presiding officer Rama Devi says she will call the minister.
Saddened that farmers are being called terrorists: Congress MP
Praneet Kaur (Congress) expresses sadness over the treatment of farmers who ushered in the Green Revolution in the country.
"It saddens me that farmers are being referred to as terrorist. Why is the government scared? Why have they put concertina wires, cement barricades on Delhi’s borders? Young, old, children, women are sitting in protest for their rights. What is the message being sent to our children at the borders? Is our country safe? When across the world our farmers got support, its being labelled as foreign interference. The call of the times is that government should leave its arrogance and concede the legitimate demands of our farmers."
Modi government has set up seven new medical colleges in Assam: Dilip Saikia of BJP
Dilip Saikia (BJP) starts his speech.
He commends government’s handling of COVID-19.
Why should we take Nehru’s name who had written off the North East to the Chinese?, he asks.
Under Modi government seven new medical colleges in Assam. He further elaborates on other developmental work by BJP government in the state including the Bogibeel bridge.
"Sri Shankardev had also spoken 550 years ago that everyone’s soul is Ram."
"Under Congress rule one horned rhino was poached. Our government has put a stop to it."
He further commends BJP government for ₹1000 crore for the welfare of tea garden workers.
BJP's Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti objects to use of words “chanda-jeevi”.
People giving donations out of faith not under coercion. Not just in India but across the world, she says.
Famers have never been this humiliated in India's history, says Akhilesh Yadav
Akhilesh Yadav (SP) says before me Dr. Farooq Abdullah spoke in an impassioned way. This is the identity of our country - Ganga-Jamuna tehzeeb. Those willing to break this do this for political advantage.
“Jab tak pichla kartab log samajh, ek tamasha aur khada kar deta hoon. " "Those sitting in treasury have understood these poetic lines. Yesterday we heard that MSP was, is and will remain but that is not the truth just a speech. The state where I come from made it possible for these people to form the government."
"The district where President hails from or where PM is elected from - have farmers there got MSP? The neighbouring district to honourable President’s district is where I’m from and the farmers there haven’t got MSP. In the history of India its farmers haven’t been so humiliated"
Ravi Shankar Prasad (minister for telecommunications ) interjects asks whether such references to President can be allowed? Rajendra Agarwal in the presiding officer’s chair says he will look into it.
Mr. Yadav continues, if farmers are not accepting these laws then why can’t it be taken back?
'Who is stopping the government from retracing this laws? Doesn’t this prove that it is for ushering in corporate interests into the agricultural sector? Agitating and movements have secured all manner of rights for the people- from freedom, to women’s rights. What should I call those who collect money for certain things- aren’t you chanda (donation) jeevis? They talk of crime - there is a “thoko neeti” (bumping criminals off) going on in Uttar Pradesh"
China gave world the virus, India gave the vaccine: BJP MP
Sunita Duggal of BJP says that nobody had thought earlier of whether or not our daughters who go to school have access to toilets- Modi government did and built 10 crore toilets.
She goes on to talk about Jan Dhan, Ujjwala and Self Help Groups for women.
Ms. Duggal further commends government’s handling of COVID19.
China gave the world the virus, India gave the vaccine, she says.
She refers to Dr. Abdullah and asks “where was your sense of pain when our Kashmiri Pandit brothers and sisters were driven from their homes?
It is not the Indian tradition to keep criticising past PMs: Farooq Abdullah
Dr. Farooq Abdullah of National Conference says that it is a fortunate thing that India has fewer coronavirus cases than the rest of the world of, but even then our medical services are not adequate.
"I commend Poonawalla of Serum Institute for the vaccine. India must vaccinate people quickly. We have suffered a lot economically because of COVID19, especially in J&K which is hugely dependant on tourism"
'The roads and airports in J&K are also in a bad state. We were promised upgradations in airports to CAT2 systems to make landings easier. I request that these be expedited and soaring ticket prices be controlled. Baramullah- Banihal rail link is down for the last year. We need to restart this rail link expeditiously. I commend the telecom minister for restoration of 4G in J&K and hope it will not be taken away again."
"The DDC polls were conducted fairly but now collectors and other officials are pressuring people to elect other chairpersons. Please don’t go against the people’s mandate. As people may feel disappointed that money power has replaced their exercise of franchise."
"The three agricultural laws are not made by God. If there are such widespread protests we must rethink. I have been chief minister too, and there was drought in J&K and we took the concerned central minister on tour who promised us ₹1000 crores for relief and gave us only ₹16 crores . I used other funds to bail out farmers. "
"It is not the Indian tradition to keep criticising past PMs. I have seen both Sardar Patel and Gandhiji. I have seen Indira Gandhi’s time, when my government was dismissed. I saw my father’s imprisonment by Nehru but never saw him abuse Nehru. I’m a Muslim but an Indian Muslim and we must keep the country together. I say with folded hands that talk to the farmers. What do we lose by talking to them? You have laid nails on the roads to Delhi."
"What you did on August 5th. You could have consulted with us. When were we separate from the country? I’m the one who spoke at the UN for India, Human Rights Commission. You have to honour our sense of belonging.1500 people of our party people died for the tricolor. Today you call us Pakistani, Chinese? I will live and die here and answer only to God. You broke the crown of India (Jammu and Kashmir) just to show us Muslims our place? I’m 85 years old and I have seen this country grow from begging from the US, that rotten PL 480 wheat, and now we are feeding the world . We can only build the country together. Ram does not belong only to you but to the world, to us too. Like we Muslims clutch the Koran to us, you hold on to Ram. I request you to take everyone along. And heal the wounds of the state you have cleaved in two," says Mr. Abdullah.
Every village in Telangana has been given a tractor and tanker, says TRS MP
Namo Nageswara Rao (TRS) gives a detailed account of Telangana government’s farmer friendly policies including the Rayuthu Bandhu scheme.
A team should come to Telangana villages and see how these schemes have been implemented. Our leader KCR has followed Mahatma Gandhi’s precepts on improving village life. From income support to crematoriums, every village is covered. Every village has been given a tractor and tanker. This model should be followed across India. TRS government is giving free filtered drinking water to every village, even your Central government report says we have covered more than 94% villages in the state, says Mr. Rao.
He concludes speech supporting the Motion of Thanks.
Those on borders of Delhi are not farmers but Left leaders: Ramesh Bidhuri of BJP
Ramesh Bidhuri of BJP further says that those who are on the borders of Delhi are not farmers but Left leaders.
The villagers of those areas are not striking. Rakesh Tikait had earlier welcomed reforms. Just as Ravan first deceived and abducted Sitaji, so are our people being deceived otherwise how could this strike be done? Please look at your leader (Rahul Gandhi) does not respect the chair of PM and came and fell on Modi ji, he says.
Ramesh Bidhuri of BJP continues debate on Motion of Thanks to the President
Ramesh Bidhuri (BJP) continues debate on Motion of Thanks to the President.
The way PM Modi government handled COVID-19 is exemplary. It is through divine providence that we have got a Prime Minister like Narendra Modi, he says.
He furhter elaborates on Jan Dhan Yojana, Rashtriya Poshan Abhiyan, Khelo India among others.
"Because of our philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam or the world is one family Prime Minister Modi has sent the COVID-19 vaccine to the world. It was PM Modi’s government that implemented the Swaminathan committee report that was hanging fire throughout the UPA’s tenure. Now they (Congress) are shedding crocodile tears over farmers. The opposition has lost its political ground, and is now opposing Modi ji on everything. From 2014 we introduced many measures for farmers - the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Beema Yojana, Neem coated urea was introduced, soil health card were all introduced. Nobody has denied MSP to farmers "
Speaker Birla asks members to keep within time allotted and those who leave the House the moment their own speech is concluded.
Mr. Bidhuri responds: “I’m the kind who sits till midnight”.
He further gives a long list of crops whose MSP has been hiked under Modi government and reads out letter by Sharad Pawar to chief ministers when he was agriculture minister advocating agriculture reforms.
Amit Shah clarifies on Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury‘s claims on sitting over Tagore’s chair
Home Minister Amit Shah steps up for clarification on Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury ‘s speech and references made to Mr. Shah sitting on Rabindranath Tagore’s chair.
“It is not true and I want to clarify,” says Mr. Shah.
“I have the letter from the vice chancellor of Vishwa Bharati University that states that I did not sit on such chair, I sat in a window seat where people sit to write down their thoughts on visiting the monument. The same place was occupied by former presidents Pratibha Patil and Pranab Mukherjee and even late prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. Mr. Chowdhury should’ve know better than follow social media on this issue. There are photographs that show Jawahar Lal Nehru Ji occupying the chair and even late Rajiv Gandhi,” says Mr. Shah.
“Another clarification is to his references to BJP president J.P. Nadda , no such thing was said by Mr. Nadda. I want that the clarification that I have presented and the letter of the vice chancellor of Vishwa Bharati be tabled and taken on record.“I offer this under rule 357," adds the Home Minister.
Lok Sabha observes silence for Uttarakhand tragedy
Two minutes silence being observed to mourn those who died in the Rishi Ganga tragedy
Papers being laid at the table of the House. Disturbance as opposition leaders are protesting.
Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury raises minister V.K. Singh’s statement saying India too crossed LAC many times.
“It’s a serious issue and government must clarify,” says Mr. Chowdhury.
Home Minster's statement about the Uttarakhand disaster
Home Minister Amit Shah makes a statement about the Uttarakhand incident in the Lok Sabha.
"I’m here to table a statement on a very tragic incident. A few days ago, a tragedy occurred in Chamoli. From the time this event occurred PM Modi and MoS home Nityanand Rai have kept watch over it," says Amit Shah.
On 7th February , a sudden surge was seen in the water level of the Rishi Ganga. NTPC’s 500 MW power plant also got hit. State government says water has receded now and the immediate danger is over. 20 people have died as of yesterday 5pm. 20-35 people are said that be stuck inside the tunnel at the Rishi Ganga Hydel power plant and efforts are being made to rescue them. 13 villages nearby are also cut off, adds Mr. Shah.
Lok Sabha proceedings begin
Speakers Om Birla asks Home Minister for statement.
The Rajya Sabha passes the National Capital Territory of Delhi Laws (Special Provisions) Second (Amendment) Bill, 2021 by voice vote.
The House is adjourned till 9 a.m. on Wednesday.
Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Puri begins his reply
Mr. Puri thanks all 14 Members who spoke and supported the Bill.
"If the winter Session of the Parliament had been convened, there would have been no need for an Ordinance. If we had not brought the Ordinance and waited for this Session, authorities would have started sealing properties," he says to the allegation of the government using the Ordinance route repeatedly.
"In Delhi, they have taken recourse to one of the verticals of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). They have not implemented it, other than the credit-linked subsidy scheme," he says.
Mr. Puri assures the House that if statistics are perused, all the 1.12 crore homes under PMAY would have been sanctioned and the bulk would have been completed.
"The Rs. 20,000 crore Central Vista project will make Delhi one of the finest Capitals in the world."
Mr. Puri moves for the Bill to be passed.
Aam Aadmi Party MP Sanjay Singh supports the Bill. He says the government had promised the people of Delhi ownership rights. "They should give it now. Many deadlines have been passed," Mr. Singh says.
"This Bill shouldn't end up benefiting the land mafia," says Ramji of the BSP.
Binoy Viswam of CPI says the intentions of the legislation may be good and "the Minister is a good man", but the intention may not be realised. "The Central Vista project is the government's priority, not this. The governement does not have any political will to take care of the poor of the country," he says.
House takes up National Capital Territory of Delhi Laws (Special Provisions) Second (Amendment) Bill, 2021
Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Puri moves National Capital Territory of Delhi Laws (Special Provisions) Second (Amendment) Bill, 2021 for consideration.
"The population of Delhi in 1947 was 8 lakh. Since the first Census in 1951, it has gone up to 20 lakh because of refugees. The population would be close to 2 crore in Census 2021," he says.
"There is a tendency by this government to bypass the Parliament. It has become Ordinance raj. In the time of NDA II, till now, 77 Ordinances have been brought in", Binoy Viswam of the CPI says.
KTS Tulsi of the Congress says while we support the grant of these facilities to people living in unauthorised colonies, that in itself cannot be the end. "The dwellers of unauthorised colonies cannot be treated merely as vote banks. They are humans and have the right to a live a life of dignity under the Constitution," Mr. Tulsi says. "The ad hoc arrangement is an eyewash. one-third of the population of Delhi is living in miserable conditions...The government should find a long-lasting solution to this," he says.
Dr. Anil Agarwal of the BJP says water bodies in Delhi should be revived. The Master Plan of the city should help reduce pollution and ensure that the air quality index of Delhi improves, he says.
Santanu Sen of Trinamool Congress says the government has to ensure there are no evictions at slums.
Amar Patnaik of BJD supports the Bill and draws the Minister's attention to Odisha Land Right to Slum Dwellers Act, 2017.
Banda Prakash of the TRS supports the Bill, he requests the Minister to protect urban forests.
Home Minster's statement about the Uttarakhand disaster
Home Minister Amit Shah makes a statement about the Uttarakhand incident in the Rajya Sabha.
"Uttarakhand government has said there is no danger right now and the water level is also decreasing," he says.
He confirms that 20 people have died as of yesterday 5 p.m. Work on rescuing 25 to 35 people stuck in a tunnel of the NTPC project is on, he tells the House. "197 people are missing."
"The Prime Minister himself is monitoring the situation," Mr. Shah says.
The House stands in silence in memory of the victims.
"We hope for their souls to rest in peace and for the rescue operations to be successful, Mr. Naidu says.
Take pride in being a Hindustani Muslim: Azad
Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad addresses the House and says he will sum his experience in the Parliament in a few couplets.
"When I was a college student in Jammu and Kashmir, both August 14 and August 15 used to be celebrated. The majority used to celebrate August 14. I am among those fortunate people who never went to Pakistan. When I read about the conditions in Pakistan, I feel proud that we are Hindustani Muslims. We are seeing that Muslim countries are fighting amongst each other, there are no Hindus there or Christians."
"I got the chance to be here, in the Parliament, because of Indira Gandhi and Sanjay Gandhi," he says. "Indiraji used to say, 'remain in touch with Atalji, not BJP'".
When Atalji was the Leader of Opposition, I was the Parliamentary Affairs Minister and we did not have a majority. But those were the five easiest years for running the House. I learnt from Atalji how to be an efficient Leader of Opposition," Mr. Azad says.
Ghulam Nabi Azad gets emotional during his address to the Rajya Sabha as the House bids him farewell.
He recounts the time he saw bodies floating after the cyclone in Odisha in 1999. "I cried then. I cried another time after the incident recounted by the Prime Minister," he says.
He gets emotional speaking about the terrorist attack: "I did not know what to tell the children of those tourists killed by militants in Kashmir. My wish is to see an end to terrorism in this country." Wiping tears, he hopes the situation of Kashmir improves.
He says he used get 100% of Kashmiri Pandit votes while contesting University elections.
Thanking the Chairman and the Prime Minister, Mr. Azad says, "You never felt that it was a personal attack on you when I performed my role as Leader of Opposition and gave long speeches."
"Two people would necessarily wish me for Eid, Diwali or birthday- the Congress president and the PM," Mr. Azad recounts.
Deputy Chairman of the House Harivansh addresses the House. He wishes the four retiring Members good luck. "It was my fortune that I got to sit next to Ghulam Nabi Azad in the House," he says.
Mr. Azad has connected the entire country with Jammu and Kashmir, he says.
I have worked for the crown jewel of the country, will continue to work for it: Manhas
Shamsher Singh Manhas of the BJP, addressing the Rajya Sabha on February 9, 2021 as the House bid him farewell.
Shamsher Singh Manhas of the BJP, also retiring from the Rajya Sabha, addresses the House and says the situation was very serious in Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu and Ladakh used to be ignored.
"I come from Kashmir, the mukat mani (crown jewel) of the country, and am sitting amongst others from the country. I have worked for this mukut mani and will work for it in the future too," he says.
Hurts when we are called anti-nationals: Fayaz
Mir Mohammad Fayaz
Mir Mohammad Fayaz of the PDP, another of the retiring Members says he started his career with municipal committee elections. "I never thought I would be in the Rajya Sabha."
"We work for this country. We have taken the flag of the country to villages. It hurts us when we are called anti-national by the media and others," Mr. Fayaz says.
He appeals to the Home Minister for the special status of the erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir to be returned.
The House must do something for Jammu and Kashmir: Laway
One of the retiring Members, Nazir Ahmed Laway of the PDP, addressing the Rajya Sabha on February 9, 2021.
One of the retiring members, Nazir Ahmed Laway of the PDP says, "This House needs to do something for Jammu and Kashmir. We have lost a lot...We had only one sector, tourism, which has been destroyed. There will be no representation of Jammu and Kashmir after we leave."
Anand Sharma of the Congress says this is an emotional moment because we are remembering the entirety of the time Ghulam Nabi Azad has given for the country.
"There is no other person who has been in-charge of every State for the Congress," Mr. Sharma says.
If the Congress doesn't bring you back, we are ready to: Athawale
Manoj Kumar Jha of the RJD says, "I did not have a background in parliamentary affairs when I became a Member of the House, I had come straight from my academic experience in educational institutions. After I spoke here, the first compliment I recieved was from Azad ji. Whatever you have achieved cannot be taken from you."
Satish Chandra Mishra of the BSP says, "The way Azad ji participated in House proceedings is admirable Whenever there was a deadlock, he was the first one to call. He spoke politely, he always reminded us of nafasat in the language of people of Lucknow. When I told Mayawati ji this morning that Azad ji is retiring, she said you must be mistaken, please check. His party might want to retire him but he cannot retire." "We expect you to come back," Mr. Mishra said.
Sanjay Raut of the Shiv Sena says, "We all have to retire from here someday. Today, four of our friends from Jammu and Kashmir are retiring. They are from a State that always rules our hearts. I also couldn't believe that Ghulam Nabi Azad was retiring today," he says adding that he has full faith that he will be back.
"I don't think he will ever retire. He has a connection with Maharashtra. There are many leaders in your party, Azad sahab, but there are very few like you, who the whole country knows," Mr. Raut says.
Ramdas Athawale, the MoS Social Justice and Empowerment, says Azad should come back to the House. "If the Congress doesn't bring you back, we are ready to."
Abdul Wahab of the IUML thanks Mr. Azad for his leadership.
Sushil Kumar Gupta of the Aam Aadmi Party says Azad guided him like a parent. "Not just the Opposition, the ruling party also looked up to him with respect."
Bijoy Viswam of the CPI says there is no chance of replacing them from that State (Jammu and Kashmir) because that State doesn't exist anymore.
'Fare thy well, not farewell'
K.R. Suresh Reddy of the TRS says about Ghulam nabi Azad, "There are very few people who can name 100 people by name in every State. His understanding of this country is immense. He played a crucial role in the creation of Telengana."
Vijai Sai Reddy of YSRCP says, "I had limited interaction with Azad. I do not have positive experience about Congress party, but after listening to the PM i have changed my opinion, not about the party, but about Ghulam Nabi Azad ji. He has the realisation of reality unlike the Congress party."
Ram Gopal Yadav of the SP says, "I can't say much after an emotional speech by the PM. I am worried, who, in his absence, will mediate when a deadlock happens. Azad acted as a bridge. Who will be his alternative now? He guided all members in a gentle way. The kind of vacuum we felt after the death of Arun ji, the same will be felt. I hope he is brought back to the House." "I would like to request the PM to restore Statehood to J&K and let him return as CM of J&K."
Ram Chandra Prasad Singh of the JDU says, "He has a beautiful name, starting from Ghulam to Azad. The PM mentioned his garden in his bungalow. When I was Nitish ji's PA, he used to live in the 22, Akbar Road bungalow. The way you maintained your garden, you handled the country."
Elamala Kareem of the CPI-M says, "I wish all retiring Members all the best and expect to see them in this House or the other. A politician never retires." "He gave us a direction and view to conduct this House." He says, he would bid the Members "fare thy well and not a farewell".
'A role model'
A. Navaneethakrishnan of the AIADMK says, "Amma (Jayalalithaa) directed me to interact with all Members, especially Ghulam Nabi Azad. She asked me to move around with him. When Amma was alive, I could not take decisions immediately. I told him and he appreciated my response. He told me, 'you should respect the command of your party.'"
Prasanna Acharya od the BJD says, "I give my compliments to all the four retiring Members. I did not know Ghulam Nabi Azad personally. As Health Minister, he visited Odisha. When we met, he behaved as if he had known me for decades. Kashmir is not only his politics, but his heart and mind. He speaks with devotion about Kashmir."
Tiruchi Siva of the DMK says, "I know Ghulam Nabi ji for two decades now. When everyone was locked up during the pandemic, we received calls from two persons - one was from you, the Chairman, and the other was from the Leader of Opposition, Mr. Azad. Room number 27 is empty and we miss Arun Jaitley and now we will miss Ghulam Nabi ji."
"He used to coordinate with all of us and we could call him at any time of the day. He was a role model for all Members of the Parliament. I don't think he is retiring, he might become the Chief Minister of J and K," he says.
'Earned the respect of all Members'
Sharad Pawar of the NCP says: "These four Members have always wished well for J&K. My association with Azad goes back a long way. He is an organisational man. He started his career with the Congress ideology, his work was noticed and he was made the in-charge of Indian Youth Congress. We were his seniors and used to observe how he organised the youth. 1982 was a memorable year for his life. He got married that year and stood for elections from most the backward district in Maharashtra then. I was in the Opposition then and told people that someone from Kashmir is fighting elections from here. We held public meetings against him, but he won with a huge margin."
"Ghulam Nabi must be the only Member to have worked in Union Ministries. There are struggles in politics, as mentioned by the PM. He had good relations with all the Opposition Members. He has earned the respect of all Members."
Sukhendu Shekhar Ray of the TMC says: "I have known Azad since 1978. In those days, there was a three-tier Cabinet and I had started my legal practice." He recalls a song by S.D Burman's - o jaane wale, ho sake to laut ke aana (The one leaving, do return if possible).
PM Modi addresses the House
PM Modi chokes while addressing the Rajya Sabha and bidding farewell to Member Ghulam Nabi Azad.
PM Modi chokes while addressing the Rajya Sabha and bidding farewell to Member Ghulam Nabi Azad.
"Today, we speak about the four Members who bring life to the Parliament and contribute to public service. I thank all four of you for your contributions," Mr. Modi says.
The PM says: "Not a single Session has gone by when Mir Mohammad and Nazir Ahmed have not discussed issues with me in my chamber. Sometimes, they came with their families. The kind of information and insight they provided was unique, their commitment and ability will be useful for the country and to J&K>"
"I have known Shamsher Singh for decades. I do not even remember the years now, we have travelled together on a scooter. Shamsher was among the people who were jailed young during the Emergency. His attendance in Rajya Sabha is 96%," Mr. Modi says.
"History has taken a turn and the four Members of J&K are a part of it," the Prime Minister tells the House.
"I am worried. How can one match Ghulam Nabi Azad's stature after he is replaced (he is Leader of Opposition). Not only was he concerned about his party but also the country."
"During the early days of COVID-19 I met floor leaders, Azad called and suggested that I should meet all the party leaders. I followed his advice. He has had experience of both ruling and Opposition side."
"Years ago, when I came to the Parliament for some work, I was not active in electoral politics then. We were chatting in the lobby. Journalists got curious. Azad ji gave an apt reply: 'you may have seen us fighting on TV and streets but in this complex we are all one'.
"You may not know this, but the garden in his bungalow will remind you of the Kashmir valley. Whenever a competition is held, his bungalow is number one."
"We have been very close, there has not been an occasion when we have not been in touch."
Prime Minister bids farewell to Ghulam Nabi Azad in the Rajya Sabha on February 9, 2021.
PM gets emotional when he remembers an incident of terrorist attack on Gujarat tourists in Jammu and Kashmir. "Terrorists attacked and eight people of Gujarat were killed. The first call I received was from Ghulam Nabi ji. That call was not only to inform me of the incident, but one of concern, like a family member."
"His tears were not stopping on the phone. That time, Pranab Mukherjee was the Defence Minister. I asked if an aircraft could be given to get the dead bodies back home. Mukherjee saab ensured that it was provided. Ghulam Nabi ji called again at night, he was at the airport."
"As a friend, I respect him as a tall leader. His desire to work for this country will never let him sit idle. Whatever responsibility he is given, he will add value to it. I thank him for his contributions. Personally, I would request that he never think that he is not a Member of the House. My doors are open for all four of you to come and give suggestions to me."
Farewell to retiring Members
Ghulam Nabi Azad Looks on in the Rajya Sabha as Members bid him farewell on February 9, 2021.
Ghulam Nabi Azad Looks on in the Rajya Sabha as Members bid him farewell on February 9, 2021.
"Today, we bid farewell to four colleagues from the Union Territory of J&K- Mir Mohammad Fayaz, Shamsher Singh, retiring on February 10; Ghulam Nabi Azad (Leader of Opposition) and Nazir Ahmad Laway, retiring on February 15," says RS Chairman Naidu.
"Since the legislature is under suspended animation, no new MP will replace them in the House."
"Ghulam Nabi Azad has been a voice of sanity. He has served for as many as 28 years. He is one of the veterans of the House. In 2015, he was awarded as the outstanding Member. He has been a role model for first-time Members. He speaks politely but conveys his point effectively. I have benefited richly from his suggestions. As a Chairman, i will miss his services," Mr. Naidu says.
"The other three have also raised important issues, also used to take opportunity to continue debates about their respective States."
"My appreciation for the courtesy, coordination and cooperation extended to the Chair by the retiring Members. I hope they will continue to serve the people with the same zeal. You are only retired but not tired from offering public services."
Minister Anurag Thakur says market forces determine the value of the Indian currency. "RBI intervenes only in extreme cases. We have seen 58 billion dollar FDI and 590 billion dollars forex so far. The value of rupee has seen an appreciation of 3.39."
MoS Finance says, "Our banks are doing well. In a country like India, we need more and stronger banks."
"98.5% deposits in cooperative banks is safe as most people have under Rs. 5 lakh as deposit that is insured as per a policy brought by the Modi government," says Mr. Thakur.
Question Hour ends for the day.
Health Minister Harsh Vardhan during the Rajya Sabha proceedings on february 9, 2021.
Minister Anurag Thakur says 92 Chinese companies are registered in India, of which 80 are active. "Law regarding FDI was revised during the pandemic so that Indian companies cannot be taken over,' he says, on being asked what action was taken against Chinese companies.
"We are getting investments from Taiwan like other countries," responds Mr. Thakur on a question regarding Taiwanese investments.
Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan says all steps are being taken to control the pandemic, including financial support to States. PM-Cares fund is supporting the vaccination program, he says.
He says that under the PM-Garib Kalyan Yojana, there is a provision to provide Rs. 50 lakh to the kin of health workers who died due to COVID-19 in private and public hospitals.
MoS Finance Anurag Thakur says, "in the past one year, the number of errors on GSTN network has come down to 0.03%. GST portal was active 99.49% of the times from January to December 2020 and there was no incident of the entire portal crashing."
MoS Finance says the RBI does not have a legal framework to regulate crypto currencies to a question on regulation of Bitcoins. "The existing laws are inadequate. Inter-Ministerial Committee has given a report, the empowered technology group has met, the Cabinet Secretary has given a report, a Bill to regulate crycpto currencies is being finalised and will be sent to the Cabinet soon," he says.
"RBI took initiative and banned the use of crypto currencies," MoS Finance says, on being asked why the government has not filed a review petition against the SC ruling on crypto currencies.
Question Hour begins
K.R. Suresh Reddy asks what relief has been given to the tourism industry affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tourism Minister Prahlad Singh Patel says he has held four meetings with tourism representatives. "Despite their losses they are standing with the country," he says.
"7.29 lakh touristsare seen in J&K. Hotel industry will revive if domestic tourists travel," says the Culture Minister.
Deepak Prakash of BJP asks how many people in Jharkhand have benefited from power projects. Union Power Minister R.K. Singh says Jharkhand has less power capacity than the rest of the country. "29 MW of electricity capacity in Jharkhand. Jharkhand policies are good but they must be implemented. Rs. 18,000 crore has been allotted to Jharkhand for first the phase," he says.
Ram Gopal Yadav of the SP raises the issue of lateral induction to the posts of Joint Secretary by the government.
"The IAS fraternity is upset. Lakhs of aspirants prepare for the UPSC, they are anguished. There is no scope of reservation. In the last nine recruitments no SC or ST was inducted. Please give instructions and stop this for the administration will suffer."
N. Gokulakrishnan of the AIADMK seeks for an increase in the budgetary grant for Puducherry.
Priyanka Chaturvedi, Shiv Sena, says "Indian sailors are still stuck on China sea on MV Anastasia. It should be our priority to bring them back. They are stuck there since July 2020." Union Minister Mansukh Mandavdia responds and says that two Ministries are in touch with authorities of China on the issue.
Vandana Chavan, NCP, says India will require 30 million hectares for afforestation to stop CO2 emissions.
Tiruchi Siva, DMK, says, "There are 49 Kendriya Vidyalayas in Tamil Nadu. None of them have Tamil language teachers. This is injustice to the local students. It is against the federal structure of the country. Students are enrolled into KVs because the fees is low and education level is good. The poor students are being disadvabtaged. Tamil should be made a compulsory language in KVs in the State. And also respective regional languages in other States," he says.
Chairman says this is a matter to be looked into by the Education Ministry.
Sasmit Patra of BJD speaks in Odiya.
Home Minister Amit Shah to make a suo motu statement at 11.30 a.m. on the Uttarakhand disaster.
Zero Hour begins
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi says whatever happened yesterday is not acceptable. Heasks Vijai Sai Reddy to apologise.
Vijai Sai Reddy says his intention was not to bring disrepute. "Yesterday, I was in a state of anger, I take back my words and regret it," Mr. Reddy says.
Mahesh Poddar of BJP raises the issue of Netflix and other OTT platforms hosting content that "affect Indian values". "The language used in the programs reflects gender discrimination, body parts are displayed, women are objectified. The government should not delay and regulate these platforms at the earliest," he says.
I&B Minister Prakash Javadekar says guidelines to regulate OTT platforms are ready and they will be implemented soon.
Rajya Sabha proceedings begin
Chairman Venkaiah Naidu condoles the death of former Member Mohinder Singh Gill; Amadou Toumani Toure, former President of Mali; Mamadou Tandja, former President of Niger; and Mr. Ambrose Madvulo Dlamini, former Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Eswatini.
Lok Sabha
Reports to be presented:
Reports of Committee on Estimates;
Reports of Public Accounts Committee;
Reports of the Committee on Government Assurances;
Reports of Standing Committee on Water Resources.
Motion regarding the report of joint committee on the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019- Extension of time
Motion of Thanks on the President's Address
General discussion on the Union Budget
Bills for consideration and passing:
The Arbitration and Conciliation (Amendment) Bill, 2021.
Rajya Sabha
Obituary references to the passing away of:
1. Shri Mohinder Singh Lather, (ex-Member);
2. Mr. Amadou Toumani Toure, former President of Mali;
3. Mr. Mamadou Tandja, former President of Niger; and
4. His Excellency Mr. Ambrose Madvulo Dlamini, former Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Eswatini.
Reports to be presented:
Report of the Committee on Subordinate Legislation;
Reports of the Department related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Water Resources;
Reports of the Public Accounts Committee.
Bills for consideration and passing:
The National Capital Territory of Delhi Laws (Special Provisions) Second (Amendment) Bill, 2021;
The Major Port Authorities Bill, 2020.
General discussion on the Union Budget
