Senior Congress leader P. Chidambaram on Sunday responded sharply to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Independence Day remarks on “ideological” or “intellectual Naxals”, saying, “I am proud to be a dimagi Naxal.”

Chidambaram’s remarks came a day after PM Modi, during his Independence Day address from the Red Fort on August 15, warned against people with Maoist ideology whom he accused of having established themselves within the system and influencing government policies.

Modi Warns Against ‘Ideological Naxals’

Addressing the nation on the occasion of India’s 80th Independence Day, PM Modi said armed Naxalism had been largely eliminated from the country’s forests but warned that ideological supporters of the movement could continue to pose a challenge.

The Prime Minister said people with Maoist thinking had, over the years, found positions within corridors of power, including as advisers on government committees, and had influenced policy decisions.

Modi urged citizens to remain vigilant and said such individuals should be identified and isolated.

PM Highlights Naxalism’s Impact

Modi also spoke about the impact of decades of Naxal and Maoist violence on communities and security personnel.

He said Naxalism had once controlled large parts of India and kept a significant population under the threat of violence. According to the Prime Minister, more than 3,500 police and security personnel were killed during the conflict.

He said the movement had damaged the lives and aspirations of lakhs of young people and caused severe losses to families across affected regions.

Chidambaram Hits Back

Responding to the Prime Minister’s comments, Chidambaram used the term “dimagi Naxal” — broadly referring to an ideological or intellectual supporter of Naxalism — in a pointed response.

His remark is likely to intensify the political debate over the government’s characterization of Maoist ideology and criticism of policies associated with the Left.

The Congress leader’s response also comes amid continuing political disagreements between the ruling BJP and the opposition over national security, internal security and the government’s approach towards Maoist-affected regions.

Modi Says Naxalism Has Declined

In his Independence Day address, Modi credited his government’s policies since 2014 with making the elimination of Naxalism a major priority.

He said areas that once witnessed frequent violence and armed activity were now seeing development, greater public confidence and government outreach.

The Prime Minister described the decline of armed Naxalism as a significant achievement and said regions once affected by violence were increasingly associated with development and the national flag.

Political Debate Continues

Chidambaram’s response has brought the issue of “ideological Naxalism” back into the centre of the political debate. While the government maintains that Maoist ideology remains a potential threat even as armed violence declines, opposition leaders have frequently questioned the broad use of such labels against critics and intellectuals.

The exchange highlights the continuing political divide over how the country should address the legacy of Naxalism, security challenges and ideological dissent.

 Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has accused leaders of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) of allegedly performing “black magic” and rituals with the intention of destabilising and defaming the Congress government in the state.

Reddy made the remarks while addressing an event in Sangareddy on Saturday, where he participated in a smart ration card distribution programme. Without naming BRS MLA and senior party leader T. Harish Rao, the Chief Minister alleged that the former minister had visited temples in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu to perform rituals against the state government.

The allegations have added another political flashpoint between the ruling Congress and the opposition BRS, with Harish Rao rejecting the claims and accusing the Chief Minister of making false statements.

Reddy Links Rituals to Government

According to Reddy, BRS leaders were allegedly praying for drought, farmers' difficulties and the downfall of the Congress government.

The Chief Minister claimed that such activities were aimed at damaging the government's image and creating difficulties for the people of Telangana.

However, the allegations were presented as political claims, and no independent evidence was cited to establish that Harish Rao or other BRS leaders had performed black magic or rituals against the government.

Congress Had Made Similar Claim

Reddy's latest statement follows a similar allegation made earlier this month by Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee president B. Mahesh Kumar Goud.

On August 4, Goud had alleged that Harish Rao had performed what he described as “evil worship” or black magic with the intention of stopping rainfall in Telangana.

The issue resurfaced during Reddy's Sangareddy programme, with the Chief Minister repeating allegations concerning alleged rituals in neighbouring states.

The BRS has rejected the accusations and has sought to shift the discussion towards governance and public issues.

Reddy Highlights Farmer Support

While addressing the gathering, Reddy also highlighted the Congress government's welfare measures, particularly those aimed at farmers.

He said around ₹36,000 crore had been transferred to the bank accounts of approximately 70 lakh farmers under the Rythu Bharosa scheme.

The Chief Minister also said that despite the impact of the El Niño weather phenomenon, Telangana had received adequate water in the Godavari and Krishna river systems.

Reddy further highlighted the government's food distribution programme, saying more than 2 lakh quintals of rice are being distributed every month to around 3.48 crore beneficiaries.

Harish Rao Rejects Allegations

Harish Rao strongly rejected the Chief Minister's allegations and accused Reddy of making false statements on Independence Day.

The BRS leader said he had been consistently raising issues concerning the state government, including alleged corruption, incomplete implementation of farmer loan waivers and shortages of fertilisers.

Rao argued that these issues, rather than any alleged ritual activity, were the reason for his criticism of the government.

He said he would continue raising the concerns of farmers, unemployed youth and students.

Defamation Case Threat

Harish Rao also referred to the possibility of legal action over the allegations made against him.

He has indicated that a defamation case could be filed against the Chief Minister in connection with the claims.

The exchange comes amid an increasingly confrontational political atmosphere in Telangana, with the Congress government and the BRS continuing to attack each other's record and political conduct.

Political Fight Intensifies

The latest dispute over alleged black magic has added an unusual dimension to the ongoing Congress-BRS confrontation.

While the Congress has used the allegations to accuse the opposition of attempting to undermine the government, the BRS has maintained that its focus remains on issues affecting farmers, students and young people.

Neither side has presented publicly verified evidence establishing the claims of black magic. The controversy is therefore expected to remain primarily a political dispute unless further evidence or legal proceedings emerge.

Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, is likely to visit Ujjain in September as part of an organisational outreach programme with party workers from the Ujjain division.

The proposed visit will bring together Congress office-bearers and workers appointed through the party's organisational restructuring exercise. Leaders and workers from Ujjain, Ratlam, Shajapur, Dewas, Agar Malwa, Mandsaur and Neemuch districts are expected to participate in the programme.

Congress Begins Preparations

Following reports of Gandhi's proposed visit, the Congress organisation in Ujjain has started preparations for the programme. District Congress president Mahesh Parmar and city Congress president Mukesh Bhati are understood to be working on the arrangements and strategy.

However, the local leaders have so far avoided making detailed public statements about the proposed programme.

Two Venues Under Consideration

Kshirsagar and Kartik Mela Ground are reportedly being considered as possible venues for the event. The final venue will depend on administrative permission. Once permission is granted, arrangements, including the installation of a dome structure, are expected to be made at the selected location.

During the proposed programme, Gandhi is expected to interact with Congress workers and office-bearers from across the Ujjain division. The meeting is likely to focus on the party's organisational structure and its grassroots presence.

Focus on Grassroots Organisation

The proposed interaction is expected to include district presidents, block presidents, district and block executive members, Mandalam presidents and their executive committees, Gram Panchayat committee presidents, BLA-2 representatives and other party workers.

Gandhi is also expected to hold discussions with Panchayat Committee presidents and Mandalam-level office-bearers. The interaction could cover strengthening the organisation at the grassroots level, the role of workers and preparations for upcoming political activities.

Ujjain Date Yet to Be Finalised

Although September has been proposed for Gandhi's visit, the exact date has not yet been finalised.

A similar organisational programme is also being proposed in the Rewa division after the Ujjain visit. However, the date and other details of the Rewa programme are yet to be decided.

Mahakal Temple Visit Likely

Gandhi has previously visited Ujjain and offered prayers at the Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple. During the proposed September visit, Congress workers are also expecting him to visit the temple and seek the blessings of Lord Mahakal.

It is not yet clear whether the temple visit will take place before or after the organisational meeting. A final schedule is expected to be announced once the details of the visit are confirmed.

More than 100 workers of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) were detained in Ranchi on Tuesday during a protest march towards the Jharkhand Assembly, as student groups continued demonstrations over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations and the police action during an earlier protest.

The ABVP members began their procession from the Old Vidhan Sabha area and attempted to march towards the New Vidhan Sabha, a senior police officer said. The detention came a day after police used water cannons and lathis to disperse JPSC and JSSC aspirants during a "Vidhan Sabha gherao" protest in Ranchi.

ABVP March Stopped in Ranchi

The ABVP organised Tuesday's march to highlight the demands being raised by students and competitive examination aspirants in the state.

Police deployed personnel and barricades along the route as the protesters moved towards the Assembly. More than 100 ABVP workers were detained after they attempted to proceed towards the designated security zone, according to officials.

The demonstrations are part of a wider student movement over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations conducted by state agencies.

Students Demand Action on Exams

JPSC and JSSC aspirants have been demanding action over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations and recruitment procedures.

Among the demands raised by protesters is a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the alleged irregularities. Some protesters have also sought cancellation of the JSSC CGL examination.

Students have accused the state government of failing to fully address their concerns and have continued to press for greater transparency in the recruitment process.

Police Used Water Cannons, Lathis

The latest protest follows Monday's confrontation between police and student protesters in Ranchi.

A group of JPSC and JSSC aspirants had marched towards the Jharkhand Assembly as part of a "Vidhan Sabha gherao" programme. Heavy barricading was put in place to stop the protesters from reaching the Assembly.

When some protesters attempted to cross the barricades, police used water cannons. Clashes subsequently broke out, after which police resorted to a lathi charge to disperse the crowd.

The police action triggered criticism from opposition leaders and intensified the political debate surrounding the student protests.

Rahul Gandhi Condemns Police Action

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi criticised the police action against the protesting students.

He said peaceful student protests should not be met with violence and expressed support for the students' right to raise their concerns.

His remarks also provided fresh ammunition to the political opposition, which has been targeting the Jharkhand government over its handling of the demonstrations.

BJP Targets Hemant Soren Government

The BJP has stepped up its criticism of the Hemant Soren-led government over the protests.

Babulal Marandi, Leader of Opposition in the Jharkhand Assembly, urged the Congress to withdraw its support to the state government if it genuinely backed the demands of protesting students.

The BJP has also demanded action over the alleged police excesses and called for a CBI investigation into the examination-related allegations.

The Congress, meanwhile, has faced criticism from the BJP because it is part of the governing arrangement in Jharkhand while its national leaders have criticised police action against students.

Goa BJP Alleges Congress Double Standards

The political dispute has also spread beyond Jharkhand.

Goa BJP leaders on Tuesday accused the Congress of adopting "double standards" over student protests. BJP MLA and state minister Mauvin Godinho alleged that Congress leaders had strongly backed student protests in other parts of the country while remaining silent over the situation in Jharkhand.

Godinho demanded an apology from Rahul Gandhi and questioned the Congress's position on the issue.

Student Movement Continues

The continuing protests have put pressure on the Jharkhand government to respond to concerns raised by examination aspirants.

The immediate focus remains on allegations of irregularities in recruitment examinations, demands for an independent investigation and the conduct of future examinations.

With political parties now intensifying their interventions, the student agitation has evolved into a wider political issue in the state. Further demonstrations and negotiations between student representatives and the government are expected as protesters continue to seek action on their demands.

Facing growing opposition from political parties, State governments and civil society groups, the Centre is likely to move a resolution in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday to refer the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for detailed examination.

The development comes amid mounting demands for the withdrawal of the Bill in its current form. The Tamil Nadu Assembly on Tuesday passed a unanimous resolution urging the Centre to withdraw the legislation and conduct wider consultations with stakeholders. In Mizoram, large numbers of Christians also participated in a mass rally against the proposed changes.

Centre Considers JPC Route

According to sources, the Union government has informed its allies and other political parties that it intends to move a resolution in the Lok Sabha seeking referral of the FCRA Bill to a JPC.

The move could provide the government with an opportunity to examine the contentious provisions in greater detail and hear representations from affected organisations and stakeholders before the legislation progresses further.

Congress general secretary and Rajya Sabha Chief Whip Jairam Ramesh pointed out that the Bill was not listed in the day's agenda and said the Opposition wanted the legislation withdrawn.

Tamil Nadu Assembly Passes Resolution

The Tamil Nadu Assembly's resolution has added to the political pressure surrounding the proposed legislation.

Moving the resolution, Tamil Nadu Minister Rajamohan said the Assembly was "deeply concerned" about provisions dealing with the transfer, management and sale of assets belonging to charitable organisations.

The concerns specifically relate to situations in which an organisation's FCRA registration expires, is not renewed, is cancelled or is surrendered.

Concerns Over Charitable Organisations

The Tamil Nadu government has argued that the proposed provisions could affect the autonomy of charitable organisations operating in the country.

The Assembly resolution particularly highlighted educational and social welfare institutions run by minority communities, saying the provisions could adversely affect their functioning.

It urged the Centre to undertake comprehensive consultations with all stakeholders, including State governments, before proceeding with the legislation.

Mizoram Witnesses Mass Rally

The proposed amendments have also triggered protests in Mizoram, where Christians held a mass rally in the State capital.

The mobilisation reflects concerns among sections of the Christian community and organisations that the proposed changes could have implications for institutions and organisations that receive foreign contributions for charitable, educational and social welfare activities.

The protests have added a regional dimension to the debate over the Bill.

Opposition Seeks Withdrawal

The Opposition has criticised the proposed legislation and questioned the government's decision to introduce changes to the FCRA framework.

Congress leaders have maintained that the Bill should be withdrawn rather than being pushed through without adequate consultation.

The Opposition is also expected to raise concerns over provisions that could potentially affect the functioning and assets of organisations dependent on foreign contributions.

What Happens Next

If the government moves the resolution in the Lok Sabha, the JPC will examine the Bill and can seek views and submissions from political parties, government departments, State governments, experts and other stakeholders.

The committee's recommendations could lead to changes in the legislation before it is brought back for parliamentary consideration.

The proposed referral is therefore likely to delay the Bill's immediate legislative progress while providing a formal mechanism to examine the concerns raised by different sections.

The controversy surrounding the FCRA Bill has meanwhile widened beyond Parliament, with State-level opposition in Tamil Nadu and street protests in Mizoram putting additional pressure on the Centre to address concerns over the proposed changes.

The Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly on Monday unanimously passed a government resolution making the rendition of Tamil Thaai Vazhthu, the state song, mandatory at the beginning of official programmes across the state.

The resolution, moved by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, extends the requirement to government offices, educational institutions, state-run bodies and other public establishments. The move received support from ruling and opposition parties, including the DMK, AIADMK and Congress.

The decision comes amid a wider debate over protocol at official functions and the place of Tamil language and cultural symbols in public life.

CM Vijay Highlights Tamil Identity

Chief Minister Vijay said the decision was aimed at preserving Tamil Nadu's linguistic and cultural identity and should not be viewed through a political lens.

Addressing the Assembly, he said Tamil represents more than a means of communication for the people of the state, describing it as closely connected with their identity, emotions and sense of pride.

Vijay also appealed to political parties to keep the issue above partisan differences. According to the Chief Minister, giving the state song a formal place at public programmes should be seen as a cultural matter rather than a political contest.

The unanimous passage of the resolution means the government and opposition have backed the formal expansion of the song's use across state institutions.

Institutions Covered Under Resolution

The resolution provides for Tamil Thaai Vazhthu to be rendered at the beginning of official programmes conducted by a broad range of government and publicly funded institutions.

These include state government departments and offices, schools, colleges, universities and technical education institutions. Municipal bodies and other local government establishments will also come under the arrangement.

State public sector undertakings and autonomous institutions functioning under the government are also covered.

The measure is intended to bring greater uniformity to the use of the state song during official events.

History of Tamil Thaai Vazhthu

Tamil Thaai Vazhthu is an invocation dedicated to Mother Tamil. The song was written by poet and playwright Manonmaniam Sundaranar in 1891.

Its use at government functions in Tamil Nadu dates back several decades. The state government issued an order on November 23, 1970, providing for the song to be played at official events.

The song was subsequently formally designated as Tamil Nadu's state anthem in December 2021.

Monday's resolution further strengthens its institutional status by making its rendition part of official programmes conducted by state institutions.

Political Parties Back Move

The resolution received unanimous support in the Assembly, including from opposition parties.

The backing from multiple political parties is significant because questions involving language and cultural identity have historically played an important role in Tamil Nadu's political discourse.

The Chief Minister's appeal to keep the issue away from political differences also underlined the government's attempt to present the measure as a broader cultural decision.

Comes Amid Protocol Debate

The resolution comes at a time when questions over protocol at public functions have attracted attention.

A recent advisory from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs on following prescribed national protocol at public events has added to the backdrop against which Tamil Nadu's decision has been taken.

The state government's resolution, however, specifically focuses on the use of Tamil Thaai Vazhthu at programmes conducted by institutions under the state administration.

With the Assembly now having unanimously approved the proposal, the song is set to have a more clearly defined place at official functions across Tamil Nadu.

The move also reflects the continuing importance attached to Tamil language and cultural identity in the state's public institutions, while the government has stressed that the initiative should remain separate from political differences.

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is holding consultations with the Congress leadership in Delhi over portfolio allocation and possible changes to his recently expanded Cabinet.

The Congress leadership had cleared 20 names for the August 3 expansion, but only 19 ministers were sworn in. The induction of MLC Gayathri Shanthegowda was deferred, leaving the expanded ministry without a woman minister.

The development immediately drew criticism from the Opposition and women leaders. Shivakumar has acknowledged the issue and said women will receive representation, but no fresh appointment has been notified.

The Karnataka Chief Minister’s official portal has published his assurance that women would be accommodated.

Why Gayathri Shanthegowda Was Not Inducted

Gayathri Shanthegowda was reportedly among the 20 names cleared by the Congress leadership. However, her ministerial induction was deferred because procedural steps connected with her position in the Karnataka Legislative Council had not been completed.

Her name remains central to speculation over the vacant Cabinet position, but neither the Karnataka government nor the Congress has announced her appointment.

Shivakumar is expected to seek approval from the central leadership before making any further change.

Portfolios Still Awaited

The allocation of departments to the 19 newly inducted ministers is another major pending decision.

Reports indicate that Shivakumar must balance administrative experience with competing caste, community and regional demands. Some Congress MLAs and community organisations have publicly complained about inadequate representation.

Former chief minister Siddaramaiah’s supporters are also reportedly unhappy over the exclusion of some legislators considered close to him. Reports have specifically referred to discontent over Byadgi MLA Basavaraj N. Shivannavar being denied a Cabinet berth.

The inclusion of former minister B. Nagendra has separately attracted political attention because of allegations connected with the Valmiki Corporation case. Nagendra has denied wrongdoing.

No Final Changes Yet

The Chief Minister’s visit to Delhi indicates that the Cabinet formation process remains incomplete, but it should not be presented as a confirmed reshuffle.

As of publication:

• No new minister has been appointed.
• Portfolios for the 19 ministers have not been officially announced.
• Gayathri Shanthegowda has not taken the ministerial oath.
• No minister has been removed from the expanded Cabinet.

The Indian Express and Times of India have reported that the discussions cover portfolios, women’s representation and internal party dissatisfaction

New Delhi: Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi has reportedly conveyed to Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju that the proposed Delimitation Bill is "completely unacceptable" to the Congress Party. The remarks came during a meeting between the two leaders as the Centre sought support from the Opposition for key constitutional amendment proposals.

Rahul Gandhi Reiterates Congress Stand

According to reports, Rahul Gandhi made it clear that the Congress does not support the proposed Delimitation Bill in its current form. The meeting was part of the government's effort to break the political deadlock and gather support for legislation related to delimitation and the implementation of women's reservation

Despite the Centre's outreach, Congress has maintained that its position on the issue remains unchanged.

Government Continues Outreach

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju met Rahul Gandhi as part of consultations with opposition parties on the proposed constitutional amendments. The discussions reportedly lasted around 50 minutes, but no consensus emerged. (The Economic Times)

The government is exploring the possibility of introducing the legislation during the ongoing Monsoon Session instead of convening a separate special session.

Congress to Respond After Internal Discussions

Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal confirmed that discussions had taken place with Rijiju regarding the Delimitation Bill. He said the party would deliberate internally before issuing any formal response, while reiterating that the Congress' overall position has not changed. (The Economic Times)

Delimitation Remains a Major Political Issue

The proposed delimitation exercise has become one of the most debated political issues in Parliament. Several opposition parties, particularly from southern states, have expressed concerns that redrawing parliamentary constituencies based on updated population figures could alter the balance of representation among states. 

The Centre, meanwhile, continues to engage with political parties in an attempt to secure the broad support required for a constitutional amendment. 

New Delhi: The Central Government has clarified that it has no plans to convene a special session of Parliament to introduce the Delimitation Bill or the Women's Reservation Bill later this month. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju dismissed reports suggesting that a three-day special session would be held between August 16 and August 18.

Instead, the government is considering introducing the proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill during the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament, provided sufficient political support can be secured.

No Proposal for Special Session

Speaking to the media, Rijiju said there is currently no proposal to summon a separate special session for the two key legislations.

His remarks came amid speculation that the Centre was preparing to call Parliament back after the Monsoon Session specifically to push the Delimitation Bill and legislation related to women's reservation.

Government Seeks Wider Political Consensus

Sources indicated that the government has initiated consultations with various political parties to build consensus on the proposed constitutional amendment.

As part of these efforts, Rijiju reportedly met Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and other Congress leaders to discuss the possibility of supporting the legislation.

However, according to sources, the Congress has not extended its support at this stage.

Congress Yet to Finalise Its Position

Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal confirmed that discussions had taken place with the Parliamentary Affairs Minister regarding the delimitation proposal.

He said the party would deliberate internally before communicating its official position. According to Venugopal, the Congress and the broader Opposition continue to maintain their previously stated stand on the issue until further discussions are completed.

Opposition Continues Protest in Parliament

The political developments unfolded amid continued Opposition protests inside and outside Parliament over several national issues.

Opposition MPs held demonstrations within the Parliament complex, marching from the Gandhi statue while raising slogans and displaying placards. During the protest, leaders also highlighted other issues, including allegations related to the Ayodhya Ram Temple donation controversy.

Earlier Attempt Failed

The Centre had earlier convened a three-day special session in April, during which the proposed Constitutional Amendment relating to delimitation and allied legislation was discussed.

However, the government was unable to secure the required numbers to move the constitutional amendment forward, prompting renewed efforts during the ongoing Monsoon Session.

As discussions continue, the government is expected to engage with additional political parties in an effort to build the broad parliamentary support necessary for any constitutional amendment.

A heated exchange erupted in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday between Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge and Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, as the Opposition intensified its demand for Home Minister Amit Shah to make a statement in Parliament over the alleged police action against student protesters.

The confrontation took place during the Monsoon Session amid repeated disruptions and sloganeering by Opposition members, leading to multiple adjournments in both Houses.

Kharge Defends Right to Speak

Responding to Rijiju's remarks, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge asserted that it was his parliamentary right to decide what to speak and when to speak.

Kharge accused the government of attempting to dictate proceedings in the House and questioned why Amit Shah had not appeared in Parliament to respond to the Opposition's concerns.

He also referred to former Union Minister Arun Jaitley's earlier observations that disruptions were part of parliamentary democracy, arguing that the Opposition was raising legitimate issues concerning students.

Rijiju Urges Opportunity for New MPs

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju countered that Kharge was repeatedly speaking on the same subject while preventing newly elected Opposition MPs from participating in debates.

Citing Congress leader Pawan Khera, Rijiju said the first-time Rajya Sabha member had not yet been given an opportunity to deliver his maiden speech because senior leaders continued occupying the discussion time.

Rijiju further maintained that the Leader of the Opposition could request the Chair but could not dictate which minister should appear before the House.

Opposition Continues Protest

Opposition MPs continued raising slogans demanding that Home Minister Amit Shah address Parliament over the alleged July 20 police action against student protesters.

Members repeatedly chanted slogans calling upon Shah to come to the House, while several Opposition parties also sought discussions on the alleged Ram Mandir donation theft issue.

The Rajya Sabha witnessed repeated interruptions before being adjourned for an hour.

Amit Shah Arrives in Parliament

Amid the ongoing political confrontation, Union Home Minister Amit Shah reached Parliament during the day.

Government sources indicated that Shah was expected to participate in the Lok Sabha discussion on the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, although the Opposition continued demanding a separate statement specifically on the student protest issue.

Lok Sabha Passes Bill Without Debate

The Lok Sabha later passed the Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill without debate before proceedings were adjourned until 11 am on Friday.

Earlier in the day, the House also observed a tribute to the victims of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombings, with a visiting Japanese parliamentary delegation joining the proceedings.

Parliament Remains Deadlocked

The latest confrontation reflects the continuing deadlock during the Monsoon Session, with the Opposition insisting on discussions over alleged police action against students and other issues before allowing normal legislative business to proceed.

The government, meanwhile, has maintained that Parliament should continue functioning and legislative work should not be disrupted.

Parliament witnessed another day of political confrontation on Tuesday as Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju held discussions with Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on the proposed Delimitation Bill, while Opposition parties intensified protests over the alleged Ram Mandir donation theft case and the July 20 action against protesters.

According to Congress sources, Rijiju met Rahul Gandhi in Parliament to understand the Congress party's position on the proposed Delimitation Bill. The meeting comes amid indications that the Centre is seeking wider political consultations before moving ahead with the legislation.

The discussion took place even as both Houses of Parliament continued to face repeated disruptions during the ongoing Monsoon Session.

Opposition Continues Protest

Leaders of the INDIA bloc, including Rahul Gandhi, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and several Opposition MPs, marched from the Gandhi statue to Makar Dwar inside the Parliament complex, raising slogans against the government.

The Opposition demanded answers over the alleged Ram Mandir donation theft and sought a statement from Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Parliament. Opposition parties also protested over the police action against demonstrators at Jantar Mantar on July 20, alleging excessive use of force.

Congress MP KC Venugopal accused the government of avoiding a discussion on issues raised by the Opposition and reiterated the party's demand for a debate in Parliament. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also called for accountability over the action taken against protesting students, saying those responsible for ordering the use of force should be identified.

Lok Sabha Adjourned Amid Uproar

The Lok Sabha convened at 11 am but was adjourned within minutes due to continuous protests by Opposition members. Proceedings resumed later in the afternoon before the House was eventually adjourned for the day.

Meanwhile, the Rajya Sabha continued legislative business despite intermittent disruptions. The Upper House took up discussion on the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026, introduced by Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal.

Rajya Sabha Debates Judicial Reforms

Members across party lines supported increasing the strength of Supreme Court judges, while also highlighting broader concerns relating to judicial reforms.

AAP MP Sanjay Singh drew attention to the large number of pending court cases and argued that increasing the number of judges alone would not solve delays unless judicial infrastructure was also strengthened.

DMK MP P. Wilson advocated the establishment of regional benches of the Supreme Court, arguing that litigants from southern states continue to face difficulties in accessing justice due to the court's location in New Delhi.

JMM MP Mahua Maji stressed the need for broader reforms in the justice delivery system, while BJP MP Kesridevsinh Jhala described the proposed legislation as a necessary step to improve judicial efficiency.

Political Exchanges Continue

Outside Parliament, BJP and Opposition leaders exchanged sharp criticism over multiple issues.

BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj accused Rahul Gandhi of pursuing "politics based on allegations" and questioned the Congress party's stand on student-related issues.

Congress leaders, on the other hand, maintained that the government was avoiding discussions on issues raised by the Opposition, including the alleged donation theft case and recent protests.

Centre Pushes Political Outreach

The meeting between Kiren Rijiju and Rahul Gandhi is being viewed as part of the government's outreach to Opposition parties ahead of the proposed Delimitation Bill.

While details of the discussion were not officially disclosed, Congress sources said the minister sought to understand the party's views on the legislation before any further parliamentary steps.

With both legislative business and political protests continuing simultaneously, Parliament's Monsoon Session remains marked by frequent disruptions alongside negotiations on key pending Bills.

Bhopal: Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra remained absent from a crucial party meeting held on Tuesday to review the BJP's defeat in the Datia Assembly by-election, sparking fresh political speculation over his role in the electoral setback and his future position within the party.

The review meeting was held at the residence of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav in Bhopal, a day after the BJP lost the Datia Assembly seat to the Congress. In the bypoll, Congress candidate Ghanshyam Singh defeated BJP nominee Ashutosh Tiwari by a margin of 6,016 votes, handing the ruling party an unexpected setback in one of its high-profile electoral contests.

The Datia by-election had become a prestige battle for the BJP, with the party deploying several senior leaders during the campaign. More than a dozen ministers, including a Deputy Chief Minister, six Members of Parliament and several senior organisational leaders, campaigned extensively in an effort to retain the constituency.

Narottam Mishra's absence from the meeting drew considerable attention, particularly because he was reportedly present in Bhopal when the review was held. Mishra, who had represented Datia multiple times and was once considered the BJP's strongest face in the constituency, was denied the party ticket for the by-election. The decision had triggered disappointment among many of his supporters during the candidate selection process.

According to party sources, Mishra was not invited to the review meeting, a development that has fuelled speculation within political circles. Some BJP leaders believe the leadership is also evaluating whether dissatisfaction among Mishra's supporters after the denial of his ticket may have influenced the election outcome.

A senior BJP leader, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the absence of Narottam Mishra from the review meeting has naturally raised questions because of his long association with Datia politics. According to the leader, the reactions of his supporters following the party's ticket distribution are also expected to be examined during the internal review.

When contacted regarding his absence, Narottam Mishra declined to comment on the matter.

Following the meeting, senior BJP leader VD Sharma and State BJP President Hemant Khandelwal addressed the media. While Khandelwal did not directly respond to questions regarding Mishra's absence, he announced that the party would constitute a two-member committee to conduct a detailed assessment of the reasons behind the bypoll defeat.

The committee is expected to interact with local party workers, district leaders and election management teams before submitting its findings to the state leadership. The review is likely to examine multiple aspects of the campaign, including candidate selection, booth-level management, voter turnout and organisational coordination.

Political observers believe the Datia result carries significance because the BJP had invested considerable organisational and political resources into the constituency. Despite an intensive campaign involving senior ministers and top leaders, the party failed to retain the seat, prompting the leadership to initiate a comprehensive review.

The Congress, meanwhile, described the bypoll victory as a reflection of public support for its campaign and local leadership. The result has added a new dimension to the political landscape in Madhya Pradesh, where both the BJP and the Congress are expected to closely analyse the verdict ahead of future electoral contests.

The BJP leadership is expected to review the findings of the proposed committee before deciding on any organisational or political measures related to the Datia by-election.