The post Opposition Moves No-Confidence Motion Against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>The opposition has leveled serious allegations against the Speaker, primarily focusing on the suppression of the Leader of the Opposition’s voice during the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address and the forced suspension of eight members. In response to these developments, sources indicate that Om Birla has decided on ethical grounds not to occupy the Speaker’s chair until the matter is resolved.
The Lok Sabha Secretariat has confirmed that proceedings will follow established rules. The notice was handed over to Secretary General Utpal Kumar Singh by a delegation including Congress Deputy Leader Gaurav Gogoi, Chief Whip K. Suresh, and MP Mohammad Javed, among others. While members from the Congress, SP, DMK, and RJD have signed the notice, notable absences include the signatures of Rahul Gandhi and members of the TMC.
Four Major Allegations by the Opposition:
* February 2: Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi was allegedly prevented from completing his speech during the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address.
* February 3: Eight MPs were suspended for the remainder of the session, a move the opposition describes as punishment for exercising democratic rights.
* Nishikant Dubey Case: The notice mentions objectionable remarks made against former Prime Ministers without naming Nishikant Dubey.
* Misuse of Office: The opposition rejected the Speaker’s claim that Congress members intended to cause an “untoward incident” near the Prime Minister’s seat, calling such accusations a blatant misuse of a constitutional position.
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]]>The post Strict Crackdown on Cyber Fraud, Says Amit Shah appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>Shah was addressing a conference organized with the support of the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre. He stated that the mule account detection system developed by the ministry should be adopted by all banks to prevent misuse of financial channels by criminals.
Highlighting the growing threat, the Home Minister said that in the country one person falls victim to cyber fraud every 37 seconds. On average, about 90 individuals are cheated every hour. As digital transactions continue to rise rapidly, the risk associated with cyber crimes is also increasing. He noted that these crimes are emerging in an organized manner and criminals are adopting new technologies, making collective action essential.
Shah also instructed police officials to ensure adequate staffing at the 1930 cyber helpline call centers so that complaints can be handled promptly and effectively.
In a separate development, the central government has tightened regulations for social media platforms. Under the new rules, any photo or video created using artificial intelligence must carry a clear label indicating that it is AI generated. If any unlawful or misleading content is uploaded on these platforms, companies will be required to remove it within three hours of receiving information about it.
The new regulations will come into effect from February 20. Non compliance may invite strict action and financial penalties. The government stated that these measures aim to enhance transparency, prevent misuse of technology and strengthen the country’s cyber security framework.
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]]>The post No Concern Over 500 Billion Dollar Imports From US in Five Years, Says Piyush Goyal appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>Speaking in New Delhi, Goyal explained that India currently imports goods worth nearly 300 billion dollars from the US. With steady economic expansion, this figure could rise significantly in the coming years. He stated that India’s economy is expected to create demand worth nearly two trillion dollars, making higher imports manageable. He assured that while India welcomes trade, it will remain competitive in the global market.
Goyal emphasized that adequate safeguards have been incorporated in the trade understanding with the United States to protect the interests of Indian farmers and domestic industries. He said that the government has carefully negotiated the terms to ensure that sensitive sectors are not adversely affected.
Referring to the livestock and poultry sectors, the minister noted that India has agreed to certain tariff rate quotas for products such as corn based animal feed, also known as DDGS. He said this decision would strengthen the poultry and animal husbandry sectors by ensuring access to quality feed at competitive prices.
Goyal added that India is negotiating trade agreements with confidence and strength. He pointed out that India could access a market worth 35 trillion dollars in the future through such partnerships. According to him, the objective of these agreements is to expand opportunities for Indian goods and services globally.
The minister further stated that Indian farmers are already exporting agricultural products worth 50 to 55 billion dollars. With improved access to international markets, including the United States, farmers are expected to benefit from better prices and higher demand. He highlighted that Indian products will gain a competitive advantage in the American market, especially when compared with countries that face higher tariffs.
Meanwhile, political reactions have also emerged. Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar said that the India US trade understanding would boost economic development and create new employment opportunities for youth. He remarked that the agreement was finalized after detailed discussions and careful consideration.
On the other hand, the Communist Party of India Marxist expressed concern, alleging that the agreement could pose risks to the country’s economic sovereignty. The party claimed that excessive concessions may have been granted to the United States. In response, the Prime Minister’s Office clarified that national interests remain paramount in all trade negotiations.
Overall, the government maintains that the proposed expansion in trade with the United States will strengthen India’s economy, generate jobs, support farmers, and safeguard domestic industries while enhancing India’s position in global markets.
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]]>The post No Import Duty on 44 Billion Dollar US Exports to India Says Piyush Goyal appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>Goyal explained that around 30 billion dollars worth of Indian goods exported to the United States will continue to face an average tariff of 18 percent, which includes labour-intensive products. However, nearly 12 billion dollars worth of Indian exports, including some agricultural items, will see no change in the existing duty structure.
He further stated that commodities such as steel, aluminium, copper and automobile components are currently subject to uniform tariffs across countries. The United States imposes up to 50 percent duty on these items, but this was introduced as an interim measure. India expects these rates to be reviewed and adjusted in the first phase of the upcoming bilateral trade agreement.
The minister highlighted that the government aims to ensure balanced trade growth while protecting domestic industries. He added that the proposed trade framework will help improve market access and strengthen economic ties between the two nations.
No Import Duty on These Products
According to the minister, agricultural products including meat, poultry, dairy products, apples, tree nuts, soya meal, oilseeds, grains, maize, barley, fruits such as bananas and berries, dry fruits, pulses, chickpeas, lentils, pet food, honey and malt will not attract import duty.
India–US Trade Measures to Protect Domestic Industry
Goyal clarified that India remains firm on safeguarding its farmers and micro, small and medium enterprises. He said India will continue to raise concerns at international forums against unfair trade practices and dumping. The country’s approach is to strengthen its manufacturing base while maintaining fair competition.
Boeing and Airbus Orders to Increase
The commerce minister noted that India is likely to increase aircraft purchases from Boeing and Airbus in the future. He said several Indian airlines have already held discussions with the top management of both companies regarding fleet expansion and long-term supply arrangements.
Quota-Based Duty Relief on Apples
Under the proposed trade arrangement, India will provide quota-based duty concessions on apples imported from the United States. Imports beyond the quota limit will attract a 25 percent duty. The quota will be capped at 80,000 metric tonnes annually.
On Tariff Parity
Responding to a query, Goyal said that zero-duty access under the agreement would improve India’s competitiveness in the US market. He pointed out that while the per capita income in the United States is around 90,000 dollars, India’s per capita income stands close to 3,000 dollars, making balanced trade policies essential.
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]]>The post India–US Trade Corridor Gets a Boost as Both Nations Finalise Trade Readiness appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>Under the proposed arrangement, the United States is expected to reduce import duties on several Indian products. Tariffs on select categories are likely to be lowered from the existing levels of around 50 percent to nearly 18 percent, significantly improving the competitiveness of Indian goods in the American market. In return, India will rationalise duties on a range of US industrial and agricultural imports in line with global trade practices.
The agreement is projected to open an export opportunity worth nearly 30 billion dollars for India. Sectors such as generic pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, ready-made garments, leather goods, footwear, machinery, handicrafts, plastics and rubber products are expected to benefit directly. Agricultural and food items including tea, coffee, spices, fruits, soyabean oil, animal feed, dairy inputs and processed food products are also likely to gain from improved access and lower duties.
Government sources indicated that care has been taken to ensure that the interests of Indian farmers and the domestic agriculture sector are protected. No provision in the understanding is expected to adversely impact dairy or core farming activities. The focus remains on expanding exports while maintaining food security and supporting rural livelihoods.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the framework would deepen investment and technology partnerships between the two countries and create new opportunities for farmers, workers and entrepreneurs. He added that the initiative aligns with the Make in India vision and would contribute to job creation and long-term economic growth.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath described the development as a major achievement under India’s current leadership, stating that it would enhance India’s global standing as a reliable manufacturing and export hub while safeguarding national interests.
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]]>The post India’s Youth Brigade Crowned World Champions Once Again appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>Batting first in the final, India posted an extraordinary total of 411 runs for nine wickets, the highest team score ever recorded in an Under-19 World Cup final. The innings was headlined by a sensational knock of 175 runs by Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who displayed maturity beyond his years. His innings included powerful stroke play, with 150 of his runs coming from boundaries, including 15 fours and 15 sixes. He reached his century in just 55 deliveries, setting a new benchmark in the tournament’s history.
England struggled to cope with the pressure of the chase and were bowled out for 311 runs. Despite their efforts, the English batters were unable to match the intensity and discipline shown by the Indian bowlers, leading to a comprehensive Indian victory.
With this triumph, India lifted the Under-19 World Cup trophy once again, having previously won the title in 2000 under Mohammad Kaif, in 2008 under Virat Kohli, in 2012 under Unmukt Chand, in 2018 under Prithvi Shaw, and in 2022 under Yash Dhull. The latest win further strengthens India’s legacy in youth cricket.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s exceptional tournament earned him the Player of the Match award in the final and the Player of the Series honour. He finished the tournament with a record-breaking 439 runs, the highest by any player in a single Under-19 World Cup edition, along with a wicket to his name.
Following the victory, celebrations erupted across the country as fans hailed the young champions. The Prime Minister also congratulated the team, praising their skill, discipline, and fearless approach, and stated that the nation is proud of the Under-19 squad for bringing glory to India once again.
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]]>The post Minor Cannot Be Forced Into Motherhood Says Supreme Court appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>The ruling came while hearing the case of a 17 year old girl who was 30 weeks pregnant. The court allowed medical termination of the pregnancy under strict medical supervision, noting that forcing a minor to carry a pregnancy would violate her personal liberty and bodily autonomy.
A bench comprising Justice B V Nagarathna and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan underlined that reproductive choices are a fundamental aspect of personal dignity.
The judges said that a woman’s consent is central to decisions related to pregnancy, and courts cannot override that choice, especially when the pregnant individual is a minor facing physical and emotional distress.
The court examined the medical board’s report, which stated that termination at this stage would not pose a serious threat to the life of the girl if conducted under expert medical care. Taking this into account, the bench permitted the procedure at a government hospital in Mumbai, ensuring that all necessary safeguards would be followed.
The judges further clarified that the legality of the pregnancy, whether it resulted from consensual relations or otherwise, is not the primary issue in such cases. What matters is the well being of the minor and her clear unwillingness to continue the pregnancy. The court reiterated that no girl should be forced into motherhood simply because the pregnancy has crossed a certain duration.
This judgment reinforces the principle that reproductive freedom and consent are essential rights, and minors deserve special protection under the law when facing such life altering situations.
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]]>The post India Reaffirms Energy Security Priority Amid Claims on Russian Oil Purchases appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India’s energy decisions are firmly guided by national interest, particularly the need to ensure reliable and affordable energy for its population of 1.4 billion.
Jaiswal said the government has repeatedly stated that energy security is a supreme priority and added that India’s strategy focuses on diversifying its energy sources in line with objective market conditions and changing international realities. He emphasised that all decisions related to energy sourcing are taken with this principle in mind.
Trump made the remarks following the announcement of a bilateral trade agreement between India and the United States. In a social media post, he claimed that India had agreed to stop buying Russian oil and would instead increase purchases from the US and potentially Venezuela, linking the move to efforts to end the Russia Ukraine conflict.
While Prime Minister Narendra Modi later confirmed the trade agreement, no official statement was issued by the Indian government regarding any decision to discontinue Russian oil imports.
Responding to questions on Venezuela, Jaiswal said India remains open to sourcing oil from any country based on commercial viability. He noted that India has a long standing partnership with Venezuela and would continue to make energy decisions guided by economic considerations.
The India US trade agreement was announced earlier this week, with tariffs on Indian goods reportedly reduced from 50 per cent to 18 per cent. Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said the final agreement is in its concluding stages, a view echoed by US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, who said the deal was still being finalised. A joint statement detailing the agreement is expected soon.
Russia also reacted to the developments, with Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Vladimirovna Zakharova saying there was no indication that India would reconsider its energy cooperation with Moscow. She said the trade in energy resources benefits both countries and contributes to stability in global energy markets.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said India has always sourced oil from multiple suppliers and that Russia is not the country’s sole energy partner, adding that there was nothing unusual in India’s diversified procurement approach.
Separately, Goyal reiterated the government’s position, once again stressing that energy security for 1.4 billion Indians remains paramount and that diversification based on market conditions and evolving global dynamics is central to India’s energy strategy.
The remarks come as External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visits the United States to attend the Critical Minerals Ministerial hosted by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Jaishankar said his meetings included an extensive review of bilateral cooperation, along with discussions on the Indo Pacific, West Asia, Gaza and the Ukraine conflict.
At the Critical Minerals meeting, the External Affairs Minister also expressed India’s support for the FORGE initiative, aimed at strengthening resource security and geostrategic engagement.
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]]>The post PM Modi Targets Congress Over Electoral Losses, Reaffirms Vision for Developed India by 2047 appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>Replying to the debate on the Motion of Thanks to the President’s Address in the Lok Sabha, the Prime Minister expressed regret over the disruption caused by Opposition members. He said such behaviour was not only an insult to the President of India, a poor tribal woman, but also a slight against the highest constitutional office and the Constitution itself.
Modi strongly criticised Rahul Gandhi’s remark describing Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu as a traitor, calling it an insult to the entire Sikh community. He said such language reflected the Opposition’s inability to engage in constructive debate.
Targeting the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress in West Bengal, the Prime Minister accused the party of shielding infiltrators, alleging that their presence was depriving local youth of employment opportunities and encroaching upon tribal land rights.
Referring to slogans raised by Opposition leaders, Modi said those who claim to run a campaign of love were simultaneously using language filled with hatred. He asserted that despite repeated attempts, his political opponents would never succeed in undermining him.
The Prime Minister said personal abuse directed at him stemmed from the inability of some leaders to accept that someone from a humble background could hold and continue to serve in the country’s highest executive office. He alleged that the Congress leadership viewed the post of Prime Minister as a family entitlement.
Modi said he drew strength from the blessings of crores of mothers, sisters and poor citizens across the country, for whom he claimed to be working with dedication. He contrasted his government’s approach with that of the Congress, saying his administration treated citizens as the nation’s strength and solution rather than as problems.
Highlighting the achievements of the past 11 years, the Prime Minister said India’s sustained high growth and controlled inflation reflected the resilience of the economy, which he said was on track to become the world’s third-largest.
He also referred to recent trade engagements with the European Union and the United States, stating that global confidence in India had increased and that these developments contributed to greater international stability.
Describing India as being on a fast track of reform, Modi said the country was moving steadily towards its goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047. During his nearly 100-minute address, he countered Opposition criticism of his government’s welfare schemes and reiterated his commitment to the vision of Viksit Bharat.
The Prime Minister also said India had emerged as a strong and credible voice of the Global South, playing a key role in shaping international discourse.
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]]>The post Maharashtra Council Panel Reschedules Hearing for Kunal Kamra and Sushma Andhare appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>Both Kamra and Andhare were earlier asked to appear before the committee at 2 pm on February 5. However, after they conveyed their inability to attend on the scheduled date, the panel decided to defer the hearing, according to committee chairperson and BJP MLC Prasad Lad.
Lad said Kamra formally informed the committee on Wednesday that he would not be able to appear on February 5. Following this communication, a fresh summons was issued asking him to depose on February 17. The hearing for Andhare was also rescheduled to the same date after she cited her preoccupation with campaigning for the upcoming Zilla Parishad elections.
The chairperson added that Nationalist Congress Party Sharadchandra Pawar faction worker Suryakant More, who was summoned over alleged remarks against Legislative Council chairman Ram Shinde, was also unable to attend his hearing on February 4 due to severe traffic congestion on the Mumbai Pune Expressway. He has now been asked to appear before the committee on February 16.
Lad said the privileges committee is required to offer three mandatory opportunities for hearing and all three individuals missed the first scheduled appearance. He warned that failure to comply with two summons could prompt the committee to decide on further action.
According to Lad, there is a prima facie case against Kamra and Andhare for insulting the Deputy Chief Minister. He said that once they appear before the panel, video clips related to the alleged remarks will be shown to them and the proceedings will be officially recorded.
The breach of privilege notice was moved by BJP MLC Pravin Darekar, who accused Kamra and Andhare of making derogatory comments against Shinde, whose Shiv Sena faction is part of the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance.
Background of the Controversy
The controversy dates back to a performance by Kamra last year in which he targeted Eknath Shinde through a parody song, indirectly referring to him as a traitor. The performance reportedly used a modified version of a Hindi song from the film Dil To Pagal Hai to comment on Shinde’s 2022 rebellion against then Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray.
Sushma Andhare publicly supported Kamra following the performance, drawing criticism from the ruling alliance. After the show at a hotel in Mumbai’s Khar area, a group of Shiv Sena workers allegedly vandalised the venue.
Shinde’s rebellion in June 2022 led to a split in the Shiv Sena and resulted in the collapse of the Maha Vikas Aghadi government, triggering prolonged political and legal disputes in Maharashtra.
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