‘Thiruparankundram pillar is Jain, not Hindu’: Tamil Nadu govt tells HC; cites archaeological texts and Digambara practices

‘Thiruparankundram pillar is Jain, not Hindu’: Tamil Nadu govt tells HC; cites archaeological texts and Digambara practices

The Tamil Nadu government informed the Madras High Court that a stone pillar atop Thiruparankundram hill was built by Jain saints, not Hindus, citing archaeological evidence. The court is hearing appeals regarding lighting Karthigai Deepam at the pillar, with arguments also presented by a dargah’s counsel challenging the pillar’s designation as a lamp post. MADURAI:…

Read More
GATE scorecards 2025 released at goaps.iitr.ac.in: Direct link to download  here

GATE scorecards 2025 released at goaps.iitr.ac.in: Direct link to download here

GATE 2025 scorecards out today: Get yours on gate2025.iitr.ac.in The Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati has released the scorecards for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) exam 2026 on the official website, gate2026.iitg.ac.in. Candidates who have taken the exam can visit the official website to download the scorecards. The GATE exam was held on…

Read More
Malhar Thakar and Puja Joshi celebrate one year of D-Day with a Bali getaway- See pics

Malhar Thakar and Puja Joshi celebrate one year of D-Day with a Bali getaway- See pics

Malhar Thakar and actress Puja Joshi, two of the most celebrated stars in the Dhollywood industry, have won hearts both on-screen and off-screen. Last year, the couple tied the knot in a grand wedding ceremony attended by several well-known Gujarati cinema celebrities. Their wedding announcement also took social media by storm. Malhar and Puja’s romantic…

Read More
University of California continues its policy of annual tuition hikes, despite growing student opposition

University of California continues its policy of annual tuition hikes, despite growing student opposition

UCLA students march outside a meeting of the University of California Board of Regents in Los Angeles, to protest the system’s plan to continue annual tuition increases, Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025. (Mikhail Zinshteyn/CalMatters via AP) The University of California has restored its policy of annual tuition increases after the UC Board of Regents voted 13-3…

Read More
After six years halt, India-China trade via Lipulekh Pass set to restart

After six years halt, India-China trade via Lipulekh Pass set to restart

Border trade between India and China through the Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand’s Pithoragarh district will resume this year after remaining suspended for six years, officials said, according to PTI.District Magistrate Ashish Bhatgai said preparations have been initiated following directions from the Union government for the trade session, which typically runs between June and September. The…

Read More
Zoho founder Sridhar Vembu explains: There are two kinds of engineering R&D, and we need…

Zoho founder Sridhar Vembu explains: There are two kinds of engineering R&D, and we need…

Zoho’s co-founder Sridhar Vembu highlighted two R&D approaches: catching up and advancing technology, both needing patience and investment. This comes as Zoho shelved its $700 million chipmaking plan due to tech confidence issues. Meanwhile, India is aggressively pursuing semiconductor manufacturing, aiming for global parity by 2032 with significant government backing and industry participation. Zoho co-founder…

Read More
‘Smiling Buddha’ at 52: Test that announced India’s nuclear arrival to the world

‘Smiling Buddha’ at 52: Test that announced India’s nuclear arrival to the world

Fifty-two years ago, India detonated a nuclear device in Rajasthan’s Thar desert, codenamed ‘Smiling Buddha’. This event, coinciding with Buddha Purnima, marked India’s entry into the nuclear club. Despite being officially termed a ‘peaceful nuclear explosion’, the test ignited debate and reshaped India’s global standing, demonstrating scientific self-reliance and announcing strategic intent. NEW DELHI: On…

Read More
Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal wanted to pull each other’s hair out three years into relationship: ‘We took couples therapy’

Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal wanted to pull each other’s hair out three years into relationship: ‘We took couples therapy’

Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal are the internet’s most loved couple. The pair share plenty of sweet moments, whether it’s glimpses from their day-to-day married life, fun travel vlogs, or candid behind-the-scenes snaps. But behind all the smiles and social media posts, their journey hasn’t always been smooth. The couple have been together for eight…

Read More
Manoj Bajpayee confirms The Family Man Season 4; reveals he struggles to understand Gen Z slang, ‘Nihayati aalsi log’

Manoj Bajpayee confirms The Family Man Season 4; reveals he struggles to understand Gen Z slang, ‘Nihayati aalsi log’

Manoj Bajpayee has returned as Srikant Tiwari in the much-awaited The Family Man Season 3, which premiered on November 21, 2025, on Amazon Prime Video. Since its release, the spy-thriller has received glowing reviews from both critics and the audience. Amid the excitement, the actor has now confirmed that the show will indeed return with…

Read More
Hrithik Roshan’s two firms buy 10 office units in Mumbai for Rs 28 crore, days after parents and sister purchase properties worth over Rs 25 crore – Report

Hrithik Roshan’s two firms buy 10 office units in Mumbai for Rs 28 crore, days after parents and sister purchase properties worth over Rs 25 crore – Report

The Roshan family appears to be on a serious buying streak in Mumbai’s property market. In their latest move, Hrithik Roshan’s two family-owned firms have snapped up 10 office units in Andheri West, adding fresh buzz to their growing list of commercial investments. Roshan family seen expanding commercial property According to property registration documents accessed…

Read More
Oman announces fireworks display in Muscat for Sultan Haitham’s accession anniversary | World News

Oman announces fireworks display in Muscat for Sultan Haitham’s accession anniversary | World News

Oman announces Muscat fireworks at Al Khoudh Dam on Sunday, January 11, starting 8 PM sharp/Representative Image The General Secretariat of National Celebrations has officially announced a grand fireworks display in Muscat to mark the anniversary of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik’s Accession to the Throne. The event will take place tomorrow, January 11,…

Read More
. NEW DELHI: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Thursday took suo motu cognisance of the death of a 27-year-old software engineer who drowned after his SUV fell into a waterlogged trench at a commercial site in Greater Noida. The tribunal observed that the incident indicates serious environmental violations and regulatory lapses.The tribunal also highlighted that the land where the accident occurred had originally been allotted for a private mall project but, over the years, had turned into a pond due to unchecked accumulation of rainwater and discharge of wastewater from nearby housing societies, news agency ANI reported.Taking note of a media report on the incident, the NGT said that the transformation of the commercial plot into a waterbody raised questions over land-use violations, environmental degradation and the failure of authorities to prevent hazardous conditions at the site.The case relates to the death of Yuvraj Mehta, a software engineer and resident of Sector 150, Greater Noida, whose car plunged into a nearly 30-foot-deep, water-filled pit near ATS Le Grandiose in the early hours of January 17 amid dense fog and poor visibility.According to the post-mortem report, Mehta died due to asphyxiation and cardiac failure. Trapped in the icy water, he struggled to survive for nearly 90 minutes. He managed to climb onto the roof of his sinking vehicle, flashed his mobile phone’s torch repeatedly and called his father in a desperate attempt to seek help.Rescue operations involving the police, fire brigade, SDRF and NDRF were launched but were severely hampered by near-zero visibility, deep water and inadequate equipment. A delivery worker who reached the spot jumped into the trench in an attempt to save Mehta but was unable to locate him. His body was recovered around 4.30 am.An FIR has been registered against the builders responsible for the open pit, citing serious negligence, including the absence of barricading, fencing and reflectors at the accident-prone turn. Show-cause notices have also been issued to officials responsible for traffic management in the area.In a significant development, the director of Wiztown Planners, Abhay Kumar, was arrested on Tuesday. Police said the commercial plot where the trench existed was in the possession of the company. Kumar has been booked under sections related to culpable homicide not amounting to murder, causing death by negligence, and acts endangering human life.Following public outrage and protests by residents, the Uttar Pradesh government constituted a special investigation team (SIT) to probe the incident. The Noida Authority’s CEO was removed, and inspections of construction-site safety measures were ordered.The SIT has begun recording statements of officials, developers and eyewitnesses and is examining the role of civic agencies, road safety arrangements and compliance with construction and environmental norms.Residents have alleged that repeated warnings about the dangerous condition of the site were ignored. Barricades were installed only after protests and a candle march demanding justice for Mehta.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIAS Officer Sanjeev Khirwar, Who Was Shunted Out Over Dog Walk Row, Returns As Delhi MCD Chief1984 Anti-Sikh Riots: Delhi Court Acquits Ex-Congress MP Sajjan Kumar In Vikaspuri, Janakpuri Case‘Our Neighbour Did Incredibly Well’: India Tech Funding Question Puts Pak Minister On Spot In Davos’India’s Growth Faces Bigger Risk From Pollution Than Trump Tariffs’, Says IMF’s Gita GopinathItaly Says India-EU FTA Is About Trust, Talent And Technology, Not Just Tariffs For Global GrowthAt Davos, Pakistan Seeks More Funds, PM Sharif Calls For Reforms, While His FM Admit Misuse of DebtProtest Held Outside UK Parliament Demanding Labour Govt To Press Bangladesh Over Hindu PersecutionIndia To Grow 6 To 8% In Real Terms In Next 5 Years: Ashwini Vaishnaw At DavosIndia Pushes Urgent Security Council Reform At UN, Says Status Quo Is Fueling Conflict And Misery’China Had A Free Pass, India Won’t’: Sunil Mittal Explains Why India Will Still Win Global Trade123Photostories’Border’, ‘Rang De Basanti’, ‘Delhi 6’: Famous Bollywood movies shot in Rajasthan you may not have known aboutThe 50: From a royal entrance to classy bedrooms- A glimpse of the house where the contestants are going to stayHow songs like ‘Exotic’, ‘Tum Kya Mile’ and ‘Desi Girl’ turned Bollywood into a runway of iconic style momentsWith ‘Toxic’ marking Kiara Advani’s Kannada debut, more Bollywood actors step into South Indian cinema in 2026- Here’s what you need to knowDelhi underground marvel: Pulbangash-Sadar bazaar tunnel in action10 desi Indian dishes among Top 100 Potato Dishes in the worldTaylor Swift’s best movie cameos that stole every scene: ‘Hannah Montana: The Movie’, ‘The Lorax’, and moreBengaluru’s traffic woes go global: City ranks 2nd, Pune 5th most congested5 Best period-drama series to stream now on Apple TV+5 times your soul knows the truth long before your mind accepts it123Hot PicksBoard of PeaceBudget 2026Budget 2026 ExpectationsGold price predictionBengaluru AirportPublic holidays January 2026Bank Holidays JanuaryTop TrendingAbhishek SharmaTyler Glasnow Net WorthAaron Judge and Samantha Bracksiecks Age DifferenceJuan Soto Net WorthNico Hoerner Net WorthGiannis AntetokounmpoIBPS RRB PO Mains ResultJosh Allen InjuryFortnite Down V39.30 UpdateDrake Maye

. NEW DELHI: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Thursday took suo motu cognisance of the death of a 27-year-old software engineer who drowned after his SUV fell into a waterlogged trench at a commercial site in Greater Noida. The tribunal observed that the incident indicates serious environmental violations and regulatory lapses.The tribunal also highlighted that the land where the accident occurred had originally been allotted for a private mall project but, over the years, had turned into a pond due to unchecked accumulation of rainwater and discharge of wastewater from nearby housing societies, news agency ANI reported.Taking note of a media report on the incident, the NGT said that the transformation of the commercial plot into a waterbody raised questions over land-use violations, environmental degradation and the failure of authorities to prevent hazardous conditions at the site.The case relates to the death of Yuvraj Mehta, a software engineer and resident of Sector 150, Greater Noida, whose car plunged into a nearly 30-foot-deep, water-filled pit near ATS Le Grandiose in the early hours of January 17 amid dense fog and poor visibility.According to the post-mortem report, Mehta died due to asphyxiation and cardiac failure. Trapped in the icy water, he struggled to survive for nearly 90 minutes. He managed to climb onto the roof of his sinking vehicle, flashed his mobile phone’s torch repeatedly and called his father in a desperate attempt to seek help.Rescue operations involving the police, fire brigade, SDRF and NDRF were launched but were severely hampered by near-zero visibility, deep water and inadequate equipment. A delivery worker who reached the spot jumped into the trench in an attempt to save Mehta but was unable to locate him. His body was recovered around 4.30 am.An FIR has been registered against the builders responsible for the open pit, citing serious negligence, including the absence of barricading, fencing and reflectors at the accident-prone turn. Show-cause notices have also been issued to officials responsible for traffic management in the area.In a significant development, the director of Wiztown Planners, Abhay Kumar, was arrested on Tuesday. Police said the commercial plot where the trench existed was in the possession of the company. Kumar has been booked under sections related to culpable homicide not amounting to murder, causing death by negligence, and acts endangering human life.Following public outrage and protests by residents, the Uttar Pradesh government constituted a special investigation team (SIT) to probe the incident. The Noida Authority’s CEO was removed, and inspections of construction-site safety measures were ordered.The SIT has begun recording statements of officials, developers and eyewitnesses and is examining the role of civic agencies, road safety arrangements and compliance with construction and environmental norms.Residents have alleged that repeated warnings about the dangerous condition of the site were ignored. Barricades were installed only after protests and a candle march demanding justice for Mehta.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIAS Officer Sanjeev Khirwar, Who Was Shunted Out Over Dog Walk Row, Returns As Delhi MCD Chief1984 Anti-Sikh Riots: Delhi Court Acquits Ex-Congress MP Sajjan Kumar In Vikaspuri, Janakpuri Case‘Our Neighbour Did Incredibly Well’: India Tech Funding Question Puts Pak Minister On Spot In Davos’India’s Growth Faces Bigger Risk From Pollution Than Trump Tariffs’, Says IMF’s Gita GopinathItaly Says India-EU FTA Is About Trust, Talent And Technology, Not Just Tariffs For Global GrowthAt Davos, Pakistan Seeks More Funds, PM Sharif Calls For Reforms, While His FM Admit Misuse of DebtProtest Held Outside UK Parliament Demanding Labour Govt To Press Bangladesh Over Hindu PersecutionIndia To Grow 6 To 8% In Real Terms In Next 5 Years: Ashwini Vaishnaw At DavosIndia Pushes Urgent Security Council Reform At UN, Says Status Quo Is Fueling Conflict And Misery’China Had A Free Pass, India Won’t’: Sunil Mittal Explains Why India Will Still Win Global Trade123Photostories’Border’, ‘Rang De Basanti’, ‘Delhi 6’: Famous Bollywood movies shot in Rajasthan you may not have known aboutThe 50: From a royal entrance to classy bedrooms- A glimpse of the house where the contestants are going to stayHow songs like ‘Exotic’, ‘Tum Kya Mile’ and ‘Desi Girl’ turned Bollywood into a runway of iconic style momentsWith ‘Toxic’ marking Kiara Advani’s Kannada debut, more Bollywood actors step into South Indian cinema in 2026- Here’s what you need to knowDelhi underground marvel: Pulbangash-Sadar bazaar tunnel in action10 desi Indian dishes among Top 100 Potato Dishes in the worldTaylor Swift’s best movie cameos that stole every scene: ‘Hannah Montana: The Movie’, ‘The Lorax’, and moreBengaluru’s traffic woes go global: City ranks 2nd, Pune 5th most congested5 Best period-drama series to stream now on Apple TV+5 times your soul knows the truth long before your mind accepts it123Hot PicksBoard of PeaceBudget 2026Budget 2026 ExpectationsGold price predictionBengaluru AirportPublic holidays January 2026Bank Holidays JanuaryTop TrendingAbhishek SharmaTyler Glasnow Net WorthAaron Judge and Samantha Bracksiecks Age DifferenceJuan Soto Net WorthNico Hoerner Net WorthGiannis AntetokounmpoIBPS RRB PO Mains ResultJosh Allen InjuryFortnite Down V39.30 UpdateDrake Maye

NEW DELHI: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Thursday took suo motu cognisance of the death of a 27-year-old software engineer who drowned after his SUV fell into a waterlogged trench at a commercial site in Greater Noida. The tribunal observed that the incident indicates serious environmental violations and regulatory lapses.The tribunal also highlighted that…

Read More
Weekly Egyptian Horoscope, December 8-14, 2025: Vibrational shifts shake the foundation; these zodiac signs must stabilise

Weekly Egyptian Horoscope, December 8-14, 2025: Vibrational shifts shake the foundation; these zodiac signs must stabilise

Step into the rhythm of the ancient Nile, where each week carries the breath of forgotten temples and timeless truths. Egyptian astrology weaves the power of divine forces, like Ra, Isis, Thoth, and Ma’at, into your modern journey. These sacred energies don’t just predict; they guide, protect, and awaken. As the week unfolds, tune into…

Read More
Singapore safely detonates massive 250kg WWII bomb near airport without disrupting flights | World News

Singapore safely detonates massive 250kg WWII bomb near airport without disrupting flights | World News

Singapore authorities safely detonated a 250kg World War II aerial bomb near Changi Airport overnight without disruption/ Image: Ministry of Defence, Singapore (MINDEF) A 250kg World War II-era aerial bomb discovered at a construction site near Changi Airport has been safely disposed of following a carefully coordinated overnight operation involving multiple Singapore agencies, with authorities…

Read More
– NEW DELHI: The special session of Parliament on Thursday is set for a heated debate as three key bills — the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, the Delimitation Bill, 2026, and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, including a proposal to implement women’s reservation from the 2029 Lok Sabha elections and a controversial delimitation exercise are to be tabled. Opposition parties have strongly objected to the plan to redraw constituencies and increase the number of seats in the Lok Sabha.Opposition stanceWhile opposition leaders have strongly opposed and criticised the Delimitation Bill, they have expressed support in principle for the women’s reservation proposal, raising concerns over its implementation and timing. Tamil Nadu chief minister M K Stalin on Thursday staged a protest in Namakkal by raising a black flag and burning a copy of the Delimitation Bill, signalling strong opposition to the proposed exercise, which he argues could significantly reduce the representation of southern states.Congress president and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge said the opposition supports women’s reservation but has reservations about the manner of its introduction. He added that opposition parties want it implemented immediately while opposing the proposed delimitation framework, also questioning its functioning in Assam and Jammu and Kashmir.Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said there is a “unanimous resolve” among opposition parties to oppose the delimitation exercise, adding that linking it with women’s reservation is problematic. He further said the opposition wants women’s reservation to apply from the 2029 elections based on the current strength of 543 Lok Sabha seats.Leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi called the proposal a “dangerous plan” to “gerrymander” Lok Sabha constituencies for electoral advantage, warning it could distort representation across states. Congress leader KC Venugopal termed the bill an “anti-national act,” arguing it may impact marginalised communities and weaken the federal structure.What the bills seek to doThe Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026 :The Union government has framed the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026 proposing a significant expansion of the Lok Sabha’s strength from the current 550 members to a maximum of 850, comprising 815 members from States and 35 from Union Territories. The Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026 seeks to implement women’s reservation in legislatures from the 2029 Lok Sabha elections on the basis of the 2011 Census. -The government has been urging support for the amendment, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging consensus to ensure its implementation. Law minister Arjun Ram Meghwal is expected to introduce the bill in the Lok Sabha, with procedural steps proposed to enable its passage alongside related legislation. According to Bar & Bench, the government is planning to implement women’s reservation ahead of the 2029 General Elections by bringing in an amendment to operationalise the 2023 Act and a constitutional amendment to delink the delimitation process from the 2027 Census.The Delimitation Bill, 2026 : The Delimitation Bill, 2026 provides for readjustment of seats in the Lok Sabha and state and Union Territory legislative assemblies, and the division of each state and Union Territory into territorial constituencies. The exercise is based on a population-based revision using the 2011 Census. It proposes delimitation as a wider political overhaul aiming to change the size and composition of state legislative assemblies and the Lok Sabha. The proposed Delimitation Bill’s implementation is also linked to a population-based revision of constituencies based on the 2011 Census. The proposal is being opposed by several opposition parties, which have expressed concerns over its impact on representation, including the proposal to increase Lok Sabha seats from 543 to 850.The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 : The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 seeks to align electoral and administrative provisions in Union Territories with the changes proposed under the women’s reservation and delimitation-related legislation. It is expected to be introduced by Home Minister Amit Shah as part of the legislative package.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia May Face Oil Supply Pressure As US Ends Russian Crude Waiver, Says Bessent’India In Talks With Many Countries Over Hormuz’: MEA Amid US’ Naval BlockadeTamil Nadu elections 2026: Freebies war heats up between DMK, AIADMK & rivals’Not Shehbaz Sharif’: Ex-Minister Fawad Chaudhry Calls Asim Munir ‘De Facto Leader Of Pakistan’TCS Row Explodes: Horrific Details Of Sexual Abuse, Conversion Claims Rock India’s CorporateWomen’s Reservation Bill A ‘Trick’ To Hike Lok Sabha Seats? | Delimitation | Slam Dunk With TehseenIndia Bloc Backs Women’s Reservation But Opposes Delimitation, Flags Risk Of Political Power Shift‘Completely Unacceptable’: Jaishankar Slams Attacks On Merchant Shipping At Azec Plus MeetWomen’s Quota Bill: Govt Clarifies 850-Seat Lok Sabha Plan, Opposition Flags Delimitation ConcernsIndian Delegation To Visit Washington Next Week To Resume Talks On India-US Trade Deal123PhotostoriesChopping board to aluminium foil: 6 common kitchen items to throw out immediately and whyP. V. Sindhu’s elegant Hyderabad home combines minimalist interiors, family-centric spaces, and breathtaking hilltop viewsWhy visiting the Banaras ghats can change the way you see life and deathHard to believe but these are probably the 10 dirtiest spots in a hotel room8 ’90s baby names making a comeback with Gen AlphaChef Vikas Khanna makes it to 100 Most Influential People of 2026: 5 success lessons to learn from his culinary journeyFrom growing up in a conservative family to shooting her debut music video without informing them: Naagin 7’s Kanika Mann opens up about her journeyChandigarh’s Billionaire Lanes: 5 premium regions where the city’s rich live6 desi Indian dishes among Top 32 Rice Puddings in the WorldRanveer Allahbadia’s girlfriend Juhi Bhatt is redefining traditional wedding dressing with contemporary elegance123Hot PicksIran warDisney layoffsPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTaylor Swift Wedding DressCanada Citizenship GarbaUK Migrant Gay ClaimsCBSE Class 12 ResultNirav ModiOmar Tricolour RowKargil Statehood DemandIPL Points TableIran crude oilMeenu Batra

– NEW DELHI: The special session of Parliament on Thursday is set for a heated debate as three key bills — the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, the Delimitation Bill, 2026, and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, including a proposal to implement women’s reservation from the 2029 Lok Sabha elections and a controversial delimitation exercise are to be tabled. Opposition parties have strongly objected to the plan to redraw constituencies and increase the number of seats in the Lok Sabha.Opposition stanceWhile opposition leaders have strongly opposed and criticised the Delimitation Bill, they have expressed support in principle for the women’s reservation proposal, raising concerns over its implementation and timing. Tamil Nadu chief minister M K Stalin on Thursday staged a protest in Namakkal by raising a black flag and burning a copy of the Delimitation Bill, signalling strong opposition to the proposed exercise, which he argues could significantly reduce the representation of southern states.Congress president and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge said the opposition supports women’s reservation but has reservations about the manner of its introduction. He added that opposition parties want it implemented immediately while opposing the proposed delimitation framework, also questioning its functioning in Assam and Jammu and Kashmir.Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said there is a “unanimous resolve” among opposition parties to oppose the delimitation exercise, adding that linking it with women’s reservation is problematic. He further said the opposition wants women’s reservation to apply from the 2029 elections based on the current strength of 543 Lok Sabha seats.Leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi called the proposal a “dangerous plan” to “gerrymander” Lok Sabha constituencies for electoral advantage, warning it could distort representation across states. Congress leader KC Venugopal termed the bill an “anti-national act,” arguing it may impact marginalised communities and weaken the federal structure.What the bills seek to doThe Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026 :The Union government has framed the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026 proposing a significant expansion of the Lok Sabha’s strength from the current 550 members to a maximum of 850, comprising 815 members from States and 35 from Union Territories. The Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026 seeks to implement women’s reservation in legislatures from the 2029 Lok Sabha elections on the basis of the 2011 Census. -The government has been urging support for the amendment, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging consensus to ensure its implementation. Law minister Arjun Ram Meghwal is expected to introduce the bill in the Lok Sabha, with procedural steps proposed to enable its passage alongside related legislation. According to Bar & Bench, the government is planning to implement women’s reservation ahead of the 2029 General Elections by bringing in an amendment to operationalise the 2023 Act and a constitutional amendment to delink the delimitation process from the 2027 Census.The Delimitation Bill, 2026 : The Delimitation Bill, 2026 provides for readjustment of seats in the Lok Sabha and state and Union Territory legislative assemblies, and the division of each state and Union Territory into territorial constituencies. The exercise is based on a population-based revision using the 2011 Census. It proposes delimitation as a wider political overhaul aiming to change the size and composition of state legislative assemblies and the Lok Sabha. The proposed Delimitation Bill’s implementation is also linked to a population-based revision of constituencies based on the 2011 Census. The proposal is being opposed by several opposition parties, which have expressed concerns over its impact on representation, including the proposal to increase Lok Sabha seats from 543 to 850.The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 : The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 seeks to align electoral and administrative provisions in Union Territories with the changes proposed under the women’s reservation and delimitation-related legislation. It is expected to be introduced by Home Minister Amit Shah as part of the legislative package.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia May Face Oil Supply Pressure As US Ends Russian Crude Waiver, Says Bessent’India In Talks With Many Countries Over Hormuz’: MEA Amid US’ Naval BlockadeTamil Nadu elections 2026: Freebies war heats up between DMK, AIADMK & rivals’Not Shehbaz Sharif’: Ex-Minister Fawad Chaudhry Calls Asim Munir ‘De Facto Leader Of Pakistan’TCS Row Explodes: Horrific Details Of Sexual Abuse, Conversion Claims Rock India’s CorporateWomen’s Reservation Bill A ‘Trick’ To Hike Lok Sabha Seats? | Delimitation | Slam Dunk With TehseenIndia Bloc Backs Women’s Reservation But Opposes Delimitation, Flags Risk Of Political Power Shift‘Completely Unacceptable’: Jaishankar Slams Attacks On Merchant Shipping At Azec Plus MeetWomen’s Quota Bill: Govt Clarifies 850-Seat Lok Sabha Plan, Opposition Flags Delimitation ConcernsIndian Delegation To Visit Washington Next Week To Resume Talks On India-US Trade Deal123PhotostoriesChopping board to aluminium foil: 6 common kitchen items to throw out immediately and whyP. V. Sindhu’s elegant Hyderabad home combines minimalist interiors, family-centric spaces, and breathtaking hilltop viewsWhy visiting the Banaras ghats can change the way you see life and deathHard to believe but these are probably the 10 dirtiest spots in a hotel room8 ’90s baby names making a comeback with Gen AlphaChef Vikas Khanna makes it to 100 Most Influential People of 2026: 5 success lessons to learn from his culinary journeyFrom growing up in a conservative family to shooting her debut music video without informing them: Naagin 7’s Kanika Mann opens up about her journeyChandigarh’s Billionaire Lanes: 5 premium regions where the city’s rich live6 desi Indian dishes among Top 32 Rice Puddings in the WorldRanveer Allahbadia’s girlfriend Juhi Bhatt is redefining traditional wedding dressing with contemporary elegance123Hot PicksIran warDisney layoffsPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTaylor Swift Wedding DressCanada Citizenship GarbaUK Migrant Gay ClaimsCBSE Class 12 ResultNirav ModiOmar Tricolour RowKargil Statehood DemandIPL Points TableIran crude oilMeenu Batra

NEW DELHI: The special session of Parliament on Thursday is set for a heated debate as three key bills — the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, the Delimitation Bill, 2026, and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, including a proposal to implement women’s reservation from the 2029 Lok Sabha elections and…

Read More