India Sri Lanka News Live: PM Modi conveys condolences, pledges support after Cyclone Ditwah devastation

In southwest Delhi’s Chhawla, Virendra’s wife Poonam, and brother-in-law Chetan were arrested for allegedly assisting him in moving the body of his live-in partner after he allegedly killed her during a drunken quarrel. Police have seized their clothes and an electric scooter used in the act, and further investigation is ongoing.

The Indian Army conducted a successful combat launch of the BrahMos missile across the Bay of Bengal, hitting its designated target with pinpoint accuracy. Demonstrating exceptional speed and destructive power, the test reaffirms India’s long-range precision strike capability. The Southern Command said the launch reflects growing Aatmanirbharta in defence and the Army’s readiness for future operational challenges.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday spoke with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, conveying heartfelt condolences over the loss of lives and widespread destruction caused by Cyclone Ditwah. He assured that India stands firmly with Sri Lanka in this difficult time and pledged full support to assist recovery efforts.

Patiala House Court remanded Ravjot, Gurkirat, and Kranti to 3 days' police custody, while Ayisha Wafiya was sent to 3 days' judicial custody; the remaining 8 accused were remanded for 7 days.

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar said India has been invited for the first time to chair the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), reflecting global recognition of its electoral integrity. India, a founding member of the 35-nation body, will assume the Chairship in December 2026, representing the world’s largest electorate with over 991 million registered voters.

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav informed the Lok Sabha that a monitoring mechanism has been put in place to track the implementation of 95 directives issued by the Commission for Air Quality Management in Delhi-NCR. Responding to concerns over toxic air in the capital, he outlined steps taken by various agencies but avoided specifying whether the Delhi government has under-utilised ₹1,200 crore provided for clean air initiatives.

Yadav said the city has begun work on measures like mechanical road sweeping, road paving and greening projects, but most are still “at various stages”. He highlighted Central efforts including stricter emission norms and a revised GRAP with earlier triggers for restrictions. The minister also claimed that Delhi has recorded significant improvement in air quality compared to previous years. With pollution levels already “very poor”, the focus now shifts to how effectively these measures are executed on the ground.

Activist Rahul Easwar was arrested on Sunday after a woman complained that she was being defamed online in the sexual assault case against suspended Congress MLA Rahul Mamkoottathil, police said. Officials examined his devices and recorded the arrest after hours of questioning, adding that his social media accounts are under scrutiny.

During the ongoing Parliament Winter Session in Delhi, CPI MP P Sandosh Kumar said the opposition was compelled to boycott the Rajya Sabha.

He stated, "Today, we were compelled to boycott the session. The Parliamentary Affairs Minister made a commitment yesterday that there would be a discussion on SIR or electoral reforms today... We were cooperating for the smooth functioning of procedures. But it is unfortunate and ill-motivated by the ruling dispensation. What other option was left for us? It was their own commitment which they betrayed themselves."

Sandosh Kumar’s remarks come amid growing tension between opposition parties and the ruling government over the delay in taking up the discussion on the Summary Electoral Roll (SIR) and broader electoral reforms.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Monday responded to the opposition’s demand to discuss the Summary Electoral Roll (SIR) in the Rajya Sabha, assuring that the matter is under government consideration.

He said, "Nobody is undermining any matter which was brought out by the opposition parties yesterday in the all party meeting or today. It is under the consideration of the government. If you put a condition that it has to be taken up today itself, then it becomes difficult because you have to give certain space... The matter related to SIR or electoral reforms, the demand that you have put forward has not been rejected. Don't presume that the government is not ready to discuss on any matter..."

Rijiju’s remarks come amid opposition parties pressing for urgent discussion on electoral reforms and issues related to the SIR exercise in Parliament.

The Supreme Court on Monday stressed that stubble burning must not be politicised and called for farmers to be sensitised and provided with necessary machinery. A bench led by CJI Surya Kant asked the Commission for Air Quality Management and the Centre to review the effectiveness of their action plans and submit short- and long-term strategies. The court also highlighted other major contributors, such as vehicles and construction, and directed the Centre to report on measures taken against non-stubble pollution sources within a week.

Speaking in Delhi during the Parliament Winter Session, Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar criticised the Trinamool Congress, alleging the party failed to provide the Rs 18,000 grant meant for Booth Level Officers (BLOs).

He said, "... The TMC should be asked why they did not provide the Rs 18,000 grant that every BLO was supposed to receive... If they are so concerned about the BLOs, they should have received their money on time. They (TMC) are pressurising the BLOs because they did not appoint data entry operators... As a result, the BLOs are forced to handle data operations which are not their responsibility. Mamata Banerjee herself has created pressure on the BLOs. When the CM threatens from the stage that the BLOs should keep in mind they are state government employees, how would they not be afraid? If someone had died, it is because of this..."

Booth Level Officers protesting outside the West Bengal Election Commission office in Kolkata clashed with police on Monday, alleging excessive workload during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision of voter rolls. The agitation intensified as BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari and party MLAs arrived for a scheduled meeting with officials, prompting heightened security at the site. Despite the chaos, the BJP delegation entered the office and submitted a memorandum as planned.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced ‘The Manipur Goods and Services Tax (Second Amendment) Bill, 2025’ in the Lok Sabha for consideration and passage.

India’s power consumption fell marginally by 0.31% in November to 123.4 billion units (BU) from 123.79 BU a year ago, reflecting reduced use of cooling appliances.

October had seen a sharper 5.8% year-on-year drop to 131.07 BU, following a rise to 145.66 BU in September. Experts attributed the decline to winter onset and minimal use of heating appliances, while unseasonal rains in October had already lowered cooling demand. Despite the dip, peak power demand, the highest supply during the month, rose to 215.54 GW from 207.44 GW in November 2024. For context, the all-time peak was about 250 GW in May 2024, with earlier highs of 243.27 GW in September 2023 and 242.77 GW in June 2025. Government projections had estimated peak demand could touch 277 GW in summer 2025. Experts expect power consumption and demand to stabilise from December onwards as colder temperatures increase the use of heating appliances.

Several parts of Tamil Nadu, including Chennai, Thiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Cuddalore, and Ranipet, continued to experience moderate rainfall on Monday due to the remnants of cyclonic storm Ditwah lingering near the Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coasts. The system, now weakened into a deep depression, is expected to gradually weaken further but may continue to bring rain over the next 24 hours, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said. It is likely to remain nearly stationary during this period. The continuous downpour has led to waterlogging in several areas and disrupted transport, prompting the cancellation of ten flights from Chennai Airport to Port Blair. Authorities have urged passengers to check with their airlines for updates.

The Lok Sabha today extended the deadlines for two select committees examining the Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2025. The panel reviewing the Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code amendments has been given time until the last day of the Winter Session. Referred on August 12, the bill proposes an out-of-court framework for genuine business failures and new group and cross-border insolvency mechanisms.

The committee studying the Jan Vishwas Bill has been allowed to submit its report by the end of the second week of the session. Introduced on August 18, the proposal seeks to decriminalise 288 minor offences across various laws to improve ease of living and business conditions.

Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury, this afternoon, dismissed the controversy over her briefly bringing a puppy to Parliament, calling the discussion “needless” and questioning the government’s priorities.

Chowdhury said she picked up the puppy after witnessing a scooter–car collision on her way to Parliament and noticing the animal wandering in traffic. “I thought it would get hit, so I picked it up, put it in the car, came to Parliament, and sent it back,” she said, adding that both the car and the dog left immediately afterward.

“Is there any law against it?” she asked, criticising the attention the incident received. “The real ones who bite are sitting in Parliament. They run the government. We take care of a mute animal, and this becomes a big issue. Does the government have nothing else to do?”

Chowdhury said she instructed her staff to keep the puppy safely at home and added, “We don’t talk about those who sit in Parliament and bite us every day.”

The Supreme Court on Monday declined to entertain pleas seeking an extension of the six-month deadline to register Waqf properties under the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. The Court noted that pleas may be filed with the Tribunal by December 6, the existing deadline. The bench said applicants facing genuine difficulties could seek an extension from the Tribunal. “If the time freezes on the portal, you cannot be held responsible,” the Court said, adding that any extension granted would safeguard their rights within the six-month window.

BJP MP Ravi Kishan said that nearly 65 lakh “bogus voters” had been removed from electoral rolls in Bihar, alleging that such entries could include “terrorist elements, Rohingyas, Bangladeshis and Pakistanis.” He called the issue “highly sensitive” and said it was in the country’s interest for all Opposition parties to support corrective measures.

In the Rajya Sabha, TMC MP Derek O’Brien today extended his best wishes to Vice President and Chairperson of the House, CP Radhakrishnan, remarking that the move from Coimbatore to Delhi could pose challenges given the capital’s air quality.

“We wish you good health and happiness,” O’Brien said, adding that the Vice President has an important role in safeguarding federal principles. “You are the custodian of the states, the Council of States,” he noted, urging the Chair to ensure that federalism remains strong.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh today accused PM Modi of undermining Parliament and avoiding engagement with the Opposition.

Ramesh said the PM rarely attends Parliament but delivers grand pre-session speeches urging Opposition cooperation for smooth functioning of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

He blamed the Prime Minister for any disruptions in parliamentary proceedings, citing his refusal to let the Opposition raise urgent public issues. “He always wants his way without giving the Opposition a chance to speak,” Ramesh said, calling the pre-session statements “nothing but hypocrisy” and adding, “the biggest dramabaaz of them all is talking of drama.”

PM Modi also praised V-P Radhakrishnan for his hands-on approach and dedication to public service during his tenure as Governor.

Highlighting his connection with tribal communities in Jharkhand, PM Modi said Radhakrishnan visited even the smallest villages, often using whatever transport was available, and made a lasting impact through his outreach. “I saw the bond you forged with the tribal communities in Jharkhand. The way you visited even small villages, the Chief Minister of Jharkhand would proudly mention these things whenever he met me. Whether you had a helicopter or not, you would travel in whatever vehicle you had, stopping at small places at night,” PM Modi said.

He added that while many officials sometimes feel burdened by protocol or their position, Radhakrishnan remained grounded and connected with the people. “I’ve noticed that you have no connection with protocol,” the Prime Minister remarked, lauding his humility and spirit of service.

The Lok Sabha has been adjourned till 12 noon following disruptions by opposition members demanding discussions during the Zero Hour.

PM Modi also lauded the Vice President for his lifelong dedication to social service, assuring that members of the House would uphold his dignity while maintaining parliamentary decorum.

“I assure you that all the members sitting in this House, while maintaining the dignity of the Upper House, will always take care of your dignity as well. I assure you that they will maintain decorum,” the Prime Minister noted.

He highlighted Radhakrishnan’s humble background, noting, “Our Chairman comes from a simple family, a farmer's family, and he has dedicated his entire life to social service. The political field has been one aspect of it, but the mainstream has been social service. He has been dedicated to society. He is an inspiration and a guide for all of us who are interested in social service.”

Speaking in the Rajya Sabha on the first day of the Winter Session, PM Modi congratulated Vice President CP Radhakrishnan on his new role as Chairman. Addressing the House, PM Modi said, “Respected Chairman, the Winter Session is beginning today and it is a proud moment for all members of the House. It is a proud moment to welcome you… On behalf of the House, I heartily congratulate you. And I wish you all the best.”

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra responded to PM Modi’s remarks, urging Parliament to prioritise pressing matters such as the election situation, Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, and pollution.

Speaking ahead of the Winter Session, she said, “Let us discuss them. What is the Parliament for? It's not drama. Speaking about and raising issues is not drama. Drama is not allowing democratic discussions about issues that matter to the public.”

PM Modi also hailed the record voter turnout in the recent Bihar elections, calling it a “greatest strength of democracy.” He highlighted the increasing participation of women voters, saying it has created “new hope and new confidence” in the democratic process.

PM Modi added that India’s progress in strengthening both democracy and the economy is being closely observed globally. “India has proven that democracy can deliver results,” he said, linking robust electoral participation with the nation’s broader developmental achievements.

PM Modi also criticised the trend of using Parliament for electoral posturing or to vent frustrations over political defeats.

Addressing the Winter Session, he said some parties have increasingly used the House to push state-level politics, rather than focusing on national issues.

“If our media friends analyse, they will find that for some time now, this House has been used either for election warm-up or to vent frustration over defeat. I have seen some states where, after being in power, there is so much anti-incumbency that they are unable to reach out to the public. They vent all their anger in the House,” PM Modi said.

PM Modi also added that the session should focus on Parliament’s vision for the nation. “This session should focus on what this Parliament thinks about the country, what it wants to do for the country. The focus should be on these issues,” he said, calling on the opposition to raise substantial and meaningful matters.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also called on all political parties to approach the Winter Session of Parliament with responsibility and balance, warning against letting electoral outcomes influence debates.

“I urge all parties, in this winter session, that the panic of defeat should not become a ground for debate. As public representatives, we should handle the responsibility and expectations of the people of the country with utmost balance and responsibility, while thinking about the future,” PM Modi said.

PM Modi, while addressing the media, said, "The Winter Session should not turn into a battleground for frustration over defeat, nor an expression of arrogance over victory. We should maintain a balance."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today called on all political parties to maintain responsibility and balance during the Winter Session of Parliament. He stressed that the “panic of defeat” should not drive debates, urging lawmakers to prioritise the interests and expectations of the people while thinking about the country’s future.

The Winter Session of Parliament will feature a busy legislative agenda, with several major bills lined up for discussion and approval. Among the highlights are the National Highways (Amendment) Bill, Atomic Energy Bill, Corporate Laws (Amendment) Bill, Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill, and the Higher Education Commission of India Bill, 2025.

The Atomic Energy Bill is likely to draw particular attention as it could allow private companies to establish nuclear power plants for the first time, signaling a significant policy shift in India’s nuclear sector.

Alongside legislative proposals, Parliament will take up the first batch of Supplementary Demands for Grants for 2025–26. The session will also include a full-day debate on Vande Mataram, commemorating its 150th anniversary and highlighting the government’s focus on cultural and patriotic issues.

The India Bloc Floor Leaders are holding a meeting at the office of Rajya Sabha Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge in the Parliament House complex ahead of the Winter Session. Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi is also participating in the discussions, as opposition parties strategize on key issues expected to dominate the session.

Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan has arrived at Parliament morning ahead of the commencement of the Winter Session. This will be his first time presiding over the Rajya Sabha since assuming office as Vice President. The session begins today with a packed legislative agenda and heightened political attention on key national issues.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is slated to brief accredited media representatives shortly at Hans Dwar, Parliament House, ahead of the Sixth Session of the 18th Lok Sabha. The PM's address is expected to outline the government’s priorities for the Winter Session and set the tone for the legislative agenda.

Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi today urged the government to accommodate opposition demands during the Winter Session, saying cooperation must be “a two-way street” in Parliament.

Speaking in Delhi, Gogoi said the Congress and other opposition parties are prepared to support the government on all bills listed for passage. However, he stressed that the government must, in return, allow the opposition to raise key issues of public importance.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi today said her party will seek an explanation from the Rajya Sabha Secretariat and the Centre on why slogans such as “Vande Mataram” and “Jai Hind” are being treated as breaches of parliamentary etiquette. Calling the move reminiscent of “British-era governance,” she said these slogans are part of India’s freedom movement and are raised “out of patriotism,” alleging that action against them is “anti-national.”

Chaturvedi reiterated the Opposition’s demand for a detailed discussion on what she termed “vote chori,” accusing the government of winning elections by undermining the Election Commission. She urged the government to immediately withdraw the notice issued in the Rajya Sabha related to the use of national slogans.

Delhi continued to experience poor air quality this morning, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) rising to 299 at 7 am, up from 279 on Sunday afternoon, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Nehru Nagar recorded the city’s highest pollution level at 354, falling in the “very poor” category. Other areas with hazardous air included Rohini (341), Bawana (339), RK Puram (336), Mundka (330), and Punjabi Bagh (328). Meanwhile, NSIT Dwarka had the lowest AQI at 195 (“moderate”), followed by Mandir Marg (207) and IGI Airport T3 (248), indicating comparatively better air conditions.

Operation Sagar Bandhu Live Updates: IAF brings home final batch of Indians stuck in Colombo

In the meantime, according to the Indian Embassy in Sri Lanka, the final group of Indian nationals stranded at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo has safely returned home under Operation Sagar Bandhu, ANI reported today.

A total of 104 passengers arrived in Thiruvananthapuram aboard an Indian Air Force aircraft at around 6:30 am today.

AAP MP Sanjay Singh has also submitted a Suspension of Business notice under Rule 267 in the Rajya Sabha, urging a discussion on the Election Commission of India’s SIR of electoral rolls. Singh highlighted concerns over alleged arbitrary deletions from voter lists, the deaths of Booth Level Officers (BLOs), and the potential disenfranchisement of voters. He warned that these issues could threaten citizens’ fundamental rights under Articles 14, 21, and 326 of the Constitution.

Ahead of the first day of the Parliament Winter session, Congress MP Manickam Tagore has submitted an Adjournment Motion notice in the Lok Sabha, demanding the immediate suspension of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in all 12 states and Union Territories where it is currently underway. The MP has called for urgent parliamentary discussion on the issue, citing concerns over the planning and execution of the SIR process.

Meanwhile, in Jammu and Kashmir, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) is carrying out searches at eight locations in connection with the 10 November Delhi terror blast case. The searches are part of the investigating team's efforts to gather evidence and advance the investigation into the incident.

In addition, Sitharaman will introduce the Health Security and National Security Cess Bill, 2025, aimed at augmenting resources for national security and public health expenditure. The legislation proposes a cess on machinery or processes used in the production of specified goods, with the revenue directed to health and security-related initiatives.

As the Winter Session of Parliament begins today, the Lok Sabha is set to take up the introduction of key bills aimed at strengthening fiscal and security measures.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will move for leave to introduce the Central Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which proposes further amendments to the Central Excise Act, 1944. The bill seeks to update provisions related to the levy and collection of excise duties on manufactured goods.