Parliament is assembling after India's stand was vindicated at the International Court of Justice in the Kulbhushan Jadhav case. However, the former Navy official will have stay in Pakistan jail. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is expected to make a statement in the House regarding the issue.
Here are the live updates:
Anand Sharma raises a Point of Order. He takes up the issue of yesterday's Supreme Court order on rebel Karnataka MLAs. Mr. Sharma says the verdict is in conflict with the parliament's soverignity.
The Chair objects, says the matter is not before the House. "I will give a detailed order, now that you have made a statement," he says.
Samajwadi party leader Ram Gopal Yadav raises on killing on 10 adivasi. He targets Uttar Pradesh government. His party members join the issue. They troop the well of the House.
House is adjourned till 12 noon.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar briefs Rajya Sabha on the Kulbushan Jadhav judgment. He says Pakistan had illegally detained Mr. Jadhav and awarded him death sentence on fabricated charges, that too without providing consular access to him.
India took the issue with the International Court of Justice to ensure the safety, security and well being of Mr. Jadhav. That body stayed the execution of death penalty as a provisional measure.
The ICJ delivered its justice on the Jadhav case yesterday. Significantly, the court unanimously found it had jurisdiction to the matter and by a vote of 15 to one pronounced its verdict on other key issues, Mr. Jaishankar says.
The sole dissenting judge was from Pakistan, Mr. Jaishankar says elaborating the judgment.
The government made a promise in the House that the government will take all steps necessary to protect the interests of Mr. Jadhav. The government has made untiring efforts in seeking his release. I am sure the House will joining in appreciating the efforts of all those involved, especially the legal team lead by Harish Salve. Members approve by thumping the desks.
Mr. Jaishankar mentions the contribution of Harish Salve, who pleaded on behalf of India at the ICJ.
Yesterday's judgment was not just a vindication for India, but for all those who believe in the rule of law, Mr. Jaishankar says.
Mr. Jaishankar says Mr. Jadhav is innocent and no forced confession will change this fact. We once again call upon Pakistan to release and repatriate him forthwith.
"I am happy the entire House has joined together to support judgement," the Chair says.
Question Hour begins in Lok Sabha. Harish Dwivedi (BJP) asks about solar street lights. He says a private firm was asked to install and maintain solar lights in his constituency Basti. The Minister says the lights are installed by contractors and they come with five years guarantee. If the firm is found not maintaining them, the contractor would be blacklisted.