NEW DELHI: Congress gavelled back into session late Wednesday to resume the process of certifying Joe Biden's presidential election victory after a mob protesting Donald Trump's defeat violently invaded the US Capitol and plunged Washington into chaos. Responding to the violent clashes which left one dead, Mayor of Washington imposed a curfew.
Here are the highlights:
* Following violent clashes outside US Capitol Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "Distressed to see news about rioting & violence in Washington DC. Orderly and peaceful transfer of power must continue. The democratic process cannot be allowed to be subverted through unlawful protests."
* Initially disrupted due to violent protests, Congress returned to complete the electoral count.
* Vice President Mike Pence reopening the Senate session assured that "the world will again witness the resilience and strength of our democracy" and said that those "wreaked havoc" have not yet won. "Violence never wins, freedom wins", said the Vice President.
* The House of Representatives also resumed its session, with Speaker Nancy Pelosi telling lawmakers they will stay "as long as it takes" to finish the certification of Electoral College votes, the final formal step affirming Biden's win.
* Amidst the violent clashes, one woman was shot and killed inside the Capitol building.
* Social media giants Facebook and Twitter said they will block Donald Trump's accounts. While Facebook said it will impose a 24-hour ban, Twitter is to block Trump's account for 12 hours warning of permanent suspension.
* Former US President Barack Obama said that the attack on US Congress is a matter of 'great shame' but 'not surprising'.
* Stephanie Grisham, the first lady's chief of staff and former White House press secretary, resigned after the violent protests in the Capitol.