 "Sri Lanka's President and National People's Power (NPP) party leader Anura Kumara Disanayaka gestures as he leaves after casting his vote on the day of the parliamentary election in Colombo, Sri Lanka, November 14, 2024. File Image/Reuters")
As the world observes significant developments, today’s (December 16, 2024) headlines feature Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Disanayaka’s first State Visit to India, aimed at enhancing bilateral ties.
In New Delhi, Rajya Sabha continues a landmark debate on the Constitution, following the Lok Sabha’s earlier discussions.
Meanwhile, Kolkata prepares to host Vijay Diwas celebrations, with a Bangladeshi delegation expected to join.
A Delhi court is set to rule on a pivotal case from the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, and in Germany, Chancellor Olaf Scholz faces a confidence vote that could reshape the nation’s political landscape.
Here’s a roundup of the key stories:
Sri Lankan president for state visit in India
President Anura Kumara Disanayaka of Sri Lanka is on a State Visit to India from December 15-17, marking his first bilateral trip to the country since recent elections in Sri Lanka.
He will engage in discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and participate in a business event in Delhi to boost bilateral trade and investments.
The visit underscores the importance of India-Sri Lanka ties, aligned with India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy.
Rajya Sabha debates Constitution as Lok Sabha concludes discussion
The Rajya Sabha will begin its two-day debate on the Constitution, marking the 75th year of its adoption. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh opened the Lok Sabha discussions last week, asserting that the Constitution belongs to the nation and not any single political party.
Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra delivered her maiden speech during the Lok Sabha debate. Heated protests in the Lok Sabha had led to adjournments and now further discussions are scheduled to continue in the upper house.
Bangladesh delegation expected for Vijay Diwas celebrations
The Indian Army’s Eastern Command headquarters in Kolkata is preparing to host Vijay Diwas celebrations on December 16, with a Bangladeshi delegation likely to attend, reported The Hindu.
The day honors India’s 1971 victory over Pakistan and the birth of Bangladesh as an independent nation.
Delhi court to rule on 1984 anti-Sikh riots case
A Delhi court is expected to deliver its verdict on December 16 in a murder case related to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots involving former Congress MP Sajjan Kumar.
The case concerns the deaths of two individuals in Saraswati Vihar during the riots.
German Chancellor calls for confidence vote
Chancellor Olaf Scholz has requested a confidence vote in parliament on December 16, following the collapse of his coalition government.
A loss in the vote could trigger fresh federal elections, potentially scheduled for February 23, 2025. Policymaking in Germany has slowed significantly since the coalition’s disintegration.
Today in History - December 16
1971 war anniversary: India’s Victory over Pakistan (Vijay Diwas): On this day in 1971, India achieved a historic victory over Pakistan, leading to the creation of Bangladesh. Vijay Diwas is celebrated annually to honor the bravery of the Indian Armed Forces and the liberation of Bangladesh after a 13-day war.
Bangladesh Victory Day: Bangladesh celebrates its Victory Day, marking the end of the Liberation War in 1971. This day commemorates the surrender of Pakistani forces in Dhaka and the nation’s emergence as an independent country.
Birth anniversary of Jane Austen (1775-1817): The renowned British author of classics like Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility was born on this day. Austen’s keen observations of society and witty prose have made her one of the most celebrated writers in English literature.
Birth anniversary of H D Kumaraswamy (1959): Former Chief Minister of Karnataka, H D Kumaraswamy, was born on December 16. Known for his political contributions, he has played a significant role in Karnataka’s governance and politics.
Birth anniversary of Adam Riess (1969): Nobel Prize-winning American astronomer Adam Riess was born on this day. He is best known for his contributions to the discovery of the accelerating expansion of the universe, which has deepened our understanding of dark energy.
UK recognised Bahrain’s independence (1971): On this day, the United Kingdom formally recognised Bahrain’s independence. This marked a significant step in the Gulf nation’s journey to becoming a sovereign state after years of British protection.
Vasco da Gama rounded the Cape of Good Hope (1497): Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama successfully rounded the Cape of Good Hope, paving the way for a sea route to India. This was a pivotal moment in the Age of Exploration, linking Europe and Asia through maritime trade.
With inputs from agencies