​Evening newswrap: Lok Sabha to hold 10-hour debate on electoral reforms; Imran Khan's sister meets jailed leader; & more

NEW DELHI: Parliament is set to hold key discussions on electoral reforms and the 150th anniversary of the national song, Vande Mataram, after lawmakers reached an agreement to resume proceedings smoothly following days of disruptions. Meanwhile, in Pakistan, former Prime Minister Imran Khan received a visit from his sister at Adiala Jail, breaking weeks of restricted access that had sparked protests by PTI supporters and family members. Navy chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi announced the upcoming commissioning of the country’s third indigenous nuclear submarine and highlighted the Navy’s strategic role during Operation Sindoor, which pressured Pakistan’s naval forces to remain close to their ports.Here are the top 5 news stories of the day:The government and opposition reached an agreement to ensure smooth functioning of Parliament after two days of disruptions, clearing the way for a detailed 10-hour discussion on electoral reforms on December 9 and 10. The decision was finalised during a Business Advisory Committee meeting chaired by Speaker Om Birla, who also scheduled a debate on the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram for December 8. Read full storyAuthorities at Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail allowed Imran Khan’s sister, Uzma Khanum, to meet the former Pakistan prime minister after several weeks of denied access that had fuelled protests by PTI supporters. PTI workers gathered outside the jail as family members demanded clarity on Imran’s health. The meeting followed weeks of blocked visits despite an Islamabad High Court order and growing tensions over alleged police assaults on Imran’s sisters during recent demonstrations. Read full storyTelecom minister Jyotiraditya Scindia clarified that the government’s Sanchar Saathi cybersecurity app is completely optional for users. Speaking outside Parliament, he said the app does not enable call monitoring or snooping, and users can choose to register, remain inactive, or delete it at any time. Read full storyCongress leader Rahul Gandhi weighed in on the controversy surrounding MP Renuka Chowdhury bringing a stray dog to Parliament, questioning why pets are allowed “inside” but not outside the complex. He said, “What has the poor dog done? I guess these are the things India is discussing these days,” as per PTI. The remarks drew criticism from the BJP, which accused Gandhi of likening leaders to dogs. Read full storyNavy chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi announced that India’s third indigenously built nuclear-powered submarine will be commissioned soon. Speaking ahead of Navy Day, he said the Navy’s swift and aggressive action during counterterror Operation Sindoor forced Pakistan’s naval forces to stay close to their ports near the Makran coast. Read full story