Indian MPs discuss controversial anti-terror bill

India’s parliament was called into a joint session for only the third time since independence today, to consider an anti-terrorism bill that the opposition said will curtail civil rights.

The Prevention of Terrorism Ordinance bill would allow police to hold suspects for questioning for 90 days, and for 180 days with approval from a special court. It also says that anybody suspected of giving money to terrorists, providing shelter, transport, or other support to them, could be tried on terrorism charges.