One Nation One Election Bill Amid Opposition

Why in the news?

  • The government introduced the controversial “One Nation, One Election” Bills in the Lok Sabha amidst strong objections from the Opposition.
  • A division vote saw 263 members in favor and 198 opposing the introduction of the Bills, raising questions about the required majority.

ONE NATION ONE ELECTION BILL AMID OPPOSITION

Opposition’s Claims

  • Opposition MPs, including Shashi Tharoor, argued that the government did not secure the two-thirds majority needed to pass the Constitutional amendment.
  • Tharoor criticized the Bills for violating the federal structure and raising concerns about the impact on state governments.
  • The opposition claimed a victory, asserting that the vote highlighted the government’s inability to achieve the required majority.

Experts’ Interpretation

  • According to D.T. Achary, a special majority is not necessary for introducing a Constitution amendment Bill.
  • The constitutional rules specify that a simple majority is sufficient for the introduction and referral of the Bill to a committee.

What Do the Rules Say?

  • Rule 157 of the Rules of Procedure outlines that a simple majority is sufficient for the introduction or referral of a Constitutional amendment Bill.
  • A special majority (two-thirds of members present and voting) is only required in the subsequent stages of the Bill’s passage through Parliament.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times