The BJP plans to issue notices to over 20 of its MPs who were absent during the introduction of the ‘One Nation, One Election’ Bill in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, sources have revealed. The ruling party had previously issued a three-line whip, mandating all its Lok Sabha members to be present in the House.
Although the absence of MPs did not obstruct the tabling of the bills—meant to amend the Constitution and align parliamentary and state Assembly elections—it provided ammunition to the opposition.
The Congress seized the opportunity, arguing that the no-show reflects a lack of support within the government for its flagship ‘One Nation, One Poll’ initiative.
BJP’s Response to Absences
According to sources, the BJP is taking a serious view of the absence of its MPs during such a critical session. Notices will be sent to those who skipped the session, as the party seeks to ensure full attendance in future key votes.
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The Congress, which fiercely opposed the bill, claimed the absences showcased the government’s fragility on the issue. Party leaders, including Manickam Tagore, pointed out the government’s failure to achieve a two-thirds majority in the division vote, a benchmark necessary for constitutional amendments.
‘One Nation, One Election’: The Bigger Picture
The bills aim to streamline the electoral process by synchronizing parliamentary and state elections. However, the proposal has sparked a heated political debate, with opposition parties accusing the BJP of undermining federalism.
The BJP will need all its MPs present to secure the numbers required to pass these bills, especially since it currently falls short of the two-thirds majority needed for constitutional amendments.
