The absence of 20 BJP MPs during the introduction of the One Nation, One Election Bill in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday has sparked internal scrutiny within the ruling party. The lawmakers, including prominent leaders such as Nitin Gadkari, Giriraj Singh, and Jyotiraditya Scindia, are expected to face repercussions for failing to comply with a three-line whip issued by the party, mandating their presence in the House.
Introduction of the Bill
The Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill was introduced by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal amid fierce opposition. The bill seeks to align Lok Sabha and Assembly elections across the country.
Despite the controversy, it passed its introductory phase with 269 votes in favour and 198 against.
Opposition’s Criticism
The opposition labeled the bill as “dictatorial” and a threat to India’s federal structure.
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Congress leader Manickam Tagore and MP Shashi Tharoor highlighted the BJP’s inability to secure the required two-thirds majority (307 votes), despite having the largest party presence.
Challenges for BJP
The BJP-led NDA holds 293 MPs in the Lok Sabha, falling short of the numbers needed to amend the Constitution.
The absence of 20 MPs raised questions about the party’s ability to ensure full attendance on critical legislation. The party is reportedly preparing notices for the absent MPs, aiming to enforce discipline and accountability.
To secure a two-thirds majority, the BJP will need support from non-aligned parties. The YSR Congress (4 MPs) and Akali Dal (1 MP) have already pledged their backing.
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The bill is expected to be referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for further examination. The composition of the JPC will reflect party strengths in the Lok Sabha, giving the BJP the largest representation and a leadership role in deliberations.
Union Territories Amendment Bill
Alongside the One Nation, One Election Bill, another bill aligning elections in Delhi, Puducherry, and Jammu and Kashmir with Lok Sabha polls was introduced. Meghwal emphasized that neither bill undermines state autonomy.
The JPC has 48 hours to settle the bills before the Parliament session concludes on December 20. If deliberations remain inconclusive, the bills will lapse and must be reintroduced in the next session.
While the BJP has showcased its intent to push forward with the legislation, the path to achieving consensus remains challenging, given the numbers and staunch opposition resistance. The absence of key BJP MPs during such a critical vote underlines the hurdles the ruling party faces, even within its ranks.
