• Source:JND

Jagran Bureau, New Delhi | The government’s strategy to pass the Constitutional amendment bill for one-third reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies will be finalised within the next 15 days, said the sources. The bill, which is linked to delimitation using the 2011 Census data and is set to be implemented from the 2029 elections, is expected to be introduced and passed in the upcoming Monsoon Session. The government may push the key bills, which require a two-thirds majority in both Houses, in the upcoming Parliament Session.

What Strengthens the Government's Hope

On one hand, the ruling NDA's tally has increased due to the rebellion in the Trinamool Congress and a possible split in the Shiv Sena (UBT). Sources also indicate that talks with some regional opposition parties are progressing positively in favour of the government. If all goes well, the bill could be passed at the beginning of the Monsoon Session, which is set to commence around mid-July.

ALSO READ: TMC Revolt, Sena Split And Congress-DMK Breakup: How Rebellions Are Paving Way For NDA's 2/3rd Majority In Parliament

Bills Were Not Withdrawn Despite Failing In Lok Sabha

The amendment bill, introduced during the extended part of the Budget Session, was defeated due to a lack of a two-thirds majority. However, Home Minister Amit Shah has not withdrawn the bill from the House.

Women's Reservation Bill To Be Reintroduced

According to sources, the changed environment is shifting the sentiments of opposition parties and members. Individually, each member is excited about the 50 per cent increase in seats in each state, as this will ensure their own seats are secure. This particularly excites the southern states. At that time, the DMK had opposed it solely because of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Now that the party has lost the elections and is out of the opposition's INIDA bloc, it is only being assessed whether a change in stance will have a significant adverse impact on the party.

ALSO READ: NDA's Two-Third Majority Dilemma Continues Despite Rajya Sabha Wins, TMC Rebellion In Lok Sabha; What's Numbers Game?

How The Number Game Is Set To Play

In the current scenario, if the 22 seats of the DMK, 20 seats of the Trinamool rebel camp, and 6 seats of the Shiv Sena (UTB) rebels are added, the NDA would reach 346 in the House of 543. Last time, the NDA secured 298 votes. Sources said, given the upcoming elections, there is little hope of direct support from the Samajwadi Party (SP), but many members of the Congress and other parties, including the SP, may not be present for voting.

Mathematically, if 21 members abstain, the two-thirds majority would be 346 instead of 362. Despite a whip being issued for voting, 12 members were absent last time as well.
(With Jagran.com Inputs)


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