One Nation, One Election Bill Passed in Lok Sabha with 269 Votes; BJP to Issue Notice to 20+ Absent MPs Despite Whip
The Winter Session of Parliament entered its 17th day on Tuesday, December 17. During the session, the “One Nation, One Election” Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha. Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal tabled the 129th Constitutional Amendment Bill to facilitate the concept of One Nation, One Election.
However, during the voting, over 20 BJP MPs were absent from the House. Earlier on Tuesday, the BJP had issued a three-line whip, instructing its Lok Sabha members to ensure their presence in the House.
Debate and Re-Voting on One Nation, One Election Bill
After the One Nation, One Election Bill was introduced, MPs were given time to debate and express their views. Following objections raised by several parties, the Bill was put to electronic voting for reconsideration.
In the initial voting, 220 votes were in favor, while 149 were against. The Speaker announced that members who wished to change their votes could collect slips for correction. In the subsequent counting, 269 votes were cast in favor, and 198 against.
Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal then reintroduced the Bill.
Amendment Bill for Union Territories Introduced
Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal also introduced an amendment bill related to three laws governing Union Territories. This bill includes amendments to:
- The Government of Union Territories Act, 1963
- The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi Act, 1991
- The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act, 2019
The amendments pave the way for granting full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir through necessary revisions.
Amit Shah Proposes JPC Review; Opposition Criticizes One Nation, One Election Bill
Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that when the One Nation, One Election Bill was presented in the Cabinet, Prime Minister Narendra Modi suggested referring it to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for further review.
Expressing opposition to the Bill, Samajwadi Party MP Dharmendra Yadav criticized it as a move by the BJP to impose dictatorship in the country.
