Tue Dec 17 12:13:57 UTC 2024: ## BJP MPs’ Absence Highlights Divisions Over One Nation, One Election Bill
**New Delhi:** The introduction of the government’s ambitious “One Country, One Election” bill in the Lok Sabha today was marked by the absence of over 20 BJP MPs, prompting the party to issue notices to the absent members. While the bill, along with a constitutional amendment bill, passed by a simple majority (269-198), the BJP’s internal disciplinary action underscores concerns about the government’s ability to garner the necessary two-thirds majority for constitutional amendments.
The Congress seized on the BJP MPs’ absences, arguing it demonstrated a lack of government support for the controversial legislation. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor highlighted the bill’s requirement of a two-thirds majority for passage, stating the government’s current numbers make its success unlikely and urging them to reconsider.
Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, while introducing the Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, assured the house that the bill aims to streamline the electoral process and will not damage the Constitution’s basic structure. The government plans to send the bill to a committee for further discussion, acknowledging the need for broad consensus, particularly given the requirement for ratification by all state and union territory governments.
However, the Opposition remains strongly opposed, alleging the bill will subvert the Constitution – a claim the government vehemently denies. The debate over the bill is expected to continue, with the required two-thirds majority proving a significant hurdle for the government.
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