Parliament Winter Session Day 18 LIVE Updates: Oppn. MPs question ‘illegal’ powers given to EC in ‘ONOE’ bill; Constitution debate continues in RS

Tue Dec 17 05:01:42 UTC 2024: ## Parliament Debates “One Nation, One Election” Bill Amidst Opposition, Concerns

**New Delhi, December 17, 2024** – The Indian Parliament witnessed heated debates today as the Union government introduced the Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, 2024, proposing simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. The bill, dubbed “One Nation, One Election,” sparked significant opposition, with several parties demanding its withdrawal or referral to a Joint Parliamentary Committee.

Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal introduced the bill in the Lok Sabha, arguing it would streamline the election process. However, the Congress, NCP (SP), TMC, DMK, and other opposition parties voiced strong concerns, citing potential threats to federalism and the basic structure of the Constitution. They raised concerns about the bill granting the Election Commission excessive powers. The opposition’s protests led to multiple disruptions in the Lok Sabha. While the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) stated it would review the bill before taking a stance, the TDP offered its support.

The Rajya Sabha also saw significant debate on the Constitution’s 75th anniversary. Union Minister J.P. Nadda initiated the discussion, highlighting the principles of democracy within Indian ethos. However, TMC MP Sushmita Dev criticized the government’s economic policies, citing growing inequality and the impact of demonetization and the COVID-19 lockdown. She also condemned the situation in Manipur.

Meanwhile, other parliamentary matters included:

* **Coastal Security:** Union Minister Nityanand Rai revealed that none of the 18 surveillance boats allocated to West Bengal for coastal security are operational, raising concerns about coastal security preparedness.
* **Farmers’ Income:** Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan assured the Lok Sabha that the government is committed to increasing farmers’ income through various schemes and that fertilizer subsidies will not be curtailed.
* **Unemployment:** Congress MP Vijay Vasanth raised the issue of rising unemployment, citing high unemployment rates and the plight of job seekers.
* **Tributes:** Both houses observed a moment of silence to pay tribute to the late Tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain.

The “One Nation, One Election” bill remains a central point of contention, with the government and opposition deeply divided on its merits and implications. Further parliamentary discussions are expected in the coming days.