DMK Won't Follow Congress on Constitution Amendment Bill
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
DMK and NCP (SP) signals indicate support for the government's Constitution amendment bill to increase Lok Sabha seats and implement women's reservation from 2029. This comes after political realignments like the disintegration of Trinamool Congress and split in Shiv Sena (UBT). DMK has declared it will not follow Congress's stand this time, accusing Congress of betraying allies.
Background
In the last session, the government tried to win over DMK by offering a 50% increase in state representation in Lok Sabha, but the bill received support from 298 MPs. DMK had previously voted against the bill following the INDIA bloc's decision. The bill aims to increase Lok Sabha seats and implement women's reservation law.
Key facts
DMK and NCP (SP) signals suggest growing political momentum for the Constitution amendment bill.
The bill will increase Lok Sabha seats and implement women's reservation law from 2029.
Government plans to incorporate changes to assure fence-sitters, including a written declaration that seats in every state will increase by 50%.
DMK sources accused Congress of betraying the INDIA bloc by allying with TVK in Tamil Nadu.
DMK cited Congress's history of deceiving allies, including withdrawing support from the Gujral government in 1997.
NCP (SP) has eight MPs and has indicated support.
The bill had support of 298 MPs in April; government is waiting for assured numbers before reviving it.
Political realignments include BJP's victory in Bengal elections and split in Shiv Sena (UBT).
Prelims pointers
- Constitution amendment bill
- Women's reservation law
- Lok Sabha seats increase
- 50% increase in state representation
- DMK
- NCP (SP)
- INDIA bloc
- TVK (Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam)
- United Front government (1997)
- Rajiv Gandhi assassination
Mains angles
- Discuss the political dynamics and coalition politics in India with reference to the Constitution amendment bill.
- Critically examine the implications of increasing Lok Sabha seats and women's reservation on federalism and representation.
- Analyze the role of regional parties like DMK in shaping national legislation and their shifting alliances.