In the latest development, the Central government is reportedly considering a special session of Parliament soon after the ongoing Monsoon session concludes on August 13.
According to the government sources, the session could be held around August 17 to take up two key pieces of legislation – the Delimitation Bill and the Women’s Reservation Amendment Bill.
Both Bills are part of the 131st Constitutional Amendment Bill, which requires a two-thirds majority in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha to become law.
Why Is a Special Session Being Considered?
Sources said the government is currently assessing its numbers in Parliament before deciding on the special session.
Since Constitutional Amendment Bills require a special majority, the Centre wants to ensure it has enough support before bringing the legislation back for discussion and voting. If the required numbers are secured, the government is expected to convene the special session soon after the Monsoon Session ends.
Previous Attempt Fell Short
The Delimitation Bill and the Women’s Reservation Bill were earlier introduced during a three-day special session of Parliament in April.
However, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) could not secure the required two-thirds majority in either House, preventing the Constitutional Amendment Bill from being passed.
The legislation was therefore left pending.
Political Numbers Have Changed
Since April, the political landscape has changed, improving the BJP-led NDA’s position in Parliament.
According to sources, the alliance’s strength increased following the West Bengal Assembly elections, where the Trinamool Congress (TMC) suffered major electoral losses.
The government believes these political developments have reduced the gap needed to reach the special majority required for Constitutional amendments.
At present, a Constitutional Amendment Bill requires the support of 360 members in the Lok Sabha and 164 members in the Rajya Sabha.
Can the Government Secure Enough Support?
Apart from strengthening its own numbers, the BJP is also exploring support from other parties.
Sources indicated that the party is looking at the possibility of backing from the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), particularly after reported political differences between the DMK and its INDIA bloc ally, the Congress.
The DMK has 22 Lok Sabha MPs, making its support potentially significant if the government seeks to pass a Constitutional Amendment Bill.