Lok Sabha Debates
Need To Suitably Amend The Anti-Defection Law. on 6 August, 2001
Title: Need to suitably amend the Anti-Defection Law.
SHRI HOLKHOMANG HAOKIP (OUTER MANIPUR): The imposition of President’s rule in Manipur has been approved by both the Houses of Parliament. But, at this juncture, the pertinent issue that looms large over the political horizon of Manipur is the Government’s proposition to dissolve the Manipur Assembly in the near future. Until and unless we strengthen the anti-defection law, the chronic cancer of horse-trading and floor-crossing will continue. It is almost certain to happen again and again in smaller States like Manipur, Goa, Meghalaya and others. Hence, let us first bring about changes in the Tenth Schedule so as to make the anti-defection law more effective and comprehensive. In such a fluid political situation of Manipur, the first and foremost thing to do is to restore people’s confidence in political leadership and democratically elected representatives. Holding election for every two years cannot be the panacea. Therefore, I urge upon the Central Government not to dissolve the present Assembly. Instead a new effective be enacted in place of the existing anti-defection law to restore people’s confidence in democracy, elected representatives and rule of law.
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14.25 hrs.