Himachal Pradesh Passes Bill Revoking Pensions for Defectors

The Himachal Pradesh Assembly has approved a bill disallowing pension benefits to legislators disqualified for defection, igniting heated debates between the treasury and opposition benches over its intent and legality. The measure, led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, aims to enforce the anti-defection law more stringently.

The Himachal Pradesh Assembly has passed a controversial bill denying pension benefits to legislators disqualified under the anti-defection law. The legislation, spearheaded by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, seeks to amend existing laws to prevent disqualified MLAs from accessing pensions, sparking fiery exchanges in the assembly.

Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur accused the government of political vendetta against defectors, questioning the amendment's legal standing and its retrospective and prospective applicability. Echoing Thakur, BJP MLA Trilok Jamwal asserted that the law should be prospective, pointing to previous judicial decisions rejecting similar legislative actions.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan defended the bill, describing it as historic, aimed at curbing defections. Chief Minister Sukhu denied targeting any individual or party, highlighting the need for transparency in governance and clarifying that the law will apply prospectively. The assembly's decision underscores ongoing debates about the political landscape in Himachal Pradesh.

(With inputs from agencies.)