Freedom from Whip-Driven Tyranny: Tewari's Bill for Good Lawmaking

Congress MP Manish Tewari introduces a bill in Lok Sabha advocating parliamentarian independence on non-government motions and bills. It challenges the Anti-Defection Law's stipulations except for key motions, promoting democratic representation over party whips. The proposal, aiming for better lawmaking, is Tewari's third attempt after 2010 and 2021.

In a significant move towards reforming the legislative process, Congress MP Manish Tewari has introduced a private member's bill in the Lok Sabha. The bill seeks to provide Indian parliamentarians with the autonomy to vote independently on various matters, except those impacting government stability, like confidence motions.

Highlighted by Tewari as essential for 'good lawmaking,' the bill proposes amendments to the Anti-Defection Law, encouraging MPs to represent their constituencies rather than party mandates. This initiative marks Tewari's third submission, seeking to eradicate the 'whip-driven tyranny' that dominates Indian legislative processes.

The proposed legislation allows members to maintain their positions unless they defy party directions on crucial government stability issues. Tewari emphasized the need for parliamentarians to actively engage in lawmaking, noting that the current system reduces them to mere numbers, restricting genuine debate and contribution.

(With inputs from agencies.)