Congress MP Manish Tewari has introduced a private member’s bill in Lok Sabha proposing a major overhaul of the Anti-Defection Law to allow MPs to vote independently on most legislative matters, except those directly affecting a government’s survival. The bill, tabled on Friday, aims to free lawmakers from what Tewari calls “whip-driven tyranny” and restore genuine legislative deliberation.

The bill, Tewari’s third attempt after earlier introductions in 2010 and 2021, seeks to amend the Tenth Schedule so that MPs can be disqualified only if they defy the party whip on confidence motions, no-confidence motions, adjournment motions, money bills or financial matters. For all other bills and motions, the proposal would permit MPs to vote based on their judgement and constituency needs.

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