Lokpal Bill: MPs noncommittal
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Talks of a conscience vote on the Lokpal Bill has begun among MPs, but the government remained noncommittal saying this issue has not come before it so far.
A senior Congress member in Lok Sabha said he would like to vote against the bill if the party leaves it to MPs. The member who does not want to be quoted, viewed the very concept of Lokpal violates the spirit of Constitution. Significantly, the Congress MPs are backing the Shiv Sena’s stand on it.
At an all-party meeting called by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on the Lokpal Bill here recently, UPA leaders were seen raising thumps, a gesture, supporting the Shiv Sena’s stand reiterated by Mr Anant Geete, an eye witness said.
The Congress has decided to issue a two line whip asking its MPs to remain present in the two Houses of parliament for four days — Monday to Thursday next week.
Asked whether the Lokpal Bill to be placed in the two Houses with some amendments, will be considered and passed, a Union minister remained noncommittal. ‘We will place the bill....” he said without explaining its fate.
Another Congress MP feared that the Lokpal Bill could be repealed like the Pota within next couple of years. “Today, we are bringing Lokpal, tomorrow it can be replaced by Dharampal.” Congress insiders said passing the bill will be a “collective madness”.
Asked what is the thinking in the Trinamul Congress about the talk of “conscience vote”, its leader said, “We are with the government on this issue. Whatever they decide, we will back them,” he said. The Trinamul Congress had earlier opposed to the FDI in retail and women’s reservation bill.
A senior Opposition leader disclosed that the government is planning to extend the current session till January 4 for consideration and passage of the Lokpal bill after a break from December 22. A Union minister said, “We don’t know why we are succumbing to the pressure tactics of Anna Hazare.”
The Lokpal Bill issue has not been discussed by political parties. This has become clear by confusion seen among MPs cutting across the party line, they are unsure of its consequences.
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