With differences over the Communal and Targeted Violence Bill, drafted by the NAC, dominating the National Integration Council meet, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Saturday assured the gathering that his government had no intention of tampering with the federal structure of the country.
The controversy over the proposed bill broke out prominently when the Trinamul Congress, a key UPA ally, joined hands with the BJP, Left and other NDA-ruled states’ CMs in opposing the proposed legislation. Even non-UPA states like Orissa, UP and Tamil Nadu disfavoured the bill in its present form alleging dilution of the federal structure of the Constitution.
Responding to their concerns, the PM said, “Let me assure that we are committed to the federal structure which has served the country well.” Quoting Dr Singh, Union home secretary R.K. Singh, briefing the media, said, “The PM said we have taken note of the views expressed in the meeting. We will examine them and whatever bill we will bring, it will be in accordance with the Constitution.”