Lokpal Bill: Debate Starts in Rajya Sabha

The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Bill, 2011, was moved for consideration and passage in Rajya Sabha on Thursday by Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs V Narayanasamy. The bill has already been passed by Lok Sabha late in the evening on Tuesday.

The UPA does not enjoy a majority in the Rajya Sabha. Several political parties, including certain UPA allies, are opposed to some provisions of the bill. “I hope that everyone will come around. We will have to carry everybody and pass the bill,” Union Minister Minister V Narayanasamy said. Starting a discussion in the House explaining the features of the bill, the minister said "I hope that everyone will come around. We will have to carry everybody and pass the bill." However, the Trinamool Congress was firm in its demand for deletion of Lokayukta provision from Lokpal Bill. It is likely to press for amendment in Rajya Sabha.

Trinamul, which has 6 members in the 243-member Upper House where the Congress and its allies do not have majority, wants removal of the provisions relating to the setting up of Lokayuktas in the state which is contained in the Bill passed by Lok Sabha. Mr. Narayanasamy said it has been made clear that the Lokayukta aspect will not come into force without consent of the state. Asked if the need for a Joint Session of Parliament for passage of Lokpal Bill would arise if it failed in Rajya Sabha, he said, "I don't visualise that situation." The debate on the bill is going on and it can not be confirmed at this stage whether it would get a clear passage or a joint session of both the Houses is required.