U T Khader Appointed to Key Parliamentary Committee on Anti-Defection Law
In a significant development, U T Khader has been appointed as a member of a parliamentary committee tasked with reviewing the Constitution's 10th Schedule. This schedule is crucial as it governs the anti-defection laws in India, which aim to prevent political defections and maintain stability in legislative bodies.
Committee Leadership and Composition
The committee was established by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and is chaired by Rahul Narwekar, the Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. Other notable members include Surama Padhy, the Speaker of Odisha, and Sharingain Longkumer, the Speaker of Nagaland. This diverse panel brings together experienced legislators from across the country to address issues related to political defections.
Role and Responsibilities of the Panel
The primary focus of this committee is to examine and potentially recommend amendments to the 10th Schedule of the Indian Constitution. This schedule outlines the provisions for disqualifying members of Parliament and state legislatures on grounds of defection, ensuring that elected representatives adhere to party discipline and voter mandates.
Key objectives of the committee include:
- Assessing the effectiveness of current anti-defection laws.
- Identifying loopholes or challenges in implementation.
- Proposing reforms to strengthen democratic processes and reduce political instability.
Background and Implications
U T Khader's appointment adds a valuable perspective from Karnataka, given his experience in state politics. The formation of this committee comes at a time when there is growing debate over the enforcement and impact of anti-defection laws in Indian politics. By involving speakers from multiple states, the panel aims to foster a comprehensive review that considers regional variations and national interests.
This move underscores the ongoing efforts to uphold constitutional integrity and enhance legislative accountability in India.
