SHIMLA: Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said the the amendment to the anti-defection Bill in the Vidhan Sabha aims to stop pensions for defected MLAs, aiming to uphold democracy and morality in politics.
The amendment to the anti-defection law was passed by the Himachal Pradesh Vidhan sabha.
Sukhu emphasized that MLAs switching parties after being elected on a party symbol undermine democracy.
He stressed the need for transparency, honesty, and loyalty to party principles, proposing that defected leaders should lose their pensions as a consequence.
He referred to the anti-defection law as essential for maintaining democratic values, adding that the bill ensures those betraying the party's mandate are penalized.
Sukhu also pointed to recent incidents where elected representatives left their parties, leading to disruptions and delays in legislative processes.
Meanwhile, BJP leaders criticized the bill as politically motivated.
They accused the ruling Congress party of trying to settle scores with rival politicians under the guise of democratic reforms.
Sukhu concluded by stating that this move will fortify political morality and prevent "Aya Ram, Gaya Ram" incidents from recurring.
Vikramaditya Singh Defends Anti-Defection Bill Amendment
Vikramaditya Singh, speaking to a TV channel strongly defended the Himachal Pradesh government's amendment to the anti-defection law.
He highlighted the move as a necessary step to curb horse trading and prevent political instability in the state. Singh pointed out that during subsequent by-elections, Congress candidates regained the trust of voters, showing public disapproval of defections.
Singh stated, "We have a high standard of politics and morality in Himachal Pradesh, and this bill sets things straight."
He reiterated that the bill isn't a punitive measure but rather a deterrent for the future, ensuring that legislators who switch sides will no longer enjoy perks as MLAs.
Refuting claims of political insecurity within the Congress, Singh added that the government remains confident, citing their victory in six of nine by-elections.
He emphasized that horse trading, though common in other states, had never been a part of Himachal's political landscape, and the bill was introduced to preserve the state's integrity.
On the state's financial situation, Singh acknowledged Himachal Pradesh's growing debt, inherited from previous BJP and Congress governments. He stressed the need for strong fiscal management and bipartisan efforts to navigate out of the financial mess.
When asked if the bill would face legal challenges, Singh responded that the Himachal government was within its rights as lawmakers to propose the amendment.
He maintained that the legislation was a proactive measure to address loopholes in the existing anti-defection laws, serving as an example for the rest of the country.
Concluding his remarks, Singh expressed disappointment over the lack of central support during Himachal's recent disasters, calling for a more collaborative relationship between state and central governments, irrespective of party lines.
