Lokpal debate begins in RS; TMC firm against lokayuktas
29 Dec 2011
The government today introduced the Lokpal bill for setting up a central corruption watchdog in the Rajya Sabha. The Lok Sabha had yesterday passed the bill.
Minister of state for parliamentary affairs V Narayanasamy moved the Lokpal and Lokayuktas bill 2011 for consideration and passage in the house.
The minister started a discussion in the house explaining the features of the bill.
The ruling United Progressive Alliance government does not have a majority in the upper house, which makes the passage of the bill in its present form far from certain. Several political parties, including some UPA partners, are opposed to various provisions of the bill.
The government hoped that all parties would come around and help in its passage so that the question of convening a joint session of Parliament does not arise.
"I hope that everyone will come around. We will have to carry everybody and pass the bill," Narayanasamy said while moving the bill.
