Nut GrafDiplomatic boycotts of the Olympics aim to snub host nations while keeping athletes free to compete. Refusing to participate in the Olympics would raise awareness of the violations that China stands accused of.
Category: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE
1. RS debates use of private Bills to amend Preamble to Constitution
Syllabus: Constitution of India—significant provisions and basic structure; Parliament— functioning,
Prelims: Private Bills, Preamble
Mains: Amending the Preamble of the Constitution; Procedure of Private member’s bill
Context:
Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman said it was up to the House to take up a private member’s bill on amending the Preamble of the Constitution and the Chair cannot give a ruling on the issue.
What is the Issue?
- A Rajya Sabha member introduced a Private Member bill that seeks to replace the word “Socialist” with “Equitable” in the Preamble.
- The member K.J. Alphons has argued that the term “socialist” has “political connotations” and carries historical baggage that need not be acceptable to a large section of India.
Why was the Bill opposed?
- Opposition members in Rajya Sabha had opposed the motion to introduce a Bill on the subject.
- They had argued that Preamble is part of the basic structure of the Constitution and the Bill may not be allowed for introduction.
- Opposition members also referred to Rule 62 (2) of the Rules of Procedure and contended that such a bill, which did not have the previous sanction or recommendation of the President, cannot be introduced in the House.
What is the ruling given by the Deputy Chairman?
- A Bill to amend the Preamble of the Constitution can be introduced if the House so decides but the Chair does not have the powers to do so.
- There are instances where Private Members’ Bills to amend the Preamble have been moved in the past.
