All eyes are set on the Rajya Sabha, where the NDA government is in minority and is likely to face stiff opposition to ratify the controversial Prevention of Terrorism Ordinance (POTO). POTO was passed by the Lok Sabha on Monday. The government is also likely to go in for a Joint Session of Parliament if the Rajya Sabha rejects the legislation, in a last ditch effort to ensure smooth passage of the controversial Prevention of Terrorism Bill 2002.
Rajya Sabha was adjourned on Tuesday following the death of member Dayanand Sahay in a road mishap in Jehanabad, Bihar. The government has the support of the AIADMK and NCP and is likely to have that of the BSP as well on the Bill, which has been opposed tooth and nail by the Opposition parties, including the Congress and the Left.
Of the total strength of around 782 in both Houses, the NDA is likely to have the support of nearly 425, as the Trinamool Congress is likely to abstain. The Opposition would be left with around 350. The Bill, replacing the Prevention of Terrorism Ordinance (POTO), lapses on April 8, six weeks after commencement of the current session.
Bureau Report