Reading between the lines: Is Opposition’s protest on paper leaks also linked to Delimitation Bill?

As the Narendra Modi government works to secure the two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha required for constitutional amendments, is the Opposition sensing an opportunity in the NEET-UG paper leak issue to stall any move to introduce legislation linked to delimitation?

On Wednesday, NCP chief Sharad Pawar and his daughter, MP Supriya Sule, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, triggering fresh speculation on shifting political equations. The meeting followed indications that Opposition parties such as the NCP (SP) and the DMK might extend conditional support to the government’s delimitation proposal, thus strengthening the BJP-led NDA’s prospects of securing the numbers needed for constitutional amendments in the ongoing Monsoon Session.

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Political observers believe this may be the Congress’ best opportunity to slow the BJP-led government’s attempt to redraw Lok Sabha constituencies.

A constitutional amendment requires passage in both Houses of Parliament by a special majority—more than half of the total members in each House and a two-thirds majority of those present and voting. Crucially, the House must be functioning normally at the time of voting.

The government has an ambitious legislative agenda for the ongoing session, including several key Bills. While it is unlikely to face difficulty passing ordinary legislation with the support of allies and smaller parties, constitutional amendments present a more complex challenge.

The Opposition’s arithmetic has also changed since the last Parliament session. Parties such as the Trinamool Congress and the Shiv Sena (UBT), weakened by defections and internal rebellions over the past three months, may find it harder to back the INDIA bloc in blocking major legislative initiatives.

If parties such as the NCP (SP) or the DMK either support the government or abstain during voting, the government’s task could become significantly easier. Since constitutional amendments require the support of two-thirds of members present and voting—not the total strength of the House—abstentions, absences, or walkouts by Opposition parties would reduce the effective threshold, improving the government’s chance of securing passage.