NEW DELHI: In a significant show of unity, allies of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) came out in strong support of three crucial bills during a heated debate in the Lok Sabha on Friday, reinforcing the government’s push for structural political reforms.
Among the prominent voices backing the legislation was the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), with its floor leader Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu confirming the party’s support. He stated that the decision was based on assurances provided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding fair implementation of delimitation and enhanced representation for women.
Devarayalu highlighted Shah’s earlier remarks in Parliament, which indicated a proposed 50% proportionate increase in Lok Sabha seats across states. As per these projections, the number of seats in Andhra Pradesh could rise from 25 to 38, addressing long-standing demands for greater representation.
The Janata Dal (Secular) also threw its weight behind the bills, with former Karnataka Chief Minister H. D. Kumaraswamy dismissing opposition criticism as unfounded. He accused the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) of spreading fear by suggesting that southern states would be disadvantaged under the proposed changes. Kumaraswamy argued that such claims were misleading and politically motivated.
He further took aim at the Indian National Congress, stating that the party appeared disconnected from grassroots realities and ill-prepared to respond to evolving political reforms.
Other NDA allies echoed similar sentiments during the debate. Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh emphasized that the amendment bills were not introduced hastily, pointing out that the government had spent nearly three years laying the groundwork before bringing them to Parliament.
Meanwhile, Union Minister Anupriya Patel described the proposed legislation as a historic opportunity to reshape India’s democratic framework. She urged lawmakers across party lines to rise above political differences and support the bills in the national interest.
The coordinated backing from NDA allies signals a strong parliamentary push for the bills, even as opposition parties continue to raise concerns. The developments underscore the coalition’s commitment to advancing electoral reforms and expanding representation, setting the stage for a decisive legislative outcome in the coming days.