Letters: The other way to pass a bill

The editorial "Laying down new law" (May 6) talks about a provision for the renewal and lapse of existing laws. This is a thoughtful proposal that should be complemented with provisions to expedite the passage of new bills. This can be achieved if the Rajya Sabha's role is moulded from an approving body to a disapproving body (for bills passed by the Lok Sabha and seeking approval in Rajya Sabha). A bill will then require to be rejected by a defined majority, with or without recommendations and in a stipulated time period, to get rescinded. Otherwise, it will be deemed to be passed. This way, the vote of MPs will be unequivocal and their abstaining from voting will not be a reason for the lapse of a bill.

Ayush Jain Roorkee

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