Pushing through the GST Bill

The Constitution Amendment Bill on the GST is set to test the House management skills of the Narendra Modi govt

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The Constitution Amendment Bill on the Goods and Services Tax (GST) is set to test the House management skills of the Narendra Modi government. Some members would have to be weaned away from those opposing the Bill in the Rajya Sabha, in case the Congress members are present in the House and vote against the Bill. However, if the Congress is absent and does not participate in voting, it would be a cakewalk for the government to push the Bill through. The case would be similar if the Congress members are present in the House and press the "abstain" button. The Congress, along with the AIADMK and the Left, are opposed to the Bill on various counts. The passage of the Bill requires a two-thirds majority of those present and voting. Here is a look at the numbers: