August 6 last date for parties to seek rebels' disqualification

New Delhi: Political parties have until August 6 to push for the disqualification of their rebel lawmakers whose actions facilitated the ruling coalition's survival in the crucial trust vote on Tuesday. At least 24 lawmakers belonging to 11 political parties had either indulged in cross-voting or remained absent without permission. The principal opposition Bharatiya Janata Party was hit hardest with eight of its MPs defying the party whip. The respective parties have since expelled the renegades but the action does not invite disqualification from the Lok Sabha. Parties are required to make a written request to the presiding officer seeking the disqualification of lawmakers within 15 days of the failure to abide by the party whip. Failing such a request within the specified time, it is assumed that the breach of discipline... [read full story]