FDI in retail: BJP gives notice for suspension of Question Hour in Rajya Sabha

New Delhi: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders Prakash Javadekar and Venkaiah Naidu have given a notice for the suspension of Question Hour in the Rajya Sabha and discussion on FDI under rule 184 which entails voting. This was decided at the BJP Parliamentary party meeting on Tuesday.

The deadlock in Parliament over FDI in multi-brand retail continues. After Monday's inconclusive all-party meet, the UPA coordination committee will meet on Tuesday to discuss the provision of voting. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, too, will meet Congress allies on the issue.

Sources say the government is against having a vote, but if forced to do so, it is sure of the support of the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party. Sources say the DMK is against FDI in retail but doesn't want voting, while other allies like the RLD, NCP and the National Conference are with the government for a discussion without vote.

The BJP is demanding a discussion followed by vote on FDI in retail in Parliament.

However, sources say that the government is worried that if it sticks to it's stand of no vote, the deadlock in Parliament will continue. This is not something the government wants because it needs to pass important bills like insurance, banking and Lokpal to get over its policy paralysis and keep reforms on track. Sources say the government will convey its decision to the Speaker and the Opposition soon.

Also See

• UPA looks to end deadlock over FDI, to meet to discuss provision of voting

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