Chandigarh Bill to FDTL pause: NDA 3.0 opts for consultative approach

New Delhi: In a marked shift from the assertive law-making approach of its previous term, the NDA government in its third term has adopted a more flexible, consultative legislative approach as it withdraws controversial proposals, pauses policy submissions and sends politically sensitive bills for deeper scrutiny.

In the last ten days, the Center has backtracked on several measures, including withdrawal of the Chandigarh Constitution Amendment Bill following objections from political parties in Punjab, including the BJP. A proposal to require pre-installation of the Sanchar Sarthi app on smartphones to prevent cyber fraud has also been put on hold following privacy concerns raised by digital rights groups and industry bodies over potential surveillance risks. The government also postponed the implementation of revised Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) norms for pilots after IndiGo’s mass flight cancellations left passengers stranded at airports. Airlines argued that immediate enforcement would disrupt operations and worsen crew shortages.

This line of recalibration coincides with a clearer willingness to engage in parliamentary debate. In stark contrast to the previous period, when controversial laws such as the three farm laws, the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and legislation criminalizing instant triple talaq were introduced despite stiff opposition, the government is now sending major proposals for the committee’s consideration. The three farm laws were later repealed following nationwide protests. Politically sensitive bills, such as the Foundation Amendment Bill and the 130th Constitutional Amendment Bill, were referred to parliamentary committees for detailed scrutiny. The government also agreed to a full debate on electoral reforms this session, signaling that it is open to bipartisan participation. Many see this consultative stance as preparation for building consensus on the upcoming Atomic Energy Bill.
While opposition parties attribute this shift to the shrinking of the NDA’s majority, officials insist it reflects a deliberate effort to broaden support for reforms. In both cases, the government’s third term will be noticeably more cautious, compromise-oriented and responsive to stakeholders’ concerns. According to PRS Legislative Research, only 16% of bills in the previous Lok Sabha were referred to standing committees. In the current Lok Sabha, this figure has risen to 27%, underscoring the government’s new legislative moderation.