DR. AMBEDKAR AND THE HINDU CODE BILL 961
are, and whether amendments to the amendments should be sent because that is what will form the main basis of discussion, namely the amendments of Dr. Ambedkar. These are the difficulties that are facing us. In order that the Code may go through the House properly and ultimately the decision of the House may be such as to evoke respect in the country, it is desirable that some time is given so that the amendments may be read. You will remember, Sir, that when the Bill was introduced and sent to the Select Committee there was a Select Committee report. After that Dr. Ambedkar sent a large number of amendments. On the one side we have the amendments, on the other side the Select Committee’s report; now, even those amendments are no more there-fresh amendments have been sent. All these are to be consolidated and placed in a manner in which they can be conveniently considered, and considered in a manner which the importance of the Code deserves. I think we should adopt some procedure by which these amendments can be considered carefully. I would also like the Law Minister to let the House know what is the latest decision of the Government with regard to the procedure to be adopted with regard to the Hindu Code.
Shri R. K. Chaudhari : I will put another question so that it may be answered along with this ...
Shri B. Das (Orissa) : May I submit, Sir. ...
Mr. Deputy Speaker : Nothing more.
So far as the amendments are concerned, a set of amendments were tabled by the Hon. Law Minister originally and subsequently to these amendments he has tabled another set of amendments.
The Minister of Law (Dr. Ambedkar) : A few—verbal.
Mr. Deputy Speaker : Even if they were substantial they have all been circulated as early as the 5th September. But if any hon. Member, during the course of the debate, move an amendment to any particular amendment, and if it is reasonable, we will consider it.
Dr. Ambedkar : Certainly, I have no objection.
Mr. Deputy Speaker : I am not going to be too technical with respect to those matters here. After all, the Hon. Minister has been saying that he would like to have as much as agreed solution to these problems as possible. Therefore, every efforts will be made on all sides of the House towards it. I shall never be wanting, if it is possible, in trying to smoothen and to get over the rules of procedure or to suspend standing orders for bringing about an amicable settlement so far as any clauses