REPRESENTATION OF THE PEOPLE (NO. 2) BILL - Page 620

PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 603

either the words “and vital” be added, or the words “which is not of a substantial character” be omitted. A technical defect is understandable.

I now come to my second amendment. I beg to move:

In sub-clause (5) of clause 34, omit the words “or obstructed by riot or open violence”.

Why should we limit the obstruction of the proceedings to only riot and open violence ? I think it is very tantalising, Sir, to refer to only two causes. There might be a variety of causes by which the proceedings may be interrupted. Hence I suggest the deletion of these words. In fact this is in my view an invitation to riot and open violence, if some candidate chooses to do it.

Shri Sidhva: What about a cyclone ?

Dr. Ambedkar: That would be covered under “causes beyond his control”.

Dr. Deshmukh: If you omit the words “or obstructed by riot or open violence or” I do not think any harm would be done. I therefore hope that both of my amendments will be accepted.

Mr. Chairman : Amedment moved :

In sub-clause (4) of clause 34, after the word “substantial” insert the words “and vital”.

In sub-clause (5) of clause 34, omit the words “or obstructed by riot or open violence or”.

Dr. Ambedkar: I do not accept them.

Shri Meeran: I have two amendments to this clause— Nos. 343 and 349 in the Consolidated List.

Mr. Chairman: May I know whether the Hon. Minister is prepared to accept any of them ?

Dr. Ambedkar: I am not accepting any amendment.

*P. D., Vol. 12, Part II, 19th May 1951, pp. 9168-69,