A high-level meeting of the Committee of Presiding Officers was successfully held in Puri on April 21, 2026, to review the powers of Presiding Officers under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution of India. The deliberations aimed at strengthening the institutional framework governing anti-defection provisions in India’s parliamentary system.
Meeting Chaired by Maharashtra Speaker
The session was chaired by Rahul Suresh Narwekar, Hon’ble Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly and Chairman of the Committee.
Welcoming the participants, Surama Padhy, Speaker of the Odisha Legislative Assembly, highlighted the importance of the meeting in reinforcing democratic institutions and ensuring clarity in the interpretation of the Tenth Schedule.
Participation from Multiple States
The meeting saw participation from key legislative leaders, including:
- U.T. Khader Fareed
- Sharingain Longkumer
Senior administrative officials such as Satyabrata Rout, along with Secretaries from Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Nagaland Legislative Assemblies, also attended the meeting.
Legal Insights Strengthen Deliberations
Pitambar Acharya, Advocate General of Odisha, contributed valuable legal perspectives during the discussions, particularly on the interpretation and implementation of the Tenth Schedule provisions.
Focus on Strengthening Anti-Defection Framework
The Committee engaged in detailed deliberations on enhancing the effectiveness of the anti-defection law. Discussions focused on improving clarity, consistency, and procedural efficiency in handling disqualification matters under the Tenth Schedule.
Next Meeting Scheduled in Karnataka
Following productive discussions, the Committee decided to convene its next meeting in Karnataka after two months to continue its review process and finalize recommendations.
Commitment to Parliamentary Democracy
The meeting concluded on a positive note, reaffirming the collective commitment of Presiding Officers to uphold the principles of parliamentary democracy and ensure the effective functioning of constitutional provisions.
