Indian MPs move to suspend parliamentary business for anti-defection law and Mekedatu reservoir debates

Congress MP Manish Tewari submitted an Adjournment Motion in the Lok Sabha seeking suspension of Question Hour, Zero Hour and other listed business on July 21 to discuss a new anti‑defection law. In his notice he urged that the law "proscribe Mass Political Defections driven by opportunism … while simultaneously providing space for honest and critical dissent".

DMK Rajya Sabha MP Tiruchi Siva filed a Rule 267 notice to halt the day's business in the Upper House on the same date, requesting discussion of the proposed Mekedatu Balancing Reservoir on the Cauvery River, its impact on Tamil Nadu and the establishment of a tribunal. He asked for the suspension of Rules 15, 23 and 51 and other listed business, describing the issue as of "urgent importance". Both moves are part of the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament, which runs until August 13.