Subject: Polity
The Anti-Defection Law was enacted to prevent political defections and ensure stability in the legislative process. It lays down provisions under which legislators can be disqualified if they defect from their party. The 91st Amendment Act of 2003 further strengthened these provisions, aiming to curb opportunistic switching of parties.
In simple language, the law is intended to stop legislators from changing parties for personal gain, thereby protecting the mandate given by voters. Recent debates have centered on whether the law has been too strict or lenient, with some arguing that it stifles healthy dissent while others claim it is necessary for political stability.
The evaluation of the law involves looking at its impact on legislative accountability, party discipline, and the overall quality of democratic governance.