The INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance) bloc is facing internal divisions regarding the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) formed to scrutinize bills proposing the removal of the Prime Minister, Chief Ministers, and other ministers if they are jailed for 30 consecutive days. While the Congress party is inclined to participate in the JPC to voice its opposition and record its objections, several other key members of the INDIA bloc, including the Trinamool Congress (TMC), Samajwadi Party (SP), Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), and Shiv Sena (UBT), have decided to boycott the committee, leading to a united walkout from Parliament.

The contentious bills, introduced by Home Minister Amit Shah, seek to amend the Constitution and the Government of Union Territories Act, along with the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act. These amendments would lead to the removal of top political executives if they are held in custody for 30 days for offenses that could result in a jail term of at least five years.

The Trinamool Congress has been the most vocal in its opposition to the JPC, calling it a "farce" and stating that it will not nominate any members. TMC's Rajya Sabha floor leader, Derek O'Brien, described the JPC as a "stunt" by the Modi government to distract from other issues. The Samajwadi Party has echoed TMC's sentiments, with sources indicating that they also believe joining the committee would be playing into the BJP's hands. Shiv Sena (UBT) is also contemplating staying away from the JPC. AAP MP Sanjay Singh stated that his party won't join JPC as it thinks the purpose of the bills is not to end corruption but to target Opposition leaders.

Congress leaders, however, believe that participating in the JPC is crucial to ensure that the opposition's views are documented and that the party can submit notes of dissent. They fear that boycotting the JPC would allow the ruling NDA (National Democratic Alliance) to dominate the proceedings and present a one-sided view. Congress is trying to persuade other INDIA bloc members, such as DMK, NCP-SP, RJD, and JMM, to join the JPC.

The differing opinions on the JPC reflect a broader debate within the INDIA bloc on how to effectively counter the BJP's legislative agenda. While some parties prioritize unity and a show of strength through boycotts, others believe in engaging with the parliamentary process to voice their concerns and influence the debate. Some smaller parties within the alliance have argued that the JPC is the only platform where the opposition can present an alternative case and register dissent.

This division within the INDIA bloc is not new. Previously, there have been differences in opinion on various issues, including participation in discussions during the introduction of bills. The current disagreement highlights the challenges of maintaining a united front among parties with diverse ideologies and strategies.

The passage of the constitutional amendment bill requires a two-thirds majority in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. The BJP-led NDA does not currently have this majority, making the support of other parties essential for the bill to pass. Whether the INDIA bloc can overcome its internal divisions and present a united opposition to the bill remains to be seen.