BJP Attempts to Secure Support from NCP (SP) and DMK for 131st Constitution Amendment Bill

New Delhi, India Jul 15, 2026 ALN: Congress leader P Chidambaram has alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is actively seeking the support of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) for the 131st Constitution Amendment Bill. This bill is set to be introduced during the upcoming Monsoon session of Parliament, and Chidambaram has urged both regional parties to refrain from backing it.

Chidambaram emphasized that any endorsement of this new iteration of the bill, which he described as a "failed Bill" from the last parliamentary session, would represent a "betrayal" of the principles that have guided the NCP (SP) and DMK in the past. He made these remarks in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Tuesday.

"The BJP is planning to reintroduce the 131st Constitution Amendment Bill that did not pass in the last session of Parliament in April 2026," Chidambaram stated. He expressed concern that the BJP's strategy to garner support from these parties could undermine their political integrity.

Chidambaram's comments come amid a backdrop of political maneuvering as the BJP seeks to consolidate its position ahead of the parliamentary session. The 131st Constitution Amendment Bill has been a contentious issue, and its previous failure has raised questions about its viability and the motivations behind its reintroduction.

As the Monsoon session approaches, the dynamics between the BJP, NCP (SP), and DMK will be closely monitored, with potential implications for the legislative agenda and party alliances. Chidambaram's call for these parties to reject the bill reflects broader concerns about the impact of such legislative changes on regional politics and governance.

In conclusion, the political landscape is shifting as parties prepare for the upcoming session, and the response of the NCP (SP) and DMK to the BJP's overtures will be pivotal in shaping the future of the 131st Constitution Amendment Bill.

The 131st Constitution Amendment Bill is part of a series of legislative measures that have been introduced by the BJP government in recent years, which aim to amend various aspects of the Indian Constitution. These amendments often spark significant debate among political parties, particularly when they relate to issues of federalism, state powers, and individual rights. The reintroduction of this bill, which did not pass in the previous session, indicates a renewed effort by the BJP to push its agenda and secure a legislative victory that could solidify its standing in Parliament.

Historically, the BJP has faced challenges in gaining support from regional parties, particularly those like the NCP and DMK, which have their own distinct political ideologies and voter bases. The NCP, founded in 1999, has been a significant player in Maharashtra politics, while the DMK has a long-standing influence in Tamil Nadu. Both parties have traditionally positioned themselves as defenders of regional interests against what they perceive as central overreach by the BJP-led government.

Chidambaram's remarks highlight the delicate balance of power in Indian politics, where regional parties often play a crucial role in shaping national policy. The Congress party, which has historically been one of the major political forces in India, is keenly aware of the implications of the BJP's attempts to court these regional parties. By urging the NCP and DMK to reject the bill, Chidambaram aims to reinforce a united front among opposition parties, which could be essential in countering the BJP's legislative agenda.

The potential implications of the 131st Constitution Amendment Bill are significant. If passed, it could alter the balance of power between the central government and state governments, impacting how laws are formulated and implemented across the country. Such changes could lead to increased centralization of power, which has been a point of contention among various political factions. Critics argue that this could undermine the federal structure of India, which is designed to allow states a degree of autonomy in governance.

Moreover, the timing of the bill's reintroduction during the Monsoon session is strategically important. This session typically sees heightened political activity, as parties aim to address pressing issues before the end of the parliamentary year. The BJP, having a majority in the Lok Sabha, may see this as an opportune moment to push through legislation that aligns with its broader political objectives.

In addition to the immediate political ramifications, the reintroduction of the 131st Constitution Amendment Bill also raises questions about the future of coalition politics in India. The BJP's outreach to the NCP and DMK could signal a shift in its strategy to form alliances with regional parties, which have historically been wary of the BJP's centralizing tendencies. If successful, this could lead to a realignment of political forces in the country, potentially reshaping the landscape ahead of future elections.

As the Monsoon session approaches, the reactions of the NCP and DMK will be closely scrutinized. Their decision to support or oppose the bill could have lasting implications for their political futures, as well as for the broader opposition coalition in Parliament. A united opposition could pose a significant challenge to the BJP's legislative agenda, while a fractured response might embolden the ruling party to pursue its objectives more aggressively.

Ultimately, the outcome of the 131st Constitution Amendment Bill will not only impact the immediate legislative agenda but also set the tone for future political interactions between the central government and regional parties. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the actions taken by the NCP, DMK, and other regional parties will be critical in shaping the direction of Indian politics in the coming years.

The bill's content itself has not been disclosed in detail, but it is expected to address specific areas of the Constitution that have been contentious in past discussions. Issues such as the distribution of powers between the Centre and states, the rights of citizens, and the mechanisms of governance are likely to be at the forefront of the debate surrounding this amendment. The BJP's previous attempts at similar amendments have often been met with resistance from opposition parties, which argue that such changes could infringe upon the rights of states and weaken the federal structure established by the Constitution.

The NCP and DMK's historical positions on issues of federalism and state rights further complicate the BJP's attempts to garner their support. Both parties have consistently advocated for the preservation of state autonomy and have criticized the central government's perceived overreach into state matters. This ideological divide may play a crucial role in their decision-making process regarding the 131st Constitution Amendment Bill.

Furthermore, the political implications of this bill extend beyond the immediate legislative session. Should the BJP succeed in passing the amendment with the support of regional parties, it could embolden the party to pursue further legislative changes that align with its broader vision for governance in India. This could lead to a significant shift in the political landscape, impacting not only the current opposition but also future electoral dynamics as parties recalibrate their strategies in response to the changing political environment.

In summary, the BJP's attempts to secure support from the NCP and DMK for the 131st Constitution Amendment Bill represent a critical moment in Indian politics. The reactions of these regional parties will be closely watched as they navigate the complexities of their political identities and the pressures of national politics. The outcome of this legislative effort will likely have far-reaching consequences for the balance of power in India, the nature of coalition politics, and the future of federalism in the country.