New Delhi: Rajya Sabha passed the Essential Defence Services Bill, 2021 on Thursday. The Bill was passed through voice vote. During the consideration and passing of the Bill, the Opposition created ruckus demanding discussion on Pegasus snooping row, farm laws, inflation, Covid crisis.
Rajnath Singh, Minister of Defence, while moving the Bill for passing, said employees are safeguarded under the Bill. The Bill is liable only for a period of one year. The decision for the corporatization of ordnance factory board has been taken. The Bill will be applicable when there is the need to invoke it and there are chances that we don't have to invoke the Bill.
Mallikarjun Kharge urged the Bill to be sent to the standing committee. Opposing the Bill, Communist Party of India (Marxist) MP Elamaram Kareem said it is draconian and prohibits workers' right to protest. He urged the Bill to be sent to select committee. Taking a jibe at the Centre, Fauzia Khan, Nationalist Congress Party MP asked how the nation's security is ensured by snooping.
The Bill permits the Union Government to prohibit strikes, lock-outs, and lay-offs in units indulged in essential defence services. The terms "essential defence services" and "strike" are defined under the Bill and disciplinary action such as dismissal of employees involving in protest can be taken. The penalty can also be imposed for illegal strikes.
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