Chandigarh Bill to FDTL pause: NDA 3.0 opts for consultative approach

New Delhi: In a marked shift from the assertive lawmaking in its previous term, the NDA government in its third term has shown a more flexible, consultative legislative approach while withdrawing contentious proposals, pausing policy rollouts, and sending politically sensitive bills for deeper scrutiny.

Over the past ten days, the Centre has stepped back on several measures, including the withdrawal of the Constitution Amendment Bill on Chandigarh after objections from political parties in Punjab, including the BJP. The proposal to mandate pre-installation of the Sanchar Sarthi app on smartphones - intended to curb cyber fraud - was also put on hold following privacy concerns raised by digital-rights groups and industry bodies over potential surveillance risks. The government also postponed implementation of the revised Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) norms for pilots after mass flight cancellations by IndiGo left passengers stranded across airports. Airlines argued that immediate enforcement would disrupt operations and worsen crew shortages.

This streak of recalibration coincides with a clearer willingness to engage in a parliamentary debate. In stark contrast to its previous term - when controversial laws such as the three farm laws, the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, and the legislation criminalising instant triple talaq were pushed through despite stiff opposition - the government is now sending major proposals for committee review. The three farm laws were later repealed after nationwide protests. Politically sensitive bills such as the Waqf Amendment Bill and the 130th Constitution Amendment Bill have been referred to parliamentary committees for detailed examination. The government has also agreed to a full debate on election reforms this session, signalling openness to bipartisan engagement. Many see this consultative posture as preparation for building consensus on the upcoming Atomic Energy Bill.


Opposition parties attribute the shift to the NDA's reduced majority, while officials insist it reflects a deliberate effort to broaden support for reforms. Either way, the government's third term is visibly more cautious, consensus-oriented, and responsive to stakeholder concerns. According to PRS Legislative Research, only 16% of bills in the previous Lok Sabha were referred to standing committees. In the current Lok Sabha, that figure has risen to 27% underscoring the government's new legislative moderation.