What is the purpose of the Tenth Schedule and why is it important

The Tenth Schedule, also known as the Anti-Defection Law, was added to the Constitution of India in 1985. Its purpose is to curb political defections by legislators to ensure stability and uphold democratic principles.

• Prevention of Defections: The Tenth Schedule aims to prevent elected representatives from switching parties for personal gain or to exploit political circumstances.
• Disqualification: It states that if a legislator voluntarily gives up the membership of their party, or votes against the official party whip, they can be disqualified as a member of the legislature.
• Preserving Stability: The law helps maintain political stability by discouraging sudden changes in government and preventing elected representatives from undermining the mandate of the voters.
• Encouraging Party Discipline: The Tenth Schedule promotes party discipline and prevents elected representatives from engaging in opportunistic behavior that might harm the party's functioning and governance.
• Ensuring Democracy: By deterring defections, the law seeks to uphold the democratic principles of party loyalty, accountability, and the representation of the people's will.

In summary, the Tenth Schedule plays a crucial role in maintaining political stability, integrity, and discipline in the Indian democratic system by curbing defections and promoting party loyalty among elected representatives.