The Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha stated that it was up to the House to consider a private member's bill modifying the Constitution's Preamble, and that the Chair could not rule on the matter.
About the Issue:
A Rajya Sabha member proposed a Private Member bill to change the word "Socialist" with "Equitable” in the Preamble.
K.J. Alphons, a member, has claimed that the name "socialist" has "political overtones" and historical baggage that a huge segment of India does not find acceptable.
Opposition of the bill:
The motion to introduce a Bill on the subject was opposed by members of the opposition in the Rajya Sabha.
They maintained that because the Preamble is a part of the Constitution's core structure, the Bill should not be allowed to be introduced.
Opposition lawmakers also cited Rule 62 (2) of the Rules of Procedure, claiming that a bill that has not had the President's prior sanction or recommendation cannot be tabled in the House.
Decision of Deputy Chairman:
If the House so desires, a bill to change the Constitution's Preamble can be submitted, although the Chair does not have the authority to do so.
There have been times in the past when Private Members' Bills to modify the Preamble have been introduced.
About Private Member Bill:
A private member of parliament (MP) is a member of parliament who is not a minister.
Private Member's Bills are bills introduced by private members of Parliament.
