91st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2003
Closing the "Split" Loophole
The original 1985 law permitted a "split" (para 3) whereby one-third of a legislative party's members could break away without facing disqualification. This provision was widely abused to trigger floor crossings and topple governments.
- Omitted by the 91st Amendment, 2003 (effective 2004).
- After 2003, the only valid escape from disqualification is a merger (Para 4) — which requires two-thirds support, not one-third.
- Anti-defection provisions now apply to the total strength of the legislative party, not just those present and voting.
● Tracked since April 24, 2026 · last seen August 04, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
See it in today’s brief.
Daily current affairs with every static concept explained in place.
Read the daily brief