I would only tell Mr. Ayyangar, ‘Physician, heal thyself‘. Dr. Ambedkar mentioned that this is on a par with the adapted Section 291. But Section 291 specifically stated : ‘In so far as with respect to ……So the provision there is, ‘so far as provision is not made…….His Majesty can by order in Council do….‘ But this new clause gives unfettered power to the Governor-General. “The Governor-General may at any time by order make such amendments as he considers necessary by or under the provisions of this Act.” There is nothing in it which says “In so far as provision is not made…..” This is a very serious omission. I do not know how one can defend that slip. The other slip was with reference to West Bengal in the Statement of Objects and Reasons. I am sure the Bill, before it came before the House, must have been scrutinized by the Law Ministry. I wonder whether Dr. Ambedkar scrutinized it or some Under Secretary did so. Anyway the responsibility is that of the Law Minister. The argument adopted by him with regard to Section 291 and with regard to the Statement of Objects and Reasons, has no meaning. It is not an argument which should weigh with the House. He has put that argument forward to give succour to his colleague. Government does not seem to be working as a team. Somebody drafts a Bill and when it comes before the House, but not earlier, Dr. Ambedkar puts forward a laboured defence. This is not the way a Cabinet should function. They must work like a team. Otherwise they will have no face to show to the world. I hope in future they will put up a better show in this House so that the world may think better of them.
