FDI in retail in the Winter Session of Parliament Start

The Opposition looks to give a tough time to the UPA government over the issue of FDI in retail in the Winter Session of Parliament. However, the government is confident that it has the numbers. Here's a look at the possible scenarios in Parliament: Strength of Lok Sabha: 544 Half way mark: 272 UPA: 254 NDA: 152 Outside support to UPA: BSP+SP+RJD+JDS = 50 BSP VIEW If both the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party join the Trinamool Congress in opposing FDI in retail, the UPA will face embarrassment as it won't manage majority. However, this looks unlikely now with Mayawati telling the BSP MPs not to join the Opposition's protest against FDI in retail. TMC VIEW If the TMC opposes FDI and the SP and BSP abstain from voting, the effective strength of the Lok Sabha will come down. While the BSP has made it clear that it won't oppose FDI in retail, the SP has also been saying that it won't vote in favour of the BJP. GOVERNMENT VIEW If the government doesn't agree to debate with voting, the Opposition will ensure that no legislative business takes place. This seems to be the most likely scenario with the current situation.