New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed confidence that the Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill, 2025, will pass despite strong opposition criticism.
The bill proposes the automatic removal of the Prime Minister, Chief Ministers, and Ministers if they are arrested and detained for 30 consecutive days on charges carrying five years or more of imprisonment. It has been referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) of 31 members from both houses, which will examine it and make recommendations before a vote.
Speaking to news agencies, Shah defended the legislation, saying it aims to uphold “constitutional morality” and public trust. He emphasized that it applies equally to all leaders, including those from the ruling party.
“I am sure it will be passed. Many in the Congress and opposition will support morality and maintain the moral ground,” he said.
Shah highlighted that even the Prime Minister would be subject to the amendment. “Earlier, Indira Gandhi brought the 39th Amendment to protect the President, VP, PM, and Speaker from judicial review. Narendra Modi ji has now brought an amendment that if the Prime Minister goes to jail, he must resign,” Shah explained.
The bill has sparked intense debate, with opposition parties alleging political motives to destabilize non-BJP governments. Shah dismissed claims that it could be used to pressure courts for delayed bail.
“Our courts understand the seriousness of the law. If one must resign after 30 days, the court will decide on bail before that. No CM, Minister, or PM can run the government from jail,” he said, referring to past discussions around Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.
Shah stressed that the bill does not target any specific party or leader and that courts act as a safeguard against misuse. He cited examples from the UPA era, noting that courts had directed investigations in multiple cases.
On Kejriwal, Shah noted, “He received bail within 30 days, and he should have resigned then. Now, he will have to resign lawfully.” He also clarified that the bill ensures fairness: any leader who secures bail—even after 30 days—can retake the oath and return to office.
Addressing the Trinamool Congress’s boycott of the JPC, Shah said the government has extended a fair chance for participation. “We are asking them to join. If they refuse, there is nothing more we can do. The public is watching,” he added.
Shah underscored the importance of the JPC in reflecting all parties’ views. “This is an important bill. Every party should have its opinion heard. Even if the opposition doesn’t support it for the next four years, the country will continue functioning. We are only allowing them to share their views,” he said.
