PM, CM and Ministers to Come Under Purview of New Bill; Opposition Uproar in Parliament, Lok Sabha Adjourned

National News:Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday introduced three significant pieces of legislation in the Lok Sabha—the Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill, the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, and the Government of Union Territories (Amendment) Bill. Collectively, these bills seek to establish a fresh legal framework with wide-ranging implications for governance and accountability in the country.

Clause on Ministers’ Dismissal

Among the most debated provisions is a clause that states if a sitting minister, chief minister, or even the prime minister is arrested or detained for 30 consecutive days for an offense punishable with a jail term of five years or more, they would automatically lose their post within a month. However, the bill also allows for their reappointment once released from custody.

Owaisi Voices Strong Objection

The introduction of the bills sparked sharp opposition. AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi opposed the move, terming it a violation of constitutional principles. “This legislation undermines the separation of powers. It gives executive agencies the authority to act as judge, jury, and executioner. Such powers can destabilize elected governments,” Owaisi said, warning that the framework amounted to “creating a Gestapo.”

Uproar in the House

Following Owaisi’s remarks, opposition MPs erupted in protest, shouting slogans against the government. The noisy scenes disrupted proceedings and forced the Speaker to adjourn the House till 3 p.m. The uproar highlighted the deep divide between the ruling coalition and the opposition over the bills’ far-reaching consequences.

Government Defends the Proposal

Defending the move, the government maintained that the intention behind the legislation is to strengthen accountability in public life. According to ruling party sources, leaders holding constitutional offices should not continue in power if they face serious criminal charges coupled with prolonged detention. “This is about protecting the dignity of high offices and safeguarding public trust,” a senior BJP leader said.

Focus on J&K and Union Territories

Besides the contentious clause on ministers’ dismissal, the bills also propose structural changes in the governance of Jammu and Kashmir and Union Territories. While the government claims these changes will improve efficiency, opposition leaders fear they could lead to greater central control and weaken local autonomy.

Political Battle Ahead

As the monsoon session continues, the bills are expected to fuel heated debates inside and outside Parliament. Opposition parties insist the provisions could be weaponized for political vendettas, while the government argues they are crucial for clean politics. The coming days will reveal whether safeguards are introduced to address concerns or whether the bills pass in their current form, setting the stage for a high-voltage political confrontation.