Bills to Remove PM, CMs, Ministers If Detained for 30 Days
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to introduce three landmark bills in Parliament. These propose that the Prime Minister, Union ministers, Chief Ministers, and state/UT ministers must resign—or will be removed from office—if they are detained or arrested for 30 consecutive days on charges punishable by at least five years in prison.
Constitutional Amendments Proposed
The legislation seeks to amend key constitutional provisions—Articles 75, 164, and 239AA—to empower the President or Governor to dismiss an official held in custody for a month. For the PM and CMs, resignation by the 31st day or automatic removal is stipulated. Similar rules will apply to Union Territory ministers under laws like the J&K Reorganisation Act.
Reinstatement Possible After Release
A notable clause of the bills allows these officials to be reappointed to their posts after release from custody, ensuring continuity if they return to office.
Aimed at Restoring Public Trust
The proposed bills are framed as a step toward upholding “constitutional morality” and restoring faith in public office. Traditional practice only disqualifies officials upon conviction, but this initiative targets prolonged pre-trial detention—deemed sufficient grounds for removal—to reinforce integrity and accountability in politics.
