A parliamentary panel reviewing the Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill recommended replacing the “automatic removal” of jailed leaders after 30 days with “suspension.” The change follows Opposition boycotts of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) examining the legislation, citing concerns over “malicious intent” and potential political misuse of investigative agencies.
The committee suggests using “suspension” rather than “removal” or “cease to be a Minister” to prevent the stigma of guilt before a conviction.
Suspended functionaries would be automatically reinstated if acquitted, discharged, or if the prosecution fails to proceed in a timely manner.
The trigger applies to “serious criminal offences” punishable by 5 or more years of imprisonment, with a specific schedule for these offenses recommended to be drawn up.
The panel has also proposed the creation of fast-track courts to specifically handle cases concerning high constitutional functionaries.
As per Congress MP Jairam Ramesh the party is fully prepared to strongly oppose what he called the government’s “2-D” agenda delimitation and dismissal.
He accused the BJP of trying to reshape the country’s political landscape through these measures…
The proposed constitutional amendment seeks to address a perceived vacuum regarding leaders who continue to govern from prolonged incarceration, though the trigger mechanism remains heavily disputed.
News Edit KV Raman
