JPC likely to retain 30-day custody clause for removal of PM, CMs; report expected on July 17
New Delhi, July 1
The Joint Parliamentary Committee examining the controversial 130th Constitution Amendment Bill is expected to adopt its report on July 17, with indications that it will retain the Bill's most debated provision mandating the automatic removal of the Prime Minister, Chief Ministers and Union or State ministers from office if they are arrested and remain in judicial custody for 30 consecutive days in cases involving serious offences.
According to the sources, "a meeting of the committee was held today and called again on 17th July. The committee is unlikely to recommend dropping the contentious clause despite concerns raised by several stakeholders during deliberations. However, the report is expected to include safeguards aimed at preventing the provision from being misused for political vendetta or motivated prosecutions.
The proposed amendment has triggered a sharp political debate, with supporters arguing that it would strengthen accountability in public office, while critics have warned that it could be exploited to destabilise elected governments through politically motivated investigations and arrests.
The JPC is expected to finalise and adopt its report at its meeting on July 17 before submitting it to Parliament for further consideration.
The committee's continuing nationwide outreach underscores Parliament's commitment to informed deliberation, broad-based consultation and participative engagement on issues central to India's democratic and federal framework.
Earlier in March, the Lok Sabha extended the tenure for the Joint Parliamentary Committee's report on the 'One Nation, One Election Bill', allowing the committee to submit its findings by the first day of the last week of the Monsoon Session in 2026.
The Constitution Amendment Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha in December 2024. The Bills were sent to the Joint Committee of both Houses for further examination.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Accountability is important, no doubt. But this feels like a sledgehammer to crack a nut. Our legal system is already slow, and the definition of "serious offences" needs to be crystal clear. Otherwise, this will just become another weapon for political rivalries. Let's hope the JPC adds real safeguards before finalizing. 🙏
Honestly, if you're in judicial custody for 30 days on a serious charge, how can you possibly run a government? The clause makes sense. The bigger issue is that opposition parties are crying foul only because they see their own leaders getting caught. Let's focus on cleaning up politics instead.
An interesting move towards accountability but the devil is in the details. The 30-day period seems arbitrary. In many countries, an accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty. This provision could be used to subvert democracy. I hope the committee introduces a judicial review step before removal.
The idea of "One Nation, One Election" and this clause being discussed together is concerning. It seems like a power grab. Why not focus on strengthening the judiciary first so that cases are resolved quickly? As it stands, a motivated case can destroy a political career even if the person is ultimately acquitted. This needs more debate.
Finally, some accountability for politicians! For too long, people in power have gotten away with everything. If you're innocent, prove it in court. 30 days in custody without being able to perform your duties means you can't serve the people. I support this step. 👍
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