In a powerful address during the Parliament Monsoon Session, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent a clear message: public officials facing serious criminal charges and held in custody should not retain power. His remarks come amid the introduction of the Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill, 2025, which seeks to disqualify ministers, including Chief Ministers and the Prime Minister, if detained for over 30 consecutive days on serious charges.
What the Anti-Graft Bill Proposes
The proposed legislation aims to:
- Amend Article 75 of the Constitution to enforce automatic removal of ministers detained for serious offences.
- Apply to over 2,000 criminal offences with punishments of five years or more.
- Require detained officials to secure bail within 30 days or vacate their post.
PM Modi’s Statement
PM Modi questioned the fairness of allowing top leaders to govern from jail:
“If a small government employee is jailed for 50 hours, he gets suspended. But a CM or PM can enjoy power from jail. How fair is that?”
He emphasized the need for constitutional morality and public trust, urging citizens to reflect on whether such practices align with democratic values.
Political Reactions & Concerns
While the bill has sparked support for greater accountability, critics warn of potential misuse:
- Opposition leaders argue it could be weaponized to destabilize rival governments before elections.
- Legal experts caution that detention without conviction undermines the principle of “innocent until proven guilty”.
Implications for Governance
If passed, the bill could:
- Set a new precedent for political accountability.
- Prevent misuse of public office during criminal proceedings.
- Trigger legal and political debates over the balance between justice and due process.
