'No more running govt from jail'; Union Min Amit Shah tables crucial bills amidst opposition furore

NEW DELHI: The controversial bill to disqualify the Prime Minister, Chief Minister and ministers who have served a jail term of 30 days for a serious crime, was introduced in the Lok Sabha amid opposition. The bill was referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC). The committee will submit its report in the next session of Parliament.

The opposition alleged an ulterior motive behind the bill to frame cases against leaders using central agencies and overthrow opposition-ruled governments in various states. They pointed out that the bill goes against the principle of non-punishment until proven guilty.

The House also witnessed a scuffle between the ruling and opposition. Trinamool members Kalyan Banerjee, Mahua Moitra and Mitali Bag tried to obstruct Amit Shah's presentation of the bill by entering into the well of the house. Mahua tore a piece of paper and threw it at the minister. Kalyan Banerjee also tried to climb onto his seat.

Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Ravneet Singh Bittu protected Amit Shah. The Speaker adjourned the House after the scuffle began. When it reconvened an hour later, Amit Shah moved from the first row to the third row and completed the presentation of the bill.

Congress member K.C. Venugopal asked whether Amit Shah was not imprisoned in a riot case during his tenure as Gujarat minister. Shah replied that he showed moral scruples to resign from his post despite being charged with a fake case. Shah said he returned to the post only after the court acquitted him.

• If a minister is imprisoned for 30 days for a crime punishable by imprisonment for at least five years, the Governor must remove him on the 31st day on the advice of the Chief Minister.

• Even if the Chief Minister does not suggest it, the person will lose his ministerial position. If the Chief Minister is imprisoned for 30 days, he must resign on the 31st day. Otherwise, he will be disqualified

• Union ministers will be removed by the President on the recommendation of the Prime Minister. Otherwise, he will be disqualified on the 31st day. If he is the Prime Minister, he must resign on the 31st day. Otherwise, he will be removed.

• There is no obstacle to being reappointed to the same position after being released from custody. However, custody time can last for months.

• The main allegation remains whether the bill would pave the way for disqualifying Chief Ministers and dismissing opposition governments.