JPC to Uphold Clause Allowing Minister Removal After 30 Days in Custody
The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) examining the 130th Constitution Amendment Bill is likely to recommend no changes to the clause that provides for the removal of the Prime Minister, Chief Ministers or other Ministers from office if they are arrested and detained in custody for 30 consecutive days for serious offences.
After 10 rounds of meetings since December 2025, the draft report is expected to be circulated by July 10. The panel, chaired by BJP MP Aprajita Sarangi, is scheduled to meet on July 17 to finalise the report ahead of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, which begins on July 20.
A majority of the INDIA bloc members have boycotted the JPC proceedings, arguing that their viewpoints will not be accommodated given the ruling alliance’s numerical strength in the 31-member panel. The opposition has expressed concerns that the clause could be misused to target political adversaries.
According to sources, many members felt that the clause provides adequate time for seeking bail and is not violative of the principle of natural justice. At best, the committee is likely to issue a caveat to prevent misuse of the law, sources added. The caveat may include recommendations for safeguards to ensure the provision is not applied arbitrarily.
The 130th Constitution Amendment Bill seeks to amend constitutional provisions related to the tenure and removal of office holders. The JPC’s recommendation, if adopted, would mean that the clause remains as originally proposed. The report will be presented in Parliament during the Monsoon Session, where it will be debated and voted upon.
The opposition’s boycott of the JPC has raised questions about the inclusiveness of the legislative process. However, the government maintains that the committee has functioned within its mandate and that all views have been considered.
