Bill to Remove the Prime Minister / Chief Minister from Office upon Arrest in Criminal Cases

Key Features of the Bill

Constitutional Amendment:
130th Constitutional Amendment Bill (2025)

Who does it apply to?
Prime Minister
Chief Ministers
Ministers

When will removal occur?
In cases where the offence carries a punishment of at least 5 years or more
If arrested in such a case and remains in jail for more than 30 days
Automatic removal from office

Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC)

To examine this bill, a 31-member committee has been constituted.
Chairperson: Aparajita Sarangi

Functions of the Committee:
Collect opinions from all political parties
Consult with state governments
Prepare recommendations and submit a report to the Speaker of the Lok Sabha

Objectives of the Bill

Reduce criminalization of politics
Ensure good governance
Clean and strengthen democracy
Increase accountability

Related Concepts (Exam Link)

Politics and Crime → Important UPSC / TNPSC topic
Good Governance
Rule of Law
Public Trust Doctrine

Points of Concern (Critical View)

Removal before conviction is proven → Controversial
Possibility of political misuse
Action without a court verdict → Debatable issue

Summary

130th Constitutional Amendment Bill introduced in 2025
30 days of imprisonment in cases with punishment of 5+ years → Removal from office
JPC is reviewing and collecting opinions
Objective: Clean politics and strengthen democracy