Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 25: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday strongly criticized the Opposition for obstructing the introduction of key legislation, including the Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill, 2025, asserting that such actions go against democratic norms.

In an interview, Shah expressed concern over the Opposition’s protests in Parliament, saying, “Both Houses are meant for debate and discussion—not chaos and disruption.” He emphasized that refusing to even allow a bill to be introduced sets a dangerous precedent and is “not appropriate behaviour in a democracy.”

Shah took aim at parties like the Trinamool Congress and Samajwadi Party, who have declined participation in the proposed Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for the bill. He noted that the government had made efforts to involve all political groups, and if some chose to boycott the JPC, “there is no alternative left.”

The Home Minister clarified that the bill is not targeted at any opposition party or individual and that Chief Ministers in BJP-ruled states would also be covered under its provisions. He insisted the public is being misled by claims that the law protects ruling party leaders from legal consequences.

Shah explained that the bill proposes that if bail is not granted to a tainted minister within 30 days, they would be required to resign from their position. If they receive bail later, they may retake the oath of office. Courts remain the ultimate authority on bail decisions, ensuring a legal safeguard against misuse.

Addressing concerns about fairness, Shah reminded that the Representation of the People Act has long stated that elected officials sentenced to two or more years in prison lose their positions. “This isn’t a new provision,” he said, adding that since Independence, leaders have resigned on moral grounds when implicated in wrongdoing.

He contrasted this with a growing trend where leaders refuse to step down despite being jailed, citing examples from Tamil Nadu and Delhi. Shah questioned the practical implications of such defiance: “Will secretaries, DGPs, or chief secretaries go to jail to take orders from them?”

The Home Minister concluded by urging the Opposition to act responsibly, engage in debate, and stop misguiding the public about legislation meant to uphold accountability and ethics in public office.