Union Home Minister Amit Shah has accused the opposition of exhibiting a double standard in their response to the 130th Amendment Bill, which is designed to ensure greater accountability for high-ranking government officials. Shah stated that the Congress party’s actions have shown a pattern of trying to keep Prime Ministers outside the purview of the law. In contrast, Shah asserted that the BJP is committed to ensuring all its leaders, including the Prime Minister, are subject to the law. Shah pointed to Indira Gandhi’s past constitutional amendments that protected her from legal challenges as a precedent for the Congress’s approach.
Shah outlined the details of the bill, which includes measures to prevent individuals from holding high constitutional offices, such as Prime Minister or Chief Minister, while incarcerated. He described the bill as an attempt to improve ethical standards. The key points are:
1. Individuals in jail cannot be Prime Minister, Chief Minister or Minister.
2. Acknowledging that the constitution did not anticipate leaders continuing to hold office after arrest.
3. Requiring arrested leaders to obtain bail within 30 days or be removed from office.
Shah emphasized that Prime Minister Modi, by presenting the amendment, is aiming to ensure greater accountability, whereas the Congress-led opposition opposes the move to avoid being subject to legal processes. He recalled the 39th Constitutional Amendment implemented by Indira Gandhi. Shah addressed comments from a Congress leader, clarifying he resigned before his arrest. He also noted that he only took up a constitutional role after being fully acquitted by the courts.
Shah emphasized the BJP and the NDA’s commitment to upholding high moral standards. He mentioned the resignation of BJP leader LK Advani after accusations were made against him. Shah then criticized the Congress for following what he considered to be the unethical legacy of Indira Gandhi. He added that despite plans to send the bill to a joint parliamentary committee, the opposition is still opposing it, exposing their true stance to the nation.