The Centre’s proposed constitutional amendment allowing the automatic removal of the Prime Minister, Chief Ministers and ministers after 30 consecutive days in judicial custody is expected to dominate the Monsoon Session of Parliament, scheduled from July 20 to August 13. The session is also likely to witness sharp exchanges over Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s remarks on Operation Sindoor.
The government announced the session dates on Saturday after President Droupadi Murmu approved the proposal. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said both Houses would meet to deliberate on issues of national importance.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
A key focus will be the Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill, 2025, which is under examination by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC). The committee is expected to adopt its report on July 17, just days before Parliament reconvenes. According to reports, the JPC is unlikely to recommend dropping the provision that seeks to remove the Prime Minister, Chief Ministers and Union or state ministers from office if they remain in judicial custody for 30 consecutive days in cases involving serious offences.
However, the committee is expected to suggest safeguards aimed at preventing politically motivated arrests or misuse of the law. The proposal has triggered intense political debate since its introduction. Supporters argue it would improve accountability in public office, while critics contend it undermines the constitutional principle of “innocent until proven guilty” and could be exploited to destabilise elected governments.
The legislation faces a significant constitutional hurdle. Since it seeks to amend the Constitution, it must secure a special majority in both Houses under Article 368, followed by ratification from at least half of the state legislatures before receiving presidential assent.
Apart from the Bill, the Opposition is expected to pursue a breach-of-privilege motion against Rajnath Singh, accusing him of misleading Parliament during discussions on Operation Sindoor. The government has defended the minister, maintaining that his remarks have been quoted out of context.
With the NDA improving its numbers in Parliament after recent defections, the Monsoon Session is expected to test the ruling alliance’s ability to build consensus for major constitutional reforms.
