Madhya Pradesh Congress Chief Critiques Rijiju on Amendment Bill

Madhya Pradesh Congress President Jitu Patwari has criticized Union Minister Kiren Rijiju over remarks made regarding the Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill during a recent press conference. Patwari characterized Rijiju’s comments as mere excuses, emphasizing that despite the introduction of various laws under the Lokayukta, questions remain about the effectiveness of these measures.

Patwari voiced his frustration, pointing out that a minister from Rajasthan faced punishment yet Prime Minister Narendra Modi has remained silent on the issue. He stated, “These are all just excuses. A minister has been punished in Rajasthan, and yet PM Modi has visited the state multiple times without addressing the situation.” He specifically mentioned the case of Jinesh Mishra, a minister in Bihar, arguing that his continued position is untenable given the circumstances.

Earlier, on August 23, 2023, Kiren Rijiju described the Constitution Amendment Bill as “revolutionary” and called for opposition support. He noted that the Bill includes provisions for the removal of the Prime Minister, Chief Ministers, and other ministers if they are detained for serious offences. Rijiju highlighted that PM Modi chose not to exempt himself from these provisions, asserting that the Prime Minister should also be accountable under the law.

In an interview with ANI, Rijiju reiterated the significance of the Bill, stating, “PM Modi told the cabinet that the recommendation is to keep the Prime Minister out of this bill, but he did not agree. He refused to give an exception to the Prime Minister.” Rijiju further argued that if ethics were truly a priority, the opposition would have supported the Bill.

The Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill, 2025, aims to establish a framework for the removal of ministers when they are arrested and detained for a minimum of 30 days due to allegations of corruption or serious criminal offences. This legislation, introduced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the Lok Sabha, seeks to enhance accountability within government positions.

Rijiju claimed that the recent monsoon session of Parliament was a success from the government’s perspective, despite criticism from opposition parties regarding the lack of meaningful discussions. He asserted that the government’s responsibility is to propose bills that reinforce accountability, stating, “Any position, whether CM, PM or Union Ministers, cannot be above the law.”

The introduction of the 130th Amendment Bill marks a significant step in the ongoing discourse regarding political accountability in India. As discussions continue, the implications of this legislation on the political landscape remain to be seen.