JPC defers draft report on bill for removal of PM, CMs facing serious charges
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
A joint parliamentary committee (JPC) examining the bill on removal of prime ministers and chief ministers deferred adoption of its draft report, citing need for more consultations. The bill, which seeks to amend the Government of Union Territories Act, 1963, proposes suspension rather than permanent removal of leaders detained for 30 days on serious charges. The deferral comes ahead of the Monsoon session of Parliament.
Background
The JPC on the 130th Amendment Bill had made five recommendations in its draft report. The bill aims to provide a mechanism for removal of prime ministers and chief ministers facing serious criminal charges. The committee had circulated the draft report to members and voting was underway when the decision to defer was taken.
Key facts
JPC deferred adoption of draft report on bill for removal of PM and CMs facing serious charges.
The committee made five recommendations; voting on two was completed before deferral.
Some BJP members voted against the first two recommendations, but they were adopted by majority.
Recommendation: suspend (not permanently remove) PM, Union ministers, CMs if detained for 30 consecutive days on serious offences.
Automatic reversal clause proposed if acquitted or prosecution does not proceed within a specified period.
AIMIM's Asaduddin Owaisi and NCP (SP)'s Supriya Sule withdrew their dissent notes after deferral.
JPC chairperson Aparajita Sarangi said more consultations with stakeholders are needed.
The bill seeks to amend the Government of Union Territories Act, 1963.
Monsoon session of Parliament scheduled from July 20 to August 13.
Prelims pointers
- Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC)
- 130th Amendment Bill
- Government of Union Territories Act, 1963
- Monsoon session of Parliament
Mains angles
- Discuss the constitutional and legal framework for removal of Prime Minister and Chief Ministers.
- Examine the role of Joint Parliamentary Committees in the legislative process.
- Critically analyze the proposed suspension mechanism versus permanent removal for elected officials facing serious charges.