Is the Constitutional Amendment Bill a Tactic for the Centre to Hold Power Without Accountability?
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Synopsis
Abhishek Banerjee criticizes the BJP-led government's recent move to introduce a Constitutional Amendment Bill, claiming it aims to consolidate power without accountability. He highlights the government's failures and urges for accountability measures within the proposed legislation.
Key Takeaways
- Abhishek Banerjee denounces the BJP's attempt to amend the Constitution.
- The proposed bill aims to alter provisions regarding ministers facing serious allegations.
- Banerjee demands accountability measures in the legislation.
- The opposition fears this bill could undermine democracy.
- The bill has been sent to a Joint Committee of Parliament for review.
Kolkata, Aug 20 (NationPress) Trinamool Congress General Secretary and the party's Lok Sabha leader, Abhishek Banerjee, strongly condemned the BJP-led government's introduction of the Constitution Amendment Bill, asserting that it represents an effort to maintain power without any form of accountability.
During a press conference in Kolkata, Banerjee accused the Centre of attempting to distract from its inability to advance the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, which has encountered significant obstacles in the Supreme Court, by pushing this new bill in Parliament.
"The motive behind introducing these bills is to allow the BJP to hold onto power, resources, and dominance over the country without assuming responsibility. This dangerous blend is evident. Hence, they will never include the accountability clause we demand. The citizens of India have effectively halted this process," he stated.
On Wednesday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah presented the Government of Union Territories (Amendment) Bill 2025, the Constitution (One Hundred And Thirtieth Amendment) Bill 2025, and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill 2025 in the Lok Sabha.
The Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill, 2025, aims to remove a Central or State Minister who faces allegations of corruption or serious crimes and has been imprisoned for at least 30 days, even without a conviction for offenses punishable by five years or more.
"We are ready to support the bills. In fact, we encourage the government to shorten the detention period for ministers from 30 days to 15 days, as proposed. However, they must incorporate a clause stipulating that if the minister is not found guilty by the 16th day, the investigating officers and their superiors must serve double the time in prison for their wrongful detention. If this clause is added, Trinamool will be the first to back this bill," Banerjee remarked.
Banerjee also alleged that the bills would face insurmountable challenges in Parliament as they require a two-thirds majority in both Houses for constitutional amendments.
As the Opposition raised their voices in protest, the proposed laws were sent to a Joint Committee of Parliament, consisting of 21 members from the Lok Sabha and 10 from the Rajya Sabha.
Earlier, Banerjee criticized the Centre for pushing forward with the Constitution Amendment Bill.
He expressed on X that such a bill is designed to target opposition leaders through the use of central investigation agencies.
"We vehemently oppose this authoritarian approach and denounce the introduction of this DRACONIAN CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT BILL. The Government of India has utterly failed to fulfill its obligation to protect the sovereignty of the nation while neglecting to support the true development of farmers, workers, and the impoverished," Banerjee stated.
In opposition to the Centre's actions, the Trinamool Congress leader remarked, "After failing to misuse the EC for the SIR implementation, the government has engaged another 'E'—the ED—to introduce laws that target opposition leaders, undermine democracy, and distort the people's mandate by destabilizing State Governments."
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the ongoing tensions in Indian politics. The introduction of the Constitutional Amendment Bill raises significant concerns about government accountability and democratic integrity. The discussions surrounding this bill will shape the political landscape, and it's essential for citizens to remain informed and engaged in these critical developments.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Constitutional Amendment Bill?
The Constitutional Amendment Bill aims to modify certain provisions to potentially remove ministers facing serious allegations, but it has raised concerns about accountability.
Why is Abhishek Banerjee opposing the bill?
Banerjee opposes the bill as he believes it is an attempt by the BJP to retain power without accountability and to target opposition leaders.
What are the implications of the bill?
The bill could lead to significant changes in governance, affecting how ministers are held accountable and could undermine democratic processes.
How has the opposition responded to the bill?
The opposition has vocally criticized the bill, arguing that it serves to consolidate power and suppress dissent.
What are the next steps for the bill?
The bill has been referred to a Joint Committee of Parliament, where it will undergo further scrutiny and debate before any potential passage.
