The 130th Amendment Bill, introduced during the parliamentary monsoon session on August 20, proposes a significant change: Prime Ministers, Chief Ministers, and ministers must resign if they are arrested or detained for 30 days. The bill has triggered intense debate. The opposition, led by figures like Tejashwi Yadav, has criticized it, calling it a tool for political manipulation. Conversely, the BJP’s allies, including the TDP and Janata Dal United, have expressed their support.
The TDP, a key BJP partner in Andhra Pradesh, has welcomed the Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill 2025, viewing it as a move towards honest politics, a long-standing public demand. They also noted that the bill could apply to the Prime Minister.
Despite their support, the TDP suggested the bill should be examined by a parliamentary panel to prevent misuse. In Parliament, it was argued that Indian citizens want both clean governance and a strong democracy, prompting the bill’s referral to a committee. It was emphasized that amending the Constitution demands careful consideration.
Janata Dal United leader Lalan Singh emphasized that public trust is essential for a functioning democracy. He highlighted that the bill, introduced by the Modi government, includes a clause that prevents the Prime Minister, Chief Ministers, and ministers at all levels from holding office if imprisoned for criminal offenses and denied bail within a month. Singh referenced past instances where ministers continued to serve despite facing corruption charges and imprisonment, which he viewed as a violation of ethical norms.
Singh stated that the government introduced the bill to uphold high ethical standards in public life. He criticized the opposition’s behavior, arguing it demonstrated their opposition to these standards. He contrasted this with the Prime Minister’s commitment to ethical governance.
Singh strongly condemned the opposition’s actions and expressed confidence that the public would reject any opposition to maintaining high ethical standards in public life.
The Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill 2025 caused significant disruption in Parliament. The opposition accused the government of acting arbitrarily. Tejashwi Yadav called the bill a form of blackmail, while Rahul Gandhi warned it could take the country backward. Critics alleged the bill would allow leaders to remove those they do not favor.