The government aims to curb corruption by introducing a bill that removes jailed Chief Ministers, sparked by Kejriwal’s case and other controversies.
Background: The Catalyst — Arvind Kejriwal’s Arrest and Aftermath
- Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was arrested in June 2023 in a corruption case related to the now-scrapped Delhi liquor policy.
- Despite the arrest, Kejriwal refused to resign, with his cabinet managing governance on his behalf.
- He stepped down only after bail in September and promised to return post-election verdict.
- AAP leader Atishi served as Chief Minister until AAP lost the February 2024 Delhi Assembly election to BJP.
Government’s Viewpoint:
The Centre wanted to introduce legislation soon after Kejriwal’s refusal to resign, but delayed to avoid accusations of political vendetta.
The Senthil Balaji Case: Another Trigger
- Tamil Nadu minister Senthil Balaji was arrested on corruption charges in 2023 but initially continued as minister without portfolio.
- Madras High Court criticized this arrangement as a “constitutional travesty.”
- Balaji resigned, was granted bail, returned to office, but resigned again after Supreme Court raised concerns over witness intimidation.
Government’s Stance:
Officials say such situations “need to end,” emphasizing that jailed ministers running government affairs were never envisioned by the Constitution.
Political Irony: Rahul Gandhi’s Role
- Rahul Gandhi opposed a 2013 ordinance that disqualified convicted MPs/MLAs, which was later scrapped by Congress.
- This ordinance could have protected Gandhi after his 2023 conviction in a defamation case.
- Government sources question Congress’s opposition to the new Bill aimed at penalizing criminality in politics.
Political Irony: Rahul Gandhi’s Role
- Rahul Gandhi opposed a 2013 ordinance that disqualified convicted MPs/MLAs, which was later scrapped by Congress.
- This ordinance could have protected Gandhi after his 2023 conviction in a defamation case.
- Government sources question Congress’s opposition to the new Bill aimed at penalizing criminality in politics.
Key Points to Remember
- Purpose: Disqualify Chief Ministers jailed for serious crimes for over a month.
- Trigger: Cases like Kejriwal’s and Senthil Balaji’s highlighted legal loopholes.
- Political Context: The Bill is as much about legal reform as it is about political messaging.
- Opposition: Congress and allies resist, citing potential misuse and political vendetta.
- Government: Maintains it’s a step towards cleaner politics and accountability.
While the bill faces opposition and challenges in Parliament, the government remains determined to push for cleaner politics and hold leaders accountable, sending a strong message against corruption.
Also Read : Opposition Shreds Bill To Sack Arrested Ministers, Throws It At Amit Shah | Watch Video
