NEW INDIA BILLS UNDERMINE LAWS OF JUSTICE

Given the slow justice system, laws to remove arrested ministers at the central and state level invite misuse and erode democracy

- BY NIDHI RAZDAN | Special to Gulf News

Over a decade into the Narendra Modi-led BJP government, we have learnt to expect the unexpected. The government thrives on surprise, shock and awe against its opponents.

Last week, almost at the fag end of the parliament session, Home Minister Amit Shah brought in three bills which could basically remove the prime minister, chief ministers and ministers at the Centre and in states if they have been arrested for a serious offence where the jail term is five years. If they don’t get bail in 30 days, they will be removed from office. The Bills have been sent to a parliament committee for examination. The BJP says this is about morality in politics but in reality, these Bills set a dangerous precedent that undermines democracy, federalism and the laws of justice.

Where the problem lies