Owaisi Opposes Controversial Amendment Bill Threatening Ministerial Autonomy

AIMIM Chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi on Wednesday vociferously opposed the Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill, 2025, which proposes the removal of Central or State Ministers embroiled in corruption allegations or serious offences, and detained for over 30 days. Owaisi detailed his concerns in a notice to the Lok Sabha Secretary General.

Owaisi argued that the bill contravenes federalism, double jeopardy, and separation of powers principles, while undermining due process and citizens' rights to elected governance. "This amendment allows executive agencies undue power to act as judge, jury, and executioner, detaining Ministers on mere suspicions," he cautioned.

Highlighting a parliamentary democracy's norms, Owaisi noted ministers can only be removed upon governmental head recommendation or loss of legislature confidence. He warned that involuntary ministerial removal based on 'allegations' empowers unchecked bureaucratic influence over legislative roles.

The Hyderabad MP further argued the amendment exposes Ministers and Chief Ministers to executive agency whims, threatening their ability to perform constitutional duties. "Such amendments risk subjugating elected leaders to Union investigation agencies," Owaisi added, fearing governance reprisals over unproven accusations.

The proposed legislation, part of the upcoming Lok Sabha agenda, is set to be introduced by Amit Shah, targeting additional amendments to the Union Territories Act and Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act.

(With inputs from agencies.)