The Congress party is likely to stay away from the joint parliamentary committee (JPC) examining three controversial Bills that propose the removal of top government functionaries arrested for 30 consecutive days on serious charges. Party sources revealed this decision on Monday, stating that it will be formally conveyed to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla soon.
In a show of united opposition, at least three other parties—the Trinamool Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and Aam Aadmi Party—have already announced their intent not to participate in the committee. The Samajwadi Party also indicated support for a boycott, despite some parties remaining undecided. However, none have confirmed their interest in joining the JPC.
Earlier this month, Speaker Om Birla emphasized that no political party had officially communicated its boycott intentions regarding the JPC.
“On the issue of JPC, no political party has communicated to me in writing on this subject,” Birla told reporters.
This situation arises from the introduction of three contentious bills by Home Minister Amit Shah during the last day of the Monsoon Session in the Lok Sabha. The bills include:
- The Government of Union Territories (Amendment) Bill
- The Constitution (One Hundred and Thirtieth Amendment) Bill
- The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill
These legislative proposals outline provisions for the removal of the Prime Minister, Chief Ministers, and other ministers if they face arrest on serious charges for 30 consecutive days. Upon their introduction, the bills sparked fierce opposition protests, with various political factions labeling them as unconstitutional and politically motivated, suggesting an intent to target opposition leaders.
The Lok Sabha has referred these bills to a joint committee of Parliament, which will consist of 21 members from Lok Sabha and 10 from Rajya Sabha. As of now, this committee has not been constituted.
