Article Today, New Delhi:
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has spoken about his two-year exile from Gujarat during the Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case. He stated that he left the State on his own to ensure that his official position did not affect the evidence. At that time, Mr. Shah was serving as Home Minister in the Narendra Modi-led Gujarat government. Speaking to a national media outlet, he noted that Justice Aftab Alam had expressed concern that his presence could impact the proceedings.
Delay in Bail Hearing
Mr. Shah termed the delay in his bail petition unusual. He pointed out that it took two years for his bail hearing, a rare occurrence in legal history. Normally, he said, bail hearings conclude within days. He recalled that he resigned from his ministerial post immediately after receiving summons from the Central Bureau of Investigation. He added that he did not accept any constitutional position until the case was fully dismissed.
Support for the 130th Amendment Bill
Mr. Shah strongly defended the government’s introduction of the 130th Constitutional Amendment Bill. The Bill seeks to disqualify legislators facing serious charges and under detention for over 30 days in cases carrying five years or more of punishment. He argued that the measure would strengthen constitutional morality and protect public trust. He emphasised that the Bill applies equally to both ruling and opposition leaders.
Opposition Criticism and Committee Review
The Bill has been referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee of 31 members for detailed examination. It will return to the House for voting after recommendations are made. Opposition parties have criticised the proposal, calling it politically motivated. However, Mr. Shah maintained that the government is committed to implementing it in the interest of transparency and accountability.
Case Framed with Political Motive
Reflecting on the Sohrabuddin Sheikh case, Mr. Shah reiterated that the charges were framed against him out of political rivalry. He noted that the court had acquitted him, affirming his innocence. He highlighted that he had stepped down from his position until the legal process was complete, a decision he said underlined his adherence to public ethics.
On Morality and Political Standards
Responding to opposition criticism, Mr. Shah remarked that it was ironic for his rivals to question his moral standards. He said that he had set an example by resigning and waiting until the judicial process cleared him. He concluded that the Bill aims to reinforce citizens’ faith in the political system and ensure that representatives meet ethical expectations.
