New Delhi, August 20, 2025 – Union Home Minister Amit Shah introduced the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (Bill No. 112 of 2025) in the Lok Sabha, proposing significant changes to the political and administrative framework of Jammu and Kashmir. The amendment inserts a new Sub-section (5A) in Section 54 of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019.
According to the Bill, if a Minister or the Chief Minister is in custody for over 30 days on charges punishable with imprisonment of five years or more, they shall be removed from office. The Lieutenant Governor will act on the Chief Minister’s advice for removing a Minister, but if no advice is given by the 31st day, the Minister will automatically cease to hold office. Similarly, if the Chief Minister himself remains in custody for more than 30 days, resignation is mandatory, failing which the position will automatically stand vacated. Importantly, the provision does not prevent reappointment after release from custody.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized that the amendment seeks to ensure accountability, uphold constitutional morality, and safeguard public trust. The move is seen as a landmark step towards strengthening governance and transparency in Jammu and Kashmir.
