The recent union cabinet reshuffle has sparked political turbulence with the removal of Kiran Rijiju from his post as Law Minister and giving the portfolio to Arjun Ram Meghwal, a former bureaucrat and a prominent Dalit leader from Rajasthan. It is widely speculated that Rijiju, not only targeted the judiciary but also openly expressed his opinions on various subjects, ranging from the judiciary's collegium system to other legal cases.
In a recent public appearance, the former Law Minister directly criticized the collegium system, referring to it as the "Uncle Judge Syndrome."
Amidst these significant changes, the BJP seems to have strategically molded the political landscape in Rajasthan by appointing Meghwal as the Law Minister just before the upcoming Rajasthan Assembly elections.
A key aspect being discussed in political circles is the symbolism behind the appointment of Arjun Ram Meghwal as Law Minister, conveying a message to Rajasthan that a prominent Dalit figure from their state has been entrusted with a major portfolio.
Political analysts and esteemed journalists from Rajasthan, suggest that the reasons behind Kiran Rijiju's removal from the cabinet will become clearer with time. However, the party's decision to appoint Arjun Ram Meghwal as Law Minister seems to have a calculated political advantage, establishing a significant responsibility for a prominent Dalit figure in the state ahead of the impending elections.
Political experts believe that the party has formulated a comprehensive strategy to leverage this crucial portfolio and reap political benefits in the coming months in Rajasthan.
The central government's decision has ignited discussions regarding the sudden removal of senior leader Kiran Rijiju, who was highly regarded in the Northeast and held considerable favor within the Modi Cabinet.
The prevailing inference in political circles suggests that the former Law Minister consistently targeted the judiciary. To prevent any potential clashes between the judiciary and the central government, this significant change seems to have been orchestrated.
Even after assuming the role of Law Minister, Kiran Rijiju continued to face strained relations with the judiciary. He openly expressed his opinions on the judiciary and former judges during public forums and various programs. Sources indicate that such an environment led to conflicts between the judiciary and the Law Ministry. It is also reported that the Law Minister and Supreme Court judges were not entirely at ease with each other during public discussions or speeches.
Notably, Kiran Rijiju openly criticized the collegium system, asserting that discussions within it revolved around individuals known to the judges. If a person was unknown to the collegium members, there would be no consideration. Kiran Rijiju targeted the collegium system, highlighting that even if one is a competent lawyer, it becomes challenging for their name to be recommended as a judge if they lack personal connections or influence within the system.
Arjun Ram Meghwal, recognized for his modest lifestyle, currently serves as a Member of Parliament from the Bikaner Lok Sabha constituency. He has previously held the positions of Minister of Culture and Parliamentary Affairs, Minister of State for Finance, and Minister of State for Water Resources, River Development, and Ganga Rejuvenation. His political journey commenced in 2009, and he has actively championed the interests of the Dalit community.
The Minister's humble lifestyle gained attention when he made headlines for arriving at the Parliament on a bicycle, showcasing his down-to-earth nature and setting an example of modesty in public life.
Kiran Rijiju's overt targeting of the judiciary and expression of opinions on various matters have played a significant role in this scenario. In light of the upcoming Rajasthan elections, the BJP seems to be shaping the political landscape by assigning Meghwal, a pivotal role as the Law Minister.
This cabinet reshuffle also brings Meghwal into a prominent position within the BJP government. He had in the past presented a bill against the decriminalization of homosexuality. It remains to be seen how Meghwal's appointment as Law Minister will impact legal matters and whether the central government would succeed to mend relationship with judiciary as well as be able to woo dalit voters in Rajasthan.
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