Raghav Chadha calls for ‘Right to Recall’ MLAs, MPs, says five-year term too long

Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha member Raghav Chadha on Tuesday strongly advocated the introduction of a “Right to Recall” mechanism, arguing that voters should have the power to remove non-performing MPs and MLAs before the end of their five-year term. Speaking during Zero Hour in the Upper House, Chadha said the current system lacks accountability and performance evaluation for elected representatives.

Highlighting what he termed a structural flaw in electoral democracy, Chadha remarked, “Before the election, the leader is after the public, and after the election, the public is after the leader.” He argued that in a fast-paced world, a five-year tenure is too long if the wrong candidate is elected, as it can push entire regions into backwardness.

Describing the Right to Recall as an “insurance for democracy” rather than a weapon against politicians, Chadha pointed to constitutional provisions that allow impeachment of the President, removal of judges and no-confidence motions against governments. He questioned why citizens should not have similar recourse against non-performing legislators.

Citing examples from over 24 democracies, including Canada and Switzerland, and the 2003 recall of California Governor Gray Davis, Chadha proposed safeguards such as a minimum 18-month performance period and at least 50 per cent voter approval for recall. He said the reform would strengthen democracy and compel political parties to field better candidates.