The Supreme Court has intervened in the ongoing tussle between the Tamil Nadu Governor, RN Ravi, and Chief Minister MK Stalin over the delay in clearing bills. The apex court urged the Governor to hold discussions with the Chief Minister to address the deadlock concerning ten bills re-adopted by the assembly. This development comes after the Governor referred these bills to President Droupadi Murmu, stating they cannot be reserved for presidential consideration after re-adoption by the assembly.
The court’s observation came in response to the state government’s counsel, highlighting the Governor’s move to refer the bills to the President. As the matter awaits resolution, the Supreme Court has scheduled further proceedings for December 11.
This dispute arose when Governor Ravi returned ten bills, including two passed during the earlier AIADMK government, prompting the Tamil Nadu Assembly to re-adopt these bills in a special session. The state government has accused the Governor of intentionally delaying the clearance, hindering the state’s progress, and undermining the elected administration’s authority.
Chief Minister Stalin condemned the delay, denouncing the Governor’s withholding of assent without valid reasons. He emphasized that once bills are re-passed and sent for assent, the Governor cannot withhold approval arbitrarily. This sentiment was echoed by Tamil Nadu’s Law Minister, who criticized the Governor’s attempt to centralize power and limit the elected government’s authority.
Earlier, the Supreme Court expressed concern over governors’ delays in approving bills passed by state assemblies, underscoring the prolonged pending status of these bills since 2020. The Court questioned the Governor’s inaction over three years on these pending bills, highlighting the need for expeditious resolution.
The Supreme Court’s intervention seeks to address the impasse between the Governor and the Chief Minister, urging dialogue and resolution to expedite the crucial legislative process.
Sources By Agencies