Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Stalin Rallies Opposition States to Defend Supreme Court’s Governor Powers Ruling

Tamil Nadu CM urges eight non-BJP states to unite against a Presidential reference challenging the Supreme Court’s April 8 judgment on gubernatorial timelines.

The Constitution is silent on timelines for gubernatorial and Presidential action on state bills, though it was not written with the view that Governors and the President would keep state bills pending (Hindustan Times)
Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin addresses the gathering during a book release function in Chennai on Saturday. (PTI)
Image
Image

Overview

  • President Droupadi Murmu submitted a 14-question reference to the Supreme Court on May 13, challenging its April 8 ruling that set timelines for Governors and the President to act on state bills.
  • The April 8 judgment clarified that Governors must act on the advice of state Cabinets, cannot delay assent indefinitely, and established three-month timelines for gubernatorial decisions under Articles 200 and 201.
  • Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin has written to the Chief Ministers of eight non-BJP states, calling for a coordinated legal strategy to oppose the Presidential reference and defend the federal structure of the Constitution.
  • Stalin alleges that the BJP-led Union Government is attempting to undermine the Supreme Court's ruling to enable Governors to obstruct legislation in opposition-ruled states.
  • The Supreme Court is yet to review the President’s reference, which raises questions about the justiciability of gubernatorial discretion and the imposition of timelines through judicial orders.