The Supreme Court on Tuesday expressed concern over the delay in the Governor of Tamil Nadu, R.N. Ravi, in giving assent to bills passed by the state legislature.
The court also ordered that the five bills that are still pending with the governor be considered by him afresh.
The court’s order came after the Tamil Nadu government filed a petition in the Supreme Court, alleging that the governor was delaying the assent to bills passed by the state legislature.
The court said that it was “a matter of serious concern” that the governor had not given assent to 12 bills that were passed by the Tamil Nadu legislature in 2020.
The court also noted that the governor had not given assent to other matters, such as permission to prosecute cases, proposals to release prisoners early, and appointment of members to the Public Works Department Committee.
The Tamil Nadu government alleged in its petition that the governor was “paralyzing” the state legislature and the entire administration by refusing to sign files, approve appointments, and give permission for the prosecution of cases against corrupt ministers and MLAs.
The court ordered that the governor give his decision on the five bills that are still pending with him by December 1.
The court also directed the central government to file a reply to the petition by December 1.**
Analysis:
The Supreme Court’s order is a significant rebuke to the governor of Tamil Nadu. The court has clearly stated that it is unacceptable for the governor to delay giving assent to bills that have been passed by the state legislature.
The court’s order is also likely to have a significant impact on the political situation in Tamil Nadu. The governor’s delay in giving assent to the bills has been a source of tension between the state government and the governor. The court’s order is likely to further increase this tension.
It remains to be seen whether the governor will comply with the court’s order. If he does not, the court may take further action against him.