SC Asks Centre, States on Governor Bill Assent Timelines
The Supreme Court has issued formal notices to the Union government and all States, asking them to respond to a Presidential reference about imposing deadlines for bill assent by governors and the President. This marks a crucial step in a national debate on executive accountability in the law‑making process.
Questions Raised Over Judicial Role
In May, President Droupadi Murmu referred 14 constitutional questions to the Court under Article 143(1), challenging its April 8 verdict. The earlier order had set a three‑month deadline for governors and the President to act on bills passed by state legislatures. The President’s reference questions whether the Court can legitimately impose such timelines on officials whose roles are not time‑bound by the Constitution.
Constitution Bench to Hear Matter
A five‑judge Constitution Bench, led by Chief Justice B.R. Gavai, has scheduled the next hearing for July 29, and proceedings are likely to resume by mid‑August. States like Kerala and Tamil Nadu have already raised objections, challenging the maintainability of this reference. The Court will determine if it can intervene without overstepping the bounds of executive discretion enshrined in Articles 200 and 201.
Broader Implications for Federal Governance
A ruling in favour of judicial‑mandated timelines could restrict the “pocket veto”, where governors or the President delay bills indefinitely. Conversely, if the Court backs the President’s stance, governors and the President may operate without externally imposed deadlines. The outcome will shape center‑state relations, and redefine the checks and balances in India’s constitutional framework.
