The Supreme Court of India has mandated that the President must decide within three months on bills referred by state governors.
This groundbreaking verdict arises from a case involving Tamil Nadu, where the Governor’s prolonged withholding of assent to several state bills prompted judicial intervention.
A bench comprising Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan declared that the functions of the President under Article 201 of the Constitution are subject to judicial review. The court emphasized that constitutional powers should be exercised within a reasonable time frame to prevent misuse.
The ruling outlined that any delay beyond three months requires the reasons to be recorded and communicated to the concerned state. Additionally, aggrieved states can seek judicial review in cases of inaction. The court also clarified that questions regarding a bill’s constitutional validity must be referred to constitutional courts, not addressed by the executive.
This decision is seen as a pivotal move to reinforce accountability and efficiency within India’s legislative process.
