Archive · 19 May 2025
Center's Presidential Reference Raises Questions on Governor's Powers
Imagine the Governor of a state is like a referee, and the state government makes the rules (laws).
The Supreme Court already clarified the referee's job: they can't just hold up the rules forever.
But now, the central government, who appointed the referee, is asking the Supreme Court to re-examine the referee's powers.
Critics believe this is an attempt to give the referee more power than they should have.
They argue the government should have just accepted the court's original ruling, instead of opening up the debate again.
It is like they're trying to change the rules after the game is over.
The Supreme Court clarified the constitutional position on the powers of Governors regarding state bills in April 2025.
The court ruled that the Tamil Nadu Governor's withholding of 10 state bills was illegal.
The Central government has brought up these questions to the Court again through a Presidential Reference under Article 143.
Critics suggest the Centre is seeking to expand Governor's powers, which could undermine the elected assemblies.
Constitutional scholars point out that the Presidential Reference may not override the Court's original judgment.
- Who
- The Union government and the Supreme Court are involved.
- What
- The Union government has made a Presidential Reference regarding the powers of Governors and the President concerning state bills.
- When
- April 8, 2025 (Court Judgment); May 17, 2025 (Publication)
- Where
- India
- Why
- To seek clarification on the powers of Governors, especially regarding withholding state bills.
Constitutional Scholars/Critics
Central Government
Governor's Powers
Constitutional Scholars/Critics
The Centre is attempting to expand the powers of Governors through a Presidential Reference, which goes against the intent of the Constitution.
Central Government
Implied. The Centre is seeking the Court's opinion on Governor's powers via a Presidential Reference.
Legal Strategy
Constitutional Scholars/Critics
The Centre should have sought clarity through a review petition or other established procedures.
Central Government
The Centre is using a Presidential Reference.
- Court's Judgment Date
- April 8, 2025
- Governor Involved
- R.N. Ravi
- Number of State Bills Withheld
- 10
- Legal Action
- Presidential Reference under Article 143
- Publication Date
- May 17, 2025