Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin has launched a vigorous campaign demanding constitutional amendments that would establish strict timelines for governors to approve bills passed by state legislatures. The DMK leader declared that his party would not rest until such crucial changes are implemented to protect states' rights and ensure efficient governance.
The Constitutional Reform Push
Speaking at a conference on 'Strengthening State Legislatures' organized by the DMK in Chennai, Stalin emphasized the urgent need for constitutional reforms. The Chief Minister specifically called for fixing clear timeframes for governors to either approve or return bills sent by state assemblies. This demand comes amid ongoing tensions between several non-BJP ruled states and their respective governors over delays in bill approvals.
Stalin articulated that the current system allows governors to indefinitely hold bills without taking action, which he described as undermining the democratic will of state legislatures. The Tamil Nadu government has faced several instances where bills passed by the assembly remained pending with the governor's office for extended periods, affecting governance and policy implementation.
Federal Structure Under Strain
The DMK leader argued that the existing practice contradicts the principles of federalism enshrined in the Constitution. Stalin pointed out that while there are specific timeframes for the President to consider bills passed by Parliament, no such provisions exist for governors at the state level. This constitutional asymmetry, according to Stalin, creates an imbalance in the federal structure and gives undue advantage to the central government through its appointed governors.
The conference saw participation from various political parties, legal experts, and constitutional scholars who discussed ways to strengthen state legislatures. Stalin positioned this initiative as part of a broader movement to protect states' rights and ensure that elected governments can function without unnecessary interference from appointed officials.
Political Implications and Next Steps
Stalin's push for constitutional amendments represents a significant escalation in the ongoing debate about governor-state relations in India. The DMK plans to build a nationwide consensus among opposition parties and state governments to pressure the central government into considering these constitutional changes. The party intends to raise this issue in Parliament and explore legal options to address what they term as 'governor overreach.'
Political observers note that this movement could gain traction among several opposition-ruled states that have faced similar challenges with governors delaying bill approvals. The demand for fixed timelines is likely to become a key point of discussion in federalism debates and could potentially lead to a constitutional amendment bill being introduced in Parliament.
Stalin concluded his address by reaffirming his commitment to this cause, stating that the DMK would continue its struggle until concrete constitutional safeguards are established to protect the legislative authority of state governments. The outcome of this initiative could significantly reshape the dynamics between state governments and governors across India.
