SC calls for self-introspection by the Governors and CMs in the whole country

New Delhi – The Punjab Government has filed a plea with the Supreme Court regarding the alleged delay by Governor Banwarilal Purohit in granting assent to bills passed by the Assembly. The plea seeks directions for the Governor to clear all the pending Bills. The Government argues that the Governor’s inaction has brought the administration to a halt and goes against the Governor’s limited powers under Article 200 of the Constitution.

The Supreme Court has directed Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to provide an updated status report on the actions taken by Punjab Governor Banwarilal Purohit regarding Bills passed by the Assembly. The Court emphasised that Governors should act on Bills before they reach the Supreme Court and called for self-reflection by Governors.

Supreme Court says Governors must act before matters reach Courts

CJI Chandrachud

The Supreme Court on Monday asked why States need to come to Courts against Governors for keeping Bills pending and said “Governors must act” before the issue reaches the Courts. Governors also cannot be oblivious to the fact that they are not elected representatives of the people. The Governor can either withhold his assent, refer it to the President, or they are duty bound they can return it once. And particularly on money bills,” said CJI Chandrachud.

A three-judge Bench, presided by Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud, was hearing a plea by the Punjab Government saying Governor Banwarilal Purohit had kept as many as seven Bills pending.

“This happened in the case of Telangana also. Why do parties have to come to the SC ? The Governors must act before it comes to the SC… Only after they come to the SC, that the Governors start acting. This has to stop,” CJI Chandrachud said.

Fixing it for hearing next on 10th November, the Court asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who appeared for Governor Purohit, to apprise it of “the action which has been taken by the Governor” by then.