Governor shuffle raises concerns about central interference in Centre-State relations
The article discusses the recent transfer of Governors in several states, particularly focusing on R.N. Ravi's tenure in Tamil Nadu and C.V. Ananda Bose's in West Bengal. It highlights how Governors have often been perceived as political pinpricks to elected governments, creating constitutional misadventures. R.N. Ravi's actions in Tamil Nadu, such as walking out of the Assembly, delaying Bills, and arguing that a withheld Bill is "dead" (a position rejected by the Supreme Court), are cited as examples of undermining popular will. The author suggests that such gubernatorial actions contribute to a perception of central interference in state affairs.
Key Points
- Recent transfers of Governors, including R.N. Ravi from Tamil Nadu, highlight ongoing tensions in Centre-State relations.
- Governors have been accused of creating legislative paralysis by delaying decisions on Bills and abusing powers under Article 200 of the Constitution.
- The Supreme Court rejected the stance that a Governor withholding assent makes a Bill "dead," as seen in the Punjab case (2023).
- The actions of Governors are often perceived as politically motivated, undermining the popular will expressed through elected state governments.
Exam Facts
- Governor R.N. Ravi was transferred from Tamil Nadu.
- Governor C.V. Ananda Bose resigned from West Bengal.
- Article 176 mandates the Governor to deliver the Special Address to the House.
- Article 200 grants the Governor powers regarding assent to Bills.
- The Supreme Court rejected the "Bill is dead" argument in the Punjab case (2023).
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