Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi on Tuesday gave assent to two important Bills that allow the nomination of persons with disabilities to urban and local bodies across the state. These Bills, aimed at promoting social inclusion, are expected to benefit over 12,000 persons with disabilities. The move comes nearly two months after the Supreme Court criticised the Governor for blocking similar Assembly-passed legislation.

Chief Minister MK Stalin welcomed the Governor’s decision, calling it “expected” and hinting that the Supreme Court’s earlier ruling played a role. “This assent was expected. The Governor would be scared that we would move the court again,” Stalin said.

Supreme Court verdict sets deadlines for Governor’s approval

On April 8, the Supreme Court ruled that the Governor’s refusal to approve 10 Bills was “illegal” and “arbitrary.” The Court emphasised that once a Bill is passed twice by the state Assembly, the Governor must give assent.

Under Article 200 of the Constitution, the Governor has several options when presented with a Bill: give assent, withhold assent, send it back for reconsideration, or reserve it for the President’s approval, especially if the Bill conflicts with the Constitution or is of national importance. However, the Supreme Court imposed strict timelines for these decisions, warning that failure to act promptly would be subject to judicial review.

The ruling sparked debate on judicial overreach, with President Droupadi Murmu asking the Supreme Court whether such timelines can be imposed on Governors and the President, citing constitutional protections under Article 361.