Tue Apr 15 18:52:00 UTC 2025: ## Supreme Court Verdict Slams Governor Ravi’s Actions, Limits Governor’s Power
**Chennai, April 16, 2025** – A landmark Supreme Court ruling has significantly curtailed the powers of Governors to delay or withhold assent to state legislature Bills, prompting strong reactions from political leaders in Tamil Nadu. The verdict, which addressed the Governor’s inaction on 10 Tamil Nadu Assembly Bills, has been lauded as a victory for federalism.
N. Ram, former Editor-in-Chief of The Hindu, declared that Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi would rank among the three worst Governors in India’s history, citing his actions as an attack on federalism. He noted that while past Congress and BJP governments had exhibited similar issues, the recent Supreme Court decision clarified the limits of a Governor’s power.
The court’s decision sets a 30-day time limit for Governors to act on Bills. Failure to do so within this timeframe allows for legal recourse. DMK Rajya Sabha MP P. Wilson hailed the verdict, stating that it prevents Governors from delaying legislation and that the ruling establishes no constitutional authority is above the law. He emphasized that this is the first instance in India where Bills have become law without gubernatorial or presidential assent.
Fellow DMK Rajya Sabha member N.R. Elango highlighted Chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s role in protecting state rights by pursuing the case, clarifying that the legal challenge was not against the Union government but to safeguard Tamil Nadu’s interests. Dravidar Kazhagam president K. Veeramani further emphasized the unprecedented nature of the Supreme Court’s criticism directed at Governor Ravi. The verdict establishes a precedent that will affect how Governors across India function.
First Piper 