Thu Apr 17 11:44:40 UTC 2025: ## Vice President Dhankhar Criticizes Supreme Court Ruling on Presidential Bill Approvals
**New Delhi, April 17, 2025** – Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar expressed strong criticism today of a recent Supreme Court ruling mandating a three-month deadline for the President to decide on bills reserved by state governors. He argued that this ruling encroaches on the executive branch and undermines the President’s constitutional role.
The Supreme Court’s April 8th judgment, stemming from a 2023 petition by the Tamil Nadu government, established the three-month timeframe for presidential assent or rejection of state bills. The court also suggested that the President seek Supreme Court advice on bills deemed unconstitutional.
Dhankhar, addressing Rajya Sabha interns, stated that this ruling effectively allows judges to legislate, perform executive functions, and act as a “super Parliament,” exceeding their constitutional authority. He emphasized the President’s independent constitutional oath and questioned the basis for the court’s directive. He voiced deep concern about the precedent set, declaring that India had not “bargained for a democracy where judges will legislate.”
Dhankhar’s concerns highlight a significant power struggle between the judiciary and the executive branch, raising crucial questions about the balance of power within India’s democratic framework. The ruling’s implications for the relationship between the President, the Supreme Court, and state governments are expected to spark further debate.
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