New Delhi, Apr 8 (UNI) In a landmark judgment on Tuesday, the Supreme Court of India issued a stern warning to Governors across the country, advising them to refrain from obstructing State legislatures or undermining the will of the people for political purposes.
The Court's remarks were aimed at ensuring Governors adhere to the constitutional principles and respect the democratic process.
The Bench, comprising Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice R Mahadevan, made these observations in relation to the actions of Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi concerning the bills presented to him by the state legislature.
The Court emphasized that Governors must act in harmony with the conventions of parliamentary democracy and respect the people's will, as expressed through their elected representatives.
"The Governor must not create roadblocks or choke the State legislature in ways that thwart the will of the people," the Court stated. It further highlighted that the elected members of the State legislature are better positioned to address the concerns and welfare of the people.
The Court stressed that a Governor’s role is that of an impartial facilitator, tasked with ensuring governance, not blocking it for political gain. "In times of conflict, the Governor must be a catalyst for consensus and resolution, not an inhibitor," the judgment stated.
The justices also underscored the importance of a Governor upholding the constitutional oath, warning that any actions counter to the legislature’s decisions would be a betrayal of this oath. They reminded constitutional authorities to be guided by the core values of the Constitution and resist political pressures.
Concluding the ruling, the Court invoked a poignant quote from Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's speech in the Constituent Assembly, which remains relevant today: "However good a constitution may be, it is sure to turn out bad because those who are called to work it happen to be a bad lot. However bad a constitution may be, it may turn out to be good if those who are called to work it happen to be a good lot."
This judgment serves as a clear reminder to all constitutional authorities that their actions must be aligned with the principles and ideals enshrined in the Constitution, reflecting the values cherished by the people of India.
UNI SNG KK