The Madras High Court has temporarily stayed amendments made by the Tamil Nadu government that attempted to diminish the Governor’s role in appointing Vice-Chancellors of state universities. The amendments were contested in a Public Interest Litigation, which argued they were unconstitutional and conflicted with University Grants Commission regulations.
President Droupadi Murmu has sought the Supreme Court’s opinion on whether judicial review can apply to the President’s and Governors’ actions regarding state assembly Bills, as constitutional timelines are not specified. This inquiry raises significant issues regarding separation of powers and judicial oversight in the democratic process.
On April 8, 2025, the Supreme Court of India clarified the roles of the President and Governor regarding State Bills, emphasizing judicial review of presidential actions under Article 201. The Court stated the President must decide on bills within three months and cannot use a pocket veto, demanding clear reasons for withholding assent.
