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Supreme Court Sets Deadline for President to Act on State Bills
Supreme Court says President must decide on state bills within 3 months
In a major decision on April 12, 2025, the Supreme Court of India ruled that the President must act on state bills sent by governors within three months. This directive is meant to avoid long delays in approving or rejecting state laws.
The court said that once a bill is sent by a state governor to the President, it should not remain pending without any action. A three-month deadline will ensure faster governance and respect for the legislative process in states.
Need for Judicial Advice on Constitutional Concerns
The Supreme Court also addressed situations where governors send bills to the President over concerns about their constitutionality. In such cases, the court said the President should seek the Supreme Court’s opinion under Article 143 of the Constitution.
This article allows the President to consult the Supreme Court when there's doubt about constitutional matters. The judges stressed that using this article would help protect the legal framework and maintain the balance between the executive and judiciary.
Triggered by Delays in Tamil Nadu Bills
This ruling follows a recent case where ten bills from Tamil Nadu had been stuck for months, awaiting the President’s decision. The Supreme Court intervened, asking for an update and action. This highlighted the need for a formal deadline to prevent future delays.
The court noted that prolonged silence or inaction undermines democracy. Citizens elect their representatives to make laws, and unnecessary delays in giving assent to those laws can weaken the system.
Promoting Accountability and Good Governance
By setting a three-month limit, the Supreme Court aims to make the system more accountable and efficient. This move also reinforces the idea that constitutional roles come with responsibilities, and no office — including that of the President — should cause a legislative bottleneck.
The ruling is seen as a step toward upholding democratic values, ensuring that bills passed by elected state legislatures are dealt with fairly and promptly at the national level.
