SC Advisory Opinion on Governor's Assent
Why focus: GS2 Polity: Constitution Bench on Article 200/201 assent powers. Near-guaranteed test of 'deemed assent' in Assertion-Reason format.
In News
What Happened
Why It Matters
Background
History & Context
What Changed
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BEFORE: Various legal interpretations debated the existence of a 'deemed assent' doctrine if a Governor delayed a bill for an unreasonable period. NOW: The Supreme Court explicitly struck down the 'deemed assent' doctrine, clarifying that assent must be a positive, explicit act.
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BEFORE: State governments frequently approached constitutional courts seeking writs to compel Governors to clear pending bills. NOW: Courts cannot issue writs or prescribe mandatory timelines for the Governor or President to act on bills under Articles 200 and 201.
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BEFORE: The boundary of judicial review regarding a Governor's inaction was a constitutional gray area. NOW: The Court explicitly declared that the executive's exercise of assent powers is non-justiciable before the bill actually becomes an enacted law.
Prelims Angle
NCERT Connection
Practice Questions
Q1
With Reference ToWith reference to the powers of the Governor under Article 200 of the Constitution of India, consider the following statements: 1. The Constitution explicitly mandates a maximum six-month timeline for the Governor to act on a Bill passed by the State Legislature. 2. The Governor is constitutionally bound to reserve a Bill for the consideration of the President if it endangers the position of the State High Court. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?