New Delhi, July 29: The Supreme Court on Tuesday scheduled hearings beginning August 19 to examine the Presidential Reference concerning whether fixed timelines can be imposed for constitutional authorities to act on bills passed by state assemblies.
A five-judge Constitution Bench led by Chief Justice BR Gavai directed the Centre and states to submit written arguments by August 12. The court will initially hear preliminary objections—raised by states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu—questioning the maintainability of the reference for one hour on August 19.
The court announced a structured schedule: arguments supporting the Presidential Reference will be heard on August 19, 20, 21, and 26; those opposing it will be heard on August 28, and September 2, 3, and 9. Rejoinders, if any, will be taken up on September 10.
The matter stems from a reference made by President Droupadi Murmu under Article 143(1) of the Constitution, following the Supreme Court’s April 8 ruling that set a three-month deadline for the President to decide on bills forwarded by governors. The court had ruled that governors must act strictly as per the advice of the council of ministers and do not have discretion under Article 200.
The reference seeks clarity on 14 constitutional questions, including the scope of presidential and gubernatorial powers under Articles 200 and 201, with far-reaching implications for Centre-State relations. (Agencies)
