Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin Challenges Governor's Unconstitutional Remarks on Siddha Medical University Bill

Chennai: Tamil Nadu Assembly passed a resolution on Thursday introduced by Chief Minister MK Stalin, rejecting Governor RN Ravi's comments on the Tamil Nadu Siddha Medical University Amendment Bill. Stalin declared the Governor's remarks "unconstitutional, against federal principles, and diminishing the dignity of the House." The Assembly subsequently decided to send the bill back to the Governor for his approval.

The previously passed bill aims to amend the governing Act of the Tamil Nadu Siddha Medical University, an institution specialized in traditional medicine systems including Siddha, Ayurveda, Unani, and Homeopathy. This university was established to advance research and standardized education in these traditional medical disciplines. The amendment primarily addresses administrative and financial aspects of the university's structure.

A significant provision in the amendment proposes replacing the Governor with the Chief Minister as the Chancellor of the university.

Stalin explained the bill's submission to the Governor prior to its Assembly introduction, noting it qualified as a Finance Bill. According to Article 207(3) of the Constitution, any legislation involving expenditure from the State's Consolidated Fund - such as university funding or salary provisions - requires the Governor's recommendation before presentation in the Assembly. Only after securing this recommendation can such legislation be formally introduced and discussed by members.

The Chief Minister informed the Assembly that the Governor had violated Constitutional conventions by commenting on the draft bill before its introduction. "Rather than following constitutional conventions, the Governor has offered his opinions on certain sections. He requested these be brought to members' attention upon introduction. This contradicts both the Constitution and Assembly rules. Only elected representatives have the authority to propose changes, withdraw, or call for a vote," Stalin stated during his address.

He noted the Bill underwent proper drafting after public consultation, review by the Law Department, and approval from the Health Minister before submission to the Governor. "Yet, instead of adhering to established constitutional practice, the Governor expressed personal opinions and directed they be shared with members. This exceeds his authority," Stalin remarked.

The Chief Minister also highlighted that the Governor's use of "appropriate consideration" in his note to the Assembly was disrespectful. "What is implied by 'appropriate'? It suggests the Assembly should examine the Bill in a proper manner - as if we might otherwise act improperly. This is unacceptable. Legislative power belongs exclusively to this Assembly," Stalin emphasized.

Recently, the Supreme Court ruled that ten bills delayed by the Governor were considered to have received assent. The court clarified that Governors possess no discretionary power regarding such bills and must act according to the council of ministers' advice, establishing a three-month timeframe for resolving all pending bills. Opposition-governed states have consistently alleged that the BJP-led central government utilizes Governors' offices to create obstacles, impede development, and undermine elected governments' authority - accusations the BJP has rejected.