Following a strong directive from the Supreme Court, Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi has given assent to nine legislative Bills that were previously sent back to the State Assembly for reconsideration. This move comes after the apex court reminded governors across India of their constitutional duty not to delay or indefinitely withhold approval, emphasizing the importance of responsible governance.
Among the cleared Bills is the key Tamil Nadu Fiscal Responsibility (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aimed at boosting fiscal discipline and transparency in state finances. Despite earlier withholding his assent and requiring fresh deliberations, the Governor approved the Bill after it was unanimously passed again in the Assembly, reaffirming the government’s commitment to financial reforms. Other Bills signed include measures to enhance former MLAs’ pensions and replace jail terms with fines for minor offences, signaling a rare instance of legislative harmony between Raj Bhavan and Fort St George under judicial scrutiny.
With this approval, all nine Bills are set for notification in the Tamil Nadu Government Gazette, marking the conclusion of their legislative process and demonstrating compliance with constitutional principles following years of friction between the Governor and the State government.