RAIPUR: Amidst nine bills passed by the legislative assembly in Chhattisgarh awaiting the governor's assent, state Law and Legislative Affairs Minister Ravindra Choubey stated on Friday that the Supreme Court's decision in the Punjab case serves as a guideline for Governors across states.
Choubey informed TOI that nine bills, including two aimed at increasing reservation in government jobs and educational institutions, have been pending with Raj Bhawan for an extended period. He emphasized that an elected government has the authority to pass bills, and if the Governor cannot sign them, they should be returned to the Vidhan Sabha, as per constitutional provisions. Choubey added, "For me, the Supreme Court’s judgments in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Punjab cases serve as guidelines for Governors in all states."
Asserting that the Congress expects to retain power in the upcoming elections, the senior Congress leader stated, "We are awaiting the assembly election results on December 3. Later, we will decide on our strategy regarding these pending bills. The recent decision of the Apex court is clear – Governors cannot stall bills by withholding their assent."