Rare presidential reference triggers juridical debate

President Murmu seeks Supreme Court guidance on timelines and powers regarding state bills, igniting debate on executive discretion and federal balance.

President Droupadi Murmu’s decision to seek the Supreme Court’s advisory opinion on critical constitutional questions marks a rare and significant moment in India’s constitutional jurisprudence. The reference, made under Article 143 of the Constitution – the Supreme Court’s advisory jurisdiction -- seeks to clarify the legal framework surrounding the timelines and powers of the President and governors when deciding on state bills reserved for assent.

President Droupadi Murmu. (X)

This development follows the Supreme Court’s April 8 judgment, which prescribed specific timelines within which