Q: What is the recent issue in Tamil Nadu related to the NEET exemption Bill?
A: There is a legal conflict in Tamil Nadu concerning the NEET exemption Bill. The Governor's decision to return the bill, expressing reservations about its impact on underprivileged students, has raised questions about the legality of his actions and the legislative process.
Q: What is the role of the Governor in the legislative process?
A: The Governor, as a constitutional entity, is part of the state's "Legislature." When bills are presented to the Governor for consideration, he can take one of three actions:
• assent to the bill,
• return the bill or
• withhold assent.
• Pocket veto is an option too
• He may reserve the bill for the President's consideration.
Q: Why did the Chief Minister refer to the Governor as a "postman"?
A: The Chief Minister's comment highlights the Governor's limited role in the legislative process. The term "postman" is used to convey that the Governor's primary function is to forward bills to the President for approval, rather than making substantive decisions about their content.
Q: What is the issue with the anti-NEET bill?
A: The anti-NEET bill seeks to exempt Tamil Nadu from the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET). The Governor's decision to return the bill has triggered discussions about his legal authority to do so and the proper process for bills related to subjects on the Concurrent List.
Q: What are the legal implications of this situation?
A: The situation raises legal questions about the Governor's powers in approving bills related to subjects on the Concurrent List. It also highlights the need for a clear understanding of the Governor's role in the legislative process and the legal validity of his actions.
Q: How can this legal issue be addressed?
A: To address this issue, it may be helpful to establish precise legal guidelines and procedures for the Governor's role in the legislative process. Inter State Council can do it(Art.263).This can ensure that conflicts like this are avoided and that the legal integrity of the legislative process is maintained.
Q: What is the significance of the "postman" analogy from a legal perspective?
A: The "postman" analogy underscores the Governor's procedural role in forwarding bills for consideration by the President. It reinforces that the Governor's authority is mainly administrative and procedural, with the focus on ensuring the proper transmission of bills rather than making substantive decisions about their content.