The Tamil Nadu Government has taken its grievances to the Supreme Court after Governor RN Ravi’s decision to decline the re-induction of MLA K Ponmudi as a Minister in the State Government. Filing an interlocutory application in an earlier writ petition against the Governor over delays in assenting to bills, the State seeks a stay on the Governor’s decision made on March 17 and urges a direction for the Governor to act in accordance with the Chief Minister’s recommendation to appoint Ponmudi as a Minister.
Senior Advocate AM Singhvi, along with Senior Advocate P. Wilson, emphasized the urgency of the matter before Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud. Singhvi highlighted the Governor’s actions, stating, “This is the same errant Governor, who was earlier dealt with by this Court. Court stays his (Ponmudi’s) conviction. Chief Minister recommends his appointment. Then Governor writes a letter saying it is constitutionally immoral for him to appoint…”
Responding to the urgency, CJI DY Chandrachud instructed Singhvi to circulate an email, assuring prompt consideration of the request.
The State contends that under Article 164(1) of the Constitution, the Governor must act on the Chief Minister’s recommendation for ministerial appointments. Accusing the Governor of attempting to run a parallel government and disregarding court judgments, the State argues that the Governor’s refusal constitutes contempt of court, citing the Supreme Court’s ruling in the Lok Prahari case.
Last week, the Supreme Court stayed Ponmudi’s conviction in a Disproportionate Assets case, allowing him to continue as an MLA. Despite this, Governor RN Ravi expressed concerns over Ponmudi’s re-induction, citing moral turpitude and corruption charges. The Governor’s letter to Chief Minister MK Stalin emphasized that Ponmudi’s conviction remains suspended, not overturned.
The legal tussle underscores the constitutional roles of the Governor and Chief Minister, with the Supreme Court poised to adjudicate on the matter and resolve the political impasse in Tamil Nadu.
