Article 200

News: The Supreme Court is currently hearing a case involving the Tamil Nadu government and Governor RN Ravi over delays in granting assent to Bills. The ruling in this case will set a precedent for other states facing similar issues.

About Article 200

Article 200 of the Indian Constitution deals with the Assent to Bills by the Governor. It outlines the options available to the Governor of a state when a Bill passed by the State Legislature is presented for approval.

When a Bill is passed by the State Legislature and sent to the Governor, the Governor has the following options:

1. Assent to the Bill – The Governor may give approval, making the Bill a law.
2. Withhold Assent – The Governor may refuse to sign the Bill.
3. Return the Bill – The Governor may return the Bill (if it is not a Money Bill) to the State Legislature with a request for reconsideration.
4. Reserve the Bill for the Consideration of the President – If the Governor believes that the Bill is against the provisions of the Constitution, is in conflict with a Central law, or affects national interests, s/he may refer it to the President. If the Bill is reserved for the President’s consideration, the President has the final authority to approve or reject it.

Significance of Article 200:

• It ensures a system of checks and balances between the State Legislature and the Governor.
• It allows the Governor and the President to safeguard Constitutional principles.
• The provision to return or reserve a Bill helps prevent hasty or unconstitutional legislation.