Stalin lauded the Supreme Court for delivering the judgement, which he called a "massive win" for democratic governance.
Published May 04, 2025 | 11:00 AM ⚊ Updated May 04, 2025 | 11:22 AM
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin.
Synopsis: Academics and educationists from across Tamil Nadu honoured Chief Minister MK Stalin for securing a landmark Supreme Court judgement that mandated time-bound action from Governors.
At a grand felicitation event at Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai on Saturday, 4 May, academics and educationists from across Tamil Nadu came together to honour Chief Minister MK Stalin for securing a landmark Supreme Court judgement. The verdict mandates time-bound action from Governors on the bills passed by state Legislatures and affirms the chief minister’s authority in appointing Vice-Chancellors of universities.
On behalf of private self-financing colleges, the Federation of Self-Financing Colleges presented a symbolic sceptre (Sengol) to Stalin in recognition of the legal and political milestone.
Addressing the gathering, Stalin began by expressing humility. “Generally, I don’t allocate time to attend events organised just to praise me,” he said. “However, this is different. I’m here because this felicitation is for a Supreme Court judgement that upholds the rights of the people of Tamil Nadu. I’m overwhelmed by your affection.”
He dismissed the title “Champion of State Autonomy” printed on the event invitation. “That’s not me,” he said. “The real champions are the people of Tamil Nadu who voted for the DMK and stood by the cause of federalism.”
Stalin lauded the Supreme Court for delivering the judgement, which he called a “massive win” for democratic governance.
“The judgement has tied a bell around the cat. Governors now have a one-month deadline to decide on bills, a three-month limit to withhold assent, and three months to refer them to the President. If a bill is re-passed by the legislature, the Governor must assent immediately. 10 bills previously stalled by the Governor have now been enacted,” he said.
“The court has made it clear: Governors must respect the will of elected governments,” Stalin declared. “This verdict imposes time limits not only on Governors but also on the President. It is a historic judgement that reinforces the dignity of elected state governments.”
He rhetorically asked, “If a Governor, who is merely a Union-appointed agent, can block welfare schemes, what respect is left for the people’s vote?”
Taking a swipe at those critical of the verdict, Stalin remarked, “Even the Vice President has started expressing concerns, claiming Parliament has more powers. That’s exactly what we’ve been warning against — centralised overreach. Can the President take over the prime minister’s powers and expect it to be accepted? Then how can the Governor override a chief minister?”
He added that a dedicated committee has been formed to reclaim and protect state autonomy in light of the new ruling.
Addressing speculation about his government’s friction with the Governor, Stalin clarified, “We are not in a power struggle with him. There’s no personal enmity. I recently attended an event at the Raj Bhavan and spoke warmly. However, if a future Governor behaves in the same obstructive manner, we will oppose it. We will never give up our constitutional rights.”
In a sharp remark, he added, “As far as I’m concerned, let this Governor continue. That way, our stature will grow and his will diminish. He has no real influence.”
Shifting focus to education and youth, Stalin reaffirmed his government’s commitment to rationalism and scientific temper. “Educational institutions must not become spaces that promote irrational myths or blind beliefs. If they engage in such acts or invite those who do, strict action will be taken,” he warned.
“Education is the foundation of everything. It is an asset no one can take away,” Stalin said. He advised students not to seek role models on social media or think of platforms like Instagram as viable career alternatives. “Social media is just entertainment. Don’t believe you can earn without studying. No matter what obstacles come your way, we will ensure you get to study,” he promised.
Stalin concluded with a note of determination: “This judgement is not a full stop — it is a comma. It reminds us that we must work even harder. We will never give up our rights. We have the people’s mandate, and we will honour it.”
(Edited by Muhammed Fazil.)
