Supreme Court: Governors Cannot Withhold Bills Indefinitely, Warns Against Stalling Legislatures

The Supreme Court has strongly asserted that a Governor withholding bills indefinitely renders the state legislature "defunct" and violates the Constitution's democratic framework.

During hearings on a presidential reference, the Court emphasised that Governors must act on bills within a reasonable time, as prolonged inaction undermines the elected government's mandate.

The bench cautioned against using the gubernatorial office to stall legislative processes, stressing that such delays disrupt governance and public welfare.