CM Stalin Vows to Take Collective Legal Route, Defends Federalism
Udhagamandalam (Tamil Nadu), May 16 — Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin on Friday announced that his government will consult with other state chief ministers and political leaders regarding President Droupadi Murmu's move to seek the Supreme Court's opinion on whether judicial orders can impose timelines on the President’s discretion in dealing with state legislation.Addressing reporters, Stalin stated, “We will seek the opinion of other state chief ministers and leaders and based on that, will take due steps.”
This development follows President Murmu invoking Article 143(1) of the Constitution, a rarely used provision that empowers the President to consult the Supreme Court on questions of law or public importance. The move comes in the backdrop of an April 8 Supreme Court verdict addressing the Tamil Nadu government's concerns about the Governor’s delay in granting assent to bills passed by the state legislature.
Rare Use of Presidential Reference Sparks Political Debate
Article 143(1) enables the President to seek the Supreme Court’s opinion if a legal or factual question arises that holds significant public importance. The President’s reference aims to clarify whether a fixed timeline can be judicially mandated for the President while acting on state bills.Chief Minister Stalin sharply criticised the use of the Presidential reference route, alleging political motives. On Thursday, he condemned the BJP-led central government, calling the move a reflection of its “sinister intent.”
Stalin, who also leads the ruling DMK, urged non-BJP states to unite in a legal battle to protect the federal structure and constitutional norms. He has consistently voiced opposition to what he perceives as central overreach into state affairs.
"Dravidian Model" Will Prevail in Future Elections, Says Stalin
When asked about the DMK’s electoral prospects, Stalin projected confidence beyond the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. “Not only next year, the Dravidian model government will continue after the state elections in 2031 and 2036 as well,” he asserted.Stalin’s “Dravidian model” emphasizes inclusive and development-focused governance, a central theme of his administration since coming to power.
Context and Implications
The Supreme Court’s upcoming deliberation on the Presidential reference could set a crucial precedent on the federal balance of power and the autonomy of states. Tamil Nadu’s initiative to involve other states suggests a coordinated front may emerge among opposition-ruled governments.The political ramifications are also significant, as the ruling DMK continues to frame its governance as a defense of constitutional values and state rights in the face of central intervention.
