RN Ravi has been at odds with the Tamil Nadu government since the day he assumed office as Governor. Returning assembly-passed bills, delaying government recommendations, and making comments against the government have become routine.
The Supreme Court has repeatedly condemned the Tamil Nadu government whenever it takes legal action against the Governor. It has also made it clear that the Governor does not have the authority to withhold government bills. However, as Governor RN Ravi's approach remains unchanged, his conflict with the Tamil Nadu government continues to be a recurring issue.
Many, including the DMK and other political parties, accuse Governor RN Ravi of acting as a mouthpiece for the BJP and deliberately obstructing government work. Even Prime Minister Modi recently advised that governors should respect state government decisions and approve them promptly to uphold the dignity of the position.
In this context, Governor RN Ravi has approved several bills passed by the Tamil Nadu government. One such bill, which allows the government to appoint officers to manage the 28 district rural local bodies after their term ended, was passed in the Assembly last January. The bill was sent to the Governor for approval and, after a month’s delay, has now been signed, allowing the appointment process to proceed.
Similarly, a bill concerning taxation on mineral-rich lands in Tamil Nadu, which was passed in the Legislative Assembly last December, has also been approved by the Governor. However, the fact that the state government and people of Tamil Nadu had to wait anxiously for his approval, despite it being his duty, highlights the ongoing tension. That is why Tamil Nadu collectively expresses its relief and gratitude for the clearance of these bills.
Even yesterday, the Supreme Court questioned Governor RN Ravi about the delay in granting permission to register a case against former AIADMK minister Rajendra Balaji. The court has now ordered the Principal Secretary to the Governor to appear in person and file an affidavit regarding the matter.
The people of Tamil Nadu hope that such confrontations will not continue. They expect both the Tamil Nadu government and the Governor’s office to work together harmoniously. The state administration and the Governor must abandon their confrontational approach and build a cooperative relationship for the welfare of the people.