In a significant development, the Supreme Court voiced “serious concern” over the conduct of Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi regarding the reinduction of senior DMK leader K Ponmudi into the state cabinet. The Governor’s refusal to reinstate Ponmudi, despite Chief Minister M K Stalin’s recommendation and a recent stay on Ponmudi’s conviction by the apex court, has drawn criticism from the highest judicial authority.

A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud directed the Governor to decide on Ponmudi’s reinduction within 24 hours, expressing dismay over what they perceived as a defiance of the Supreme Court’s orders. The bench questioned the Governor’s assertion that Ponmudi’s reinduction would violate “constitutional morality,” emphasizing the Governor’s obligation to adhere to constitutional principles.

During the proceedings, the bench highlighted the Governor’s role as a ceremonial head of the state and stressed the importance of respecting parliamentary democracy. Attorney General R Venkataramani, representing the government, acknowledged the concerns raised by the bench and underscored the necessity for the Governor to abide by constitutional law.

Chief Justice Chandrachud emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the Governor’s actions amounted to taking on the Supreme Court itself. The bench reiterated its intention to pass an order directing the Governor to act in accordance with constitutional principles if no resolution was reached within the stipulated time frame.

The state government has sought a directive from the court for the Governor to act upon the advice of the council of ministers led by Chief Minister M K Stalin. The standoff underscores the delicate balance of power between the executive and the judiciary, with the Supreme Court asserting its authority to ensure adherence to constitutional norms.