Centre undermining independence of SC: Law Minister Regupathy

Tamil Nadu Law Minister accuses Union government of undermining Supreme Court independence, criticizes lack of consultation on educational policies.

Tamil Nadu Law Minister S. Regupathy on Saturday accused the Union government of attempting to undermine the independence of the Supreme Court.

Commenting on Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s recent criticism of the apex court’s verdict that set a timeline for the President and Governor to take decisions on Bills passed by State Assemblies, he said, “The Union government does not want the Supreme Court to function independently. That is why they have made the Vice-President speak against the verdict.” Mr. Regupathy told reporters here such statements were inappropriate, especially when court judgments on important matters, such as the Waqf Amendment Act, were awaited.

“This is a democratic country. Any individual who believes that a law passed by Parliament adversely affects them has the right to approach the judiciary,” he said, reiterating the Supreme Court’s role in protecting Constitutional rights.

In response to a question on the Centre’s role in framing educational policies, Mr. Regupathy criticised the Union government for not consulting States on matters under the Concurrent List. “We have never questioned the Centre’s authority over subjects in the Union List. But education falls under the Concurrent List. Shouldn’t the Centre consult State governments? Shouldn’t our views be taken into account?” he asked.