The Supreme Court today ordered the restoration of former Chief Minister Nabam Tuki’s Congress government in Arunachal Pradesh. A five-judge constitution bench pronounced the verdict on a bunch of petitions dealing with discretionary powers of Governor Jyoti Prasad Rajkhowa to summon or advance the assembly session.
It said, the Governor’s direction on conducting assembly proceedings is unconstitutional. The court set aside all steps and decision taken by the Legislative Assembly pursuant to Governor’s December 9th, last year order saying that they are unsustainable.
The apex court had, in February, reserved its judgement in the case for today. It had said the verdict will not only have its effect on Arunachal Pradesh, but affect every state.
Kalikho Pul will have to vacate the seat following the court’s order.
Just before the court had reserved its verdict, rebel Congress leader Kalikho Pul was sworn-in as the ninth Chief Minister of the state. He got the support of 18 dissident Congress MLAs and two independents, with 11 BJP MLAs giving him outside support.
Nabam Tuki has termed the verdict as historic. He told news agency PTI that with the verdict, democracy has been protected. Asked about his future course of action, Mr Tuki said he will consult party legislators and the decision will be taken as per the court order and party ideology.
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Kalikho Pul today said that he would file review petition of today’s Supreme Court verdict. Reacting to the apex court judgement, Mr.Pul said he is waiting for the detailed judgment first. Mr. Pul further said that he formed the government by proving majority in the floor of the House with the support of 32 MLAs.
MoS for Home Kiren Rijiju said that the Centre wil abide by the Supreme Court verdict on Arunachal Pradesh judgement. He said that the Centre has no role in it and acted on the Governor’s report. BJP Spokesperson Nalin Kohli said that BJP does not need lesson from the Congress party.
