New Delhi: In a significant move asserting state rights, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has established a high-level committee led by retired Supreme Court judge Kurian Joseph to examine issues concerning state autonomy. This initiative follows the Supreme Court’s recent judgment against Governor RN Ravi for withholding assent to 10 state bills, a decision deemed “illegal and erroneous.”
The newly formed committee will evaluate the dynamics between the Centre and states, with the goal of reinforcing federal principles. An interim report is expected by January 2026, with a comprehensive final report due in two years.
Push for Greater State Powers
The move comes days after the Supreme Court ruled that 10 bills passed by the Tamil Nadu Assembly had effectively become law despite the Governor’s lack of assent. The court underscored that once the legislature re-passes a bill, the Governor is constitutionally obliged to provide assent unless the bill is significantly altered. These bills had been pending since 2020.
Describing the verdict as “historic,” Stalin called it a victory for all Indian states. “The Supreme Court’s ruling is not just a win for Tamil Nadu but a boost for all state governments,” he said.
Committee Will Examine State-List to Concurrent-List Transfers
The committee will also explore the legal framework for transferring certain subjects from the Concurrent List back to the State List. Members include former bureaucrat Ashok Vardhan Shetty and ex-State Planning Commission vice-chairman M. Naganathan.
This announcement follows the President’s rejection of Tamil Nadu’s demand to be exempted from NEET—a decision Stalin slammed as a blow to federalism. He reiterated his opposition to NEET and the National Education Policy (NEP), alleging both erode state rights. Stalin also highlighted that the Centre withheld ₹2,500 crore in funds because Tamil Nadu did not adopt the NEP.
Also read: Stalin Accuses Centre of Forcing Hindi; Amit Shah Demands Tamil Curriculum Reforms
Calling for the reversal of the 42nd Constitutional Amendment, which moved education to the Concurrent List, Stalin urged that education be restored as a state subject. “NEET has claimed the lives of many students in Tamil Nadu. We have consistently opposed it,” he added.