Consider the following statements:
I. The Constitution of India explicitly mentions that in certain spheres the Governor of a State acts in his/her own discretion.
II. The President of India can, of his/her own, reserve a bill passed by a State Legislature for his/her consideration without it being forwarded by the Governor of the State concerned.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Statement I – Correct Yes, the Constitution explicitly mentions that the Governor can act in his discretion in certain matters. Article 163(1) and Article 200 (re: reservation of bills) imply discretionary powers. Most notably, in matters like: Reserving a bill for President’s consideration, Appointing CM in a hung assembly, Sending reports to President under Article 356. Source: Laxmikanth, Chapter on Governor; Article 163. Statement II – ❌ Incorrect The President cannot reserve a State bill on their own. As per Article 200 and Article 201, only the Governor can reserve a bill for the President’s consideration. President acts only after the bill is reserved by the Governor. Source: Indian Constitution – Articles 200 and 201; Laxmikanth.