Governor’s warning

Power is like a sword in its sheath. It is enough that people know it is there. There is no need to take it out often and wave it. History teaches us that those who took it out often had gotten into trouble.

According to Article 360, the Central Government can announce an emergency. Indira Gandhi declared the emergency using the Constitution. After the emergency was lifted the people of India retaliated by voting Indira Gandhi and her son out of power.

Using Article 365, the Central Government can dismiss a state government. However, if it is used unnecessarily, then the federal system of India itself will be in jeopardy.

Governor, Arif Mohammad Khan’s tweet saying that Ministers can be disqualified if Governor’s position is demeaned is an example of showing power by waving the sword. There is no need for that. Beyond power, it is the courtesies shown by those in power that sustain democracy without much harm.

If the Governor dismisses a minister without the advice of the Chief Minister, it will lead to huge political protests and law issues. It would result only in a big loss for the people.

Threats such as this will only demean the honor of the Governorship.

However, when criticizing the Governor, the ministers who are holding constitutional positions must also show some decorum. The CPI(M) State Secretary can accuse the Governor of implementing the agenda of the RSS. But, it is not good when a Minister says such statements. It is appropriate that every minister in the government remember the undignified language used by a former minister.

Everyone must be aware of the dignity of the position they are holding. A common man can say anything that comes to his mind. But that does not apply to Governor, Chief Minister, Ministers, and to other elected representatives. Such unofficial statements will only degrade their position in society.

The Governor-Chief Minister conflict began with the issue of Universities. There is a belief among the people that appointments to Universities are not transparent. There are many who support the Governor’s opinion in this regard. Universities are not to become a haven for nepotism. That will be great harm to the future generation.

Meanwhile, no one must be avoided just because he is a relative of someone in power. Everything must be done transparently and according to the law. That is where the Governor and government must intervene.

The Governor and the Chief Minister must speak talk with each other openly and find solutions to the issues. They must end their hostilities as soon as possible. The government must utilize the remaining time to complete those things that are useful to the people.

The Governor must also make sure that he does not take the sword out of its sheath unnecessarily.