Raj Bhavan seeks opinion on role of Deputy Speaker

FROM OUR CORRESPONDENT

ITAGAR, Feb 8: In an interesting turn of events, the Raj Bhavan here has sought the opinion of the Secretary Law based on a letter written by T N Thongdok, asking if he can function as Deputy Speaker performing the duties of Speaker when President’s Rule is in place in the state.

In a letter to Secretary Law written on February 4 last, Raj Bhavan has asked the details to be furnished by the next day for the “perusal of the Governor”, taking many by surprise at the urgency shown.

Meanwhile, the bam Tuki led Congress has been quick in accusing Governor JP Rajkhowa of conspiring to help the dissident MLAs form a government with the support of BJP without waiting for a decision of the Supreme Court which is hearing petitions challenging imposition of President’s rule in the state.

Geetartha Darshan Barua, spokesperson for CLP leader and deposed Chief Minister bam Tuki said, “We have contended that the Governor is guided by malafide intention and he had taken all decisions keeping in mind vested interests. The Deputy Speaker’s letter to the Governor reflects the nexus between the two. Their fil aim is to lodge a government with the help of BJP without waiting for the Supreme Court order.”

In his letter, Thongdok has contended that although a five member Constitution Bench is hearing matters related to the session held on December 16 and 17 last year, the Speaker’s office is vacant as per the Gauhati High Court order dated January 13 last.

The Supreme Court, which is considering pleas against imposition of President’s Rule in Aruchal Pradesh, is hearing on petitions seeking examition of constitutiol schemes on the scope of discretiory powers of the Governor.