NEW DELHI, India: Are Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and President Venkataraman falling apart? Speculation about the rift between the two began soon after the government decision to send troops to Sri Lanka, something on which the President is believed to have reservations. That situation reportedly deteriorated when the President insisted that the Governors should ‘obtain his permission before leaving their respective States for the two days Governors’ Conference here.
Political observers compared today’s scenario to the similar situation that had developed between Venkataraman’s predecessor, Zail Singh and Rajiv Gandhi, They believe that the reoccurrence is directly linked to the struggle between the Prime Minister and the President’s powers with both seeking to control the Governors, The implication is if the Prime Minister wants to intervene in State politics ‘especially those ruled by non-Congress(I) governments, it is essential to wield influence over the governor
Addressing the Governors, President Venkataraman called upon them to restrict their trips outside their States reminding them that ‘maintaining law and order in their area was their priority number ‘one. The President sent a circular soon after assuming office asking Governors to seek permission before leaving their States which is said to have angered the Prime Minister’s Secretariat that believes that Venkataraman should have been more doscreet. The Presidents insistence on the issue, however, is said to have stemmed from his not being in mood for compromise, Some politicians are of the opinion that the present move is directed against the Rajasthan Governor, Vasant Dada Patil, and Andhra Pradesh Governor. Mr.
Shah, Both these Governors are known to dash to Delhi for the most inconsequential reasons.
Article extracted from this publication >> November 20, 1987
