Overview The 15th Kerala Assembly is scheduled to commence its final session on January 20, 2026 . A significant point of contention is the fact that 14 Bills , duly passed by the House, are currently awaiting the assent of the Governor, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar . This delay has become a contentious issue between the State government and the Lok Bhavan (Governor's residence). Key Developments Bills Pending Assent A total of 14 Bills are awaiting the Governor's assent. Among these, three pertain to amendments to university laws, and one relates to motor transport workers. Some Bills, including the Kerala State Private Universities (Establishment and Regulation) Bill, 2025 , have been referred to the President for consideration. Assembly Session Highlights The session is scheduled for 32 days . The Governor will deliver a policy address on January 20, 2026 , marking the beginning of the Budget session. The 2026-27 State Budget will be presented on January 29, 2026 . Discussions on the Governor’s address are scheduled for January 22, 27, and 28 . General discussion on the Budget will take place from February 2 to 4 . The session is expected to continue until March 26, 2026 , subject to potential amendments based on Election Commission of India (EC) notifications. Legislative Performance The 15th Kerala Assembly has held sittings for 192 days . A total of 158 Bills have been passed during this period. UPSC Relevance This news is relevant to the UPSC Civil Services Exam as it touches upon several aspects of Indian Polity and Governance, particularly the relationship between the State government and the Governor, the legislative process, and Centre-State relations. It is pertinent to GS Paper II . Relevant Constitutional Provisions Article 254 (2) of the Constitution, which deals with amendments to Central Acts by the State, requiring the assent of the President. Key Issues The delay in granting assent to Bills raises questions about the Governor's role and discretionary powers. The referral of Bills to the President highlights the complexities of Centre-State legislative relations. Important Facts The Governor's role in assenting to Bills passed by the State Legislature. The process of reserving Bills for the President's consideration. The legislative competence of the State Legislature with respect to subjects in the State List and Concurrent List.