76 DR. BABASAHEB AMBEDKAR : WRITINGS AND SPEECHES
sure about it that the only question that can arise for consideration is, what direction was given, whether the direction was proper, and whether any steps were taken to see that the directions were carried out. If the Central Government in its wisdom, in its discretion, felt that notwithstanding the fact that there were elements in the situation which called for the issue of an order, did not think it necessary, proper or wise to give a direction, then the Central Government could not be called to account for failure to do so. That, I submit, is a distinction which must be borne in mind.
Pandit Kunzru: How does my friend come to that conclusion ?
Dr. Ambedkar: That is how I read it. My friend, as I said, may read it differently ; I know, and people who are, if I may say so, more enthusiastic than cautious may probably like to give a more stretched meaning to this article. But looking at it from this point of view, from the fact that the Constitution has vested the States with the right to administer their affairs, and has only given what may be called in the case of States in Part B certain residuary powers to give directions on certain matters and on certain occasions, this power which may be exercised, as I said, under article 371 must be of a very limited character. My submission, therefore, is that although as I read article 371, I cannot help accepting the conclusion that it does admit the possibility of discussing a matter relating to the administration of States in Part B, it must be of a very narrow character. That is all I have to say.
The Minister of Transport and Railways (Shri Gopalaswami): I only want to refer to one particular point. If you are going to give a general ruling on the applicability of article 371, its interpretation and the admissibility of an adjournment motion, based upon that article, I should like you, Sir, to defer your ruling till other Members like me have put certain points before you. But if you are going to reject this motion on the short ground on which the Hon. Law Minister ended his speech, I need not waste the time of the House by puting these points before you.