New Delhi, Aug. 27 -- The Supreme Court on Tuesday raised concerns over whether it is expected to remain powerless if the President of India or governors indefinitely withhold assent to bills passed by elected state legislatures for years.

"Both houses of legislature have given approval. then why should the President or governor sit on it for an indefinite period of time? We appreciate that we cannot a fix timetable but if someone sits, will the court be powerless?" a Constitution bench led by Chief Justice of India Bhushan R Gavai remarked, as it continued hearing the presidential reference on whether the courts can prescribe timelines for gubernatorial and presidential assent.

The bench, also comprising justices Surya Kant, Vikram Nat...