The Governor is the chief executive head of a state in India, similar to the President at the central level, and is appointed by the President of India. The Governor's role in a state is similar to that of the President at the Center in terms of being a nominal or titular executive head. Here are the key aspects of the Governor's role and tenure in the states:
Appointment:
- The Governor is appointed by the President of India by warrant under his hand and seal.
- The Governor is not elected either directly by the people or indirectly by an electoral college; instead, the President appoints the Governor, making the Governor a nominee of the Central Government.
Qualifications and Conditions:
➤ Qualifications:
- Must be a citizen of India.
- Must be at least 35 years old.
➤ Conditions:
- Cannot be a member of Parliament or a state legislature; if such a person is appointed, they are deemed to have vacated their seat.
- Cannot hold any other office of profit.
- Is entitled to the use of the official residence without payment of rent (the Raj Bhavan).
- Receives emoluments and allowances determined by Parliament.
- If the same person is appointed as Governor of multiple states, emoluments and allowances are shared by those states in proportions determined by the President.
- Emoluments and allowances cannot be diminished during the term.
Oath of Office:
➤ Before assuming office, the Governor must make and subscribe to an oath or affirmation, swearing to:
- Faithfully execute the office.
- Preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution and the law.
- Devote themselves to the service and well-being of the people of the state.
➤ The oath of office is administered by the Chief Justice of the High Court of the state or, in the absence of the Chief Justice, the senior-most judge of the High Court.
Tenure and Removal:
- Term: The Governor holds office for five years from the date of assuming office but serves at the pleasure of the President, meaning they can be removed at any time without stating reasons.
- Transfer and Reappointment: The President can transfer a Governor from one state to another and can reappoint a Governor in the same state or another state.
- Holding Office: A Governor may continue in office beyond their term until a successor assumes charge.
Dual Role:
➤ The Governor has a dual role:
- As the chief executive head of the state, performing constitutional duties in a ceremonial capacity.
- As an agent of the Central Government, which means the Governor must sometimes perform duties as directed by the President, particularly in cases of political instability in the state.
Overall, the Governor plays a crucial role in the administration of the state and acts as a key link between the state and the central government.
Governor : Executive Powers
Governor : Legislative Powers
Governor : Financial and Judicial Powers
Governor : Discretionary Power
Articles : Governor
64th BPSC
Q. The Governor of a State is appointed by-
A. the Prime Minister
B. the Chief Justice of the High Court
C. the Chief Justice of India
D. None of the above
53-55th BPSC
Q. Who is the Constitutional Head of the State Governments?
A. Chief Minister
B. Governor
C. Speaker
D. None of the above
