Governor: Appointment, Powers, and Controversies
TOPIC CLASSIFICATION
Subject: Polity | Topic: State Executive Sub-topic: Governor - Appointment, Powers (executive, legislative, financial, discretionary), Controversies Prelims Focus: Article 155-156; qualifications; oath; powers; Article 163 (aid and advice); Article 200 (bill reservation) Mains Focus: Governor as Centre's agent vs constitutional head, discretionary powers, Article 356 misuse, Punchhi Commission recommendations
EXAMINER REASONING
The Governor is the constitutional head of a state but often becomes a point of friction in Centre-state relations. UPSC Prelims tests specific articles and powers. Mains questions analyse the Sarkaria and Punchhi Commission recommendations, the Governor's role in hung assemblies, and the controversy around Article 356 (President's Rule).
Core Concept
The Governor is the constitutional head of a state under Article 153, acting as the nominal executive. The Governor is appointed by the President and holds office "during the pleasure of the President" (Article 156).
Appointment and Tenure
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Appointment | By the President of India (on PM's recommendation) |
| Eligibility (Art. 157) | Citizen of India; 35+ years; not a member of Parliament or state legislature |
| Term (Art. 156) | Normally 5 years; holds office during President's pleasure - can be removed... |
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