Powers of the Governor in Indian States Executive, Legislative

Subject : Social Science

Question:

What are the powers of the Governor of a state?

Expert Verified Solution:

The Governor is the constitutional head of a state in India and holds various executive, legislative, judicial, and discretionary powers. Appointed by the President of India, the Governor’s powers include:

2. Executive Powers:

• The Governor appoints the Chief Minister and other members of the Council of Ministers.
• S/he appoints the Advocate General and other top state officials.
• The Governor has the power to recommend President’s Rule in case of a breakdown of constitutional machinery in the state.

2. Legislative Powers:

• The Governor summons, prorogues, and dissolves the state legislature.
• S/he addresses the state legislature at the beginning of the first session each year.
• The Governor gives assent to bills passed by the state legislature, sends them for reconsideration, or reserves them for the President’s consideration.

3. Judicial Powers:

• The Governor has the power to grant pardons, reprieves, or commute sentences, especially in cases involving the death penalty.

4. Discretionary Powers:

• The Governor may act at their discretion in situations like recommending President’s Rule or appointing a Chief Minister when there is no clear majority.

The Governor’s role is mainly ceremonial, but in certain situations, particularly when the state’s political situation is unstable, the Governor’s discretionary powers can become crucial.