Chief Minister - State Executive | SSC CGL Tier 2 - Study Material, Online Tests, Previous Year PDF Download

Chief Minister's Role and Appointment Process

The Chief Minister, akin to the Prime Minister at the national level, is appointed by the Governor in accordance with Article 164 of the Constitution. The individual chosen for this role is typically the leader of the party or coalition that secures the highest number of votes in the state's assembly elections.

The Governor holds formal executive authority, while the Chief Minister exercises real executive authority.

Appointment Process

• The Governor appoints the leader of the largest party or coalition in the house as the Chief Minister.

• In the absence of a clear majority, the Governor may exercise situational discretion, appointing a leader who must then demonstrate majority support in the parliament.

• If the Chief Minister passes away without a successor, the Governor may use discretionary powers unless the ruling party nominates a replacement, leaving the Governor with no choice but to make the appointment.

• Failure to become a member of either house within six months results in the loss of the Chief Minister's position.

• The Governor can appoint the Chief Minister but cannot dismiss them without a majority in the house.

Term and Powers of the Chief Minister

• The Chief Minister serves at the pleasure of the Governor, with no fixed term.

• Dismissal by the Governor is contingent upon losing majority support in the legislature or facing a vote of no confidence.

• The Chief Minister plays a pivotal role in the appointment of ministers, reshuffling portfolios, and dissolving the council of ministers if necessary.

• Acting as a liaison between the Governor and the state council of ministers, the Chief Minister provides advice on significant appointments.

Other Responsibilities

• Serving as the State Planning Board's chairman and the vice-chairman of the relevant zonal council by rotation, the Chief Minister also participates in national bodies like the Prime Minister's Inter-State Council and the NITI Aayog Governing Council.

• The Chief Minister serves as the chief spokesperson for the state government, oversees crisis management at the political level, and interacts with diverse groups, addressing their concerns.

• As the political leader of the services, the Chief Minister articulates all policies on the legislative floor.

Conclusion:

• The Chief Minister ensures that all decisions of the council of ministers are communicated to the Governor, advising on critical appointments, thereby playing a vital role in the Indian Constitution and state administration.