Governor — Constitutional Role vs Political Reality

Knowledge Themes

Structural Subtopics

• Constitutional provisions for appointment and removal of Governor
• Dual role as constitutional head and agent of the Centre
• Discretionary powers under Article 163 and situational discretion
• Reservation of Bills for Presidential assent under Article 200
• Role in hung assemblies and appointment of Chief Minister
• Criteria and process for dismissal of a State Government
• Imposition of President's Rule under Article 356 and Sarkaria Commission recommendations
• Governor's role as Chancellor of State Universities and associated controversies
• Ordinance-making power and its limitations under Article 213
• Pardoning powers and comparison with the President under Article 161
• Punchhi Commission recommendations on fixed tenure and removal process
• Conflict between the Governor and elected Council of Ministers
• Immunity from judicial and criminal proceedings during tenure
• Impact of the Governor's office on federalism and Centre-State relations