Chief Minister

Introduction

The Chief Minister of the State is the head of the state government. Infact, the Governor of the State is the nominal executive of the state government whereas, on the other hand, the chief minister is the real executive of the government.

How is a Chief Minister appointed?

There is no specific provision in the Constitution based on which the Chief Minister of the State is chosen. But yes, we have Article 164 in the Indian Constitution, as per it, the Governor appoints Chief Minister. Eligibility:

• He/ She should be the leader of the party that has got the majority of votes in the assembly elections.
• When no party secures majority, the Governor chooses on his own the Chief Minister of the State.
• He/ She can be the member of the largest party or one from the coalition. If it is a coalition, then he is given one month of time frame to prove his confidence in the house.

Relationship Between the Chief Minister and the Governor

There are three articles in the constitution that deal with the relationship between the Chief Minister of the state and the state’s governor.

1. Article 163: The State Governor acts on the advice given to the council of ministers headed by the Chief Minister of the State.
2. Article 164: First, the State Governor appoints the Chief Minister. Then, based on the Chief Minister’s recommendation, a council of ministers is appointed by the Governor.
3. Article 167: Chief Minister of the State can take administrative decisions along with the State but at the same time, it has to be communicated to the State Governor.

Functions:

1. He/ She is the head of the State Planning Board.
2. He/ She is a vice-chairperson of the concerned zonal council by rotation.
3. He/ She is a member of Inter-State Council and National Development Council which comes under the Prime Minister of India.
4. Based on his/ her recommendation, a council of ministers are appointed by the State Governor.
5. The activities of the ministers are under the control and guidance of the Chief Minister.
6. Based on the list submitted by the Chief Minister, the Governor appoints the Advocate-General, Chairman of state Public Service Commision, and the State Election Commision.

References:

https://byjus.com/free-ias-prep/chief-minister-and-council-of-ministers/

https://in.pinterest.com/pin/1057008975016820846/

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