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Chief Minister

  • May 15, 2025
  • Posted by: Beauty Kumari
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According to Article 164 of the Indian Constitution, the Chief Minister is appointed by the Governor. The leader of the party that secures a majority in the assembly elections is chosen as the CM. While the Governor holds a nominal executive position, the real executive power lies with the Chief Minister. However, the Governor’s discretionary powers somewhat limit the CM’s influence, authority, and role in the state’s administration.

If someone who is not a member of the state legislature is appointed as CM, they must be elected to the legislature within six months. If they fail to do so, they lose the position of Chief Minister.

Term of Office:
 The CM’s term is not fixed and lasts as long as they retain the Governor’s confidence. The Governor cannot dismiss a CM as long as they maintain majority support in the legislative assembly. However, the legislative assembly can remove the CM by passing a vote of no-confidence.

Powers and Functions:

Regarding the Council of Ministers:
 The Governor can only appoint ministers recommended by the Chief Minister. The CM is responsible for allocating and reshuffling portfolios among ministers and can cause the collapse of the council of ministers by resigning, as they head the council.

Regarding the Governor:
 Under Article 167, the CM acts as a liaison between the Governor and the state council of ministers. The CM advises the Governor on key appointments, such as the advocate general, the chairman and members of the State Public Service Commission, and the State Election Commission.

Regarding the State Legislature:
 The CM announces policies in the legislative assembly and recommends the dissolution of the assembly to the Governor when necessary.

Other Responsibilities:

  • The CM chairs the State Planning Board.
  • They serve as the vice-chairman of the zonal council by rotation, with a one-year tenure.
  • The CM is a member of the Inter-State Council and the Governing Council of NITI Aayog, both headed by the Prime Minister.
  • As the chief spokesperson of the state government, the CM represents the government to the public.
  • They act as the political leader during emergencies, managing crises.
  • The CM interacts with various sections of society, addressing their concerns and receiving memoranda.

The CM holds the position of political head of the state services.

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