The Powers and Authority of the Governor :
i. Executive Related Power :
According to Article 154 of the constitution, all executive powers of the state are vested with the Governor, which he uses himself or with the help of subordinate officers. He appoints the Chief Minister and other ministers on his consultation. He appoints the Advocate General and the Chairman and members of the State Public Service Commission. In relation to the appointment of High Court judges, the President consults the respective state Governor. The Executive powers of the Governor are detailed to the subjects mentioned in the state list. Regarding the work of the state Government, he makes rules. He divides works between the ministers. He has the right to get information regarding all subjects related to the governance from the Chief Minister. He can ask the Chief Minister to keep any minister’s personal decision for consideration before the cabinet. The Governor administers oath of office and secrecy to the members of the Council of Ministers. He accepts their resignation letter and also releases them from charge on advise of the Chief Minister.
ii. Legislative powers :
The governor is an integral part of the state’s legislature and he has got important powers in the legislature. He calls and suspends session of the legislature, and addresses the lower House/Legislative Assembly of the legislature. The governor’s approval is required on the bill passed by the state Assembly. He can reject the bill or return it to the legislature for reconsideration. If the legislature passes the bill second time then the governor will have to approve it. He can keep safe some bills for the President’s consideration. The governor can issue an ordinance which will be recognized as similar to the Act passed by the state legislature. The governor nominates 1/6 members of the legislative Council from such people who have special and practical knowledge in the fields of literature, arts, science, cooperative movement and social service. If he thinks that the Anglo-Indian community has not received proper representation in the Assembly, then he can nominate one member of this class.
iii. Financial powers :
The Governor also receives some financial powers. No money bill can be submitted without the prior approval of the Governor in the state assembly. He presents the budget every year before the legislature and no grants can be demanded without his permission. The consolidated fund of the state lies in the authority of the Governor.
iv. Judicial Powers :
According to Article 161, the governor may reduce the punishment of those who commit crimes against state. He advises the President in the appointment of Chief Justice of the High Court of his state. He appoints district Judges. He cannot be prosecuted by any Court of law due to any defect.
v. Other Powers :
The Governor gives information to the President about the failure of the constitutional system in the state and the President’s rule is enforced on his information.
