Mains Daily Question
Jan. 16, 2024
Q2. What are the Issues Related to the Office of Governor in India? Explain the suggestions given by various committees to tackle the issues.(10M, 150W)
Approach to the Answer: Understanding and structuring the answer: The question has two main headings: 1) Issues Related to the Office of Governor in India 2) Reforms Proposed by Various Commissions. Introduction: Type 1: Mention constitutional provisions regarding the office of Governor and Type 2: Link the constitutional provisions with the criticism of the office of Governor. Body: Heading 1: Issues Related to the Office of Governor in India: The office of the Governor has been criticized for certain issues. Heading 2: Reforms Proposed by Various Commissions: The issues in the office of Governor could be resolved through the application of the suggestions given by the various commissions. Conclusion: Give a forward-looking conclusion – Type 1: Mention the coordination between the center and state for successful functioning of India's federal structure. Type 2: Mention the link between the Governor, states and the Centre. |
Answer:
A governor is chosen by the President and serves "during the pleasure of the President," according to Articles 155 and 156 of the Constitution. Although the Governor holds the constitutional office but many a times, he is condemned for being the agent of the central government.
Issues Related to the Office of Governor in India
- Political Affiliation and Partisanship:
- The choice of a Governor can be influenced by political considerations which lead to accusations of partisanship.
- Constitutional Role and Discretion:
- The Governor's role is largely ceremonial but they do have discretionary powers, especially in matters like the appointment of the Chief Minister and the dissolution of the state assembly.
- Governor vs. State Government Conflicts:
- For example, Tamil Nadu governor R N Ravi skipped reading parts of the Governor’s Address, which is passed by the state cabinet as the government’s policy plan. This has created a tussle between the state government and the governor.
- Dismissal of State Governments:
- In some instances, Governors have recommended the dismissal of state governments, leading to debates on the misuse of constitutional powers.
- For example, As per recommendation of a report by Governor Ranjit Shekhar Mooshahary, the Meghalaya Assembly was placed under suspension in 2009 due to advice given by the central government for President’s rule. It created debates on the misuse of constitutional powers.
- Representation of Regional Interests:
- Governors are often individuals from outside the state they are appointed to. This can lead to concerns about their understanding of regional issues and their ability to represent the interests of the state effectively.
Reforms Proposed by Various Commissions
- The Administrative Reform Commission (1969):
- Appointment of nonpartisan individuals with extensive backgrounds in government and administration to serve as a state's governor.
- Sarkaria Commission (1983):
- Governors should be individuals of eminence in public life without active political affiliations.
- Consultation with the Chief Minister while appointing a Governor to ensure compatibility.
- The Governor should act on the advice of the Council of Ministers except in exceptional circumstances.
- Punchhi Commission (2007):
- Impeachment of the Governor should be similar to the President.
- Governors should be appointed after consulting the Chief Minister of the state concerned.
- The Governor should not be removed before completing their term except in exceptional circumstances.
- Clarification of the discretionary powers of the Governor to avoid ambiguity.
- Venkatachaliah Commission (2002):
- Governors should be non-partisan and their appointment should be based on merit.
- The Governor should be a bridge between the state and central governments but should avoid interference in the day-to-day administration.
Fostering effective coordination between the Governor and the state government is imperative for the successful functioning of India's federal structure. Transparent appointments, clear delineation of powers and a commitment to non-partisanship can contribute to a harmonious relationship. The Governor should act as a linchpin between the Centre and the state. This would ensure proper functioning of the democracy.