About Governor  

• The Governor is the chief executive head of a state and acts mostly as a nominal (constitutional) head, similar to the President at the national level.  
• Usually, each state has its own Governor, but under the 7th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1956, the same person can be Governor for multiple states.  
• Despite being a nominal head, the Governor holds important executive, legislative, and judicial powers. 

Constitutional Provisions 

• The Governor, along with the Chief Minister, Council of Ministers, and Advocate General, forms the state executive.  
• Articles 153 to 167 in the Constitution explain the Governor’s role. Article 153 mandates a Governor for each state but allows one person to be Governor of more than one state. 

 Appointment: The Governor is appointed by the President of India under Article 155 and is not elected by the people or an electoral college, making the Governor a nominee of the central government. 

 Qualifications: As per Article 157, the Governor must be an Indian citizen and at least 35 years old. 

 Oath: Before assuming office, the Governor takes an oath to perform duties faithfully, protect the Constitution, and serve the state’s people. The oath is administered by the Chief Justice of the High Court.  

Immunities and Privileges: The Governor is immune from criminal proceedings and cannot be arrested or imprisoned during the term. Civil cases require two months’ notice. 

 Term and Removal 

• Serves for 5 years, but holds office at the pleasure of the President. 
• Can resign anytime by writing to the President. 
• The President may transfer or extend the Governor’s term. 
• No specific grounds are needed for removal. 

 Powers and Functions 

• Executive: Appoints Chief Minister, ministers, Advocate General, State Election Commissioner, etc. 
• Legislative: Summons/dissolves legislature, addresses sessions, veto power on bills. 
• Financial: Approves state budget and money bills. 
• Judicial: Grants pardons and advises the President on judge appointments.