Question

Who appoints the governors of Indian states?
1. Vice President
2. President
3. Prime Minister
4. Central Cabinet

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 2 : President

The correct answer is The President.

Appointment of Governor

• The Governor in India is neither directly elected by the people nor indirectly elected by an electoral college as in case of the President of India.
• He is appointed by the President by warrant under President's hand and seal.
• Thus Governor is considered a nominee of the Central government.
• But, in 1979 Supreme Court held that the office of Governor of a state is not an employment under the Central government but an independent constitutional office, hence is not under the control of or subordinate to the Central government.

• Governor is the Executive head of the state.
• The governor acts as the nominal head whereas the real power lies with the Chief Minister of the states and his/her councils of ministers.
• The governor is appointed by the president for a term of five years.
• Article 157 and Article 158 of the Constitution of India specify eligibility requirements for the post of governor, which are -
• A governor must:
  • be a citizen of India.
  • be at least 35 years of age.
  • not be a member of either house of the parliament or the house of the state legislature.
  • not hold any office of profit.