changing role of governor in india since 1989

Abstract

newlineThe Constitution of India is based on the principle of federalism with a strong and indestructible Centre. The nature of the Indian executive is parliamentary both at the Centre and the States. The office of Governor in the Indian political system is not an innovation of free India rather its roots could be traced to the erstwhile colonial era of the British rule. The evolution of this institution could be traced out in the famous Charter of December, 1600 when Queen Elizabeth (1558-1603) granted trading powers to the East India Company. The office of Governor was created to administer the affairs of East India Company, under the supervision of Board of Directors in England. Gradually they gained territorial settlements in India. Governors and Governor-General at Fort Williams were the pillars of administration even under the rule of Crown in India. Right from the Regulating Act of 1773 to the Indian Independence Act, 1947 their position and role had been defined by the Acts enacted by the British Parliament. The Governors enjoyed real powers and in most cases they behaved like despots. newlineThey acted in a partisan manner and interfered in the day to day administration of the popular governments. With the end of British rule in India and with the adoption of new Constitution of India, the position of the office of the Governor has altogether changed. After attaining independence, the Governor of a State is the key functionary in the system envisaged by the Constitution. He is a vital link between the Centre and the State. The Governor plays a dual role under the Indian Constitution. He acts as the constitutional head of the State and performs his functions on the advice of the Council of Ministers. He also serves as an agent of the Central Government. The Indian constitution imposes a duty on the Centre to protect the States against disturbances and to ensure that every State Government is carried on in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of India. newline