THE GOVERNOR

NEWS: Controversies around the customary address have added theatrics to the ongoing tussle between governors and state governments over issues such as assent to bills and appointment of university vice-chancellors

Powers of the Governor:

• The Governor is constitutionally required to address the House but cannot alter, omit, or rewrite the speech prepared by the elected government
• The Governor cannot unilaterally summon or delay sessions contrary to Cabinet advice
• The Address reflects the Council of Ministers’ agenda, reaffirming democratic accountability.

Articles involved:

• Article 163: Governor acts on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers, except in constitutionally specified discretionary matters.
• Article 174: Power to summon, prorogue and dissolve the State Legislature (to be exercised on Cabinet advice).
• Article 175: Governor may address or send messages to the House.
• Article 176: At the commencement of the first session after each general election to the Legislative Assembly and at the commencement of the first session of each year, the Governor shall address the Legislative Assembly or, in the case of a State having a Legislative Council, both Houses assembled together and inform the Legislature of the causes of its summons.