Constitutional Position of the Governor
Articles 153-162
The Governor is the constitutional head of a state, appointed by the President under Article 155 and holding office during the President's pleasure under Article 156. The Constitution does not specify grounds for removal, making the Governor's tenure entirely dependent on the Centre's discretion -- a feature that has generated significant constitutional debate.
- Article 153: There shall be a Governor for each State. Proviso (7th Amendment, 1956): The same person can be appointed Governor of two or more states.
- Article 155: The Governor of a State shall be appointed by the President by warrant under his hand and seal.
- Article 156(1): The Governor shall hold office during the pleasure of the President.
- Article 156(3): Term of five years, subject to the pleasure of the President.
- Article 157: Qualifications -- must be a citizen of India and have completed 35 years of age.
- Article 158: Governor shall not be a member of either House of Parliament or State Legislature, shall not hold any office of profit.
- Article 159: Oath of office -- to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution and the law.
- Article 161: Power to grant pardons -- Governor can pardon, reprieve, respite, or remit punishment for offences against state laws.
- Article 163: Council of Ministers to aid and advise the Governor, except where the Constitution requires the Governor to exercise discretion.
● Tracked since March 05, 2026 · last seen April 02, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
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