Part VI - The States • Article

Article 155 Simplified: Appointment of Governor

Article 155 states that the Governor of a State is appointed directly by the President of India. The President issues a formal order called a 'warrant under his hand and seal' to make this appointment. This ensures the Governor acts as a constitutional link between the Central Government and the State Government.

Official Text

The Governor of a State shall be appointed by the President by warrant under his hand and seal.

Simple Meaning

Explain Like Ten

A Governor is not elected by the people. Instead, the President of India chooses and appoints them with a signed and stamped letter called a warrant.

Student Mode

Provides that the Governor of a State is appointed by the President by warrant under hand and seal. The Constituent Assembly debated whether Governors should be directly elected. They chose appointment instead to maintain Central oversight, avoid conflicts between an elected Governor and an elected Chief Minister, and preserve the parliamentary system's stability.

Example

When a new Governor is selected to head a state like Maharashtra or West Bengal, the President signs a formal warrant of appointment, which is then read out in a public ceremony at the state capital's Raj Bhavan.

Key Takeaway

The Governor is appointed by the President, making the office a vital constitutional bridge between the Union and the States.

FAQs

Why isn't the Governor of a state directly elected by the people?

An elected Governor might clash with the elected Chief Minister, claiming a competing democratic mandate. Appointment ensures the Governor acts as an impartial constitutional referee and central coordinator.

Does the state government have a say in the Governor's appointment?

Constitutionally, no. However, by convention (recommended by the Sarkaria Commission), the Central Government should consult the state's Chief Minister before appointing a Governor, though this convention is frequently bypassed.

Quiz

How is a Governor appointed under Article 155?

Answer: Appointed by the President of India by warrant

What was the main reason the Constituent Assembly chose an appointed Governor over an elected one?

Answer: To prevent political friction between the Governor and the Chief Minister