The Role of the Governor in State Politics in India: Focus on Bihar

The position of the Governor in India, particularly in states like Bihar, is often a subject of debate. While the Governor is meant to be a constitutional head of the state, his role and influence in state politics can sometimes blur the line between ceremonial duties and active political involvement. This raises the question: Is the Governor merely a puppet, or does he have real power?

1. Constitutional Role of the Governor

Under the Indian Constitution, the Governor acts as the representative of the President of India in the states. His role is largely ceremonial, with executive, legislative, and judicial powers defined by the Constitution.

• Executive Powers: The Governor appoints the Chief Minister and other ministers, who are required to hold office as long as they enjoy the confidence of the state legislature (Article 164).
• Legislative Powers: The Governor can summon or dissolve the state legislature, assent to bills, and can also promulgate ordinances when the legislature is not in session (Article 213).
• Judicial Powers: The Governor has the power to grant pardons, reprieves, respites, and remissions of punishment, or to suspend, remit, or commute sentences in certain cases (Article 161).

2. Governor’s Influence in Bihar’s Politics

In states like Bihar, the Governor’s role has often been contested. The relationship between the state government and the Governor has sometimes been tense, with the Governor accused of acting beyond the bounds of his constitutional powers. For example:

• Political Appointment of the Chief Minister: The Governor is responsible for appointing the Chief Minister. However, this power has been controversial in instances where the Governor delays the swearing-in of the Chief Minister, as seen in Bihar in the past, creating a political standoff. This was seen in 2015 when Governor Keshari Nath Tripathi took time in deciding whom to invite to form the government, despite the fact that Nitish Kumar had the majority.
• Dissolution of the State Assembly: Governors have occasionally been accused of using their powers to dissolve the state assembly prematurely. In Bihar, this has been seen in instances where the Governor’s action, such as not providing assent to bills passed by the assembly, has raised questions about impartiality.

3. Is the Governor a Mere Puppet

While the Governor has substantial powers as per the Constitution, his actions are often influenced by political considerations, especially at the state level. Critics argue that in some cases, the Governor may act under the influence of the central government, especially when the ruling party at the Centre is different from the ruling party in the state.

• Central Influence: The Governor is appointed by the President on the advice of the central government, which means the Governor’s actions are often aligned with the party in power at the national level. This was evident in Bihar during various political crises, where the central government’s interests sometimes influenced the Governor’s decisions.
• Puppet or Mediator: Some see the Governor as a puppet in the hands of the central government, especially when his decisions seem to align with political expediencies rather than constitutional duties. For example, during times of political instability in Bihar, the Governor’s role in forming the government or dissolving the assembly has raised eyebrows about his impartiality.

4. Case Study: Bihar’s Political Landscape

Bihar provides an illustrative case where the Governor’s role has been under scrutiny. Several instances in recent history demonstrate the tension between the state government and the Governor:

• 2017 Political Crisis: When Nitish Kumar resigned as Chief Minister in 2017 and later re-formed a government with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Governor’s role in accepting or rejecting the change was heavily scrutinized. Many accused the Governor of acting as a puppet in the hands of the central government rather than exercising independent judgment.
• Appointment of Governors: In Bihar, as in other states, the appointment of the Governor has often been a point of contention. Political parties have occasionally viewed the Governor as a political tool, especially when decisions seem to favor the ruling party at the Centre.

5. Conclusion: A Balance Between Constitutional Role and Political Influence

While the Governor’s role is largely ceremonial, his actions can significantly influence state politics, especially during times of political uncertainty. In states like Bihar, the Governor’s position is often more than just a puppet; he can act as a mediator in resolving conflicts. However, due to the political context and the Governor’s appointment by the central government, his role can sometimes seem compromised, raising questions about his impartiality.

The Governor should ideally maintain a balance between his constitutional duties and the political realities of the state. When this balance is disrupted, it can lead to tensions and criticisms of the Governor as merely a tool in the hands of political forces, rather than an impartial guardian of the Constitution.

The Indian Constitution’s Preamble declares India as a “socialist, secular, democratic republic.” These principles are not just ideals but are reinforced through various constitutional provisions. Let’s break down each of these terms and the corresponding provisions that ensure their enforcement:

1. Socialist

• Definition: Socialism in the Indian context refers to the idea of social and economic justice. It emphasizes the equitable distribution of wealth and the reduction of social and economic inequalities.
• Constitutional Provisions:
  • Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP): Articles 38, 39, and 41 of the Constitution promote the welfare of the people by aiming to minimize inequalities in income and resources. For example, Article 38 instructs the state to “strive to promote the welfare of the people” by securing a just social order.
  • Nationalization: The state has the power to nationalize industries and resources for public welfare, which is in line with the socialist model. The nationalization of sectors like banking, coal, and steel in the 1950s and 1960s was an attempt to promote economic equality.

2. Secular

• Definition: A secular state does not endorse any religion and ensures equal treatment of all religions.
• Constitutional Provisions:
  • Freedom of Religion: Articles 25 to 28 guarantee individuals the freedom to practice, propagate, and profess any religion, subject to public order, morality, and health.
  • Non-discrimination on Religious Grounds: Article 15 prohibits discrimination on the grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
  • Secularism in Practice: The government does not favor any particular religion, and religious institutions cannot hold political power. This is exemplified by the state’s support for religious minorities through measures like the Minority Welfare Ministry.

3. Democratic

• Definition: A democratic state means that the people have the power to elect their representatives and influence governance through free and fair elections.
• Constitutional Provisions:
  • Universal Adult Franchise: Article 326 grants all citizens, irrespective of gender, caste, or religion, the right to vote and participate in elections. This ensures that the government is elected by the people and for the people.
  • Rule of Law: Articles 14 to 18 ensure that no individual or group is above the law, and that all people are treated equally before the law, reinforcing the democratic structure.
  • Free and Fair Elections: The Constitution provides for a system where elections to the Parliament and State Legislative Assemblies are held regularly to ensure that power remains with the people.

4. Republic

• Definition: A republic means that the head of state is elected and not a hereditary monarch.
• Constitutional Provisions:
  • Elected Head of State: Article 52 provides for the election of the President of India, who is the ceremonial head of state. This ensures that India remains a republic, with the president being elected indirectly by the people’s representatives in the electoral college.
  • Sovereignty: The President, elected every five years, represents the sovereignty of the people, ensuring that the country does not have a monarch or a hereditary ruler.

Conclusion

India’s Constitution incorporates several provisions to enforce the ideals of being a socialist, secular, democratic republic. These provisions ensure social justice, equality, and the protection of individual freedoms while promoting a political system that is inclusive and representative of the people’s will. By ensuring the equal treatment of all religions, the reduction of economic inequalities, and the promotion of democratic governance, the Constitution aims to create a just society in which every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.

India’s invitation as a Guest of Honour to the 46th session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Foreign Ministers’ Meet in 2019 marked a significant shift in geopolitical dynamics, particularly in terms of India’s relations with the Islamic world. This invitation was a pivotal moment in India’s diplomatic history, signaling growing recognition of its geopolitical importance and the evolving nature of its ties with the Gulf nations, especially the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Key Points of the Invitation

• Historical Significance: The OIC, established in 1969, had historically excluded India due to pressure from Pakistan, especially on the Kashmir issue. India had been snubbed at an OIC summit in 1969, when Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, an Indian minister, was disinvited at Pakistan’s insistence​​.
• A Shift in UAE’s Stance: The UAE’s invitation in 2019 marked the first time India was invited to the OIC Foreign Ministers’ Meet, underscoring the UAE’s growing strategic relationship with India​. This move was seen as a correction of a “historic wrong” and was significant for enhancing India’s diplomatic stature in the Islamic world.

Geopolitical Dynamics and India’s Growing Influence

• India’s Increasing Clout: The invitation reflects India’s rising global influence, its robust economy, and its role as a strategic partner in the region. The UAE recognized India’s importance not only for its political and economic strength but also for its substantial Muslim population, which contributes to the pluralistic and diverse fabric of the country​.
• Strategic Relations with the Gulf: Over the past few years, India has cultivated strong economic, security, and cultural ties with the UAE and other Gulf countries. This has included significant cooperation in areas like trade, defense, and energy. The OIC invitation is a recognition of India’s central role in regional stability and development​.

Implications for India’s Foreign Policy

• Strengthening Bilateral Ties: The invitation was a diplomatic victory for India, which sought to deepen its ties with Gulf nations, moving beyond the historical baggage of Kashmir. It marked a shift towards focusing on areas of mutual interest, such as counterterrorism cooperation, economic growth, and energy security​.
• Broader Diplomatic Influence: This engagement opened new opportunities for India to present its views on regional and global issues at the OIC platform. It also allowed India to underline its policy of peaceful coexistence, its commitment to regional stability, and the importance of multilateral dialogue.

Conclusion

India’s inclusion in the OIC Foreign Ministers’ Meet as a Guest of Honour represents a new phase in its diplomatic efforts to strengthen relations with the Islamic world, particularly the Gulf states. It highlights a significant shift in regional geopolitics where strategic interests are increasingly outweighing historical conflicts. The UAE’s gesture marks the beginning of a new diplomatic era for India in the Middle East and the broader Islamic world, showcasing its growing global stature and commitment to multilateralism.

India maintains an open-door policy for the free movement of people between itself, Nepal, and Bhutan. This policy is rooted in historical, political, cultural, and economic ties that foster deep integration and cooperation among the nations. The open-border arrangement allows citizens of these countries to travel freely without passports or visas. Here’s a breakdown of why this policy exists and its significance.

Historical and Cultural Ties

1. Historical Relationship

• India, Nepal, and Bhutan share historical, cultural, and geographical ties that go back centuries. The people of these countries share similar traditions, languages, and cultural practices, which has created a unique bond. For example, the shared reverence for Hinduism and Buddhism, which plays a significant role in the culture of all three countries, strengthens their ties.
• The free movement agreement was formally established in the 1950 Indo-Nepal Treaty and has continued to foster a deep sense of unity and cooperation between India, Nepal, and Bhutan.

2. Geographical Proximity

• The three countries are located in close proximity, with Nepal and Bhutan sharing borders with India. The movement of people across borders, whether for work, education, or family, is facilitated by their geographical closeness, making it more practical to maintain an open-door policy.

Political and Economic Factors

1. Strengthening Regional Cooperation

• India’s Neighborhood First Policy aims to build stronger relationships with its neighboring countries. The open-door policy with Nepal and Bhutan is an essential part of this strategy. It helps in strengthening diplomatic ties, regional security, and economic integration within the South Asian region.
• By encouraging easy movement, India fosters greater cooperation on regional issues, including trade, security, and cultural exchange. Nepal and Bhutan benefit from Indian resources and expertise, and India benefits from greater regional stability and economic integration.

2. Economic Integration

• Many citizens of Nepal and Bhutan work in India, contributing significantly to both economies. Indian industries benefit from Nepali labor, particularly in sectors like agriculture, construction, and hospitality, while Bhutanese workers contribute to hydroelectric power plants and other projects.
• On the flip side, Nepal and Bhutan enjoy the benefits of Indian market access for their agricultural and industrial products. By allowing free movement, these countries can participate more effectively in the regional economy.

Example: Many Nepali citizens live and work in cities like Delhi and Mumbai, where they contribute to both the labor market and cultural diversity.

Security and Strategic Considerations

1. Maintaining Regional Stability

• The open-door policy promotes regional security and stability. The close relationship between the three nations ensures mutual trust and cooperation, making it easier to address common security challenges, including issues related to border control, counter-terrorism, and natural disasters.
• India’s open-door policy allows Nepal and Bhutan to engage in security arrangements that support India’s broader strategic interests in the region, particularly in countering Chinese influence in neighboring Tibet.

2. Free Movement of People as a Strength

• The free movement agreement enhances people-to-people contact, fostering shared security interests and building closer relationships between the countries. A major strength of the open-door policy is that it enables collaborative action on challenges such as cross-border terrorism and climate change.

Socio-cultural and Educational Exchange

1. Cultural Integration

• The open-border policy allows for seamless cultural exchange between India, Nepal, and Bhutan. People from these countries can visit each other, engage in festivals, events, and cultural practices, strengthening the bonds of friendship and mutual respect.
• The shared cultural heritage of these countries is a powerful tool for strengthening ties. India, with its rich cultural diversity, has a significant influence on Bhutanese and Nepali culture, and vice versa.

2. Educational and Employment Opportunities

• Students from Nepal and Bhutan often travel to India to pursue education, particularly in higher education and professional courses, benefiting from India’s affordable educational infrastructure. Likewise, Indian students also benefit from academic exchanges in Nepal and Bhutan.
• The free movement also provides employment opportunities for people in rural areas, where migration to nearby Indian cities is common for livelihood.

Conclusion

India’s open-door policy with Nepal and Bhutan fosters cultural, political, and economic cooperation, allowing for the free movement of people across borders. This policy strengthens regional ties, promotes economic integration, and enhances security cooperation. While there are challenges in managing open borders, the benefits of close collaboration among these countries far outweigh them, contributing to a peaceful and prosperous region.

The United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) emphasizes a multidimensional approach to well-being, focusing on various social, economic, and environmental factors. The network’s framework for well-being highlights several key variables that contribute to a person’s and society’s overall health, prosperity, and sustainable development.

Key Variables Supporting Well-being

1. Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3)

• Universal Health Coverage (UHC):
  • Access to affordable healthcare is a critical pillar for well-being. The UN stresses the importance of ensuring that everyone, regardless of income or location, has access to essential health services.
  • For example, countries with comprehensive healthcare systems, such as Norway and Canada, show better health outcomes for their citizens.
• Mental Health:
  • Mental health is as important as physical health. The increasing recognition of mental health issues has led to global initiatives to reduce the stigma and provide adequate services.

Example: The World Health Organization (WHO) advocates for mental health services integrated into primary health systems, acknowledging that the mental well-being of individuals is crucial to overall happiness.

2. Education

• Access to Quality Education (SDG 4):
  • Education is directly linked to well-being as it empowers individuals to make informed choices, improving life satisfaction and economic mobility.
  • For instance, Finland’s education system is often cited for its focus on both academic knowledge and emotional well-being, which results in better life outcomes for students.
• Lifelong Learning:
  • Ensuring opportunities for lifelong learning and skills development promotes economic stability and personal growth, which are important components of well-being.

3. Economic Stability

• Income Equality and Poverty Reduction (SDG 1):
  • Economic stability, with reduced income inequality, plays a significant role in enhancing well-being. The SDSN emphasizes the importance of achieving decent work and fair wages, which contribute to reducing poverty and increasing social mobility.
• Employment Opportunities:
  • Access to secure employment allows individuals to achieve financial independence and improve quality of life.

Example: Countries like Denmark and Sweden focus on reducing inequality through progressive tax systems, strong social safety nets, and universal access to healthcare and education.

4. Environmental Sustainability

• Climate Action (SDG 13):
  • A healthy environment is fundamental for sustaining human well-being. The UN promotes reducing environmental degradation, improving air quality, and addressing climate change to protect human health.
• Access to Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6):
  • Clean water, sanitation, and pollution control are essential to preventing diseases and enhancing quality of life.

Example: Iceland, with its focus on clean energy and environmental protection, leads by example in creating a sustainable environment that supports public health and well-being.

5. Social Inclusion and Equality

• Gender Equality (SDG 5):
  • Ensuring gender equality by addressing discrimination and empowering women contributes significantly to well-being. Equal access to resources and opportunities is crucial for building a fair and prosperous society.
• Social Protection:
  • Access to social protection systems (such as pensions, unemployment benefits, and disability support) promotes well-being by reducing vulnerabilities and enhancing economic security.

Example: In countries with strong social protection systems, like Germany, citizens experience a higher sense of security and well-being.

Analysis Beyond Income, Averages, and Present Conditions

The SDSN’s approach to well-being goes beyond income and material wealth, acknowledging the complexity of human flourishing:

1. Holistic Well-being:
   • Beyond GDP: The SDSN emphasizes that well-being is more than just economic output, as it includes factors such as health, education, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability. For instance, Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness (GNH) Index evaluates well-being through happiness rather than just financial success.
2. Intergenerational Perspective:
   • The SDSN stresses the importance of considering the long-term impact of present actions on future generations. For example, the effects of climate change and environmental degradation today will affect future generations’ health and opportunities.
3. Cultural and Social Factors:
   • Well-being is also shaped by social networks, cultural values, and community involvement. Countries with strong social cohesion, such as Japan, demonstrate that a sense of belonging and social participation contribute significantly to overall life satisfaction.

Conclusion

The UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) highlights a broad and multidimensional approach to well-being, focusing on health, education, economic stability, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion. By integrating these diverse variables, the SDSN provides a more comprehensive understanding of well-being, moving beyond simple economic indicators like income or GDP.