Functions and Relations of the Chief Minister and the Governor of a State

**1. Chief Minister’s Functions:

• Executive Leadership: The Chief Minister (CM) is the head of the state government and is responsible for running the executive branch, formulating policies, and implementing laws.
• Cabinet Formation: The CM appoints ministers, forms the state cabinet, and oversees the administration. For example, Mamata Banerjee in West Bengal has shaped state policies and administration since 2011.
• Legislative Role: The CM leads the majority party in the state legislature and plays a key role in legislative business.

**2. Governor’s Functions:

• Ceremonial Head: The Governor acts as the ceremonial head of the state, representing the President of India.
• Appointment Powers: The Governor appoints the CM and, on their advice, other ministers. For instance, Governor Arif Mohammad Khan of Kerala appointed the CM in 2019 following elections.
• Emergency Powers: The Governor can recommend the dissolution of the state assembly or impose President’s Rule in case of a breakdown of governance.

**3. Relations Between Chief Minister and Governor:

• Constitutional Relationship: The relationship is often guided by the principles of the Constitution, with the Governor ensuring that the state administration operates within constitutional bounds.
• Conflict and Cooperation: While the CM manages day-to-day affairs, the Governor’s role is more supervisory. Tensions may arise, as seen in recent disputes over the appointment of vice-chancellors in some states.