Q1. Who is the nominal executive at the state level in the parliamentary system of government?
- Chief Minister
- Governor
- Prime Minister
- President
Correct Option: 2. Governor
Explanation: In the parliamentary system of government, the Governor is the nominal executive (de jure executive), meaning they hold the title of head of state, while the Chief Minister is the real executive (de facto executive), meaning they hold the real authority in the functioning of the state government.
Similarly, at central level, The President is the nominal executive and the Prime minister is the real executive.
Q2. What is the primary condition for the appointment of a Chief Minister in the state?
- The Chief Minister must be a member of the Upper House.
- The Governor must consult the Prime Minister.
- The Governor must appoint the leader of the majority party in the State Legislative Assembly.
- The Chief Minister must be directly elected by the people.
Correct Option: 3. The Governor must appoint the leader of the majority party in the State Legislative Assembly.
Explanation: As per constitutional conventions, the Governor appoints the leader of the majority party in the State Legislative Assembly as the Chief Minister. If there is no clear majority, the Governor may exercise discretion and appoint the leader of the largest party or coalition.
Q3. What happens if a person who is appointed Chief Minister is not a member of the state legislature?
- The Governor must dissolve the legislature.
- The person must be elected to the state legislature within 6 months.
- The person will be dismissed from office.
- The Chief Minister can remain in office indefinitely.
Correct Option: 2. The person must be elected to the state legislature within 6 months..
Explanation: According to the Constitution, if a person is appointed as Chief Minister but is not a member of the state legislature, they must be elected to the legislature within 6 months. If this does not happen, they cease to be the Chief Minister.
Q4. Who administers the oaths of office to the Chief Minister?
- The Governor
- The President of India
- The Speaker of the Legislative Assembly
- The Prime Minister
Correct Option: 1. The Governor
Explanation: Before assuming office, the Governor administers the oaths of office and secrecy to the Chief Minister. The Chief Minister swears allegiance to the Constitution and promises to carry out their duties without fear, favour, or prejudice.
Q5. Which of the following is true about the term of a Chief Minister?
- The term is fixed for five years.
- The Chief Minister holds office during the pleasure of the Governor.
- The Chief Minister is elected for a life term.
- The Chief Minister’s term can be extended by the President.
Correct Option: 2. The Chief Minister holds office during the pleasure of the Governor.
Explanation: The term of a Chief Minister is not fixed. The Chief Minister holds office at the pleasure of the Governor, but this does not mean the Governor can dismiss the Chief Minister at will. The Governor can only dismiss the CM if they lose the confidence of the Legislative Assembly.