Of late, there are lots of debates about the roles of governors in several states across India. For years, this post is meant for retired and pro-ruling party people. Though there are people who discharged their duties with utmost pride, but there are plenty of people who acted on the other side of the coin too. The system introduced back then British Raj is continuing to enjoy federal government powers after Independence too.
Suddenly, the discussion on abolishment of governor posts was triggered by Bihar CM Nitish Kumar in Interstate Council meeting. Joining the bandwagon of Nitish Kumar, the Communist Party of India (CPI) has sought abolition of the post of state governors. He cited the recent example of Arunachal Pradesh where the governor Tathagata Roy accused of acting on behest of BJP government. Mr. Roy exercised his powers and ordered floor test within 48 hours, even after Supreme Court judgement, which ruled against his recommendations.
Not limiting to this single case, in several instances of toppling state government’s governor role won’t be undermined. Chief Ministers of Uttarakhand, Delhi and Karnataka shared on several occasions about their respective governor’s inclination towards central government leadership. Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal locked horns with Najeeb Jung from the moment he took up his office. There is saying in the media that he can’t transfer a police officer on his own capacity because governor won’t accept his recommendations.
ND Tiwari, who served as united Andhra Pradesh governor caught in sex scandal unearthed by a Telugu new channel. There are other instances where governor becomes a mere rubber stamp accepting whatever recommendations come from the state Chief Ministers. In both the cases, the role of governor has apparently dissolved.
Already state governments treating universities and other institutions like their pro party offices by appointing their affiliated people in top posts. If governor post is abolished, there are no check points on statuary filling posts. Therefore a modified rule book which can take care of all the above should be laid down.
