ministers; in his individual judgement, where he might consult the
ministers, even though he was not bound to abide by their advice; in
his discretion, where he would act without consulting his ministers.
• The Governor selected his Council of Ministers to aid and advise him
in the discharge of his duties. They were appointed in consultation
with a person who, in his opinion, commanded a majority in the
legislature. They held office during his pleasure.
• But the Governor acted in his individual judgement in the
appointment and dismissal of the Attorney-General of a province.
• Governor’s Special Powers The Governor’s special powers and
responsibilities comprised: (i) prevention of any grave menace to the
peace and tranquillity of the province; (ii) safeguarding the legitimate
interests of minorities; (iii) securing the legal and equitable rights and
safeguarding the legitimate interests of the public services; (iv)
prevention of discrimination against British subjects domiciled in the
UK or companies incorporated in that country; (v) securing the peace
and good government of the partially excluded areas; (vi ) protection
of rights of any Indian State and the rights and dignity of its Ruler;
(vii) securing the execution of orders or directions issued by the
Governor General in his discretion.
Governor’s Financial Powers The entire executive authority of the
province was vested in the Governor, who had special powers in the financial
field.
• A finance bill could only be introduced on the recommendation of the
Governor.
• He directed an annual financial statement, i.e., budget, to be laid
before the legislature in two parts: (i) sums charged on the revenues
of the province; and (ii) sums required to meet other expenses
proposed to be incurred from the revenues of the province.
• The Governor could, in his discretion, decide whether or not an item
was a charged item which, in turn, made it non-votable. The
legislature could accept, refuse to accept or accept with reduction of
expenditure all items except the charged items. However, it had no
power of enhancement.
• In case of refusal to grant the sums asked for, or their reduction, the