Who can dissolve the Indian state Legislative Assembly before its term ends?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 3: Governor.
Explanation:
According to the Indian Constitution, the power to dissolve the State Legislative Assembly before the completion of its normal tenure (5 years) rests with the Governor.
• Constitutional Provision: Under Article 174(2)(b), the Governor is empowered to dissolve the Legislative Assembly.
• Procedure: The Governor typically exercises this power on the advice of the Council of Ministers headed by the Chief Minister. However, if the Chief Minister loses their majority in the House and no other party is in a position to form the government, the Governor may dissolve the Assembly at their own discretion.
• Tenure: The normal tenure of the Legislative Assembly is 5 years from the date of its first meeting; however, it may be dissolved earlier.
Analysis of Other Options:
• Chief Minister (Option 1): The Chief Minister cannot dissolve the Legislative Assembly on their own; they can only recommend to the Governor that it be dissolved.
• Speaker (Option 2): The Speaker of the Legislative Assembly possesses the power to adjourn the House, but not to dissolve it or prorogue it.
• President (Option 4): The President can impose President's Rule in a state under Article 356, which may result in the suspension or dissolution of the Legislative Assembly; however, within the normal legislative process at the state level, this function is performed by the Governor.
Comparative Facts (Parliament vs. State Legislature):
House | Power to Dissolve | Constitutional Article
Lok Sabha | President | Article 85
Legislative Assembly | Governor | Article 174
Rajya Sabha / Legislative Council | Never Dissolved (Permanent House) | -
Important Questions for Upcoming Examinations:
Question: What is the minimum age required to become a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA)?
Answer: 25 years.
Question: During an Emergency, for how long can the tenure of the Legislative Assembly be extended at one time?
Answer: 1 year.
Question: Which Union Territories have their own Legislative Assemblies?
Answer: Delhi, Puducherry, and Jammu & Kashmir.