📜 Article 160 of the Indian Constitution
Title: Discharge of the functions of the Governor in certain contingencies
🔹 Text of Article 160:
“The President may make such provision as he thinks fit for the discharge of the functions of the Governor of a State in any contingency not provided for in this Chapter.”
📌 Key Points Explained:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Power Given To | President of India |
| Purpose | To handle unforeseen situations where the Governor is unable to function |
| Examples of Contingency | - Governor falls seriously ill |
- **Resignation accepted** but **no successor appointed yet**
- **Death** of the Governor
- Temporary **absence from the state** |
| What Can President Do | President can appoint another person (e.g., another state’s Governor) to discharge duties temporarily |
🧠Why Article 160 is Important:
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Ensures continuity in governance at the State level.
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Gives flexibility to the President to deal with exceptional or emergency situations.
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Acts as a gap-filler in case other provisions (Articles 153–159) don’t cover the scenario.
📌 Real-Life Example:
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In some cases, the Governor of a neighboring state is given additional charge of a state where the post is vacant or Governor is unable to function.
Here is a summary chart of Articles 153 to 160 of the Indian Constitution related to the Governor of a State. This is ideal for quick revision for exams like UPSC, UKPSC, SSC, or State PCS.
🧾 Articles 153 to 160 – Summary Chart: Governor of a State
| Article | Subject | Key Provisions |
|---|---|---|
| 153 | Governor of a State | There shall be a Governor for each State. One person can be Governor for two or more states. |
| 154 | Executive Power of the State | Vested in the Governor; exercised directly or through subordinate officers. |
| 155 | Appointment of Governor | Appointed by the President of India via warrant under hand and seal. |
| 156 | Term of Office of Governor | Holds office during the pleasure of the President; term is 5 years, can resign or be removed earlier. |
| 157 | Qualifications for Governor | Must be an Indian citizen and at least 35 years old. |
| 158 | Conditions of Governor’s Office | - Cannot be MP/MLA |
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Cannot hold office of profit
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Gets residence, salary, allowances
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Salary not reducible during tenure |
| 159 | Oath or Affirmation | Must take oath before the Chief Justice of the High Court (or senior-most judge) to preserve the Constitution and serve the people. |
| 160 | Contingency in Discharge of Duties | President can make arrangements if Governor is unable to discharge functions due to unforeseen reasons (e.g., illness, vacancy). |
🧠Usefulness:
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Helps understand the constitutional role, powers, and responsibilities of a Governor.
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Crucial for questions in Indian Polity sections of various exams.
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