In which situation can the Governor of a State exercise discretionary powers?
- Appointing the Chief Minister when no party has clear majority
- Dissolving the State Assembly on advice of Council of Ministers
- Assenting to a Bill passed by State Legislature
- All of the above
Answer: Appointing the Chief Minister when no party has clear majority
The Governor's discretionary powers (not bound by Council of Ministers' advice) include: (1) Appointing CM when no party has clear majority, (2) Dismissing a ministry that loses majority but refuses to resign, (3) Dissolving Assembly if ministry loses majority, (4) Reserving a Bill for President's consideration. Options B and C are normally done on ministerial advice.