What is Lieutenant Governor?
Historical Background
Key Points
8 points- 1.
Appointed by the President of India.
- 2.
Acts as the executive head of the Union Territory.
- 3.
Exercises powers and functions as delegated by the President.
- 4.
Has the power to administer the UT, subject to the control of the President.
- 5.
In some UTs like Delhi and Puducherry, the LG has more significant powers, including the power to refer matters to the President in case of a difference of opinion with the elected government.
- 6.
The relationship between the LG and the elected government in UTs like Delhi has been a subject of frequent legal and political debate.
- 7.
The LG is responsible for maintaining law and order in the UT.
- 8.
The LG plays a role in the financial administration of the UT.
Visual Insights
Lieutenant Governor vs. Governor: A Comparison
Comparison table highlighting the key differences between a Lieutenant Governor and a Governor.
| Feature | Lieutenant Governor | Governor |
|---|---|---|
| Appointed by | President of India | President of India |
| Represents | Central Government in UT | President in State |
| Jurisdiction | Union Territory | State |
| Constitutional Articles | Article 239, 239AA | Article 153, 154 |
| Executive Powers | Exercises powers delegated by the President | Exercises executive power of the State |
| Accountability | Accountable to Central Government | Accountable to the President |
Recent Developments
4 developmentsThe role and powers of the LG in Delhi have been subject to several Supreme Court judgments.
The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Act, 2021, further clarified the powers of the LG in Delhi.
Debate continues on the extent of the LG's discretionary powers and the balance between the LG and the elected government.
Appointment of new LGs in various UTs.