In the parliamentary system of government as outlined by the Indian Constitution, the Governor serves as the nominal executive authority (de jure executive), while the Chief Minister functions as the real executive authority (de facto executive). This means that the Governor is the ceremonial head of the state, whereas the Chief Minister is the head of the government, responsible for the day-to-day administration and decision-making.

The Governor’s role, although important, is largely symbolic and involves duties such as summoning the legislature, giving assent to bills, and overseeing the implementation of constitutional provisions. However, the actual governance and executive power are vested in the Chief Minister, who leads the Council of Ministers and makes decisions on policy and administration.

This arrangement is similar to the structure at the national level, where the President of India is the nominal executive authority, and the Prime Minister is the real executive authority. Just as the Prime Minister is the head of the government at the Centre, the Chief Minister holds the same position at the state level, guiding the executive branch and ensuring that the government's policies and programs are implemented effectively.

The relationship between the Chief Minister and the Governor is an essential aspect of the Indian federal system. It reflects the balance between the constitutional and democratic principles that govern the functioning of the state. The Indian Constitution, specifically Article 163, Article 164, and Article 167, outlines the relationship between the Chief Minister and the Governor.

Article 163: Council of Ministers to aid and advise Governor

According to Article 163, the Governor exercises their functions based on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers, headed by the Chief Minister. In other words, the Governor is bound to follow the advice of the Council of Ministers, except in cases where the Constitution explicitly requires the Governor to act in their discretion. This provision ensures the democratic functioning of the state government, with the Chief Minister and the Council of Ministers being accountable to the State Legislature.

Article 164: Other provisions as to Ministers