Deputy CM More Powerful Than a Cabinet Minister?: The position of Deputy Chief Minister (Deputy CM) is primarily created by state governments to maintain political balance. Deputy CMs are often assigned key ministries, making their role crucial in governance.
Deputy CM More Powerful Than a Cabinet Minister?: After 27 years, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has regained power in Delhi with a clear majority. The government has now been formed, with Rekha Gupta taking oath as the Chief Minister. She has become Delhi’s fourth female CM. Alongside her, six other legislators were sworn in, including Parvesh Verma.
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CM Race and Cabinet Appointments
Parvesh Verma was initially considered a strong contender for the CM post. There were speculations that Rekha Gupta might be given a ministerial position in the cabinet. However, the final decision saw Parvesh Verma taking the oath as a cabinet minister. This raises an important question: What is the significance of the Deputy CM position in the cabinet? Also, does a Deputy CM take a different oath than a cabinet minister?
Is the Deputy CM Position Mentioned in the Constitution?
According to Article 163A of the Indian Constitution, a Council of Ministers, led by the Chief Minister, assists and advises the Governor in discharging their duties. Article 164 outlines the rules for forming the Council of Ministers, stating that the Governor appoints the Chief Minister and other ministers based on the CM’s recommendations. However, there is no specific mention of the Deputy CM post in the Constitution.
How is a Deputy CM Appointed?
Since there is no constitutional provision for the appointment of a Deputy CM, the position is largely symbolic. It is usually created to manage political equations and maintain balance within the party or coalition. The Deputy CM is often the senior-most legislator after the Chief Minister and is given major ministerial responsibilities.
Deputy CM More Powerful Than a Cabinet Minister?
Deputy CM More Powerful Than a Cabinet Minister?: Deputy CMs do not have any powers beyond those of a cabinet minister. Their salary, allowances, and responsibilities are the same as other ministers. Unlike the Chief Minister, they do not receive any special authority. Furthermore, they take the same oath as other ministers and do not have a separate swearing-in ceremony.
