Q. Consider the following statements regarding the appointment of the Chief Minister in Indian states:
Statement I: The Governor may appoint a person as Chief Minister even if they are not a member of the state legislature, provided the person gets elected to either House within six months.
Statement II: The Governor has absolute discretion in appointing the Chief Minister, even when a single party secures a clear majority in the legislative assembly.
Which one of the following is correct?
Answer: C
Notes:
Explanation:
- A non-legislator can be appointed as CM but must get elected to the legislature within six months.
- The Governor must appoint the leader of the majority party as CM when a clear majority exists; discretion is allowed only in the absence of a clear majority.
Source: Laxmikant (Polity)

