Summary
• Context: The controversy relates to the Governor’s customary address to the State Legislature, which is constitutionally meant to present the elected government’s policies, not the Governor’s personal views.
Constitutional Basis
• Article 176: The Governor addresses the State Legislative Assembly (and Council, if any) at the commencement of the first session each year and after general elections.
• Article 87 (for comparison): Similar provision for the President’s address to Parliament.
Nature of the Address
• It is prepared by the State Cabinet.
• The Governor is bound to read the Cabinet-approved text.
• Any deviation violates the principle of responsible government.
