Know what happens after a CM resigns; What is a caretaker Govt ?
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, February 09 2025: 21 months and 7 days (649 days) into the conflict in Manipur since May 3, 2023, Chief Minister N Biren Singh has resigned.

His resignation has been accepted by the Governor and he has stepped down as the Chief Minister.

These are events that usually follow when a Chief Minister resigns--

Resignation Submission: The Chief Minister submits his resignation to the Governor of the State--for various reasons, such as losing majority support in the State Legislative Assembly, internal party conflicts, personal reasons, or moral responsibility after a significant failure or scandal.

Know what happens after a CM resigns

Governor's Role : The Governor accepts the resignation and may ask the outgoing Chief Minister to continue as a Caretaker until a new Government is formed.

The Governor then explores options to form a new Government:

-If the ruling party or coalition has a clear majority, the Governor invites the leader of that party/coalition to form the new Government.

-If no party has a clear majority, the Governor may invite the single largest party or a coalition to attempt to prove majority support in the Assembly.

-If no stable Government can be formed, the Governor may recommend President's Rule (Central rule) under Article 356 of the Indian Constitution.

Floor Test: If a new CM is appointed, they must prove their majority in the State Legislative Assembly through a floor test within a stipulated time.

This involves a Vote of Confidence to demonstrate that they have the support of the majority of the members.

President's Rule: If no Government can be formed, the State Assembly may be suspended (suspended animation) or dissolved, and the State comes under direct Central administration. Fresh elections are usually held within six months.

What is a Caretaker Government?

This is a temporary administration that manages the day-to-day affairs of the State that occurs during transitions, such as after the dissolution of a Legislative Assembly, resignation of a Chief Minister, or during elections.

-The Caretaker Government is not a full-fledged Government and operates only until a new Government is sworn in.

-It is usually headed by the outgoing Chief Minister until a successor is appointed.

-It has limited powers.

The Caretaker Government avoids making major policy decisions, signing new agreements, or taking actions that could bind the incoming Government.

-It focuses only on routine administrative functions and essential duties to ensure the smooth functioning of the State.

-No major appointments or decisions are taken by the Caretaker Government.

It avoids making significant appointments, policy changes, or financial commitments unless absolutely necessary.

-It can't announce new schemes, sign international treaties, or make major Budgetary decisions.

-If the Caretaker Government is in place during elections, it ensures that the election process is conducted fairly and without interference.

Accountability: The Caretaker Government remains accountable to the Constitution and the judiciary for its actions.