Who among the following has the power to dissolve the legislative assembly of a state?

Correct option is D

The correct answer is (D) Governor of the State.

Explanation:
The Governor of the State has the constitutional authority to dissolve the legislative assembly under Article 174(2)(b) of the Indian Constitution. The dissolution of the legislative assembly can happen in two ways:

1. On the advice of the Chief Minister when the ruling government loses the majority or recommends early elections.
2. On the Governor's discretion, when no party or coalition is able to form a stable government after an election or a vote of no confidence.

Information Booster:

• Governor's Role in Legislative Dissolution:

  • As per Article 174(2)(b), the Governor has the power to dissolve the legislative assembly when advised by the Chief Minister or when necessary for constitutional governance.
  • The Governor acts as the constitutional head of the state and ensures that governance is conducted as per constitutional principles.
  • If the legislative assembly completes its full term of five years, it is automatically dissolved as per Article 172.

• Important Constitutional Provisions:

  • Article 174: Empowers the Governor to summon, prorogue, and dissolve the State Legislative Assembly.
  • Article 356: If President’s Rule is imposed in a state, the State Legislative Assembly can be dissolved by the President of India, but the formal dissolution is executed by the Governor.

Additional Knowledge:

• Chief Justice of High Court: The Chief Justice of a High Court does not have the power to dissolve the legislative assembly. Their role is judicial, not executive or legislative.
• Chief Minister of the State: The Chief Minister can only recommend dissolution to the Governor, but cannot dissolve the assembly independently.
• Chief Secretary of the State: The Chief Secretary is an administrative officer responsible for governance and does not hold any legislative authority.