Question

How did some MLAs become ministers? Explain.

Answer 1

Hint: One of the most dominant features of Indian democracy is the multi-party system which means that there are a large number of parties competing to attain power both at the national and state level. The legislature in states is composed of the State Legislative Assembly (and the State Legislative Council in certain states). In such a system, it is often difficult for a single party to obtain an absolute majority to win the specified number of seats required to form the government. Therefore, political parties cooperate to form a coalition or an alliance of sorts to form the government.

Complete answer: Members are elected to the State Legislative Assembly directly by voting, from amongst the candidates that stand in each respective state constituency. Candidates who win said seats to the Legislative Assembly become Member of Legislative Assembly (or MLA) and hold it for a term of five years. The leader of the party or coalition (a group of parties) with the most seats in the Legislative Assembly becomes the Chief Minister of the state. The state council of ministers are then appointed by the Governor of the state on the advice of the Chief Minister. The Chief Minister decides the size and portfolios of the ministers as per the requirement in the State Legislature. The State Council of ministers headed by the Chief Minister is collectively responsible to the State Legislative Assembly.

Note: Do not confuse ministers here with the Union Cabinet or Council of ministers. This is about the states as MLAs are members of the state legislative assembly.