Responsibilities & Special Powers Of The Governor General In Govt Of India Act 1935
Under certain provisions of the India 1935 Act, the Governor General was authorized to act in his discretion and under certain other provisions; he could exercise his individual judgment. He was vested with the final political authority in the country; and was given widest discretionary powers and special responsibilities. These functions and powers were defined by the Act as his special responsibilities. In Govt of India Act 1935 the discretionary powers and responsibilities of Governor General are as follows:
- Under Govt. Act of India 1935, he was in charge of the Reserve Departments of Defence, Foreign Affairs, Ecclesiastical Affairs and Tribal Areas and he appoint three councilors to assist him in his work.
- He could appoint and dismiss the Council of Ministers and also could preside over their meetings. They would hold office during his pleasure. Their consultation and advice was not binding upon him.
- He could issue two kinds of ordinances. One type of ordinance he could issue at any time and that lasted for 6 months. The other kind of ordinance would be issued when the legislature was not in session.
- The Governor General was also given the power to issue what were known as Governor General Act. But these had to be forwarded to the Secretary of State.
- The previous of Governor General was required for the introduction of certain bills in the Federal Legislature and the Provincial Legislatures: He was authorized to stop discussion on any bill at any time by the legislature. He could withhold his assent to a bill passed by the Legislature or send the same back for the consideration of His Majesty.
- He was given control over 80% of the Federal budget; the non-vote able items of the budget formed a major part of the budget.
- The Governor General could in his discretion send any instructions to the Governors and it was the special responsibility of the later to carry them out.
- Governor General could suspend the Constitution.
- In Govt of India Act 1935 Governor General was given the authority to summon, prorogue and dissolve the Federal Assembly lie could summon both the houses for joint sitting. He could address the Legislatures and could send messages regarding certain bills.