Understanding the Governor's Term of Office in India

The question asks about the specific article in the Indian Constitution that deals with the term of office for the Governor of a State.

Let's examine the relevant articles:

• Article 156: This article directly addresses the term of office of the Governor. It states that the Governor shall hold office during the pleasure of the President. Subject to this provision, the Governor shall hold office for a term of five years from the date on which he enters upon his office. A Governor may, however, resign his office by writing under his hand addressed to the President.
• Article 161: This article relates to the power of the Governor to grant pardons, reprieves, respites or remissions of punishment or to suspend, remit or commute the sentence of any person convicted of any offence against any law relating to a matter to which the executive power of the State extends.
• Article 165: This article deals with the Advocate-General for the State. It outlines their appointment, duties, and tenure.
• Article 152: This article is found in Part VI of the Constitution, which deals with the States. Article 152 defines the term "State" for the purpose of this part, stating that unless the context otherwise requires, the expression "State" does not include the State of Jammu and Kashmir (at the time the constitution was enacted, subsequent changes have occurred).

Based on the examination of these articles, Article 156 is the one specifically related to the term of office of the Governor.

Therefore, the correct article is 156.

Revision Table: Key Articles Related to Governor

Additional Information on Governor's Tenure

While Article 156 specifies a normal term of five years for the Governor, it is crucial to understand that the Governor holds office "during the pleasure of the President". This means the President can remove a Governor at any time, even before the completion of their five-year term, without stating any reason. This provision highlights the link between the Union government (represented by the President) and the state executive (represented by the Governor).

A Governor continues in office even after the expiry of their five-year term until their successor enters upon their office. This ensures there is no vacuum in the constitutional position.