Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu named Jana Sena Party chief Pawan Kalyan as deputy Chief Minister. 

The actor-turned-politician has been allotted Panchayat Raj and Rural Development, Environment, Forests, and Science and Technology portfolios.

What is the significance of deputy CM post?

• The appointment of a deputy Chief Minister typically signifies a political compromise. 

• This often occurs following the formation of a coalition government, or when no single leader has undisputed authority within the ruling party or across all major interest groups in the state.

• In fact, this practice is gaining prominence. Many states now have deputy Chief Ministers.

• The deputy Chief Minister post is political, not constitutional, unlike the Vice President of India.

• This position originated from the deputy Prime Minister role established post-independence in 1947, which led to the evolution of deputy CM roles in states.

• Appointment and Tenure: Deputy CMs are appointed and dismissed at the discretion of the Chief Minister, who can appoint multiple deputy CMs.

• Historical Context: Anugrah Narayan Sinha of Bihar was the first Deputy CM post-Independence. 

Powers and Responsibilities

• Rank and Pay: Deputy CMs have a rank equivalent to cabinet ministers and receive similar pay and perks.

• Portfolio Allocation: They are assigned portfolios, usually smaller in scale compared to those of the Chief Minister.

• Financial Powers: Deputy CMs lack specific financial authority and must seek approval from the Chief Minister for expenditures exceeding their allocated budgets.

• Administrative Role: They aid in governance and administration, acting as a liaison between the ruling party and its allies.

Why are deputy CMs given prominence?

• Political Stability and Strength: This role is used to enhance political stability and reinforce the strength of a coalition government. It also serves as a reward for loyal and influential leaders within the ruling party or alliance.

• Support Role: The deputy CM assists the Chief Minister in the administration and governance of the state.

• Bridge Role: In some instances, the deputy CM acts as a bridge between the ruling party and its allies or between different regions or communities within the state.

• Potential Successor: The deputy CM is often viewed as a potential successor to the Chief Minister or as a check and balance on the Chief Minister’s authority.

• Influence on Policy: The deputy CM can influence policy-making and governance, depending on their rapport with the Chief Minister and other ministers.

• Acting in Absence: The deputy CM may perform some functions of the Chief Minister in their absence, such as presiding over cabinet meetings, attending official functions, or representing the state in inter-state or national forums.

• Limited Authority: However, the Deputy CM does not possess constitutional authority to act independently of the Chief Minister or to issue orders or directives without their consent.

(The author is a trainer for Civil Services aspirants.)