In a state within India, the Council of Ministers in a state is collectively responsible to the State Legislature, specifically to the Legislative Assembly. This principle of collective responsibility is a fundamental aspect of the parliamentary system of government, which India follows at both the central and state levels.
What is collective responsibility?
- Collective Responsibility: The Council of Ministers, including the Chief Minister, is collectively responsible for the decisions and policies of the government. This means that all ministers in the cabinet share responsibility for government actions and decisions.
- Legislative Assembly: The Legislative Assembly of the state is the primary legislative body. Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) are elected by the people of the state. The party or coalition with the majority of seats in the Legislative Assembly forms the government.
- Accountability: The Council of Ministers is accountable to the Legislative Assembly for its actions, policies, and decisions. The Chief Minister and other ministers must answer questions, participate in debates, and seek the assembly’s approval for various government actions, including the state budget.
- No-Confidence Motion: If a majority of MLAs in the Legislative Assembly passes a vote of no confidence against the Council of Ministers, the government must resign. This demonstrates the ultimate accountability of the council to the assembly.
In summary, the Council of Ministers in an Indian state is collectively responsible to the State Legislature, particularly the Legislative Assembly, where they are accountable for their actions and policies. This system ensures democratic oversight and accountability in the functioning of the state government.