How does the chief minister share power with the governor of West Bengal?

In West Bengal, as in other Indian states, the chief minister and the governor operate under a parliamentary system where the governor serves as the constitutional head of state, while the chief minister holds the real administrative power.1

The relationship is defined by the following principles:

• Aid and Advise: According to Article 163 of the Constitution of India, the council of ministers, led by the chief minister, is tasked to "aid and advise" the governor. While all executive actions are conducted in the governor's name, they are typically carried out based on the advice of the chief minister and the council of ministers.123
• Communication: The chief minister acts as the essential link between the council of ministers and the governor. The chief minister is responsible for keeping the governor informed of all administrative decisions and legislative proposals. The governor may request information regarding the state's governance or require that a matter decided by an individual minister be brought before the full council for review.13
• Appointments and Legislative Role: The governor formally appoints the chief minister and the council of ministers. While the governor holds legislative powers—such as summoning the legislature or granting assent to bills—these are generally exercised on the advice of the state government.1342
• Political Dynamics: Although the governor is largely a figurehead, tensions can arise, particularly when the state government and the central government (which appoints the governor) are led by different political parties. In instances where the governor perceives that the state cannot function according to the Constitution, they may recommend the imposition of president’s rule, which significantly expands the governor's executive authority.13