Who actually runs Maharashtra, the state governor or the chief minister?

Countries & Cities · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: While the governor of Maharashtra serves as the state's de jure head under the Constitution of India, real executive power lies with the chief minister. This role, which carries no term limits, is central to the governance of the state, shaping policy and leading the legislative assembly for five-year terms.

The office of the chief minister is the heartbeat of Maharashtra's government. Appointed by the governor following assembly elections, the chief minister must command the confidence of the legislative assembly to remain in power. If an individual is appointed who is not yet a member of the state's legislature, they are constitutionally required to secure a seat within six months of taking the oath of office.

The state itself emerged on 1 May 1960, following the Bombay Reorganisation Act of 1960. Yashwantrao Chavan, who had previously served as the third chief minister of the former Bombay State, became the first to lead the newly formed Maharashtra. Since then, the position has been dominated by the Indian National Congress and its various breakaway factions, with notable exceptions including leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party and Shiv Sena.

Historical records reveal the evolving nature of this leadership. Vasantrao Naik holds the record for the longest tenure, serving for over 11 years between December 1963 and February 1975. Conversely, the office has seen moments of instability, with President's rule being imposed on three separate occasions: in 1980, 2014, and 2019. Marotrao Kannamwar remains the only individual to have passed away while holding the office.

Today, the role continues to function as the primary executive authority, with the incumbent Devendra Fadnavis serving since 5 December 2024. The position is inherently tied to the legislative process, as the chief minister typically acts as the leader of the house, ensuring that the council of ministers remains collectively accountable to the assembly.

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