In a powerful argument for constitutional reform, political analyst Suhit K Sen has called for the abolition of governor posts across Indian states, describing the position as a colonial relic that undermines true federalism.
Writing on November 25, 2025, Sen contends that India's federal structure remains heavily influenced by British colonial frameworks, with the governor's office serving as a tool for central government interference in state affairs.
The Colonial Legacy of Governor's Office
The institution of governor, according to Sen, represents a top-down approach to governance that India inherited from British rule. Rather than evolving into a ceremonial position as in other democracies, the governor's office in India has become increasingly politicized.
The colonial framework has been surprisingly resilient, with governors frequently acting as agents of the central government rather than as constitutional heads of state governments. This dynamic creates constant friction between state and central administrations, particularly when different political parties are in power.
Judicial Reinforcement of Colonial Framework
Sen points to an alarming development: the reinforcement of this colonial structure through judicial sanction. Recent court decisions have tended to uphold the extensive powers of governors, often at the expense of state governments' autonomy.
This judicial backing has strengthened what many constitutional experts consider an undemocratic feature of Indian polity. The timing of this analysis is crucial, coming amid ongoing debates about federalism and states' rights in India's evolving democracy.
The Path Toward Decolonisation
Abolishing the governor's post, Sen argues, would be a significant step toward decolonising India's political infrastructure. This move would require constitutional amendments but could fundamentally reshape center-state relations.
True federalism demands trust and cooperation between different levels of government, not oversight mechanisms rooted in colonial distrust of regional leadership. The current system often leads to confrontations that distract from governance and development priorities.
As India continues to develop as a mature democracy, re-examining colonial-era institutions becomes increasingly important. The debate around governor posts represents a larger conversation about how India can build political structures that truly reflect its democratic aspirations rather than its colonial past.
