Maharashtra government clarifies Chief Minister's authority to override ministers

The Maharashtra government has clarified that the authority of the Chief Minister to override ministerial decisions is not a new power, despite recent reports suggesting the introduction of a new ‘veto’. Government sources stated that the ability to revoke ministerial decisions has existed under the 1975 Rules of Business and is rooted in the Constitution, which views ministerial powers as being delegated by the Chief Minister.

Under the ‘Maharashtra Government Rules of Business, 2026’, the Chief Minister may override a minister’s decision if it is deemed to be in the public interest and the reasons are recorded in writing. However, this authority specifically excludes quasi-judicial matters, where ministerial decisions remain final unless challenged in the High Court.

The notification, issued by the General Administration Department, follows discussions regarding the limits of executive power, including a 2023 legal case involving the Chandrapur District Central Co-operative Bank Ltd.