According to the Constitution of India, the governor is a state's head, but de facto executive authority rests with the chief minister.

They also direct the chief secretary to transfer, suspend, or promote officers of their state.

The Constitution of India sets the principle qualifications one must meet to be eligible to the office of chief minister.

This is procedurally established by the vote of confidence in the legislative assembly, as suggested by the governor of the state who is the appointing authority.

Since the post is not constitutionally defined, the caretaker chief minister enjoys all the powers a regular chief minister, but cannot to make any major policy decisions or cabinet changes during his or her short tenure as caretaker.

Despite being not mentioned in the constitution or law, the deputy-chief minister office is often used to pacify factions within the party or coalition.