In periods when the Chief Minister held executive authority, the Governor primarily served as a ceremonial head of state.From 1947 to 1954, the governance of East Bengal was based on the Indian Independence Act, 1947 and Government of India Act 1935 - with certain adaptations, which provided the legal framework for provincial administration The office of the Governor of East Bengal was the highest executive authority in the province, acting as the representative of the Governor-General of Pakistan.
and accept he Governor-General as the central executive authority and respect the laws and constitution governing East Bengal at the time.
In the event of a vacancy, the Governor-General could appoint an acting Governor (usually the chief justice of Dhaka High Court) until a permanent replacement was selected.
His executive powers extended to matters within the legislative competence of the Provincial Legislature, ensuring that administrative decisions aligned with existing laws.
Additionally, any powers previously granted to courts, judges, officers, or local authorities under Pakistani laws remained unaffected by the Governor’s executive control.
The Governor could override the advice of the Council in areas where he had special responsibilities or where the Act granted him discretionary powers.
Ministerial advice to the Governor could not be questioned in court, ensuring that executive decisions remained beyond judicial scrutiny.
His responsibilities included: The Governor had the authority to reject provincial legislation if it was deemed inconsistent with national interests or security concerns.
[7]The province had an Advocate-General, appointed by the Governor: Political Party Legend President (1891-1977) (British Administrator) A.S.M.