Polity · 2 Aug 2026
Under Article 164(4) of the Constitution of India, for how long can a person who is not a member of the State Legislature continue to serve as a Minister of that State?
The Supreme Court questioned the Bihar government over retaining unelected minister Deepak Prakash beyond the six-month limit, prompting an MLC's resignation to enable his election.
UPSC frequently tests specific constitutional time limits (e.g., President's Rule, ordinance validity) and Article 164(4) is a recurring polity fundamental now made topical by the Bihar controversy.
Article 164(4) permits a non-legislator to serve as a state minister for a maximum of six consecutive months, after which they must secure election or vacate office.
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