Concept:The Chief Minister is the real executive head of a state, but the formal appointment is made by the Governor under Article 164 of the Indian Constitution.
Explanation:The Governor appoints the Chief Minister. The Governor cannot choose any person; the person must be the leader of the party that has a majority in the State Legislative Assembly.
Thus, while the Governor performs the official appointment, the choice is based on the election results.
Article 164 clearly states that the Chief Minister shall be appointed by the Governor.
Other ministers are also appointed by the Governor on the advice of the Chief Minister.
Therefore, the correct appointing authority is the Governor.
Answer:The Governor appoints the Chief Minister. Hence, the correct option is C. The Governor.