Context: The government in the Union Territory of Puducherry appeared to have lost majority with ruling party legislator resigning.
Issue

• Kiran Bedi was removed as Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry. Telangana Governor has been given additional charge of the Union Territory until regular arrangements are made.
• Also, the Congress government has slipped into minority after the resignation of two MLAs in the last two days. 
• Known for her regular confrontation with the elected government, there were demands to the President earlier to recall the LG.

Appointment of Lieutenant Governor

• The Lt. Governor is appointed by the President for a term of five years.
• The Governors of the states and territories of India have similar powers and functions at the state level as that of the President of India at Union level.
• Only Indian citizens above 35 years of age are eligible for appointment.

Powers of the Governor

• Executive powers related to administration, appointments and removals.
• Legislative powers related to law-making and the state legislature.
• Discretionary powers to be carried out according to the discretion of the Governor.

Powers of Lt. Governor

• The powers a Lt. Governor has in the state they administer is equivalent to that of the President.
• They can appoint Chief Ministers, Ministers, the State Election Commissioner and judges of the District Courts.
• They also serve as Chancellors of all the universities in the state.
• The Lt. Governor can also dissolve the state Assembly if they see the need, and if the Assembly is not in session, they can promulgate ordinances.
• Based on the recommendation of the Election Commission, the Governor can also disqualify a legislator.
• To rule the state in case the ruling party loses its majority in the Assembly.

Difference between LG of Delhi and Puducherry

• the differences between the powers conferred on the legislatures of Puducherry and Delhi under Articles 239A and 239AA of the Constitution.
• Article 239AA imposes several restrictions on the legislature of Delhi, no such restrictions had been imposed explicitly in the case of Puducherry under Article 239A.
• The LG of Delhi enjoys greater powers than the LG of Puducherry.
• The LG of Delhi has “Executive Functions” that allow him to exercise his powers in matters connected to public order, police and land “in consultation with the Chief Minister.
• While the LG of Delhi is also guided by the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi Act, 1991, and the Transaction of Business of the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi Rules, 1993;
• The LG of Puducherry is guided mostly by the Government of Union Territories Act, 1963.
• Delhi Assembly has the power to legislate on all subjects except law and order and land.
• The Puducherry Assembly can legislate on any issue under the Concurrent and State Lists.
• If the law is in conflict with a law passed by Parliament, the law passed by Parliament prevails.