Correct Answer:
B. Chief Minister
High-level appointments, especially for bodies requiring independence, are typically made by the head of government or a senior executive to ensure legitimacy, accountability, and strategic alignment.
- Chief Minister is the correct answer. As the head of the executive, the Chief Minister holds the ultimate authority to nominate such a crucial panel, ensuring accountability and alignment with governmental objectives while upholding the panel's independence.
- Chief Secretary is incorrect because while a senior administrative officer, the Chief Minister typically has higher authority for such significant nominations.
- Director General is incorrect as this is usually an operational head, not typically responsible for nominating a high-level selection panel for independent members.
- Vice Chairperson is incorrect because a Vice Chairperson of the Authority itself would likely be part of the body being overseen, creating a conflict of interest in nominating the selection panel for independent members.