A
10
B
12
C
13
D
14
Correct answer: (b) 12
Explanation
- A
10
Ten would under-shoot the constitutional floor created with the 15 per cent cap.
- B
12
The 91st Amendment (2003) capped the Council of Ministers at 15 per cent of the Legislative Assembly, with a minimum of 12 including the Chief Minister. That floor is the official key.
- C
13
Thirteen is neither the percentage cap nor the stated minimum.
- D
14
Fourteen is likewise not the Article 164(1A) minimum.
Summary. Official key is (b) 12. Small Assemblies cannot apply 15 per cent if that would yield fewer than twelve ministers including the CM. The Union analogue is 15 per cent of Lok Sabha. Honour the stored letter (b).