President Rule – UPSC Prelims

  • It implies the suspension of a state government and the imposition of direct rule of the Centre.
  • It is also known as ‘State Emergency’ or ‘Constitutional Emergency’.
  • The SC in Bommai case 1994 enlisted the situations where the exercise of power under Article 356 could be used.
  • One such situation is that of ‘Hung Assembly’, i.e. where after general elections to the assembly, no party secures a majority.
  • The President’s rule is imposed through the invocation of Article 356 of the Constitution by the President on the advice of the Union Council of Ministers (executive).
  • If the President, upon receipt of the report from the Governor of the State or otherwise, is satisfied that a situation has arisen in which the government of the State cannot be carried on in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution.
  • Parliamentary Approval and Duration:
    • A proclamation imposing President’s Rule must be approved by both the Houses of Parliament within two months from the date of its issue.
    • The approval takes place through simple majority in either House, that is, a majority of the members of the House present and voting.
    • Initially valid for six months, the President’s Rule can be extended for a maximum period of three years with the approval of the Parliament, every six months.
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