Topic Details (Notes format)

Doctrine of Colourable Legislation

Subject: Polity

Book: Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth

States that what cannot be done directly cannot be done indirectly. If a legislature exceeds its jurisdiction under the guise of a valid subject, courts may declare it void. This ensures that legislative competence is not circumvented. For example, a state cannot legislate on a Union subject by artificially labeling it a “state subject.” The Supreme Court checks colorable legislation to maintain constitutional demarcations. Though legislatures can creatively draft laws to serve local needs, overstepping boundaries invites judicial scrutiny. Hence, this doctrine preserves the distribution of powers and integrity of legislative competence under India’s federal scheme.

Practice Questions

संसद कार्यवाही की समय सीमा किस अनुच्छेद में उल्लिखित है?

View Question

Which of the following is NOT a feature of the Indian Constitution?

View Question

Who is the head of the government in India?

View Question

Who was the first woman Speaker of the Lok Sabha?

View Question

Which of the following provisions of the Indian Constitution is related to the financial emergency?

View Question

Who is responsible for the appointment of the members of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)?

View Question

कार्यपालिका के प्रमुख का चुनाव किसके द्वारा किया जाता है?

View Question

Which of the following is NOT a part of the Indian Constitution?

View Question

Who was the first woman Prime Minister of India?

View Question

What is the minimum number of members in the Lok Sabha?

View Question