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

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

Who is the first citizen of India?

Who has the authority to promulgate ordinances in India?

राष्ट्रपति की अनुपस्थिति में संसद में किस सत्र को आयोजित किया जाता है?

Who among the following is known as the "Father of the Nation" in India?

संविधान सभा की अंतिम बैठक किस वर्ष हुई थी?

मौलिक अधिकारों की सुरक्षा के लिए नागरिकों को कौन सा अधिकार प्रदान किया गया है?

लोकसभा का चुनाव किस प्रकार से होता है?

न्यायिक समीक्षा का सिद्धांत किसके द्वारा समर्थित है?

राष्ट्रपति की नियुक्ति में किस संस्था का योगदान महत्वपूर्ण होता है?