Topic Details (Notes format)

Doctrine of Severability

Subject: Polity

Book: Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth

Allows courts to separate the unconstitutional portion of a statute from the rest, retaining valid segments. Rooted in Article 13, it prevents entire laws from being struck down if partial severance can rectify the conflict with fundamental rights. For instance, if a specific clause contravenes Article 14, the court may sever that clause but uphold the remainder. The test is whether the invalid part can be isolated without altering the legislative intent. This principle prevents legislative chaos by salvaging lawful sections and aligns with the Constitution’s approach of minimal interference in valid legislative domains.

Practice Questions

Who was the first woman President of the Indian National Congress?

संसद सदस्यों का वेतन का निर्धारण किसकी स्वीकृति से होता है?

विधान सभा अध्यक्ष की योग्यता किस आधार पर निर्धारित होती है?

What is the maximum strength of the Rajya Sabha?

भारतीय संविधान में संशोधन की प्रक्रिया किस आधार पर की जाती है?

What is the term of office for a Governor of a state in India?

राज्यों के अधिकारों का निर्धारण किस आधार पर होता है?

Who among the following is the ex-officio Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission of India?

Which of the following is a Fundamental Duty under the Indian Constitution?

न्यायिक स्वतंत्रता सुनिश्चित करने के लिए किस सिद्धांत का पालन किया जाता है?