Topic Details (Notes format)

Ordinance-Making Power of the Executive

Subject: Polity

Book: Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth

Under Articles 123 (President) and 213 (Governor), the executive can promulgate ordinances when the legislature is not in session, provided immediate action is necessary. These carry the same force as laws but must be approved by the legislature in its next session. The power addresses urgent policy needs, yet critics fear its misuse to bypass legislative debate. Court rulings (e.g., D.C. Wadhwa case) have stressed that ordinances cannot be reissued indefinitely. While ordinances can expedite governance, prolonged reliance undermines legislative supremacy. Effective checks ensure it remains an emergency tool, rather than a routine legislative shortcut.

Practice Questions

What is the minimum age for a person to become the Chief Minister of a state in India?

What is the minimum age for a person to contest elections for the Lok Sabha?

What is the procedure for impeachment of the President of India?

Which of the following is NOT a feature of the Indian federal system?

राज्यसभा के सदस्यों का चयन किस आधार पर किया जाता है?

Who was the first woman Chief Minister in India?

Who was the first President of India?

संविधान सभा की बैठकें किस वर्ष प्रारंभ हुई थीं?

कार्यपालिका और विधानपालिका के बीच संतुलन किस सिद्धांत पर आधारित है?

राज्य सरकारों के अधिकार किस अनुच्छेद में वर्णित हैं?