According to the Indian Constitution, which of the following is the final authority in the interpretation of the Constitution?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is option 2 i.e. Supreme Court.
According to the Indian Constitution, the Supreme Court of India is the final authority in the interpretation of the Constitution. Under Article 141, its decisions are binding on all courts within India, ensuring uniformity in constitutional interpretation. The Supreme Court acts as the guardian and interpreter of the Constitution, protecting fundamental rights and maintaining the balance between the legislature, executive, and judiciary.
Other options:
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Lok Sabha (House of the People): This is the lower house of Parliament and the primary legislative body. Its function is to make laws and hold the executive accountable, but it does not interpret the final meaning of the Constitution's text.
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Parliament (Lok Sabha + Rajya Sabha + President): It is the supreme law-making body and has the power to amend the Constitution (Article 368). However, any amendment is subject to judicial review by the Supreme Court, which can strike it down if it violates the Basic Structure. Thus, Parliament's power to amend is not absolute and is subservient to the Supreme Court's power of final interpretation.
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President: The President is the ceremonial Head of State and is obligated by their oath (Article 60) to "preserve, protect and defend the Constitution." While they give assent to bills and exercise executive powers, they rely on the advice of the Council of Ministers and do not have the final authority to interpret constitutional law. They can seek an advisory opinion from the Supreme Court (Article 143), but that opinion is not binding on them.