What does Article 356 empower the President to do, and what are its constitutional safeguards?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is option 2 i.e. Dismiss State government; needs approval within two months.
Article 356 of the Indian Constitution empowers the President to impose President’s Rule in a state when the constitutional machinery fails and the state government cannot function according to constitutional provisions. In such a situation, the President can dismiss the State Council of Ministers and transfer the administration of the state to the Governor acting on behalf of the Centre.
However, this power is not absolute and includes constitutional safeguards. The proclamation issued under Article 356 must be approved by both Houses of Parliament within two months. If approved, it can continue for six months at a time, subject to parliamentary approval. The Supreme Court can also review the validity of President’s Rule, as established in the S.R. Bommai case, preventing its misuse for political purposes. Therefore, the correct option is: “Dismiss State government; needs approval within two months.”