What is the primary purpose of Article 312 of the Indian Constitution?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Answer: To create an All India Judicial Service.
Explanation:
- Article 312 of the Indian Constitution empowers Parliament to create 'All India Services.' According to this Article, if the Rajya Sabha passes a resolution—supported by a majority of not less than two-thirds of the members present and voting—declaring that it is necessary in the national interest to do so, Parliament may, by law, create one or more All India Services (including an All India Judicial Service).
- The original Constitution provided only for the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and the Indian Police Service (IPS). In 1966, the Indian Forest Service (IFS) was added as the third All India Service. The provision for an All India Judicial Service (AIJS) under Article 312 was added by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976, to facilitate centralized recruitment at the level of District Judges.
Additional Points:
- Option 1: The appointment of Supreme Court Judges is governed by Article 124.
- Option 3: The qualifications for Members of Parliament are primarily determined by Article 84 and the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
- Option 4: The office of the Attorney General of India falls under Article 76.
- Important Fact: The Rajya Sabha possesses special powers compared to the Lok Sabha regarding All India Services.
Possible Exam Questions and Answers:
Question 1: Which House possesses the special power to initiate a proposal for creating a new All India Service?
Answer: Rajya Sabha.
Question 2: In which year was the Indian Forest Service (IFS) established as an All India Service?
Answer: 1966.
Question 3: By which amendment was the provision for an 'All India Judicial Service' added to Article 312?
Answer: 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976.