Within how many months must both Houses of Parliament approve a National Emergency proclamation?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is option 3 i.e.1 month.
A Proclamation of National Emergency must be approved by both Houses of Parliament within one month from the date of its issue. This rule was introduced after the 44th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1978, which reduced the earlier period of two months to one month to prevent misuse of emergency powers. If the Lok Sabha is dissolved at that time, the Rajya Sabha must approve it within one month, and the newly elected Lok Sabha must approve it within 30 days of its first sitting. Without this approval, the Emergency automatically lapses. This safeguard ensures democratic accountability. India has experienced National Emergencies in 1962 (China war), 1971 (Pakistan war), and 1975 (internal disturbance).