President's Rule (Article 356) Quiz: Master 25 Essential MCQs
Crucial for understanding center-state relations in Indian polity
Understanding President's Rule: Constitutional Safeguard for Federalism
Article 356 empowers the President to impose President's Rule in states when the constitutional machinery fails. Originally intended for rare exceptional circumstances, its frequent use has sparked debates about federal dynamics.
The S.R. Bommai case (1994) revolutionized judicial review of President's Rule, establishing that floor test is the only legitimate test and imposing strict guidelines. Recent years have seen careful application with Supreme Court oversight.
KPSC and UPSC aspirants must understand the procedural requirements, judicial precedents, and contemporary controversies surrounding this constitutional provision for comprehensive exam preparation.
Key Facts: President's Rule
| Item | Details | Amendment |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum duration | 6 months (extendable up to 1 year) | Original |
| Floor test | Rajya Sabha Speaker's decision | Bommai case (1994) |
| President's order | Must be ratified by Parliament | 44th Amendment |
| Written communication | Governor must communicate in writing | Bommai case |
| Judicial review |
Study Notes: Article 356 Essentials
Constitutional Provisions
Article 356 applies when "the government of the State cannot be carried on in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution." The President can assume state functions but cannot make laws.
S.R. Bommai Case (1994)
Landmark verdict that: (1) Floor test is paramount, (2) Presidential satisfaction must be based on objective facts, (3) Political considerations cannot justify imposition, (4) Parliamentary ratification mandatory within 2 months.
Recent Applications
Post-Bommai, President's Rule has been invoked sparingly. Karnataka (2019), Madhya Pradesh (2020), and Manipur (2022) saw applications based on floor test failures and constitutional deadlocks.
Previous Year Relevance
| Year | Exam | Type | Topic |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | KPSC Prelims | MCQ | Bommai case principles | 2024 | UPSC Prelims | Statement-based | Federal structure and 356 |
Article 356 Quiz
Question 1/25Common Mistakes
| Mistake | Correction |
|---|---|
| Any breakdown triggers 356 | Only constitutional machinery failure |
| President can make state laws | President can only legislate on subjects in state list during emergency |
| No judicial review | Full judicial review available |
FAQ
Q: Can President's Rule be imposed indefinitely?
A: No, maximum 6 months with possible one-time extension up to 1 year.
Q: What is the floor test?
A: Test to determine if government enjoys majority in state assembly, established in S.R. Bommai case.