RuleMate India

SHORT ANSWER: The Supreme Court of India has interpreted Article 356 to limit the imposition of President's Rule and ensure it is used only in specific circumstances. DETAILS: - Article 356 allows the President to assume control of a state government if the state is unable to function according to the Constitution. - The Supreme Court has ruled that the imposition of President's Rule must be based on objective material and not arbitrary. - In the case of S.R. Bommai vs. Union of India (1994), the Court laid down guidelines for the imposition of President's Rule, emphasizing that it should be a last resort. - The duration of President's Rule is limited to six months, but it can be extended with parliamentary approval. PUNISHMENT / IMPLICATIONS (if applicable): - If President's Rule is imposed without valid reasons, it can be challenged in the Supreme Court. SOURCE: - Article 356 of the Constitution of India, S.R. Bommai vs. Union of India (1994)