SHORT ANSWER:
The Supreme Court has laid down guidelines to prevent arbitrary dismissal of state legislatures under Article 356.
DETAILS:
- The Supreme Court in various judgments has emphasized that the power under Article 356 should be exercised only in exceptional circumstances.
- The Court has mandated that the President must have material evidence to justify the imposition of President's Rule.
- The decision must be based on the failure of the constitutional machinery in the state, not on political considerations.
PUNISHMENT / IMPLICATIONS (if applicable):
- If the dismissal is found to be arbitrary, it can be challenged in the Supreme Court, which may restore the state government.
SOURCE:
- Constitution of India, Article 356; Supreme Court Judgments.
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