SHORT ANSWER:
Article 356 of the Indian Constitution allows the President to impose President's Rule in a state if the governance cannot be carried out according to the Constitution.
DETAILS:
- The President can assume control of the state government if the constitutional machinery breaks down.
- The imposition of President's Rule must be based on the report of the Governor of the state.
- The Supreme Court has interpreted this article to mean that the President's Rule should not be misused for political gains and should be based on genuine circumstances.
PUNISHMENT / IMPLICATIONS (if applicable):
- If misused, it can be challenged in the Supreme Court, which can revoke the imposition of President's Rule.
SOURCE:
- Constitution of India, Article 356
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