SHORT ANSWER:
Article 356 can be invoked when the President believes that the governance of a state cannot be carried out according to the Constitution.
DETAILS:
- It allows the President to assume control of the state government if there is a failure of constitutional machinery.
- The conditions include breakdown of law and order, failure to hold elections, or inability of the state government to function according to the Constitution.
- The criteria have evolved with judicial interpretations and political practices over time, leading to more scrutiny and checks on its use.
PUNISHMENT / IMPLICATIONS (if applicable):
- The imposition of President's Rule can lead to the dissolution of the state assembly and the administration of the state by the central government.
SOURCE:
- Constitution of India, Article 356
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