Who can declare a national emergency?

As per Article 352 of the constitution, the President of India can declare a national emergency when the security of India or a part of it is threatened by war or external aggression or armed rebellion. National emergency can be declared in situations of war, external aggression or armed rebellion. When a national emergency is declared on the grounds of ‘war’ or ‘external aggression’, it is known as ‘External Emergency’. On the other hand, when it is declared on the grounds of ‘armed rebellion’, it is known as ‘Internal Emergency’.

Further Reading:

• Article 356 – President’s Rule
• 42nd Amendment of Indian Constitution