Question

Article 'X' gave extensive powers to the Central Government to assert its authority over a state. The ruling parties often misused it at the Centre, who used it as a pretext to dissolve state governments ruled by political opponents.
What is 'X'?

• A. Article 20
• B. Article 356
• C. Article 300
• D. Article 400

Answer 1

The correct option is B Article 356

When the Governor of the state feels that the State Government cannot administer the state as per the Constitution, they can recommend the President for the dismissal of the State Government or dissolution of the State Assembly, as per the provision of the Constitution under Article 356. This article gave extensive powers to the Central Government to assert its authority over a state. There were no clear guidelines regarding the article in the Constitution. Hence, the ruling parties often misused it at the Centre, who used it as a pretext to dissolve state governments ruled by political opponents.