UPSC Prelims 2003 Q94: Indian Polity – Union & State Executive
Under which Article of the Indian Constitution did the President give his assent to the
ordinance on electoral reforms when it was sent back to him by the Union Cabinet without
making any changes (in the year 2002)?
- (a) Article 121
- (b) Article 122
- (c) Article 123
- (d) Article 124
Answer: (c) Article 123
Explanation
Ordinance on electoral reforms, 2002
| Article | Subject |
|---|---|
| Article 123 | President's power to promulgate ordinances |
| Article 121 | Restriction on discussion of judges' conduct |
| Article 122 | Courts not to inquire into proceedings of Parliament |
| Article 124 | Establishment of the Supreme Court |
The President gave his assent to the ordinance under Article 123, which empowers him to promulgate ordinances when Parliament is not in session.
Answer: (c) Article 123.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Article 121 restricts discussion of judges' conduct.
- (b) Incorrect. Article 122 deals with proceedings of Parliament.
- (c) CORRECT. Article 123 is the ordinance-making power.
- (d) Incorrect. Article 124 establishes the Supreme Court.
Key point
Ordinance: Article 123 (Union), Article 213 (State); must be laid before Parliament within six weeks of reassembly.
Remember
Article 123 empowers the President to promulgate ordinances.
Common mistakes
- Mixing Article 123 with Article 213 for States.
- Choosing Article 121 on conduct of judges.
- Forgetting the six weeks rule for ordinances.
Exam tip
Article 123: ordinances by the President.
Sources
- Constitution of India — Article 123
- M. Laxmikanth — Indian Polity (President)