Q. Consider the following statements regarding the National Emergency under Article 352 of the Indian Constitution:
1.The President can declare a National Emergency even in anticipation of war, external aggression, or armed rebellion, without the actual occurrence.
2.The original Constitution allowed the proclamation of a National Emergency on the grounds of “armed rebellion” and “financial instability”.
3.A proclamation of National Emergency must be approved by both Houses of Parliament within one month and continued only with special majority approval every six months.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
Answer: B
Notes:
Explanation:
- The President can proclaim a National Emergency if there is an imminent danger of war, external aggression, or armed rebellion.
- The original Constitution used the term “internal disturbance”, not “armed rebellion” or “financial instability” (the latter is covered under Article 360). “Armed rebellion” replaced “internal disturbance” through the 44th Amendment Act, 1978.
- As per the 44th Amendment Act, 1978, the proclamation must be approved by both Houses within 1 month, and further continuance must be approved every six months by a special majority (majority of total membership + 2/3 of members present and voting).
Source: Laxmikant (Polity)
