Under which Article is the President's Rule imposed in a state?

• A. Article 355
• B. Article 356
• C. Article 357
• D. Article 358

Answer: (B)

The imposition of President's Rule in a state is governed by Article 356 of the Indian Constitution. This article allows the President of India to assume control over the state government when the constitutional machinery fails. Essentially, it enables the central government to take over the functions of the state government when it is unable to govern due to various reasons, such as political instability or failure to carry out constitutional responsibilities.

Under Article 356, the President can declare that the government of a state cannot be carried out in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution. Following such a declaration, the President can dissolve the state legislative assembly and appoint a governor to administer the state. This mechanism serves as an emergency provision to maintain constitutional order in the states.

In contrast, the other articles mentioned relate to different aspects of governance. Article 355 pertains to the duty of the Union to protect states against external aggression and internal disturbance, while Article 357 provides for legislation by Parliament to give effect to the proclamation of President's Rule. Article 358 concerns the suspension of the fundamental rights during a proclamation of emergency. Each of these articles serves distinct purposes and contexts within the framework of the Indian Constitution, but it is Article 356 that specifically addresses the situation of President's Rule in a state