What are the emergency functions of the Union Government of India? Describe how they impact the legislative powers of Parliament and State Legislatures.
In short
The Union's emergency functions under Articles 352, 356 and 360 let it assume legislative, executive and financial control in crises, turning the federation temporarily unitary. Parliament can legislate on State List subjects under Article 250, while State Legislatures may be suspended under President's Rule.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 265 words
Expanded Parliamentary Lawmaking
Under National Emergency (Article 352), Parliament gains power under Article 250 to legislate on all subjects, including the State List, sidelining State Legislatures, as during the 1971 Indo-Pak war emergency.
Executive Control Over States
Article 356 allows the Union to impose President’s Rule, suspending or dissolving State Legislatures, exemplified by President's Rule in undivided Andhra Pradesh in 2014, just before bifurcation.
Override of State Laws
Parliament can override or suspend state legislation during emergencies, reducing state legislative independence, as seen in the 1975-77 Emergency.
Financial Centralization
Under Financial Emergency (Article 360), the Union directs states on financial propriety, salary reductions, and reserves financial bills for presidential approval, limiting states’ fiscal autonomy, affecting states like Andhra Pradesh.
Suspension and Loss of Autonomy
State Legislatures can be suspended or dissolved, halting legislative functions and losing exclusive powers during emergencies.
Financial Legislative Constraints
States must comply with Union directives on finances, curtailing independent fiscal legislation.
Strengthen Federal Safeguards
Amend Article 356 to require consultation and judicial approval before President’s Rule.
Promote Cooperative Federalism
Use mechanisms like the Inter-State Council to balance emergency powers with state interests, especially in Andhra Pradesh.
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