Article 142 empowers the Supreme Court of India to pass any decree or order necessary for doing “complete justice” in any pending matter before it.

Article 142 of Indian Constitution, Definition, Powers, Latest News

Q: Why is Article 142 considered unique?

Article 142 is unique because it gives wide discretionary powers to the Supreme Court, even allowing it to fill legal gaps or override statutory limitations for ensuring justice.

Q: Can Article 142 override existing laws?

Yes, temporarily, the Supreme Court can override laws if necessary to ensure complete justice in individual cases, but it cannot permanently alter the law.

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Article 142 Latest News

Recently, the Vice-President criticized Article 142 as a “nuclear missile against democratic forces”, especially after its use in the Tamil Nadu Governor’s case.

What is Article 142?

Article 142 empowers the Supreme Court to pass any order or decree necessary for complete justice in any pending case before it. This power is discretionary and unique to the apex court.
The concept of complete justice means ensuring justice beyond technicalities by filling legislative gaps, and interpreting or even overriding laws when necessary to protect constitutional values, fundamental rights, and social welfare.
The framers of the Constitution, especially Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, intentionally entrusted this extraordinary power only to the Supreme Court. The jurisprudence under Article 142 has developed over 50+ years, with the Court maintaining self-imposed limits.
Article 142 elevates the Supreme Court’s role as the guardian of the Constitution, enabling it to intervene in cases involving public interest, human rights, or democratic breakdown, ensuring justice where legislative or executive action is lacking.
The Article strengthens democracy by protecting the rights of minorities, ensuring equal treatment before the law, and acting as a check on executive and legislative overreach.
Article 142 promotes judicial innovation by allowing the Court to create guidelines and direct government authorities, especially in cases involving public interest and constitutional values.
The lack of a clear definition of “complete justice” can lead to subjectivity, inconsistent rulings, and unaccountable discretion. This raises concerns under the basic structure doctrine, particularly the separation of powers.