Article 365 of Indian Constitution, Interpretation, Significance

Article 365 comes under Part XIX of the Constitution of India. The article plays an important role in defining Centre-State relations under the federal structure of India. It gives the power to the Union government to make sure that states follow the constitutional directives. In this article, we are going to cover Article 365, its constitutional interpretation and the important landmark cases associated with the article. 

Article 365 of the Constitution of India Interpretation 

Article 365 of the constitution of India talks about the consequences that one might have to face in case of a state failing to comply with the directives given by the Union government. It states that if a state does not follow the directions given by the Union, the President has the power to declare that the state government cannot function according to the Constitution. This neglect can lead to imposition of President Rule under Article 356. 

Article 365 of Indian Constitution Landmark Judgements

The Supreme Court has constantly helped in the interpretation and application of Article 365. The judgements have helped the Union to take charge and action whenever a state has failed to work on the lines of constitutional directions. These cases are:  

• S.R. Bommai v. Union of India (1994):
  A verdict where the Supreme Court ruled that the President’s satisfaction in proclaiming President’s Rule is subject to judicial review. This judgment placed constitutional checks on the misuse of Article 356 and provided Article 365 legal substance and safeguards.
• State of Rajasthan v. Union of India (1977):
  The Supreme Court upheld the Union’s power to issue directions under Article 256 and said that non-compliance by a state could trigger Article 365. It made everyone aware of the Centre’s ability to ensure constitutional governance.
• Rameshwar Prasad v. Union of India (2006):
  The premature dissolution of the Bihar State Assembly was declared unconstitutional, stating that Articles 365 and 356 must be invoked only on objective, verifiable grounds and not on presumptions or political motives.
• Kihoto Hollohan v. Zachillhu (1992):
  The anti-defection law addressed the constitutional processes that must guide legislative and executive actions and indirectly support the guidelines and aim behind Article 365.

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Article 365 Significance 

Article 365 of the Constitution of India is important due to the following reason: 

• The article lays down a constitutional mechanism that helps in promoting cooperative federalism, while also allowing central intervention in certain circumstances. 
• Provides legal guidelines for action under Article 356. 
• Post S.R. Bommai case, the article became applicable under strictly regulated judicial oversight, making sure it is not misused for political convenience.
• Protects the integrity of the constitution and maintains state autonomy and national unity.