UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 56
With reference to the Indian polity, consider the following statements :
- An Ordinance can amend any Central Act.
- An Ordinance can abridge a Fundamental Right.
- An Ordinance can come into effect from a back date.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: C
Correct Option: C (I and III only)
Explanation: An Ordinance under Article 123 has the force of an Act and can amend ordinary central legislation, subject to constitutional limits. It cannot violate Fundamental Rights but may validly operate retrospectively if legislative competence permits.
Statement / Pair / Item-wise Analysis:
I: True-an Ordinance can modify an ordinary central Act within Parliament's legislative power.
II: False-ordinances are subject to Part III and cannot abridge Fundamental Rights.
III: True-retrospective operation is possible within constitutional limits.
Option-wise Analysis:
A. Incorrect-includes II despite the item-wise findings; omits III which the answer requires.
B. Incorrect-includes II despite the item-wise findings; omits I which the answer requires.
C. Correct-this matches the facts and the item-wise assessment above.
D. Incorrect-includes II despite the item-wise findings.