Topic Details (Notes format)

Concurrent Powers and Doctrine of Repugnancy

Subject: Polity

Book: Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth

When Parliament and a state legislature pass conflicting laws on concurrent list subjects, central law prevails (Article 254) unless the state law obtains presidential assent. This “doctrine of repugnancy” prevents overlapping statutes from causing confusion. Courts analyze whether an actual conflict exists or if both laws can coexist. If repugnancy is found, the union law or the latter law with presidential assent supersedes. This ensures legislative harmony and respects the Constitution’s hierarchy. States, though free to adapt central frameworks for local conditions, must avoid direct contradiction. Mastery of this principle explains how India’s concurrency fosters unity without stifling state innovation.

Practice Questions

Which of the following provisions of the Indian Constitution is related to the financial emergency?

राष्ट्रपति के आपातकालिक शक्तियाँ किस अनुच्छेद के तहत निर्धारित हैं?

Who is considered the "father of the Indian Constitution"?

संविधान सभा की बैठकें किस वर्ष प्रारंभ हुई थीं?

Which of the following is an essential feature of a federal system?

लोकसभा का चुनाव किस प्रकार से होता है?

राजनीतिक दलों की स्वतंत्रता किस अनुच्छेद में सुनिश्चित की गई है?

भारतीय संविधान में मौलिक कर्तव्यों का प्रावधान किस अनुच्छेद में है?

What is the maximum number of judges in the Supreme Court of India?

Which article of the Indian Constitution deals with the impeachment of the President?