Topic Details (Notes format)

Doctrine of Colourable Legislation

Subject: Polity

Book: Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth

States that what cannot be done directly cannot be done indirectly. If a legislature exceeds its jurisdiction under the guise of a valid subject, courts may declare it void. This ensures that legislative competence is not circumvented. For example, a state cannot legislate on a Union subject by artificially labeling it a “state subject.” The Supreme Court checks colorable legislation to maintain constitutional demarcations. Though legislatures can creatively draft laws to serve local needs, overstepping boundaries invites judicial scrutiny. Hence, this doctrine preserves the distribution of powers and integrity of legislative competence under India’s federal scheme.

Practice Questions

न्यायिक समीक्षा किस सिद्धांत पर आधारित है?

Which of the following is NOT a power of the President of India?

आपातकाल में संसद के सदनों में कितने प्रतिशत मतों की आवश्यकता होती है?

Who among the following is the ex-officio Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission of India?

भारतीय संसद की दो सदनों का नाम क्या है?

Which of the following is a feature of the Indian Parliamentary System?

भारतीय संविधान में संशोधन की प्रक्रिया किस आधार पर की जाती है?

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

राष्ट्रपति के आदेशों को निरस्त करने का अधिकार किसके पास है?

Who is the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha?