Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: The Parliament
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
The question focuses on legislative powers in relation to Union Territories. Unlike states, Union Territories have a different constitutional position, and the distribution of legislative powers is correspondingly different. Knowing who can make laws for Union Territories on subjects from all three lists is a part of both polity and federalism topics.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- The geographic units in question are Union Territories, not states.
- The subjects can be from the Union List, State List, or Concurrent List.
- The options list various national authorities and office holders.
Concept / Approach:
For Union Territories, Parliament has the power to make laws on any subject in the Union List and the State List as well as the Concurrent List, subject to specific provisions for territories with legislatures. The key principle is that Parliament retains comprehensive legislative competence over Union Territories. Therefore, when the question asks who can legislate on any subject in all three lists for Union Territories, the correct answer is Parliament.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Polity texts that explain Articles dealing with Union Territories clearly state that Parliament may make laws for any part of the territory of India, including Union Territories, on any subject in the State List as well as the Union and Concurrent Lists. This confirms that Parliament has this broad authority, while other bodies do not.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
The President of India exercises executive power and issues ordinances, but ordinances are temporary and do not replace the regular law making role of Parliament.
The Prime Minister of India heads the Council of Ministers but does not personally make laws; that is the function of Parliament.
The Home Minister plays a leading role in the administration of Union Territories, yet the law making authority still lies with Parliament.
The Supreme Court of India interprets laws and the Constitution but does not legislate for Union Territories.
Common Pitfalls:
Some learners may mistakenly focus on executive roles, such as the President or Home Minister, because they are heavily involved in Union Territory administration. It is important to distinguish between making laws and executing them. In the Indian system, legislating for Union Territories on all three lists is the prerogative of Parliament.
Final Answer:
The authority to make laws for Union Territories on subjects in all three lists lies with the Parliament.
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