Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 320

Recently, The Central government has notified the appointment of Justice Rajesh Bindal as the acting Chief Justice of Calcutta High Court. The appointment was made by President Ram Nath Kovind in exercise of the powers conferred by ..... of the Constitution.

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the provisions related to the appointment of acting Chief Justices in the Constitution.

Correct Answer: C) ARTICLE 223.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The Indian Constitution, a comprehensive document that outlines the framework of the government and the rights and duties of citizens, includes specific provisions for the appointment of acting Chief Justices of High Courts. This is covered under Article 223 of the Constitution.

Article 223 states that when the office of the Chief Justice of a High Court is vacant, or the incumbent is unable to perform his duties, the President of India may appoint an acting Chief Justice from among the other judges of the High Court. This provision ensures that the High Court can continue to function smoothly even in the absence of the Chief Justice.

The appointment of an acting Chief Justice is a temporary measure and is intended to maintain the continuity of the judicial process. The President's power to make such an appointment is derived from the Constitution itself, specifically Article 223, which grants the President the authority to appoint an acting Chief Justice in the specified circumstances.

It is important to distinguish this provision from other constitutional articles that deal with different aspects of the judiciary. For example, Article 213 deals with the powers of the Governor to grant pardons, reprieves, etc., and is not related to the appointment of acting Chief Justices. Similarly, Article 233 pertains to the appointment of district judges, and Article 243 deals with the powers, authority, and responsibilities of Panchayats. These articles are not relevant to the appointment of acting Chief Justices of High Courts.

Understanding the specific provisions of the Constitution is crucial for anyone preparing for competitive examinations such as the UPSC, SSC, or State PSC, as these topics are frequently tested. The correct answer to the question is Article 223, as it is the constitutional provision that governs the appointment of acting Chief Justices of High Courts.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Incorrect. Article 213 of the Indian Constitution deals with the power of the Governor to grant pardons, reprieves, etc., and is not related to the appointment of acting Chief Justices of High Courts.
  • Option B: Incorrect. Article 233 of the Indian Constitution pertains to the appointment of district judges and is not related to the appointment of acting Chief Justices of High Courts.
  • Option C: Correct. Article 223 of the Indian Constitution provides for the appointment of an acting Chief Justice of a High Court when the office is vacant or the incumbent is unable to perform his duties.
  • Option D: Incorrect. Article 243 of the Indian Constitution deals with the powers, authority, and responsibilities of Panchayats and is not related to the appointment of acting Chief Justices of High Courts.

Mnemonic: RCA: Rajesh, Calcutta, Article 223

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