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Constitution of India · Section Article 256

Obligation of States and the Union

Article 256 — Obligation of States and the Union

State shall be so exercised as to ensure compliance with the laws made by Parliament and any existing laws which apply in that State, and the executive power of the Union shall extend to the giving of such directions to a State as may appear to the Government of India to be necessary for that purpose:

Plain English Summary

This article states that the State governments must follow the laws made by the Parliament (Central Government) and any existing local laws. The Union government also has the power to give directions to a State if it thinks it is necessary to ensure these laws are followed.

Key Points

  • States must comply with laws made by Parliament.
  • States must also comply with any laws that already apply within that State.
  • The Union government can issue directions to a State if needed for compliance.

Why It Matters

This ensures that the entire country operates under a unified legal framework, making sure that laws passed by the central legislature are implemented across all states.

Landmark Judgements

No major landmark judgements.

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