Correct Option
The correct option is 1 and 2 only.
Explanation
Article 356 of the Indian Constitution empowers the President to withdraw the executive and legislative powers of any state if he is satisfied that the government of the state cannot be carried on in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution. This provision is commonly referred to as President's Rule or State Emergency.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: The use of Article 356 was relatively infrequent during the initial years of the Republic. Between 1950 and 1967, it was invoked approximately 8 times. The frequency increased significantly after 1967 due to the changing political landscape, where different political parties began ruling at the Centre and in the States, leading to more frequent conflicts and dismissals of state governments.
- Statement 2 is Correct: In the landmark judgment of S.R. Bommai v. Union of India (1994), the Supreme Court declared that the imposition of President's Rule is subject to judicial review. The Court held that the President's satisfaction is not immune from judicial scrutiny and can be struck down if it is found to be mala fide or based on extraneous or irrelevant grounds.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: President's Rule cannot be extended indefinitely. It must be approved by Parliament every six months. The maximum period for which President's Rule can be imposed is three years. Furthermore, extending the proclamation beyond one year requires the fulfillment of two specific conditions: a National Emergency must be in operation, or the Election Commission must certify that elections cannot be held.
Key Takeaway: The S.R. Bommai case (1994) is the cornerstone for interpreting Article 356, establishing judicial review and federal safeguards. Unlike National Emergency, President's Rule has a strict maximum duration of three years.