The SR Bommai vs Union of India is a landmark decision that strengthened federalism, limited misuse of President’s Rule, and upheld constitutional governance in India.

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• The case arose from the dismissal of state governments under Article 356, where the central government imposed President’s Rule, raising concerns about misuse of constitutional provisions for political purposes.
• The Supreme Court ruled that the imposition of President’s Rule is subject to judicial review, ensuring that arbitrary or politically motivated decisions can be challenged and examined by courts.
• The judgment emphasized that majority support of a government must be tested on the floor of the legislative assembly, not decided solely by the Governor’s subjective assessment.
• It reinforced the principle of federalism as part of the basic structure of the Constitution, limiting excessive central interference in state governance and protecting state autonomy.
• The Court clarified that secularism is a fundamental feature of the Constitution, and any state government acting against it can be dismissed under constitutional provisions.
• It laid down strict guidelines for the use of Article 356, making it a measure of last resort rather than a tool for routine political intervention.
• The judgment also stated that if President’s Rule is declared unconstitutional, the dismissed government can be restored, ensuring accountability of central authority.
• This decision significantly reduced misuse of constitutional powers and strengthened democratic principles, making it one of the most important rulings in Indian constitutional history.