'X' was addressing a seminar on the meaning of the term 'law' as provided under Article 13, Part III of the Constitution of India. 'X' explained that the meaning of the term 'law' in the Constitution of India was very comprehensive. It included ordinances, orders and even rules and regulations. 'Y' pointed out that the term 'law' in Article 13 also included custom or usage having in the territory of India the force of law, to which 'X' was not convinced.
- Based on the above, select the correct conclusion from the options given below:
Correct answer: D
Explanation
Under Article 13(3)(a), 'law' is defined inclusively to mean any Ordinance, order, bye-law, rule, regulation, notification, custom or usage having in the territory of India the force of law. Therefore Y is right: custom and usage with force of law are expressly included. X's interpretation, which excludes custom, is incomplete and contrary to the bare text of Article 13(3)(a). Consequently only Y's view is correct, making option (d) the right answer. This is settled doctrine reaffirmed in cases like Sant Ram v. Labh Singh and Madhu Kishwar v. State of Bihar.