WHAT IS ART. 142?

Article 142, in media parlance, is often referred to as ‘judicial activism’. In cases and situations where the law or statute is unable to provide a solution, Article 142 provides special powers to the Supreme Court of India to do “complete justice”. It is understood that such orders are enforceable nationwide, the same as any law made by Parliament or by order of the President of India. Some instances of Article 142 being used…

| Ban on the sale of alcohol within a stipulated distance of 500 metres from the outer edge of the highway (to avoid accidents due to drinking and driving)

| Cancelling allocation of coal blocks granted from 1993 onwards of those who were guilty of wrongdoing

| Providing compensation to the Bhopal gas tragedy victims