The correct answer is: a) Article 352
Article 352 of the Indian Constitution provides for the declaration of a National Emergency. A National Emergency can be declared by the President of India if he is satisfied that a grave emergency exists whereby the security of India or any part of the territory thereof is threatened, whether by war or external aggression or armed rebellion.
The President can declare a National Emergency only after obtaining the consent of the Union Cabinet. The National Emergency can be for a period of six months, but it can be extended for a further period of six months by the Parliament.
During a National Emergency, the President can suspend the operation of certain fundamental rights, and can also take any other steps which he deems necessary to meet the situation.
The National Emergency was declared in India on 26th October, 1962, following the Chinese aggression in Ladakh. The National Emergency was again declared on 25th June, 1975, by the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The National Emergency was lifted on 21st March, 1977.
Here is a brief explanation of each option:
- Article 356 provides for the imposition of President’s Rule in a State. President’s Rule can be imposed if the President is satisfied that a State Government cannot be carried on in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution.
- Article 360 provides for the declaration of a Financial Emergency. A Financial Emergency can be declared by the President if he is satisfied that the financial stability or credit of India is threatened.
- Article 370 provides for a special status to the State of Jammu and Kashmir. Article 370 was abrogated by the Government of India on 5th August, 2019.