GK Question

polity medium mcq

The doctrine of 'ultra vires' in administrative law means that administrative actions must:

  1. Be approved by Parliament before implementation
  2. Be within the legal authority granted by statute or Constitution
  3. Be reviewed by Supreme Court before execution
  4. Be published in Official Gazette

Answer: Be within the legal authority granted by statute or Constitution

Ultra vires (Latin: 'beyond powers'): Core principle of administrative law that executive actions must be within legal authority granted by statute or Constitution. If action exceeds authority, courts can declare it void. Ensures rule of law: executive cannot act arbitrarily; must have legal basis for decisions affecting citizens' rights. Foundation of judicial review of administrative action in India.

Topic Administrative Law - Doctrine of Ultra Vires
Exam Relevance Administrative law principle frequently asked in UPSC and Judiciary exams