HA

Hrishikesh AlaseAIR 61· 2025

Question Continuation Q.13GS2GS2

Differentiate between the clemency powers of the Presidents of India and the USA. Also, critically examine the scope of clemency power in the executive.

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Main Body

Vesting of clemency powers in executive

1Infiltration of principles of separation & powers - Article 50
2Undermines judicial forces and rule of law
3May lead to political pardons. Example: recent pardons in USA
4Can lead to politicization of powers. Example: Malefide
5Lack of uniformity in the usage. Example: no standard criteria

However, there are certain benefits

1Prevents failure of judicial process. Example: disproportionate punishment
2Restructure justice rather than punitive one

President as 'Head of the State' can exercise such powers in extraordinary situations

90 words3 paragraphs

Conclusion

Clemency powers maintain an aspect of humanitarianism to judicial process & punishment Way Forward: 1. Judicial review of pardoning power for malafide 2. Develop a standard criteria for uniform use of powers 3. Can be based upon objective facts of the case

42 words

This is a continuation from previous page
Examiner score
1.1/10

Open original scan

Page 30

Topper

Hrishikesh Alase

AIR 612025

Subject & Paper

GS2GS2

Topic

Executive, Judiciary, Ministries and Pressure Groups

Executive

Executive

Writing Stats

132

Total words

3

Paragraphs

analytical

Tone