Q 3. भारत और संयुक्त राज्य अमेरिका में क्षमा करने की राष्ट्रपति की शक्ति की तुलना कीजिए तथा विषमताओं को स्पष्ट कीजिए। क्या दोनों देशों में इसकी कोई सीमाएँ हैं? ‘अग्रिम माफी’ क्या होती है? (UPSC 2024,10 Marks,150 Words)

Compare and contrast the President’s power to pardon in India and in the USA. Are there any limits to it in both the countries? What are ‘preemptive pardons’?

प्रस्तावना

The President of India exercises the power to pardon under Article 72, while the U.S. President does so under Article II, Section 2 of the Constitution. In India, this power is subject to judicial review, whereas in the USA, it is largely unchecked. Preemptive pardons allow the U.S. President to pardon individuals before charges are filed. Legal scholar Alexander Hamilton emphasized the necessity of this power for justice and mercy, highlighting its potential for abuse.

Explanation

Comparison of Pardon Powers

Limits to Pardon Powers

Preemptive Pardons

निष्कर्ष

In both India and the USA, the President holds the power to pardon, but with distinct limitations. In India, the President acts on the advice of the Council of Ministers, while in the USA, the President exercises this power independently. Both countries lack explicit constitutional limits, but judicial review can apply. Preemptive pardons are issued before conviction. As Alexander Hamilton noted, pardons can be a tool for "tranquility of the commonwealth," emphasizing their role in justice and mercy.