Article 142: Supreme Court Invokes 'Complete Justice' in NEET-UG Case
Polity · Wednesday, 2 September 2026
The Supreme Court invoked Article 142 to quash all nationwide FIRs registered against protesters during the NEET-UG paper leak demonstrations. This extraordinary power allows the court to do 'complete justice' in any pending matter.
Quick highlights
- Article 142(1): Enables decrees essential for doing 'complete justice'.
- Article 142(2): Confers authority to secure witness attendance and investigate contempt.
- Plenary Power: It is inherent and cannot be restricted by general statutes.
- NEET-UG Context: Quashing FIRs against students to prevent undue career harm.
- Enforceability: Decrees under this article are enforceable throughout India.
Exam Angle
GS Paper II: Constitutional Provisions and Judicial Activism. Important for understanding the 'Complete Justice' doctrine and its limitations relative to the separation of powers.
Remember this
- Concept: Complete Justice.
- Scope: Plenary and inherent.
- Restriction: Should not override explicit statutory prohibitions (though flexible).
- Enforceability: Valid nationwide as prescribed by Parliament.
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