With reference to the Indian polity, consider the following statements : I. An Ordinance can amend any Central Act. II. An Ordinance can abridge a Fundamental Right. III. An Ordinance can come into effect from a back date. Which of the statements given above are correct?
Explanation
Option (C) is correct because an Ordinance has the same force and effect as an Act of Parliament, allowing it to amend or repeal existing laws and operate retrospectively (from a back date). Statement II is incorrect because, under Article 13, an Ordinance is considered "law" and is subject to the same constitutional limitations as a regular Act, meaning it cannot abridge or take away Fundamental Rights. This question tests the **Ordinance-making power of the President and Governor (Articles 123 and 213)** and its legal parity with parliamentary legislation.