Delegated Legislation
Skeleton Acts and Executive Flesh
PART I — THE CONCEPT
MEANING
Skeleton & Flesh
- Parliament passes the broad 'Parent Act' (Skeleton).
- Executive fills in the details (Flesh).
- Saves legislative time.
- Allows expert input for technical matters.
FORMS
Rules & Regulations
- **Rules:** Made by ministries/departments.
- **Regulations:** Made by statutory boards/authorities.
- **Bylaws:** Made by municipal bodies.
- **Orders/Notifications:** For specific execution.
PART II — SAFEGUARDS & CONTROL
LEGISLATIVE CHECK
Parliamentary Control
- Rules must be "laid on the table" of the House.
- Committee on Subordinate Legislation reviews them.
- Ensures powers are not misused or exceeded.
- Parliament retains power to modify or annul rules.
JUDICIAL CHECK
Doctrine of Ultra Vires
- "Beyond the powers".
- If a Rule conflicts with the Parent Act, it is void.
- If the Parent Act conflicts with the Constitution, both are void.
- Courts strike down arbitrary/unreasonable rules.
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