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Power of Governor to grant pardons, etc, and to suspend, remit or commute sentences in certain cases

The Governor of a State shall have the power to grant pardons, reprieves, respites or remissions of punishment or to suspend, remit or commute the sentence of any person convicted of any offence against any law relating to a matter to which the executive power of the State extends.

This is an informational reference compiled from the public-domain text of the Constitution of India. For the authoritative version and latest amendments, refer to the official text published by the Government of India. For help with a real-life situation, see the Citizen Rights Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Article 161 of the Indian Constitution say?

The Governor of a State shall have the power to grant pardons, reprieves, respites or remissions of punishment or to suspend, remit or commute the sentence of any person convicted of any offence against any law relating to a matter to which the executive power of the State extends.

Which Part of the Constitution contains Article 161?

Article 161 falls under Part VI — The States — of the Constitution of India.

Related Articles in Part VI