India's top legal representative, the Attorney General.
The Attorney General of India (AGI) is the highest legal advisor to the Government of India, appointed by the President under Article 76 of the Constitution. The key roles and responsibilities of the AGI include:
- Advising the Government of India on all legal matters referred by the President or government.
- Representing the Government in the Supreme Court and other courts, having the right of audience across all Indian courts in legal matters involving the government.
- Performing other legal duties assigned by the President or conferred under the Constitution or any law.
- Participation rights in Parliament include the ability to speak and take part in Lok Sabha proceedings and committees, but the Attorney General cannot vote.
The Attorney General holds office at the pleasure of the President, with no fixed term, and can be removed or can resign any time by notifying the President.
Regarding limitations, the AGI cannot advise or hold a brief against the Government of India. Cannot defend accused persons in criminal prosecutions without government permission. Cannot accept directorship in companies or corporations without prior approval from the government. Cannot advise any ministry, department, statutory organization, or public sector undertaking unless referred through the Ministry of Law and Justice. The Attorney General is not a full-time government servant and is permitted to practice privately, but should avoid conflicts of interest with government work.
The AGI enjoys the same privileges and immunities as a Member of Parliament while performing official duties. The remuneration and terms are determined by the President. The office of the Attorney General does not carry executive powers, but the advice and legal opinions provided have significant influence on government policy and law interpretation.
In summary, the Attorney General of India acts as the principal legal advisor and government representative in courts, bound by constitutional duties and significant restrictions to maintain the role’s objectivity and avoid conflicts with government interests. The AGI plays a significant role in upholding the rule of law in India.
The Attorney General of India plays a crucial role in policy-and-legislation and general-news, as they are the principal legal advisor to the Government of India, providing advice on all legal matters referred by the President or government. Their involvement in politics is evident, as they perform duties conferred under the Constitution or any law, and have the right to speak and take part in Lok Sabha proceedings and committees. However, they are subject to restrictions to maintain objectivity, such as not being able to advise or hold a brief against the Government of India, or defend accused persons in criminal prosecutions without government permission.
