Introduction
Attorney General of India Role and Reappointment: The Attorney General of India is the highest law officer of the country. Recently, President Droupadi Murmu re-appointed R. Venkataramani as the Attorney General for a fresh two-year term. This post carries immense constitutional significance as it ensures the government receives expert legal guidance.
Appointment and Qualification
The Attorney General is appointed by the President of India under Article 76 of the Constitution. The eligibility criteria require that the individual must be qualified to become a judge of the Supreme Court. This ensures that only highly experienced legal experts can hold this office.
Static GK fact: The position of Attorney General was created with the adoption of the Constitution in 1950.
Role and Functions
The Attorney General’s primary role is to advise the Union Government on legal matters. They also perform duties of a legal character assigned by the President. Additionally, they discharge functions given under the Constitution or by law. The Attorney General thus acts as the chief legal advisor to the Government of India.
Static GK fact: The Attorney General represents the Union in important cases before the Supreme Court and High Courts.
Rights and Powers
The Attorney General has the right of audience in all courts across India, meaning they can appear and be heard in any court. They also enjoy certain parliamentary rights under Article 88, which allow them to participate in discussions and speak in both Houses of Parliament, though they cannot vote.
Term and Tenure
Unlike other constitutional posts, the Attorney General holds office during the pleasure of the President. There is no fixed tenure, but the President determines the term. In the current case, R. Venkataramani’s term has been set for two years. The remuneration is also decided by the President.
Static GK Tip: Unlike the Chief Justice of India, the Attorney General does not have a fixed retirement age.
Significance of the Reappointment
The reappointment of R. Venkataramani reflects continuity in legal advisory for the Union Government. His experience in constitutional and civil law strengthens the Centre’s representation in crucial legal matters. The position plays a critical role in maintaining the balance between the executive and judiciary.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Attorney General of India Role and Reappointment:
Topic | Detail |
Current Attorney General | R. Venkataramani |
Appointed by | President of India |
Constitutional Provision | Article 76 |
Eligibility | Same as Supreme Court Judge |
Functions | Advises Union Government, legal duties assigned by President |
Right of Audience | Can appear in all courts across India |
Parliamentary Rights | Can participate in House discussions, cannot vote (Article 88) |
Tenure | Holds office during President’s pleasure |
Recent Development | Re-appointed for two-year term in 2025 |
First Attorney General of India | M.C. Setalvad |