Which of the following writ is issued to enforce the performance of public duties by the authority ?

All India Bar Examination (AIBE) 18-XVIII Previous Year Question Papers with Answers

Practice Mode:

Which of the following writ is issued to enforce the performance of public duties by the authority ?

A: Mandamus

B: Quo warranto

C: Certiorari

D: Prohibition

The answer is: A

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Explanation

(a) Mandamus

• Mandamus is a writ issued by a court to a public authority, government body, or inferior tribunal, commanding them to perform a public duty that they are legally obligated to do.

• It literally means “we command”.

• It cannot be issued against private individuals, the President, or Governors, but applies to statutory and constitutional authorities.

Other Writs (for clarity)

• Quo warranto → Questions the legality of a person’s claim to hold a public office.

• Certiorari → Issued to quash the order of a lower court or tribunal.

• Prohibition → Issued to prevent a lower court or tribunal from exceeding its jurisdiction.