Correct option is D
The President of India has the constitutional power to grant pardons, reprieves, respites, remissions of punishment, or to suspend, remit, or commute the sentence of any person convicted of an offense. This authority is provided under Article 72 of the Indian Constitution. It applies to:
- Cases where the punishment is by a court-martial.
- Offenses against Union laws.
- Sentences of death.
Additional Information:
- The President exercises this power based on the advice of the Council of Ministers.
- The governor of a state has similar powers under Article 161, but these do not extend to death sentences or offenses against Union laws.
Other Options:
- Chief Justice of India: Has no role in granting pardons; the judiciary delivers judgments, not clemency.
- Attorney General: Acts as the chief legal advisor to the Government of India; no authority to pardon.
- Chief Minister: Can recommend mercy petitions to the Governor but lacks independent authority to grant pardons.
