Constitutional text

(1) Subject to the provisions of this Constitution, Parliament may make laws for the whole or any part of the territory of India, and the Legislature of a State may make laws for the whole or any part of the State. (2) No law made by Parliament shall be deemed to be invalid on the ground that it would have extra-territorial operation.

Source: Constitution of India, as published by the Ministry of Law and Justice.

History and context

The article is foundational to India's federal division of legislative power. Combined with Article 246 (the three legislative lists) and Article 248 (residuary power with Parliament), it defines who can make what law and where. The extra-territorial operation clause (clause 2) allows Parliament to pass laws that have effect outside India, important for laws on Indian citizens abroad, international trade, and maritime matters.

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Last reviewed: 3 July 2026