Question

Who has been given the power to grant pardon or to commute a death sentence ?

• A. Prime Minister
• B. President
• C. Speaker
• D. Vice President

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

• In the context of the powers of government officials, it's crucial to understand the specific roles and responsibilities allocated to each position. When it comes to granting a pardon or commuting a death sentence, this authority is enshrined in the constitutional powers conferred upon the President of a country.
• The President, as per the laws and jurisdictional authority of several nations, including India and the United States, holds the power to pardon or commute sentences, including capital punishment (death penalty). This power is a part of the judiciary functions designated to the President, often referred to as 'clemency powers'.
• The rationale behind this authority involves providing a check on legal processes, thereby ensuring justice and humanitarian considerations are maintained in the judicial system. The power of pardon allows the President to make final decisions on certain judicial matters, thereby offering an essential balance between law enforcement and justice.
• The Prime Minister, Speaker, and Vice President do not possess this specific judicial power of granting pardons or commuting sentences. Their roles, though vital, are defined differently within the governmental structure.

Hence, the responsibility to grant a pardon or to commute a death sentence rests with the President.