Ordinances Explained: How India Makes Law Without Parliament

An ordinance is a temporary law the President or Governor signs when the legislature isn't in session — it has the same force as an Act.

It must be approved by both Houses within 6 weeks of them reassembling, giving it a maximum life of about 6 months and 6 weeks.

The Cabinet, not the President, actually decides — the President's role is largely on the advice of the Council of Ministers.

The Supreme Court has called repeatedly re-promulgating the same ordinance a 'fraud on the Constitution'.

Ordinances can't amend the Constitution and are open to judicial review like any law.