Functions Performed by administrative authorities
Functions Performed by Administrative Authorities: Detailed Explanation
Introduction
Administrative authorities are essential organs of government responsible for the implementation and enforcement of laws, policies, and regulations. They perform a wide range of functions to ensure efficient governance, public welfare, and the rule of law.
The functions of administrative authorities broadly fall into the following categories:
Rule-making (Legislative or Quasi-Legislative) Functions
Adjudicatory (Quasi-Judicial) Functions
Executive Functions
Discretionary Functions
Ministerial Functions
Investigative Functions
1. Rule-Making (Legislative or Quasi-Legislative) Functions
Administrative agencies make rules, regulations, and orders that have the force of law.
These rules help in the detailed implementation of statutes passed by the legislature.
Example: Environmental agencies making pollution control regulations.
2. Adjudicatory (Quasi-Judicial) Functions
Agencies resolve disputes involving rights, duties, or privileges.
They conduct hearings, evaluate evidence, and pass binding decisions.
Example: Labour tribunals resolving industrial disputes.
3. Executive Functions
Enforcement and administration of laws and policies.
Implementation of government programs.
Example: Tax collection by revenue departments.
4. Discretionary Functions
Authorities exercise discretion within legal limits to decide on matters where the law does not prescribe a fixed course.
Example: Granting licenses or permits.
5. Ministerial Functions
Routine, procedural acts with no element of discretion.
Example: Issuing notices or receiving applications.
6. Investigative Functions
Conduct inquiries or investigations to gather facts before taking decisions.
Example: Anti-corruption agencies investigating complaints.
Important Case Law Explaining Functions of Administrative Authorities
1. Union of India v. Delhi High Court Bar Association, AIR 2002 SC 2945
Facts:
The Supreme Court examined the rule-making power of administrative authorities under statutes.
Holding:
The Court held that rule-making is a delegated legislative function and must comply with the enabling statute and principles of fairness.
Significance:
Clarifies the scope and limits of quasi-legislative functions.
Emphasizes procedural fairness and adherence to statutory purpose.
2. A.K. Kraipak v. Union of India, AIR 1970 SC 150
Facts:
The government authority made decisions affecting rights without proper hearing.
Holding:
The Court held that quasi-judicial functions require adherence to principles of natural justice (fair hearing, absence of bias).
Significance:
Defines requirements for quasi-judicial functions.
Administrative authorities must ensure procedural fairness.
3. State of Bihar v. Kameshwar Singh, AIR 1952 SC 252
Facts:
The government exercised discretionary powers in granting or withholding certain benefits.
Holding:
The Court held that discretion must be exercised reasonably and in good faith.
Significance:
Sets the standard for discretionary functions.
Prevents arbitrary or mala fide use of administrative discretion.
4. Ramana Dayaram Shetty v. International Airport Authority of India, AIR 1979 SC 1628
Facts:
The Airport Authority rejected tenders without following fair procedures.
Holding:
The Court held that authorities performing executive and discretionary functions must act fairly and transparently.
Significance:
Stresses fairness and transparency in administrative decision-making.
Applies to both executive and discretionary functions.
5. Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India, AIR 1978 SC 597
Facts:
The government detained the petitioner without giving proper reasons or opportunity to be heard.
Holding:
The Court expanded the scope of procedural fairness even in executive decisions affecting fundamental rights.
Significance:
Extends natural justice principles to executive functions where rights are affected.
Administrative authorities must ensure due process.
Summary Table of Functions and Case Law
| Function Type | Case | Key Principle | Impact on Administrative Law |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rule-Making (Quasi-Legislative) | Union of India v. Delhi HC Bar | Delegated legislative power must follow statute | Limits and procedural requirements on rule-making |
| Adjudicatory (Quasi-Judicial) | A.K. Kraipak v. Union of India | Natural justice mandatory in adjudication | Fair hearing and absence of bias |
| Discretionary Functions | State of Bihar v. Kameshwar Singh | Reasonable and good faith exercise of discretion | Prevents arbitrariness in discretion |
| Executive Functions | Ramana Shetty v. Airport Authority | Fairness and transparency in executive acts | Applies natural justice to executive decisions |
| Executive and Fundamental Rights | Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India | Due process in executive decisions | Expands procedural fairness under Article 21 |
Conclusion
Administrative authorities perform a diverse range of functions, from rule-making to adjudication and enforcement. Judicial pronouncements emphasize:
Adherence to statutory limits
Observance of natural justice and procedural fairness
Reasonableness and transparency in discretion
Protection of fundamental rights even in executive acts
These principles ensure that administrative actions are lawful, fair, and accountable, promoting good governance.
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