Ask the ConstitutionAll articles

Article 256

Part XI — Relations between the Union and the States · Constitution of India

Article 256

Obligation of States and the Union. The executive power of every State shall be so exercised as to ensure compliance with the laws made by Parliament and any existing laws which apply in that State, and the executive power of the Union shall extend to the giving of such directions to a State as may appear to the Government of India to be necessary for that purpose.

In plain wordsState governments must carry out the laws Parliament makes, and the central government can issue directions to a state to make sure that happens. Central laws do not become optional at a state's border.
Ask a question about Article 256 →