Who appoints the Attorney General of India?

The correct answer is President of India.

Key Points

• The Attorney General of India is appointed by the President of India, as per Article 76(1) of the Constitution of India.
• The Attorney General is the highest law officer in the country and serves as the chief legal advisor to the Government of India.
• The President appoints the Attorney General on the advice of the Union Council of Ministers, typically led by the Prime Minister.
• The Attorney General must be a person qualified to be appointed as a Judge of the Supreme Court, i.e., they must have been a judge of a High Court for at least 5 years, an advocate of a High Court for 10 years, or an eminent jurist in the President's opinion.
• The term of the Attorney General is not fixed by the Constitution, and they hold office during the pleasure of the President.

Additional Information

• Role and Responsibilities of the Attorney General:
  • Advises the Government of India on legal matters and performs other legal duties assigned by the President.
  • Represents the Government in cases before the Supreme Court and High Courts when required.
  • Has the right to participate in parliamentary proceedings without voting rights.
• Attorney General vs. Solicitor General:
  • The Solicitor General of India assists the Attorney General but is not a constitutional post.
  • Both roles involve representing the Government of India in legal matters, but the Attorney General holds the highest rank among law officers.
• Limitations of the Attorney General:
  • Cannot advise private clients or defend private parties in legal matters.
  • Must not act against the interests of the Government of India.
• Historical Context:
  • The position of Attorney General was established in 1950 with the adoption of the Constitution of India.
  • All appointments are guided by constitutional provisions to ensure legal uniformity and government accountability.