Question

When and how does the president exercise his discretionary powers?

Answer 1

Here are the circumstances where the president uses his discretionary powers:
1) Appointment of Prime Minister in a situation where no single party commands the clear support of the majority of the Lok Sabha members and there is a hung Parliament.
2) Appointment of a prime minister in case of sudden death when the ruling legislature party is unable to meet immediately to elect a leader.
3) When the ruling party who has lost majority support in the lok Sabha or when a vote of no confidence may have been passed against it, recommends the president to dissolve the Lok Sabha.
4) The president can dismiss ministers in case the council of minister loses the confidence of the house but refuses to resign.

Answer 2

When the ruling party has lost majority support in lok sabha or when a vote of no confidence may have been passed.