'X' was addressing a seminar on the meaning of the term 'law' as provided under Article 13, Part III of the Constitution of India. 'X' explained that the meaning of the term 'law' in the Constitution of India was very comprehensive. It included ordinances, orders and even rules and regulations. 'Y' pointed out that the term 'law' in Article 13 also included custom or usage having in the territory of India the force of law, to which 'X' was not convinced. Based on the above, select the correct conclusion from the options given below :

Under Article 13(3)(a) of the Constitution of India (1950), the term 'law' is given an expansive definition to ensure broad protection of Fundamental Rights. According to this provision, 'law' explicitly includes "any Ordinance, order, bye-law, rule, regulation, notification, custom or usage having in the territory of India the force of law".

Why Option D is correct: 'Y' is entirely correct in asserting that custom or usage having the force of law is included in the constitutional definition of 'law' under Article 13.

Why the other options are incorrect:

• Option A: This option is incorrect because 'X' is wrong in rejecting the inclusion of custom. While 'X' correctly identified ordinances and regulations, their view on the non-inclusion of custom directly contradicts the bare text of Article 13(3)(a).
• Option B: This is incorrect because the view of 'Y' is constitutionally accurate; custom and usage are explicitly codified in the text of the Constitution.
• Option C: Both views cannot be correct because they are mutually exclusive regarding custom. Since 'X' refuses to accept a factual constitutional provision that 'Y' rightly points out, 'X' is incorrect.

Concluding Takeaway: When evaluating 'law' under Article 13, remember that it covers both formal state actions (ordinances, rules, orders) and socially recognized practices (customs, usages). This comprehensive scope guarantees that neither the State nor prevailing customary traditions can infringe upon Part III Fundamental Rights.