A Writ of Prohibition is an order issued by the Supreme Court or High Courts to :

1. A. a government officer prohibiting him from taking a particular action.
2. B. the Parliament/ Legislative Assembly to pass a law on Prohibition.
3. C. the lower court prohibiting continuation of proceedings in a case.
4. D. the Government prohibiting it from following an unconstitutional policy.

Answer: C

Explanation

A Writ of Prohibition is issued by a higher court (Supreme Court or High Courts) to a lower court, tribunal, or quasi-judicial authority. Its purpose is to prevent the lower body from exceeding its jurisdiction or continuing proceedings in a case where it lacks authority. It is a preventive writ, directing inactivity, and cannot be issued against administrative authorities, legislative bodies, or private individuals. This question directly tests fundamental concepts of Indian constitutional law, specifically the writ jurisdiction of higher courts.