Indian Penal Code, 1860
[55A. Definition of "appropriate Government".--In sections fifty-four and fifty-five the expression "appropriate Government" means,- (a) in cases where the sentence is a sentence of death or is for an offence against any law relating to a matter to which the executive power of the Union extends, the Central Government; and (b) in cases where the sentence (whether of death or not) is for an offence against any law relating to a matter to which the executive power of the State extends, the Government of the State within which the offender is sentenced.] 56.