how long must an EA wait before being passed under the Grand Lodge of India

Regulations published by the Regional Grand Lodge of Northern India specify that an interval of four weeks must pass between the conferring of two consecutive degrees. A candidate may be advanced in a shorter interval only if the Regional Grand Master grants a dispensation, but even under dispensation, a minimum gap of at least one week is required between the degrees.

In general Masonic law, the power to shorten standard probationary intervals between degrees in cases of emergency rests with the Grand Master through the exercise of his dispensation power 12. Where a jurisdiction requires a dispensation to advance a candidate earlier than the constitutionally mandated interval, the Grand Master acts as the authority on whether a candidate's circumstances constitute a genuine case of emergency 12.

Under historical and modern usage, standard degree intervals exist to ensure that an initiate achieves suitable proficiency before advancement 23. However, when unexpected circumstances arise that necessitate accelerating the process, Masonic law provides for dispensations so that a candidate is not unduly hindered 12. In jurisdictions organized into regional or district bodies, such executive authority to grant dispensations for degree intervals is exercised either directly by the Grand Master or through delegated powers vested in regional leaders, subject to the minimum limits set by the governing regulations.