Parliament

PRERNA FOR IAS

Parliament

1. What is Parliament?

The Parliament of India is the supreme legislative body of the country. Under Article 79 of the Constitution, it consists of the President, the Rajya Sabha (Council of States), and the Lok Sabha (House of the People). Parliament makes laws, discusses national issues, approves government policies, and ensures democratic governance. It acts as the voice of the people and the states at the national level. Through debates, discussions, and legislative procedures, Parliament holds the government accountable. It is one of the most important pillars of Indian democracy and plays a crucial role in nation-building and governance.

2. Structure of Parliament (Article 79)

Article 79 of the Indian Constitution provides for a bicameral Parliament consisting of the President, Rajya Sabha, and Lok Sabha. The President is an integral part of Parliament and gives assent to bills before they become laws. The Rajya Sabha represents the states and union territories, while the Lok Sabha represents the people of India directly. This structure ensures balanced representation of both citizens and states in the legislative process. The bicameral system promotes detailed scrutiny of legislation, prevents hasty lawmaking, and strengthens democratic governance by allowing broader participation in national decision-making.

3. Lok Sabha (House of the People)

The Lok Sabha is the lower house of Parliament and represents the people of India. Members are directly elected by citizens through universal adult franchise. The maximum strength of the Lok Sabha is 552 members, while the current strength is 543 elected members. Its normal term is five years unless dissolved earlier. The Lok Sabha plays a dominant role in lawmaking, especially regarding financial matters and Money Bills. The Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha. The Speaker presides over its proceedings and ensures smooth functioning of debates, discussions, and legislative business.

4. Rajya Sabha (Council of States)

The Rajya Sabha is the upper house of Parliament and represents the states and union territories. It is a permanent body and cannot be dissolved. The maximum strength of the Rajya Sabha is 250 members, while the present strength is 245. Members are elected indirectly by elected members of State Legislative Assemblies. One-third of its members retire every two years, ensuring continuity. The Vice-President of India serves as its ex-officio Chairman. Rajya Sabha reviews legislation, represents state interests, and contributes to informed debate and policy discussions. It acts as a revising chamber in the legislative process.

5. Functions of Parliament

Parliament performs several important functions in a democratic system. Its legislative function involves making, amending, and repealing laws. Through financial functions, it approves the budget, taxation proposals, and government expenditure. Parliament exercises executive control by questioning ministers and holding the government accountable. It also performs representative functions by voicing public concerns and aspirations. Constitutional functions include amending the Constitution and participating in important elections. Parliament additionally serves as a forum for discussion on national and international issues. Through these responsibilities, it ensures transparency, accountability, and effective governance in the country.

6. Law-Making Process (How a Bill Becomes a Law)

A bill is first introduced in either House of Parliament, except a Money Bill. It undergoes the First Reading, followed by detailed discussion during the Second Reading. The bill may be referred to a committee for examination. After debate and voting, it is passed by one House and sent to the other House for approval. Once both Houses pass the bill, it is sent to the President for assent. After receiving Presidential approval, the bill becomes an Act of Parliament. This process ensures thorough scrutiny, democratic debate, and legal validity before a law comes into force.

7. Money Bill

A Money Bill deals exclusively with taxation, borrowing, expenditure, and other financial matters. It can be introduced only in the Lok Sabha and only with the President’s recommendation. The Speaker of the Lok Sabha certifies whether a bill is a Money Bill. After passing in the Lok Sabha, it is sent to the Rajya Sabha, which can only make recommendations within fourteen days. The Lok Sabha may accept or reject these recommendations. The Rajya Sabha cannot reject or amend a Money Bill. This procedure ensures efficient handling of financial legislation and government finances.

8. Ordinary Bill

An Ordinary Bill deals with matters other than financial issues. It can be introduced in either the Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha. Both Houses must pass the bill in identical form before it is sent to the President for assent. If disagreements arise, a Joint Sitting of Parliament may be called under certain circumstances. Unlike a Money Bill, both Houses enjoy equal powers regarding Ordinary Bills. These bills cover a wide range of subjects including administration, education, health, and social welfare. Once approved by the President, an Ordinary Bill becomes law and is enforceable throughout India.

9. Important Parliamentary Officials

Several constitutional authorities ensure the smooth functioning of Parliament. The President is an integral part of Parliament and gives assent to bills. The Vice-President serves as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. The Speaker presides over the Lok Sabha and maintains order during proceedings. The Deputy Speaker assists the Speaker in the Lok Sabha. The Deputy Chairman performs similar duties in the Rajya Sabha. The Prime Minister leads the government and coordinates legislative business. The Leader of Opposition represents the largest opposition party and plays an important role in democratic accountability and constructive criticism of government policies.

10. Qualifications of Members of Parliament

To become a Member of Parliament, a person must be a citizen of India and satisfy qualifications prescribed by the Constitution and election laws. A candidate for Lok Sabha must be at least 25 years old, while a Rajya Sabha candidate must be at least 30 years old. The person should not hold an office of profit under the government and must possess sound mental health. Individuals disqualified under laws relating to corruption, criminal convictions, or electoral malpractice cannot contest elections. These qualifications ensure that capable and responsible individuals represent citizens in Parliament.

11. Sessions, Adjournment, Prorogation and Dissolution

Parliament functions through regular sessions convened by the President. A session refers to the period between the first and last sitting of Parliament. Adjournment temporarily suspends a sitting or meeting of a House. Prorogation ends a session and is ordered by the President. Dissolution applies only to the Lok Sabha and terminates its existence before a new election. India generally has three parliamentary sessions each year: Budget Session, Monsoon Session, and Winter Session. These procedures ensure orderly functioning of Parliament while providing adequate opportunities for lawmaking, debate, and oversight of government activities.

12. Parliament and Democracy

Parliament is the cornerstone of Indian democracy. It provides a platform where elected representatives discuss issues affecting the nation and formulate policies for public welfare. Through debates, questioning of ministers, and committee work, Parliament ensures government accountability and transparency. It represents the diverse interests of India’s population and safeguards democratic values. Parliament also protects constitutional principles and fundamental rights through legislation and oversight. Effective parliamentary functioning strengthens public trust in democratic institutions and promotes inclusive development. Therefore, Parliament serves as the central institution through which the will of the people is translated into governance and law.