Parliament of India – Structure, Functions & Importance
Introduction
The Parliament of India is the supreme legislative body of the country. It is responsible for making laws, debating policies, and representing the people. The Indian Parliament follows a bicameral system, meaning it has two houses – Lok Sabha (House of the People) and Rajya Sabha (Council of States).
The President of India is also an integral part of Parliament, as no bill can become a law without their approval.
Structure of Parliament
1. Lok Sabha (House of the People)
The Lok Sabha represents the people of India and is the lower house of Parliament.
✔ Total Members – 552 (maximum), but currently 543 members are elected.
✔ Elected By – Direct elections by citizens of India.
✔ Term – 5 years, unless dissolved earlier.
✔ Presided By – Speaker of the Lok Sabha.
✔ Powers – Can introduce money bills, pass laws, and remove the government through a no-confidence motion.
2. Rajya Sabha (Council of States)
The Rajya Sabha represents the states and union territories of India and is the upper house of Parliament.
✔ Total Members – 250 (maximum), but currently 245 members.
✔ Elected By – State Legislative Assemblies and President of India (for nominated members).
✔ Term – Permanent House, with one-third of members retiring every 2 years.
✔ Presided By – Vice President of India (Chairperson of Rajya Sabha).
✔ Powers – Reviews, suggests, and approves laws but cannot initiate money bills.
3. President of India
The President is an essential part of Parliament and plays a crucial role in the law-making process.
✔ Approves all bills before they become law.
✔ Can dissolve the Lok Sabha and call for elections.
✔ Can summon and prorogue Parliament sessions.
✔ Has the power to issue ordinances in case of emergencies.
Functions of the Indian Parliament
1. Legislative Functions
✔ Makes new laws, amends existing ones, and repeals outdated laws.
✔ Money bills (related to taxes and government spending) can only be introduced in Lok Sabha.
✔ Approves budgets and financial bills.
2. Executive Control
✔ The government is accountable to Parliament.
✔ Parliament can question ministers, discuss policies, and even remove the government through a no-confidence motion.
3. Financial Powers
✔ Parliament controls government spending and approves the annual Union Budget.
✔ Without Parliament’s approval, the government cannot impose or collect taxes.
4. Amending the Constitution
✔ Parliament can amend the Indian Constitution through the procedure mentioned in Article 368.
5. Judicial Powers
✔ Parliament can impeach the President, Vice President, and Supreme Court judges.
Importance of Parliament
✔ Represents Democracy – Parliament ensures citizens’ voices are heard through elected representatives.
✔ Maintains Checks & Balances – Prevents misuse of power by the government.
✔ Ensures Law & Order – By making and modifying laws as needed.
✔ Controls National Budget – Decides how the government spends public money.
Conclusion
The Parliament of India is the backbone of Indian democracy. It ensures good governance, accountability, and representation of people. With Lok Sabha representing the citizens and Rajya Sabha representing states, it maintains a balance of power in the country.
What do you think about the role of Parliament in India? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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