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UPSC MainsGeneral Studies Paper IIndian PolityPractice question

Concept and Significance of Parliament

What is Parliament? Why do we need Parliament?

WhatWhy~250 words2 min readeasy
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How to approach

Begin by defining the Parliament of India in accordance with constitutional provisions. Then, outline the core functions and significance of Parliament that necessitate its existence in a representative democracy. Conclude with a brief summary emphasizing its role in upholding democratic accountability and constitutional governance.

Model answer

285 words

Introduction

According to Article 79 of the Constitution of India, Parliament is the supreme legislative organ of the Union, comprising the President, the Council of States (Rajya Sabha), and the House of the People (Lok Sabha). It functions as the highest deliberative and representative forum in the country.

Reasons Why Parliament is Needed

Parliament plays a foundational role in the governance and democratic ethos of the nation through several essential functions:

  • Representation of the People: Parliament serves as the premier democratic forum reflecting the will, diversity, and aspirations of Indian citizens. For instance, the 106th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2023, was enacted to enhance democratic representation by reserving seats for women.
  • Legislative Function: It debates, deliberates, and enacts laws crucial for national governance, such as the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, while maintaining a constitutional separation between law-making and executive implementation.
  • Executive Accountability: Under Article 75(3), the Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha. Parliament enforces executive accountability through parliamentary devices such as Question Hour, Zero Hour, Calling Attention Motions, Adjournment Motions, and No-Confidence Motions.
  • Financial Control: Parliament functions as the custodian of the public purse. The Union Government cannot levy taxes or withdraw funds from the Consolidated Fund of India without parliamentary authorization through the passage of the Annual Financial Statement (Budget) under Article 112.
  • Constituent and Judicial Functions: It possesses constituent authority to amend the Constitution under Article 368, and exercises quasi-judicial powers to impeach or remove high constitutional functionaries, including the President, the Vice-President, and judges of the higher judiciary.

Conclusion

Parliament remains the bedrock of India's parliamentary democracy. By maintaining institutional checks and balances, enforcing executive accountability, and exercising rigorous financial oversight, it ensures the supremacy of democratic will and safeguards constitutional rights.

Key facts to remember

definition
Parliament under Article 79

Article 79 of the Constitution establishes that the Parliament of India consists of the President and two Houses: the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) and the House of the People (Lok Sabha).

scheme
The Constitution (106th Amendment) Act, 2023

Provides 33 percent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies, enhancing gender representation in the highest democratic forums.

definition
Collective Responsibility

Enshrined in Article 75(3), it mandates that the Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha, meaning the government stays in office only as long as it enjoys majority support.

Frequently asked questions

Why is the President considered an integral part of Parliament?

Although the President does not sit or take part in parliamentary proceedings, no bill passed by both Houses can become an Act without the President's assent under Article 111.

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