Introduction: Indian Parliament under Constitution
Indian Parliament under Constitution: The concept of Parliament serves as a cornerstone of Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of democracy, which entails harnessing resources for the common good of all. While Parliament finds its roots in medieval European nations, it has been integral to India’s democratic framework since its inception.
Following the first general election in 1952, both houses of Parliament were established. Notably, between the adoption of the Constitution and the general elections (1950-1952), the Constituent Assembly functioned as the provisional legislative body.
Indian Parliament under Constitution
The Parliament, the supreme legislative organ of the Union of India, embodies the principles of Parliamentary Democracy as enshrined in Articles 79-122 of the Indian Constitution. It comprises the President, Rajya Sabha (the Council of States), and Lok Sabha (House of the People).
Composition of Parliament
Article 79 stipulates the composition of the Parliament, which includes the President, Rajya Sabha, and Lok Sabha. Rajya Sabha consists of members nominated by the President and representatives of states and union territories, while Lok Sabha members are elected by the people through Universal Adult Suffrage.
The Rajya Sabha
The Rajya Sabha, or the Upper House, is a permanent body with one-third of its members retiring biennially. Members are elected by proportional representation by means of a single transferable vote, ensuring representation from states and union territories.
The Lok Sabha
Article 331 establishes the Lok Sabha, or the House of People, with a maximum of 530 members from different states and union territories. Seats are also reserved for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and the Anglo-Indian community, if necessary. Members serve a tenure of five years.
Qualification and Disqualification
Candidates for Parliament must be Indian citizens and meet age requirements specified in Article 84. Disqualification criteria outlined in Article 102 include holding an office of profit, unsound mind declaration by a court, insolvency, loss of Indian citizenship, or disqualification under parliamentary law.
Sessions of Parliament
Parliament conducts three sessions annually: the Budget Session (February-May), Monsoon Session (July-September), and Winter Session (November-December). The President can summon Parliament with no more than a six-month gap between sessions.
The President
As the head of the state and Union Executive, the President symbolizes national solidarity, unity, and integrity. The President serves a five-year term, eligible for re-election. Qualifications include Indian citizenship, minimum age, eligibility for Lok Sabha membership, and absence of an office of profit. Impeachment is initiated for violations of the Constitution.
In conclusion, Parliament stands as the embodiment of India’s democratic ideals, ensuring representation, legislation, and governance in line with constitutional principles.
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FAQs: Indian Parliament under Constitution
FAQ 1: What is the composition of the Indian Parliament?
Answer: The Indian Parliament consists of two houses: the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). The Lok Sabha is composed of members elected directly by the people of India, while the Rajya Sabha consists of members elected by the elected members of the State Legislative Assemblies.
FAQ 2: What are the qualifications required to become a member of Parliament?
Answer: To become a member of Parliament in India, one must be a citizen of India and meet certain age requirements. For the Rajya Sabha, the minimum age is 30 years, and for the Lok Sabha, it’s 25 years. Additionally, one must comply with any other qualifications prescribed by law.
FAQ 3: How are sessions of the Indian Parliament conducted?
Answer: The Indian Parliament holds three sessions in a year: the Budget Session (February to May), the Monsoon Session (July to September), and the Winter Session (November to December). The President summons Parliament for these sessions, ensuring they meet at least twice a year. Each session involves the conduct of legislative business and discussions on various national issues.
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