Article 79 — what does it state?

There shall be a Parliament for the Union, which shall consist of the PRESIDENT and TWO HOUSES — the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) and the House of the People (Lok Sabha).

What is the maximum strength of the Lok Sabha as per the Constitution?

550 members — comprising up to 530 from States and up to 20 from Union Territories. (Earlier maximum was 552 with 2 Anglo-Indians; 104th Amendment, 2019, abolished Anglo-Indian nomination.)

Which amendment abolished the Anglo-Indian community nomination to Lok Sabha?

104th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2019.

What is the maximum strength of the Rajya Sabha?

250 members — 238 representatives of States and Union Territories (elected indirectly by State Legislative Assemblies via STV) + 12 nominated by the President.

Are nominated Rajya Sabha members allowed to vote in Presidential elections?

NO. Nominated members do NOT participate in the election of the President (Article 54).

Term of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha?

Lok Sabha: 5 years (can be DISSOLVED earlier by the President; can be EXTENDED by 1 year at a time during Emergency under Art 352, but not beyond 6 months after the Emergency ceases). Rajya Sabha: PERMANENT (cannot be dissolved). 1/3rd of members retire every 2 years; each member's term is 6 years.

What is the duration of an MP's term in each House?

Lok Sabha MP: 5 years (or until LS is dissolved). Rajya Sabha MP: 6 years.

Qualifications to be a Member of Parliament? (Article 84)

(a) Citizen of India. (b) For Rajya Sabha: at least 30 years of age. For Lok Sabha: at least 25 years of age. (c) Other qualifications prescribed by Parliament — including being registered as an elector in any constituency.

Disqualifications for MP under Article 102?

(1) Holds an OFFICE OF PROFIT under Government (other than as Minister, etc.). (2) Of UNSOUND MIND (declared by court). (3) UNDISCHARGED INSOLVENT. (4) Not a citizen / has acquired foreign citizenship. (5) Disqualified under any law made by Parliament. (6) [10th Schedule] Disqualified on grounds of DEFECTION.

Anti-Defection Law — which Schedule and which Amendment?

Tenth Schedule, added by the 52nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1985.

What did the 91st Amendment change in the Anti-Defection Law?

DELETED the 'split' exemption (1/3rd defection rule). Now ONLY a 'merger' (2/3rd of original party joining another party) is exempted from disqualification.

Speaker of Lok Sabha — appointment, tenure?

Elected by Lok Sabha from among its members. Holds office during the term of LS, but vacates earlier if: (a) ceases to be MP, (b) resigns to Deputy Speaker, (c) is removed by an effective majority resolution (14 days' notice required). Continues in office even after dissolution till the new LS meets.

Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha — what is unique about the post?

Elected by Lok Sabha. By convention (since 1990), the Deputy Speaker comes from the Opposition party. Has same powers as the Speaker when presiding. Holds office until LS dissolution unless removed/resigns.

Chairman and Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha?

CHAIRMAN: Vice-President of India (ex-officio, Art 64). DEPUTY CHAIRMAN: Elected by Rajya Sabha from among its members. Both presiding officers do NOT vote in the first instance — they exercise a CASTING VOTE in case of equality.

How many sessions of Parliament are there in a year?

Constitutionally: AT LEAST 2 sessions per year, and not more than 6 months should elapse between two sessions (Article 85). Conventionally: 3 sessions — Budget (Feb–May), Monsoon (Jul–Sep), Winter (Nov–Dec).

What is the difference between Adjournment, Adjournment sine die, Prorogation, and Dissolution?

ADJOURNMENT: Suspends sitting for short time (hours/days). Decided by Speaker/Chairman. ADJOURNMENT SINE DIE: Ends a sitting without fixing a future date — done by Speaker. PROROGATION: Ends the entire SESSION. Done by the President. Pending bills do NOT lapse. DISSOLUTION: Ends the LIFE of the Lok Sabha. Done by the President. All pending bills (except those originating in RS and not passed in LS, and bills passed by both houses awaiting assent) LAPSE.

What is QUORUM for either House?

1/10th of the TOTAL membership of that House (including the presiding officer).

Lame Duck Session — what is it?

The session of Lok Sabha held AFTER a general election but BEFORE the new LS is constituted, attended by the outgoing members who have lost their re-election (the 'lame ducks').

Question Hour and Zero Hour — what's the difference?

QUESTION HOUR: First hour of every sitting. MPs ask questions. Three types: (a) STARRED — oral answer + supplementaries (max 20 per day in LS). (b) UNSTARRED — written answer, no supplementaries. (c) SHORT NOTICE — questions of urgent public importance with less than 10 days' notice. ZERO HOUR: An Indian innovation. Begins immediately after Question Hour (12 noon to 1 pm). MPs raise issues without prior notice. Not mentioned in Rules of Procedure or Constitution.

Adjournment Motion vs Calling Attention Motion?

ADJOURNMENT MOTION: Drawn attention to a definite matter of urgent public importance. If admitted, sets aside the day's regular business. NOT permitted in Rajya Sabha. Needs at least 50 MPs' support. CALLING ATTENTION MOTION: An Indian innovation (1954). MP can call the Minister's attention to a matter of urgent public importance. Minister makes a statement; brief discussion permitted. Available in both Houses.

No-confidence Motion — what is it? Who moves it?

A motion against the entire COUNCIL OF MINISTERS, not against an individual Minister. Can be moved ONLY in the LOK SABHA (RS has no power). Needs at least 50 MPs' support to be admitted. If passed by majority, the entire Council of Ministers must resign.

Censure Motion vs No-Confidence Motion?

NO-CONFIDENCE: Against the entire Council of Ministers; if passed, forces resignation. CENSURE: Can be against an individual Minister or the whole Council; expresses disapproval; if passed, does NOT force resignation. Reasons must be stated for censure (not for no-confidence).

What is a MONEY BILL? (Article 110)

A Bill that contains ONLY provisions dealing with ALL or ANY of: (a) imposition/abolition/alteration/regulation of tax; (b) borrowing of money by GoI; (c) custody/withdrawal from Consolidated Fund / Contingency Fund of India; (d) appropriation of moneys out of Consolidated Fund; (e) declaration of any expenditure 'charged' on Consolidated Fund; (f) receipt of money on Consolidated Fund or audit of Union/State accounts; (g) any matter incidental to above.

Procedure for Money Bills — special rules?

(1) Can be introduced ONLY in LOK SABHA (Art 109). (2) Only on the President's RECOMMENDATION (Art 117). (3) After LS passes, sent to RS — RS must return within 14 DAYS with recommendations (LS may accept or reject). (4) If RS doesn't return in 14 days, deemed passed by both houses. (5) President can ASSENT or WITHHOLD assent — but CANNOT return for reconsideration.

Money Bill vs Financial Bill — what's the difference?

MONEY BILL (Art 110): Deals ONLY with matters in Art 110(1)(a)-(g). Speaker certifies. RS has only recommending role. FINANCIAL BILL: Two categories. (1) Financial Bill Cat I (Art 117(1)): Contains any of Art 110 matters AND other matters. Like Money Bill: needs President's recommendation, introduced in LS only. UNLIKE Money Bill: RS has equal powers. (2) Financial Bill Cat II (Art 117(3)): Involves expenditure from Consolidated Fund but no Art 110 matters. Treated as ORDINARY bill (can originate in either House), but needs President's recommendation for passing.

Joint Sitting of Parliament — Article 108?

Summoned by the PRESIDENT to resolve a deadlock between LS and RS over a NON-MONEY ORDINARY BILL — when: (a) one House rejects the bill, OR (b) Houses disagree on amendments, OR (c) more than 6 months elapse without the other House's action. Speaker of Lok Sabha presides. Decision is by SIMPLE MAJORITY of those present and voting.

How many joint sittings have been held in Indian Parliament so far?

THREE joint sittings: (1) Dowry Prohibition Bill, 1961 (President Rajendra Prasad). (2) Banking Service Commission (Repeal) Bill, 1977. (3) Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA), 2002.

Constitutional Amendment Bill — procedure?

Article 368: Bill can be introduced in either House. Must be passed by EACH House SEPARATELY by SPECIAL MAJORITY — 2/3rd of members present and voting AND a MAJORITY OF TOTAL MEMBERSHIP. NO JOINT SITTING. President MUST give assent (24th Amendment, 1971). Some amendments require ADDITIONAL ratification by half the State Legislatures (federal subjects).

Which provisions require ratification by State Legislatures for amendment?

(1) Election of the President (Arts 54, 55). (2) Extent of Executive power of Union/States (Arts 73, 162). (3) Articles related to Supreme Court / High Courts. (4) Distribution of legislative powers between Centre and States (7th Schedule). (5) Representation of States in Parliament (Articles 80, 81). (6) Article 368 itself. (7) Goods and Services Tax provisions (101st Amendment).

What is the difference between Cut Motions: Policy Cut, Economy Cut, and Token Cut?

All are reductions in demands for grants. POLICY CUT: 'Reduce demand to Re. 1' — disapproves the policy underlying the demand. ECONOMY CUT: Reduces demand by a specified amount — represents the economy that can be effected. TOKEN CUT: 'Reduce demand by Rs. 100' — to ventilate a specific grievance.

Vote on Account vs Vote of Credit vs Exceptional Grant?

VOTE ON ACCOUNT (Art 116): Advance grant for part of the year (usually 2 months) pending passage of full budget. VOTE OF CREDIT: Demand for unexpected, urgent expenditure (war, natural calamity) where details cannot be specified. EXCEPTIONAL GRANT: For a special purpose forming no part of the regular service of any year.

Budget — constitutional name and procedure?

Constitutional name: ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT (Article 112). Stages: (1) Presentation by Finance Minister (1 February since 2017). (2) General discussion. (3) Scrutiny by Departmentally-Related Standing Committees. (4) Voting on Demands for Grants. (5) Passing of Appropriation Bill. (6) Passing of Finance Bill.

Charged Expenditure vs Voted Expenditure?

CHARGED on Consolidated Fund (Art 112(3)): Cannot be voted; only DISCUSSED. Includes: salaries of President, Speaker/Deputy Speaker, judges of SC/HCs, CAG; debt charges; pensions; sums to satisfy court judgments. VOTED expenditure: Submitted to LS for VOTING in form of Demands for Grants.

Public Accounts Committee (PAC) — composition, function?

Established 1921. 22 members (15 LS + 7 RS). Tenure: 1 year. Chairman: from OPPOSITION since 1967 (convention). Function: examines APPROPRIATION ACCOUNTS and CAG REPORTS to ensure expenditure was: (a) authorized, (b) used for authorized purpose, (c) within authorized limits.

Estimates Committee — composition, function?

Established 1950. 30 members — ALL from LOK SABHA (no RS members). Tenure: 1 year. Chairman: from RULING PARTY. Function: examines BUDGET ESTIMATES to suggest economies, alternative policies, and improvements in administration. Called the 'Continuous Economy Committee'.

Committee on Public Undertakings (COPU) — composition?

Established 1964. 22 members (15 LS + 7 RS). Tenure: 1 year. Examines reports/accounts of public sector undertakings.

Departmentally Related Standing Committees (DRSCs) — what are they?

24 standing committees, established 1993 (16 in 1993, expanded to 24 in 2004). 31 members each (21 LS + 10 RS). Cover all Ministries/Departments. Examine: (a) Demands for Grants, (b) Bills referred to them, (c) Annual Reports, (d) Long-term policy documents.

Privileges of Parliament — Article 105?

(1) FREEDOM OF SPEECH in Parliament — no MP shall be liable to court proceedings for anything said or any vote given in Parliament/Committee. (2) FREEDOM OF PUBLICATION — no liability for publication of reports/proceedings under authority of either House. (3) Right to publish proceedings; exclusion of strangers; punishment for breach of privilege.

How many Departmentally Related Standing Committees (DRSCs) are there?

24 (since 2004). Originally 17 (1993), then 24.

Article 100 — Voting in Parliament.

(1) Save as otherwise provided, all questions are determined by a MAJORITY of votes of those present and voting (excluding presiding officer). (2) Presiding officer DOES NOT VOTE in the first instance — exercises a CASTING VOTE in case of equality. (3) Quorum: 1/10th of total membership. (4) Vacancies do not invalidate proceedings.

Article 105 vs Article 194?

Article 105: Privileges of Parliament and its members/Committees. Article 194: Privileges of State Legislatures and their members/Committees. Substantively identical.

Lok Sabha vs Rajya Sabha — special powers of each?

LOK SABHA exclusive: (1) Money Bills introduction. (2) No-confidence motion. (3) Approval of removal of Council of Ministers. (4) Original jurisdiction over financial matters. RAJYA SABHA exclusive: (1) Authorize Parliament to legislate on State List subjects (Art 249). (2) Authorize creation of new All-India Services (Art 312). (3) Initiation of resolution to remove Vice-President.

What is a 'Whip' in parliamentary practice?

A whip is an internal party direction to MPs/MLAs of that party to vote in a specific way on a particular issue. Defying a 3-line whip can attract anti-defection disqualification (Tenth Schedule).

Aspect of Parliament: 'Discontinuity' principle vs 'Resumption' principle?

INDIAN system follows 'PRINCIPLE OF DISCONTINUITY' — bills pending in Lok Sabha LAPSE on its dissolution. EXCEPTIONS: (a) bill passed by RS pending in LS does NOT lapse (RS being permanent), (b) bill awaiting assent of President does NOT lapse, (c) bill returned by President for reconsideration does NOT lapse.

Public Bills vs Private Member's Bills?

PUBLIC (GOVERNMENT) BILLS: Introduced by a Minister. Reflects government policy. PRIVATE MEMBER'S BILLS: Introduced by an MP who is not a Minister. Reserved time slot (Friday afternoons in LS). Most do NOT pass — only 14 PMBs have become law in independent India (last in 1970).

Address by President — Articles 86 and 87.

Article 86: President can ADDRESS either House at any time and can send messages. Article 87: President MUST address both Houses TOGETHER at the (a) FIRST session after each general election, and (b) FIRST session of each year.

Salary of MPs — how is it fixed?

By PARLIAMENT itself, by law (Article 106). Currently governed by the Salary, Allowances and Pension of Members of Parliament Act, 1954 (regularly amended).

Article 122 — what does it provide?

(1) The validity of any proceedings in Parliament shall not be called in question on the ground of any alleged irregularity of procedure. (2) Officers/Members of Parliament with powers to regulate procedure are NOT subject to court jurisdiction in respect of those powers.

How many sittings does Lok Sabha typically have in a year?

Around 70–75 sittings on average in recent years.

What is the 'sub judice rule' in Parliament?

Conventionally, MPs cannot raise issues that are pending before a court of law. This is a self-imposed restraint to avoid interfering with the judicial process — not a constitutional bar.

Public deck

Indian Parliament: Lok Sabha & Rajya Sabha (Articles 79–122)

Composition, leadership, sessions, types of bills, parliamentary procedure, privileges, committees, and anti-defection law for the Indian Parliament.

Author: by NeverCram Editorial
Cards: 50 cards
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Published: Published Apr 25, 2026

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All cards (50)

#1
Front
Article 79 — what does it state?
Back
There shall be a Parliament for the Union, which shall consist of the PRESIDENT and TWO HOUSES — the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) and the House of the People (Lok Sabha).
Explanation
The Indian Parliament is bicameral. The President is an integral part of Parliament.
#2
Front
What is the maximum strength of the Lok Sabha as per the Constitution?
Back
550 members — comprising up to 530 from States and up to 20 from Union Territories. (Earlier maximum was 552 with 2 Anglo-Indians; 104th Amendment, 2019, abolished Anglo-Indian nomination.)
Explanation
Current actual strength: 543 elected members.
#3
Front
Which amendment abolished the Anglo-Indian community nomination to Lok Sabha?
Back
104th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2019.
Explanation
Before this, Article 331 allowed the President to nominate up to 2 members of the Anglo-Indian community to the LS if not adequately represented. The 104th Amendment also extended SC/ST reservation in LS and State Assemblies for another 10 years (till 25 January 2030).
#4
Front
What is the maximum strength of the Rajya Sabha?
Back
250 members — 238 representatives of States and Union Territories (elected indirectly by State Legislative Assemblies via STV) + 12 nominated by the President.
Explanation
Current strength: 245 (233 elected + 12 nominated). The 12 nominated have special knowledge in literature, science, art, and social service.
#5
Front
Are nominated Rajya Sabha members allowed to vote in Presidential elections?
Back
NO. Nominated members do NOT participate in the election of the President (Article 54).
Explanation
BUT they DO participate in: Vice-Presidential election (Art 66), all other parliamentary votes including impeachment of the President.
#6
Front
Term of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha?
Back
Lok Sabha: 5 years (can be DISSOLVED earlier by the President; can be EXTENDED by 1 year at a time during Emergency under Art 352, but not beyond 6 months after the Emergency ceases). Rajya Sabha: PERMANENT (cannot be dissolved). 1/3rd of members retire every 2 years; each member's term is 6 years.
#7
Front
What is the duration of an MP's term in each House?
Back
Lok Sabha MP: 5 years (or until LS is dissolved). Rajya Sabha MP: 6 years.
#8
Front
Qualifications to be a Member of Parliament? (Article 84)
Back
(a) Citizen of India. (b) For Rajya Sabha: at least 30 years of age. For Lok Sabha: at least 25 years of age. (c) Other qualifications prescribed by Parliament — including being registered as an elector in any constituency.
Explanation
Representation of the People Act, 1951 lists detailed qualifications and disqualifications.
#9
Front
Disqualifications for MP under Article 102?
Back
(1) Holds an OFFICE OF PROFIT under Government (other than as Minister, etc.). (2) Of UNSOUND MIND (declared by court). (3) UNDISCHARGED INSOLVENT. (4) Not a citizen / has acquired foreign citizenship. (5) Disqualified under any law made by Parliament. (6) [10th Schedule] Disqualified on grounds of DEFECTION.
Explanation
Decision on disqualification (other than defection) is made by the President in consultation with the Election Commission (Art 103).
#10
Front
Anti-Defection Law — which Schedule and which Amendment?
Back
Tenth Schedule, added by the 52nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1985.
Explanation
Disqualifies an MP/MLA who: (a) voluntarily gives up party membership, (b) votes/abstains contrary to party direction (whip) without prior permission, OR (c) is an independent who joins a party. Decision: Speaker (LS) / Chairman (RS).
#11
Front
What did the 91st Amendment change in the Anti-Defection Law?
Back
DELETED the 'split' exemption (1/3rd defection rule). Now ONLY a 'merger' (2/3rd of original party joining another party) is exempted from disqualification.
Explanation
91st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2003.
#12
Front
Speaker of Lok Sabha — appointment, tenure?
Back
Elected by Lok Sabha from among its members. Holds office during the term of LS, but vacates earlier if: (a) ceases to be MP, (b) resigns to Deputy Speaker, (c) is removed by an effective majority resolution (14 days' notice required). Continues in office even after dissolution till the new LS meets.
Explanation
Speaker presides over the joint sitting of both Houses (Art 108). Speaker has a CASTING VOTE — does not vote in the first instance. Speaker's salary is charged on Consolidated Fund of India.
#13
Front
Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha — what is unique about the post?
Back
Elected by Lok Sabha. By convention (since 1990), the Deputy Speaker comes from the Opposition party. Has same powers as the Speaker when presiding. Holds office until LS dissolution unless removed/resigns.
#14
Front
Chairman and Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha?
Back
CHAIRMAN: Vice-President of India (ex-officio, Art 64). DEPUTY CHAIRMAN: Elected by Rajya Sabha from among its members. Both presiding officers do NOT vote in the first instance — they exercise a CASTING VOTE in case of equality.
#15
Front
How many sessions of Parliament are there in a year?
Back
Constitutionally: AT LEAST 2 sessions per year, and not more than 6 months should elapse between two sessions (Article 85). Conventionally: 3 sessions — Budget (Feb–May), Monsoon (Jul–Sep), Winter (Nov–Dec).
#16
Front
What is the difference between Adjournment, Adjournment sine die, Prorogation, and Dissolution?
Back
ADJOURNMENT: Suspends sitting for short time (hours/days). Decided by Speaker/Chairman. ADJOURNMENT SINE DIE: Ends a sitting without fixing a future date — done by Speaker. PROROGATION: Ends the entire SESSION. Done by the President. Pending bills do NOT lapse. DISSOLUTION: Ends the LIFE of the Lok Sabha. Done by the President. All pending bills (except those originating in RS and not passed in LS, and bills passed by both houses awaiting assent) LAPSE.
Explanation
Rajya Sabha is permanent — only adjournment and prorogation apply, never dissolution.
#17
Front
What is QUORUM for either House?
Back
1/10th of the TOTAL membership of that House (including the presiding officer).
Explanation
Lok Sabha: 1/10 of 545 = 55 (rounded). Rajya Sabha: 1/10 of 250 = 25. If quorum is not met, presiding officer adjourns or suspends sitting (Art 100).
#18
Front
Lame Duck Session — what is it?
Back
The session of Lok Sabha held AFTER a general election but BEFORE the new LS is constituted, attended by the outgoing members who have lost their re-election (the 'lame ducks').
Explanation
Term borrowed from US politics.
#19
Front
Question Hour and Zero Hour — what's the difference?
Back
QUESTION HOUR: First hour of every sitting. MPs ask questions. Three types: (a) STARRED — oral answer + supplementaries (max 20 per day in LS). (b) UNSTARRED — written answer, no supplementaries. (c) SHORT NOTICE — questions of urgent public importance with less than 10 days' notice. ZERO HOUR: An Indian innovation. Begins immediately after Question Hour (12 noon to 1 pm). MPs raise issues without prior notice. Not mentioned in Rules of Procedure or Constitution.
#20
Front
Adjournment Motion vs Calling Attention Motion?
Back
ADJOURNMENT MOTION: Drawn attention to a definite matter of urgent public importance. If admitted, sets aside the day's regular business. NOT permitted in Rajya Sabha. Needs at least 50 MPs' support. CALLING ATTENTION MOTION: An Indian innovation (1954). MP can call the Minister's attention to a matter of urgent public importance. Minister makes a statement; brief discussion permitted. Available in both Houses.
#21
Front
No-confidence Motion — what is it? Who moves it?
Back
A motion against the entire COUNCIL OF MINISTERS, not against an individual Minister. Can be moved ONLY in the LOK SABHA (RS has no power). Needs at least 50 MPs' support to be admitted. If passed by majority, the entire Council of Ministers must resign.
Explanation
Article 75(3): The Council of Ministers shall be collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha.
#22
Front
Censure Motion vs No-Confidence Motion?
Back
NO-CONFIDENCE: Against the entire Council of Ministers; if passed, forces resignation. CENSURE: Can be against an individual Minister or the whole Council; expresses disapproval; if passed, does NOT force resignation. Reasons must be stated for censure (not for no-confidence).
#23
Front
What is a MONEY BILL? (Article 110)
Back
A Bill that contains ONLY provisions dealing with ALL or ANY of: (a) imposition/abolition/alteration/regulation of tax; (b) borrowing of money by GoI; (c) custody/withdrawal from Consolidated Fund / Contingency Fund of India; (d) appropriation of moneys out of Consolidated Fund; (e) declaration of any expenditure 'charged' on Consolidated Fund; (f) receipt of money on Consolidated Fund or audit of Union/State accounts; (g) any matter incidental to above.
Explanation
Speaker's CERTIFICATION that a bill is a Money Bill is final and not justiciable. Verified in Aadhaar judgment (Justice K.S. Puttaswamy II, 2018) — but minority view.
#24
Front
Procedure for Money Bills — special rules?
Back
(1) Can be introduced ONLY in LOK SABHA (Art 109). (2) Only on the President's RECOMMENDATION (Art 117). (3) After LS passes, sent to RS — RS must return within 14 DAYS with recommendations (LS may accept or reject). (4) If RS doesn't return in 14 days, deemed passed by both houses. (5) President can ASSENT or WITHHOLD assent — but CANNOT return for reconsideration.
Explanation
RS has only RECOMMENDING role; LS has the final say. Source: Articles 109, 110, 111.
#25
Front
Money Bill vs Financial Bill — what's the difference?
Back
MONEY BILL (Art 110): Deals ONLY with matters in Art 110(1)(a)-(g). Speaker certifies. RS has only recommending role. FINANCIAL BILL: Two categories. (1) Financial Bill Cat I (Art 117(1)): Contains any of Art 110 matters AND other matters. Like Money Bill: needs President's recommendation, introduced in LS only. UNLIKE Money Bill: RS has equal powers. (2) Financial Bill Cat II (Art 117(3)): Involves expenditure from Consolidated Fund but no Art 110 matters. Treated as ORDINARY bill (can originate in either House), but needs President's recommendation for passing.
#26
Front
Joint Sitting of Parliament — Article 108?
Back
Summoned by the PRESIDENT to resolve a deadlock between LS and RS over a NON-MONEY ORDINARY BILL — when: (a) one House rejects the bill, OR (b) Houses disagree on amendments, OR (c) more than 6 months elapse without the other House's action. Speaker of Lok Sabha presides. Decision is by SIMPLE MAJORITY of those present and voting.
Explanation
Joint sitting is NOT applicable to: Money Bills (LS prevails), Constitutional Amendment Bills (each House must pass separately by special majority).
#27
Front
How many joint sittings have been held in Indian Parliament so far?
Back
THREE joint sittings: (1) Dowry Prohibition Bill, 1961 (President Rajendra Prasad). (2) Banking Service Commission (Repeal) Bill, 1977. (3) Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA), 2002.
#28
Front
Constitutional Amendment Bill — procedure?
Back
Article 368: Bill can be introduced in either House. Must be passed by EACH House SEPARATELY by SPECIAL MAJORITY — 2/3rd of members present and voting AND a MAJORITY OF TOTAL MEMBERSHIP. NO JOINT SITTING. President MUST give assent (24th Amendment, 1971). Some amendments require ADDITIONAL ratification by half the State Legislatures (federal subjects).
#29
Front
Which provisions require ratification by State Legislatures for amendment?
Back
(1) Election of the President (Arts 54, 55). (2) Extent of Executive power of Union/States (Arts 73, 162). (3) Articles related to Supreme Court / High Courts. (4) Distribution of legislative powers between Centre and States (7th Schedule). (5) Representation of States in Parliament (Articles 80, 81). (6) Article 368 itself. (7) Goods and Services Tax provisions (101st Amendment).
#30
Front
What is the difference between Cut Motions: Policy Cut, Economy Cut, and Token Cut?
Back
All are reductions in demands for grants. POLICY CUT: 'Reduce demand to Re. 1' — disapproves the policy underlying the demand. ECONOMY CUT: Reduces demand by a specified amount — represents the economy that can be effected. TOKEN CUT: 'Reduce demand by Rs. 100' — to ventilate a specific grievance.
Explanation
If passed, the government must resign (rare event).
#31
Front
Vote on Account vs Vote of Credit vs Exceptional Grant?
Back
VOTE ON ACCOUNT (Art 116): Advance grant for part of the year (usually 2 months) pending passage of full budget. VOTE OF CREDIT: Demand for unexpected, urgent expenditure (war, natural calamity) where details cannot be specified. EXCEPTIONAL GRANT: For a special purpose forming no part of the regular service of any year.
#32
Front
Budget — constitutional name and procedure?
Back
Constitutional name: ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT (Article 112). Stages: (1) Presentation by Finance Minister (1 February since 2017). (2) General discussion. (3) Scrutiny by Departmentally-Related Standing Committees. (4) Voting on Demands for Grants. (5) Passing of Appropriation Bill. (6) Passing of Finance Bill.
Explanation
Note: Charged expenditure (e.g., President's salary, judges' salary, debt charges) is NOT submitted to vote.
#33
Front
Charged Expenditure vs Voted Expenditure?
Back
CHARGED on Consolidated Fund (Art 112(3)): Cannot be voted; only DISCUSSED. Includes: salaries of President, Speaker/Deputy Speaker, judges of SC/HCs, CAG; debt charges; pensions; sums to satisfy court judgments. VOTED expenditure: Submitted to LS for VOTING in form of Demands for Grants.
#34
Front
Public Accounts Committee (PAC) — composition, function?
Back
Established 1921. 22 members (15 LS + 7 RS). Tenure: 1 year. Chairman: from OPPOSITION since 1967 (convention). Function: examines APPROPRIATION ACCOUNTS and CAG REPORTS to ensure expenditure was: (a) authorized, (b) used for authorized purpose, (c) within authorized limits.
Explanation
Most important Financial Standing Committee. Cannot question policy decisions of the government.
#35
Front
Estimates Committee — composition, function?
Back
Established 1950. 30 members — ALL from LOK SABHA (no RS members). Tenure: 1 year. Chairman: from RULING PARTY. Function: examines BUDGET ESTIMATES to suggest economies, alternative policies, and improvements in administration. Called the 'Continuous Economy Committee'.
#36
Front
Committee on Public Undertakings (COPU) — composition?
Back
Established 1964. 22 members (15 LS + 7 RS). Tenure: 1 year. Examines reports/accounts of public sector undertakings.
#37
Front
Departmentally Related Standing Committees (DRSCs) — what are they?
Back
24 standing committees, established 1993 (16 in 1993, expanded to 24 in 2004). 31 members each (21 LS + 10 RS). Cover all Ministries/Departments. Examine: (a) Demands for Grants, (b) Bills referred to them, (c) Annual Reports, (d) Long-term policy documents.
#38
Front
Privileges of Parliament — Article 105?
Back
(1) FREEDOM OF SPEECH in Parliament — no MP shall be liable to court proceedings for anything said or any vote given in Parliament/Committee. (2) FREEDOM OF PUBLICATION — no liability for publication of reports/proceedings under authority of either House. (3) Right to publish proceedings; exclusion of strangers; punishment for breach of privilege.
Explanation
Personal immunity from civil arrest 40 days before, during, and 40 days after a session (criminal arrest still allowed). Source: Article 105; State legislatures: Article 194.
#39
Front
How many Departmentally Related Standing Committees (DRSCs) are there?
Back
24 (since 2004). Originally 17 (1993), then 24.
#40
Front
Article 100 — Voting in Parliament.
Back
(1) Save as otherwise provided, all questions are determined by a MAJORITY of votes of those present and voting (excluding presiding officer). (2) Presiding officer DOES NOT VOTE in the first instance — exercises a CASTING VOTE in case of equality. (3) Quorum: 1/10th of total membership. (4) Vacancies do not invalidate proceedings.
#41
Front
Article 105 vs Article 194?
Back
Article 105: Privileges of Parliament and its members/Committees. Article 194: Privileges of State Legislatures and their members/Committees. Substantively identical.
#42
Front
Lok Sabha vs Rajya Sabha — special powers of each?
Back
LOK SABHA exclusive: (1) Money Bills introduction. (2) No-confidence motion. (3) Approval of removal of Council of Ministers. (4) Original jurisdiction over financial matters. RAJYA SABHA exclusive: (1) Authorize Parliament to legislate on State List subjects (Art 249). (2) Authorize creation of new All-India Services (Art 312). (3) Initiation of resolution to remove Vice-President.
#43
Front
What is a 'Whip' in parliamentary practice?
Back
A whip is an internal party direction to MPs/MLAs of that party to vote in a specific way on a particular issue. Defying a 3-line whip can attract anti-defection disqualification (Tenth Schedule).
Explanation
Whip is NOT mentioned in the Constitution. The party's chief whip and floor leaders enforce it.
#44
Front
Aspect of Parliament: 'Discontinuity' principle vs 'Resumption' principle?
Back
INDIAN system follows 'PRINCIPLE OF DISCONTINUITY' — bills pending in Lok Sabha LAPSE on its dissolution. EXCEPTIONS: (a) bill passed by RS pending in LS does NOT lapse (RS being permanent), (b) bill awaiting assent of President does NOT lapse, (c) bill returned by President for reconsideration does NOT lapse.
#45
Front
Public Bills vs Private Member's Bills?
Back
PUBLIC (GOVERNMENT) BILLS: Introduced by a Minister. Reflects government policy. PRIVATE MEMBER'S BILLS: Introduced by an MP who is not a Minister. Reserved time slot (Friday afternoons in LS). Most do NOT pass — only 14 PMBs have become law in independent India (last in 1970).
#46
Front
Address by President — Articles 86 and 87.
Back
Article 86: President can ADDRESS either House at any time and can send messages. Article 87: President MUST address both Houses TOGETHER at the (a) FIRST session after each general election, and (b) FIRST session of each year.
Explanation
In response, both Houses pass a 'Motion of Thanks'. Negative voting on the motion is treated as defeat of the government (rare event).
#47
Front
Salary of MPs — how is it fixed?
Back
By PARLIAMENT itself, by law (Article 106). Currently governed by the Salary, Allowances and Pension of Members of Parliament Act, 1954 (regularly amended).
#48
Front
Article 122 — what does it provide?
Back
(1) The validity of any proceedings in Parliament shall not be called in question on the ground of any alleged irregularity of procedure. (2) Officers/Members of Parliament with powers to regulate procedure are NOT subject to court jurisdiction in respect of those powers.
Explanation
Establishes the doctrine of 'parliamentary autonomy' but does not insulate substantive constitutional violations from review (Raja Ram Pal v. Speaker, 2007).
#49
Front
How many sittings does Lok Sabha typically have in a year?
Back
Around 70–75 sittings on average in recent years.
Explanation
Has declined over decades. The 1st LS averaged 135 sittings/year; the 16th LS averaged 67 sittings/year. PRS Legislative Research tracks this data.
#50
Front
What is the 'sub judice rule' in Parliament?
Back
Conventionally, MPs cannot raise issues that are pending before a court of law. This is a self-imposed restraint to avoid interfering with the judicial process — not a constitutional bar.