Question

Explain the important functions of the Lok Sabha?

Answer 1

Hint: Lok Sabha is another name used for the lower house of the Indian parliament. It forms a quintessential part of the central legislature, within the existing parliamentary setup in the country.

Complete answer:
The lower house of the bicameral Indian Parliament is also known as Lok Sabha. It is composed of the representatives, which are chosen by the Indian citizens from different constituencies, by voting in the direct elections and exercising their voting rights. The houses constitute of 552 members, out of which 530 members represent the states, 20 members represent the Union Territories and Indian President has been given the power by the Indian Constitution to nominate 2 members of Lok Sabha from Anglo-Indian community. The important functions of the Lok Sabha are as follows:
a. The legislative powers of the Lok Sabha, as conferred by the Indian constitution allows Lok Sabha to pass bills pertaining primarily to two lists – Union List and Concurrent List. It can draft, implement and execute any bill incorporated within these lists. The non-money bills can be introduced in either of the houses but Lok Sabha always has a supremacy over Rajya Sabha.
b. In the case of the State List, it can introduce bills only in the case of emergencies like national emergency or financial emergency. The resolution can also be passed in Rajya Sabha, by declaring such subjects of the state list as of ‘national importance’ and then it can also come under the ambit of Lok Sabha. It is important to note that such alternate provisions are subject to constitutional limits.
c. As the primary house of the parliament, Lok Sabha has definite control over the executive. The constitution states that the council of ministers and the government in power is answerable and accountable to the lower house of the legislature.
d. Lok Sabha is the only house where money bills can originate. The house passes it with the approval of majority i.e. 2/3rd of members and then it is passed to the President’s house, for the approval of the President. The President has the power of reserving the bill for 14 days and then he/she can present some recommendations. It is under the power of Lok Sabha, to accept or reject the recommendations.
e. The amending power, with respect to the Indian constitution is also shared by both the houses of the Parliament.
f. The other powers of Lok Sabha include, impeachment of President, Vice-President (ratification required) and other powers like proclamation of emergency.

Note: It is important to note that while answering the questions, you should not confuse the functions of Lok Sabha with Rajya Sabha.