3.2 - The Role of the Parliament

The Parliament plays a crucial role in the functioning of a democracy, particularly in the process of making laws and overseeing the government. In India, the Parliament is the supreme legislative body, responsible for making laws, debating issues, and representing the people of the country.

Parliament consists of two Houses: the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). Members of the Lok Sabha are directly elected by the people, while members of the Rajya Sabha are elected by the members of the state legislative assemblies. The two Houses work together to create and pass laws, check the actions of the government, and ensure that the government remains accountable to the people.

Composition of the Parliament

The Lok Sabha has a maximum of 552 members, who are directly elected by the people of India through general elections held every five years. The Rajya Sabha, on the other hand, can have up to 250 members, of which 238 are elected by state and territorial legislatures, and the remaining 12 are appointed by the President of India for their expertise in fields such as literature, science, arts, or social services.

Both Houses of Parliament have specific powers and responsibilities. However, they must work together to pass most legislation, especially on important issues such as the budget or laws affecting the Constitution.

Functions of the Parliament

The primary functions of the Parliament can be divided into the following categories:

• Legislative Function: Parliament makes laws on a wide range of subjects, including defense, education, health, and social welfare. A proposed law (called a bill) can be introduced by a member of Parliament or by the government. The bill is then discussed, debated, and amended before being passed by both Houses of Parliament.
• Financial Function: Parliament approves the national budget, which details the government's expenditure and income for the upcoming year. The budget is introduced by the Finance Minister in the Lok Sabha, and after discussions and modifications, it must be passed by both Houses. A key aspect of the financial function is the control over public funds through the passing of the Finance Bill and other money bills.
• Control over the Executive: Parliament has the power to question and check the actions of the executive (the government). This is done through various means such as debates, question hours, and committees. Members of Parliament can raise concerns about government policies, seek explanations, and hold the government accountable for its actions.
• Amendment of the Constitution: Parliament also has the power to amend the Constitution, which can only be done through a special procedure. Constitutional amendments require a two-thirds majority in both Houses, and in some cases, the approval of the state legislatures.
• Representing the People: Parliament represents the people of India and their interests. Members of Parliament are elected to speak on behalf of their constituents and raise issues affecting the people in their region or across the country. This representation ensures that the voices of the people are heard in the lawmaking process.

The Lawmaking Process

The process of making laws in Parliament involves several stages. A bill is first introduced, either by a government minister or a member of Parliament. The bill is debated, and changes can be made to it. If the bill is approved by both Houses, it is sent to the President for assent, after which it becomes a law. The stages of passing a bill include:

• Introduction of the Bill: The bill is introduced in either the Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha.
• Debate and Amendments: The bill is debated, and amendments may be proposed and discussed.
• Approval: If the bill is passed in one House, it is sent to the other House for consideration. Both Houses must approve the bill in the same form.
• Presidential Assent: Once the bill is passed by both Houses, it is sent to the President, who can either approve or reject it. Once approved, it becomes law.

Role of Parliament in Lawmaking

Parliament's role in lawmaking is fundamental to the functioning of the Indian democracy. Laws passed by Parliament shape the lives of the citizens and have a direct impact on the country's development and progress. It is essential for members of Parliament to carefully consider the implications of the laws they create and ensure they serve the public interest. Additionally, Parliament holds the executive accountable for its actions and ensures that the government does not overstep its authority.