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UPSC Prelims 2022

Exclusive Powers of Lok Sabha - UPSC Prelims 2022 Question

Prelims General Studies Paper - 1

May 14, 2023

2 min read

Question

 

Which of the following is/are the exclusive power(s) of Lok Sabha?

 

1. To ratify the declaration of Emergency
2. To pass a motion of no-confidence against the Council of Ministers
3. To impeach the President of India

 

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

 

A. 1 and 2
B. 2 only
C. 1 and 3
D. 3 only

 

Answer

 

The correct answer is B. 2 only

 

The approval of both Houses of Parliament is required for all types of emergencies. In the case of a National Emergency, the proclamation must be approved by both Houses within one month from the date of its issue. Similarly, a proclamation imposing President's Rule must be approved by both Houses within two months, and a proclamation declaring a financial emergency must also be approved within two months.

 

Moving a no-confidence motion is exclusive to the Lok Sabha and cannot be initiated in the Rajya Sabha. Any member of the Lok Sabha can propose a no-confidence motion, and the procedure for doing so is outlined in Rule 198 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of the Lok Sabha.

 

Impeachment charges against the President can be initiated by either House of Parliament. If the charges are sustained by the other House and an impeachment resolution is passed with a two-thirds majority of the total membership, then the President is removed from office starting from the date the resolution is passed.

 

These provisions ensure that important decisions and actions related to emergencies, motions of no-confidence, and impeachment are subject to the scrutiny and approval of both Houses of Parliament. This ensures democratic accountability and upholds the principles of checks and balances in the functioning of the Indian government. By requiring the support of both Houses, these processes reflect the significance of collective decision-making and consensus-building in the legislative branch of the Indian democracy.

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