Subject of the 91st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2003: Limiting the size of Council of Ministers

The 91st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2003 is an important legislation that aims to restrict the size of the Council of Ministers in both the Union government and the state governments. This amendment was introduced to address the issue of bloated and unwieldy ministries that had become a concern in the Indian political system.

Background:
Prior to the 91st amendment, there was no specific limit on the number of ministers that could be appointed by the President or the Governor. As a result, political parties would often expand their ministries by appointing a large number of ministers, which not only increased the administrative burden but also led to unnecessary expenses.

Key provisions of the 91st Constitutional Amendment Act:
The 91st amendment introduced the following provisions to limit the size of the Council of Ministers:

1. Article 75(1A): This provision states that the total number of ministers, including the Prime Minister, in the Union Council of Ministers shall not exceed 15% of the total number of members in the Lok Sabha.

2. Article 164(1A): Similarly, this provision states that the total number of ministers, including the Chief Minister, in the state Council of Ministers shall not exceed 15% of the total number of members in the Legislative Assembly of that state.

3. Disqualifications: The amendment also introduced disqualifications for any member of Parliament or the state legislature who accepts a ministerial position in excess of the prescribed limit. Such a member would be disqualified from holding their membership.

Significance:
The 91st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2003 has several significant implications:

1. Reduced administrative burden: By limiting the size of the Council of Ministers, the amendment aims to streamline the decision-making process and reduce administrative complexities.

2. Effective governance: A smaller Council of Ministers can ensure better coordination and efficiency in governance, leading to better implementation of policies and programs.

3. Financial savings: Restricting the number of ministers helps in curbing unnecessary expenses incurred in maintaining large ministries, thereby saving public funds.

4. Prevention of political patronage: The amendment prevents the formation of large ministries primarily for political patronage or appeasement, ensuring that ministerial positions are based on merit and competence.

5. Strengthening democratic principles: By curbing the size of the Council of Ministers, the amendment promotes the principles of accountability, transparency, and good governance in the political system.

In conclusion, the subject of the 91st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2003 is the limitation of the size of the Council of Ministers. This amendment plays a crucial role in ensuring effective governance, reducing administrative burden, and promoting financial prudence in the Indian political system.