Which of the following is the bedrock principle of parliamentary gover...
The Bedrock Principle of Parliamentary Government
In parliamentary systems, the principle of collective responsibility is fundamental. This principle ensures that the council of ministers, headed by the prime minister, operates as a unified body. Here’s a detailed explanation:
Definition of Collective Responsibility
- Collective responsibility means that all members of the cabinet are collectively responsible to the parliament for their decisions and actions.
- If the government loses the confidence of the parliament, all ministers are expected to resign, not just the one who may have made a controversial decision.
Importance in Governance
- This principle fosters unity and cohesion within the government, as decisions are made collectively rather than individually.
- It promotes accountability, as the entire cabinet must stand or fall together based on the confidence of the parliament.
- It encourages a cooperative approach to governance, ensuring that ministers support each other's policies and actions.
Contrast with Other Options
- While option (b) about elected members emphasizes democratic legitimacy, it does not inherently dictate how a government operates.
- Option (c), stating real power lies with the council of ministers, is a result of collective responsibility but does not define the principle itself.
- Option (d) regarding separation of powers is more aligned with presidential systems, where branches of government operate independently.
Conclusion
Collective responsibility is the cornerstone of a parliamentary government, emphasizing unity, accountability, and cooperative governance. This principle ensures that the executive branch acts in concert, making it essential for the stability and functionality of parliamentary systems.
Which of the following is the bedrock principle of parliamentary gover...
Collective responsibility is the bedrock principle of parliamentary government. The ministers are collectively responsible to the Parliament in general and to the Lok Sabha in particular (Article 75). Hence option A is correct.
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