Apart from Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, who else constitutes the Parliam...
Under article 80 of the Constitution, the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) is composed of not more than 250 members, of whom 12 are nominated by the President of India from amongst persons who have special knowledge or practical experience in respect of such matters as literature, science, art and social service.
Apart from Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, who else constitutes the Parliam...
The Parliament of India is the supreme legislative body of the country. It consists of two houses, namely the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). However, apart from these two houses, the President of India also constitutes the Parliament.
The President is the head of state and the constitutional head of the executive branch of the Indian government. The office of the President is an integral part of the Parliament and plays a significant role in the legislative process. Let's understand the President's role in the Parliament in detail:
1. Role as the Head of the State:
- The President represents the nation as the ceremonial head of state.
- The President's role is to ensure the unity and integrity of the country.
- The President performs various ceremonial functions such as addressing the nation on important occasions, conferring awards, and receiving foreign dignitaries.
2. Role in the Legislative Process:
- The President has a crucial role in the legislative process as bills passed by both houses of Parliament require the President's assent to become law.
- The President has the power to summon, prorogue, and dissolve the sessions of Parliament.
- The President addresses both houses of Parliament at the beginning of the first session after each general election and also on other important occasions.
- The President has the power to withhold or give assent to bills passed by Parliament. In case of disagreement, the bill can be sent back to the houses for reconsideration.
3. Role in the Appointment of Prime Minister:
- After a general election, the President appoints the leader of the majority party or coalition as the Prime Minister of India.
- The Prime Minister then forms the Council of Ministers to aid in the governance of the country.
4. Role in the Appointment of Judges:
- The President appoints the Chief Justice and other judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts.
In conclusion, the President of India plays a crucial role in the functioning of the Parliament. Apart from being the head of state and performing ceremonial functions, the President has powers and responsibilities related to the legislative process, including giving assent to bills, addressing Parliament, and appointing the Prime Minister and judges.