Parliament and the Making of Laws

• Why should People Decide?

  • National Movement legacy
    • People's participation in decision-making
    • Criticism and control over the British government
  • Universal Adult Suffrage
    • Right to vote for all adult citizens
    • Basis of a democratic society
  • Consent of the People
    • Ultimate authority rests with the people
    • Expressed through regular elections

• People and their Representatives

  • Idea of Democracy
    • Citizen as the most important person
    • Individual approval creates democratic government
  • Role of Parliament
    • Elected representatives form the government
    • Parliament controls and guides the government

• Structure of the Indian Parliament

  • Lok Sabha (House of the People)
    • Total strength: 543 elected + 2 nominated (historically)
    • Directly elected by citizens
    • Presided over by the Speaker
    • Term: 5 years
  • Rajya Sabha (Council of States)
    • Total strength: 233 elected + 12 nominated by President
    • Represents the states of India
    • Presided over by the Vice-President of India
    • Permanent body (one-third retire every two years)
  • The President
    • Head of the State
    • Approval required for bills to become laws

• Functions of Parliament

  • To Select the National Government
    • Ruling party/coalition needs a majority in Lok Sabha
    • Prime Minister leads the ruling party
    • Opposition party holds government accountable
  • To Control, Guide and Inform the Government
    • Question Hour: Mechanism to elicit information
    • Asking questions exposes government shortcomings
    • Feedback from citizens through MPs
  • Law-Making
    • Primary function of the Parliament

• What is a Law?

  • Rules of conduct applicable to all citizens
  • Ensures order and prevents discrimination
  • Reflects the needs and values of society

• How do New Laws Come About?

  • Role of Parliament in initiating laws
  • Bill: Draft of a proposed law
    • Ordinary Bill vs. Money Bill
  • Stages of Law Making
    1. Introduction (First Reading)
    2. Discussion and Debate (Second Reading)
    3. Voting (Third Reading)
    4. Passing in one house, then sent to the other house
    5. Assent of the President makes it an Act (Law)
  • Role of Citizens
    • Voicing opinions through media, protests, and campaigns
    • Pressuring Parliament to address societal issues (e.g., Domestic Violence Act)

• Unpopular and Controversial Laws

  • Laws can be legally valid but constitutionally or morally unpopular
  • Criticism by Public
    • Public rallies, media coverage, debates
  • Role of Judiciary
    • Can modify or declare laws invalid if they violate the Constitution