CBSE Class 11 Political Science Extra Question Answers for Chapter 5 Legislature

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1 week ago

Question 1:
Explain the composition of the Indian Parliament.

Answer:
The Indian Parliament is a bicameral legislature, consisting of two houses:

Lok Sabha (House of the People): It is the lower house of Parliament and represents the people of India directly. Members are elected by direct elections based on universal adult suffrage. The Lok Sabha has a maximum strength of 552 members, though the current strength is 545, with 530 representing states, 13 representing Union Territories, and 2 nominated by the President from the Anglo-Indian community.
Rajya Sabha (Council of States): It is the upper house and represents the states and Union Territories. The Rajya Sabha has 250 members, of which 238 are elected by members of State Legislative Assemblies, and 12 are nominated by the President for their expertise in various fields.

The President of India is an integral part of the Parliament, but they do not belong to either house. The Parliament together enacts laws, discusses national policies, and holds the executive accountable.

Question 2:
What is the role of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha?

Answer:
The Speaker of the Lok Sabha plays a crucial role in maintaining order and discipline in the house. The key functions of the Speaker are:

Presiding Over the Sessions: The Speaker presides over the sessions of the Lok Sabha, ensuring the smooth functioning of debates and discussions.
Maintaining Order: They ensure that parliamentary rules are followed and take action in case of disorderly conduct. The Speaker can expel members who violate the rules of conduct.
Casting Vote: In case of a tie during voting on any bill or motion, the Speaker has the casting vote, which is used to break the deadlock.
Deciding on Points of Order: The Speaker decides on points of order and questions related to the conduct of the house.
Representing Lok Sabha: The Speaker represents the Lok Sabha in all external matters, including in relations with the President and other houses of Parliament.

The Speaker is expected to be impartial and above political considerations while performing these duties.

Question 3:
What are the qualifications required to become a Member of the Lok Sabha?

Answer:
To become a Member of the Lok Sabha, a person must meet the following qualifications:

Citizenship: The candidate must be a citizen of India.
Age: The candidate must be at least 25 years old.
Voter Registration: The candidate must be registered as a voter in any parliamentary constituency.
Not Disqualified: The candidate should not be disqualified under any provisions of the Constitution, such as being of unsound mind, holding office of profit, or being convicted of certain offenses.
Nomination: The candidate must file a nomination paper proposing their candidacy and be elected through a general election or by-election.

These qualifications ensure that the elected members are capable of representing the people of India effectively.

Question 4:
What is the process of lawmaking in India?

Answer:
The process of lawmaking in India involves several stages:

Introduction of Bill: A bill can be introduced in either the Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha, except for Money Bills, which can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha. The bill may be introduced by a member of the government or a private member.
First Reading: The bill is introduced, and its title and objectives are read out. No debate occurs during the first reading.
Second Reading: The general principles and details of the bill are debated. A vote is taken at the end of the second reading.
Committee Stage: The bill is referred to a parliamentary committee, which scrutinizes its provisions and may suggest amendments.
Third Reading: The final version of the bill is debated, and members vote on it.
Approval by the Other House: If the bill has passed in the first house, it is sent to the other house (Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha) for consideration. If the second house makes amendments, the bill returns to the first house for approval.
Presidential Assent: Once both houses pass the bill, it is sent to the President for approval. The President can either assent to the bill or return it for reconsideration (except Money Bills).

Once the President assents, the bill becomes law.

Question 5:
Explain the importance of the Rajya Sabha in the Indian Parliament.

Answer:
The Rajya Sabha (Council of States) is the upper house of Parliament, and its significance includes:

Representation of States and Union Territories: The Rajya Sabha represents the federal structure of India by providing a forum for states and Union Territories to voice their concerns and interests.
Review and Scrutiny: The Rajya Sabha acts as a revising chamber, providing detailed scrutiny and review of legislation passed by the Lok Sabha. This helps prevent hasty decisions.
Delay in Legislation: Unlike the Lok Sabha, the Rajya Sabha cannot be dissolved, so it serves as a stabilizing force, providing continuity in governance.
Expert Opinions: Many members of the Rajya Sabha are nominated for their expertise in various fields such as law, science, literature, and social services, adding depth to legislative debates.
Limited Legislative Powers: While the Rajya Sabha cannot initiate Money Bills, it can delay or amend non-financial legislation, making it a check on the power of the Lok Sabha.

The Rajya Sabha is vital for the smooth functioning of India’s democracy by ensuring balanced representation and comprehensive lawmaking.

Question 6:
What are the powers of the Rajya Sabha?

Answer:
The Rajya Sabha has several important powers:

Legislative Powers: Rajya Sabha can pass bills, suggest amendments, and delay legislation. However, it cannot initiate Money Bills, which can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha.
Control Over States: It plays a significant role in matters that affect states and Union Territories, as its members represent these regions.
Impeachment and Removal: Rajya Sabha participates in the impeachment process of the President and removal of judges, ensuring accountability in key positions.
Approval of Treaties and Agreements: The Rajya Sabha’s approval is necessary for ratifying international treaties, agreements, and conventions.
Salaries and Pensions: Rajya Sabha can review and modify proposals related to the salaries, allowances, and pensions of members of Parliament and public officials.

Thus, the Rajya Sabha acts as a check on the legislature’s actions, balancing the power of the Lok Sabha.

Question 7:
Describe the role of the Lok Sabha in the Indian Parliament system.

Answer:
The Lok Sabha, as the lower house of Parliament, holds immense importance in the Indian parliamentary system. Its key roles include:

Representation of the People: Lok Sabha members are directly elected by the people of India, making it the primary institution for representing the popular will.
Lawmaking: Lok Sabha plays the central role in the lawmaking process. While the Rajya Sabha can amend or delay bills, the final decision often rests with the Lok Sabha.
Control over the Executive: The Lok Sabha is critical in holding the government accountable through debates, questions, and motions. The executive must maintain the confidence of the Lok Sabha to remain in power.
Approval of the Budget: The Lok Sabha has exclusive control over the national budget. Money Bills can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha and must be passed by it.
Passing of Resolutions: The Lok Sabha passes important resolutions regarding national issues, public policies, and national security.

The Lok Sabha, therefore, is the most powerful body in the Indian Parliament and directly influences the functioning of the government.

Question 8:
What is a Money Bill? Discuss its features and procedure in Parliament.

Answer:
A Money Bill refers to a bill that deals with financial matters, such as the imposition, collection, and allocation of taxes, government spending, or borrowing. Its key features and procedure are:

Introduction: A Money Bill can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha and requires the President’s approval before introduction.
Rajya Sabha’s Role: The Rajya Sabha can suggest amendments to a Money Bill, but the Lok Sabha is not bound to accept these suggestions. If the Rajya Sabha does not act within 14 days, the Bill is deemed passed.
Exclusive Power of the Lok Sabha: Only the Lok Sabha has the power to introduce and approve Money Bills, underscoring the control of the elected representatives of the people over national finances.
Presidential Assent: After passing both houses (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, if applicable), the Money Bill is sent to the President for approval. The President cannot withhold assent.

Money Bills are essential for the financial functioning of the government and ensure accountability in the use of public funds.

Question 9:
How does the Indian Parliament exercise control over the executive?

Answer:
The Indian Parliament exercises control over the executive through several mechanisms:

Debates and Discussions: Parliament regularly holds debates on the policies and actions of the executive. Ministers answer questions raised by members of Parliament, providing transparency and accountability.
Motions of No Confidence: If the Lok Sabha loses confidence in the executive, it can pass a motion of no confidence, forcing the government to resign.
Committees: Parliamentary committees, such as the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), scrutinize the executive’s actions, especially its financial dealings and the implementation of policies.
Budget Approval: The executive cannot spend funds without the approval of Parliament. The budget is a primary tool through which Parliament monitors and controls government spending.
Question Hour: Every day in Parliament is devoted to Question Hour, during which ministers must answer questions from MPs regarding their ministries.

These mechanisms ensure that the executive remains accountable to Parliament and the public.

Question 10:
Explain the concept of ‘collective responsibility’ of the Cabinet.

Answer:
The principle of collective responsibility refers to the idea that the entire Cabinet is collectively responsible for the decisions and actions of the government. Key features of this concept are:

Unified Responsibility: The Cabinet must speak with one voice. If a minister disagrees with a Cabinet decision, they must either resign or support the decision publicly.
Accountability to Parliament: The Cabinet is accountable to the Lok Sabha. If the Lok Sabha passes a no-confidence motion against the Cabinet, all members must resign.
Collective Decisions: Even if a decision is made by a single minister, it is considered the decision of the entire Cabinet, and the Cabinet is collectively accountable for it.
Support for the Prime Minister: The Prime Minister leads the Cabinet, and the support of the Cabinet is crucial for their political survival.

The concept of collective responsibility ensures a unified government and reinforces the principle of accountability to the people.

Question 11:
What is the difference between a Money Bill and a Regular Bill in the Indian Parliament?

Answer:
A Money Bill and a Regular Bill differ primarily in terms of their subject matter and the legislative process:

Subject Matter:
- Money Bill: Deals exclusively with matters related to national finance, such as taxes, government expenditure, borrowing, etc. It cannot include non-financial provisions.
- Regular Bill: Deals with general matters, including criminal laws, civil rights, or policies unrelated to finances.
Introduction:
- Money Bill: Can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha and must be certified by the President before introduction.
- Regular Bill: Can be introduced in either house of Parliament (Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha).
Role of Rajya Sabha:
- Money Bill: Rajya Sabha can only suggest amendments, and the Lok Sabha has the final say. If the Rajya Sabha does not act on a Money Bill within 14 days, it is considered passed.
- Regular Bill: Rajya Sabha has equal powers in amending or rejecting the bill.
Presidential Assent:
- Money Bill: The President cannot withhold assent once passed by both houses.
- Regular Bill: The President can withhold assent, send it back for reconsideration (except Money Bills), or even reserve it for judicial review.

Question 12:
What is the significance of Parliamentary Committees in the Indian legislative system?

Answer:
Parliamentary Committees play a crucial role in ensuring effective scrutiny and accountability of the government:

Detailed Scrutiny: Committees allow detailed examination of policies, bills, and issues that are not possible during full parliamentary sessions. This helps in refining legislation before it is passed.
Specialized Oversight: Committees such as the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Estimates Committee, and Committee on Public Undertakings monitor the executive’s actions, ensuring transparency and adherence to laws.
Minimizing Time Constraints: Committees work during recesses and handle legislative business in a more focused manner, freeing up Parliament for broader debates.
Recommendations: Committees provide valuable recommendations that are often adopted by the government, influencing policy decisions.

These committees ensure thorough oversight, fostering transparency and responsible governance.

Question 13:
Explain the procedure for impeachment of the President of India.

Answer:
The impeachment of the President of India is a formal process for removing a sitting President in case of violation of the Constitution. The procedure is as follows:

Initiation: Impeachment proceedings can be initiated in either house of Parliament (Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha) with a written motion signed by at least one-quarter of the total members of the house.
Investigation: The motion must be investigated by a committee appointed by the house, which will verify the charges against the President.
Approval in Parliament: If the investigation finds the President guilty, the motion must be passed by a two-thirds majority of the members of the house where the motion was introduced.
Transfer to the Other House: Once passed in the originating house, the motion is sent to the other house for approval, where it must also be passed by a two-thirds majority.
Final Action: Once both houses approve the motion, the President is impeached and removed from office.

The process ensures that the office of the President remains protected from arbitrary actions, while allowing for accountability.

Question 14:
What are the functions of the Indian Parliament?

Answer:
The Indian Parliament performs several key functions:

Legislation: The primary function of Parliament is to make laws on matters listed in the Union List, Concurrent List, and State List (subject to the division of powers under the Constitution).
Control over the Executive: Parliament scrutinizes the actions of the government, discusses policies, and ensures the executive is accountable. It can pass motions of no-confidence, forcing the government to resign.
Budget and Financial Control: Parliament approves the annual budget, and it must give its assent before government expenditure can occur. It also monitors how public money is spent.
Representation of People: Through its members, Parliament represents the views, interests, and grievances of the people. MPs raise issues related to public welfare, laws, and policies.
Judicial Powers: Parliament has powers to impeach the President, remove judges, and address violations of constitutional norms.

These functions are vital in ensuring democratic governance, transparency, and accountability in India.

Question 15:
What is a ‘whip’ in the context of the Indian Parliament?

Answer:
A whip is a member of Parliament who is responsible for ensuring that party members attend parliamentary sessions and vote according to the party’s stance on specific issues. Key aspects of the whip’s role include:

Disciplinary Role: The whip ensures that MPs adhere to party lines, especially during crucial votes, such as on no-confidence motions, budget votes, or important legislations.
Issuing Whip: A party may issue a whip to its members to vote in a particular manner (e.g., for or against a bill). MPs are expected to follow the party’s directive, and failure to do so may lead to disciplinary action.
Strengthening Party Unity: The whip helps maintain party discipline and unity in Parliament, preventing defections and maintaining the party’s strength during voting.
Two Types of Whips: A three-line whip is a strict directive requiring MPs to attend and vote as directed, while a two-line whip is less strict, giving MPs more freedom.

The whip ensures the party’s coherence and discipline during parliamentary proceedings.

Question 16:
What is the concept of ‘Parliamentary Sovereignty’?

Answer:
Parliamentary Sovereignty refers to the principle that the Parliament is the supreme legislative authority in the country. Its characteristics include:

Unrestricted Legislative Power: Parliament can make, amend, or repeal any law, without any legal limitation on its legislative capacity.
Supremacy over Executive: The executive is accountable to Parliament, and no law passed by Parliament can be overruled by the executive. Even the President must give assent to the laws passed by Parliament.
No Judicial Review (in some cases): In the Indian context, although the judiciary has the power of judicial review, no law passed by Parliament can be struck down unless it violates the Basic Structure of the Constitution.

This sovereignty of Parliament is balanced by the Constitution, ensuring that it acts within constitutional limits and adheres to democratic principles.

Question 17:
Explain the concept of ‘Federal Structure’ of Parliament.

Answer:
The Federal Structure of Parliament refers to the representation of both the central government and the states in the legislative process. Key features include:

Bicameral Parliament: India has a bicameral Parliament consisting of the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). The Lok Sabha represents the people directly, while the Rajya Sabha represents the states and Union Territories.
State Representation: The Rajya Sabha ensures that states are adequately represented in Parliament. Each state, regardless of its size or population, has members in the Rajya Sabha, giving a voice to regional interests.
Division of Powers: The Union List, State List, and Concurrent List determine the distribution of powers between the center and the states, with Parliament having exclusive authority over matters in the Union List.
Role of States: State governments have a role in the Rajya Sabha, ensuring that their concerns and interests are considered when making national laws, especially on issues affecting regional governance.

This federal structure allows for a balance of power between the center and the states, ensuring that regional interests are represented in national legislation.

Question 18:
What are the qualifications required to become a member of the Rajya Sabha?

Answer:
To become a member of the Rajya Sabha, the candidate must meet the following qualifications:

Citizenship: The candidate must be a citizen of India.
Age: The candidate must be at least 30 years old.
Voter Registration: The candidate must be registered as a voter in any parliamentary constituency.
Not Disqualified: The candidate should not be disqualified from contesting elections due to reasons such as being of unsound mind, holding office of profit, or being convicted of a criminal offense.
Elected by States and Union Territories: Members of the Rajya Sabha are indirectly elected by the members of the State Legislative Assemblies and Union Territories through a system of proportional representation by means of a single transferable vote.

These qualifications ensure that Rajya Sabha members have the necessary experience, maturity, and legal standing to represent the states and Union Territories.

Question 19:
Discuss the role of the Vice-President in the Indian Parliament.

Answer:
The Vice-President of India serves as the Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha and plays an important role in the functioning of Parliament:

Presiding Officer: The Vice-President presides over the Rajya Sabha and ensures its smooth functioning by maintaining order during debates and discussions.
Casting Vote: In the event of a tie during voting, the Vice-President can cast a casting vote to break the deadlock.
Disciplinary Authority: The Vice-President has the authority to take action against members who violate the rules of the house, including suspending or expelling members for disorderly behavior.
Represents Rajya Sabha: The Vice-President represents the Rajya Sabha in all external matters and ensures the house operates according to its rules and procedures.

The Vice-President thus ensures that the Rajya Sabha functions smoothly and maintains order during its proceedings.

Question 20:
What is a No-Confidence Motion? Explain its significance in the Indian Parliament.

Answer:
A No-Confidence Motion is a motion moved in the Lok Sabha to express the lack of confidence in the current government. Its significance includes:

Test of Majority: A no-confidence motion tests whether the government enjoys the confidence of the majority in the Lok Sabha. If the motion is passed, the government must resign.
Accountability of the Executive: It ensures that the government remains accountable to the people’s representatives. The executive must secure the support of the majority in the Lok Sabha to stay in power.
Political Consequences: The passing of a no-confidence motion often leads to the dissolution of the existing government and the formation of a new one. It reflects the changing political dynamics in Parliament.

The no-confidence motion is a powerful tool that upholds democratic principles by ensuring that the government remains answerable to the people through their elected representatives.

Question 21:
What are the qualifications required to become a Member of the Rajya Sabha?

Answer:
To become a member of the Rajya Sabha, the candidate must meet the following qualifications:

Citizenship: The candidate must be a citizen of India.
Age: The candidate must be at least 30 years old.
Voter Registration: The candidate must be registered as a voter in any parliamentary constituency.
Not Disqualified: The candidate should not be disqualified from contesting elections due to reasons such as being of unsound mind, holding office of profit, or being convicted of a criminal offense.
Elected by States and Union Territories: Members of the Rajya Sabha are indirectly elected by the members of the State Legislative Assemblies and Union Territories through a system of proportional representation by means of a single transferable vote.

These qualifications ensure that Rajya Sabha members have the necessary experience, maturity, and legal standing to represent the states and Union Territories.

Question 22:
Explain the significance of the President’s role in the legislative process.

Answer:
The President of India plays a key role in the legislative process:

Summoning and Proroguing Sessions: The President has the power to summon, prorogue, and dissolve the Lok Sabha, determining the dates of parliamentary sessions.
Assent to Bills: The President must give assent to bills passed by both houses of Parliament for them to become law. The President can withhold assent, return a bill (except Money Bills), or reserve it for judicial review.
Ordinance Power: When Parliament is not in session, the President can issue ordinances that have the force of law until Parliament passes or rejects them.
Addressing the Parliament: The President addresses Parliament at the beginning of each new session, outlining the government’s legislative agenda.

The President’s role ensures that the legislative process operates smoothly and in accordance with the Constitution.

Question 23:
What is the role of the Cabinet in the Indian Legislature?

Answer:
The Cabinet is a key decision-making body in the Indian legislature:

Executive Role: The Cabinet is responsible for formulating and implementing policies and decisions for the country. It proposes most bills to Parliament.
Collective Responsibility: The Cabinet is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha. If the Lok Sabha passes a no-confidence motion, the entire Cabinet must resign.
Guiding Legislation: The Cabinet guides the legislative agenda of Parliament, deciding on important bills and national policies.
Control over Legislation: Ministers from the Cabinet introduce bills in Parliament, especially on key national issues such as defense, economic policy, or welfare programs.

The Cabinet ensures that legislative functions are closely tied to the executive’s functioning, ensuring a coordinated governance system.

Question 24:
What is the role of the Lok Sabha in the Indian Budget process?

Answer:
The Lok Sabha plays a central role in the Indian Budget process:

Introduction of Budget: The Union Budget is introduced in the Lok Sabha by the Finance Minister. The Lok Sabha is the only house that can approve the budget.
Scrutiny and Debate: The Lok Sabha reviews the budget in detail through discussions and debates in the form of the General Discussion and committee scrutiny.
Approval of Estimates: The Estimates Committee examines the expenditure proposals, ensuring that public funds are used appropriately.
Voting on Budget: The Lok Sabha votes on the budget, approving or rejecting various provisions, including the demand for grants and the Finance Bill.

The Lok Sabha has exclusive control over the budget, which is essential for government functioning.

Question 25:
What is the procedure for the election of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha?

Answer:
The Speaker of the Lok Sabha is elected through the following procedure:

Nominations: Members of the Lok Sabha nominate candidates for the position of Speaker.
Voting: If there is more than one nominee, a vote is held by members of the Lok Sabha. The election is conducted through a secret ballot.
Majority: The candidate who secures the simple majority of votes is elected as the Speaker.
Oath: The newly elected Speaker takes an oath of office, swearing to uphold the Constitution and conduct the house impartially.

The Speaker plays an essential role in maintaining the dignity of the Lok Sabha and ensuring its orderly conduct.

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