Question

Functions of parliament​

Answer 1

Parliament at Work. Parliament has four main functions: legislation (making laws), representation (acting on behalf of voters and citizens), scrutiny (examining the government), and formation of government

Answer 2

Its powers and functions can be classified in to following heads:

(1). Legislative powers

(2). Executive powers

(3). Financial powers

(4). Constituent powers

(5). Judicial powers

(6). Electoral powers

(7). Other powers

1) Legislative Powers- All the subjects in our constitution are divided among state, union and concurrent lists. In concurrent list Parliamentary law is over riding than state legislative law. Constitution also have powers to make law with respect to state legislature in following circumstances:

(i).  When Rajya Sabha passes a resolution to that effect

(ii). When national emergency is under operation

(iii).When two or more states request parliament to do so

(iv). When necessary to give effect to international agreements, treaties and conventions

(v).  When President’s rule is in operation.

2) Executive Powers- According to parliamentary form of government executive is responsible to the parliament for its acts and policies. Hence parliament exercises control by various measures like committees, question hour, zero hour etc. ministers are collectively responsible to the Parliament.

3) Financial Powers- It includes enactment of budget, scrutinizing the performance of government with respect of financial spending through financial committees (post budgetary control)

4) Constituent Powers- Example - To amend the constitution, to pass any laws required

5) Judicial Powers- Includes;

(i).  Impeachment of President for violation of constitution

(ii). Removal of judges of Supreme Court and High court

(iii). Removal of Vice- President

(iv). Punish members for breach of privileges like sitting in the house when the member knows he is not an eligible member, serving as member before taking oath etc.

6). Electoral Powers- It has its participation in the election of President and Vice-President. The members of Lok Sabha elects speaker and deputy speaker from among its members. Similarly members of Rajya Sabha elects deputy chairman.

7). Other Powers-

(i).  To discuss various issues of national and international importance

(ii). Imposing emergency

(iii). Increase or decrease area, change names, alter the boundary of the states

(iv). Create or abolish state legislature    etc any powers can be added from time to time