Parliament: UPSC Previous Year Questions (Polity)

Explanation

The powers and functions of the Parliament are mentioned in Chapter II of Part V of the Constitution. Under this, the Parliament is empowered to make laws on all matters listed in the Union list and Concurrent list of the Constitution.

Option (d) is correct: According to article 253, it can also formulate laws on any matter pertaining to the State list if it is deemed necessary for the implementation of International Treaties or Agreements concluded with foreign nations. This provision ensures that India can fulfill its international obligations effectively. Hence, no consent from the states is required.

Explanation

Statement (a) is incorrect: A Money Bill can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha on the prior recommendation of the President, as per Article 109 of the Indian Constitution. It cannot be introduced in the Rajya Sabha. Statement (b) is correct: The Speaker of the Lok Sabha is the final authority to decide whether a bill is a Money Bill or not. This decision is final and cannot be questioned in any court. However, in Rojer Mathew v South Indian Bank Ltd Case, 2019 Supreme court said that the speaker’s decision was not beyond judicial review though the scope was extremely restricted. Statement (c) is correct: After the Lok Sabha passes the Money Bill, it is sent to the Rajya Sabha. The Rajya Sabha has 14 days to either accept, reject, or recommend changes in the bill to the Lok Sabha. The Lok Sabha can either accept or reject all or any of the recommendations of the Rajya Sabha. Statement (d) is correct: Once the Money Bill has been passed by the Lok Sabha (and the Rajya Sabha, if applicable), it is sent to the President for approval. The President may either give or withhold his assent to a Money Bill. The President cannot return a Money Bill to the Lok Sabha for reconsideration.

Explanation

Option (d) is correct: The speaker of the Lok sabha can ask a member of the house to stop speaking and let another member speak. It is known as yielding the floor. Yielding the floor allows the smooth and orderly conduct of debate in the House. The Speaker may ask a member to stop speaking if they have exceeded their time or if another member is to speak on the matter at hand. Options (a), (b) and (c) are incorrect:

Decorum refers to the appropriate behavior and conduct expected in the House. Crossing the floor is a term used when a member switches allegiance from one party to another, particularly in the context of voting or support. Interpellation is a formal procedure where a member of the House asks a question to the government, which requires a written or oral response. The term "interpellation" is not formally used in Indian parliamentary practice.