Lok Sabha

View of Lok Sabha chamber in the New Parliament building, New Delhi

Lok Sabha is the lower house of India's bicameral Parliament, with the upper house being the Rajya Sabha. Members of the Lok Sabha are elected by adult universal suffrage and represent constituencies from across India. The total sanctioned strength of the Lok Sabha is 545 members, out of which 543 members are elected, and 2 are nominated by the President of India from the Anglo-Indian community if the President believes that community is not adequately represented.

Functions and Powers

The Lok Sabha holds a significant position in the Indian parliamentary system. Its primary functions include legislation, oversight of the executive, and financial control. Most importantly, it plays a crucial role in forming the government, as the executive is drawn from the party or coalition that has the majority in the Lok Sabha. The confidence of the Lok Sabha is essential for the government's survival; a vote of no confidence can lead to the resignation of the entire cabinet and potentially a general election.

Legislation

Legislation requires the approval of both houses of Parliament. However, the Lok Sabha has more powers in financial matters; a money bill can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha. If there are disagreements between the two houses over a bill, a joint sitting is called, and the decision of the majority prevails.

Oversight of the Executive

The Lok Sabha exercises oversight of the executive through various mechanisms, including question hours, debates, and committee investigations. This ensures accountability and transparency in the functioning of the government.

Composition and Term

The Lok Sabha is composed of representatives of the people chosen by direct election on the basis of the adult suffrage. The term of the Lok Sabha is five years from the date appointed for its first meeting, but it can be dissolved earlier by the President on the advice of the Council of Ministers.

Electoral System

India follows a first-past-the-post electoral system for Lok Sabha elections. Each constituency elects one member using a simple majority. The party or coalition with a majority of seats forms the government.

Historical Significance

The Lok Sabha, since its first session in 1952, has played a pivotal role in shaping Indian democracy. It has witnessed landmark legislations and debates that have influenced the country's socio-economic trajectory.

Challenges

The Lok Sabha faces challenges such as representation disparity due to population differences among constituencies, the increasing number of criminal cases against members, and the need for more effective functioning to address the aspirations of a diverse and changing India.

See Also

• Rajya Sabha
• Parliament of India
• Elections in India
• Prime Minister of India