Chapter 5: Legislature

Political Science Part 2 • Class 11

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Chapter Analysis

Intermediate24 pages • English

Quick Summary

The chapter on 'Legislature' for Class 11 Political Science explains the structure, functions, and importance of legislatures, specifically focusing on the Indian Parliament. It elaborates on the bicameral nature of the Parliament with the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, and their distinct and collective roles in law-making. Furthermore, it discusses the control of the executive by the legislature through various mechanisms like budget approval and no-confidence motions, ensuring accountability and governance.

Key Topics

  • Bicameral structure of Parliament
  • Law-making process
  • Control over the executive
  • Legislative privileges and responsibilities
  • Role of committees in Parliament
  • Anti-defection law
  • Powers and functions of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha
  • Financial control and budget approval

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the structure and functions of a bicameral parliament.
  • Evaluate the legislative process and its components.
  • Analyze the role of Parliament in controlling the executive.
  • Examine the importance of parliamentary privileges.
  • Understand the function and significance of parliamentary committees.
  • Investigate the impact of the anti-defection law on Indian politics.

Questions in Chapter

Do you think that composition of Rajya Sabha has protected the position of States of India?

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Should indirect election of Rajya Sabha be replaced by direct elections? What would be its advantages and disadvantages?

Page 108

Since 1971 census the number of seats in the Lok Sabha has not increased. Do you think that it should be increased? What should be the basis for this?

Page 108

Arif wanted to know that if ministers propose most of the important bills and if the majority party often gets the government bills passed, what is the role of the Parliament in the law making process? What answer would you give him?

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Which of the following statements you agree with the most? Give your reasons.

Page 123

Additional Practice Questions

What is the significance of a bicameral legislature in India's parliamentary system?

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Answer: The bicameral legislature in India consists of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, which allows for more comprehensive representation of the states and different groups in society. This structure provides checks and balances in legislation, where laws require approval from both houses, ensuring thorough debate and consideration.

Explain the process by which a Money Bill is passed in the Indian Parliament.

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Answer: A Money Bill can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha and once passed, it is sent to the Rajya Sabha. The Rajya Sabha can suggest amendments which the Lok Sabha may choose to accept or reject. If the Rajya Sabha does not pass the Bill within 14 days, it is deemed to have been passed by both Houses in the form it was originally passed by the Lok Sabha.

Discuss the role of parliamentary committees in the legislative process.

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Answer: Parliamentary committees in India play a critical role in examining bills, budgets, and policies in detail. They help in reducing the burden on the Parliament by facilitating detailed discussions and helping members draft reports that guide the legislative process.

How does the anti-defection law maintain stability in Indian politics?

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Answer: The anti-defection law forbids members of Parliament and state legislatures from switching parties after elections, ensuring stability by reducing incentive for political defection. Members who switch parties lose their seat, preventing manipulation and instability in governments.

Why is the Question Hour considered an important part of parliamentary proceedings?

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Answer: Question Hour in Parliament is crucial as it allows members to question the government on various issues, ensuring accountability and transparency. It helps in eliciting crucial information and allows for discussion on government policies and decisions.