The Lok Sabha, or House of the People, is powerful lower house of India’s bicameral Parliament. It serves as primary representative body where will of ]Indian citizens is directly voiced through their elected representatives.
What is Lok Sabha?
The Lok Sabha is composed of representatives elected by direct election on the basis of adult voting. Maximum strength of House envisaged by the Constitution is 552. Currently, house has 543 elected seats.
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Members are elected for a five-year term, unless House is dissolved sooner by President.
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House is presided over by Speaker, who is elected by members from among themselves. Speaker maintains order and ensures House functions according to established rules.
Primary Functions of Lok Sabha
1. Legislative Function
The primary job is making laws. While ordinary bills can originate in either house, Lok Sabha’s larger membership often gives it upper hand in passing legislation.
If there is a deadlock between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha (Upper House), a joint sitting is called where Lok Sabha’s numerical strength usually prevails.
2. Financial Power
Lok Sabha is significantly more powerful than Rajya Sabha in financial matters.
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Money Bills: These can only be introduced in Lok Sabha.
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Lok Sabha passes Union Budget, authorizing government to spend money and collect taxes. Rajya Sabha can only suggest changes to money bills, which Lok Sabha is free to accept or reject.
3. Executive Control
In India’s parliamentary system, Council of Ministers (the Government) is collectively responsible only to Lok Sabha.
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No-Confidence Motion: If Lok Sabha passes a “No-Confidence Motion” against government, Prime Minister and entire cabinet must resign.
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Members keep government in check through Question Hour, debates, and various committees.
Importance of Lok Sabha
The Lok Sabha is vital for stability and legitimacy of Indian state for several reasons:
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Direct Representation: It ensures that every corner of India, from Himalayas to Indian Ocean, has a voice in national capital.
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Reflecting Popular Will: Since members are elected directly by people, Lok Sabha reflects current political sentiment and mandates of nation.
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Accountability: It acts as a watchdog, ensuring that Prime Minister and Cabinet do not overstep their bounds and remain answerable to citizens.
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Conflict Resolution: It provides a platform for debating national issues, allowing diverse opinions to be heard before a national agreement is reached through voting.
Summary
| Feature | Lok Sabha (Lower House) |
| Common Name | House of the People |
| Election Method | Direct (by the people) |
| Member Term | 5 Years |
| Head of House | Speaker |
| Financial Authority | Supreme (exclusive power over Money Bills) |