Article 118 of Indian Constitution

Article 118 of Indian Constitution – It outlines how Parliament can regulate its procedures. Learn definition, status, related articles, UPSC relevance.
📅 Part VI – The States
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📚 UPSC Relevant

Article Number

118

part

Part VI – The States

Status

Active

Full Definition & Explanation

Article 118 of the Indian Constitution outlines how the two Houses of Parliament, namely the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, can establish their own rules for conducting business and procedures. This article empowers each House to create rules that are in line with the Constitution. This means that while the Houses have a lot of freedom to regulate their own workings, they must still follow the overarching principles of the Constitution. For instance, both Houses can decide how debates are conducted, how votes are taken, and how members can raise issues. This flexibility allows Parliament to adapt to changing circumstances and requirements.

The article also provides a transitional mechanism. Until the new rules are established, the existing rules and standing orders from the previous legislative body, the Dominion of India, will remain in effect. This provision ensures continuity in the legislative process. The Chairman of the Rajya Sabha and the Speaker of the Lok Sabha can modify these rules as necessary. This allows for a smoother transition from past practices to those that reflect the values and needs of the newly independent nation.

Also, Article 118 also addresses the procedure for joint sittings of both Houses. The President, after consulting with the Chairman and the Speaker, has the authority to make rules regarding how these joint sittings will be conducted. This ensures that both Houses can work together effectively when required, promoting cooperation and collaboration in the legislative process. Overall, Article 118 plays a key role in shaping how Parliament operates, ensuring that it remains functional and responsive to the needs of the country.

Historical Context

Article 118 was included in the Constitution when it was adopted on January 26, 1950. It has not undergone any amendments since its inception. The debates during the Constituent Assembly revealed a strong desire for parliamentary autonomy while ensuring constitutional compliance. The Supreme Court has recognized the necessity of rules for orderly functioning in cases like K. K. Verma v. Union of India, reinforcing the importance of this article in maintaining legislative decorum. This historical evolution demonstrates the responsive nature of the constitutional framework in addressing the nation’s changing needs over time This ensures clarity under the law. This historical evolution demonstrates the responsive nature of the constitutional framework in addressing the nation’s changing needs over time.

Key Features

– Each House of Parliament can make its own rules for procedure.
– Existing rules from the Dominion of India remain effective until new rules are made.
– The President can set rules for joint sittings of both Houses.
– The Speaker presides over joint sittings unless otherwise specified.
– Rules must comply with the provisions of the Constitution.

Importance & Impact

– Empowers Parliament to regulate its own functioning and procedures for administrative efficiency.
– Ensures continuity of legislative procedures from previous governance for administrative efficiency.
– Facilitates collaboration through rules for joint sittings for administrative efficiency.
– Allows for adaptation to changing legislative needs and circumstances for administrative efficiency.
– Encourages orderly conduct in parliamentary debates and discussions for administrative efficiency.

Sample UPSC Question

Which of the following statements are true regarding Article 118 of the Indian Constitution? A) It allows Parliament to make its own rules. B) The President cannot influence the rules. C) Existing rules remain until new ones are made. D) The Speaker presides over joint sittings. Select the correct options.? Which of the statements given above are correct in the context of the federal structure of India? This ensures clarity under the law.? Which of the statements given above are correct in the context of the federal structure of India?

Answer

The correct options are A, C, and D. Article 118 allows Parliament to regulate its procedures, existing rules remain in effect, and the Speaker presides over joint sittings. Understanding these details is helpful for analyzing how the constitution balances power and state responsibilities This ensures clarity under the law. Understanding these details is helpful for analyzing how the constitution balances power and state responsibilities.

Key Takeaways

✓ Parliament can create its own procedural rules across the country.
✓ Existing rules apply until new ones are made.
✓ The President can set rules for joint sittings.
✓ The Speaker presides over joint sessions of Parliament.
✓ Rules must align with constitutional provisions across the country.

FAQs

Article 118 allows each House of Parliament to create its own rules for conducting business. This ensures that Parliament can operate effectively while adhering to the Constitution. It also provides a framework for how the Houses can work together during joint sittings. These rules help maintain a consistent and fair approach to public administration and governance across the country.

The Chairman of the Rajya Sabha and the Speaker of the Lok Sabha can modify existing rules. They have the authority to adapt the rules to better fit the needs of the Parliament. This helps maintain relevance in legislative procedures. These rules help maintain a consistent and fair approach to public administration and governance across the country.

If new rules are not established, the existing rules from the Dominion of India will remain in effect. This ensures that there is no gap in the legislative process. It helps maintain continuity in how Parliament conducts its business. These rules help maintain a consistent and fair approach to public administration and governance across the country.

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