W HAT DOES THE P ARLIAMENT DO ? What is the function of the legislature? Do both Houses of the Parliament have similar functions? Is there a difference in the powers of the two Houses?
Apart from law making, the Parliament is engaged in many other functions. Let us list the functions of the Parliament.: Legislative Function: The Parliament enacts legislations for the country. Despite being the chief law making body, the Parliament often merely approves legislations. The actual task of drafting the bill is performed by the bureaucracy under the supervision of the minister concerned.
The substance and even the timing of the bill are decided by the Cabinet. No major bill is introduced in the Parliament without the approval of the Cabinet. Members other than ministers can also introduce bills but these have no chance of being passed without the support of the government. Control of Executive and ensuring its accountability: Perhaps the most vital function of the Parliament is to ensure that the executive does not overstep its authority and remains responsible to the people who have elected them.
We shall discuss this function in greater detail later in this chapter. Financial Function: Government is about spending a lot of money on various matters. Where does this money come from? Every Check your progress Do you think that composition of Rajya Sabha has protected the position of States of India?
Should indirect election of Rajya Sabha be replaced by direct elections? What would be its advantages and disadvantages? Since 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?