Question

Discuss the major conventions which have developed in the Indian Political System.

Answer 1

1. Prime Minister as the Real Head: Though the Constitution gives the President executive powers, it is a convention that the Prime Minister is the real executive head.
2. President Acts on Advice of Council of Ministers: The President must act on the advice of the Council of Ministers, led by the Prime Minister, even though early practice suggested some discretion.
3. Leader of the Largest Party Invited to Form Government: It is conventionally accepted that the President invites the leader of the majority party or coalition in Lok Sabha to form the government.
4. Governor’s Role in State Politics: The Governor appoints the leader of the majority in the State Assembly as the Chief Minister, based on established convention.
5. Speaker’s Neutrality: The Speaker of the Lok Sabha is expected to act impartially, despite being elected on a party ticket.
6. Collective Responsibility: Even though not detailed in every situation, it is convention that the Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha.
7. Resignation after Defeat in Vote of Confidence: If the government loses a vote of confidence, the Prime Minister resigns by convention, although not stated explicitly.
8. Finance Minister Presents Budget: While any minister could theoretically present it, it is a convention that the Finance Minister does so every year.