Question

Discuss the responsibility of the Union Council of Ministers before the Indian Parliament.

Answer 1

The Union Council of Ministers in India is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha, the lower house of Parliament. This principle ensures parliamentary accountability, which is a core feature of a parliamentary democracy.

1. Collective responsibility:

   • According to Article 75(3) of the Indian Constitution, the Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha.
   • This means that if the Lok Sabha passes a vote of no confidence, the entire Council, including the Prime Minister, must resign.
   • All ministers stand or fall together, and they must support all Cabinet decisions publicly, even if they personally disagree.

2. Individual responsibility:

   • Each minister is also individually responsible for the functioning of their ministry.
   • If a minister is involved in misconduct or fails in their duties, they can be questioned, censured, or even removed.

3. Parliamentary oversight:

   • Ministers are required to answer questions, participate in debates, and provide information in Parliament.
   • They must explain and justify policies, decisions, and administrative actions when asked.

4. Confidence of the house:

   • The Council of Ministers remains in office only as long as it enjoys the confidence of the Lok Sabha.
   • Loss of majority or defeat on major bills may also be treated as a loss of confidence.