Question

How does the exclusive power given to the Lok Sabha regarding the Money Bill highlight the principle of financial control by the people?

Answer 1

1. Mechanism of Direct Financial Control:
   • Direct Electoral Mandate: Citizens directly elect Lok Sabha members to manage national resources on their behalf.
   • Exclusive Introduction: Money Bills can originate only in the Lok Sabha, preventing non-elected or indirectly elected bodies from initiating taxation.
   • Presidential Recommendation: Money Bills require prior presidential consent, ensuring executive accountability before reaching the floor.
2. Restriction of the Indirectly Elected House:
   • Fourteen-Day Limit: The Rajya Sabha can only delay a Money Bill for a maximum of 14 days.
   • Powerless Review: The Rajya Sabha cannot reject or amend a Money Bill under any circumstances.
   • Absolute Lok Sabha Discretion: The Lok Sabha can accept or completely reject any recommendations made by the Rajya Sabha.
3. Realisation of Popular Sovereignty:
   • No Taxation Without Representation: The government cannot levy any tax without the explicit consent of the citizens’ direct representatives.
   • Custody of Public Funds: All withdrawals from the Consolidated Fund of India require the sole authorisation of the Lok Sabha.
   • Executive Dependency: The ruling government must pass the annual budget in the Lok Sabha to sustain its administrative survival.