Question

If the Executive is part of the Legislature, how do we say that there is separation of power? (Hint: revisit the section on legislature above.)

Answer 1

In India’s parliamentary system, the Executive, consisting of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, is formed from the Legislature, mainly the Lok Sabha. Although this may appear to reduce the separation of powers, there are several checks and balances to maintain a balance. The Legislature makes laws, the Executive implements them, and the Judiciary ensures that both work within their constitutional limits.

During Question Hour, ministers have to answer questions raised by MPs, which keeps the government accountable. Parliamentary debates also allow MPs to discuss and examine government policies and decisions. Similarly, the government must present the budget to Parliament for approval, while Parliament monitors how public money is spent. Thus, even though the Executive is linked to the Legislature, their functions are different, and checks and balances prevent excessive concentration of power.