UPSC Prelims 2003 · General Studies
Question 66: Polity and Governance
Which one of the following Bills must be passed by each House of the Indian Parliament separately, by special majority?
AnswerThe answer is (d).
A Constitution Amendment Bill under Article 368 must be passed in each House separately by a special majority: a majority of the total membership of the House and at least two-thirds of the members present and voting. Ordinary Bills need only a simple majority, and a joint sitting can settle a deadlock on them. A Money Bill is passed by the Lok Sabha, with the Rajya Sabha limited to recommendations. A joint sitting cannot be used for a constitutional amendment.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) An ordinary Bill needs only a simple majority, and a joint sitting can resolve a deadlock.
- (b) A Money Bill is passed by the Lok Sabha; the Rajya Sabha may only make recommendations.
- (c) A Finance Bill of the ordinary type is passed by a simple majority.
- (d) Correct: a Constitution Amendment Bill needs a special majority in each House separately.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2003, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.