2015 GS Paper I, all questions
UPSC Prelims 2015 · GS Paper I
Question 91: Polity and Governance
There is a Parliamentary System of Government in India because the
aLok Sabha is elected directly by the people
bParliament can amend the Constitution
cRajya Sabha cannot be dissolved
dCouncil of Ministers is responsible to the Lok Sabha
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (d).
The essence of the parliamentary system is that the executive is responsible to the legislature. In India the Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha under Article 75(3), and it holds office only as long as it enjoys the Lok Sabha's confidence. Direct election, power to amend the Constitution and a House that cannot be dissolved do not define it.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) A directly elected lower House is also found in presidential systems, so it does not define the system.
- (b) Parliament's power to amend the Constitution is not the mark of a parliamentary government.
- (c) The Rajya Sabha not being dissolved does not make a parliamentary system.
- (d) Correct: ministerial responsibility to the Lok Sabha defines the parliamentary system.
Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2015, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.