Prelims 2024 · Polity and Constitution · Question 45
With reference to the Parliament of India, consider the following statements: 1. Prorogation of a House by the President of India does not require the advice of the Council of Ministers. 2. Prorogation of a House is generally done after the House is adjourned sine die but there is no bar to the President of India proroguing the House which is in session. 3. Dissolution of the Lok Sabha is done by the President of India who, save in exceptional circumstances, does so on the advice of the Council of Ministers. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer
2 and 3
1. Incorrect. Prorogation is a formal act of the President, but under the parliamentary system the President acts on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers; it is not a personal discretion.
2. Correct. A House is generally prorogued after adjournment sine die, but prorogation can also be ordered even when the House is technically still in session.
3. Correct. Dissolution of the Lok Sabha is by the President and, except in exceptional situations, is done on the advice of the Council of Ministers.
Therefore, statements 2 and 3 only are correct.