Law-Making Procedure in the Indian Parliament
The law-making process in India is managed by the Parliament, with two primary types of bills that can be passed: Ordinary Bills and Money Bills. Understanding the distinction and process of each is critical for comprehending how laws are enacted at the national level.
1. Ordinary Bill
- Introduction: An Ordinary Bill can be introduced in either the Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha.
- First Reading: This involves the presentation of the Bill’s title and objectives. There is no debate during this stage.
- Second Reading: A detailed discussion takes place, including a clause-by-clause voting process.
- Third Reading: A final vote on the Bill occurs, determining its passage.
- Transmission: Once passed in one House, the Bill is sent to the other House for consideration.
- Presidential Assent: After being approved by both Houses, the Bill requires the President's assent to become law.
2. Money Bill
- Money Bills are unique in that they can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha, which requires the President's recommendation before their introduction.
- The Rajya Sabha can discuss but cannot reject or amend Money Bills.
- A Money Bill must be passed by the Rajya Sabha within 14 days after its introduction, otherwise, it is deemed to have been passed.
Understanding these processes clarifies how legislation is formed, thus reinforcing the essential checks and balances in the governance structure of the country.