Money Bill in the Legislative Process
In India’s parliamentary structure, a Money Bill is a special type of bill that primarily concerns taxation, public expenditure, and financial matters. Key characteristics of Money Bills include:
- Introduction: A Money Bill can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha and cannot be introduced in the Rajya Sabha.
- Presidential Recommendation: Before its introduction, a Money Bill must receive a recommendation from the President of India. This ensures that the executive supports the financial legislation before legislative discussion.
- Role of Rajya Sabha: Once introduced, the Rajya Sabha can discuss the bill; however, it cannot reject or amend it. This establishes a clear financial legislative pathway where the Lok Sabha retains primary control over money matters, reinforcing its role as the elected body.
- Timeframe for Passage: The Money Bill must be passed by the Lok Sabha within 14 days. If not passed within this timeframe, it is deemed rejected, underscoring the urgency and importance of financial legislation in governance.
The significance of the Money Bill lies in maintaining the Lok Sabha's supremacy in financial matters as it represents the voice of the citizens, thereby ensuring government accountability concerning fiscal policies.