Q91 · UPSC Prelims 2015 · Set A · Polity and Governance

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There is a Parliamentary System of Government in India because the

A Lok Sabha is elected directly by the people
B Parliament can amend the Constitution
C Rajya Sabha cannot be dissolved
D Council of Ministers is responsible to the Lok Sabha

Correct answer: (d) Council of Ministers is responsible to the Lok Sabha

Explanation

  1. A

    Lok Sabha is elected directly by the people

    Direct election of the Lok Sabha is a feature of a democratic lower house; presidential systems also elect a legislature directly. It does not by itself prove a parliamentary executive. This option is not the key.

  2. B

    Parliament can amend the Constitution

    Constitutional amendment power exists in many forms of government. It does not define the parliamentary system. This option is therefore wrong.

  3. C

    Rajya Sabha cannot be dissolved

    A permanent second chamber is found in several constitutions; it is not the test of parliamentary government. This option is not the key.

  4. D

    Council of Ministers is responsible to the Lok Sabha

    In a parliamentary system the Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the popular House. Article 75(3) makes the Union CoM responsible to the Lok Sabha. That is the defining feature. This option is the official key.

Summary. Official key is (d) Council of Ministers is responsible to the Lok Sabha. Parliamentary government means the executive holds office while it commands the lower house. Direct elections, amendment power and an undissolved Rajya Sabha are true facts but not that definition. Collective responsibility is the textbook test. Only (d) states it.

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