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Q.1
WBCS Prelims 2023
In which issue of the following Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha enjoy equal power?
A.Amendment of the Constitution
B.Removal of government
C.Introduction of money bill
D.Creation of new All India Service
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 312 of the Constitution grants Rajya Sabha equal power with Lok Sabha in creating new All India Services, requiring a two-thirds majority resolution in Rajya Sabha. Distractor Analysis: Constitutional amendments under Article 368 require special majority in both houses but Rajya Sabha cannot be bypassed. Removal of government refers to no-confidence motions which only Lok Sabha can initiate. Introduction of money bills under Article 110 is the exclusive privilege of Lok Sabha. Takeaway: Rajya Sabha has special powers over state matters under Article 249 and can authorize Parliament to legislate on State List subjects.
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Q.2
WBCS Prelims 2023
Parliamentary authorization is necessary prior to expenditure from
A.the Public Accounts of India.
B.the Consolidated Fund of India.
C.the Contingency Fund of India.
D.None of the above
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 266(3) of the Constitution mandates that no money shall be withdrawn from the Consolidated Fund of India except under appropriation made by law, meaning parliamentary authorization via the Appropriation Act. Distractor Analysis: The Public Accounts of India holds money received on behalf of the Government, such as departmental receipts, and does not require parliamentary authorization for withdrawal. The Contingency Fund of India is an imprest placed at the President's disposal to meet unforeseen expenditure, with parliamentary approval required only for subsequent reimbursement. Takeaway: The Consolidated Fund comprises all revenues, loans, and public money received by the Government, while the Contingency Fund has a fixed corpus (currently Rs 500 crore) and the Public Account operates under separate accounting rules.
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Q.3
WBCS Prelims 2016WBCS Prelims 2022
Any money bill cannot be introduced in the Parliament without the consent of the
A.Prime Minister of India
B.President of India
C.Speaker of Lok Sabha
D.Finance Minister
Asked 2 times in WBCS. High priority question.
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 117(1) requires the President's recommendation for introducing a money bill in Parliament, making presidential consent mandatory. Distractor Analysis: The Prime Minister leads the government but lacks constitutional authority over money bill introduction. The Speaker certifies whether a bill qualifies as a money bill under Article 110 but does not grant prior consent. The Finance Minister prepares the budget but cannot authorize introduction without presidential assent. Takeaway: Only the President can recommend money bill introduction, while the Speaker decides whether a bill qualifies as a money bill under Article 110.
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Q.4
WBCS Prelims 2022
The Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee is
A.a member of the Ruling Party
B.a member of the Opposition
C.the Speaker of Lok Sabha
D.the Finance Minister
Explanation
Why Correct: By parliamentary convention established in 1967, the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee always comes from the opposition party to ensure independent scrutiny of government expenditure. Distractor Analysis: Ruling party members serve on the committee but cannot chair it to maintain impartiality. The Speaker appoints the chairman but does not hold the position personally. The Finance Minister is excluded from PAC membership to prevent conflict of interest in auditing their own department. Takeaway: The PAC consists of 22 members (15 from Lok Sabha, 7 from Rajya Sabha) and scrutinizes government expenditure after the Comptroller and Auditor General's audit reports.
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Q.5
WBCS Prelims 2022
The ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha
A.the President
B.the Vice-President
C.the Prime Minister
D.the Speaker of Lok Sabha
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 64 of the Constitution designates the Vice-President as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. Distractor Analysis: The President is the head of state but does not chair any parliamentary house. The Prime Minister leads the government but holds no ex-officio parliamentary chairmanship. The Speaker of Lok Sabha presides over the lower house only. Takeaway: The Vice-President also becomes acting President during presidential vacancies under Article 65.
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Q.6
WBCS Prelims 2022
What is the minimum age required by a citizen to be qualified for being a member of the Lok Sabha?
A.21 years
B.25 years
C.30 years
D.35 years
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 84(b) of the Constitution sets 25 years as the minimum age qualification for Lok Sabha membership. Distractor Analysis: 21 years is the voting age under Article 326. 30 years qualifies for Rajya Sabha membership under Article 84(c). 35 years qualifies for President under Article 58(1)(b). Takeaway: For Rajya Sabha, the minimum age is 30 years, and for President it is 35 years.
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Q.7
WBCS Prelims 2022
The quorum requirements in the Rajya Sabha is
A.25 members or one-tenth of total membership, whichever is greater.
B.50 members or one-tenth of total membership, whichever is greater.
C.10 members or one-tenth of total membership, whichever is greater.
D.30 members or one-tenth of total membership, whichever is greater.
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 100(3) specifies that the quorum for conducting business in either House of Parliament is one-tenth of the total membership of that House. Distractor Analysis: 25 members is the quorum for Lok Sabha when one-tenth calculation yields less than 25. 50 members is not a constitutional quorum requirement. 30 members is incorrect for both Houses. Takeaway: For Rajya Sabha with 245 members, the quorum is 25 members (since one-tenth is 24.5, rounded up to 25).
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Q.8
WBCS Prelims 2022
Bills other than money bills are introduced for being passed by the Parliament in
A.Lok Sabha only.
B.Rajya Sabha only.
C.either House of Parliament.
D.a joint sitting of both Houses.
Explanation
Why Correct: Ordinary bills (non-money bills) can be introduced in either the Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha, as per Article 107. Distractor Analysis: Lok Sabha only introduction applies to money bills under Article 110. Rajya Sabha only introduction is incorrect for ordinary bills. Joint sitting occurs only when there is a deadlock between the Houses after the bill has been passed by one House. Takeaway: Money bills must be introduced only in Lok Sabha, while constitutional amendment bills can be introduced in either House.
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Q.9
WBCS Prelims 2021
Members of the Public Accounts Committee are elected by
A.President
B.Speaker
C.The members of the both Houses of Parliament through the method of proportional representation by single transferable vote.
D.Prime Minister
Explanation
Why Correct: Members of the Public Accounts Committee are elected by all members of both Houses of Parliament using proportional representation with a single transferable vote system. Distractor Analysis: The President appoints the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) whose reports the PAC examines. The Speaker of Lok Sabha appoints the PAC Chairman but does not elect its members. The Prime Minister has no direct role in electing or appointing PAC members. Takeaway: The PAC consists of 22 members (15 from Lok Sabha and 7 from Rajya Sabha) and examines government expenditure to ensure it conforms to parliamentary grants and follows financial propriety.
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Q.10
WBCS Prelims 2021
Money Bill is finally determined by
A.Prime Minister
B.Speaker
C.Leader of the opposition party
D.President
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 110(3) gives the Speaker of Lok Sabha the final authority to certify whether a bill qualifies as a Money Bill, making this determination conclusive and not subject to judicial review. Distractor Analysis: The Prime Minister heads the government but lacks constitutional authority over Money Bill classification. The Leader of Opposition holds no formal role in this determination process. The President gives assent to passed bills but does not decide their Money Bill status. Takeaway: Only bills containing exclusively matters listed in Article 110(1) can be Money Bills; if a bill contains other matters, it becomes a Financial Bill under Article 117.
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Q.11
WBCS Prelims 2020
The Chairperson of Rajya Sabha is
A.President of India
B.Vice President of India
C.Prime Minister of India
D.Home Minister of India
Explanation
Why Correct: The Vice President of India serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha under Article 64 of the Constitution. Distractor Analysis: The President of India is the head of state and summons Parliament sessions. The Prime Minister of India heads the Council of Ministers. The Home Minister of India is a cabinet minister responsible for internal security. Takeaway: The Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha is elected from among its members to preside in the Chairman's absence.
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Q.12
WBCS Prelims 2020
According to Indian Constitution, the State Legislatures select the
A.Members of Lok Sabha
B.Members of Rajya Sabha
C.Chief Justice of High Court of the state
D.Attorney General of India
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 80(4) of the Constitution specifies that elected members of State Legislative Assemblies elect Rajya Sabha members through proportional representation by single transferable vote. Distractor Analysis: Lok Sabha members are directly elected by the people through general elections. The President appoints the Chief Justice of a High Court after consulting the Chief Justice of India and the Governor. The President appoints the Attorney General of India, who must be qualified to be a Supreme Court judge. Takeaway: The President nominates 12 Rajya Sabha members with special knowledge in literature, science, art, or social service.
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Q.13
WBCS Prelims 2019
What will follow if a Monetary Bill is substantially amended by the Rajya Sabha ?
A.The Lok Sabha may still proceed with the Bill, accepting or not accepting the recommendations of the Rajya Sabha.
B.The Lok Sabha cannot consider the Bill further.
C.The Lok Sabha may send the Bill to the Rajya Sabha for reconsideration.
D.The President may call a joint sitting for passing the Bill.
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 110 defines Money Bills and specifies that Rajya Sabha can only recommend amendments within 14 days, but Lok Sabha has complete discretion to accept or reject those recommendations. Distractor Analysis: Lok Sabha cannot consider the Bill further contradicts constitutional provisions where Lok Sabha retains final authority over Money Bills. Lok Sabha may send the Bill to Rajya Sabha for reconsideration applies to ordinary bills, not Money Bills. The President may call a joint sitting for passing the Bill applies only when ordinary bills are deadlocked between houses, not for Money Bills. Takeaway: Only Financial Bills under Article 117(1) require Rajya Sabha's full approval; Money Bills under Article 110 give Rajya Sabha merely recommendatory power.
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Q.14
WBCS Prelims 2019
Consider the following statements regarding the Public Accounts Committee:
a) It consists of not more than 25 members of the Lok Sabha.
b) It examines public expenditure not only from legal and formal point of view to discover technical irregularities but also from the point of view of economy, prudence, wisdom and propriety.
c) It examines the report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?
A.1 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.3 only
D.1, 2 and 3
Explanation
Why Correct: Statement (a) is false: the committee has 22 members (15 from Lok Sabha, 7 from Rajya Sabha), not more than 25 from Lok Sabha. Statement (b) is true: the committee's mandate includes examining expenditure for economy, prudence, wisdom, and propriety. Statement (c) is true: the committee examines the CAG reports. Distractor Analysis: Statement (a) is wrong because membership is 22 total with a specific ratio. Functions described in (b) and (c) are core responsibilities of the PAC. Takeaway: PAC strength: 22 (15 LS + 7 RS). It examines CAG reports and goes beyond legality to assess economy and propriety.
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Q.15
WBCS Prelims 2019
Which parliamentary committee consists of not more than 25 members of the Lok Sabha?
A.Committee on Public Accounts
B.Committee on Estimates
C.Committee on Public Undertakings
D.Committee on Subordinate Legislation
Explanation
Why Correct: The Committee on Estimates has 30 members, all from the Lok Sabha, with no Rajya Sabha representation. Its membership is limited to not more than 30 members from the Lok Sabha. Distractor Analysis: The Committee on Public Accounts has 22 members (15 from Lok Sabha, 7 from Rajya Sabha). The Committee on Public Undertakings has 22 members (15 from Lok Sabha, 7 from Rajya Sabha). The Committee on Subordinate Legislation has 15 members (10 from Lok Sabha, 5 from Rajya Sabha). Takeaway: The Estimates Committee is the only financial committee that excludes Rajya Sabha members entirely, making it unique among parliamentary committees.
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Q.16
WBCS Prelims 2009WBCS Prelims 2018
Which one of the following offices has not been provided by the Indian Constitution?
A.Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha
B.Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha
C.Deputy Speaker of State Legislative Assembly
D.Deputy Prime Minister
Asked 2 times in WBCS. High priority question.
Explanation
Why Correct: The Constitution of India contains no provision creating or defining the office of Deputy Prime Minister, making it purely a political appointment at the Prime Minister's discretion. Distractor Analysis: Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha is established under Article 89 to preside in the Chairman's absence. Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha is provided under Article 93 to perform the Speaker's duties when vacant. Deputy Speaker of State Legislative Assembly is established under Article 178 with similar functions at the state level. Takeaway: Several Deputy Prime Ministers have served in India's history, including Sardar Patel and L.K. Advani, but all held the position through convention rather than constitutional mandate.
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Q.17
WBCS Prelims 2017
To pass a Money Bill in the Parliament which of the following is not necessary?
A.Approval of the Lok Sabha
B.Approval of Finance Minister
C.Approval of Rajya Sabha
D.None of the Above
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 110 defines Money Bills and Article 109 specifies their legislative process, which requires only Lok Sabha approval; Rajya Sabha can only make recommendations within 14 days, and Finance Minister approval is not a constitutional requirement. Distractor Analysis: Lok Sabha approval is mandatory for all Money Bills as they originate only in the Lower House. Rajya Sabha cannot reject or amend Money Bills but can recommend amendments, which Lok Sabha may accept or reject. 'None of the Above' is incorrect because one option (Finance Minister approval) is indeed unnecessary. Takeaway: Only the Speaker of Lok Sabha certifies whether a bill is a Money Bill under Article 110, and this certification is final and cannot be questioned in any court.
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Q.18
WBCS Prelims 2017
The chairman of Rajya Sabha is
A.the leader of the opposition
B.nominated by the President of India
C.the Vice President of India
D.nominated by the Vice – President of India
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 89(1) of the Constitution designates the Vice President of India as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. Distractor Analysis: The Leader of the Opposition is a parliamentary position for the largest opposition party, not a presiding officer. The President appoints the Vice President but does not directly nominate the Rajya Sabha Chairman. Takeaway: The Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha is elected by the members from amongst themselves, while the Vice President also serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the Council of States.
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Q.19
WBCS Prelims 2016
What is the number of members in the Public Accounts Committee of the Lok Sabha ?
A.7
B.10
C.15
D.20
Explanation
Why Correct: The Public Accounts Committee has 22 total members, with 15 members elected from the Lok Sabha and 7 members from the Rajya Sabha. Distractor Analysis: 7 represents the number of Rajya Sabha members on the committee, 10 is a common incorrect guess, and 20 is close to the total but not the Lok Sabha-specific count. Takeaway: The committee's chairperson is always from the opposition party, and it examines government expenditure after it has occurred (post-audit).
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Q.20
WBCS Prelims 2015
The Chairman of the Rajya Sabha is
A.The speaker of the Lok Sabha
B.The President of India
C.The Prime Minister of India
D.The Vice-President of India
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 63 of the Indian Constitution designates the Vice-President of India as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. Distractor Analysis: The Speaker of the Lok Sabha presides over the lower house. The President of India is the head of state and not a member of either house. The Prime Minister leads the executive and is typically a member of the Lok Sabha. Takeaway: The Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha is elected from among its members and presides in the Chairman's absence.
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Q.21
WBCS Prelims 2015
The leader of the Opposition in the Lok sabha enjoys the rank of a –
A.Central Minister
B.Governor
C.High Court Judge
D.Supreme Court Judge
Explanation
Why Correct: The Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha is accorded the status and salary equivalent to that of a Cabinet Minister under the Salary and Allowances of Leaders of Opposition in Parliament Act, 1977. Distractor Analysis: Governors are constitutional heads of states appointed by the President. High Court Judges serve in state-level judiciary. Supreme Court Judges serve in the apex court. Takeaway: To be recognized as the Leader of the Opposition, a party must have at least 10% of the total seats in the Lok Sabha.
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Q.22
WBCS Prelims 2015
The term of office of a Rajya Sabha member is
A.4 years
B.5 years
C.6 years
D.8 years
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 83(1) of the Constitution fixes the term of a Rajya Sabha member at six years. Distractor Analysis: Four years is the term for a Panchayat member under the 73rd Amendment. Five years is the term for a Lok Sabha member under Article 83(2). Eight years has no constitutional basis for any elected legislative office. Takeaway: Rajya Sabha is a permanent house with one-third of its members retiring every two years, ensuring continuity.
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Q.23
WBCS Prelims 2014
Find out the incorrect statement.
The Council of States
(A) has no power over money bill.
(B) has power over money bill.
(C) has no effective control over the Executive.
(D) is presided over by the Vice President of India.
A.has no power over money bill.
B.has power over money bill.
C.has no effective control over the Executive.
D.is presided over by the Vice President of India.
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 110 defines money bills, and Article 109 specifies that the Rajya Sabha cannot amend or reject them, only make recommendations. Distractor Analysis: The Rajya Sabha indeed has no power over money bills. The Rajya Sabha has limited control over the Executive since the Council of Ministers is collectively responsible only to the Lok Sabha. The Vice President of India serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. Takeaway: Money bills can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha, and the Speaker's decision on whether a bill qualifies as a money bill is final and cannot be questioned in any court.
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Q.24
WBCS Prelims 2011
Which of the following committees is concerned with the regularity of the expenditure of the Government ?
A.Public Accounts Committee
B.Estimates Committee
C.Committee on Public Undertakings
D.All of the above
Explanation
Why Correct: The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) examines government expenditure for legality, regularity, and economy, auditing reports from the Comptroller and Auditor General. Distractor Analysis: The Estimates Committee examines budget estimates for efficiency and economy before expenditure occurs. The Committee on Public Undertakings examines reports and accounts of public sector enterprises. While all three are financial committees, only PAC specifically audits expenditure regularity. Takeaway: PAC is the oldest parliamentary committee (1921), chaired by an opposition member since 1967, and has 22 members (15 from Lok Sabha, 7 from Rajya Sabha).
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Q.25
WBCS Prelims 2011
The Speaker of the Lok Sabha
A.Votes only in case of tie
B.Votes like any other member of the Lok Sabha
C.Has no right to vote
D.Has two votes – one in ordinary course and another in case of tie
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 100(1) states the Speaker does not vote in the first instance but exercises a casting vote only when there is an equality of votes. Distractor Analysis: Voting like any other member would violate the Speaker's impartiality and constitutional role. Having no right to vote ignores the Speaker's casting vote power in tie situations. Two votes would be unconstitutional as Article 100 provides only for a casting vote in case of equality. Takeaway: The Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha votes in the first instance as a regular member but cannot exercise a casting vote, while the Chairman of Rajya Sabha (Vice-President) votes only in case of tie like the Speaker.
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Q.26
WBCS Prelims 2009
The Opposition Party status is accorded to a political party in the Loksabha only if it captures at least
A.5 per cent seats
B.10 per cent seats
C.15 per cent seats
D.20 per cent seats
Explanation
Why Correct: The official requirement for a political party to be recognized as the Opposition Party in the Lok Sabha is securing at least 10% of the total seats. Distractor Analysis: 5% is the threshold for a party to be recognized as a national party by the Election Commission. 15% is not a standard parliamentary threshold. 20% is not a standard parliamentary threshold. Takeaway: The Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha receives a salary and allowances equivalent to a cabinet minister, and is a member of key committees like the Public Accounts Committee.
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Q.27
WBCS Prelims 2009
The Union Budget is laid before the two Houses of Parliament in accordance with Article No. ____ of Indian Constitution.
A.73
B.112
C.360
D.370
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 112 mandates the President to cause the Annual Financial Statement, commonly known as the Union Budget, to be laid before both Houses of Parliament. Distractor Analysis: Article 73 deals with the extent of executive power of the Union. Article 360 provides for the proclamation of Financial Emergency. Article 370 granted special autonomous status to Jammu and Kashmir, which was abrogated in 2019. Takeaway: Article 110 defines a Money Bill, which can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha has limited powers regarding it.
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Q.28
WBCS Prelims 2008
A Money Bill can originate
A.In either House of Parliament
B.Only in the Lok Sabha
C.Only in the Rajya Sabha
D.Only in a joint sitting of the two Houses
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 110(1) explicitly states that a Money Bill can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha, reflecting the principle of popular control over taxation and expenditure. Distractor Analysis: Ordinary bills can originate in either House under Article 107. Rajya Sabha cannot initiate Money Bills but can recommend amendments within 14 days, which Lok Sabha may accept or reject. Joint sittings under Article 108 resolve deadlocks on ordinary bills, not Money Bills. Takeaway: The Speaker's certification as a Money Bill is final under Article 110(3), making this determination non-justiciable - a key feature tested in constitutional law questions.
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Q.29
WBCS Prelims 2008
Which of the following statements correctly describes a 'hung Parliament'?
A.A Parliament in which no party has a clear majority
B.The Prime Minister has resigned but the Parliament is not dissolved
C.The Parliament lacks the quorum to conduct business
D.A lame duck Parliament
Explanation
Why Correct: A hung Parliament occurs when no single political party or pre-election coalition commands an absolute majority of seats in the legislature. Distractor Analysis: The Prime Minister resigning without Parliament dissolution describes a caretaker government scenario. Lacking quorum refers to insufficient members present for conducting official business. A lame duck Parliament describes a legislature nearing the end of its term with reduced effectiveness. Takeaway: In a hung Parliament scenario, parties typically engage in post-election coalition building or form minority governments with external support arrangements.
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Q.30
WBCS Prelims 2008
In which House of the Parliament, the Presiding Officer is not a member of the House ?
A.Lok Sabha
B.Rajya Sabha
C.Vidhan Sabha
D.Vidhan Parishad
Explanation
Why Correct: The Vice President of India serves as the ex-officio Chairman of Rajya Sabha, who is not an elected member of Rajya Sabha but holds office separately. Distractor Analysis: Lok Sabha's Speaker is elected from among its own members. Vidhan Sabha's Speaker is elected from among its members. Vidhan Parishad's Chairman is elected from among its members. Takeaway: The Vice President's role as Rajya Sabha Chairman is unique among parliamentary presiding officers, creating a constitutional separation between the executive and legislative branches.
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Q.31
WBCS Prelims 2006
Who presides over the Rajya Sabha?
A.President
B.Vice-President
C.Prime Minister
D.Home Minister
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 89 of the Constitution designates the Vice-President as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. Distractor Analysis: President summons and prorogues Parliament but does not preside over either House. Prime Minister leads the Council of Ministers and represents the executive in Lok Sabha. Home Minister heads the Ministry of Home Affairs and is a member of the Council of Ministers. Takeaway: Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha, elected from among its members, presides in the Vice-President's absence.
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Q.32
WBCS Prelims 2006
Rajya Sabha
A.Does control the Council of Ministers
B.Approves the action of the Ministers
C.Only discuss about the Ministers
D.Does not control the Council of Ministers
Explanation
Why Correct: The Rajya Sabha (Council of States) lacks direct control over the Council of Ministers, as the Council of Ministers is collectively responsible only to the Lok Sabha (House of the People) under Article 75(3) of the Constitution. Distractor Analysis: The Rajya Sabha can discuss and debate ministerial actions but cannot approve or control them. The Lok Sabha holds the exclusive power to control the Council of Ministers through motions of confidence and no-confidence. Takeaway: The Lok Sabha alone can remove the Council of Ministers via a vote of no-confidence, while the Rajya Sabha can only recommend money bills and discuss non-money legislation.
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Q.33
WBCS Prelims 2005
Rajya Sabha is presided over by the
A.President
B.Prime Minister
C.Vice-President
D.Home Minister
Explanation
Why Correct: The Vice-President of India serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha under Article 64 of the Constitution. Distractor Analysis: The President is the head of state but does not preside over either house of Parliament. The Prime Minister leads the government in the Lok Sabha. The Home Minister is a cabinet member with no constitutional role in presiding over the Rajya Sabha. Takeaway: The Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha is elected from among its members and presides in the absence of the Vice-President.
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Q.34
WBCS Prelims 2005
Minimum age of an Indian citizen to be elected to Lok Sabha is
A.18 years
B.20 years
C.25 years
D.35 years
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 84(b) of the Indian Constitution sets the minimum age for Lok Sabha membership at 25 years. Distractor Analysis: 18 years is the voting age under Article 326. 20 years is not a constitutional age threshold for any national office. 35 years is the minimum age for President under Article 58(1)(b). Takeaway: Minimum age for Rajya Sabha is 30 years under Article 80(1)(a), and for President it's 35 years.
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Q.35
WBCS Prelims 2005
The first speaker of Lok Sabha was
A.G. S. Dhillon
B.Hukam Singh
C.Ananthasayanam Ayyangar
D.Ganesh Vasudeo Mavalankar
Explanation
Why Correct: Ganesh Vasudeo Mavalankar served as the first Speaker of the Lok Sabha from 15 May 1952 to 27 February 1956. Distractor Analysis: G. S. Dhillon was the Speaker from 1969 to 1975. Hukam Singh served from 1967 to 1969. Ananthasayanam Ayyangar was the first Deputy Speaker and later Speaker from 1956 to 1962. Takeaway: M. A. Ayyangar succeeded Mavalankar as Speaker, and the first woman Speaker was Meira Kumar in 2009.
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Q.36
WBCS Prelims 2004
To be granted the status of the official opposition in a legislature a political party must have at least.
A.10 percent of elected members
B.15 percent of elected members
C.5 percent of elected members
D.7 percent of elected members.
Explanation
Why Correct: The Salary and Allowances of Leaders of Opposition in Parliament Act, 1977 requires at least 10% of total membership strength for official opposition status in Lok Sabha and state legislatures. Distractor Analysis: 15% of seats in Lok Sabha qualifies a party for national party recognition by the Election Commission. 5% of valid votes polled makes a party eligible for state funding of election expenses under the Election Symbols Order. 7% has no statutory basis in Indian parliamentary procedure for opposition recognition. Takeaway: The leader of opposition receives cabinet minister rank and sits on key appointment committees for CBI, CVC, Lokpal, and NHRC positions.
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Q.37
WBCS Prelims 2004
The total strength of the Rajya Sabha cannot exceed
A.200 members
B.250 members
C.300 members
D.350 members
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 80(1) of the Indian Constitution specifies that the Rajya Sabha cannot exceed 250 members, with 238 representing states and union territories and 12 nominated by the President. Distractor Analysis: 200 members is the approximate current strength (245 as of 2024), 300 members is the Lok Sabha's maximum strength, and 350 members is not a constitutional limit for either house. Takeaway: The Lok Sabha's maximum strength is 552 members (530 from states, 20 from union territories, 2 Anglo-Indians nominated), while the Rajya Sabha's is 250 members.
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Q.38
WBCS Prelims 2003
The term of a member of the Rajya Sabha is
A.Two years
B.Three years
C.Four years
D.Six years
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 83(1) of the Constitution sets the term of a Rajya Sabha member at six years, with one-third of members retiring every two years. Distractor Analysis: Two years marks the staggered retirement cycle for one-third of members. Three years is not a constitutional term for any parliamentary house. Four years is the term for Lok Sabha members under normal circumstances. Takeaway: Rajya Sabha is a permanent house with no dissolution, unlike Lok Sabha which has a maximum five-year term unless dissolved earlier.
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Q.39
WBCS Prelims 2002
The Parliament of India consists of
A.The President, Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha
B.The Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha
C.The Lok Sabha, Speaker and Prime Minister
D.None of the above
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 79 of the Constitution defines Parliament as the President, the Council of States (Rajya Sabha), and the House of the People (Lok Sabha). Distractor Analysis: The Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha alone exclude the President, who is an integral part of Parliament. The Lok Sabha, Speaker, and Prime Minister mix legislative and executive offices, omitting both the Rajya Sabha and President. Takeaway: The President summons, prorogues, and addresses Parliament, and must assent to bills for them to become law.
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Q.40
WBCS Prelims 2001
Which of the following bodies can be prorogued but cannot be dissolved?
A.Governing Council of a Union Territory
B.Municipal Corporation
C.Lok Sabha
D.Rajya Sabha
Explanation
Why Correct: The Rajya Sabha is a permanent house where one-third of members retire every two years, allowing it to be prorogued by the President but never dissolved. Distractor Analysis: The Governing Council of a Union Territory is an administrative body subject to dissolution. Municipal Corporations operate under fixed terms and can be dissolved under specific legal provisions. The Lok Sabha has a maximum five-year term and can be both prorogued and dissolved, with dissolution ending its entire membership. Takeaway: Unlike the Lok Sabha, the Rajya Sabha's continuity ensures legislative stability, with only partial renewal every two years.
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Q.41
WBCS Prelims 2000
The Lok Sabha in India can be dissolved by the
A.Chief Justice of the Supreme Court
B.Prime Minister
C.President of India on the advice of the Prime Minister
D.Speaker of the Lok Sabha on the advice of the Prime Minister
Explanation
Why Correct: Article 85(2)(b) of the Constitution empowers the President to dissolve the Lok Sabha, but this power is exercised only on the advice of the Council of Ministers headed by the Prime Minister. Distractor Analysis: The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court has no role in parliamentary dissolution. The Prime Minister alone cannot dissolve the Lok Sabha; only advises the President. The Speaker of the Lok Sabha presides over parliamentary proceedings but lacks dissolution authority. Takeaway: The President's power to summon, prorogue, and dissolve Parliament under Article 85 is exercised on ministerial advice, making it a formal executive action rather than discretionary.
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Q.42
WBCS Prelims 2000
From the point of view of dignity, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha is equivalent to
A.Central Minister
B.State Minister
C.Chief Justice of a High Court
D.Chief Justice of the Supreme Court
Explanation
Why Correct: The Speaker of the Lok Sabha ranks seventh in the Indian order of precedence, equal to the Chief Justice of India, reflecting equivalent constitutional dignity and protocol status. Distractor Analysis: Central Ministers rank lower at ninth position in the order of precedence. State Ministers rank even lower and are not in the top ten. Chief Justices of High Courts rank below the Speaker at eighth position. Takeaway: The order of precedence places the President first, Vice-President second, Prime Minister third, Governors fourth, former Presidents fifth, Deputy Prime Minister sixth, then Speaker and Chief Justice of India jointly at seventh.
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