UPSC Prelims 2002 Q114: Indian Polity – Parliament & State Legislatures
The term of the Lok Sabha
- (a) cannot be extended under any circumstances
- (b) can be extended by six months at a time
- (c) can be extended by one year at a time during the proclamation of emergency
- (d) can be extended for two years at a time during the proclamation of emergency
Answer: (c) can be extended by one year at a time during the proclamation of emergency
Explanation
Extension of the term of the Lok Sabha
| Option | Constitutional position |
|---|---|
| Cannot be extended under any circumstances | False — Article 83(2) allows extension |
| Extended by six months at a time | False — the extension is for one year, not six months |
| Extended by one year at a time during a Proclamation of Emergency | True — Article 83(2) |
| Extended by two years at a time | False — one year at a time |
Under Article 83(2), the term of the Lok Sabha, normally five years, may be extended by Parliament by law for one year at a time during a Proclamation of Emergency, and not beyond six months after the Emergency ends.
Answer: (c) can be extended by one year at a time during the proclamation of emergency.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. The term can be extended during a national emergency.
- (b) Incorrect. The extension is by one year, not six months.
- (c) CORRECT. Article 83(2) allows one year at a time.
- (d) Incorrect. The extension is one year at a time, not two.
Key point
Article 83(2): extension for one year at a time during an Emergency, up to six months after it ceases; used in 1976-77.
Remember
Lok Sabha: five years, extendable one year at a time in Emergency.
Common mistakes
- Choosing six months at a time, the limit after the Emergency.
- Believing the term is fixed with no exception.
- Doubling the extension to two years.
Exam tip
One year at a time while the Emergency lasts, then six months at most after it ends.
Sources
- Constitution of India — Article 83
- M. Laxmikanth — Indian Polity