UPSC Prelims 2003 Q122: Indian Polity – Union & State Executive
Consider the following statements: In the electoral college for Presidential Election in
India.
1. The value of the vote of an elected Member of Legislative Assembly equals
2. The value of the vote of an elected Member of Parliament equals
3. There were more than 5000 members in the latest election
Which of these statements is/are correct?
- (a) 1 and 2
- (b) Only 2
- (c) 1 and 3
- (d) Only 3
Answer: (b) Only 2
Explanation
Electoral college for the Presidential election
| Statement | Verdict |
|---|---|
| 1. The value of the vote of an elected MLA is equal | False: it depends on the population of the State and the number of MLAs |
| 2. The value of the vote of an elected MP is equal | True — the same for every MP (708 at that time) |
| 3. More than 5000 members in the latest election | False: about 4,900 electors (776 MPs and about 4,100 MLAs) |
Only statement 2 is correct.
Answer: (b) Only 2.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. MLAs' votes have different values in different States.
- (b) CORRECT. Only statement 2 is correct.
- (c) Incorrect. Statements 1 and 3 are false.
- (d) Incorrect. Statement 3 is false.
Key point
MP vote value = total value of MLAs' votes / elected MPs; MLA value = population / (1000 x MLAs).
Remember
Every elected MP's vote has the same value in the Presidential election.
Common mistakes
- Thinking all MLAs' votes are equal.
- Counting the nominated members as electors.
- Overestimating the number of electors.
Exam tip
The Presidential electors numbered about 4,900 then.
Sources
- Constitution of India — Article 55
- M. Laxmikanth — Indian Polity (President)