UPSC Prelims 2004 Q8: Indian Polity – Parliament & State Legislatures
Consider the following statements:
1. The Speaker of Lok Sabha has the power to adjourn the House sine die but, on prorogation, it is
only the President who can summon the House.
2. Unless sooner dissolved or there is an extension of the term, there is an automatic dissolution
of the Lok Sabha by efflux of time, at the end of the period of five years, even if no formal order
of dissolution is issued by the President.
3. The Speaker of Lok Sabha continues in office even after the dissolution of the House and until
immediately before the first meeting of the House.
Which of these statements given above are correct?
- (a) 1 and 2
- (b) 2 and 3
- (c) 1 and 3
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
Lok Sabha: Speaker, prorogation and dissolution
| Statement | Verdict |
|---|---|
| 1. Speaker adjourns sine die; President summons after prorogation | True |
| 2. Automatic dissolution at the end of five years | True |
| 3. Speaker continues till the first meeting of the new House | True — Article 94 |
All three statements are correct.
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Statement 3 is also correct.
- (b) Incorrect. Statement 1 is also correct.
- (c) Incorrect. Statement 2 is also correct.
- (d) CORRECT. All three statements are correct.
Key point
Speaker continues after dissolution; Deputy Speaker too in effect until the new House meets.
Remember
The Speaker continues in office until the new Lok Sabha meets.
Common mistakes
- Thinking the Speaker vacates office at dissolution.
- Forgetting that dissolution can be by efflux of time.
- Mixing adjournment with prorogation.
Exam tip
Adjourned by the Speaker; prorogued by the President; dissolved by the President.
Sources
- Constitution of India — Articles 85, 94 and 83
- M. Laxmikanth — Indian Polity (Parliament)