UPSC Prelims 2006 Q13: Indian Polity – Parliament & State Legislatures
Consider the following statements:
1. The Rajya Sabha alone has the power to declare that it would be in the national interest for
Parliament to legislate with respect to a matter in the State List.
2. Resolutions approving the Proclamation of Emergency are passed only by the Lok Sabha.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (a) 1 only
Explanation
Rajya Sabha's special power and Emergency approval
| Statement | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Rajya Sabha alone can declare it expedient in the national interest for Parliament to legislate on a State List matter | True | Article 249: Rajya Sabha resolution backed by two-thirds of members present and voting |
| 2. Resolutions approving a Proclamation of Emergency are passed only by the Lok Sabha | False | Article 352 needs approval by both Houses by special majority |
So only statement 1 is correct.
Answer: (a) 1 only.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. Under Article 249, the Rajya Sabha alone can empower Parliament to legislate on a State List subject.
- (b) Incorrect. Statement 2 is false; both Houses must approve an Emergency Proclamation.
- (c) Incorrect. Statement 2 is false, so both cannot be correct.
- (d) Incorrect. Statement 1 is true, so it is not 'neither'.
Key point
Article 249 gives the Rajya Sabha alone the power to authorise Parliament to legislate on the State List, but an Emergency needs approval of both Houses.
Remember
Article 249: Rajya Sabha alone can open State List legislation to Parliament.
Common mistakes
- Assuming the Lok Sabha alone controls Emergency approval.
- Forgetting the two-thirds present and voting requirement under Article 249.
- Confusing Rajya Sabha's special powers with its role on money bills.
Exam tip
Rajya Sabha exclusive powers: Article 249 (State List in national interest) and Article 312 (All-India Services).
Sources
- Constitution of India — Articles 249 and 352
- M. Laxmikanth — Indian Polity (Centre–State Relations)
- M. Laxmikanth — Indian Polity (Parliament)