UPSC Prelims 2013 Q1: Indian Polity – Parliament & State Legislatures
What will follow if a Money 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
Answer: (a) The Lok Sabha may still proceed with the Bill, accepting or not accepting the recommendations of the Rajya Sabha
Explanation
Money Bill amended by the Rajya Sabha
On a Money Bill, the Rajya Sabha can only make recommendations (Article 109).
The Lok Sabha is free to accept or reject them.
| Step | Rule |
|---|---|
| Introduction | Only in the Lok Sabha, on the President's recommendation |
| Certification | The Speaker certifies it as a Money Bill; his decision is final (Article 110) |
| Rajya Sabha | Must return it within 14 days, with or without recommendations |
| If recommendations are rejected | The Bill is deemed passed in the form passed by the Lok Sabha |
The options checked:
| Option | Verdict |
|---|---|
| (a) Lok Sabha may proceed, accepting or not accepting the recommendations | Correct |
| (b) Lok Sabha cannot consider the Bill further | Incorrect |
| (c) Lok Sabha may send the Bill back for reconsideration | Incorrect |
| (d) President may call a joint sitting | Incorrect; no joint sitting on a Money Bill |
Answer: (a) The Lok Sabha may still proceed, accepting or not accepting the recommendations.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. The Lok Sabha may proceed, accepting or rejecting the Rajya Sabha's recommendations.
- (b) Incorrect. The Lok Sabha can consider the Bill further; the Rajya Sabha cannot block it.
- (c) Incorrect. There is no sending back to the Rajya Sabha for reconsideration.
- (d) Incorrect. A joint sitting is not allowed for a Money Bill.
Key point
Money Bill (Articles 109, 110): Lok Sabha only; Speaker certifies; Rajya Sabha has 14 days and can only recommend; no joint sitting.
Remember
Money Bill: Rajya Sabha recommends, Lok Sabha decides.
Common mistakes
- Thinking the Rajya Sabha can amend a Money Bill.
- Expecting a joint sitting to settle the difference.
- Forgetting the 14-day limit on the Rajya Sabha.
Exam tip
On money, the Lok Sabha has the last word.
Sources
- Constitution of India — Articles 109 and 110
- M. Laxmikanth — Indian Polity, chapter on Parliament