Question

Apart from making laws, which of the following is/are also power(s) of the Parliament?

• A. Exercising control over the government
• B. Controlling finance of the country
• C. Serving as the highest forum of discussion and debate
• D. All the above

Answer 1

The correct option is D All the above

Apart from lawmaking, the Parliament is engaged in many other functions. Let us list the functions of the Parliament:

• Legislative Function: The Parliament enacts legislations for the country. Despite being the chief lawmaking body, the Parliament often merely approves legislations.
  
• Control of Executive and ensuring its accountability: Perhaps the most vital function of the Parliament is to ensure that the executive does not overstep its authority and remains responsible to the people who have elected them.
  
• Financial Function: The financial powers of the Parliament involve the grant of resources to the government to implement its programmes.
  
• Representation: Parliament represents the divergent views of members from different regional, social, economic, religious groups of different parts of the country.
  
• Debating Function: The Parliament is the highest platform for debate in the country. There is no limitation on its power of discussion. Members are free to speak on any matter without fear
  
• Constituent Function: The Parliament has the power of discussing and enacting changes to the Constitution. The constituent powers of both the houses are similar. All constitutional amendments have to be approved by a special majority of both Houses.
  
• Electoral functions: The Parliament also performs some electoral functions. It elects the President and Vice President of India.
  
• Judicial functions: The judicial functions of the Parliament include considering the proposals for the removal of President, Vice-President, and Judges of High Courts and Supreme Court.