ASKiIMAN™ ARCHIVE / INDIAN POLITY
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Legislative Powers

The Executive Anchor of Parliament

PART I — SESSIONS & ASSENT

ARTICLE 85

Summoning & Prorogation

  • The President summons both Houses of Parliament to meet. (Maximum gap between two sessions cannot exceed 6 months).
  • Has the power to **prorogue** (end the session) of either House.
  • Has the exclusive power to **dissolve** the Lok Sabha (which triggers general elections).
ARTICLE 111

Assent to Bills

  • A bill passed by Parliament becomes law ONLY after receiving the President's assent.
  • **Options:** Give assent, Withhold assent (Absolute Veto), or Return the bill for reconsideration (Suspensive Veto).
  • **Exception:** Cannot return a Money Bill. Must give assent if a returned bill is passed again.

PART II — ORDINANCES & NOMINATIONS

ARTICLE 123

Ordinance Power

  • Can promulgate ordinances when **either or both Houses are not in session**, if immediate action is necessary.
  • Ordinances have the exact same force and effect as an Act of Parliament.
  • Must be approved by Parliament within **6 weeks** of its reassembly, otherwise it ceases to operate.
ARTICLE 80 & 87

Addresses & Nominations

  • **Special Address:** Addresses both Houses together at the first session after a general election, and the first session of each year.
  • **Nomination:** Nominates **12 members** to the Rajya Sabha having special knowledge in Literature, Science, Art, or Social Service.
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