Powers and functions of Parliament

1. Legislative Powers

1. The Parliament has the authority to make laws on subjects listed in the Union List and the Concurrent List.
2. In matters of national interest, Parliament can legislate on subjects in the State List under specific circumstances, such as a Rajya Sabha resolution (Article 249).
3. Parliament has the power to create or abolish Union Territories and alter state boundaries (Article 3).
4. It also legislates on issues under residuary powers, which are not enumerated in the three lists (Article 248).

2. Financial Powers

1. The Parliament has exclusive control over the Consolidated Fund of India.
2. It approves the annual Union Budget, which includes the allocation of funds and taxation policies.
3. Only the Lok Sabha can introduce and pass money bills.
4. Parliamentary approval is necessary for borrowing funds or spending money from the Contingency Fund.
5. It oversees financial performance through discussions, cut motions, and audits by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).

3. Executive Powers

1. The Parliament ensures that the executive is accountable to it.
2. Members exercise control over the government through questions, zero hour, and adjournment motions.
3. The Lok Sabha can pass a no-confidence motion to remove the Council of Ministers.
4. It approves key appointments such as the President, Vice President, and others through electoral processes.

4. Amendment Powers

1. The Parliament has the authority to amend the Constitution under Article 368.
2. Amendments can be made by a simple majority, special majority, or special majority with state ratification.
3. Landmark amendments include the 42nd Amendment (1976) and the 101st Amendment (GST).

5. Electoral Functions

1. Members of Parliament form part of the Electoral College for the election of the President.
2. The Parliament also participates in the election of the Vice President.

6. Judicial Functions

1. The Parliament has the authority to impeach the President for violation of the Constitution (Article 61).
2. It can also remove judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts on grounds of proven misbehavior or incapacity.
3. Parliament can punish individuals for breach of privilege or contempt of its authority.

7. Deliberative Functions

1. Parliament serves as a platform for discussing critical issues of national importance.
2. Members deliberate on policies, social challenges, and international relations.
3. Debates in Parliament influence public opinion and policymaking.

8. Other Powers

1. Parliament can approve the declaration of emergency (national, state, or financial) under Articles 352, 356, and 360.
2. It supervises and approves international treaties signed by the executive.
3. The Parliament can establish new All-India Services (Article 312).

Conclusion

The Parliament of India performs a wide array of functions, including lawmaking, financial control, and ensuring executive accountability. Its diverse powers and responsibilities make it a cornerstone of Indian democracy, reflecting the will of the people and maintaining checks and balances in governance.