Overview
This chapter explains how major decisions are taken and implemented by institutions in Indian democracy, focusing on the legislature, executive, and judiciary, with examples and discussions of their roles and interactions.
Major Policy Decisions: The Reservation Order Example
- In 1990, the Government of India issued an order reserving 27% of civil jobs for socially and educationally backward classes (SEBC).
- The order was based on recommendations from the Mandal Commission, set up to identify and support backward classes.
- Parliament, President, Cabinet, and Government officials were involved at different stages of the decision.
- The Supreme Court validated the order in the Indra Sawhney case, but asked to exclude the "creamy layer" among backward classes.
Importance and Structure of Political Institutions
- Institutions create rules and structures for decision-making and prevent arbitrary exercise of power.
- Key political institutions include the Parliament (legislature), the Executive (political and permanent), and the Judiciary.
- Institutions ensure continuity, responsibility, and checks and balances in governance.
The Parliament: Powers and Structure
- Parliament is the supreme law-making body and controls the executive, especially regarding spending and policy.
- It consists of two houses: Lok Sabha (House of the People) and Rajya Sabha (Council of States), plus the President.
- Lok Sabha has greater power in ordinary and money matters, and controls the Council of Ministers.
The Political Executive: Prime Minister and Council of Ministers
- The Executive is divided into Political Executive (elected, policy-makers) and Permanent Executive (appointed, implementers/civil services).
- The Prime Minister leads the Council of Ministers; the Cabinet makes collective decisions.
- The President is the head of state, with mainly ceremonial powers, acting on advice from the Council of Ministers.
The Judiciary: Independence and Functions
- The Judiciary is independent from the executive and legislature.
- The Supreme Court is the highest court; its decisions are binding and it can review the constitutional validity of laws and actions.
- Judges are appointed with minimal executive interference and have secure tenure.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Legislature — Elected body making laws and controlling government spending.
- Executive — Functionaries implementing government policies; includes political and permanent wings.
- Judiciary — Independent system of courts resolving disputes and interpreting laws.
- Office Memorandum — Official government document stating policy or order.
- Reservation — Policy reserving government jobs or seats for disadvantaged communities.
- Cabinet — Inner group of senior ministers forming the core of government decision-making.
Action Items / Next Steps
- List five cabinet ministers at the union and state levels.
- Read about real Parliament proceedings or watch broadcasts.
- Follow and report on a current major court case.
- Complete textbook exercises on matching ministries, roles, and answering questions about institutions.