Class 8 Civics Parliament and the Making of Laws

Class 8 Civics Parliament and the Making of Laws

Introduction

In a democracy, laws are made by representatives elected by the people. In India, this important task is performed by the Parliament. Parliament represents the people’s views and plays a major role in law-making and governance.

What is Parliament?

Parliament is the highest law-making body of India. It:

  • Makes laws for the entire country
  • Represents the people of India
  • Controls the government
  • Discusses national issues

Why Do We Need a Parliament?

We need a Parliament because:

  1. India is a large and diverse country
  2. It is not possible for all citizens to make laws directly
  3. Elected representatives express people’s needs and opinions
  4. Laws are debated before being passed

Composition of the Indian Parliament

The Indian Parliament has three parts:

  1. President of India
  2. Lok Sabha (House of the People)
  3. Rajya Sabha (Council of States)

Lok Sabha

  • Also called the Lower House
  • Members are directly elected by the people
  • Maximum strength: 545 members
  • Tenure: 5 years

Rajya Sabha

  • Also called the Upper House
  • Members are elected by State Legislative Assemblies
  • Maximum strength: 250 members
  • Permanent House (not dissolved)

Role of the President

  • Summons and dissolves the Lok Sabha
  • Gives assent to bills
  • Part of the Parliament

What is a Law?

A law is a rule made by the government that citizens must follow. Laws help maintain order, protect rights, and ensure justice.

How Are Laws Made?

Step 1: Introduction of a Bill

A Bill is a proposal for a new law. It can be introduced in:

  • Lok Sabha or
  • Rajya Sabha

Step 2: Discussion and Debate

Members of Parliament discuss the bill, suggest changes, and debate its impact.

Step 3: Voting

After discussion, the bill is put to vote. If the majority supports it, the bill is passed.

Step 4: President’s Assent

The bill becomes a law after the President gives approval.

Importance of Public Participation

Citizens can influence laws by:

  • Protests
  • Campaigns
  • Media discussions
  • Public opinion

Public participation strengthens democracy.

Role of Opposition in Parliament

The Opposition:

  • Questions the government
  • Highlights mistakes
  • Represents alternative views

This helps keep the government accountable.

Quick Revision Points

  • Parliament = Law-making body
  • Three parts: President, Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha
  • Bill → Debate → Vote → President’s assent = Law
  • Parliament represents the people

Clear One-Word Questions & Answers

  1. What is the highest law-making body of India called? – Parliament
  2. Which House of Parliament is known as the House of the People? – LokSabha
  3. Which House of Parliament is called the Council of States? – RajyaSabha
  4. Who is an important part of the Indian Parliament? – President
  5. Which House of Parliament is directly elected by the people? – LokSabha
  6. Which House of Parliament is a permanent House? – RajyaSabha

Members and Tenure

  1. What are the elected members of Parliament called? – MPs
  2. What is the term of the Lok Sabha? – FiveYears
  3. How many years does the Lok Sabha function? – Five
  4. What is the maximum strength of the Lok Sabha? – 545
  5. What is the maximum strength of the Rajya Sabha? – 250

Law-Making Process

  1. What is a proposal for a new law called? – Bill
  2. What is the detailed discussion on a bill called? – Debate
  3. What is the process of choosing by majority called? – Voting
  4. What is the approval given by the President to a bill called? – Assent
  5. What does a bill become after the President’s assent? – Act

Democracy and Parliament

  1. What system of government allows people to elect representatives? – Democracy
  2. What group in Parliament questions the government? – Opposition
  3. What is the process of people influencing laws called? – Participation
  4. What is the duty of Parliament to control the government called? – Accountability

Miscellaneous Important

  1. What are the rules made by Parliament called? – Laws
  2. What is a meeting of Parliament called? – Session
  3. What expresses the views of citizens in Parliament? – Representation
  4. What helps Parliament know people’s views? – PublicOpinion
  5. What ensures the government answers to Parliament? – Opposition