The President of India recently addressed the joint session of both houses of Parliament, marking the first time he has spoken to the newly elected 17th Lok Sabha. As the head of state, the President of India holds all executive power, which he exercises based on the advice and aid of the Council of Ministers, led by the Prime Minister.
Constitutional Provision: Article 87
Provided by Article 87 of the Constitution, the President has the mandate to address both Houses of Parliament in two specific instances. Firstly, the President addresses the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha at the onset of the primary session following each general election when the reconstituted lower house convenes for the very first time. Secondly, the President is also required to address both houses at the start of the first session of each New Year. The President’s speech largely underscores the government’s policy priorities and plans for the forthcoming year, thereby providing a broad framework of the government’s agenda and direction.
The Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1951: Changes to Article 87
Article 87 underwent an amendment through The Constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1951. The amendment resulted in the substitution of the phrase “every session” found in clause (1) to “the first session after each general election to the House of the People and at the commencement of the first session of each year”. Furthermore, the phrase “and for the precedence of such discussion over other business of the House” found in clause (2) was omitted.
Joint Seating of Both Houses to Resolve Deadlocks
In certain circumstances, a joint sitting of both houses is convened to overcome a deadlock concerning the passage of significant legislation. However, not all bills can be referred to a joint sitting of Parliament. Article 110 and Article 368 present two exceptions concerning Money Bills and Constitution amendment bills, respectively.
Article 108: Joint Seating Provisions
Article 108 of the Indian Constitution provides for a joint seating of both Houses of Parliament. The President calls the meeting, and it’s presided by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, or in his absence, the Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha or the Deputy-Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. The Chairman isn’t entitled to preside over the joint session under any circumstances. The Secretary-General issues summons to each member, specifying the place and time for the joint session. The Speaker determines the duration and adjournment of the joint session.
| Title | Description |
|---|---|
| Quorum | The quorum to constitute a joint sitting is one-tenth of the total number of members of the Houses. |
| Procedure | The procedures of joint sessions are subject to modifications and variations as the Speaker may deem necessary or suitable. |
Summons and Session Timing
The summons to members of the Parliament is issued by the Secretary-General. It contains specific details pertaining to the time and location of the joint sitting. The timing and adjournment details pertaining to the joint sitting are ascertained by the Speaker.
