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Source — Source: TH ///Category — GS Paper 2 ///Published — 2026-03-06 ///Exam — Both Prelims and Mains ///Tags — Rapid Fire CA, Quick Facts For Prelims, GS Paper - 2 ///Source — Source: TH ///Category — GS Paper 2 ///Published — 2026-03-06 ///Exam — Both Prelims and Mains ///Tags — Rapid Fire CA, Quick Facts For Prelims, GS Paper - 2 ///

Source: TH · GS Paper 2

Lok Sabha Committee of Privileges

The Lok Sabha Committee of Privileges, reconstituted by the Speaker, safeguards parliamentary privileges and investigates breaches of immunity. Understanding its composition, powers under Articles 105 and 194, and its role in defection cases is essential for UPSC aspirants.

2026-03-06

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Source: TH

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Article

Parliamentary Privileges

Definition: Special rights, immunities, and powers enjoyed by Parliament as an institution and by individual MPs to perform constitutional duties without external interference.
Constitutional Basis:
Article 105 – Grants privileges to the Parliament of India and its members.
Article 194 – Extends similar privileges to State Legislatures.

Committee of Privileges

Nature: A standing committee of Parliament that examines cases of breach of privilege or contempt.
Composition:
Lok Sabha Committee – 15 members nominated by the Speaker.
Rajya Sabha Committee – 10 members nominated by the Chairman.
Functions:
Examine complaints of breach of privileges of the House or its members.
Call witnesses, examine documents, and conduct inquiries.
Determine whether a breach or contempt has occurred.
Submit a report to the respective House for acceptance, modification, or rejection.
Outcome: Most privilege notices are rejected; punitive action is rare.

Breach of Privilege

Occurs when any act violates the rights, privileges, or immunities of Parliament or its members.
Examples include contempt of the House, obstruction of parliamentary proceedings, or publishing false statements about parliamentary debates.

Defection Matters

Governed by the Tenth Schedule (Anti‑Defection Law) and the Members of Lok Sabha (Disqualification on Ground of Defection) Rules, 1985.
The Speaker may refer petitions on disqualification to the Committee of Privileges for a preliminary inquiry before taking a final decision.

Significance for India

Protects Independence: Ensures Parliament can function without undue external pressure.
Maintains Discipline: Acts as a deterrent against contempt and misconduct.
Upholds Accountability: Provides a mechanism to investigate and sanction breaches, thereby preserving the dignity of the legislative process.

Related Constitutional/Legal Provisions

Article 105 & 194 – Parliamentary privileges.
Tenth Schedule – Anti‑defection provisions.
Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha – Details on privilege notices and committee proceedings.

References: Parliamentary Privileges in India