Question map
When a Bill is referred to a joint sitting of both the Houses of Indian Parliament, it has to be passed by
Explanation
According to Article 108 of the Indian Constitution, when a Bill is referred to a joint sitting of both Houses, it is decided by a majority of the total number of members of both Houses present and voting [t4]. This is commonly referred to as a simple majority. The Constitution specifies that all matters at any sitting of either House or a joint sitting are decided by this majority unless specifically mentioned otherwise [c1][c2]. In a joint sitting, the Lok Sabha typically has a numerical advantage due to its larger membership [c3]. It is important to note that joint sittings are only applicable to ordinary bills and financial bills (Type II), and cannot be summoned for Money Bills or Constitutional Amendment Bills [t7]. Since 1950, this provision has been invoked only three times to resolve deadlocks between the two Houses [c4].
Sources
- [1] Indian Polity, M. Laxmikanth(7th ed.) > Chapter 23: Parliament > Voting in House > p. 237
- [2] Laxmikanth, M. Indian Polity. 7th ed., McGraw Hill. > Chapter 23: Parliament > Voting in House > p. 237
- [3] Indian Polity, M. Laxmikanth(7th ed.) > Chapter 23: Parliament > JOINT SITTING OF TWO HOUSES > p. 250
- [4] Laxmikanth, M. Indian Polity. 7th ed., McGraw Hill. > Chapter 23: Parliament > JOINT SITTING OF TWO HOUSES > p. 250