The legislative process in the Indian Parliament refers to the procedure through which laws are made for the country. The Indian Parliament, comprising the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States), plays a central role in law-making. This process involves multiple stages to ensure thorough scrutiny and democratic debate.

1. Types of Bills

The legislative process begins with the introduction of a bill, which is a proposal for a new law or an amendment to an existing one. Bills in Parliament are broadly classified into:

• Government Bills: Introduced by ministers.

• Private Member’s Bills: Introduced by MPs who are not ministers.

• Money Bills: Concern taxation or government spending (Article 110).

• Ordinary Bills: Deal with any matter other than financial matters.

• Constitutional Amendment Bills: Seek changes in the Constitution (Article 368).

2. Introduction of the Bill (First Reading)

The first stage is the First Reading, where the bill is introduced in either house (except Money Bills, which can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha). The bill’s title and objectives are read out. No debate occurs at this stage. After introduction, the bill is either published in the Gazette of India or referred to a committee.

3. Committee Stage and Public Input

Most bills are referred to Standing Committees or Select Committees for detailed examination. These committees:

• Scrutinize the provisions clause by clause.

• Invite experts and public feedback.

• Submit a report with recommendations.

This stage enhances transparency and public participation in the law-making process.

4. Second Reading

This is the most crucial part of the legislative process and involves:

(a) General Discussion:

Members debate the bill’s principles. The house may then refer it to a committee again, take it up immediately, or reject it.

(b) Clause-by-Clause Consideration:

Each clause is discussed, and amendments can be proposed. Voting takes place for every clause.

This stage ensures that every part of the bill is carefully scrutinized and democratically debated.

5. Third Reading

This is the Final Stage in the house where the bill originated. The entire bill, as amended, is put to vote. The discussion at this stage is restricted to the content of the bill. If the majority approves, the bill moves to the other house.

6. Passage in the Second House

The other house goes through the same stages:

• First Reading

• Second Reading (including committee stage)

• Third Reading

If the second house passes the bill without changes, it is sent for presidential assent. If the second house suggests amendments, the originating house must accept or reject them.

If both houses disagree, a Joint Sitting may be called under Article 108. However, this is rare and used only for Ordinary Bills.

7. Special Case: Money Bills

Under Article 110, Money Bills can be introduced only in the Lok Sabha. After passing in the Lok Sabha, it goes to the Rajya Sabha, which must return it within 14 days with or without recommendations. The Lok Sabha can choose to accept or reject those recommendations. The Rajya Sabha cannot amend or reject a Money Bill.

8. President’s Assent

Once both houses pass a bill, it is sent to the President of India:

• The President may give assent, turning the bill into law.

• May withhold assent (rare).

• May return a non-money bill once for reconsideration (Article 111). If the Parliament passes it again, the President must assent.

For Constitutional Amendment Bills, the President is bound to give assent.

9. Post-Enactment Process

After receiving the President’s assent, the bill becomes an Act of Parliament and is notified in the Gazette of India. It then becomes part of Indian law and is enforceable.

The legislative process in Indian Parliament ensures that laws are created through democratic debate, expert input, and public participation. By involving both houses, committees, and the President, the process seeks to balance speed with scrutiny. This layered approach reinforces constitutional values and protects public interest in law-making.