UPSC 2015PolityModerate

When a bill is referred to a joint sitting of both the Houses of the Parliament, it has to be passed by

A
a simple majority of members present and voting
Correct Answer
B
three-fourths majority of members present and voting
C
two-thirds majority of the Houses
D
absolute majority of the Houses

Explanation

According to Article 108 of the Constitution, a bill referred to a joint sitting is passed by a simple majority of the total number of members of both Houses present and voting. While special majorities like a two-thirds majority (Option C) are required for constitutional amendments or impeachments, they do not apply here as joint sittings are only held for ordinary or financial bills to resolve deadlocks. The core concept being tested is the legislative procedure and the constitutional mechanism for resolving disagreements between the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.

ParliamentLegislative Procedures (Joint Sitting)Article 108Joint SittingSimple MajorityLegislative Procedure

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