Question

Raja Ram Pal v. Hon'ble Speaker, Lok Sabha deals with

• A. Presidents' election
• B. Privileges of the legislature
• C. Pardoning power
• D. Office of profit

Hint:

For modern constitutional cases, remember the popular names as they often reveal the subject matter. "Cash for Query" case immediately points to misconduct by legislators and the Parliament's power to discipline them, which falls under parliamentary privileges (Article 105 for Parliament, Article 194 for State Legislatures).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question refers to a specific landmark judgment of the Supreme Court of India. The case is popularly known as the 'Cash for Query' case.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Background of the Case: In 2005, a sting operation showed several Members of Parliament (MPs) accepting money in exchange for asking questions in the Parliament. Following an inquiry by a parliamentary committee, the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha passed resolutions to expel these members.
- The Legal Challenge: The expelled MPs, including Raja Ram Pal, challenged their expulsion in the Supreme Court. They argued that the Parliament did not have the power to expel its members and that such an action violated their fundamental rights.
- Judgment in Raja Ram Pal v. Hon'ble Speaker, Lok Sabha (2007): The Supreme Court, by a majority decision, upheld the power of the Parliament to expel its members. The Court held that the power to expel is a part of the inherent powers and privileges of the legislature, necessary for self-protection, self-regulation, and maintaining its dignity and authority. It ruled that while the Parliament's exercise of its privileges is subject to judicial review, the court would not interfere unless there was a gross illegality or a violation of constitutional provisions.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The case of Raja Ram Pal v. Hon'ble Speaker, Lok Sabha directly deals with the nature and extent of the privileges of the legislature, specifically the power of expulsion.