Introduction

The Indian Constitution is the supreme law of the country, providing the framework for its governance and functioning. Article 107 of the Indian Constitution deals with the provisions related to the introduction and passing of bills in the Parliament.

Understanding Article 107

Article 107 outlines the procedure that needs to be followed for introducing and passing bills in the Parliament. It lays down the rules and regulations that govern the legislative process in India.

According to Article 107, a bill can be introduced in either house of Parliament, which includes the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). The bill can be introduced by a minister or a member of the Parliament.

Procedure for Introduction of Bills

The procedure for the introduction of bills is as follows:

1. The bill is first introduced in the house of Parliament where it originates, which is usually the Lok Sabha.
2. The bill is then published in the official Gazette of India, which gives notice to the public about the proposed legislation.
3. After the bill is published, it is listed for introduction on a specific day. The day and time for the introduction of the bill are decided by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha or the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
4. On the appointed day, the minister or member who is introducing the bill presents it to the house.
5. The bill is read out by the Secretary-General of the house and then the minister or member moves a motion for its introduction.
6. If the house agrees, the bill is deemed to have been introduced.

Stages of Passage of Bills

Once a bill has been introduced, it goes through several stages before it can become law. The stages of passage of bills are as follows:

1. First Reading: After the bill is introduced, it goes through the first reading, which is a formal stage. During this stage, the bill is not debated upon, and its main provisions are read out.
2. Second Reading: The second reading is the most important stage of the legislative process. During this stage, the bill is debated upon by the members of the house. They discuss the various aspects of the bill, propose amendments, and express their opinions.
3. Committee Stage: After the second reading, the bill is referred to a committee for detailed examination. The committee scrutinizes the bill clause by clause and may suggest amendments.
4. Report Stage: Once the committee has completed its examination, it submits a report to the house. During the report stage, the members of the house discuss the recommendations made by the committee and propose further amendments, if necessary.
5. Third Reading: The third reading is the final stage of the passage of a bill. During this stage, the bill is read out for the last time, and the members of the house vote on its final form. No amendments can be proposed at this stage.
6. Passage to the Other House: If the bill is passed by the house in which it was introduced, it is sent to the other house for its consideration. The other house goes through the same stages of reading, debate, and voting.
7. Assent of the President: Once the bill has been passed by both houses of Parliament, it is sent to the President of India for his assent. The President can either give his assent, withhold his assent, or send the bill back to Parliament for reconsideration.
8. Becoming Law: If the President gives his assent, the bill becomes law and is published in the official Gazette of India. It then comes into effect on a date specified in the law or on the date of its publication.

Conclusion

Article 107 of the Indian Constitution provides the guidelines for the introduction and passing of bills in the Parliament. It ensures that the legislative process is carried out in a systematic and transparent manner. By following the procedure outlined in Article 107, the Parliament is able to enact laws that govern the functioning of the country and address the needs of its citizens.

Understanding the provisions of Article 107 is crucial for anyone interested in the legislative process in India. It helps in comprehending the steps involved in the introduction and passage of bills, which play a vital role in shaping the laws of the land.