Question

Which of the following statements about the Attorney General's rights within the Indian Parliament are correct?
i. The Attorney General has the right to speak in the proceedings of both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.
ii. As the highest law officer, the Attorney General is granted the right to vote during a joint sitting of Parliament.
iii. The Attorney General can be named a member of any parliamentary committee and has the right to participate in its proceedings.

• A. Only i and ii
• B. Only i and iii
• C. Only ii and iii
• D. All of the above (i, ii and iii)

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Only i and iii

Attorney General of India in Relation to Parliamentary Proceedings

• Right to Speak: The Attorney General of India has the right to participate in discussions and speak in the proceedings of both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, as well as in any joint sitting of the Parliament. This is enshrined in Article 88 of the Constitution.

• Not a Member: However, the Attorney General is not a member of either House of Parliament. Therefore, the Attorney General does not have the right to vote in parliamentary proceedings. This is a crucial distinction in competitive exams.

• Committee Participation: The Attorney General can be appointed to parliamentary committees. In such a capacity, the Attorney General has the right to participate in the committee's proceedings and offer legal expertise.

• Constitutional Provisions: Article 76 of the Constitution of India deals with the Office of the Attorney General for India. Article 88 specifically deals with the rights of the Attorney General in relation to Parliament.

• Distinction from Elected Members: It's important to differentiate the Attorney General's role from that of elected Members of Parliament (MPs). While MPs have the right to vote and represent constituencies, the Attorney General's role is advisory and legal, based on constitutional appointment.