Op-Ed Focus: Do we need a presidential system?

Updated : Mar 24, 2017, 16:00
By : Atul Roy

Article: Do we need a presidential system?

Link: http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/do-we-need-a-presidential-system/article17617761.ece

Now try and answer the following questions:

  1. What are the features of Presidential and Parliamentary systems of government? Give arguments both in favour and against these two types of govt systems. Which one do you think will be suitable for our democracy?
  2. “India’s many challenges require political arrangements that permit decisive action, whereas ours increasingly promote drift and indecision”. Do you think Presidential system can solve this problem? Critically explain why do you think so?
  3. “The surrender to the authority of one individual, as in the presidential system, is dangerous for democracy”. Do you think we can put together proper checks and balances to guard against such surrender should we choose to move to a presidential system from parliamentary system? What would those checks be? Elucidate with examples.

Points to Ponder:

  1. “Even if the presidential system of govt were desirable it is not feasible under oure current constitutional scheme”. Explain this statement with reference to basic structure doctrine under our constitution.
  2. What is “Basic System” doctrine? What are its features? Describe its genesis and history.
Mar 24UPSC & State Services

Posted by:

Atul RoyAtul RoyCommunity Head, UPSC
Member since Nov 2016
0 Doubts Answered & 0 Best Answers
4 Thanks Recieved
0 Questions Answered Correctly