Why in news?
Recent discussions on constitutional reforms in both India and France prompted comparisons of how governments win or lose the support of their legislatures. Understanding these differences helps students preparing for public service examinations and deepens citizens’ awareness of democratic systems.
Systems of government
India operates a parliamentary system modelled on the British tradition. The President is the ceremonial head of state, while the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers are responsible to the Lok Sabha (House of the People). If the Lok Sabha passes a no‑confidence motion, the entire Cabinet must resign.
France uses a semi‑presidential system created under the Fifth Republic in 1958. There is a dual executive: the President, directly elected by the people, and the Prime Minister, appointed by the President but accountable to the National Assembly. This arrangement blends features of presidential and parliamentary systems.
Key contrasts
- Head of state versus head of government: In India the President acts mainly on the advice of the Council of Ministers and has limited discretionary powers. In France the President has broad authority, particularly over foreign policy and defence. The Prime Minister manages domestic affairs.
- Confidence motions: An Indian government must enjoy the confidence of the Lok Sabha; if it loses a vote of confidence or fails to pass a budget, it must resign. In France only the Prime Minister and Cabinet are required to secure legislative support. The President remains in office even if the government changes.
- Dissolution of parliament: In India the Lok Sabha’s term is fixed at five years unless dissolved early on the advice of the Council of Ministers. In France the President may dissolve the National Assembly and call fresh elections when there is deadlock.
- Cohabitation: When the French President and the parliamentary majority come from opposing parties, they must share power. The Prime Minister then focuses on domestic policies while the President retains control over foreign affairs. India does not experience this split, because the head of government always comes from the majority in the Lok Sabha.
Significance
- Studying these systems reveals how different constitutional designs distribute power between institutions and how governments are held accountable.
- Understanding the French model helps appreciate debates about presidential versus parliamentary roles, emergency powers and checks and balances.
- For India, the comparison underscores the need to preserve legislative oversight while ensuring stability and efficient governance.