The Prime Minister
In a Parliamentary form of Government the real powers rests with the Prime Minister and not the President of India. He occupies a commanding position as he is “at the head” of the Councils of Ministers.
The other Ministers cannot function without the Prime Minister. He has been rightly described as “the keystone of the cabinet arch”. His position is so important in a Parliamentary Democracy that the entire Nation considers him as its leader, even though he may be the leader of only his own party.
Powers and Functions
In relation to the Council of Ministers
The Prime Minister recommends persons who can be appointed as ministers by the President.
He can allocate and also can change the portfolios among the ministers according to his will.
If a difference of opinion arises between the Prime Minister and any of his subordinate ministers, he can ask the Minister to resign or can advice President to dismiss him.
Prime Minister presides over the meeting of the Council of Ministers and he also influences the decision of the meeting.
He guides, direct, controls and coordinates the activities of all the ministers.
By resigning from office, the Prime Minister can bring about the collapse of the Council of Ministers.
In relation to the President
Prime Minister is the principal channel of communication between the President and the Council of Ministers. He communicates with the President regarding all decisions of the Council of Ministers relating to administration of the affairs of the Union and proposals for legislation (Article 78).
He furnished such information relating to administration of the affairs of the Union and proposals for legislations as the President may call for and if the Presidents so requires, Prime Minister submits for the consideration of the Council of Ministers any matter on which a decision has been taken by a Minister but on which has not been considered by the Council.
Regarding the appointment of important officials like Attorney General of India, Comptroller and Auditor General of India, Chairman and members of UPSC, Election Commissioners, Finance commission etc. the Prime Minister advise the President.
In relation to Parliament
The Prime Minister is the leader of the lower House, i.e., the Lok Sabha. He advises the President with regards to summoning and proroguing of the sessions of the Parliament.
He can recommend dissolution of the sessions of the Parliament.
He announces government policies on the floor of the House.
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