Collective responsibility refers to the principle where the entire council of ministers, including the Prime Minister, is accountable for the decisions and actions of the government. Every minister, irrespective of their portfolio, bears joint responsibility for government policies, actions, and performance.
This principle is foundational in parliamentary democracies. In India, the Lok Sabha, the lower house of Parliament, holds the government to this principle. While ministers are appointed by the President, their political legitimacy comes from the majority support in the Lok Sabha.
Any government decision or action is attributed to the entire council. The entire cabinet is expected to defend any decision or action taken, even if it faces opposition or criticism. A loss of majority support in the Lok Sabha can trigger a vote of no confidence, leading to the resignation of the entire council of ministers.
Article 75 outlines key aspects of the Prime Minister's appointment and the collective accountability of the council of ministers. The Prime Minister is appointed by the President, and other Ministers are appointed based on the Prime Minister's advice. The Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha, ensuring that the government remains answerable to the elected representatives.
It ensures government cohesion, stability, and accountability. The entire cabinet remains collectively accountable for decisions, particularly those made by the Prime Minister. It is essential for the efficient functioning of India’s parliamentary democracy.
In summary, the principle of collective responsibility is a cornerstone of the parliamentary system in India, ensuring that the entire council of ministers remains unified and accountable to the Lok Sabha, and by extension, to the citizens of the country.
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