Which of the following are correct with regards to the Prime Minister in coalition governments?
1. S/he cannot independently decide the dissolution of the Lok Sabha without the consent of all coalition partners.
2. S/he has limited discretion in recommending the dismissal of Ministers from allied parties due to political constraints, even though they possess constitutional authority.
3. S/he is primarily symbolic in a coalition setup, with real power resting in the hands of the coalition partners.
4. S/he must manage inter-party conflicts within the coalition to ensure smooth governance.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 and 4 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 2, and 3 only
(d) 2, 3, and 4 only

Question

Which of the following are correct with regards to the Prime Minister in coalition governments?
1. S/he cannot independently decide the dissolution of the Lok Sabha without the consent of all coalition partners.
2. S/he has limited discretion in recommending the dismissal of Ministers from allied parties due to political constraints, even though they possess constitutional authority.
3. S/he is primarily symbolic in a coalition setup, with real power resting in the hands of the coalition partners.
4. S/he must manage inter-party conflicts within the coalition to ensure smooth governance.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 and 4 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 2, and 3 only
(d) 2, 3, and 4 only

ONLiNE UPSC · Accepted Answer

Statement 1 is not correct. Constitutionally, the Prime Minister can advise the President to dissolve the Lok Sabha under Article 85, and the President is bound to act on such advice. While political realities in coalition governments may compel the Prime Minister to consult coalition partners, it is not a legal requirement.

Statement 2 is Correct. Constitutionally, the Prime Minister has the authority to recommend the dismissal of any Minister under Article 75(2). However, in a coalition government, dismissing a Minister from an allied party could lead to political instability or even the collapse of the government, significantly limiting the Prime Minister&rsquo;s practical discretion.

Statement 3 is not correct. While the Prime Minister&rsquo;s authority may be diluted, they are still the head of the government and play a central role in decision-making. The power balance may shift depending on the strength of the coalition, but their role is far from merely symbolic.

Statement 4 is Correct. Coalition governments often face ideological and policy differences among partners. The Prime Minister plays a crucial role in resolving these conflicts and maintaining cohesion, which is vital for governance and stability.

Prime Minister in Coalition Governments

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Which of the following are correct with regards to the Prime Minister in coalition governments? 1. S/he cannot independently decide the dissolution of the Lok Sabha without the consent of all coalition partners. 2. S/he has limited discretion in recommending the dismissal of Ministers from allied parties due to political constraints, even though they possess constitutional authority. 3. S/he is primarily symbolic in a coalition setup, with real power resting in the hands of the coalition partners. 4. S/he must manage inter-party conflicts within the coalition to ensure smooth governance. Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1 and 4 only (b) 2 and 4 only (c) 1, 2, and 3 only (d) 2, 3, and 4 only