What Is Constitution Of India Article 120?

Constitution of India Article 120: Language to be Used in Parliament

(1) Notwithstanding anything in Part XVII, but subject to the provisions of Article 348, business in Parliament shall be transacted in Hindi or in English: Provided that the Chairman of the Council of States or Speaker of the House of the People, or person acting as such, as the case may be, may permit any member who cannot adequately express himself in Hindi or in English to address the House in his mother-tongue.

(2) Unless Parliament by law otherwise provides, this article shall, after the expiration of a period of fifteen years from the commencement of this Constitution, have effect as if the words or in English were omitted therefrom.

Brief Detail

Article 120 regulates the language to be used in Parliament for transacting business. Initially, both Hindi and English can be used, but after 15 years from the commencement of the Constitution, English may be omitted unless Parliament provides otherwise by law. It also allows members to address the House in their mother tongue if they are unable to express themselves in Hindi or English, with permission from the presiding officer.

Question & Answers

What languages can be used in Parliament according to Article 120?

According to Article 120, business in Parliament can be transacted in Hindi or English, but members can also use their mother-tongue with permission if they cannot adequately express themselves in either language.

What happens after 15 years from the commencement of the Constitution?

After 15 years, the provision allowing the use of English in Parliament will no longer apply unless Parliament specifically enacts a law to keep it in effect.

Example

For instance, a member who speaks a regional language and is not comfortable with Hindi or English may be allowed by the Chairman of the Council of States or Speaker of the House of the People to speak in their native language during a session.

Summary

Article 120 specifies that business in Parliament may be conducted in Hindi or English, but allows flexibility for members to use their mother-tongue if necessary. The provision regarding English will change after 15 years unless a law is passed to extend it.