What Is Constitution Of India Article 203?

Constitution Of India Article 203: Procedure in Legislature with Respect to Estimates

(1) So much of the estimates as relates to expenditure charged upon the Consolidated Fund of a State shall not be submitted to the vote of the Legislative Assembly, but nothing in this clause shall be construed as preventing discussion in the Legislature on any of those estimates.

(2) So much of the said estimates as relates to other expenditures shall be submitted in the form of demands for grants to the Legislative Assembly. The Legislative Assembly shall have the power to:

• (a) Assent to any demand.
• (b) Refuse to assent to any demand.
• (c) Assent to any demand subject to a reduction of the amount specified therein.

(3) No demand for a grant shall be made except on the recommendation of the Governor.

Brief Detail

Article 203 outlines the process followed in the State Legislature concerning the approval of financial estimates. Expenditures charged to the Consolidated Fund of a State are not subject to a vote but can be discussed. Other expenditures require the approval of the Legislative Assembly in the form of grants.

Question & Answers

What is the significance of Article 203?

Article 203 ensures financial control by the State Legislature, allowing elected representatives to debate and approve financial allocations, except for those charged directly to the Consolidated Fund.

Can the Legislative Assembly refuse any financial demand?

Yes, the Legislative Assembly has the power to approve, reject, or modify financial demands, except those directly charged on the Consolidated Fund of the State.

Why is the Governor's recommendation required for a demand for a grant?

The Governor's recommendation ensures that financial proposals are aligned with the State’s fiscal policies and priorities before they are presented for approval in the Legislature.

Example

Suppose the State Government proposes a budget including funds for infrastructure development and salaries of judges. While the budget for judges' salaries (charged to the Consolidated Fund) cannot be voted upon, the funds for infrastructure projects must be approved by the Legislative Assembly, which can reduce or reject the allocation.

Summary

Article 203 establishes a structured procedure for discussing and approving financial estimates in the State Legislature. While some expenditures are pre-approved, others require legislative consent, ensuring a balance between executive authority and legislative oversight.