How does legislature exercise control over the executive in India’s Parliamentary system ? Explain.

In India's Parliamentary system, the principle of separation of powers ensures a system of checks and balances, allowing the legislature to exercise control over the executive. This system aims to prevent the abuse of power by any one branch of the government. The ways in which the legislature controls the executive include:

1. Cabinet Responsibility and Collective Responsibility:
   The executive, particularly the Council of Ministers headed by the Prime Minister, is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha (lower house of Parliament). The principle of collective responsibility implies that all decisions of the government must be collectively endorsed by the Cabinet. If the executive fails to maintain the confidence of the majority in the Lok Sabha, it may lead to the resignation of the entire Council of Ministers.

2. Question Hour and Interpellation:
   One of the essential tools through which the legislature exercises control is during the Question Hour in the Parliament. Members of Parliament can ask questions to ministers, seeking clarifications on policies and actions. Interpellations allow for more detailed discussions and questioning on specific matters, holding the executive accountable for its decisions and actions.

3. Debates and Discussions:
   Parliamentary debates and discussions provide a platform for Members of Parliament (MPs) to critically analyze and question the policies and actions of the executive. These discussions enable the legislature to express concerns, seek explanations, and influence decision-making processes.

4. No-Confidence Motions:
   A powerful instrument in the hands of the legislature is the ability to move a vote of no-confidence against the government. If a majority of MPs express a lack of confidence in the government, it may lead to the resignation of the Prime Minister and the entire Council of Ministers, triggering the formation of a new government or fresh elections.

5. Financial Control:
   The legislature holds significant control over finances, as it has the authority to approve budgets and expenditures. The executive needs the approval of the Parliament to allocate funds for various programs and initiatives. This control ensures that the government's financial decisions align with the priorities and expectations of the legislature.

6. Committee System:
   Parliamentary committees, such as the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) and the Estimates Committee, play a crucial role in scrutinizing the executive's actions. These committees review government spending, policies, and implementation, providing a detailed examination that contributes to transparency and accountability.

7. Power of Dissolution:
   The President, acting on the advice of the Prime Minister, has the authority to dissolve the Lok Sabha and call for fresh elections. This power provides an indirect control mechanism, as the threat of dissolution may encourage the executive to seek the support and cooperation of the legislature.

8. Judicial Review:
   Although not directly under the control of the legislature, the judiciary acts as a check on the executive. The legislature, through its law-making function, can influence the legal framework and subsequently, the judiciary's ability to review executive actions for constitutionality.

In summary, the Indian Parliament exercises control over the executive through mechanisms such as collective responsibility, question hours, debates, votes of confidence, financial approvals, committee scrutiny, and the power of dissolution. These tools collectively ensure that the executive remains accountable to the legislature and, by extension, to the citizens of the country.