The Constitution of India
Article 113
Procedure in Parliament with respect to estimates
(1) So much of the estimates as relates to expenditure charged upon the Consolidated Fund of India shall not be submitted to the vote of Parliament, but nothing in this clause shall be construed as preventing the discussion in either House of Parliament of any of those estimates.
(2) So much of the said estimates as relates to other expenditure shall be submitted in the form of demands for grants to the House of the People, and the House of the People shall have power to assent, or to refuse to assent, to any demand, or to 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 President.
Why this exists
This Article reflects the core principle of parliamentary financial control: the executive cannot spend public money without the legislature's oversight, except for certain protected expenses (like judicial salaries) meant to stay insulated from political pressure. It mirrors the British parliamentary tradition where the 'power of the purse' rests with elected representatives, while requiring presidential recommendation to ensure spending proposals originate from the government (executive) rather than individual MPs, preserving fiscal discipline and accountability.
Common misconceptions
- Myth: Parliament has no power over 'charged' expenditure at all.
Fact: Parliament cannot vote to change 'charged' expenditure, but it can still fully discuss and question it in either House. - Myth: Any Member of Parliament can propose a new government spending demand.
Fact: Only the President can recommend a demand for a grant; individual MPs cannot introduce such proposals on their own. - Myth: The Rajya Sabha also votes on demands for grants.
Fact: Only the Lok Sabha (House of the People) has the power to vote on demands for grants under this Article.