Why is it in the news?
The Lok Sabha Speaker officially reconstituted the Committee of Privileges.
The committee safeguards the rights, immunities and powers of Parliament and its members.
Category: Polity
Important Points:
● Parliamentary privileges are special rights, immunities and powers enjoyed by Parliament and its members.
● Article 105 of the Constitution provides privileges to Parliament and its members.
● Article 194 provides similar privileges to State Legislatures and their members.
● A breach of privilege occurs when rights or immunities of Parliament or its members are violated.
● The Committee of Privileges is a Standing Committee of Parliament.
● Lok Sabha Committee consists of 15 members nominated by the Speaker.
● Rajya Sabha Committee consists of 10 members nominated by the Chairman.
● The committee examines cases of breach of privilege and contempt of the House.
● It investigates cases by calling witnesses and examining documents.
● The committee submits its report to the House, which may accept, reject or modify its recommendations.