New Delhi: The history of the Indian Parliament is a rich tapestry that reflects the country’s journey as a sovereign democratic republic. Following its independence from British rule in 1947, India adopted a parliamentary system based on the Westminster model. The first general elections were held in 1951-52, and since then, the Indian Parliament has been the supreme legislative body of the country.
Here’s a detailed table capturing the key milestones in the history of the Indian Parliament from 1948 to the present:
| Year | Event | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1948 | First Session | The Constituent Assembly, which also acted as the first Parliament, held its first session. |
| 1950 | Constitution Adoption | The Constitution of India was adopted on 26th November 1949 and came into effect on 26th January 1950, making the Constituent Assembly the Provisional Parliament until the first electionsâ¶. |
| 1952 | First General Elections | India’s first general elections were held, establishing the first elected Parliament. |
| 1954 | First Amendment | The first amendment to the Constitution was passed, addressing issues of land reform and the judiciary. |
| 1975 | State of Emergency | A state of emergency was declared, leading to significant changes in the functioning of Parliament. |
| 1980s | Parliamentary Reforms | Several reforms were introduced to strengthen the parliamentary system and improve its efficiency. |
| 1990s | Economic Liberalization | Parliament passed several key economic reforms that opened up the Indian economy. |
| 2000s | Introduction of Coalition Era | The era of coalition governments began, reflecting a more diverse and pluralistic political landscape. |
| 2010s | Digitalization | Steps were taken to digitalize parliamentary proceedings and make them more accessible to the public. |
| 2020s | Ongoing Developments | Parliament continues to evolve with ongoing debates and legislation on various socio-economic issues. |
This table provides a snapshot of the significant events that have shaped the Indian Parliament over the years. It has been a witness to India’s growth and challenges, playing a pivotal role in the nation’s development and democracy.
