Phase IFoundation
Background
Overview
This is a fundamental principle of Indian polity, frequently tested in GS2. It underpins the functioning of the executive, accountability mechanisms, and democratic governance. Understanding its nuances (individual vs. collective, political vs. legal) is crucial for analyzing government actions and constitutional propriety.
In a parliamentary democracy, ministers are accountable to the legislature for the actions and omissions of their departments. This accountability can be individual, where a minister is responsible for their own actions or the functioning of their ministry, or collective, where the entire Council of Ministers is responsible for the government's policies and decisions.