Subject: Indian Polity

The provision for joint sitting under Article 108 of the Indian Constitution represents a crucial mechanism to resolve deadlocks between the two houses of Parliament. This constitutional innovation draws inspiration from similar provisions in the Parliament Act of 1911 of the United Kingdom.

Occasions When Joint Sessions Can be Held

1. Legislative Deadlocks

• When a bill passed by one house is rejected by the other house.
• When houses disagree on the amendments to be made in the bill.
• When more than six months lapse from the date of reception of the bill by the other house without it being passed.

2. Special Addresses

• When the President addresses both houses of Parliament together at the beginning of the first session after each general election.
• During the first session of each year (like the recent Budget Session 2025).

3. Historical Precedents

• Only three joint sessions have been held for resolving deadlocks since 1950:
  • Dowry Prohibition Bill (1961).
  • Banking Service Commission Repeal Bill (1978).
  • Prevention of Terrorism Bill (2002).

Occasions When Joint Sessions Cannot be Held

1. Constitutional Amendment Bills

• These bills require separate approval by each house with a special majority under Article 368.
• The very nature of constitutional amendments demands broader consensus.

2. Money Bills

• Under Article 109, Lok Sabha has exclusive powers over money bills.
• Rajya Sabha can only make recommendations, not amendments.

3. Financial Bills

• Bills containing provisions for financial matters listed under Article 110.
• These bills require special procedures and cannot be subject to joint sessions.

India's constitutional framework, while providing for joint sessions as a deadlock-resolution mechanism, carefully excludes certain critical legislative matters to maintain the federal structure and financial propriety. This is exemplified by recent events like the 75th Constitution Day celebrations in November 2024, which saw both houses coming together in commemoration rather than legislation.