Out of the following statements, choose the one that brings out the principle underlying the Cabinet form of Government:
- A.An arrangement for minimising criticism against the Government whose responsibilities are complex and hard to carry out to the satisfaction of all.
- B.A mechanism for speeding up the activities of the Government whose responsibilities are increasing day by day.
- C.A mechanism of parliamentary democracy for ensuring collective responsibility of the Government to the people.
- D.A device for strengthening the hands of the head of the Government whose hold over the people is in a state of decline.
▶ Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: C. A mechanism of parliamentary democracy for ensuring collective responsibility of the Government to the people.
The Cabinet form of government, characteristic of parliamentary democracies, is fundamentally based on the principle of collective responsibility. The entire council of ministers, led by the Prime Minister, is collectively accountable to the legislature (Parliament). This means the government must maintain the confidence of the legislature, and if a no-confidence motion is passed, the entire government is deemed to have resigned. This mechanism ensures that the government acts cohesively and is answerable to the elected representatives of the people.
Source: UPSC gs1 2017