Lok Sabha

The Lok Sabha is the lower house of India's bicameral Parliament, representing the citizens directly and holding a critical role in the country's legislative process. Formed in 1952 following India's independence, the Lok Sabha has 545 seats, including two seats reserved for Anglo-Indian representatives, though this provision was recently discontinued. Members of the Lok Sabha, known as Members of Parliament (MPs), are elected every five years through general elections conducted across the country.

The Lok Sabha has substantial powers, including the ability to pass bills, approve budgets, and amend the Constitution. It also has the authority to initiate money bills, giving it control over financial legislation—a power not vested in the Rajya Sabha (the upper house). The Prime Minister of India is typically the leader of the majority party in the Lok Sabha and is appointed by the President of India.

The Speaker, who presides over the sessions, is responsible for maintaining order and ensuring that legislative procedures are followed. Important legislative and policy debates are conducted here, with sessions often setting the agenda for national governance. The current Lok Sabha, the 17th, was formed following the 2019 general elections, with the next elections due in 2024.

In July 2024, BOOM fact-checked a viral claim alleging that Anjali Birla, daughter of Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, had cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination without appearing for any exams.

BOOM’s investigation revealed that this claim was false; Anjali Birla had indeed cleared both the preliminary and main examinations, dispelling rumors and confirming the legitimacy of her accomplishment.