Points To Remember

1. Direct legislation is a device by which people take a direct share in the process of law making. The movement in favour of direct demo­cratic devices is gathering momentum because of the distrust which] people are developing against their representatives. The following methods are commonly employed :

2. Referendum:

It means the submission to the vote of the people of a Bill passed by legislature.

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3. Plebiscite:

It means the direct submission to the vote of the people, of a question of vital public importance.

4. Initiative:

It is the device by which a specific number of voters may ask the legislature to consider a certain proposal for legislation.

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5. Recall:

The method implies that a prescribed number of citizens may send up a petition demanding the dismissal of an elected represen­tative.

6. Merits:

(a) These methods fulfill the spirit of democracy

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(b) These are the best means of political education.

(c) The system promotes patriotism and sense of responsibility.

(d) It minimizes the evil influence of political parties.

(e) It enables the legislature to maintain touch with the people.

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(f) Referendum is the best method of solving deadlocks.

7. Demerits:

(a) These methods lower the prestige of the legisla­ture.

(b) The ordinary voters cannot be expected to know much about legislation.

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(c) The system cannot be worked in modern big country states.

(d) The system does not leave any room for amendments.

(e) Direct legislation has not been responsible for progressive legislation because people are generally conservative.