Correct Option
A joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament, as provided under Article 108 of the Constitution, can be convened by the President to resolve a deadlock between the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha regarding the passage of an Ordinary Legislation. A deadlock is deemed to occur when:
- One House rejects a Bill passed by the other House.
- The Houses have finally disagreed as to the amendments to be made in the Bill.
- More than six months elapse from the date of the reception of the Bill by the other House without the Bill being passed by it.
This provision for a joint sitting is not applicable to Money Bills or Constitution Amendment Bills.
- Money Bills (Article 110) are primarily the prerogative of the Lok Sabha, with the Rajya Sabha having limited powers to delay or suggest amendments.
- Constitution Amendment Bills (Article 368) require passage by both Houses separately by a special majority; there is no provision for a joint sitting in case of a disagreement.
Incorrect Options
Options (b), (c), and (d) are incorrect because a joint sitting of Parliament is not permissible for Money Bills or Constitution Amendment Bills.
- For Money Bills, the Lok Sabha holds superior powers, and the Rajya Sabha can only delay it for a maximum of 14 days.
- For Constitution Amendment Bills, both Houses must pass the Bill separately by a special majority. If there is a disagreement, the Bill lapses, and a joint sitting cannot be convened to resolve such a deadlock.