Correct Option
The correct option is (a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
Explanation
The Indian Constitution establishes a Parliamentary System of Government at both the Union and State levels. A fundamental tenet of this system is the lack of strict separation between the Executive and the Legislature, unlike the Presidential system. The Executive is drawn from and remains part of the Legislature.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Assertion (A): Correct. In the State Legislature, a Minister is a member of the Executive branch but must also be a member of the Legislature (either the Legislative Assembly or the Legislative Council). If a non-member is appointed as a Minister, they must become a member within six months. Therefore, a person holds dual membership and functions simultaneously as a representative (MLA/MLC) and a Minister.
- Reason (R): Correct. Article 164(2) of the Constitution mandates that the Council of Ministers shall be collectively responsible to the Legislative Assembly of the State. This is the bedrock principle of parliamentary democracy.
Justification for Option (a)
The Assertion describes the structural overlap between the Executive and the Legislature (a person being both a Minister and an MLA). The Reason states the principle of Collective Responsibility. The structural overlap exists specifically to ensure this responsibility. By requiring Ministers to be members of the Legislature, the Constitution ensures they are present in the House to answer questions, defend policies, and maintain the confidence of the Assembly. Thus, the principle of accountability (R) explains the necessity of the dual role (A).
Key Takeaway: In the Parliamentary system, the Executive is an integral part of the Legislature to ensure continuous accountability via the principle of Collective Responsibility.