Introduction
Article 86 of the Indian Constitution explains the power of the President to address both Houses of Parliament and to send messages to them. This Article strengthens communication between the Executive and the Legislature. It also ensures that the President can guide Parliament on important national issues. The provision reflects the Parliamentary form of government, where the Executive stays accountable to the Legislature.
What Article 86 Says
Article 86 gives the President two key powers:
1. Power to Address Parliament
The President may address either House of Parliament or both Houses assembled together. This allows the President to speak on urgent matters, national policies, or any issue that requires attention.
2. Power to Send Messages to Parliament
The President may send messages to either House of Parliament. These messages may cover any subject that the Houses must consider. When such a message is received, the House must take it into account and discuss it.
Explanation in Simple Words
Article 86 allows the President to directly communicate with Parliament. It acts as a bridge between the Executive and the Legislature. The President can address MPs or send written messages to raise concerns, give suggestions, or highlight important events. The Houses must respond by discussing or considering the issues mentioned in the message.
Importance of Article 86
1. Ensures Executive–Legislature Coordination
The President can update both Houses on developments and guide discussions.
2. Enhances Democratic Communication
It allows transparent communication in the Parliamentary system.
3. Supports Constitutional Functions
The President can use this Article during emergencies, major policy shifts, or matters of national importance.
4. Encourages Accountability
Messages or addresses by the President push Parliament to discuss and act on key subjects.
How Article 86 Works in Practice
Although Article 86 gives the power to address Parliament at any time, Presidents usually exercise this power on special occasions. One common example is the President’s address at the start of the first session of Parliament every year, required under Article 87. That address outlines the government’s policies and programmes.
Separately, messages under Article 86 are rare today but remain important. They are available as a constitutional tool whenever the Executive needs to draw Parliament’s attention to a specific matter.
Conclusion
Article 86 ensures that the President can communicate freely with Parliament. By granting the power to address or send messages, the Constitution creates a system where the Executive can guide and coordinate with the Legislature. Even though this power is not used frequently, it remains an important safeguard for democratic functioning.
