Absolute Majority, Example, Absolute vs Simple Majority

In the parliamentary system of India, different types of majorities are used to pass laws and take important constitutional decisions. One of the most important among them is the Absolute Majority. It plays a crucial role in forming the government and ensuring stability in the Parliament.

What is Absolute Majority?

Absolute Majority means a majority of more than half of the total membership of the House. The calculation is based on the total strength of the House, not just the members present and voting. 

In other words, a party or coalition must have more than 50% of the total seats in the House to achieve an absolute majority.

Formula of Absolute Majority: The formula used to calculate the absolute majority is very simple. This formula ensures that the majority is more than half of the total strength.

Absolute Majority = Total Membership of the House ÷ 2 + 1

Example of Absolute Majority in the Constitution

A clear example of absolute majority is mentioned in Article 169 of the Constitution of India. Under this article, Parliament can abolish or create a State Legislative Council.

For this process:

• The State Legislative Assembly must pass a resolution
• It must be approved by
  • Absolute Majority of total membership, and
  • Two-thirds majority of members present and voting (Special Majority)

This shows that both absolute majority and special majority may be required for important constitutional decisions.

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Types of Majority in Indian Parliament

In the Indian parliamentary system, several types of majorities are used for different purposes. Here are types of majority in Indian Constitution.

Absolute Majority vs Simple Majority

Absolute Majority and Simple Majority are two important types of majority used in the Indian parliamentary system. While absolute majority is calculated based on the total strength of the House, simple majority depends only on the members present and voting during a decision or vote.