A person who is not a member of Parliament can be appointed as Minister by the President for a maximum period of how many months?

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) 6 months

A person who is not a member of Parliament (MP) can be appointed as a Minister by the President of India. However, as per Article 75(5) of the Indian Constitution, they must become a member of either the Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha within six months of their appointment. Failing this, they can no longer continue as a Minister.
This provision under Article 75(5) reflects the Constitution's adaptive nature, enabling the government to include talent and expertise while maintaining democratic principles through Parliamentary accountability.

Key Features:

• Maximum Period:
  A non-MP can serve as a Minister for six months without being a member of Parliament.

• Membership Requirement:
  The individual must secure a seat in either the Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha through an election or nomination within this period.

• Purpose:
  This provision allows the government to appoint technocrats, experts, or individuals with specific skills who may not currently be members of Parliament.

Additional Information:

• Relevant Constitutional Provisions:
  • Article 75(5):
    Specifies that a Minister must be a member of Parliament.
    Allows a person who is not a member of Parliament to be appointed as a Minister, provided they are elected to either the Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha within six months.
  • Article 164(4):
    Applies the same rule at the state level, allowing non-MLAs to be appointed as Ministers in the State Council of Ministers for up to six months.