GS 2 – Polity
Context:
The Monsoon Session of the Indian Parliament concluded and was adjourned sine die (without setting a date to resume).
Definition:
- Sine Die is a Latin term meaning “without a day”.
- When a House of Parliament (Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha) is adjourned sine die, it means that the session is closed without specifying a date for the next meeting.
Key Points
- Nature of Adjournment:
- Unlike regular adjournments (which are temporary breaks during a session), sine die adjournment marks the end of the session.
- No business can be transacted until the next session is summoned by the President.
- Authority:
- The Speaker of Lok Sabha and Chairman of Rajya Sabha have the power to adjourn their respective Houses sine die.
- Purpose:
- Formally concludes a parliamentary session after all scheduled business, debates, and discussions are completed.
- Often used at the end of Budget, Monsoon, or Winter sessions.
- Difference from Prorogation:
| Feature | Adjournment Sine Die | Prorogation |
| Meaning | Ends a session without fixing the next date | Ends a session; next session fixed by President |
| Authority | Speaker/Chairman | President |
| Effect | House is not in session, but still exists | All pending business lapses except certain Bills |