Initiative
Also called: Popular initiative · Topic: Democracy: Forms of Government, Principles and Outcomes · NCERT: Beyond NCERT
Meaning
An initiative (also called a popular initiative) is a direct-democracy device. A set number of voters can propose a law or a constitutional amendment and force a public vote on it. The proposal comes from the people, not from the legislature. The Indian Constitution has no initiative. Amendments go only through Parliament under Art. 368.
Example
In Switzerland, 100,000 signatures can force a nationwide vote on a constitutional amendment. Many US states also allow initiatives. In India, a group of citizens cannot force a vote this way. They can only press for change through campaigns, petitions and their representatives.
Don't confuse with
- Referendum: in a referendum, citizens approve or reject a proposal that usually comes from the government or legislature. In an initiative, the citizens write the proposal.