Q. Who is the deciding authority on the disqualification of a Parliament member, based on grounds of defection?
Answer: Presiding Officer of the House
Notes: The authority to decide on the disqualification of a Parliament member on grounds of defection lies with the Presiding Officer of the House and not the President, the Supreme Court or the Election Commission. This is as per the 10th schedule of the Indian Constitution. The decision is subject to judicial review if challenged.