# GST Council: Decision Making & Constitutional Framework
## Overview
The GST Council is the constitutional body that recommends GST policies. Understanding its quorum, voting mechanism, and protective provisions is essential.
## Key Functions
1. Develop a harmonized national market for goods and services
2. Recommend policies on GST rates, exemptions, and procedures
## Quorum Requirement
- One-half of the total number of members must be present to constitute a valid meeting.
## Voting Mechanism (Weighted Voting)
Decisions require a majority of not less than three-fourths (3/4th) of weighted votes of members present and voting.
| Party | Weight of Vote |
|---|---|
| Central Government | 1/3rd of total votes cast |
| All State Governments together | 2/3rd of total votes cast |
Practical Implication: Neither the Centre alone nor the States alone can push through a decision — both must broadly agree.
## Validity Protection (Saving Clause)
No act or proceeding of the GST Council shall be invalid merely because of:
- Any vacancy or defect in constitution of the Council
- Any defect in appointment of a person as a member
- Any procedural irregularity not affecting the merits of the case
## Dispute Resolution Mechanism
The Council shall establish a mechanism to adjudicate disputes between:
- Government of India and one or more states
- Government of India and state(s) on one side and remaining state(s) on the other side
- Two or more states (on recommendations of the Council)
## Article 368 Amendment
Article 368 has been amended to include Article 279A, requiring:
- Two-thirds majority in Parliament, AND
- Ratification by at least half of the States
for any amendment related to the GST Council.