Detailed Explanation:

Answer: Option 3 — The executive remains responsible to the legislature.

The fundamental feature of the parliamentary form of government is the principle of collective responsibility, where the executive (Council of Ministers) is directly accountable to the legislature. According to Article 75(3) of the Indian Constitution, the Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha and can remain in power only as long as it enjoys the confidence of the House. This ensures democratic accountability and control over the executive by elected representatives.

Why other options are incorrect:
❌ Option 1 – Incorrect: In a parliamentary system, the executive and legislature are interdependent, not independent. Separation of powers is a feature of the Presidential system.
❌ Option 2 – Incorrect: The Presidential system, not the parliamentary system, is known for continuity of policy due to fixed tenure. Parliamentary governments can change frequently through votes of no confidence.
❌ Option 4 – Incorrect: In a parliamentary system, the head of government (Prime Minister) can be changed through a vote of no confidence or party leadership change without a general election, unlike in a Presidential system.