Factors Responsible for the Decline of the Prestige of the Indian Parliament

1. Frequent Disruptions and Wasting Time

• Continuous disruptions in the Parliament, with frequent adjournments and protests, reduce its effectiveness. For example, sessions are often cut short over disruptions, wasting valuable time.

2. Corruption and Scandals

• Political corruption and scandals involving MPs erode public trust in the institution. Cases like the 2G scam or corruption charges against lawmakers tarnish Parliament’s image.

3. Decline in Quality of Debate

• Shallow debates and lack of meaningful discussion on crucial issues diminish the quality of parliamentary proceedings, leaving citizens disillusioned.

These factors contribute to the growing public dissatisfaction with the functioning of Parliament.

Emergency Powers of the President of India

1. National Emergency (Article 352)

• The President can declare a National Emergency if there’s a threat to India’s sovereignty, integrity, or security. For example, the 1975 Emergency was declared due to political instability.

2. State Emergency (President’s Rule) (Article 356)

• If a state government fails to function according to the Constitution, the President can impose President’s Rule and dissolve the state assembly, like in Punjab in 1987.

3. Financial Emergency (Article 360)

• The President can declare a financial emergency if the financial stability or credit of India is threatened.

These powers help the President ensure the country’s stability during crises.

Ideals and Values Enshrined in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution

1. Sovereign

• India is free to make its own decisions, without interference from outside forces. For example, India conducts its own elections.

2. Socialist

• The state aims to reduce inequality and ensure equal distribution of wealth. Programs like “Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act” promote this.

3. Secular

• India treats all religions equally. Citizens have the freedom to practice any religion they choose.

4. Democratic

• The government is elected by the people through regular, free, and fair elections, ensuring the power lies with the people.

These values form the foundation of India’s democracy and governance system.

Two Standing Committees of the Lok Sabha

1. Public Accounts Committee (PAC)

• The PAC reviews government spending and ensures public funds are used properly.

2. Estimates Committee

• This committee examines the estimates of government expenditure and suggests improvements for effective use of resources.

For example, the PAC may audit how much money was spent on a government project like building roads.