Model Answers

Introduction:

Parliamentary oversight in India plays a crucial role in ensuring the accountability of the Executive. Through various mechanisms such as Question Hour, Committees, and motions, Parliament holds the Executive responsible for its actions and policies. However, the effectiveness of these measures has been limited due to various challenges.

Evaluation of Effectiveness:

• Majority Party Rule: The dominance of the ruling party in Parliament often leads to the Executive’s policies being rubber-stamped, despite opposition concerns. This diminishes the impact of parliamentary oversight.
• Disruptions and Reduced Deliberations: Frequent disruptions in Parliament have resulted in lost time for meaningful discussions. For example, the 16th Lok Sabha lost 16% of its scheduled time due to disruptions, as per PRS Legislative Research. This reduces the effectiveness of oversight.
• Lack of Committee Scrutiny: Bills are often passed without adequate scrutiny by Parliamentary Committees. Only 25% of bills were referred to Committees in the 16th Lok Sabha, compared to higher percentages in earlier sessions.
• Guillotine and Delegated Legislation: The frequent use of the guillotine process to pass the Budget reduces financial control, and the increasing reliance on delegated legislation has reduced Parliament’s involvement in detailed lawmaking.

Measures to Strengthen Oversight:

• Greater Role for Opposition: Allowing opposition parties more control over the legislative agenda, similar to practices in the UK and Canada, could make oversight more effective.
• Enhanced Committee System: Strengthening the Committee system by ensuring mandatory Ministerial appearances and increasing transparency through recorded sessions would improve accountability.
• Parliamentary Independence: Allowing Parliament to convene on its own initiative, rather than relying solely on the President’s discretion, would ensure timely discussions on critical issues.

Conclusion:

While parliamentary oversight is vital for Executive accountability, its effectiveness can be significantly improved by addressing current limitations. Strengthening the Committee system, reducing disruptions, and empowering the Opposition are key steps towards better governance.