Roadmap for Answer Writing
1. Introduction
- Briefly introduce the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee, its establishment (2000, institutionalized in 2015), and its role in upholding ethical conduct among MPs.
- State the purpose of the committee in ensuring accountability and fostering public trust in parliamentary governance.
Relevant Facts
- Established in 2000 by Speaker G.M.C. Balayogi; became a permanent part of the Lok Sabha in 2015.
- Comprises 15 members representing diverse political parties.
2. Composition and Purpose of the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee
- Composition:
- 15 members, appointed annually by the Speaker.
- Chairperson selected from the members by the Speaker.
- Purpose:
- Investigates complaints of unethical behavior.
- Upholds ethical standards among MPs.
- Strengthens public trust in democratic institutions.
- Roles and Responsibilities:
- Reviews complaints of misconduct.
- Conducts investigations by gathering evidence and summoning witnesses.
- Recommends actions such as warnings, censure, or expulsion.
- Offers guidance to MPs on ethical behavior.
- Promotes a culture of integrity in parliamentary practices.
Relevant Facts
- Term: Members are appointed for one year.
- Source of Complaints: Speaker, MPs, or the public.
3. Role in Monitoring Ethical Conduct
- Examines allegations of bribery, misuse of position, and other unethical acts.
- Investigates the authenticity of complaints through due process.
- Provides actionable recommendations based on findings.
- Balances punitive measures with guidance and counseling to maintain ethical standards.
Relevant Facts
- Actions may include censure, warnings, or further investigation by specialized committees like the Privileges Committee.
- Focus on moral and ethical breaches rather than legal violations.
4. Comparison of Ethics Committee and Privileges Committee
- Highlight differences and overlaps between the two committees:
- Focus Areas:
- Ethics Committee: Moral and ethical conduct of MPs.
- Privileges Committee: Safeguards parliamentary dignity and privileges.
- Violations Addressed:
- Ethics Committee: Misuse of position, conflict of interest, criminal activity.
- Privileges Committee: Obstruction, contempt, disorderly conduct.
- Penalties:
- Ethics Committee: Warnings, censure, expulsion.
- Privileges Committee: Fines, imprisonment, expulsion.
- Focus Areas:
Relevant Facts
- Ethics Committee handles moral breaches; Privileges Committee addresses violations of parliamentary privileges.
- Overlap: Allegations of corruption may involve both committees.
5. Conclusion
- Conclude by emphasizing the complementary roles of both committees in maintaining parliamentary dignity and trust.
- Highlight their significance in ensuring ethical governance and preserving democratic principles.
Relevant Facts:
- Both committees make recommendations but lack enforcement power.
- Their actions strengthen the integrity of parliamentary proceedings.
Model Answer
Introduction
The Lok Sabha Ethics Committee, established in 2000 and institutionalized in 2015, upholds ethical conduct among MPs, ensuring public trust. Similarly, the Privileges Committee safeguards parliamentary authority and dignity. Both committees play pivotal roles in maintaining order and morality within the legislative framework.
Lok Sabha’s Ethics Committee
Composition and Purpose
Chairperson and Procedures
Key Roles
Privileges Committee
Mandate and Scope
Comparative Overview
Similarities and Overlaps
Conclusion
Together, the Ethics and Privileges Committees are vital pillars in parliamentary governance, reinforcing ethical behavior and protecting institutional dignity. Their distinct yet interrelated mandates ensure a balanced approach to maintaining trust, accountability, and respect within the legislative domain.