In India, the system of parliamentary government establishes a framework of checks and balances, where the executive branch is accountable to the legislature.
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The Indian Parliament possesses various instruments to exercise control over the executive. Here is an note on some of the significant instruments of parliamentary control over the executive in India:
- Question Hour: The Question Hour is a vital mechanism for parliamentary control. Members of Parliament (MPs) can raise questions to ministers concerning matters of public importance. Ministers are obligated to provide comprehensive answers, fostering accountability for the executive’s actions and policies.
- No-Confidence Motion: MPs can initiate a no-confidence motion against the government if they believe that the executive’s performance is unsatisfactory. If the motion secures a majority vote, the government is required to resign. This instrument ensures that the executive remains responsive to the Parliament and the people it represents.
- Adjournment Motion: An adjournment motion is a parliamentary tool that allows MPs to address urgent matters demanding immediate attention from the government. If accepted, the motion results in the suspension of regular House business, compelling the concerned minister to respond to the raised issues.
- Cut Motions: Cut motions are introduced during the budget session to challenge specific government policies or expenditures. If passed, these motions can curtail or reduce the proposed budget allocation for a particular policy or ministry. Cut motions enable MPs to exercise control over the executive’s financial decisions.
- Parliamentary Committees: The Parliament establishes standing committees and ad-hoc committees to scrutinize the functioning of different ministries and departments. These committees review proposed legislations, assess the executive’s performance, and provide recommendations. Through these committees, MPs can closely monitor the executive’s activities, ensuring transparency and accountability.
- Debates and Discussions: Parliament serves as a platform for MPs to engage in debates and discussions on various issues. During these sessions, MPs can raise concerns, question government policies, and present alternative viewpoints. Debates play a crucial role in holding the executive accountable and shaping public opinion.
- Parliamentary Questions: MPs can submit written or oral questions to ministers, seeking specific information or clarifications on matters of public interest. This process elicits detailed responses from the executive, promoting transparency and accountability.
- Motions of Censure: A motion of censure can be introduced against the government in the event of serious failure or misconduct. This motion expresses disapproval of the government’s actions and can have significant political consequences. It serves as a strong instrument for holding the executive accountable.
- Parliamentary Oversight: Parliament exercises oversight over the executive through discussions on reports from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) and other auditing bodies. These reports highlight instances of financial irregularities and administrative lapses, enabling MPs to question the executive and demand corrective measures.
- Private Members’ Bills: MPs who are not part of the government can propose private members’ bills to initiate legislative action. These bills address gaps in existing laws or propose new legislation. They serve as a crucial tool for parliamentary control, allowing MPs to shape the legislative agenda and hold the executive accountable.
These instruments of parliamentary control over the executive in India play a vital role in ensuring transparency, accountability, and good governance. They empower MPs to scrutinize the actions of the executive, question its policies, and safeguard the interests of the people they represent.