Day 18 – Q. 1. In the backdrop of frequent disruptions and declining deliberative standards in Parliament, assess the relevance of Parliamentary Committees in strengthening legislative scrutiny and governance. Also suggest ways to revitalise their functioning. (150 words, 10 marks)

Q. 1. In the backdrop of frequent disruptions and declining deliberative standards in Parliament, assess the relevance of Parliamentary Committees in strengthening legislative scrutiny and governance. Also suggest ways to revitalise their functioning. (150 words, 10 marks)

Introduction 

Article 118 allows Parliament to set its own procedural rules, including forming Parliamentary  Committees. These “mini-Parliaments” ensure laws are examined, the government is held  accountable, and work continues despite frequent disruptions in Parliament. 

Body

Parliamentary Disruptions 

• As former Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu noted, “Disruptions hurt the image of  Parliament and dilute its primary role of deliberation and law making.” 
• Over 65 hours were lost to disruptions in the 2023 Winter Session. This shows the rising need  for Parliamentary Committees to ensure continued scrutiny and governance. 

Relevance of PSCs in Strengthening Governance 

1. Detailed Legislative Scrutiny: PCs examine bills clause-by-clause, improving quality. Example:  The DRSC on Health gave critical inputs on the Surrogacy Bill. 
2. Executive Accountability: Ensure post-legislative oversight and curb bureaucratic overreach.  Example: The PAC flagged irregularities in COVID-19 fund allocation. 
3. Bipartisan Deliberation: Cut across party lines to facilitate consensus in a non-disruptive  setting. Example: The JPC on Data Protection Bill included inputs from multiple parties  despite political tension. 
4. Continuity & Expertise: PCs work year-round and consult domain experts. Example: DRSC on  IT held consultations with cyber-law specialists. 

Challenges Hindering Effective Functioning 

1. Limited Tenure & Frequent Reconstitution: One-year terms limit continuity and institutional  memory. 
2. Declining Referrals: Fewer bills are sent to committees, reducing scrutiny. Example: Less than 30% of bills were referred in the 17th Lok Sabha. 
3. Recommendatory Nature: Suggestions are non-binding; often ignored by ministries. 4. Partisan Interference: Political loyalty overshadows objective scrutiny in some cases.  Example: In the Pegasus inquiry demand, partisan deadlock prevented even committee  formation. 
4. Inadequate Research Support: Committees often lack expert backing and data. 6. Weak Follow-up Mechanism: Action Taken Reports are delayed or left incomplete. 

Recommendations 

1. Mandatory Referrals: Major bills must undergo committee review before floor debate, as  recommended by the 2nd ARC. 
2. Enhance Institutional Capacity: Boost research staff and expert access for committee  members, following suggestions of the NCRWC. 
3. Ensure Continuity: Extend committee tenure beyond one year for sustained oversight. 4. Strengthen Follow-up: Mandate timely Action Taken Reports and ministry accountability, as  flagged by the Punchhi Commission. 
4. Incorporate International Best Practice: For example, the UK Parliament’s Select  Committees have dedicated independent secretariats and longer terms, aiding sustained and  expert-led review. 
   

Conclusion

Revitalising Parliamentary Committees is essential to restore credibility, deliberation, and  governance quality in Parliament. Strengthening their autonomy and effectiveness will help  Parliament reclaim its role as the cornerstone of Indian democracy.