Q. Which of the following instruments/ways can be used by the Parliament to keep an effective check on the executive?
1. Parliamentary privilege
2. Question hour
3. Adjournment motion
4. Financial approval pro cedures
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Exp) Option d is the correct answer
An active and vigilant Parliament can keep regular and effective check on the executive through many ways.
Statement 1 is correct. The power and freedom of the legislators as people’s representatives to work effectively and fearlessly is one the basic ways to keep control on the executive. The constitution provides for the freedom of speech to the members of Parliament inside the house. This is known as parliamentary privilege. The main purpose of such privileges is to enable the members of the legislature to represent the people and exercise effective control over the executive.
Statement 2 is correct. The Question Hour, which is held every day during the sessions of Parliament, where Ministers have to respond to questions raised by the members is the most effective method of keeping vigil on the executive and the administrative agencies of the government. Most of the questions aim at eliciting information from the government on issues of public interest such as, price rise, availability of food grains, atrocities on weaker sections of the society, riots, black-marketing, etc. This gives the members an opportunity to criticise the government, and represent the problems of their constituencies.
Statement 3 is correct. Adjournment motion is introduced in the Parliament to draw attention of the House to a definite matter of urgent public importance. It involves the element of censure against the government. Thus, it acts as an effective check on the executive.
Statement 4 is correct. Preparation and presentation of budget for the approval of the legislature is constitutional obligation of the government. This obligation allows the legislature to exercise control over the spending of the government. The legislature may refuse to grant resources to the government. This seldom happens because the government ordinarily enjoys support of the majority in the parliamentary system. Nevertheless, before granting money the Lok Sabha can discuss the reasons for which the government requires money. It can also enquire into cases of misuse of funds on the basis of the reports of the Comptroller and Auditor General.
