Systemic challenges in parliamentary oversight: Parliaments past, a mirror to changing dynamics

Source: The post systemic challenges in parliamentary oversight has been created, based on the article “Parliaments past, a mirror to changing dynamics” published in “The Hindu” on 6th April 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2- Polity- Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these.

News: This article discusses how the Indian Parliament, particularly the 17th Lok Sabha, has functioned recently. It highlights shifts in focus, like more questions about health and agriculture and fewer about national security. It also notes changing trends in parliamentary debates and oversight.

What are the systemic challenges in parliamentary oversight?

Decline in Questions to the Prime Minister: The Prime Minister’s Office received only 28 answers out of 1,146 questions from Rajya Sabha MPs, indicating limited engagement at the highest executive level.

Reduced Focus on Key Ministries: Interest in national security issues has decreased, with the Ministry of Home Affairs witnessing a 32% drop in queries.

Changing Ministerial Priorities: The Ministries of Health and Agriculture are now receiving more questions, shifting focus from earlier priorities.

Increasing Disallowed Questions in Rajya Sabha: The percentage of disallowed questions in the Rajya Sabha is rising, with 36.6% relating to key ministries like Health, Home Affairs, and Finance, suggesting hindrances in oversight.

Missed Opportunities for Discussion: Crucial issues, like student suicides due to exams, were not adequately addressed, indicating missed chances for accountability and debate.

What changes have occurred in parliamentary discussions?

Increased Use of Zero Hour Over Time: Over the past 15 years, the use of Zero Hour in parliamentary discussions has seen a significant increase: a 62% rise in the Rajya Sabha and a 34% increase in the Lok Sabha. This trend suggests a growing focus on addressing immediate and pressing issues.

Decline in Traditional Interventions: The use of ‘Half-an-Hour Discussions’, ‘Short Notice Questions’, ‘Calling Attention’, ‘Short Duration Discussions’, and ‘Special Mentions’ has decreased, suggesting a shift away from these traditional methods.

Way forward

To revitalise legislative engagement, Indian Parliament should seize every opportunity for accountability and constructive debate, focusing on enacting policies that prioritize national welfare, as seen in the proactive dynamics of the 16th Lok Sabha.

Questions for practice:

Discuss the recent trends and challenges in parliamentary oversight and engagement in the Indian Parliament