Parliament in India plays a vital role in ensuring executive accountability through mechanisms like Question Hour, debates, and parliamentary committees. However, challenges such as party dynamics and occasional disruptions may impact its efficacy. Striking a balance between legislative and executive functions is crucial for robust accountability.
UPSC Mains General Studies Paper – 2 Mains 2021
UPSC Mains Civil Services IAS Exam Question Paper – 2021
Approach
- Give a Brief introduction of keyword Parliamentary form of government
- Discuss the various Mechanisms of Parliamentary control over the Executive.
- Explain the constraints in ensuring accountability.
- Conclude by stating some suggestions.
Answer
Introduction
- The Constitution of India establishes a parliamentary form of government, wherein the Executive branch is accountable to the Parliament for its policies and actions. This system of parliamentary democracy ensures regular and ongoing evaluation of the executive’s accountability to the legislature.The parliamentary democracy in India fosters a robust and continuous evaluation of the Executive’s actions, ensuring that the government remains accountable and responsible in its governance.
Body
Mechanisms of Parliamentary control over the Executive: Parliamentary control over the Executive is exercised through various mechanisms, which include:
- Questioning and Discussions: The Question Hour, Zero Hour, Half-an-Hour Discussion, Short Duration Discussion, Calling Attention Motion, Adjournment Motion, and other discussions provide opportunities for Members of Parliament to raise queries, seek clarifications, and engage in debates, thereby holding the Executive accountable.
- Voting and Motions: General Discussions allow Parliament to express its views on policies and laws, while motions like Censure Motion and No-Confidence Motion provide avenues for expressing lack of confidence in the Executive and subjecting them to scrutiny through voting.
- Budgetary Control: Parliament exercises control over the Executive’s financial decisions through the appropriation of grants and post-budgetary control via financial committees like the Public Accounts Committee. This ensures that government expenditures are reviewed and scrutinized to maintain financial accountability.
- Protest and Pressure Tactics: Walkouts, abstaining from voting, and the use of live-streaming to highlight issues can put pressure on the Executive, compelling them to address concerns and take necessary actions.
The constraints in ensuring accountability: Several constraints exist that can hinder the effective implementation of accountability measures. Some of these constraints include:
- Lack of Transparency: Limited access to information and lack of transparency in government processes can impede accountability. When information is not readily available or is deliberately withheld, it becomes challenging for citizens and oversight institutions to hold the government accountable for its actions.
- Weak Legal Framework: Inadequate or weak legal frameworks can create loopholes that allow officials to evade accountability. Insufficient laws, loopholes, or ambiguities in legislation can provide opportunities for misconduct or corruption without appropriate consequences.
- Political Interference: Political interference can undermine accountability mechanisms. When the ruling political party influences or interferes with the functioning of accountability institutions, such as investigative agencies or oversight bodies, their ability to hold the government accountable can be compromised.
- Inadequate Resources and Capacity: Insufficient resources, both financial and human, can limit the effectiveness of accountability institutions. Without adequate funding, trained personnel, and technical capacity, these institutions may struggle to carry out their responsibilities effectively.
- Complex Bureaucracy: A complex bureaucratic structure can hinder accountability by creating bureaucratic red tape and delays. When processes are convoluted, it becomes difficult to track responsibility and hold officials accountable for their actions or decisions.
Conclusion
- Thus, To establish comprehensive accountability of the Executive to the Parliament, certain measures should be implemented. These include incorporating the suggested 15-point reform charter proposed by the Vice President. Additionally, it is crucial to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the committee system by appointing committee members based on their domain knowledge and ensuring longer and assured terms of service.
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