As we commemorate the historic first session of the Constituent Assembly (9 December – 23 December 1946), it is a fitting occasion to reflect on the workings of the Indian Parliament. For over seven decades, this august institution has served as the cornerstone of India’s democracy, crafting laws and shaping the nation’s destiny. Yet, while political rallies and fiery speeches dominate public discourse, the nuanced and intricate processes that sustain parliamentary democracy often go unnoticed by the citizenry.
It’s time for the youth to delve deeper, to understand how Parliament works, and to appreciate its critical role in safeguarding democratic ideals. Here are key insights into the Parliament’s functioning and the aspects that deserve greater public attention.
Beyond the Headlines: Parliamentary Procedure Unveiled
The Indian Parliament operates as a bicameral system, comprising the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). While its primary function is legislative, Parliament also serves as a forum for debate, accountability, and representation. Here are a few elements of its functioning that are less discussed but pivotal:
Committees: The Silent WorkhorsesA significant portion of parliamentary work takes place in standing, select, and joint committees. These committees scrutinize bills, evaluate policies, and oversee the execution of government schemes. Unlike the televised debates in the Houses, committee proceedings are typically off-camera but are indispensable for informed decision-making. For instance, the Public Accounts Committee’s analysis of government expenditures ensures financial discipline.
Question Hour and Zero Hour: Question Hour, held at the beginning of each parliamentary day, allows Members of Parliament (MPs) to seek direct answers from the government on pressing issues. Zero Hour, an Indian innovation, provides MPs with a platform to raise matters of urgent public importance without prior notice. These sessions are crucial for holding the government accountable, yet they rarely receive the attention they deserve.
Private Members’ Bills: While most legislation is introduced by the government, private members (non-minister MPs) can also propose bills. Although these bills rarely become laws, they spark important debates—such as the Transgender Persons Bill of 2014, which paved the way for later government action.
Budget Sessions: Beyond the Numbers: The Union Budget, presented annually, is not just about allocations and expenditures. It reflects the government’s priorities and policy directions. Parliamentary debates on the Budget provide insights into the nation’s economic health and development trajectory. (you may refer my article on budget spending)
Hypocrisies and Shortcomings: Stories That Must Be Told
While the parliamentary framework is robust, its functioning is not without flaws. The disconnect between public understanding and parliamentary realities often stems from the politicization of issues and the overshadowing of substantive debates by partisan theatrics. Here are some stories worth pondering:
The Declining Quality of Debates: A review of debates from the 1950s and 1960s reveals a stark contrast with the present day. Earlier, MPs like Hiren Mukherjee and Feroze Gandhi engaged in rigorous, well-researched debates. Today, disruptions and walkouts frequently dominate proceedings, eroding the quality of discourse.
Frequent Absenteeism: It is not uncommon for MPs to skip parliamentary sessions, leading to delays in legislative processes. For instance, several important bills have been passed with barely any discussion due to poor attendance.
The Rise of Ordinances: The increasing reliance on ordinances (temporary laws issued by the President when Parliament is not in session) undermines the democratic process. While necessary in emergencies, ordinances are often used to bypass parliamentary scrutiny—a practice that warrants public vigilance.
Why the Public Must Engage
Parliament’s decisions impact every aspect of our lives, from education and health to infrastructure and justice. Yet, public engagement often begins and ends with election campaigns. This apathy allows political parties to prioritize populist rhetoric over substantive governance. The youth, as the torchbearers of democracy, must:
Demand Transparency: Insist on greater access to information, such as live-streaming of committee meetings and simplified explanations of bills.
Engage in Discussions: Participate in debates about parliamentary proceedings, rather than limiting political discussions to rallies or slogans.
Hold Representatives Accountable: Monitor the attendance, performance, and voting patterns of MPs through resources like PRS Legislative Research.
Parliament Belongs to the People
As we remember the Constituent Assembly’s historic session, let us honor its legacy by fostering a deeper connection with Parliament. The institution’s strength lies in its ability to adapt and respond to the aspirations of the people. For that, we need informed citizens who recognize its importance, critique its shortcomings, and celebrate its successes.
On this 23rd of December, let us pledge to move beyond the spectacle of political rallies and focus on the engine that drives our democracy—the Indian Parliament. After all, the real power of democracy lies not in the hands of the few who govern but in the informed voices of the many who are governed.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of any organization or entity that the author may be associated with.