Q.4 To what extent, in your view, the Parliament is able to ensure accountability of the executive in India?

Model Answer:

Introduction

Parliamentary accountability is a cornerstone of democratic governance, ensuring that the executive remains answerable to the legislature. In India, this concept is enshrined in Articles 74 and 75 of the Constitution, which outline the collective responsibility of the Council of Ministers to the Lok Sabha.

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Roles and Functions of Parliament:

• Question Hour: This is a crucial mechanism where MPs question ministers about their ministries' functioning. For instance, questions on the implementation of the PM-KISAN scheme have led to increased transparency.
• Zero Hour: Allows MPs to raise urgent matters without prior notice. Issues like the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic were discussed during Zero Hour.
• Parliamentary Committees: These committees scrutinise the work of the executive. The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) reviews the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) reports, such as the one on the Rafale deal, ensuring financial accountability.

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Examples of Parliamentary Actions:

• CAG Reports: The CAG's audit reports, like the one on the 2G spectrum allocation, have led to significant political and legal repercussions.
• No-Confidence Motion: The 2018 no-confidence motion against the NDA government, though unsuccessful, compelled the government to justify its policies and actions.

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Challenges:

• Frequent Disruptions: Parliamentary sessions often face disruptions, reducing the time available for meaningful debate. For example, the 2021 Monsoon Session was marred by protests over farm laws.
• Partisan Politics: Excessive partisanship can hinder objective scrutiny. The 2019 Citizenship Amendment Act debates saw polarised discussions, affecting the quality of legislative oversight.
• Limited Time for Committees: Parliamentary committees often have limited time to scrutinise bills and policies thoroughly, impacting their effectiveness.

Conclusion

The Parliament plays a vital role in ensuring the accountability of the executive, balancing power, and maintaining democratic integrity. However, challenges like frequent disruptions and partisan politics need to be addressed. Strengthening parliamentary procedures, ensuring adequate time for debates, and enhancing the role of committees can improve the effectiveness of parliamentary oversight.

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