UPSC 2013 Mains GS2 Model Answer - The role of individual MPs (Members of Parliament) has diminished over the years and as a result, healthy constructive debates on policy issues are not usually witnessed.
MA
•Mayuri
Feb, 2025
•1 min read
Q1. The role of individual MPs (Members of Parliament) has diminished over the years and as a result, healthy constructive debates on policy issues are not usually witnessed. How far can this be attributed to the anti-defection law, which was legislated but with a different intention?
Model Answer:
Introduction
The diminishing role of individual MPs in India’s Parliament is often linked to the anti-defection law, initially enacted in 1985 to curb political instability caused by frequent party-switching. This law mandates that MPs must follow the party’s stance on crucial votes, reducing their ability to express independent views.
Body
Impact of Anti-Defection Law on MPs’ Role:
- Restricts Autonomy: MPs are bound by party directives, limiting their freedom to voice local concerns or personal opinions on policy matters.
- Weakens Debate Quality: Fear of disqualification prevents MPs from contributing diverse perspectives, affecting the richness of policy discussions.
- Prioritizes Party Over Public: Party loyalty often overshadows public interest, as MPs hesitate to challenge party lines even on issues impacting their constituencies.
Conclusion
While the anti-defection law aimed to ensure stability, it has inadvertently stifled healthy debates and reduced MPs to party representatives rather than public advocates, weakening parliamentary democracy.
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