How the Indian Parliament Works: A Detailed Analysis

The Indian Parliament is the cornerstone of the world’s largest democracy, reflecting the will and aspirations of over 1.4 billion citizens. It plays a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s policies and laws. Understanding how the Indian Parliament operates offers insights into the complexities of democratic governance and the mechanisms that ensure checks and balances.

Structure of the Indian Parliament

The Indian Parliament is a bicameral institution, consisting of two houses:

1. Lok Sabha (House of the People)
   • The Lok Sabha is the lower house of Parliament and represents the people of India directly. Members are elected by universal adult suffrage in general elections held every five years.
   • The maximum strength of the Lok Sabha is 552 members. Currently, it comprises 543 elected members, with two members nominated by the President to represent the Anglo-Indian community if necessary.
2. Rajya Sabha (Council of States)
   • The Rajya Sabha is the upper house and represents the states and union territories of India. It is a permanent body that is not subject to dissolution; however, one-third of its members retire every two years.
   • The maximum strength of the Rajya Sabha is 250 members, with 238 elected by the legislative assemblies of states and union territories and 12 nominated by the President for their expertise in specific fields like literature, science, art, and social services.

Roles and Responsibilities of the Indian Parliament

The Indian Parliament performs various crucial functions:

1. Legislative Function
   • Parliament is responsible for making, amending, and repealing laws. Bills can be introduced in either house, except for Money Bills, which are exclusive to the Lok Sabha.
   • There are three types of bills:
     • Ordinary Bills: Can be introduced in either house.
     • Money Bills: Concern financial matters and require the Lok Sabha’s approval.
     • Constitutional Amendment Bills: Require a special majority in both houses.
2. Executive Oversight
   • Parliament holds the executive accountable through mechanisms like Question Hour, Zero Hour, and parliamentary committees.
   • Members can ask questions, move motions, or seek clarifications from the government on policies and decisions.
3. Budgetary Control
   • Parliament approves the Union Budget, detailing the government’s income and expenditure for the financial year.
   • The Appropriation Bill and Finance Bill are essential for implementing the budgetary proposals.
4. Constituent Function
   • The Parliament plays a role in amending the Constitution to address evolving needs and challenges.
5. Electoral Functions
   • The Parliament participates in electing the President and Vice President of India.
6. Judicial Functions
   • Parliament can impeach the President, remove judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts, and dismiss other constitutional authorities for misconduct or incapacity.

Key Processes in the Indian Parliament

Lawmaking Process

The legislative process in Parliament involves several stages:

1. Introduction of the Bill
   • A bill can be introduced by a minister (Government Bill) or a Member of Parliament (Private Member’s Bill).
   • Bills are classified into Ordinary, Money, and Constitutional Amendment Bills.
2. First Reading
   • The bill’s title and objectives are introduced, and members decide whether to take it forward.
3. Second Reading
   • A detailed discussion occurs, and the bill may be referred to a standing committee for further scrutiny.
4. Committee Stage
   • The committee examines the bill, suggests amendments, and submits its report.
5. Third Reading
   • The final version of the bill is debated and voted upon. If approved, it moves to the other house for consideration.
6. President’s Assent
   • After both houses approve the bill, it is sent to the President for assent. Once signed, it becomes law.

Budget Session

The Union Budget is presented during the Budget Session, the longest parliamentary session. The budget is debated and approved in stages:

1. Presentation of the Budget
   • The Finance Minister presents the budget in the Lok Sabha.
2. General Discussion
   • Members discuss the budget’s broad outlines without voting on specific items.
3. Demand for Grants
   • Ministries present their budgetary demands, which are discussed and voted upon.
4. Passing of Bills
   • The Appropriation Bill and Finance Bill are passed to implement the budget.

Question Hour and Zero Hour

• Question Hour: MPs ask questions to ministers about government policies and administration.
• Zero Hour: Members raise urgent matters without prior notice.

Parliamentary Committees

Parliamentary committees play a crucial role in the functioning of the Indian Parliament. They are of two types:

1. Standing Committees: Permanent committees like the Public Accounts Committee and Estimates Committee.
2. Ad Hoc Committees: Temporary committees formed for specific purposes.

Checks and Balances

The Indian Parliament ensures checks and balances to prevent misuse of power:

1. Separation of Powers
   • The legislature, executive, and judiciary function independently yet collaboratively.
2. Judicial Review
   • The judiciary can review parliamentary laws to ensure they comply with the Constitution.
3. Accountability Mechanisms
   • Parliamentary debates, questions, and committees hold the executive accountable.

Challenges Faced by the Indian Parliament

Despite its pivotal role, the Parliament faces challenges:

1. Disruptions
   • Frequent disruptions hinder legislative business.
2. Lack of Debates
   • Insufficient time for detailed debates on bills and policies.
3. Low Attendance
   • Low participation of MPs affects discussions and decision-making.
4. Complexity of Issues
   • The growing complexity of national and global issues demands specialized knowledge.

Reforms to Strengthen Parliament

To enhance its effectiveness, the following reforms are suggested:

1. Digital Transformation
   • Leveraging technology for virtual sessions and better documentation.
2. Code of Conduct
   • Establishing stricter rules to curb disruptions.
3. Capacity Building
   • Training MPs on policy issues and governance.
4. Strengthening Committees
   • Empowering committees with more resources and autonomy.

Conclusion

The Indian Parliament is the bedrock of the country’s democratic framework. Its intricate processes, representative nature, and diverse functions reflect the aspirations of a vibrant democracy. While challenges persist, reforms and innovations can strengthen its role in nation-building, ensuring it continues to serve as the voice of the people and the guardian of the Constitution.