Date : 02/09/2023

Relevance – GS Paper 2 – Polity

Keywords – Mother of democracy, Rajya Sabha, Lok Sabha, Parliamentary committees

Context –

Parliaments, as the supreme embodiment of the will of sovereign peoples, hold a pivotal role in constitutional democracies. In nations like India, elected members of Parliament bear the legal responsibility of periodically seeking endorsement for their plans and programs from their constituents through free, fair, and transparent elections.

Parliament: The Heart of Democracy

India, often acclaimed as the "mother of democracy," boasts a profound democratic legacy deeply intertwined with its historical and cultural heritage spanning millennia. Ancient texts originating from various regions of the country not only refer to institutions that facilitated deliberation and debate but also illuminate the presence of participative governance, particularly at the grassroots level of village communities. Even amid sweeping macro-level political changes, the Indian populace has tenaciously upheld democratic values, exemplified by the resilience of local self-governance, especially in tribal regions.

The Continuity of Democracy

India's founding fathers, enriched by their knowledge of history, tradition, and culture, embraced democracy with unwavering faith in the political acumen of the common people. When India achieved independence in 1947, doubts were cast by international observers regarding the feasibility of democracy in the country, with some deeming it an alien transplant on Indian political soil. However, India's visionary Constitution, adopted at the dawn of independence, has firmly refuted these doubts over seven decades. India's robust parliamentary system has adeptly managed conflicts, celebrated diversity, and nurtured unity, effectively embodying the democratic ethos.

Parliament: A Transformative Force

Parliament stands as the epicenter of transformative legislation, assuming the role of overseeing resource allocation, scrutinizing budgets, and vigilantly monitoring expenditures. As a body elected by the people, it holds the executive branch accountable through various constitutional instruments. Moreover, Parliament serves as an amplifying medium for the voices of citizens, acting as a conduit for their concerns to reach the government's ears. Over the years, it has enacted thousands of laws, significantly shaping India as a nation committed to the rule of law and the enhancement of the lives of ordinary citizens, fostering inclusivity and equity.

The Role of Parliamentary Committees

Parliamentary committees, often described as miniature parliaments, complement the functioning of Parliament by conducting in-depth examinations of bills, budgetary proposals, and government programs. These committees, endowed with substantial authority, operate flexibly and have the capacity to gather evidence effectively. Consequently, they enhance the parliamentary oversight of government ministries and departments, contributing to more informed and comprehensive decision-making processes.

Preserving Parliamentary Privileges

The Indian Constitution bestows members of Parliament, individually and collectively as members of the parliamentary houses, with specific rights, privileges, and immunities to enable them to fulfill their responsibilities efficiently and effectively, free from external pressures. These privileges safeguard the autonomy, authority, and dignity of Parliament, acting as bulwarks against incursions into its domain by other state organs. This protection is crucial to allowing members to freely express their views within the parliamentary precincts and during sessions, fostering open debates and discussions.

Challenges to Parliamentary Decorum

Notwithstanding the noble ideals of parliamentary democracy, contemporary times have witnessed occasional disruptions and unruly behavior among members. While dissent and rigorous questioning are integral components of a vibrant democracy, these disruptions hinder the productivity of Parliament. Consequently, vital legislation sometimes passes without the benefit of thorough debate. A necessary course correction is required, with a return to informed, civil discourse being the preferred mode of operation.

Embracing Technology

In the 21st century, technology has become an indispensable tool for problem-solving, even for issues that appeared insurmountable not too long ago. It has woven itself into the fabric of daily life, enhancing equality, accessibility, transparency, awareness, and services. In this context, the Indian Parliament is actively embracing technology to enhance its functionality and connect more effectively with its members, legislative bodies, and citizens. Initiatives like the Digital Sansad app, incorporation of top-rated green building norms in the new Parliament building, and upgrades in social media coverage are collectively contributing to Parliament's transformation into a more tech-savvy institution.

Conclusion

As India strides into an era of transformative change, Parliament must reclaim its status as a responsible institution, upholding the dignity and respect that citizens place in their elected representatives. Members of Parliament are expected to set examples of decorum, responsibility, and dedication, serving as role models for the nation. The Indian Parliament, with its rich democratic legacy, must continue to serve as a symbol of hope and a beacon of peace, not just within the nation but also on the global stage, as it steers the country toward progress during this transformative era of Amrit Kaal.

Source – Indian Express