Why in News: The recent session of Parliament witnessed repeated disruptions and adjournments, with key bills being passed without debate. This has revived concerns about the declining functioning of Parliament, obstructionist tactics by the Opposition, and the erosion of deliberative democracy in India.
Introduction
- Parliament is the supreme deliberative body of India, entrusted with law-making, debate, and holding the government accountable.
- However, frequent disruptions and confrontational politics have weakened its functioning, raising concerns about the health of Indian democracy.
Problems in the Functioning of Parliament
1. Frequent Disruptions
- Opposition parties often resort to slogan shouting, walkouts, and protests.
- This prevents structured debates on important national issues.
2. Decline in Legislative Debate
- Bills are being passed without adequate discussion.
- For example, several laws have recently been enacted in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha amidst ruckus, without clause-by-clause examination.
3. Obstructionist Politics
- The opposition sees blocking Parliament as a way to weaken the government rather than engage constructively.
- Street-style agitation is replacing reasoned argument inside the House.
4. Majoritarian Push by Government
- The ruling party sometimes uses its majority to rush bills.
- Ordinances and hasty legislative processes undermine the deliberative character of Parliament.
5. Erosion of Public Trust
- Citizens perceive MPs as wasting time and taxpayers’ money.
- Instead of addressing issues like inflation, unemployment, or corruption, focus shifts to political theatrics.
Consequences of Dysfunction
- Weakening of democratic accountability as the government is not adequately questioned.
- Poor quality of laws, often leading to judicial scrutiny and legal challenges.
- Undermining cooperative federalism as states feel excluded from national policy discussions.
- Growing alienation between people and elected representatives.
Way Forward
1. Strengthen Rules of Procedure
- Enforce stricter penalties for disruptions and repeat offenders.
- Empower the Speaker/Chairman to ensure impartial discipline.
2. Constructive Role of Opposition
- Opposition must use available instruments—questions, adjournment motions, committees—rather than boycotts.
- Criticism must be issue-based, not obstructionist.
3. Government Responsibility
- The ruling party must allow adequate discussion on contentious matters.
- Avoid passing bills in haste and strengthen pre-legislative consultations.
4. Strengthening Committees
- Parliamentary committees should examine all major bills in detail.
- This ensures expertise-based scrutiny even if floor debates are limited.
5. Political and Civic Culture
- Parties must instill discipline among MPs and remind them of their representative duty.
- Civil society and media should hold MPs accountable for absenteeism and disruptions.
Conclusion
Both government and opposition must share responsibility to ensure debate, dialogue, and accountability.Restoring parliamentary dignity is vital for effective governance, citizens’ trust, and the larger health of democracy.