By Arvind Sharma (Sr Journalist based in Dharamsala)
India, the world’s largest democracy, entrusts its elected representatives with the responsibility of voicing public concerns and resolving issues through constructive debate and policymaking. However, recent years have seen an alarming rise in disruptions during parliamentary proceedings, raising questions about the efficacy and purpose of these sessions.
Parliament and state assemblies are platforms where lawmakers deliberate on policies and pass laws that shape the nation’s future. Yet, instead of focusing on public welfare, frequent interruptions by opposition partiesтАФand sometimes ruling party membersтАФstall proceedings, wasting valuable time and taxpayer money. The disruptions, often marked by walkouts, slogan-shouting, and sit-ins, derail discussions on critical issues and undermine the legislative process.
Disruptions in Indian parliamentary proceedings are not new, having gained prominence in the 1970s. However, the frequency and intensity of such actions have escalated significantly in the last two decades.
During the 15th Lok Sabha (2009тАУ14), the Lok Sabha worked only 61% of its scheduled time, while the Rajya Sabha functioned for just 66%.
The 2023 Winter Session saw significant disruptions, with 141 opposition MPs suspended over protests regarding pressing issues, including parliamentary security breaches.
Key bills are often passed without adequate discussion due to frequent adjournments, weakening the quality of legislative debate.
Opposition parties often stage protests to demand immediate discussions on contentious issues such as economic policies, governance failures, or scandals. While dissent is an integral part of a vibrant democracy, the manner in which it is expressed sometimes crosses the line, obstructing the very functioning of democratic institutions.
Each day of parliamentary proceedings costs lakhs of rupees, funded by taxpayers’ hard-earned money. When sessions are repeatedly adjourned, this expenditure becomes a burden with no tangible outcome.
Moreover, the inability to conduct meaningful debates or pass laws efficiently pushes the nation backward, jeopardizing IndiaтАЩs aspirations to join the ranks of developed countries.
Addressing this issue requires both systemic reforms and accountability from lawmakers. Some possible measures include:
Revisiting Parliamentary Rules: Introducing stricter rules to discourage disruptions, such as automatic expulsion for unruly behavior.
Time Allocation for Opposition: Ensuring dedicated time for opposition debates to provide a platform for dissent while maintaining order.
Penalties for Disruptions: Imposing financial penalties or suspensions on members who disrupt proceedings. For instance, members creating disturbances could face immediate expulsion for two hours, with their allowances and privileges suspended for the same duration. Repeated offenses could lead to expulsion for the entire session.
Encouraging Constructive Dialogue: Fostering an environment where both ruling and opposition parties prioritize public interest over political gains.
The balance between government efficiency and opposition expression is critical for a functioning parliamentary democracy. While dissent must be respected, it should not come at the cost of the nation’s progress.
The people of India expect their representatives to act responsibly and work towards their welfare. Disruptions may be a tool for expressing dissent, but when overused, they erode the credibility of democratic institutions. It is high time for lawmakers to prioritize the interests of the country and its citizens over political theatrics. Stricter rules, accountability, and a renewed commitment to constructive debate can ensure that the Indian Parliament functions as a true temple of democracy.
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