India's Parliamentary Democracy: A Journey of Legacy and Responsibility : Daily News Analysis

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.

Analysing the Relevance of the Rajya Sabha

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.

India as a ‘Mother of Democracy’ –

India's unique status as the "mother of democracy" can be traced back to its rich historical and cultural heritage, which laid the foundation for democratic principles and practices. This distinction is evident through various historical elements:

Democracy in Ancient India:

  • Sabhas and Samitis: India's democratic roots can be found in the Vedic Period with the existence of Sabhas and Samitis. These assemblies served as early prototypes of democratic decision-making processes.
  • Ganarajya: In ancient India, republican states were referred to as Ganarajya. The term "Gana" signifies numbers, reflecting the rule of many or the rule of the people.
  • Non-Monarchical Clans of Jatakas: Buddhist texts, known as Jatakas, provide insights into non-monarchical clan-based governance systems in the sixth century B.C. Examples include the Shakyas of Kapilavastu, Lichchhavis of Vaishali, and the Videhas of Mithila, showcasing diverse forms of democratic governance.

Historical Examples:

  • A remarkable illustration of India's democratic heritage is the village of Uthiramerur in Tamil Nadu. An ancient rock inscription dating back 1,100 to 1,200 years outlines the principles of conducting gram sabhas (village assemblies) and the selection process for their members, resembling a mini-Constitution.
  • Another testament to India's democratic values is the 12th-century Anubhav Mandapam of Bhagwan Basaveshwara. This platform promoted free debate and discussion, emphasizing the importance of open discourse.
  • India's historical embrace of democratic ideals and practices serves as a testament to its enduring commitment to democratic governance, making it deserving of the title "mother of democracy."

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.

About Indian Parliament

The Indian Parliament stands as the highest legislative authority in India on the federal level. The organization, structure, functioning, and various aspects of the Indian Parliament are delineated in Part V of the Indian Constitution, encompassing Articles 79 to 122.

Composition of the Indian Parliament

As per the Indian Constitution, the Indian Parliament comprises three integral components:

  1. The President:
  2. The Council of States (Rajya Sabha):
  3. The House of the People (Lok Sabha):

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.

Understanding Parliamentary Committees

Overview:

  • Parliamentary Committees are constituted groups of Members of Parliament (MPs) in India, and their formation can result from appointment, election by the House, or nomination by the Speaker or Chairman. These committees operate under the guidance and direction of the Speaker or Chairman, ultimately submitting their reports either to the respective House or to the Speaker/Chairman.

Historical Origins:

  • The concept of Parliamentary Committees in India finds its historical roots in the British Parliament, reflecting a legacy inherited from the colonial era.

Legal Framework:

The authority for the establishment and functioning of these committees in India is derived from two key articles in the Constitution:

  • Article 105: This article pertains to the privileges of Members of Parliament (MPs), outlining the rights and immunities enjoyed by them.
  • Article 118: Article 118 grants the Indian Parliament the power to formulate rules for governing its proceedings and regulating its business.

Parliamentary Committees play a pivotal role in scrutinizing legislation, examining various issues, and contributing to the effective functioning of the Indian parliamentary system.

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.

Probable Questions for UPSC Mains Exam –

  1. Discuss the historical and cultural factors that have earned India the title of the "mother of democracy." How have these factors shaped India's parliamentary democracy? (10 marks, 150 words)
  2. Explain the role of parliamentary committees in the Indian Parliament and their significance in enhancing the effectiveness of legislative processes. Discuss the challenges they face in maintaining parliamentary decorum and productivity. (15 marks, 250 words)

Source – Indian Express