Strengthening Parliamentary Oversight in India

Context: The article examines the diminishing role of Parliamentary oversight in India, despite the constitutional emphasis on checks and balances, and suggests targeted reforms to revitalise its effectiveness.

Parliamentary Oversight

Parliamentary Oversight means the different ways and means by which a parliament (the legislative) exercises oversight over, monitors, and holds the executive branch of government (the government ministries and departments) to account for what it does, for its policies, and for its expenditures. It is an integral concept of parliamentary democracy, guaranteeing that the government acts openly, effectively, and according to law and the will of the people.

Parliamentary Oversight in India: Key Issues

Decline in Parliamentary Oversight

• Despite mechanisms like Question Hour, Zero Hour, and Standing Committees, oversight has weakened due to frequent disruptions and a lack of follow-up.
• In the 17th Lok Sabha, Question Hour functioned only 60% (Lok Sabha) and 52% (Rajya Sabha) of the scheduled time.

Underutilised Committees

• Department-related Standing Committees (DRSCs) produce detailed reports, but their recommendations often do not influence legislation or policy.
• Limited stakeholder engagement and lack of continuity hinder committee effectiveness.

Notable Successes of Committees

• Railways (2016): The Standing Committee recommended waiving dividend payments.
• Motor Vehicles Act (2017): Amendments influenced by the Standing Committee.
• NHAI Projects: Public Undertakings Committee recommended initiating projects only after 80% land acquisition.
• Commonwealth Games (2010): PAC exposed delays and corruption.
• PAC’s effectiveness: On average, 180 recommendations annually, with a ~80% acceptance rate by the government.

Way Forward

• Post-Legislative Scrutiny: Establish subcommittees or a specialised body to review law implementation.
  • Adopt the UK model, where laws are reviewed 3–5 years after enactment.
• Enhancing Committee Work: Bring key DRSC reports for floor discussion and mandatory ministerial response.
  • Improve accessibility of reports via regional translations, infographics, and videos.
  • Provide committees with dedicated research and technical support.
• Leveraging Technology: Use AI and data analytics to help MPs scrutinise policies and budgets.
  • Enable evidence-based questioning and tracking of irregularities.

Conclusion

A robust parliamentary oversight mechanism is essential for transparent and accountable governance. Strengthening committees, ensuring post-legislative reviews, and integrating technology can revive the accountability function of Parliament. As Dr. Ambedkar envisaged, democracy demands “more responsibility than stability,” and that begins with Maximum Accountability through Maximum Governance.

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