The Dynamics of Parliamentary Democracy in India: Functioning and Challenges

Introduction

Parliamentary democracy is a system of governance where the executive derives its legitimacy from the legislature and is accountable to it. In India, this framework has been established by the Constitution of 1950, which enshrined the principles of a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic. The parliamentary system in India is characterized by a dual executive— the President as the nominal head of state and the Prime Minister as the real head of government— along with a bicameral legislature comprising the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). While this system has provided a robust mechanism for representation and governance, it has also encountered numerous challenges that impede its effective functioning. This essay delves into the functioning of parliamentary democracy in India, highlighting its strengths and the challenges it faces.

Structure of Parliamentary Democracy in India

The Legislature

The Indian Parliament consists of two houses: the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.

• Lok Sabha: The Lok Sabha is the lower house, directly elected by the people through general elections held every five years. The Lok Sabha is composed of 545 members, of which 543 are elected, and 2 are nominated by the President from the Anglo-Indian community (though this provision has been abolished by the 104th Constitutional Amendment). The Lok Sabha holds significant powers, including the authority to create laws, approve the budget, and provide checks on the executive through various mechanisms.
• Rajya Sabha: The Rajya Sabha, or the upper house, is not directly elected by the populace but consists of representatives elected by the legislative assemblies of the states and union territories, along with a few members nominated by the President. The Rajya Sabha is meant to represent the interests of the states and has equal power with the Lok Sabha in most legislative matters, although the Lok Sabha has supremacy over money bills.

The Executive

• President: The President of India serves as the ceremonial head of state, representing the unity and integrity of the nation. The President is elected by an electoral college comprising the elected members of both houses of Parliament and the elected members of the Legislative Assemblies of States and Union territories. While the President’s role is largely ceremonial, the position has significant powers, including the authority to summon and prorogue Parliament, appoint the Prime Minister, and dissolve the Lok Sabha.
• Prime Minister: The Prime Minister is the head of government and exercises executive powers. As the leader of the ruling party or coalition in the Lok Sabha, the Prime Minister plays a pivotal role in shaping government policy and decision-making. The Prime Minister is supported by a council of ministers, who are responsible for various departments and agencies of the government.

Functioning of Parliamentary Democracy

Legislative Functioning

The legislative process in India is designed to ensure representation and accountability. The Parliament is responsible for making laws, scrutinizing the executive, and debating national issues. Regular sessions of Parliament provide opportunities for discussions on significant matters, while committees play a crucial role in examining bills, overseeing government actions, and conducting inquiries into various issues.

Checks and Balances

The system of checks and balances is fundamental to the functioning of parliamentary democracy. The opposition parties play a vital role in holding the government accountable by questioning its policies, challenging decisions, and demanding transparency. The Speaker of the Lok Sabha and the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha ensure orderly conduct in the houses and maintain decorum.

Accountability Mechanisms

1. Question Hour: During this time, members can question ministers about their respective portfolios, ensuring accountability.
2. No-confidence Motion: This mechanism allows the Lok Sabha to remove the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers if they lose the confidence of the majority.
3. Parliamentary Committees: Various committees, such as the Public Accounts Committee and the Estimates Committee, scrutinize government expenditure and policies, thus promoting transparency.

Challenges to Parliamentary Democracy in India

Despite its robust framework, parliamentary democracy in India faces several challenges that hinder its effective functioning.

Political Instability

Political instability often arises due to fragmented party systems and coalition governments. The emergence of regional parties and the need for alliances to form governments can lead to instability, as seen in several states where governments have collapsed due to loss of majority. Such instability can hinder policy-making and governance, resulting in a lack of continuity and direction.

Corruption and Malfeasance

Corruption is a significant challenge to parliamentary democracy in India. Allegations of corruption against elected representatives undermine public trust and confidence in the political system. The prevalence of money power in elections, coupled with bureaucratic inefficiency, can lead to a governance model that prioritizes personal interests over public welfare.

Erosion of Democratic Norms

The erosion of democratic norms, including intolerance towards dissent, suppression of opposition voices, and attempts to undermine institutions, poses a significant threat to the parliamentary system. The increasing use of state machinery to stifle dissent and target political opponents can create an environment of fear and intimidation, which is contrary to the democratic ethos of debate and discussion.

Electoral Challenges

Elections in India, while a hallmark of its democracy, also face significant challenges. The influence of caste, religion, and regionalism often overshadows the political discourse, leading to divisive politics. Additionally, the role of money in elections can skew the democratic process, where wealthier candidates have an undue advantage over their counterparts. The need for electoral reforms, including transparency in party funding and equitable access to resources, remains a pressing concern.

Bureaucratic Inefficiency

Bureaucratic inefficiency often undermines the implementation of policies and programs. A lack of accountability and responsiveness among bureaucrats can lead to delays and obstacles in service delivery, hampering the overall effectiveness of governance. Reforming the bureaucracy to enhance efficiency and accountability is essential for the success of parliamentary democracy.

Role of the Media

The media plays a crucial role in a democracy by providing information, fostering public debate, and holding the government accountable. However, the rise of sensationalism and the spread of misinformation through social media can distort public perceptions and influence electoral outcomes. The challenge lies in ensuring that the media remains a watchdog of democracy while also being responsible in its reporting.

Conclusion

Parliamentary democracy in India has proven to be resilient, accommodating the diverse needs of its population while promoting governance and accountability. The functioning of this system is characterized by representation, debate, and a framework for checks and balances. However, challenges such as political instability, corruption, erosion of democratic norms, electoral issues, bureaucratic inefficiency, and the role of the media must be addressed to strengthen the democratic framework further.

The path ahead requires a collective effort from political leaders, civil society, and citizens to uphold the principles of democracy, promote transparency, and ensure that the voices of the marginalized are heard. Enhancing the effectiveness of parliamentary democracy in India is vital for realizing the aspirations of its people and ensuring a robust governance framework that aligns with the ideals enshrined in the Constitution. A vigilant and informed electorate, coupled with a commitment to democratic values, will be essential in overcoming the challenges and ensuring that parliamentary democracy thrives in India for generations to come.