Q. “The growth of cabinet system has practically resulted in the marginalisation of the parliamentary supremacy.” Elucidate.

Model Answer:

Cabinet System

The growth of the cabinet system has indeed led to a perceived marginalization of parliamentary supremacy, a principle once considered fundamental to democratic governance. This shift can be attributed to several factors:

1. Increased executive power:
• The cabinet, led by the Prime Minister, has become the primary decision-making body.
• Policy formulation and implementation are largely controlled by the executive.
• The cabinet’s control over the legislative agenda has grown significantly.

2. Impact on parliamentary functions:
• Individual MPs’ roles in policymaking have diminished.
• Party discipline and the whip system often override individual conscience votes.
• Parliamentary debates, while still important, have less impact on policy outcomes.

3. Executive dominance:
• The fusion of executive and legislative powers in parliamentary systems has tilted the balance towards the cabinet.
• Ministers, who are part of both the executive and legislature, often prioritize their executive roles.

However, it’s crucial to note that parliament still retains important powers:

• Oversight functions through committees and question hours.
• The ability to pass no-confidence motions.
• Control over the budget and financial matters.

In the Indian context, parliamentary supremacy is enshrined in the Constitution, but the cabinet’s influence has grown over time. Reforms like the Anti-Defection Law have further strengthened party control over MPs.

In conclusion, while the cabinet system has altered the traditional notion of parliamentary supremacy, parliament remains a vital institution in democratic governance. The challenge lies in balancing efficient governance with effective legislative oversight.