Q. To what extent, in your view, the Parliament is able to ensure accountability of the executive in India?

Model Answer: 

Parliament’s Role in Ensuring Executive Accountability in India

The Parliament’s ability to ensure executive accountability in India is significant but faces challenges. This accountability is crucial for maintaining the balance of power in a democracy.

Key mechanisms for parliamentary accountability include:

• Question Hour: Allows MPs to seek information and explanations
• Zero Hour: Raises urgent matters of public importance
• Motions: No-confidence, adjournment (e.g., Rafale deal debate)
• Parliamentary Committees: Scrutinize policies and expenditures
• Budgetary control: Approval and oversight of government spending

Strengths of the system:
• Constitutional provisions support accountability
• Active opposition participation enhances scrutiny
• Media coverage increases transparency

However, limitations exist:
• Executive dominance due to majority party system
• Lack of expertise among MPs on complex issues
• Frequent disruptions affecting parliamentary functioning
• Limited time for in-depth discussions

Recent developments have aimed to improve accountability:
• Anti-defection law to prevent floor-crossing
• Strengthening of parliamentary committees
• Live telecasting of proceedings for public engagement

The Parliament’s effectiveness in ensuring executive accountability varies:
• Successful in exposing scandals (e.g., 2G spectrum case)
• Less effective in preventing executive overreach in some areas

Conclusion: While the Indian Parliament has strong mechanisms for executive accountability, reforms are needed to enhance its effectiveness in the face of evolving challenges.