How does Parliament exercise control over the Executive ?

Parliamentary Control Over the Executive

In a parliamentary system of government, such as that in India, the Executive branch is accountable to the Parliament, and mechanisms are in place to ensure checks and balances. The Parliament exercises control over the Executive through various means, ensuring that the government remains answerable and transparent in its actions.

1. Question Hour:
One of the primary mechanisms through which Parliament exercises control over the Executive is the Question Hour. During this scheduled period, Members of Parliament (MPs) can pose questions to ministers regarding various aspects of governance, policies, and administrative matters. This allows MPs to scrutinize the decisions and actions of the Executive, holding them accountable for their performance.

2. Parliamentary Committees:
Parliament forms various committees with the task of examining specific issues, policies, or legislation in detail. Standing committees, like the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) and the Estimates Committee, play a crucial role in scrutinizing government expenditures and policies. These committees provide a platform for in-depth discussions, investigations, and recommendations, enhancing parliamentary oversight.

3. Debates and Discussions:
Parliamentarians have the opportunity to engage in debates and discussions on matters of national importance. This platform allows MPs to express their opinions, question government policies, and seek clarifications from ministers. Through these deliberations, Parliament can influence decision-making, express concerns, and influence the direction of government actions.

4. Approval of Budget:
The power of the purse lies with the Parliament. The Executive needs parliamentary approval for its budgetary allocations. By scrutinizing and approving the budget, Parliament can influence government priorities, policies, and spending. If the budget is not passed or faces significant opposition, it can lead to political and administrative consequences, holding the government accountable.

5. No-Confidence Motions:
Parliamentarians have the authority to bring a vote of no-confidence against the government. If a majority of the members support the motion, it can lead to the resignation of the government, triggering the need for fresh elections. This significant power ensures that the Executive remains responsive to the will of the Parliament.

6. Interpellation and Adjournment Motions:
Interpellation allows MPs to seek explanations from ministers on specific issues. Adjournment motions can be moved to draw the attention of the Parliament to urgent matters. Both mechanisms enable Parliament to demand accountability and transparency from the Executive.

7. Right to Information (RTI):
While not directly within the purview of Parliament, the Right to Information Act empowers citizens to seek information from government bodies. This indirect mechanism enhances transparency and allows citizens and MPs to access information about government actions, decisions, and policies.

In essence, the various tools at the disposal of Parliament in a parliamentary system ensure that the Executive remains accountable, transparent, and responsive to the needs and concerns of the people. The ongoing interplay between the Parliament and the Executive reflects the foundational principles of democratic governance, where the power ultimately rests with elected representatives who, on behalf of the people, exercise control over the Executive branch.