How does the Parliament exercise control over the Executive ? Explain.

The Parliament in India, as the supreme legislative body, exercises control over the Executive through various mechanisms aimed at ensuring accountability, transparency, and responsible governance. The control is primarily exercised through scrutiny, oversight, and the Parliament's authority in approving government policies, budgets, and legislative proposals. The key mechanisms through which the Parliament exercises control over the Executive include:

1. Question Hour:
One of the primary tools for parliamentary control is the Question Hour. During this designated time, Members of Parliament (MPs) can pose questions to ministers, seeking clarifications and information on various issues. This allows MPs to hold the Executive accountable for its actions and decisions.

2. Debates and Discussions:
Parliamentary debates and discussions provide a platform for MPs to express their views, raise concerns, and question government policies. This open forum allows for a comprehensive examination of executive actions and decisions, fostering transparency and public accountability.

3. Committees:
Parliamentary committees play a crucial role in scrutinizing the functioning of different ministries and departments. Standing committees, like the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) and the Estimates Committee, conduct detailed examinations of government expenditure, policies, and implementation. These committees submit reports to Parliament, and their recommendations are instrumental in holding the Executive accountable.

4. No-Confidence Motion:
A significant constitutional tool available to the Parliament is the no-confidence motion. If a no-confidence motion is passed, the government must resign, demonstrating the ultimate authority of the Parliament in expressing its lack of confidence in the Executive.

5. Approval of Budget:
The Parliament exercises control over the Executive by approving the annual budget presented by the government. MPs scrutinize budgetary allocations, expenditures, and revenue proposals, ensuring that public funds are utilized effectively and in line with legislative intent.

6. Legislative Approval:
All legislative proposals, including bills and ordinances, require approval from both houses of Parliament. The legislative process provides an opportunity for MPs to review and critique proposed laws, ensuring that they align with constitutional principles and meet the needs of the citizens.

7. Questioning Ministers:
Ministers are accountable to Parliament and are required to respond to questions posed by MPs. This process ensures that ministers remain answerable for their decisions and actions in their respective ministries.

8. Adjournment Motions and Short Duration Discussions:
Parliament has provisions for adjournment motions and short duration discussions, allowing MPs to bring urgent matters to the notice of the House. These discussions enable a focused examination of critical issues, ensuring that the Executive is responsive to emerging concerns.

9. Oversight of Emergency Powers:
If the President proclaims a state of emergency, it requires parliamentary approval within a specified period. This provision ensures that even during emergencies, the Executive's exercise of extraordinary powers is subject to parliamentary scrutiny.

10. Judicial Review:
Though not directly within the purview of Parliament, judicial review by the judiciary acts as an external check on the Executive's actions. The judiciary, being an independent body, can interpret laws and ensure that the Executive adheres to constitutional principles.

In summary, the Parliament exercises control over the Executive through a combination of tools that promote transparency, accountability, and effective governance. The constitutional checks and balances ensure that the Executive remains answerable to the legislative body, thereby upholding the principles of a democratic and accountable government.