How does the Parliament exercise its control over the executive ?

The Parliament, as a key institution in a parliamentary democracy, exercises control over the executive branch through various mechanisms designed to ensure accountability, transparency, and adherence to democratic principles. This control is essential to maintain a system of checks and balances, preventing the abuse of executive power. Here are some ways in which the Parliament exercises control over the executive:

1. Legislative Oversight:
Parliament exercises control through its legislative functions. It can scrutinize and debate proposed laws, ensuring that they align with the overall objectives of public welfare and are in accordance with the Constitution. The legislative process involves the introduction of bills, debates, committee reviews, and voting. This scrutiny acts as a check on executive actions and legislative proposals.

2. Question Hour and Debates:
Parliament exercises control during Question Hour and debates. Members of Parliament can pose questions to ministers, seeking clarification on policies, actions, or issues of public concern. The subsequent debates provide an opportunity for detailed discussions and critical analysis of government policies and decisions. This process helps in holding the executive accountable for its actions.

3. Committees and Reports:
Parliament appoints various committees, such as Public Accounts Committee (PAC) and Committee on Public Undertakings (COPU), to scrutinize executive actions in detail. These committees review government policies, expenditures, and administrative decisions, producing reports that are presented to Parliament. The recommendations in these reports may lead to policy changes or corrective actions by the executive.

4. No-Confidence Motions:
Members of Parliament can bring a motion of no-confidence against the government. If the motion is passed, it indicates a lack of majority support for the executive, leading to the resignation of the government or the dissolution of the Parliament. This mechanism ensures that the government remains accountable to Parliament and reflects the will of the people.

5. Financial Control:
Parliament exercises significant control over public finances. The government must present the annual budget to Parliament for approval. Members of Parliament scrutinize the budgetary allocations, ensuring that public funds are spent efficiently and in line with legislative priorities. This control over finances is a powerful tool for Parliament to influence and check the executive.

6. Impeachment Process:
In some parliamentary systems, Parliament can initiate impeachment proceedings against certain high-ranking officials, such as the President or judges. The process usually involves charges of serious misconduct or violation of the Constitution. The impeachment mechanism is a rare but crucial tool to hold top executives accountable for their actions.

7. Approval of Executive Appointments:
Parliament often plays a role in the appointment and confirmation of key executive officials. In some systems, parliamentary approval is required for appointments to critical positions, ensuring that individuals appointed to key roles have the confidence of the legislative branch.

In conclusion, the Parliament exercises control over the executive through a combination of legislative, oversight, and accountability mechanisms. This multi-faceted approach ensures that the executive branch remains transparent, accountable, and responsive to the will of the people as represented by their elected representatives in Parliament.