The Parliamentary System and Governance in India: Principles, Practices, and Challenges
India's parliamentary system, rooted in the Constitution, provides a democratic framework for governance. This article explores the system's principles, practices, and challenges.
Introduction :
The parliamentary system, adopted from the British Westminster model, is characterized by:
1. Separation of Powers: Legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
2. Representative Democracy: Citizens elect representatives.
3. Accountable Government: Executive responsible to the legislature.
Key Components :
1. Lok Sabha (House of the People): Elected representatives (Members of Parliament).
2. Rajya Sabha (Council of States): Representative of states.
3. Council of Ministers: Executive headed by the Prime Minister.
Principles of Parliamentary Governance :
1. Majority Rule: Decisions based on majority votes.
2. Collective Responsibility: Cabinet solidarity.
3. Individual Ministerial Responsibility: Ministers accountable.
Challenges and Reforms :
1. Coalition Politics: Instability and compromises.
2. Executive-Legislative Conflict: Tensions between government and opposition.
3. Electoral Reforms: Addressing voting system limitations.
4. Parliamentary Disruptions: Productivity and accountability concerns.
Significant Amendments :
1. 52nd Amendment (1985): Anti-Defection Law.
2. 91st Amendment (2003): Strengthened anti-defection provisions.
3. 101st Amendment (2017): Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council.
Landmark Cases :
1. Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973): Established parliamentary sovereignty.
2. S.R. Bommai v. Union of India (1994): Clarified parliamentary accountability.
3. Rajendra Singh Rana v. Swami Prasad Maurya (2006): Anti-defection law implications.
Conclusion :
India's parliamentary system, despite challenges, remains a robust framework for governance. Strengthening democratic institutions, promoting accountability, and addressing reforms will enhance its effectiveness.
By-
The Legal Lens : Insighst from Advocate Dr. Dhara Jay Thakkar.
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