Why are parliamentary committees regarded as ‘mini-parliaments’? Assess whether extending their tenure can enhance their effectiveness in reflecting the representative character of the legislature.
Kartavya Desk Staff
Topic: Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business
Topic: Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business
Q3. Why are parliamentary committees regarded as ‘mini-parliaments’? Assess whether extending their tenure can enhance their effectiveness in reflecting the representative character of the legislature. (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question Government is mulling extending the tenure of parliamentary standing committees to two years, after some lawmakers complained that the current one-year term was too short to make any meaningful contribution. Key Demand of the question The question requires explaining the basis for calling committees ‘mini-parliaments’, critically assessing the impact of longer tenure on their representative role, and suggesting reforms for strengthening their functioning. Structure of the Answer: Introduction: Note the role of committees as extensions of Parliament that deepen scrutiny and ensure executive accountability. Body: Mini-parliament nature: Show how committees mirror the composition of the House, deliberate across party lines, scrutinise bills, and ensure financial oversight. Longer tenure impact: Argue for continuity, expertise, and follow-up benefits, while also noting risks like stagnation, limited powers, and political constraints. Way forward: Suggest reforms like statutory backing, expert involvement, stronger reporting mechanisms, and transparency. Conclusion: End with a futuristic note that tenure reform must be coupled with systemic strengthening to make committees true guardians of parliamentary democracy.
Why the question Government is mulling extending the tenure of parliamentary standing committees to two years, after some lawmakers complained that the current one-year term was too short to make any meaningful contribution.
Key Demand of the question The question requires explaining the basis for calling committees ‘mini-parliaments’, critically assessing the impact of longer tenure on their representative role, and suggesting reforms for strengthening their functioning.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction:
Note the role of committees as extensions of Parliament that deepen scrutiny and ensure executive accountability.
• Mini-parliament nature: Show how committees mirror the composition of the House, deliberate across party lines, scrutinise bills, and ensure financial oversight.
• Longer tenure impact: Argue for continuity, expertise, and follow-up benefits, while also noting risks like stagnation, limited powers, and political constraints.
• Way forward: Suggest reforms like statutory backing, expert involvement, stronger reporting mechanisms, and transparency.
Conclusion:
End with a futuristic note that tenure reform must be coupled with systemic strengthening to make committees true guardians of parliamentary democracy.