Topic: Parliament and State legislatures—structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these.
3. Debates are the lifeline of Parliament; their absence will diminish the institution, put a question mark on the next set of laws and deepen already hardening fault lines. In the light of recent events, examine the aforementioned statement. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Tough
Reference: Insights on India
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 2 and mentioned as part of Mission-2023 Secure timetable.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about importance of debates in the parliament for our democracy.
Directive word:
Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must investigate the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.
Introduction:
Begin by writing about the importance of parliamentary debates and discussion to our democracy.
Body:
Further elaborate how these debates and deliberations are enriching for our democracy. Cite examples to substantiate your points.
Next, give instances of reduced discussions on debates in key national issues in the parliament.
Next, evaluate the legislative process with respect of debates and discussions. Mention hasty passage of bills, frequent litigations, lack of expertise, bypassing Rajya Sabha, lack of referral to parliamentary committees etc.
Mention the measures that are needed to remedy this situation.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward.
