Source: TH
Context: During the 17th Lok Sabha (2019–2024), only 9.08 hours were spent discussing Private Members Bills in the Lok Sabha and 27.01 hours in the Rajya Sabha.
What is a Private Member’s Bill?
- A legislative proposal introduced by Member of Parliament (MPs) who are not part of the government.
- Represents individual MPs’ legislative priorities or public issues outside the official government agenda.
- Can be introduced by both ruling and opposition party MPs.
Features:
- Non-Binding: Rejection does not affect the government’s confidence or stability.
- Legislative Independence: Reflects the independent voice of parliamentarians.
- Historical Significance: Only 14 Private Members’ Bills have become law; the last was passed in 1970.
- Scheduling: Reserved for discussion on Fridays, limiting its time and priority.
Procedure in the House:
- Drafting and Notice: The member drafts the Bill and gives a one-month notice before introduction.
- Introduction: Introduced in the House, followed by initial discussion and possible referral to a committee.
- Debate: If selected, the Bill is debated during the allotted Friday session.
- Decision: The member may withdraw it on the minister’s request or proceed for voting.
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