Topic: Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these.
Q3. Critically examine the role of opposition parties in ensuring executive accountability in India. Analyse the structural challenges they face. Suggest reforms to strengthen parliamentary democracy. (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: IE
Why the question
Recent debates on executive dominance, declining parliamentary deliberation and the limited effectiveness of opposition parties have renewed concerns about the health of India’s parliamentary democracy.Key Demand of the question
The question requires a critical examination of how opposition parties ensure executive accountability, an analysis of the structural constraints that weaken their role, and a discussion on reforms needed to strengthen parliamentary democracy in India.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly highlight the constitutional significance of the Opposition in a parliamentary system and its role in maintaining checks and balances.Body
- Role of opposition parties in ensuring executive accountability through parliamentary mechanisms and constitutional conventions.
- Structural and institutional challenges that limit the effectiveness of opposition parties in India.
- Reforms required at institutional, procedural and party-system levels to strengthen parliamentary democracy.
Conclusion
Conclude by emphasizing that a resilient democracy depends on both a strong executive and an empowered, responsible Opposition, and that institutional reforms are essential for democratic balance.
