Declining Effectiveness

Disruptions, Executive Dominance & The Erosion of Scrutiny

PART I — THE EROSION OF DEBATE

LOST HOURS

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Constructive debate is increasingly replaced by **slogan-shouting, walkouts, and forced adjournments**, often used as a political strategy rather than a last resort.
**Decline in Sitting Days:** The Lok Sabha met for an average of ~120 days a year in the 1950s; today, it struggles to meet for **60-70 days** annually.
Precious time meant for holding the government accountable (like Question Hour) is frequently washed out.

RUSHED LEGISLATION

A sharp drop in the percentage of bills referred to **Departmentally Related Standing Committees (DRSCs)** for detailed scrutiny.
Complex and far-reaching laws are frequently passed within minutes amidst parliamentary din, bypassing clause-by-clause discussion.
The frequent use of the "Guillotine" allows ministry budgets to be passed without any debate due to lack of time.

STRUCTURAL IMBALANCE

The Legislature is meant to control the Executive, but in reality, a government with a strong majority turns Parliament into a **rubber stamp**.
**Ordinance Raj:** Frequent promulgation of Ordinances (which are meant only for emergencies) to bypass the regular legislative process.
The Anti-Defection Law (10th Schedule) forces MPs to vote exactly along party lines, suppressing intra-party debate and independent legislative scrutiny.

RESTORING BALANCE

**Consequence:** A weakened Parliament leads to poorly drafted laws, increased litigation, and an unaccountable executive.
**Reform - Mandatory Sittings:** Codify a minimum number of sitting days (e.g., 100-120 days) per year for Parliament and State Legislatures.
**Reform - Shadow Cabinet:** Institutionalize a Shadow Cabinet system to empower the opposition with resources for constructive critique.
**Reform - Strict Rules:** Enforce strict penal provisions against members who deliberately disrupt proceedings by entering the well of the House.

INITIALIZE: WORLD O — STATE LEGISLATURE & JUDICIARY