Why Parliamentary Oversight Matters
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar supported a parliamentary system for its accountability over absolute stability.
The system ensures daily accountability (through questions, debates) and periodic accountability (through elections).
Efficient governance must be balanced with strong parliamentary checks to ensure transparency and democracy.
Current Gaps in Accountability
Question Hour often disrupted; only 60% (Lok Sabha) and 52% (Rajya Sabha) functioned in the 17th Lok Sabha.
MPs usually raise narrow questions rather than addressing broader issues.
Committee reports are detailed but rarely debated or acted upon in Parliament.
Limited stakeholder consultation and lack of member continuity weaken committee effectiveness.
Examples of Effective Oversight
Railway dividend waiver (2015) and Motor Vehicles Bill reform (2017) followed committee suggestions.
PAC exposed corruption in the 2010 Commonwealth Games; 80% of its recommendations were accepted.
Estimates Committee pushed for more uranium mining to reduce import dependency.
What Needs to Change
Laws must be reviewed after enactment — setting up subcommittees or a review body can help.
Committee findings should be made public-friendly and brought into main House debates.
Committees need expert staff and research support, not just admin help.
Role of Technology
MPs lack expert research support, making it hard to assess complex data.
Tools like AI and data analytics can help MPs identify issues, spot trends, and improve questions.
Better tech use can make Parliament more effective and evidence-driven.
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