Q6.Do Department -related Parliamentary Standing Committees keep the administration on its toes and inspire reverence for parliamentary control? Evaluate the working of such committees with suitable examples.

Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committees (DRPSCs) are crucial instruments of legislative oversight, comprising members from both Houses, aimed at scrutinizing ministry functions to enhance accountability and parliamentary control over the executive.

Keeping Administration on its Toes and Inspiring Reverence

DRPSCs significantly keep the administration on its toes by scrutinizing bills, budgets, policies, and demands for grants, enhancing legislative oversight beyond floor debates. They provide a detailed, non-partisan examination platform, compelling administrative transparency and responsiveness. Their reports often influence government policy, force reconsideration of proposals, and hold ministries accountable for implementation, thereby reinforcing parliamentary supremacy and inspiring public confidence.

Challenges and Limitations

• Advisory nature: Recommendations are not binding.
• Lack of enforcement: No direct power to compel implementation.
• Limited time/resources: Insufficient for thorough scrutiny.
• Political partisanship: Can hinder non-partisan examination.
• Attendance issues: Irregular member attendance impacts effectiveness.

Illustrative Examples

• Success: Recommendations on the Land Acquisition Bill and financial legislation demonstrate influence.
• Lapses highlighted: Reports on railway safety or defence procurement have exposed administrative deficiencies, prompting corrective action.

DRPSCs are vital for democratic accountability, yet their impact is often diluted by their advisory status and executive dominance. Strengthening their powers, ensuring timely implementation of recommendations, and fostering greater political will are essential to fully realize their potential in upholding parliamentary control.