Evaluate the nature and functions of parliamentary democracy.

Nature of Parliamentary Democracy

The nature of parliamentary democracy is characterized by several key features:

• Head of State vs. Head of Government: A clear distinction exists between the Head of State (President in India, largely ceremonial) and the Head of Government (Prime Minister, wielding executive power).
• Collective Responsibility: The executive (Council of Ministers) is collectively responsible to the legislature. This means the government stays in power only as long as it enjoys the confidence of the Parliament. A ‘vote of no confidence’ can lead to its fall.
• Political Parties: Parliamentary systems are heavily reliant on political parties. Governments are formed by parties or coalitions that command a majority in the legislature.
• Fusion of Powers: There is a fusion, rather than a strict separation, of powers between the executive and the legislature. Ministers are typically members of Parliament.
• Rule of Law & Constitutionalism: Parliamentary democracies operate under the rule of law and are governed by a written constitution, ensuring fundamental rights and limiting governmental power.

In the Indian context, the nature of parliamentary democracy is further shaped by its federal structure, multi-party system, and socio-economic realities. The Indian Parliament, comprising Lok Sabha (House of the People) and Rajya Sabha (Council of States), reflects this complexity.

Functions of Parliamentary Democracy

Parliamentary democracy performs a multitude of functions, crucial for effective governance:

Legislative Function

The primary function is law-making. Parliament debates, amends, and enacts legislation on subjects listed in the Union, State, and Concurrent Lists (as per the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution). Bills can originate in either House, except Money Bills which must originate in Lok Sabha. Recent examples include the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023, reserving 33% seats for women in Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies.

Executive Function

Parliament controls the executive through various mechanisms:

• Question Hour: Ministers answer questions posed by MPs, ensuring accountability.
• Zero Hour: MPs raise urgent matters for discussion.
• Budgetary Control: Parliament approves the annual budget, controlling government spending.
• Committees: Parliamentary committees (e.g., Public Accounts Committee, Estimates Committee) scrutinize government policies and expenditure.

Financial Function

Parliament exercises control over the nation’s finances. The budgetary process, including taxation and expenditure, is subject to parliamentary approval. The Finance Commission (established under Article 280) plays a crucial role in recommending the distribution of tax revenues between the Centre and States, which is then approved by Parliament.

Judicial Function

While not directly involved in judicial decision-making, Parliament can impeach the President or judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts. It also has the power to amend the Constitution (though with specific procedures and limitations, as established by the Kesavananda Bharati case (1973)).

Deliberative Function

Parliament serves as a forum for debate and discussion on important national and international issues. This function enhances transparency and public participation in governance.

Constituent Function

Parliament has the power to amend the Constitution, adapting it to changing societal needs. However, the basic structure of the Constitution, as defined by the Supreme Court, cannot be altered.

Evaluation of Parliamentary Democracy in India

India’s parliamentary democracy has demonstrated both strengths and weaknesses:

Strengths	Weaknesses
Stability: Despite a multi-party system, India has largely maintained political stability.	Coalition Politics: Frequent coalition governments can lead to instability and policy paralysis.
Representation: Provides representation to diverse interests and social groups.	Criminalization of Politics: The presence of individuals with criminal backgrounds in Parliament undermines democratic norms. (Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) reports consistently highlight this issue).
Accountability: Mechanisms like Question Hour and parliamentary committees ensure executive accountability.	Disruptions & Low Productivity: Frequent disruptions in Parliament hinder legislative work.
Free and Fair Elections: India has a robust electoral system, ensuring free and fair elections.	Influence of Money & Muscle Power: Elections are often influenced by money and muscle power, distorting the democratic process.