Editorial-16/03/2026
House decorum: on the functioning of Parliament
Context
The editorial discusses the declining standards of debate and frequent disruptions in the Parliament of India, raising concerns about legislative productivity and democratic accountability. Repeated adjournments and confrontations between the ruling party and the Opposition have affected the effective functioning of Parliament.
Importance of Parliamentary Decorum
(a) Core pillar of democracy
Parliament is the highest legislative body where laws are debated, policies are scrutinized, and the executive is held accountable.
(b) Deliberative democracy
Constructive debate ensures that legislation reflects diverse views and public interests.
(c) Accountability of the executive
Mechanisms like Question Hour and debates allow MPs to question government policies and decisions.
Problems Highlighted
(a) Frequent disruptions
Protests, slogan-shouting, and walkouts often lead to adjournments, reducing productive legislative time.
(b) Declining quality of debate
Serious discussions on bills and national issues are often overshadowed by political confrontation.
(c) Weak legislative scrutiny
Important bills are sometimes passed without adequate debate or review by parliamentary committees.
(d) Political polarization
Growing confrontation between government and opposition reduces opportunities for consensus-building.
Consequences for Democracy
- Reduced legislative productivity
- Weak oversight of the executive
- Decline in public trust in democratic institutions
- Important national issues remaining unresolved
Constitutional and Institutional Mechanisms
- Rules of procedure to maintain order in the House
- Authority of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha to ensure discipline
- Parliamentary committees for detailed examination of legislation
However, these mechanisms often become ineffective due to political pressures.
Suggested Reforms
(a) Strengthening parliamentary ethics
Political parties should ensure discipline among MPs.
(b) Protecting Question Hour and debate time
Critical oversight mechanisms must not be disrupted.
(c) Greater role for committees
Bills should be routinely referred to committees for scrutiny.
(d) Building political consensus
Government and opposition must cooperate on national issues.
Conclusion
For a vibrant democracy, Parliament must function as a forum of reasoned debate rather than political confrontation. Upholding decorum and strengthening deliberative processes in the Parliament of India is essential to ensure accountability, effective law-making, and public trust in democratic governance.
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