Comment on the declining trend of legislative debates.

Question

Ghissu Editorial · Accepted Answer

Legislative debate has declined because of single-party majorities, the anti-defection law and party whips, frequent ordinances, fewer committee referrals and weak research support, eroding executive accountability. The 17th Lok Sabha sat only about 55 days a year, against about 135 days in the first Lok Sabha.

**Introduction**

The declining trend of legislative debates in India’s Parliament and state legislatures undermines democratic accountability and the constitutional role of legislatures as forums for scrutiny and lawmaking. This erosion threatens the quality of democracy and weakens government oversight.

**Causes and Consequences**

1. **Maharashtra Assembly⟦1⟧ Instability**: The Maharashtra Assembly’s low sittings and frequent disruptions exemplify legislative dysfunction and political instability, limiting effective representation and debate. This crisis reflects broader challenges in state legislatures affecting governance quality.  
3. **Budget Passed Without Discussion**: From 2019 to 2023, around 80% of the budget was passed without any discussion, signaling a sharp decline in legislative scrutiny and eroding public trust in parliamentary processes.  
4. **Increase in Ordinances and Reduced Debate**: Ordinance promulgations have increased by 109% compared to 2009, allowing the executive to bypass parliamentary debate and weakening legislative oversight, as seen in frequent use during recent years.  
5. **Decline in Committee Referrals and Research Support**: The referral of bills to parliamentary committees dropped from 71% in the 15th Lok Sabha to 25% in the 16th, reducing detailed scrutiny. Additionally, inadequate research support limits legislators’ capacity for informed debate.

**Way Forward**

1. **Fix Minimum Sittings**: Implement the National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution⟦2⟧’s recommendation of at least 120 Lok Sabha and 100 Rajya Sabha sittings annually to ensure sufficient time for debates and accountability.

**Conclusion**

Addressing the decline in legislative debates through institutional reforms is essential to uphold democratic governance and restore Parliament’s accountability role. Strengthening sittings, committees, and legislative support will revive robust deliberations, safeguarding India’s constitutional democracy and participatory governance.

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