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| Congress MP Rahul Gandhi speaks in Lok Sabha. (File Photo/ Screen grab from Sansad TV) |
The Question Hour in Parliament is a vital element of India’s democratic process, enabling accountability, transparency, and constructive dialogue between elected representatives and the government. This period allows Members of Parliament (MPs) to question the government on policies, administrative actions, and pressing issues affecting the country.
Through Question Hour, MPs can raise matters that concern their constituents and hold ministers responsible for their portfolios.
This article explores the significance, purpose, and mechanics of Question Hour, underlining its essential role in the Indian legislative process.
Understanding Question Hour: Purpose and Significance
What Is Question Hour?
Question Hour is held in both the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States).
The Question Hour timing in the Lok Sabha is 11.00 AM to 12:00 PM and 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM in the Rajya Sabha.
Additionally, Question Hour is held on all days of the session except for two specific occasions: the Day of the President’s address and during the Budget presentation.
During this period, ministers are obligated to answer questions posed by MPs regarding their respective ministries. This process ensures that ministers remain informed and engaged with the issues that concern the public and provides MPs with an opportunity to scrutinize government actions directly.
Why Is Question Hour Important?
Question Hour is crucial for several reasons:
1. Accountability
It holds the government accountable by demanding transparency in decision-making and implementation.
2. Public Awareness
It brings to light important issues in a public forum, allowing citizens to understand government actions on pressing matters.
3. Policy Evaluation
It provides a platform to evaluate government policies and their impacts through direct questioning.
Types of Questions in Question Hour
During Question Hour, MPs may ask different types of questions, each designed to elicit specific information:
1. Starred Questions
These questions require oral answers. MPs may ask follow-up questions, or “supplementary questions,” to probe deeper into the issue. Starred questions are marked with an asterisk (*) and are prioritized for verbal responses, enabling dynamic discussions.
2. Unstarred Questions
Unstarred questions require written responses from the ministers. Unlike starred questions, these do not allow follow-up questions, but they still serve as an official record of the government’s stance on an issue.
3. Short Notice Questions
When an urgent issue arises, MPs may ask Short Notice Questions with less notice than usual. Ministers must provide responses if the Speaker (in Lok Sabha) or Chairman (in Rajya Sabha) approves the question as one requiring immediate attention.
Procedure and Rules Governing Question Hour
Submission and Approval of Questions
MPs are required to submit questions in advance, following specific guidelines:
1. Submission
Questions must be submitted in writing, and MPs can choose whether they want oral or written responses.
2. Approval
The Secretariat screens the submitted questions, and only those deemed admissible are approved for inclusion in the day’s schedule.
3. Selection
Due to time constraints, not all questions are addressed. A lottery system is often used to determine which questions will be discussed during Question Hour.
Rules for Answering Questions
Ministers are expected to provide clear, factual responses. If additional clarification is required, they may provide further information in writing. For questions requiring substantial details, ministers may seek additional time to respond, as long as they inform the House promptly.
Key Roles in Question Hour
The Role of the Speaker and Chairman
The Speaker of the Lok Sabha and the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha play critical roles in Question Hour. They are responsible for maintaining decorum, ensuring MPs adhere to the rules, and managing supplementary questions. They also have the authority to disallow questions that do not meet parliamentary criteria.
The Role of Ministers
Ministers are obligated to answer questions related to their portfolios truthfully and comprehensively. They must remain prepared with accurate information to ensure that the discussions serve their purpose of public accountability.
The Role of Members of Parliament
MPs prepare their questions based on public concerns, constituency issues, or recent events. Their active participation during Question Hour underscores their responsibility as representatives of the people, acting as a check on government actions and advocating for transparency.
Impact of Question Hour on Governance
Question Hour is instrumental in shaping governance by:
1. Strengthening Democracy
By fostering transparency and debate, Question Hour strengthens the democratic foundation of accountability and responsiveness.
2. Highlighting Public Issues
MPs can use Question Hour to spotlight concerns that may not otherwise gain attention, ensuring they reach the national stage.
3. Improving Governance
Ministries often review their operations to prepare for Question Hour, which drives administrative efficiency and enhances policy implementation.
Common Challenges Faced During Question Hour
Time Constraints
Since Question Hour is limited to an hour per day, not all questions can be addressed. As a result, MPs must prioritize topics that have broad national importance or require urgent attention.
Unanswered Questions
Due to the lottery system, only selected questions are addressed each day, leaving many unanswered. MPs can seek written replies to ensure that their inquiries are still documented.
Disruptions in Parliament
Question Hour may occasionally be interrupted by protests or disruptions, leading to wasted time and unaddressed questions. The Speaker or Chairman may adjourn the session in such cases, reducing the overall effectiveness of Question Hour.
Conclusion
Question Hour in Parliament is a powerful mechanism that enables transparency, accountability, and democratic debate within the Indian government. By allowing MPs to question ministers directly, it ensures that governmental actions are scrutinized and that issues affecting the public are given due consideration. Despite challenges such as limited time and procedural interruptions, Question Hour remains a pillar of India’s legislative process, reinforcing the principles of a responsive and responsible government.
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