THE CONTEXT: The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the Opposition INDIA bloc have both emphasized their commitment to protecting the Constitution, a central theme of the recent 2024 general election campaign. Despite these declarations, the session has been marked by mutual hostility, particularly over the selection of the pro tem Speaker and the impending face-off over the Speaker’s post. The Opposition has shown a willingness to support the NDA’s candidate for Speaker in exchange for the Deputy Speaker’s post, traditionally held by the Opposition. However, the BJP remains non-committal on this arrangement.
THE ISSUES:
Call for Consensus and Parliamentary Debates: Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of consensus in governance despite the NDA not having a majority. He stressed that while a majority is necessary to run the government, consensus is crucial to govern the country effectively. This call for consensus is seen as a positive sign for democracy, but its effectiveness depends on tangible actions and genuine efforts to include the Opposition in decision-making processes.
Mutual Hostility and Lack of Convergence: Despite the rhetoric of seeking consensus and loyalty to the Constitution, the first session of the 18th Lok Sabha was marked by mutual hostility between the NDA and the INDIA bloc. This hostility carried over from the election campaign, with both sides sparring over the selection of the pro tem Speaker and preparing for a face-off over the Speaker’s post. The lack of convergence on key governance issues remains a significant challenge.
Selection of the Pro Tem Speaker and Speaker’s Post: The BJP’s choice of the pro tem Speaker, Bhartruhari Mahtab, was controversial, with the Opposition protesting the decision to overlook the senior-most Dalit MP, Kodikkunnil Suresh. The upcoming election for the Speaker’s post is also contentious, with the Opposition expressing willingness to support the NDA’s candidate in return for the Deputy Speaker’s post, a position traditionally held by a member of the Opposition.
Commitment to Parliamentary Norms and Substance: The BJP, as the leader of the ruling coalition, must demonstrate a renewed commitment to Parliament’s norms and substance. This includes fostering extended debates, allowing room for disagreements, and pursuing common ground across parties. The Opposition is also expected to respond constructively to these efforts.
Challenges and Key Issues for the Government: The government is expected to face significant opposition on several fronts, including issues related to national examinations (NEET-UG and UGC-NET), the Agnipath scheme, price rise, unemployment, and recent incidents of violence in BJP-ruled states. The stability of the government, which is shy of a majority by 32 seats, hinges on building coalitions and addressing these challenges effectively.
THE WAY FORWARD:
Restore the convention of appointing an Opposition member as Deputy Speaker: The ruling NDA should commit to appointing an Opposition candidate as Deputy Speaker, as proposed by the INDIA bloc. This would demonstrate a willingness to share power and foster cooperation. Appointing an Opposition member as Deputy Speaker is a healthy parliamentary convention that promotes bipartisanship and checks and balances.
Establish a formal consultation mechanism between government and Opposition: Institute regular, structured meetings between government and Opposition leaders to discuss legislative priorities and build consensus. This could take the form of an all-party committee that meets monthly. A formal consultation mechanism can help identify areas of agreement and narrow differences on contentious issues before bills are introduced in Parliament.
Strengthen parliamentary committees: Empower parliamentary committees by ensuring proportional representation of parties, mandating that all bills be referred to committees, and making committee reports public. Article 118 allows each House of Parliament to make rules regulating its procedure and conduct of business. This can strengthen committee processes.
Implement recommendations of the National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution: Implement critical recommendations of the commission, such as making the Prime Minister’s Questions a weekly feature and allowing more private members’ bills for discussion. Prime Minister’s Questions should be a regular weekly feature to make parliamentary control over the executive more effective.
Institute a “consensus calendar” for legislative business: At the start of each session, the government and Opposition should agree on a “consensus calendar” identifying bills and issues where bipartisan cooperation is possible. This would create dedicated time for consensus-building. A consensus calendar can help prioritize areas of agreement and create a more collaborative legislative environment.
THE CONCLUSION:
While consensus may not always be achievable or necessary, a genuine commitment to power-sharing and constructive engagement with the Opposition can enhance political legitimacy and stability. The first session of the new Lok Sabha should set a precedent for extended debates, tolerance for disagreements, and the pursuit of common ground, ensuring that the proceedings reflect the true spirit of democracy.
UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTION:
Q. ‘Once a speaker, always a speaker’! Do you think this practice should be adopted to impart objectivity to the office of the Speaker of Lok Sabha? What could be its implications for the robust functioning of parliamentary business in India? 2020
MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:
Q. Despite calls for consensus from the ruling coalition and opposition, the first session of the 18th Lok Sabha was marked by partisan disagreements. Considering this, examine the importance of building political consensus in a parliamentary democracy and suggest measures to foster greater cooperation between the government and opposition in the functioning of Parliament.
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