Coalition government
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- It is a government formed by multiple political parties, when no single party wins an outright majority in an election, who collaborate to create a majority in the legislature.
- These are characterized by shared responsibilities among participating parties.
- It requires compromise and negotiation to maintain stability and function effectively.
Advantages:
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- Broader representation of political opinions and interests.
- Checks and balances
- More balanced and moderated policies.
- Greater accountability
- Enhanced deliberation
Disadvantages:
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- Lack of decisiveness
- Policy paralysis or watered-down legislation
- Political instability
- Complex accountability and responsibility for government actions or failures.
- For example: During the 2G spectrum scam 2011
- Justice M.N. Venkatachaliah coalition politics as a sign of the “degeneration of democracy”.
18th Lok Sabha and coming back of coalition politics:
Recently, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has secured a historic third consecutive term in power at the Centre. However, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has not reached the majority mark of 272 seats on its own, marking a return of coalition government in India’s political landscape.
Rise of cabinet form is marginalization of parliament
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- Increased Use of Ordinances: Between 2014 and 2024, the government issued an average of 10 ordinances per year.
- Decline in Parliamentary Debates: In the 17th Lok Sabha (2019-2024), about 69% of the bills introduced were passed in the same session. The average time spent debating bills has reduced by 40% over the last decade.
- Reduced Role of Parliamentary Committees: The number of bills referred to parliamentary committees has dropped to just 27% in 17th
- Centralization of Power in PMO: The PMO has taken unilateral decisions like the 2023 Agnipath Scheme, with little parliamentary discussion.
- Weakening Role of Opposition: In the Rajya Sabha, almost 50% of the Opposition strength was depleted due to suspensions.
- Executive Control over Legislative endeavor: No private member’s bill has been passed in the 17th Lok Sabha.
