Roles and Powers of Members of Parliament in India

The Parliament of India is the supreme legislative body of the country, and its primary function is to enact laws, debate key issues of national importance, and oversee the functioning of the government. Members of Parliament (MPs) play a central role in this process. 

The roles and powers of MPs are defined by the Constitution of India, which outlines their duties, privileges, and the powers vested in them. This article explores the roles and powers of MPs in India, focusing on the legislative, financial, representative, and oversight functions that they perform.

Legislative Functions of Members of Parliament

Enacting Laws

One of the most important roles of MPs is to legislate. The Parliament of India, composed of the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States), is responsible for making laws on a range of issues that affect the entire country. These laws are framed through Bills, which are proposed and debated in Parliament. MPs can introduce Government Bills (proposed by ministers) or Private Members’ Bills (proposed by non-government MPs).

Bills are debated in both Houses, and if they are passed, they receive the President’s assent before becoming law. In case of any disagreements between the two Houses, Parliament may hold a joint sitting where both Houses meet together to decide the matter.

Moreover, MPs have the authority to initiate laws on important subjects, including social welfare, criminal justice, education, and environmental protection. Their active participation in the legislative process ensures that laws reflect the evolving needs and aspirations of the people of India.

Amending the Constitution

In addition to enacting regular laws, MPs have the power to amend the Constitution of India. However, amending the Constitution requires a special procedure. A proposed amendment must be passed by a two-thirds majority of MPs present and voting in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. In certain cases, the approval of the State Legislatures is also required.

The power to amend the Constitution allows Parliament to adapt to changing circumstances and incorporate new principles. MPs play a key role in this process, ensuring that India’s constitutional framework remains relevant and flexible.

Initiating Motions and Resolutions

MPs also have the power to initiate motions and resolutions. This includes motions for the impeachment of the President or the removal of judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts, in cases of violation of the Constitution. Additionally, MPs can introduce resolutions on matters of national importance, such as declaring a state of emergency or addressing issues related to national security.

Motions and resolutions are debated and voted upon in Parliament, and if passed, they can significantly impact the government’s functioning and national policy.

Oversight Functions of Members of Parliament

Question Hour

MPs have the important function of holding the government accountable through Question Hour. During Question Hour, MPs ask questions to ministers regarding the government’s policies, programmes, and functioning. The questions can be oral (requiring verbal answers) or written (requiring written replies). MPs use this opportunity to seek clarification on issues of public importance, such as the implementation of government schemes, public welfare programmes, and the use of public funds.

Question Hour is a vital mechanism for ensuring transparency in governance and making the executive answerable to the legislative body.

Zero Hour

In addition to Question Hour, MPs can raise issues of urgent public importance during Zero Hour. This is a time immediately following Question Hour when MPs can speak on matters not listed in the agenda. The Speaker or Chairman of the House decides whether the issue raised is of sufficient importance to warrant discussion.

Zero Hour provides MPs with the flexibility to raise issues that require immediate attention, ensuring that Parliament remains responsive to pressing concerns.

Parliamentary Committees

MPs are also involved in various parliamentary committees that examine specific issues, review government policies, and ensure effective implementation. These committees include:

• Standing Committees: Permanent bodies that deal with ongoing matters, such as the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), the Estimates Committee, and the Committee on Public Undertakings.
• Select Committees and Joint Committees: Appointed to examine specific Bills or issues in detail.

These committees conduct investigations, scrutinise documents, invite experts, and hold discussions to make informed recommendations to Parliament. MPs, through their work on these committees, play a key role in reviewing the government’s performance and ensuring the proper functioning of public administration.

Vote of No Confidence

A significant oversight power of MPs is the ability to pass a Vote of No Confidence against the government. If the Lok Sabha loses confidence in the government, it can pass a motion that forces the resignation of the Council of Ministers. This mechanism ensures that the executive remains accountable to the legislature and cannot function without the support of the majority of elected MPs.

Representative Role of Members of Parliament

Representing Constituents

MPs are directly elected to represent their constituencies, which are geographical areas defined by the Election Commission. MPs act as the voice of the people in Parliament, raising issues that affect their constituencies and ensuring that the concerns of their constituents are addressed by the government.

MPs regularly interact with their constituents, holding meetings, attending public functions, and responding to grievances. They also raise local issues in Parliament, such as the need for better infrastructure, healthcare facilities, and educational opportunities in their areas.

Advocacy and Redressal of Public Grievances

MPs also advocate for the welfare of their constituents by helping them navigate government processes and resolve issues related to public services. This could include matters such as pensions, health insurance, and land disputes. MPs can raise these issues in Parliament or write to government departments on behalf of their constituents.

Through their representative role, MPs help ensure that the government is responsive to the needs of the people and that the welfare of the public is prioritised.

Participation in National Debates

MPs participate in debates on issues of national importance, such as economic reforms, national security, foreign policy, and social justice. Through these debates, MPs contribute to shaping the direction of the country’s policies and ensure that different viewpoints are considered before making important decisions.

MPs also play a crucial role in scrutinising government proposals and suggesting amendments to ensure that policies are beneficial to the public and in line with democratic principles.

Financial Powers of Members of Parliament

Union Budget

One of the most significant financial powers vested in MPs is their role in approving the Union Budget. The Union Budget outlines the government’s financial priorities for the year, detailing how funds will be allocated to different sectors such as healthcare, defence, education, and infrastructure.

MPs scrutinise the Budget carefully, debate its provisions, and suggest modifications. The Budget is presented by the Finance Minister and must be approved by both Houses of Parliament before it becomes law. The Lok Sabha, due to its larger membership, holds more sway in financial matters, while the Rajya Sabha can only suggest changes.

Control over Government Expenditure

MPs have the authority to approve or reject government expenditure through the discussion of the Demands for Grants. These are detailed proposals by different ministries for funds required to run their operations. MPs can debate, approve, or reduce the proposed expenditure based on their assessment of its necessity.

Through this power, MPs ensure that public funds are used judiciously and in accordance with national priorities.

Taxation and Public Finance

MPs also have the power to legislate on taxation matters. Parliament is responsible for levying taxes, such as income tax, corporate tax, and customs duties, which fund the government’s activities. MPs debate and pass laws related to taxation, ensuring that taxes are imposed fairly and that the revenue generated is used effectively for public welfare.

Privileges and Immunities of Members of Parliament

Freedom of Speech

One of the most important privileges of MPs is their freedom of speech within the House. MPs are immune from any legal action for what they say in Parliament, allowing them to speak freely and without fear of external retribution. This privilege ensures that MPs can debate and discuss national issues openly, without constraints.

Protection from Arrest

MPs enjoy protection from arrest in civil cases while Parliament is in session. This ensures that MPs can attend parliamentary proceedings without the threat of being detained. However, this immunity does not extend to criminal cases or cases involving contempt of court.

Exemption from Jury Duty

MPs are also exempt from serving on juries or attending inquests, allowing them to focus fully on their legislative responsibilities.

Conclusion

Members of Parliament play a pivotal role in the functioning of India’s democracy. They serve as lawmakers, overseers of the government, representatives of the people, and stewards of public finances. Their powers, as defined by the Constitution of India, are vast and varied, ensuring that the government remains accountable, laws are made to reflect public interests, and resources are allocated wisely. 

MPs’ responsibilities come with significant privileges, enabling them to carry out their duties effectively while also ensuring transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct in their actions. By fulfilling these roles, MPs contribute to the development, stability, and progress of the country.