30.Parliament (Part-V) (Parliament : Privileges and Bills) Flashcards
1
Q
What are parliamentary privileges?
A
Parliamentary privileges are special rights, immunities, and exemptions enjoyed by the two Houses of Parliament, their committees, and their members.
2
Q
Who has the authority to define the powers, privileges, and immunities of Parliament and MPs?
A
According to Article 105 and 194, the powers, privileges, and immunities of Parliament and MPs are to be defined by the Parliament. No law has been enacted in this regard so far.
3
Q
What are collective privileges in Parliament?
A
Collective privileges are the privileges that belong to each House of Parliament collectively.
4
Q
What rights does Parliament have regarding the publication of its reports, debates, and proceedings?
A
Parliament has the right to publish its reports, debates, and proceedings and also the right to prohibit others from publishing the same.
5
Q
What disciplinary actions can Parliament take for breach of privileges or contempt?
A
Parliament can punish members as well as outsiders for breach of its privileges or its contempt by reprimand, admonition, or imprisonment. In the case of members, suspension or expulsion can also be imposed.
6
Q
What are collective privileges in Parliament?
A
Collective privileges are the privileges belonging to each House of Parliament collectively.
7
Q
What rights does Parliament have regarding the publication of its reports, debates, and proceedings?
A
Parliament has the right to publish its reports, debates, and proceedings and also the right to prohibit others from publishing the same.
8
Q
Can Parliament exclude strangers from its proceedings and hold secret sittings?
A
Yes, Parliament can exclude strangers from its proceedings and hold secret sittings if necessary.
9
Q
What authority does Parliament have in making rules for its own procedure and the conduct of its business?
A
Parliament has the authority to make rules to regulate its own procedure and the conduct of its business.
10
Q
What actions can Parliament take for breach of its privileges?
A
Parliament can punish members as well as outsiders for breach of its privileges.
11
Q
What are individual privileges of Parliament members?
A
Individual privileges are the privileges belonging to the members of Parliament individually.
12
Q
During what period are Parliament members protected from arrest?
A
Parliament members cannot be arrested during the session of Parliament and 40 days before the beginning and 40 days after the end of a session.
13
Q
What freedom do Parliament members have in terms of speech?
A
Parliament members have freedom of speech in Parliament.
14
Q
Are Parliament members exempted from jury service?
A
Yes, Parliament members are exempted from jury service.
15
Q
Why were parliamentary privileges introduced in the British Parliament?
A
Parliamentary privileges were introduced in the British Parliament to prevent the arrest and harassment of legislators in the House of Commons when they criticized the crown.
16
Q
What freedom of speech was provided to Indian parliamentarians compared to citizens?
A
Indian parliamentarians were provided absolute freedom of speech in the house, while citizens’ freedom of speech was restricted.
17
Q
How did the Supreme Court respond to the freedom of speech provided to parliamentarians?
A
The Supreme Court upheld the decision to provide absolute freedom of speech to parliamentarians, showing respect for the legislators, many of whom were freedom fighters.
18
Q
What decision did the founding fathers leave regarding the codification of parliamentary privileges?
A
The founding fathers left the decision to codify the privileges on the wisdom of Parliament.
19
Q
Why did some current legislators oppose the codification of parliamentary privileges?
A
Some current legislators argued that codification would take away the sovereignty of Parliament and also claimed that they do not constitute civil servants.
20
Q
When can parliamentarians be arrested?
A
Parliamentarians cannot be arrested during sessions and 40 days before the session.
21
Q
How does the immunity of parliamentarians extend beyond a year?
A
Considering three sessions per year, the immunity of parliamentarians extends beyond 365 days.
22
Q
What is a common observation regarding the slapping of privileges?
A
It is commonly observed that privileges are often slapped on citizens, civil servants, and journalists.
23
Q
Why are parliamentary privileges important?
A
Parliamentary privileges are important:
*To enable parliamentarians to perform their functions without hindrance.
*For the protection of the members of each House.
*To eliminate external interference in the functioning of legislatures.
24
Q
What is the purpose of legislative privileges?
A
Legislative privileges are provided to ensure that legislatures can discharge their duties without fear, favor, and external interference.
25
What is the biggest issue with parliamentary privileges?
The biggest issue with parliamentary privileges is that they are not codified.
26
How do these privileges invade constitutionalism?
These privileges give legislators the power to be the sole judges of their own privileges, breaches, and punishments, which goes against constitutionalism.
27
Can parliamentary privileges be misused?
Yes, parliamentary privileges can be misused. For example, in 2017, two journalists were imprisoned by the Karnataka assembly based on recommendations from its privilege committees.
28
How does absolute freedom of speech for parliamentarians affect equality?
Granting absolute freedom of speech to parliamentarians places them above citizens, which undermines the principle of equality.
29
What is the controversy surrounding parliamentary privileges and court jurisdiction?
The controversial aspect of parliamentary privilege is the power and jurisdiction of courts to review and intervene in parliamentary privileges.
30
How have other countries dealt with the issue of parliamentary privileges?
Other countries like Britain and Australia have codified their parliamentary privileges, while the U.S. House of Representatives has been working without penal powers for centuries.
31
What is the non-judicial power of inquiry held by legislatures?
The non-judicial power of inquiry allows legislatures to define their privileges.
32
According to Walter Bagehot, what function do privileges fulfill in the house?
According to Walter Bagehot, privileges fulfill the expressive and informative function of the house as they represent the voice of the people.
33
How does the Doctrine of Pith and Substance relate to privileges?
The Doctrine of Pith and Substance is used by courts to address the issue of overreach of legislation, but it may not be fair to apply it preemptively at the inquiry stage.
34
How does the concept of cooperative federalism relate to privileges?
The concept of cooperative federalism fails when a state is barred from participating in discussions due to privileges, as cooperation requires inclusiveness.
35
What is the role of courts in discussing parliamentary privileges?
Courts are not able to discuss or determine what can and cannot be discussed by parliamentarians. They act as balancing wheels and are not supreme in the same way as the US constitution.
36
In the case of M.S.M. Sharma (1958), what did the Supreme Court prioritize?
In the case of M.S.M. Sharma (1958), the Supreme Court prioritized parliamentary privileges over free speech.
37
What was the Supreme Court's stance on the absolute powers of Parliament by 1967?
By 1967, the Supreme Court was convinced that Parliament should not have absolute powers.
38
What recent event involving Facebook and the Delhi assembly relates to parliamentary privileges?
The recent event involves the Delhi assembly summoning Facebook and placing it before the Peace and Harmony committee on the grounds of violating parliamentary privileges.
39
What is one suggestion for the way forward regarding parliamentary privileges?
One suggestion for the way forward is the codification of privileges, which would enhance the accountability of legislatures.
40
What did the Constitution Review Commission headed by Justice M.N. Venkatachaliah recommend regarding privileges?
The Constitution Review Commission recommended that privileges should be defined and delimited for the free and independent functioning of the legislatures.
41
What is the role of the opposition in a democracy?
The role of the opposition is to act as the voice of the voiceless, hold the ruling party accountable, and safeguard the rights and liberties of the people.
42
Why is the opposition considered the soul of democracy?
The opposition is considered the soul of democracy because it ensures a pluralistic society, prevents autocratic rule, and promotes the principles of democracy.
43
Give an example of the opposition's role in extending a government scheme during the national lockdown.
The opposition played a role in extending the PM-Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana during the national lockdown.
44
What is one important role of the opposition regarding accountability?
One important role of the opposition is to ensure that the government acts as per its manifesto and democratic principles, including fighting against corruption.
45
How did the combined effort of the opposition in 2012 impact government accountability?
The combined effort of the opposition in 2012 in India against corruption led to the framing of the Lokpal, which increased government accountability.
46
How does the opposition safeguard the rights of the people? Provide an example.
The opposition highlights any wrongdoings during the government's reign and works to uphold the rights of the people. For example, the use of the question hour during the 2020 Kisan Andolan helped bring attention to the rights of the protestors.
47
Why did India adopt a multiparty system?
India adopted a multiparty system to accommodate its vast diversity and plurality as a nation with a large population.
48
Which party is the largest opposition in the Indian parliament?
The Indian National Congress (INC) is the largest opposition party in the parliament.
49
What is one challenge faced by the opposition in terms of electoral strength?
The opposition, including the Indian National Congress, lacks the numerical strength to effectively challenge the ruling party.
50
What is a major obstacle to united efforts among the opposition parties?
The opposition is often divided between party interests and regional interests, making it challenging to have united efforts.
51
Give an example of the opposition remaining silent on an issue outside their forte.
When the Farm bills were passed, Akali Dal MPs retracted their support to the government, while other opposition parties remained silent. Similarly, MPs from Tamil Nadu alone protested for reforms in NEET exams.
52
How does defection impact the role of the opposition?
Defection, when self-interest is prioritized over national interest, weakens the role of the opposition. The 2019 National elections witnessed numerous political defections aimed at personal victory.
53
How is the absence of opposition compared in the text?
The absence of opposition is compared to a body without a soul.
54
What did the Democracy Index of EIU label India as?
The Democracy Index of EIU labeled India as a flawed democracy due to a weak opposition.
55
What happens when the opposition weakens according to history?
When the opposition weakens, the cabinet tends to strengthen itself.
56
How do protests reflect the failure of the opposition?
The growing number of protests, such as students' protests, protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act, and farmers' revolt, depict the failure of the opposition and the strengthening of the cabinet.
57
How does the weak opposition impact governance?
The weak opposition leads to discontent among the masses due to unpopular bills, acts, and ordinances, causing people and local governments to act insensitively towards administration, resulting in paralyzed governance.
58
Can you provide an example of the impact of weak opposition on governance?
When farm bills were passed with minimal resistance from the opposition, several state governments enacted laws to nullify the changes, causing a deadlock for administration.
59
What reform is needed when no party in the opposition secures 55 or more seats?
When no party in the opposition secures 55 or more seats, the reform needed is to recognize the numerically largest party in the opposition as the leader of the opposition by the speaker.
60
What inconsistency is mentioned regarding the 10% formulation?
The 10% formulation is inconsistent with the law 'the salary and allowances of leaders of opposition in Parliament Act, 1977,' which states that the largest opposition party should get the post.
61
What is the importance of opposition uniting across party lines?
Opposition should unite across party lines for the welfare of society at large, especially on issues of national or constitutional importance.
62
What reform is suggested for strengthening anti-defection laws?
The suggestion is to revisit and address multiple legal loopholes identified by legislators in the anti-defection laws.
63
Why is an effective opposition considered essential in parliamentary democracy?
An effective opposition is essential for the successful operation of parliamentary democracy, as it provides checks and balances, promotes accountability, and ensures a vibrant democratic process.
64
What is suggested as a best practice for India based on the UK example?
Setting up a Shadow Cabinet, as witnessed in the UK, is suggested as a best practice for India to enhance the functioning of the opposition.
65
According to political scientist W H Morris Jones, what was his view on the Indian parliament in 1957?
W H Morris Jones referred to the Indian parliament as "Unmistakably a story of success" based on the nature of its debates and conduct.
66
What incident during the passage of the Finance Bill 2018 highlights the deterioration in the functioning of the parliament?
The Finance Bill 2018 was passed in a mere 18 minutes of introduction, highlighting the level of deterioration in parliamentary proceedings.
67
What trend is observed regarding the duration of parliamentary sessions in recent times?
There is a trend of shorter parliamentary sessions, with the FY20 budget session ending two weeks before the determined date, the monsoon session lasting for ten days, and the cancellation of the winter session.
68
How has legislative scrutiny been affected in recent Lok Sabhas?
According to data by PRS India, the proportion of Bills wetted by the Departmentally Related Standing Committees (DRSCs) decreased from 60% in the 14th Lok Sabha and 71% in the 15th Lok Sabha to 27% in the 16th Lok Sabha.
69
What are the consequences of frequent disruptions during parliamentary sessions?
Frequent disruptions lead to the adjournment of the house, resulting in a loss to the exchequer and reserved time for legislations. As per PRS India, 46% of Lok Sabha time and 26% of Rajya Sabha time get disrupted due to lack of discipline.
70
What was the situation in the budget session of FY21 regarding discussions on the budget?
The budget session of FY21 listed the budget of only five ministries and discussed only three of them. The remaining discussion, accounting for 27 lakh crore, was passed by guillotine.
71
What is the significance of private members' bills, and what incident depicts the limited role of the opposition in lawmaking?
Private members' bills are an important part of legislation and reflect the will of the opposition. The lapse of Shashi Tharoor's Transgender Protection bill depicts the limited or no room for the opposition in lawmaking.
72
When did Parliament complete 70 years since its first sitting?
Parliament completed 70 years since its first sitting on May 13, 2022.
73
What is the trend observed regarding the share of young MPs in the Lok Sabha?
The share of MPs in the 25-40 age bracket has gradually declined, from 26% in the first Lok Sabha to 12% in the 17th Lok Sabha.
74
How has the representation of women MPs in Parliament changed over the years?
The number of women MPs has seen a gradual increase. Currently, 15% of MPs in the Lok Sabha and 12% MPs in the Rajya Sabha are women. However, the representation of women in Parliament is relatively low compared to countries like the UK, where the House of Commons has 35% women.
75
What is the trend observed regarding the educational qualifications of MPs?
More MPs now have higher education qualifications. In the first Lok Sabha, 58% of MPs had at least an undergraduate degree, which increased to about 80% in the 13th Lok Sabha. The most common profession among MPs in the first Lok Sabha was a lawyer (32%), but this has decreased over the years (only 4% in the 17th Lok Sabha). More MPs now declare their profession as social and political workers (from none in the first Lok Sabha to 38% in the 17th Lok Sabha).
76
How has the population per MP changed over the years?
The population of India has increased significantly, but the number of seats in the Lok Sabha has only increased by 11%. As a result, the number of citizens represented by an MP has substantially increased from about eight lakhs in 1952 to about 25 lakhs in 2019.
77
What is the trend observed in the sitting days of the Lok Sabha and the number of Bills passed?
The sitting days in the Lok Sabha have declined over the years, from an annual average of 121 days during 1952-70 to 68 days since 2000. Additionally, fewer Bills are being passed by Parliament in recent years. The maximum number of Bills were passed during the 8th Lok Sabha (355), while the least number of Bills were passed during the 15th Lok Sabha (192) among all Lok Sabhas with a five-year term.
78
What percentage of Bills introduced in Parliament have been referred to Committees since 2004?
Since 2004, only 45% of the total Bills introduced in Parliament have been referred to Committees.
79
When were Parliamentary Standing Committees created and what is their purpose?
Parliamentary Standing Committees were created in 1993 to assist Parliament in its legislative and financial business.
80
What is the trend observed in the referral of Bills to Committees in recent years?
The decline in referring Bills to Committees has been more prominent in recent years, particularly in the 16th and 17th Lok Sabha.
81
In which country are all Bills (other than Money Bills) sent to Committees for examination?
In the United Kingdom, all Bills (other than Money Bills) are sent to Committees for examination.
82
How has the time spent by Lok Sabha on discussing the Union Budget changed over the years?
The time spent by Lok Sabha on discussing the Union Budget has been declining since the 1990s.
83
How many instances have there been where the Budget was passed without discussing ministry-wise allocations?
Since 1952, there have been four instances where the Budget was passed without discussing ministry-wise allocations.
84
How many trust votes (including No Confidence Motions and Confidence Motions) have been moved in Lok Sabha till date?
Till date, 39 trust votes have been moved in Lok Sabha.
85
In how many instances was the Prime Minister not able to prove majority on the floor of the House during trust votes?
There have been five instances (1979, 90, 96, 97, and 99) where the Prime Minister was not able to prove majority on the floor of the House during trust votes.
86
What are adjournment motions and what is the trend observed in their numbers?
Adjournment motions are moved to draw attention to a recent matter of urgent public importance. The number of such motions has decreased after the 5th Lok Sabha, and in the 17th Lok Sabha, no adjournment motion has been taken up so far.
87
What is the way forward to strengthen the scrutiny of bills?
The time for Members to scrutinize the bill should be increased, and a strong culture of research and support should be created.
88
What should be made mandatory in certain bills according to the proposed way forward?
Public feedback should be made mandatory in certain bills, and it should be assigned relevant weightage.
89
What is the importance of Legislative Impact Assessment?
Legislative Impact Assessment is important to understand the social, economic, and environmental impact of the bill, which can be used in debates.
90
How can the role of opposition be strengthened?
The role of opposition can be strengthened by creating a shadow cabinet in line with the British Parliament.
91
What is meant by the term "Criminalization of Politics"?
Criminalization of Politics refers to the participation of criminal elements of society in elections and their subsequent election as Members of Parliament and Members of State Legislature Assembly.
92
What percentage of Rajya Sabha members face criminal cases according to an analysis by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR)?
According to the analysis, 24% of Rajya Sabha members face criminal cases based on their self-sworn affidavits.
93
What is one of the reasons for the lack of decriminalization in politics?
Lack of political will among the parties is one of the reasons for the reluctance towards decriminalization.
94
What is one of the issues in enforcing laws against criminalization of politics?
The criminal justice systems, including the judiciary and police, are not adequately equipped to handle the level of crimes associated with politics.
95
What is a factor that influences voters in supporting candidates with criminal backgrounds?
The self-interest of voters, who often vote based on caste and community considerations, without scrutinizing the candidates' criminal records.
96
What is the role of the "Money-Muscle-Men" nexus in facilitating the election of criminals?
Criminal entities use the unholy nexus of Money-Muscle-Men to gain an advantage in elections, enabling them to win despite their criminal backgrounds.
97
Why do voters sometimes feel compelled to vote for candidates with criminal records?
Voters are often left with no choice as many competing candidates have some form of criminal record associated with them.
98
What is a legal loophole that allows individuals under trial to contest elections?
Section 8 of the Representation of Peoples (RP) Act, 1951 disqualifies a person convicted with a sentence of two years or more from contesting elections, but those under trial can still be eligible to contest elections.
99
How does the criminalization of politics affect free and fair elections?
Criminalization of politics hinders the ethos of free and fair elections as criminals have an unfair advantage with their money and muscle power.
100
What is the impact of criminalization of politics on good governance?
When lawbreakers become lawmakers, it directly impacts good governance by promoting corruption and hindering effective governance.
101
How does the entry of criminal entities affect the integrity of public servants?
The entry of criminals into politics leads to a rise in corruption and the circulation of black money, compromising the integrity of public servants.
102
What is the consequence of criminalization of politics on public faith in the judicial system?
The involvement of politically influential individuals in criminal activities often leads to delays, repeated adjournments, and misuse of legal processes, eroding public faith in the judicial machinery.
103
What is one measure that can promote transparency in politics?
One measure is the Supreme Court's order for political parties to publish the criminal history of their candidates along with the facts considered that led to their suspension.
104
How did the Public Interest Foundation V Union of India case contribute to citizen awareness?
The case compelled political parties to publish online the pending criminal cases and election mandates, increasing citizen awareness about the criminal backgrounds of candidates.
105
What were some recommendations made by Dinesh Goswami's committee?
The recommendations include state funding of elections to level the playing field, strengthening the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct, enhancing voter awareness on issues like money and gifts, and providing statutory status to the Model Code of Conduct.
106
What is the concept of the right to recall?
The right to recall grants registered voters in a constituency the power to remove their elected representatives from office based on non-performance.
107
Why is it important to curb the high cost of campaigning in elections?
Curbing the high cost of campaigning is necessary to create a level playing field for all individuals who wish to contest elections, regardless of their financial resources.
108
What should citizens focus on when voting in elections according to the conclusion?
Citizens should vote based on the character, conduct, and capability of the candidates, rather than factors such as cash, caste, community, and criminal prowess.
109
What percentage of women members does the 17th Lok Sabha account for?
The 17th Lok Sabha accounts for 14% of women members.
110
What is India's ranking in terms of women's representation in the lower house of Parliament according to the Inter Parliamentary Union (IPU)?
India ranks 153 out of 190 nations in terms of women's representation in the lower house of Parliament.
111
Which country tops the list with the highest percentage of women in the lower house of Parliament?
Rwanda tops the list with 61% women in the lower house.
112
What is the average percentage of women MLAs in state legislatures?
The average percentage of women MLAs in state legislatures is 9%.
113
Which two states have the highest female representation in state legislatures?
Bihar and Rajasthan top the list with 14% female representation in state legislatures.
114
How does Pakistan's women representation in the lower house compare to India's?
Pakistan has 20% women representation in the lower house, higher than India's 15%.
115
What is one of the reasons for the lack of women's participation in politics according to the given text?
One of the reasons is the lack of political will among parliamentarians to implement the bill providing reservation for one-third of women's participation.
116
How does patriarchy affect women's political participation?
Patriarchy influences decisions, and women may not have real power as their decisions are often influenced by male partners or family members.
117
What is the significance of party and family background in women's political victory?
The influence of political parties and family background plays a role in ensuring women's political victory, often masking their individual identity.
118
What is one attitudinal issue faced by women in politics?
The belief that women are not equal to men is prevalent, even in the top political class, leading to challenges and criticism faced by women politicians.
119
How does literacy rate affect women's political participation?
Women's lower literacy rate, compared to their male counterparts, can impact their general awareness and ability to actively participate in politics.
120
How does the traditional gender role of women impact their political careers?
Women are often confined to domestic tasks and have to balance their work and family responsibilities, which can hinder their political careers.
121
What is one challenge related to financial support faced by women in politics?
Socio-cultural norms and limited job opportunities may prevent women from earning significantly, leading to financial dependence and barriers to political participation.
122
Which countries effectively controlled the pandemic and had women as state heads, according to the given text?
Germany, New Zealand, and Taiwan.
123
How did female governors in the USA perform compared to their male counterparts during the pandemic?
Female governors in the USA outperformed their male counterparts in terms of efficiency and making decisive decisions such as implementing lockdowns.
124
What is the contrast between suffrage and political presence for women?
Women have equal voting rights as men, but their presence in political leadership positions, such as Chief Ministers, is minimal.
125
Name some charismatic women leaders mentioned in the text.
Indira Gandhi, Jayalalitha, and Sushma Swaraj are mentioned as charismatic women leaders.
126
Why is the greater role of women in conflict resolution and peace emphasized?
Women's greater involvement in conflict resolution and peace processes has shown higher chances of success and longer-lasting peace, according to the given text.
127
What percentage of mediators, negotiators, and witnesses to peace processes are women, as mentioned in the text?
Women account for 2% of mediators, 8% of negotiators, and 5% of witnesses to peace processes, according to the text.
128
What is the success rate of negotiations involving women, as mentioned in the text?
According to the text, negotiations involving women have a 60% chance of success, and 35% of them last at least 15 years.
129
What is the "zipper system" mentioned in the text?
The "zipper system" is a practice followed in countries like Rwanda, where every third seat in the party is reserved for women.
130
What change in societal perception is suggested in the conclusion?
The conclusion suggests deconstructing the stereotype that confines women to family and household tasks.
131
What is the importance of passing a reservation for one-third of seats?
The passage of reservation for one-third of seats is considered of prime importance to address the low participation of women in politics.
132
Which are the major political parties mentioned in the conclusion?
The major political parties mentioned are the INC (Indian National Congress) and BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party).
133
What suggestion is given to the INC and BJP in the conclusion?
The suggestion is for the INC and BJP to voluntarily reserve one-third of seats in their party, which could lead to the enactment of reservation for women when substantial women are seen in such parties.
134
What does MPLADS stand for?
MPLADS stands for Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme.
135
Who funds the MPLADS?
The MPLADS is fully funded by the Central government.
136
What is the aim of the MPLADS?
The aim of the MPLADS is to enable MPs to recommend developmental works in their constituencies, focusing on creating durable community assets in areas such as drinking water, primary education, public health, sanitation, and roads.
137
When was the MPLADS formulated?
The MPLADS was formulated in 1993.
138
How much annual spending is allotted to each MP under the MPLADS?
Each MP is entitled to spend Rs 5 crore annually under the MPLADS.
139
Which other scheme is the MPLADS funds used for?
The MPLADS funds can also be used for implementing schemes such as Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Accessible India Campaign, water conservation through rainwater harvesting, and Sansad Aadarsh Gram Yojana.
140
What is the status of MPLADS funds during the COVID-19 pandemic?
The MPLADS scheme was temporarily suspended in April 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and its funds were transferred to the Consolidated Fund of India. It was later resumed with revised installment amounts for the remaining period of 2021-22 and subsequent years.
141
Which ministry initially had control over the MPLADS?
The MPLADS was initially under the control of the Ministry of Rural Development and Planning.
142
Which ministry currently oversees the MPLADS?
In October 1994, the MPLADS was transferred to the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation.
143
How are the MPLADS funds allocated to MPs?
MPs receive ₹5 crore each year in two installments of ₹2.5 crore each.
144
Are the MPLADS funds non-lapsable?
Yes, the MPLADS funds are non-lapsable, meaning they do not expire and can be carried forward to subsequent years.
145
How do Lok Sabha MPs and Rajya Sabha MPs allocate the MPLADS funds?
Lok Sabha MPs recommend projects in their respective Lok Sabha constituencies, while Rajya Sabha MPs spend the funds in the state that elected them to the House. Nominated members can recommend works anywhere in the country.
146
What happened to the MPLADS during the COVID-19 pandemic?
The MPLADS was temporarily suspended in April 2020 due to the pandemic, and the funds were transferred to the Consolidated Fund of India. It was later resumed with revised installment amounts for subsequent years.
147
What is the funding allocation for MPs under the MPLADS from 2022-23 to 2025-26?
From 2022-23 to 2025-26, each MP will receive Rs 5 crore in two equal payments annually.
148
What are some examples of projects that can be funded under the MPLADS?
Projects related to the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Accessible India Campaign, rainwater harvesting, and Sansad Aadarsh Gram Yojana can be funded under the MPLADS.
149
How are funds transferred under the MPLADS?
Funds are not directly transferred to MPs. Instead, the government transfers funds directly to the local authorities of respective constituencies.
150
What role do MPs play in the MPLADS?
MPs can recommend works following the guidelines in their constituency, but they do not receive any money directly.
151
What criticism did the 2nd ARC make about the MPLADS?
The 2nd ARC stated that the MPLADS "seriously erodes the notion of separation of powers, as the legislator directly becomes the executive."
152
What concerns did the Comptroller and Auditor General of India raise about the MPLADS?
The Comptroller and Auditor General of India observed poor utilization of funds, poor monitoring by the ministry, poor quality and, at times, inadmissible work, and suspected fraud and corruption.
153
What is one specific issue mentioned regarding the MPLADS documentation?
The proper documentation of works as per the guidelines lacks according to the criticism of the scheme.
154
Why is the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) criticized?
The MPLADS is criticized because it violates the principle of separation of powers.
155
What role do MPs play in the implementation of MPLADS projects?
MPs only recommend projects, but the final choice and implementation rest with the district authorities.
156
What is the concern regarding the authority of district authorities in the MPLADS scheme?
It is noted that there are hardly any authorities in the district who have the courage or the gumption to defy the wishes of an MP.
157
Which cardinal principle does the MPLADS scheme violate?
The MPLADS violates the cardinal principle of separation of powers.
158
What is one reason cited for abolishing the MPLADS scheme?
The scheme is criticized for the strange distribution of authority, where MPs recommend projects but district authorities implement them without much resistance.
159
What are the CAG's observations regarding the MPLADS scheme?
The CAG observed wide variations in quantities executed against the quantities specified in the BOQ, use of lesser quantities of material than specified, lack of accountability for expenditure, and delays in issuing work orders.
160
What is one specific issue identified by the CAG in the MPLADS scheme?
The CAG noted that there are wide variations in the utilization of the MPLAD amount in various constituencies, with some members of Parliament not spending any of the allocated funds even after a year in office.
161
How did contractors manipulate the MPLADS scheme?
Contractors used lesser quantities of material than specified, resulting in excess payments and sub-standard works.
162
What was the CAG's observation regarding accountability in the MPLADS scheme?
The CAG found a lack of accountability for the expenditure in terms of the quality and quantities executed against specifications.
163
What were some of the delays identified in the MPLADS scheme?
Delays were observed in issuing work orders under the MPLADS scheme.
164
What percentage of MPs could not fully utilize the MPLADS amount from May 2014 to December 2018?
93.55% of MPs did not, or could not, utilize the entire MPLADS amount during that period.
165
How many MPs of the Lok Sabha utilized the entire amount of MPLADS during the given period?
Only 35 MPs of the Lok Sabha utilized the entire amount of MPLADS from May 2014 to December 2018.
166
How much money was released for MPLADS, and how much of it was utilized by all MPs till May 2015?
1,757 crore rupees had been released for MPLADS, but only 281 crore rupees were utilized by all 543 MPs till May 2015.
167
What percentage of the MPLADS funds was spent by all MPs combined in one year?
Only 16% of the MPLADS funds were spent in one year by all MPs put together.
168
How much unspent money was lying with various district authorities by May 2015?
By May 2015, 5,000 crore rupees were lying unspent with various district authorities since the inception of MPLADS in 1993.
169
What are the two sets of people often associated with the alleged misuse of MPLADS funds?
The two sets of people often associated with the alleged misuse of MPLADS funds are opinion-makers or opinion influencers, and favorite contractors.
170
What is a common allegation regarding the relationship between contractors and MPs in MPLADS?
It is often alleged that the contractor is a relative, close friend, or confidant of the MP, and both the contractor and the MP are financially linked to each other.
171
When was the constitutional validity of MPLADS challenged in the Supreme Court of India?
The constitutional validity of MPLADS was challenged in the Supreme Court of India in 1999, followed by petitions in 2000, 2003, 2004, and 2005.
172
When was the combined judgment on the constitutional validity of MPLADS delivered?
The combined judgment on the constitutional validity of MPLADS was delivered on May 6, 2010, with the scheme being held to be constitutional.
173
What recommendations were made by the National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution regarding the MPLADS scheme?
The National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution recommended the immediate discontinuation of the MPLADS scheme on the grounds that it was inconsistent with the spirit of federalism and the distribution of powers between the center and the state.
174
What are some suggested ways forward for the MPLADS scheme?
Some suggested ways forward for the MPLADS scheme include transparency and monitoring, citizen participation, and a focus on more sustainable asset creation.
