What are the implications of frequent disruptions and adjournments in Parliament on the quality of law-making and democratic accountability?

Frequent disruptions and adjournments in Parliament have become a recurring issue in India’s legislative process. These interruptions, caused by protests, walkouts, or as a mark of respect, can significantly impact the functioning of Parliament. This affects not only the quality of law-making but also undermines democratic accountability.

• Reduced Legislative Productivity: Disruptions lead to loss of valuable time, resulting in fewer bills being discussed and passed. Important debates on bills and policies are curtailed or skipped.
• Superficial Law-Making: With limited discussion, bills are often passed without proper scrutiny. This increases the chances of poorly drafted laws, ambiguities, and unintended consequences.
• Weakening of Parliamentary Committees: Disruptions often prevent bills from being referred to committees for detailed examination, which is essential for robust law-making.
• Reduced Accountability of the Executive: Parliament is a forum for holding the government accountable through questions, debates, and motions. Frequent adjournments limit this oversight function.
• Decline in Public Trust: Continuous disruptions create a negative public perception of Parliament and erode citizens’ faith in democratic institutions.
• Impact on Policy Implementation: Hasty passage of laws without discussion may lead to implementation challenges and frequent amendments, affecting governance and stability.
• Marginalization of Smaller Parties and MPs: Disruptions often allow only louder voices to be heard, reducing opportunities for smaller parties and individual MPs to participate in debates.