FAQ 1: What is the Indian Parliament Privileges Committee?
The Indian Parliament Privileges Committee is a specialized parliamentary committee responsible for overseeing and safeguarding the privileges and immunities enjoyed by Members of Parliament (MPs) within the legislative process.
FAQ 2: What are parliamentary privileges?
Parliamentary privileges are legal rights and immunities granted to MPs to ensure their freedom of speech, expression, and action while performing their parliamentary duties. These privileges aim to protect MPs from legal actions or consequences for statements made or actions taken within the Parliament.
FAQ 3: What is the role of the Privileges Committee?
The Privileges Committee examines cases where the privileges of MPs may have been breached or infringed upon. It investigates complaints of contempt of Parliament, breach of privileges, or breaches of parliamentary rules by individuals or entities.
FAQ 4: How is the Privileges Committee formed?
The Privileges Committee is typically constituted by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha (House of the People) or the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha (Council of States) based on the recommendation of the Rules Committee.
FAQ 5: What are the functions of the Privileges Committee?
The Privileges Committee investigates matters related to breaches of parliamentary privileges and contempt of Parliament. It examines complaints, gathers evidence, hears witnesses, and recommends appropriate actions to the House.
FAQ 6: Can the Privileges Committee take punitive actions?
Yes, the Privileges Committee has the authority to recommend punitive actions against individuals or entities found guilty of breaching parliamentary privileges. These actions may include admonition, reprimand, or even suspension.
FAQ 7: How does the Privileges Committee contribute to maintaining parliamentary decorum?
The Privileges Committee's role in investigating and addressing breaches of parliamentary privileges promotes the maintenance of parliamentary decorum, ensures the freedom of MPs to express their views without fear, and upholds the dignity of the legislative institution.
FAQ 8: How is the functioning of the Privileges Committee regulated?
The functioning of the Privileges Committee is governed by the rules and procedures outlined in the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.
FAQ 9: What is the significance of the Privileges Committee in the parliamentary system?
The Privileges Committee plays a critical role in upholding the integrity and effectiveness of the parliamentary system by safeguarding the rights and privileges of MPs. It ensures that the legislative process remains transparent, fair, and free from undue external influences.
FAQ 10: How does the Privileges Committee contribute to parliamentary accountability?
By addressing breaches of privileges and contempt of Parliament, the Privileges Committee contributes to maintaining the accountability of MPs and the parliamentary institution as a whole. It reinforces the notion that parliamentary duties are to be carried out responsibly and with due regard for established norms and rules.
