Despite being an important instrument of legislative initiative, Private Member's Bills rarely become laws in India. Examine the factors responsible for this trend. Also, suggest measures to strengthen the role of Private Members in the legislative process. (Answer in 250 words)

Private Members Bill refer to a bill introduced by an MP either is not a Minister. Private member bills can be introduced by both government MP and opposition MPs.

Factors for non-passage of Private Members Bill:

1. Bills introduced by opposition MPs face support from government MPs & Anti-Mob lynching Bill by opposition.

2. Role of anti-defection law – MPs can't vote independently, hence forced to abide by party whip.

3. Lack of intra-democracy in parties leading to & top down decisions not supporting own party formed Bill.

4. Ideological contention among parties over issues like secularism, development, security contention bill not supported.

5. Lack of enough time given to private member to explain the content of two bills.

6. Wastage of time in RS/LS due to frequent disruptions & 77% time in LS & 47% in LS Bill was functional.

Measures to strengthen rule of Private Members in legislative process:

1. Increase sitting days in LS & is thereby allotting more time to private members to speak.

2. Effective utilisation of question hour, zero hours to give opportunity to private member.

3. Equip private members in Committee System like standing committee.

4. Innovative concepts like Opposition days as an UKle can be introduced.

5. Concept of shadow cabinet & engage opposition MPs on minute detail & legislative process.

6. Capacity building of NP/MLAs through initiatives like PRISM Project.

7. Initiatives: attendance and questions through parliamentary awards like last MP.

Participation of private members will not only increase legislative scrutiny of executive but also deepen democracy and make it more inclusive.

[Continuation from Q12] 3. Equip private members in Committee System like standing committee.

4. Innovative concepts like Opposition days as an UKle can be introduced.

5. Concept of shadow cabinet & engage opposition MPs on minute detail & legislative process.

6. Capacity building of NP/MLAs through initiatives like PRISM Project.

7. Initiatives: attendance and questions through parliamentary awards like last MP.

Participation of private members will not only increase legislative scrutiny of executive but also deepen democracy and make it more inclusive.

— Animesh Jain · AIR 63