'Lack of a binding framework for pre-legislative consultations in India limits citizen engagement in the lawmaking.' Propose measures to strengthen the role of public consultation in the legislative process.
Main Body
Statement analysis - India has weak pre-legislative consultation framework compared to developed democracies. Citizens have limited access to draft bills and legislative proposals.
Problems:
1. Bills presented suddenly to Parliament with minimal public notice
2. Limited time for stakeholder feedback
3. Complex legislative language inaccessible to common people
4. Parliamentary questions dominate over public suggestion
5. Pressure from interest groups often override public interest
Measures to strengthen:
1. Mandatory 30-day public consultation period for all bills
2. Online portal for transparent sharing of draft bills
3. Parliamentary standing committees to conduct public hearings
4. Simple language for draft bills
5. Regular town halls by MPs with constituents
6. Impact assessment reports before bill introduction
7. Increased use of social media for wider engagement
Open original scan
Page 7
Harshdeep Sagar
Parliament and State Legislatures - Structure, Functioning, Powers & Privileges
Conduct of Business
Conduct of Business
123
Total words
3
Paragraphs
analytical
Tone