The writer is head of outreach PRS Legislative Research.

November 23, 2019 16:05 IST
NCP supremo Sharad Pawar has said that his nephew's action is an act of indiscipline, and attracts the provisions of the anti-defection law. What is this law?
Sun, Nov 24, 2019
July 27, 2019 01:35 IST
A robust lawmaking process requires thorough scrutiny by Parliament. Such scrutiny should not be impacted by either the strength of numbers in Parliament or political agreement on issues.
Sat, Jul 27, 2019
July 25, 2019 00:40 IST
The prolonged political crisis in Karnataka has demonstrated the ways in which the nearly 35-year-old anti-defection law can be used and abused. Here’s how the law was enacted, and how it has performed.
Thu, Jul 25, 2019
June 25, 2019 01:44 IST
Voice voting is the preferred method of decision making by Indian Parliament. MPs in favour of a decision call out “Ayes” and those opposed say “Noes”.
Tue, Jun 25, 2019
June 19, 2019 00:08 IST
With no security in the continuity of office, the Speaker is dependent on his or her political party for reelection. This makes the Speaker susceptible to pulls and pressures from her/his political party in the conduct of the proceedings of the Lok Sabha.
Wed, Jun 19, 2019
June 09, 2019 00:11 IST
For almost a century, Parliament has been an observer of the people who have shaped our country. But it was not part of the original plan for the Capital city
Sun, Jun 09, 2019
February 15, 2019 00:28 IST
Blame for politicisation of the Speaker’s office lies with the anti-defection law.
Fri, Feb 15, 2019
January 10, 2019 00:50 IST
In the last decade, MPs have raised slogans, snatched papers from ministers and used pepper spray in the House.
Thu, Jan 10, 2019
November 06, 2018 01:02 IST
How are private member’s Bills introduced and discussed? What chance does such a Bill have of becoming law?
Tue, Nov 06, 2018
August 08, 2018 00:39 IST
For only position elected solely by Upper House members, process is simple, contests have been rare.
Wed, Aug 08, 2018
July 20, 2018 06:14 IST
After 15 years, Lok Sabha will debate a motion of no-confidence today. What is this Parliamentary test? Which earlier Prime Ministers have faced this motion, and how did they fare in those tests?
Sat, Jul 21, 2018
May 28, 2018 00:10 IST
Rajya Sabha committee must look beyond the symptoms of dysfunction.
Mon, May 28, 2018
May 19, 2018 02:04 IST
The Indian Express explain rules for floor test, and selection and role of pro tem Speaker
Sat, May 19, 2018
April 25, 2018 00:48 IST
Lok Sabha’s attempt to lay down the procedure for removal of a judge in 1964 did not bear fruit as it was dissolved following the completion of its term. An impeachment law was finally enacted in 1968.
Wed, Apr 25, 2018
December 28, 2017 00:13 IST
Parliament in 2017 was marked by disruptions, delays and comparatively less discussion on national issues — but also, the passing of key Bills.
Thu, Dec 28, 2017
December 08, 2017 00:20 IST
For now, Parliament is ill-equipped to oversee economic issues in an integrated way
Fri, Dec 08, 2017
November 24, 2017 00:50 IST
The Constitution that came into force in 1950 required Parliament to be summoned twice in a year, with a gap of no more than six months between its sessions.
Fri, Nov 24, 2017
August 11, 2017 01:15 IST
Disruptions reduced the time for deliberations; Session had its share of controversies as well. Lok Sabha worked for approximately 70% of its scheduled time, and Rajya Sabha for about 73%.
Fri, Aug 11, 2017
August 05, 2017 01:06 IST
Perhaps the biggest challenge for the new vice president will be to assume a non-partisan role while managing the functioning of the House. The new VP will need to have the confidence of MPs on both sides of the aisle. He will have to play the arbiter between political parties and set the benchmark for non-partisan conduct.
Sat, Aug 05, 2017
June 12, 2017 05:51 IST
Let us hope that India’s new President, like others before, will rise to the office
Mon, Jun 12, 2017
April 17, 2017 01:10 IST
Overhaul rulemaking process to prevent government bypassing the will of Parliament
Mon, Apr 17, 2017
March 30, 2017 01:09 IST
Ex-MPs can travel free in AC First Class of any train when travelling alone, and in AC Second Class with a companion, both for free.
Thu, Mar 30, 2017
March 17, 2017 01:41 IST
The Defence of India Acts were temporary laws that ceased to operate after the wars ended.
Fri, Mar 17, 2017
February 07, 2017 02:08 IST
Parliament needs more funds for research, infrastructure and digital outreach
Tue, Feb 07, 2017
February 01, 2017 00:46 IST
An analysis of the contents of the President’s Address to both Houses of Parliament over the years.
Wed, Feb 01, 2017



