The following are some proposals for making the Parliament more effective. State if you agree or disagree with each of them and give your reasons. Explain what would be the effect if these suggestions were accepted.
Parliament should work for longer period.
I agree with this proposal. In the last two decades, there has been a gradual decline in sessions of the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies and time spent on debates. For Parliament to effectively control the executive and ensure a responsive government, there must be adequate time at the disposal of the House. If accepted, this would ensure more meaningful debates and better scrutiny of the government.
Attendance should be made compulsory for members of Parliament.
I agree with this proposal. The Houses of Parliament have been plagued by absence of quorum and boycott of sessions by members of opposition. This deprives the House of the power to control the executive through discussion. If accepted, it would ensure that members participate effectively and the House can function properly to fulfill its responsibilities.
Speakers should be empowered to penalise members for interrupting the proceedings of the House.
I agree with this proposal. There has been an increase in disturbances of the functioning of the House and walkouts. For effective control of the executive, members need to be interested in discussion and participate effectively. If the Speaker is empowered to penalise members for interruptions, it would ensure orderly proceedings and create an environment conducive to meaningful debate and discussion.
Explanation
The textbook context clearly identifies the problems facing Parliament: decline in sessions and time spent on debates, absence of quorum, boycott of sessions, and disturbances in functioning. Each proposal directly addresses these issues. The context emphasizes that for Parliament to effectively control the executive, there must be adequate time, members must participate effectively, and there must be willingness to compromise between government and opposition.