Question Hour in the Indian Parliament
The Question Hour is an essential part of parliamentary proceedings in India. It is the first hour of every sitting of both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, where Members of Parliament (MPs) ask questions to ministers about various public issues, and ministers are obliged to respond.
Historical Background
- Introduced by: Indian Councils Act, 1892
- Regulated by: Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Parliament
- Scope: Questions can be asked to Ministers and, in special cases, even to Private Members (non-ministers)
Types of Parliamentary Questions
1. Starred Question
- Answer: Oral
- Supplementary Questions: Allowed
- Marked by: An asterisk (*)
- Discussion: Can lead to a brief debate on the floor
2. Unstarred Question
- Answer: Written only
- Supplementary Questions: Not allowed
- Discussion: No oral discussion permitted
3. Short Notice Question
- Answer: Oral
- Notice Period: Less than 10 days
- Condition: Accepted only when the question relates to a matter of urgent public importance
Importance of Question Hour
- Promotes transparency and accountability in government functioning
- Enables MPs to raise matters of public concern
- Ensures the executive remains answerable to the legislature