Private Member’s Bills in India: Explained

🔰 Introduction

In Indian parliamentary democracy, legislative power doesn't belong solely to the executive. Private Member’s Bills (PMBs) allow non-minister Members of Parliament (MPs) to introduce their own legislation, reflecting the participatory nature of our democracy. Inspired by the Westminster model, PMBs promote inclusive governance and provide a platform for alternative voices.

📌 What is a Private Member’s Bill?

A Private Member’s Bill is introduced by an MP who is not a minister. As per Article 107 and 108 of the Indian Constitution, MPs can introduce Bills subject to the Rules of Procedure. Typically introduced on Fridays, PMBs rarely become law but play a critical role in democratic discourse.

🗳️ Importance of Private Member’s Bills

• Legislative Diversity: PMBs often address neglected issues like LGBTQ+ rights, digital safety, and gig economy workers.
• Bottom-Up Law-Making: MPs bring constituency and future-facing concerns without executive interference.
• Checks and Balances: PMBs ensure Parliament retains its legislative primacy and isn't merely an extension of the executive.

📊 Trends and Data

17th Lok Sabha (2019–2024)

• 729 PMBs introduced in Lok Sabha; 705 in Rajya Sabha
• Only 2 Lok Sabha and 14 Rajya Sabha Bills discussed

18th Lok Sabha (as of 2024)

• 20 MPs introduced PMBs; 64 Bills introduced
• No Bill discussed due to adjournments, debates, and disruptions

These stats show the institutional neglect of Private Member’s Bills.

⚖️ Landmark Examples

• Right to Disconnect Bill (2019): Though not passed, it sparked a national debate on work-life balance.
• Rights of Transgender Persons Bill (2014): Passed in Rajya Sabha and influenced the 2019 law.
• Healthcare for Senior Citizens Bill: Showed PMBs can be used by ruling party MPs too.

🛑 Challenges Faced by Private Member’s Bills

• Anti-Defection Law (Tenth Schedule): Prevents MPs from freely legislating independently.
• Executive Control: Government business dominates parliamentary time.
• Lack of Support: MPs lack research and legal help to draft quality PMBs.
• Minimal Visibility: Media and electoral systems don't incentivize PMBs.

🌍 Global Best Practices

• UK: Ten-Minute Rule allows brief PMB introductions with debate flexibility.
• Canada & New Zealand: Ballot systems ensure fair PMB scheduling and staff support for MPs.

Lesson: Procedural innovations can empower Private Members without disrupting government priorities.

🔄 Suggested Reforms

• Protect Fridays: Reserve and enforce PMB debates except in emergencies.
• Standing Committee: Prioritize impactful PMBs for discussion and debate.
• Extend Hours: Slight extension in working hours to accommodate PMBs.
• Drafting Support: Offer legal and research assistance to MPs.
• Promote Autonomy: Encourage MPs to be legislative entrepreneurs.

🧩 Why PMBs Matter for the Future

With future delimitation possibly increasing MPs beyond 900, Parliament must evolve. PMBs will be vital in:

• Voicing regional diversity
• Promoting innovative policy
• Deepening deliberative democracy

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar rightly called PMBs a "gold mine" of democratic creativity. It's time we mined it earnestly.

📚 UPSC CSE Prelims MCQs

1. What is a Private Member’s Bill?
   A. A Bill introduced by the President
   B. A Bill introduced by a Cabinet Minister
   C. A Bill introduced by a Member of Parliament who is not a minister
   D. A Bill passed by Rajya Sabha only
2. Which of the following Bills was introduced as a Private Member’s Bill?
   A. Right to Education Bill
   B. Goods and Services Tax Bill
   C. Right to Disconnect Bill
   D. National Food Security Bill
3. When are PMBs typically introduced in Parliament?
   A. Monday
   B. Wednesday
   C. Friday
   D. Saturday
4. The Anti-Defection Law is part of which Constitutional Schedule?
   A. Fifth
   B. Eighth
   C. Tenth
   D. Twelfth
5. Which country uses the Ten-Minute Rule for PMBs?
   A. India
   B. United Kingdom
   C. New Zealand
   D. Germany

📝 UPSC Mains Practice Question

Q. Despite their limited legislative success, Private Member’s Bills play a vital role in deepening India’s parliamentary democracy. Discuss. (250 Words).

Also Read:

• India & Globalisation: Strategy in a Fragmented World

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