The “Question Hour” is an essential part of the parliamentary proceedings in the Indian Parliament, and it serves as a mechanism for Members of Parliament (MPs) to seek information from the government, hold it accountable, and discuss various issues. The Question Hour is regulated by specific rules and procedures outlined in the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha (House of the People) and Rajya Sabha (Council of States).
1. Timing and Duration:
- The Question Hour is usually the first hour of a sitting day in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
- It is scheduled on all days when the house is in session, except on the day the President of India addresses a joint sitting.
2. Submission of Questions:
- Members submit their questions in advance to the Secretariat of the Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha.
- Questions can be of three types:
- Starred Questions: Require an oral answer and are usually answered during the session.
- Unstarred Questions: Receive a written answer and are tabled in the house.
- Short Notice Questions: Permitted in case of urgent and important matters.
3. Categorization of Questions:
- Questions are categorized into three groups based on priority.
- First Supplementary Questions: Directly related to the main question and can be asked with permission.
- Second Supplementary Questions: Seek further clarification on the reply given.
- Third Supplementary Questions: Generally not allowed but may be permitted with the Speaker’s discretion.
4. Minister’s Response:
- The Minister concerned responds to the questions posed by the Members.
- In the case of starred questions, the MP who asked the question can seek further clarifications through supplementary questions.
5. Importance and Purpose:
- The Question Hour is crucial for parliamentary oversight and transparency.
- It provides MPs with the opportunity to scrutinize the functioning of various ministries and departments.
- It allows the government to explain its policies and actions directly to the Parliament.
6. Attendance and Quorum:
- The quorum for the Question Hour is one-tenth of the total membership of the house.
- If the quorum is not met, the house may be adjourned or suspended until the quorum is achieved.
7. Role of the Speaker/Chairman:
- The Speaker (in Lok Sabha) or Chairman (in Rajya Sabha) presides over the Question Hour, ensuring that proceedings are conducted smoothly.
- The presiding officer may disallow questions that are not in adherence to the rules.
8. Follow-up Actions:
- The responses to both starred and unstarred questions are recorded in the official records (Hansard).
- The information sought through questions contributes to parliamentary debates and discussions.
The Question Hour plays a crucial role in maintaining the accountability of the executive to the legislature and is an essential component of parliamentary democracy in India. It allows Members of Parliament to directly engage with the government on matters of public interest and governance.
