Reconstitution of Committee of Privileges by Lok Sabha Speaker
Key Points
The Lok Sabha Speaker has reconstituted the Committee of Privileges, a pivotal parliamentary body tasked with safeguarding the rights and immunities of the House and its members. This move is significant for UPSC aspirants, particularly for General Studies Paper 2, which covers the Indian Constitution and parliamentary processes. Last Updated: 06-03-2026
Key Facts About the Committee of Privileges
- The Committee of Privileges is a standing committee of Parliament responsible for examining breaches of parliamentary privilege.
- Article 105 of the Constitution provides privileges to Parliament and its members.
- Article 194 provides similar privileges to state legislatures.
- The Lok Sabha Committee consists of 15 members nominated by the Speaker.
- The Rajya Sabha Committee consists of 10 members nominated by the Chairman.
- The Committee investigates breaches by calling witnesses and examining documents.
- Under the Tenth Schedule, the Speaker may refer defection-related petitions to the committee.
India's Legislative Integrity and Accountability
The reconstitution of the Committee of Privileges underscores India's commitment to maintaining the integrity and accountability of its parliamentary processes. This committee plays a crucial role in upholding the dignity of Parliament, ensuring that legislators can perform their duties without external interference, thus aligning with India's broader democratic and constitutional goals.
UPSC Relevance
The reconstitution of the Committee of Privileges is relevant for UPSC aspirants, particularly for:
- GS Paper 2: Indian Constitution, parliamentary processes, and privileges of Parliament.
- Prelims: Questions may focus on Articles 105 and 194, the composition and functions of the committee, and the Tenth Schedule.
- Mains: Analytical themes could include the role of parliamentary committees in maintaining legislative integrity.
FAQ Section
- What is the Committee of Privileges?
The Committee of Privileges is a standing parliamentary committee that examines cases involving breaches of parliamentary privilege to protect the rights and immunities of the House and its members. - Why is the Committee of Privileges important?
This committee is crucial for maintaining the independence and dignity of Parliament, ensuring accountability for actions that obstruct legislative functioning. - What are the key features of the Committee of Privileges?
The committee consists of 15 members in the Lok Sabha and 10 in the Rajya Sabha, examines breaches of privilege, and investigates defection matters under the Tenth Schedule.
Detailed Coverage
- Parliamentary privileges ensure legislators can perform their duties freely.
- Article 105 grants privileges to Parliament and its members.
- Article 194 applies similar privileges to state legislatures.
- A breach of privilege violates the rights of Parliament or its members.
- The Committee of Privileges examines breaches of parliamentary privilege.
- Lok Sabha Committee: 15 members nominated by the Speaker.
- Rajya Sabha Committee: 10 members nominated by the Chairman.
- It investigates cases by calling witnesses and examining documents.
- Determines if a breach of privilege or contempt has occurred.
- Submits reports to the House for acceptance or modification.
- Most privilege notices are usually rejected.
- Speaker can refer disqualification petitions on defection to the committee.
- Protects the independence and dignity of Parliament.
- Ensures accountability for actions obstructing parliamentary functioning.
- Helps maintain discipline and integrity in legislative proceedings.
- Recent reconstitution aims to enhance the protection of parliamentary rights.