QUESTION HOUR (Syllabus: GS Paper 2 – Polity)

Context: Analysis of the utilization of the Question Hour (QH) highlights distinct approaches between the NDA and UPA, showcasing variations in holding the Executive accountable through legislative interrogation.

Question Hour in Parliament

• Definition: The first hour of every parliamentary sitting, where MPs pose questions to ministers to hold them accountable.
• Regulation: Governed by parliamentary rules, with presiding officers of both Houses having final authority.
• Timing: Each Lok Sabha session in India initiates with the Question Hour (QH) from 11 am till noon.
• Parliamentary Engagement: During the Question Hour, parliamentarians pose inquiries to various ministers on a variety of policy matters.
• Preparation Period: Questions for the Question Hour need to be submitted around two weeks in advance. This allows ministers sufficient time to prepare their responses..
• Information Generation: The Question Hour generates a substantial amount of policy and political information.
• Kinds of Questions:

oStarred questions: Require oral answers and allow for supplementary questions.

oUnstarred questions: Demand written answers, disallowing supplementary questions.

oShort notice questions: Asked with less than ten days notice and are answered orally.