CONDUCTING PARLIAMENTARY SESSIONS OUTSIDE DELHI: A DEBATE
The idea of holding parliamentary sessions outside Delhi, particularly in South India, has recently been revived by a Member of Parliament from the YSR Congress Party. The proposal cites challenges such as extreme weather and logistical difficulties faced by MPs in Delhi and draws historical support from prominent leaders like Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
Historical Context
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Proposal
- Ambedkar suggested decentralizing parliamentary sessions to improve accessibility for people in southern states.
- In his book Thoughts on Linguistic States, he recommended Hyderabad as a second capital due to its central location and moderate climate.
- Highlighted Delhi’s extreme weather and vulnerability to external attacks as reasons for exploring alternate venues.
Private Member’s Resolution (1959)
- MP Prakash Vir Shastri proposed conducting Lok Sabha sessions in South India, naming Hyderabad or Bangalore as options.
- Atal Bihari Vajpayee supported this resolution, emphasizing its potential to enhance national unity.
Constitutional Provision
Article 85 of the Indian Constitution
- Allows the President to summon Parliament at any location in India.
- Ensures flexibility, requiring that no more than six months lapse between two sessions.
Traditional Practice
- Despite constitutional flexibility, parliamentary sessions have always been held in Delhi since independence.
Arguments in Favor of Holding Sessions Outside Delhi
Improved Regional Representation
- Increases visibility and participation of southern states in national policymaking.
- Symbolizes inclusivity, ensuring voices from all regions are heard and considered.
Climatic Advantages
- Addresses the discomfort caused by Delhi’s harsh summers and cold winters.
- A favorable climate in southern cities could enhance MPs’ productivity and well-being.
Decentralization of Power
- Demonstrates a commitment to equitable governance across all regions.
- Aligns with democratic principles by making governance accessible to diverse geographical areas.
Historical Support
- Proposals by respected leaders like Ambedkar and Vajpayee lend credibility to this idea.
- Reflects longstanding concerns about equitable national representation.
Challenges in Conducting Sessions Outside Delhi
Logistical Complexities
- Relocating parliamentary operations, infrastructure, and personnel to another city is resource intensive.
- Critics argue it may lead to inefficiency and unnecessary expenditure.
Potential Political Divisions
- Opponents fear it might deepen the perceived North-South divide, reinforcing regional identities.
- Some view it as undermining the unity fostered by Delhi as the central hub of governance.
Institutional Legacy
- Parliament’s 75-year history of operating from Delhi has not hindered southern states’ representation.
- Critics believe that the current systems in place are adequate for maintaining regional representation and inclusivity.
Global Examples of Multiple Capitals
South Africa
- Operates with three capitals: Pretoria (administrative), Cape Town (legislative), and Bloemfontein (judicial).
- Promotes geographical decentralization and regional representation.
Malaysia
- Divides functions between Kuala Lumpur (administrative capital) and Putrajaya (government hub).
- Eases congestion and provides a planned setting for governance.
Switzerland
- Bern serves as the federal city within a decentralized political framework.
- Balances linguistic and cultural diversity to foster harmony.
Australia
- Canberra was purpose-built as a neutral capital between Sydney and Melbourne.
- Reflects thoughtful planning to ensure balanced governance.
Way Forward
Pilot Regional Sessions
- Conduct occasional parliamentary sessions or committee meetings in cities like Hyderabad or Bengaluru.
- Use these trials to assess logistical feasibility and public response.
Strengthening Regional Representation
- Increase parliamentary seats for underrepresented states post-census reforms.
- Address regional equity without relocating sessions.
Leverage Technology
- Enhance virtual communication and streamline travel arrangements for MPs.
- Mitigate climatic and logistical challenges with technological solutions.
Gradual Implementation
- Begin with holding select sessions outside Delhi and evaluate the outcomes.
- Gradually increase frequency based on efficiency and inclusivity results.
Conclusion
The proposal to conduct parliamentary sessions outside Delhi raises significant issues of regional representation, inclusivity, and climate-related challenges. A balanced approach, involving pilot regional sessions, technological advancements, and strengthened representation mechanisms, can address the concerns while maintaining governance efficiency. This debate offers an opportunity to explore more inclusive and regionally balanced governance models for India’s future.