Thursday, 2 May 2024

'Whip'ping the constitution

 

In parliamentary terminology, a whip is a written order that party members be present for an important vote, or that they vote only in a particular way. It can also refer to a designated official authorized by a party to issue a whip.

Important Provisions of Whip

Not in a Constitution: Neither mentioned in the Constitution nor the  Rules of the House and Parliamentary Statute But based on the conventions of the parliamentary government
  • Type of Whip: There are typically three main types of whip  in parliamentary contexts, 
  • One-Line Whip: The mildest form of whip suggests to members that their attendance for voting is desired but not binding, granting MPs some leeway in their presence.
  • Two-Line Whip: A stronger directive, indicating that the party expects its members to be present for the vote. While technically not mandatory, MPs are strongly encouraged to abide by this whip.
  • Three-Line Whip: The most stringent form of a whip, a strict instruction to attend and vote in line with the party’s position. Deviating from this directive without permission may result in serious consequences, such as expulsion from the party.
 The Government Chief Whip: 
  • The most important duty is mapping out the time of the session, coordinating, monitoring and management of the business of the Government. 
  • Also acts as an important communication link between the leader of the House and the Members of the ruling party and also keeps in close touch with the whips of the other parties on matters concerning the business of the House as also on many other matters relating to the House as a whole.
  • The Chief whip of the government party in the Lok Sabha is the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs
  •  In the Rajya Sabha, the Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs holds this position.

Source: https://pwonlyias.com/udaan/whip-system-in-parliament/ 

These whips are more powerful than Prime minister in the democracy as they have right to impose party decisions onto its members, powers which even Prime minister doesn't enjoy and thus exactly what paves way for weakening of constitution. The more powers the chief whip are entrusted with more weaker the constitution becomes in the eyes of democracy.

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