What is the Role of Legislative Committees in Effective Implementation of Government Schemes?

Mumbai, May 19 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, emphasized on Monday the essential role that legislative committees play in the effective functioning of the Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council, along with the successful implementation of various government schemes.

He elaborated that legislative committees are a crucial component of parliamentary democracy, equipped with special powers during their operations. These committees facilitate a comprehensive understanding of administrative processes and conduct thorough evaluations of their operations.

The legislative committees for the fiscal year 2024-25 were officially inaugurated on Monday, with the presence of CM Devendra Fadnavis. The event was attended by notable figures including Chairman of the Legislative Council Ram Shinde, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Rahul Narvekar, Deputy Chairman of the Legislative Council Neelam Gorhe, Deputy Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Anna Bansode, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Minister of State Ashish Jaiswal, and various committee heads.

CM Fadnavis pointed out that legislative work extends beyond the House and is significantly carried out through committees. Given the limited time in the House for in-depth discussions, committees take the initiative to explore issues thoroughly and ensure that pertinent topics receive the attention they deserve. When the CAG report is introduced in the Legislature, audits and observations are documented. At this juncture, information is requested from the secretaries of relevant departments to verify the facts before the final report is submitted in the House, he noted. He highlighted the importance of the Request for Proposals Committee, which was previously underestimated.

“I initiated the first request for providing governmental accommodation for police in Nagpur, granting ownership rights to slum dwellers, and increasing the limit of the 'non-creamy layer.' Following the report from this initiative, the government issued the first Government Resolution (GR) that enabled slum dwellers to attain ownership rights. The involvement of committee members enriches both the government and the legislature,” he remarked.

Chairman of the Legislative Council, Ram Shinde, stated, “The operations of Legislative Committees should proceed smoothly and effectively. The significance and contribution of these committees are as vital to governance and administration as the work conducted during sessions. Legislative Committees delve into specific issues and provide recommendations which are presented during sessions for decision-making. Thus, they play a pivotal role in the administrative and governmental decision-making process.” He mentioned that 29 committees have been announced for this year.

The Speaker of the state Assembly, Rahul Narvekar, indicated, “The Legislative Committee grants an opportunity for representatives of the people to fulfill legislative duties. They can articulate their positions clearly and ensure justice in addressing issues. The committee also holds the authority to interrogate the government in this context.”

Deputy Chairperson of the Legislative Council Neelam Gorhe remarked that committee members should wield their powers judiciously, studying how they can be better utilized for public welfare while respecting local customs during committee proceedings. Every member needs to grasp their responsibilities and actively engage in the processes.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde noted that legislative committees embody the essence of democracy.

“Committees are instrumental in addressing significant issues. The Constitution endows committees with special powers. It is crucial to explore ways to facilitate digital meetings using technology, communicate committee recommendations to the public, and enhance transparency in committee operations. These committees will provide the government with objective advice periodically. In a parliamentary democracy, it is imperative for ruling and opposition parties to collaborate through committees to serve the populace,” he stated.