Parliamentary democracy is a system of government in which the executive derives its authority from the legislature and is collectively responsible to it. The government remains in power only as long as it enjoys the confidence of the elected legislature.
Core Features
- Fusion of Powers
- The executive (Prime Minister and Council of Ministers) is drawn from the legislature.
- Unlike a presidential system, there is no rigid separation between executive and legislature.
- Collective Responsibility
- The Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the lower house of Parliament.
- Loss of majority support leads to resignation of the government.
- Dual Executive
- Nominal executive: Head of State (President/Monarch) with largely ceremonial powers.
- Real executive: Prime Minister and Council of Ministers who exercise actual authority.
- Leadership of the Prime Minister
- The Prime Minister is the head of government and central figure in policymaking and administration.
- Confidence of the Legislature
- The executive must retain majority support in the legislature to govern.
- Tools such as no-confidence motions enforce accountability.
- Opposition and Accountability
- A recognised opposition plays a key role in scrutiny, debate, and checks on executive power.
Merits
- Ensures executive accountability to the legislature
- Facilitates coordination between law-making and execution
- Flexible system allowing change of government without constitutional crisis
- Encourages responsible government and debate
Limitations
- Possibility of executive dominance over legislature in case of strong majorities
- Political instability in fragmented or coalition systems
- Decision-making may be slow due to parliamentary procedures
Parliamentary Democracy in India
- India follows the Westminster model of parliamentary democracy.
- The Council of Ministers is responsible to the Lok Sabha.
- The President is the constitutional head, while real power lies with the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers.
- The system reflects principles of collective responsibility, rule of law, and constitutional supremacy.
Conclusion
Parliamentary democracy balances authority with accountability, making the executive continuously answerable to the people’s representatives. When supported by strong institutions, an informed opposition, and constitutional morality, it provides a stable and responsive form of democratic governance.
