Parliamentary Form of Government: Meaning, Features & Pros

Introduction

The Parliamentary Form of Government is one of the most widely practiced systems of governance in the world. In this system, the executive is responsible to the legislature, and the real executive power lies with the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers. This form of government is based on the principle of cooperation and coordination between the executive and the legislature.

Countries like India, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Japan follow the parliamentary system in different forms.

Meaning of Parliamentary Form of Government

The Parliamentary Form of Government is a system in which:

• The legislature and executive are closely connected

• The executive emerges from the legislature

• The executive remains in power as long as it enjoys the confidence of the legislature

• The Head of State is nominal, while the Head of Government is real

In this system, the Prime Minister is the leader of the majority party and exercises real authority.

Origin and Development

The parliamentary system originated in England (United Kingdom). Over centuries, the power of the monarchy gradually reduced, and authority shifted to the elected representatives in Parliament.

The success of the British system influenced many countries, especially former British colonies, including India, which adopted this system after independence in 1950.

Main Features of Parliamentary Form of Government

1. Dual Executive

The parliamentary system has a dual executive:

• Nominal Executive: Head of State (President/Monarch)

• Real Executive: Prime Minister and Council of Ministers

The Head of State performs ceremonial functions, while actual power is exercised by the Prime Minister.

2. Fusion of Powers

Unlike the presidential system, there is a fusion of powers between the executive and the legislature.
Ministers are also members of the legislature and actively participate in law-making.

3. Collective Responsibility

The Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the lower house of the legislature.
If a no-confidence motion is passed, the entire ministry must resign.

4. Political Homogeneity

The executive and legislature usually belong to the same political party or coalition, ensuring smooth coordination and policy implementation.

5. Leadership of the Prime Minister

The Prime Minister is the real head of the government:

• Selects and dismisses ministers

• Controls government policies

• Acts as a link between the President and the Cabinet

6. No Fixed Tenure

The government does not have a fixed tenure.
It remains in power only as long as it enjoys the confidence of the legislature.

7. Role of Opposition

The opposition plays a vital role by:

• Criticizing government policies

• Questioning ministers

• Protecting democratic values

This ensures accountability and transparency.

Merits (Advantages) of Parliamentary Form of Government

1. Responsible Government

The executive is answerable to the legislature, ensuring democratic accountability.

2. Flexibility

The system is flexible because:

• An inefficient government can be removed

• A strong leader can continue with legislative support

3. Better Coordination

Fusion of powers ensures smooth functioning and reduces conflicts between organs of government.

4. Prevents Dictatorship

Since the Prime Minister can be removed at any time, the chances of dictatorship are minimal.

5. Suitable for Diverse Societies

This system works well in countries with diverse populations, as coalition governments allow representation of multiple interests.

Demerits (Disadvantages) of Parliamentary Form of Government

1. Political Instability

Frequent no-confidence motions and coalition breakdowns can cause unstable governments.

2. Weak Executive

The Prime Minister may become weak if dependent on coalition partners.

3. Party Dominance

The ruling party may dominate Parliament, reducing meaningful debate.

4. Slow Decision-Making

Decisions may be delayed due to discussions, debates, and compromises.

5. Dependence on Legislature

The executive may prioritize political survival over national interest.

Parliamentary Form of Government in India

India adopted the parliamentary system because:

• It ensures responsible government

• It reflects democratic traditions

• It suits India’s diverse social structure

In India:

• The President is the nominal executive

• The Prime Minister is the real executive

• The Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha

Parliamentary vs Presidential Form of Government

Countries Following Parliamentary System

Some countries following this system are:

• India

• United Kingdom

• Canada

• Australia

• Japan

Conclusion

The Parliamentary Form of Government emphasizes responsibility, accountability, and cooperation between the executive and the legislature. While it may face issues like instability and slow decision-making, it remains one of the most democratic and flexible systems of governance.

Its success largely depends on:

• Strong political institutions

• Responsible opposition

• Political awareness among citizens

When supported by democratic values, the parliamentary system proves to be effective and people-oriented.