The Constitution (129th) Amendment Bill, proposing simultaneous federal and state elections, has been referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for wider consultation
Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC): Key Details
The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) is an ad-hoc, bipartisan body set up to scrutinize specific issues such as proposed legislation or policy matters in detail.
Legal Basis:
It is constituted under the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Lok Sabha.
Formation:
The Speaker of the Lok Sabha forms the JPC, drawing members from both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.
Timeframe:
The JPC is typically required to submit its report within 90 days, although this deadline can be extended if necessary.
Membership:
The committee generally comprises up to 31 members, with 21 from the Lok Sabha and 10 from the Rajya Sabha, ensuring proportional representation of political parties.
Powers and Functions:
- The JPC is an ad-hoc committee tasked with examining bills, policies, or specific referred issues.
- It engages with stakeholders, experts, and officials to conduct a detailed analysis.
- It has the authority to summon documents, witnesses, and experts for its deliberations.
- The committee’s recommendations are advisory, meaning the government is not obligated to implement them.
Reporting:
The JPC submits its findings and recommendations to Parliament, where they are discussed further for potential action.
