Comprehensive Guide to the Lok Sabha Business Advisory Committee

Understanding the Lok Sabha Business Advisory Committee (BAC)

The Business Advisory Committee (BAC) is a vital parliamentary committee established under Rule 287 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha. It plays a crucial role in planning and scheduling both legislative and non-legislative business within the Lok Sabha.

Composition of the BAC

The BAC comprises 15 members, including:

• The Speaker of Lok Sabha (Chairperson)
• The Deputy Speaker
• A minister nominated by the Prime Minister
• Leaders of recognized parties and groups in Lok Sabha
• Other members nominated by the Speaker

Primary Functions of the BAC

The main functions of the BAC include:

• Recommending time allocation for discussions on government bills and other business.
• Suggesting the order in which various items should be addressed.
• Advising on the relative priority of different types of business.
• Recommending changes in the Rules of Procedure when necessary.

Operation of the BAC

The committee usually meets at the beginning of each session and as needed thereafter. Decisions are made by consensus; if consensus cannot be achieved, the Speaker's decision is final.

Legal Authority of the BAC

The BAC derives its authority from the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha, particularly from Rules 287-290.

Interaction with Other Parliamentary Mechanisms

The BAC collaborates with other parliamentary bodies such as:

• The Rules Committee
• The General Purposes Committee
• Whips of various parties

While its recommendations are typically accepted by the House, they are not legally binding.

Management of Private Members' Business

The BAC also recommends time allocation for private members' bills and resolutions, which are generally scheduled for discussion on alternate Fridays during sessions.

Handling Urgent Business

In cases of urgent or unforeseen business, the committee can hold special meetings to address these matters or adjust the schedule, subject to the Speaker's approval.

Relationship with the Government's Legislative Agenda

Although the government sets its legislative priorities, the BAC plays a significant role in determining the timing and manner in which these priorities are addressed in the Lok Sabha. This ensures a balance between government business and other parliamentary functions.

Contributions to Parliamentary Efficiency

By pre-planning the Lok Sabha's agenda, the BAC aids in:

• Optimizing time utilization during sessions.
• Ensuring fair representation of various political viewpoints.
• Facilitating smoother conduct of parliamentary proceedings.
• Reducing procedural delays and conflicts over time allocation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the primary role of the BAC?
Answer: The primary role of the BAC is to plan and schedule the legislative and non-legislative business of the Lok Sabha, ensuring efficient use of parliamentary time.

Q2. How many members are on the BAC?
Answer: The BAC consists of 15 members, including the Speaker, the Deputy Speaker, a minister, and leaders from recognized parties.

Q3. What happens if the BAC cannot reach a consensus?
Answer: If the BAC cannot reach a consensus on decisions, the final decision rests with the Speaker of the Lok Sabha.

Q4. How does the BAC affect private members' business?
Answer: The BAC recommends time allocations for private members' bills and resolutions, typically scheduled for discussion on alternate Fridays.

Q5. What is the importance of the BAC in legislative efficiency?
Answer: The BAC enhances legislative efficiency by optimizing time utilization and ensuring fair representation of diverse political opinions in the Lok Sabha.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What does the Business Advisory Committee primarily do?
A) Manages financial affairs of Lok Sabha
B) Plans legislative business of Lok Sabha
C) Oversees election processes
D) Advises on constitutional amendments
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Who chairs the Business Advisory Committee?
A) The Deputy Speaker
B) The Prime Minister
C) The Speaker of Lok Sabha
D) A nominated minister
Correct Answer: C

Question 3: What is the maximum number of members in the BAC?
A) 10
B) 15
C) 20
D) 25
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: What is the legal basis for the BAC's authority?
A) The Constitution of India
B) Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha
C) Parliamentary Act of 1950
D) Government Ordinance
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: How does the BAC handle urgent matters?
A) It ignores them
B) It can convene special meetings
C) It refers them to the Prime Minister
D) It postpones them to the next session
Correct Answer: B