Modi government preparing to extend the tenure of parliamentary standing committees, Shashi Tharoor to benefit significantly

These committees function like a ‘mini-Parliament’ even when Parliament is not in session. (File Photo: PTI)

The tenure of parliamentary standing committees is being extended from one year to two years. Currently, annual reconstitution disrupts continuity and leaves bills and reports incomplete. This change will allow committees to thoroughly review bills and important issues. This move could allow current Chairman Shashi Tharoor to remain in his position for two more years.

Preparations are underway to extend the tenure of parliamentary standing committees. This term could be extended from one year to two years. According to sources, this move aims to provide the committees with greater continuity and the opportunity to thoroughly examine bills, reports, and policy matters. The current committees’ tenure expired on September 26th.

This proposal also has political significance. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor currently chairs the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs. If the tenure of standing committees is reduced to two years, he could continue as chairman for two more years despite differences with the party.

Parliamentary Standing Committees are permanent units of Parliament, composed of MPs from both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. These committees scrutinize bills, review government policies, and budget allocations. They also hold ministries accountable.

Committees function as a ‘mini-Parliament’

Even when Parliament is not in session, these committees function as a ‘mini-Parliament’, providing MPs with the opportunity to examine policy and legislative matters in detail.

Reconstituted annually

Currently, these committees are reconstituted annually, but many MPs, including those in the opposition, believe that a one-year term is insufficient. Therefore, this term should be extended to at least two years, allowing the committees to conduct in-depth studies.

Members’ terms may be extended to two years.

While major changes to the chairs of standing committees are unlikely, the terms of newly appointed members could be extended from one year to two. This would allow the committees to operate with greater continuity and focus.