This refers to the editorial “A history of neglect” (December 16). It talks about one of the most important responsibilities of Parliament — dynamic and well-conceived legislation. As the wording of Section 66A of the Information Technology Act shows, a poorly drafted law engenders indiscriminate administrative action and avoidable judicial intervention. Still, even now, Parliament devotes little time to deliberate and bring cumulative judgment to precipitate an Act of law that meets three tests (courtesy: Pratap Bhanu Mehta) — it integrates the procedure with the objective of legislation, imbibes procedural clarity such as thorough illustrations and explanations, and incorporates resource requirements for its effective implementation. A hurriedly passed law will never ensure these.
While Parliament may not boast of highly qualified members, the percentage of young and well-educated members is on the rise. Moreover, the Private Member’s Bill provides an opportunity to explore the talent. As the editorial points out, it is time Parliament examined such initiatives on merit and deliberates and adopts the appropriate ones. The tendency to re-robe them as officially sponsored Bills should be dropped. If Parliament recognises such valuable contributions from its members, it will motivate them to think and share their wisdom.
Y G Chouksey Pune
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