The tenure of parliamentary standing committees is likely to be extended from one year to two years, allowing for more thorough scrutiny of bills and improved continuity in their functioning. Preparations have already begun to formalize this extension, addressing a long-standing demand from parliamentarians.
The government’s proposal aims to ensure stability and strengthen the committees’ ability to review bills, budgets, and reports in greater depth. A two-year tenure would give members sufficient time to understand departmental issues, oversee long-term projects, and enhance the overall quality of their work.
Currently, the composition of the standing committees is decided annually, with their term ending on September 26. Many parliamentarians have argued that a one-year tenure is too short and disrupts the committees’ continuity, undermining the effectiveness of their work. In response to these concerns, the government is seriously considering extending the term to two years.
According to sources, even with the extended tenure, most committee chairpersons are expected to retain their positions. However, changes in committee memberships may be made, depending on requests from political parties. The selection of members rests with the parties themselves, which recommend the names of their MPs based on the committees’ requirements.
The proposal also carries political implications. For instance, Shashi Tharoor, chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, is currently facing differences with his party, Congress. Should the party wish, his position could be subject to change.