JPC Full Form-Joint Parliamentary Committee

Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC): Role, Functions, and Significance in Indian Democracy 

Introduction 

In a democracy, parliamentary committees play a crucial role in ensuring government accountability, scrutinizing policies, and conducting in-depth investigations on various national issues. One of the most significant committees in the Indian parliamentary system is the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC). The JPC is constituted to investigate specific issues of national importance, often related to financial irregularities, policy failures, or matters of public interest. 

This article explores the formation, powers, functions, historical significance, and challenges associated with the Joint Parliamentary Committee in India. 

What is a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC)? 

A Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) is a special ad-hoc committee constituted by the Indian Parliament to examine specific matters of importance. Unlike standing committees, which are permanent, a JPC is temporary and is formed for a specific purpose. 

A JPC is composed of members from both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, ensuring a broad representation from across the political spectrum. The primary objective of a JPC is to conduct detailed investigations and present findings to the Parliament. 

Formation and Composition of a JPC 

A JPC is formed by a motion passed in either House of Parliament, specifying: 

• The purpose of the committee. 

• The number of members (usually between 20 to 30 members, drawn from both Houses in proportion to party representation). 

• The timeline within which the committee has to submit its report. 

Once formed, the JPC selects a chairperson, usually from the ruling party, and begins its proceedings based on the terms of reference provided in the motion. 

Functions and Powers of the JPC 

The Joint Parliamentary Committee has the following major functions and powers: 

1. Investigating Key Issues: 

a. The JPC is responsible for examining allegations of corruption, irregularities, and government mismanagement. 

b. It investigates matters of national importance, such as large financial scams, irregularities in public sector operations, and crucial legislative issues. 

2. Examining Government Policies and Decisions: 

a. It scrutinizes government decisions and their impact on the economy, governance, and public interest. 

b. It evaluates policies related to defense, finance, telecommunications, infrastructure, and other key sectors. 

3. Summoning Witnesses and Experts: 

a. The committee has the power to summon government officials, ministers, and industry experts to testify and provide clarifications on issues under investigation. 

b. It can seek expert opinions to ensure thorough scrutiny of complex matters. 

4. Reviewing Documents and Evidence: 

a. The JPC has access to official records, reports, financial statements, and government files to examine the facts. 

b. It analyzes budgetary allocations, expenditure patterns, and financial transactions related to the issue under investigation. 

5. Submitting Reports to Parliament: 

a. After completing its investigation, the JPC prepares a detailed report with findings and recommendations. 

b. The report is submitted to both Houses of Parliament, and the government is expected to take action based on the recommendations. 

Historical Significance of JPCs in India 

Over the years, several high-profile Joint Parliamentary Committees have been constituted to investigate major controversies and financial scams in India. Some notable JPCs include: 

1. Bofors Scandal (1987) 

a. One of the most controversial JPCs was set up to investigate alleged corruption in the Bofors arms deal. 

b. The committee examined defense procurement procedures but faced criticism for not reaching a conclusive outcome. 

2. Harshad Mehta Stock Market Scam (1992) 

a. This JPC was formed to investigate the fraudulent stock market practices led by Harshad Mehta. 

b. It led to significant reforms in India's stock market regulations and the formation of SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India). 

3. Ketan Parekh Stock Market Scam (2001) 

a. A JPC was set up to probe stock market manipulations by Ketan Parekh and his network of brokers. 

b. It suggested reforms to prevent fraudulent trading and insider trading practices. 

4. 2G Spectrum Scam (2011) 

a. This JPC investigated the misallocation of telecom spectrum licenses, leading to massive revenue losses. 

b. The findings sparked nationwide debates and judicial interventions, ultimately leading to major policy reforms in spectrum allocation. 

5. Vijay Mallya and NPAs (2016-2017) 

a. A JPC was formed to study the rising non-performing assets (NPAs) in Indian banks and probe cases of financial fraud, including those involving Vijay Mallya and defaulted loans. 

Challenges Faced by JPCs 

While the Joint Parliamentary Committee is an important tool for parliamentary oversight, it faces several challenges: 

1. Political Influence: 

a. Since the ruling party often chairs the JPC, its neutrality and effectiveness can be questioned. 

b. Political biases sometimes affect the transparency of investigations. 

2. Lack of Enforcement Powers: 

a. JPCs can only make recommendations; they do not have direct power to enforce their findings. 

b. The government may choose to ignore or not fully implement the JPC’s suggestions. 

3. Slow and Prolonged Investigations: 

a. Some JPCs take years to complete their investigations, reducing their impact and urgency. 

b. Delays in report submission often result in loss of public interest and accountability. 

4. Limited Judicial Power: 

a. Unlike the judiciary, a JPC cannot convict individuals or impose penalties. 

b. It relies on government action and judicial follow-ups for further legal proceedings. 

The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) is a vital institution in India's parliamentary democracy. It plays a crucial role in investigating corruption cases, policy failures, and financial scams, ensuring that the government remains accountable to the people. 

Despite its challenges, the JPC remains an important tool for transparency, accountability, and good governance. Strengthening its independence, ensuring unbiased investigations, and expediting the implementation of its recommendations can enhance its effectiveness in maintaining parliamentary oversight.