RAS question
The concept of 'Zero Hour' in Indian Parliament is:
Correct answer: (D) An informal device not mentioned in any rule or procedure.
Zero Hour in the Indian Parliament is an informal parliamentary device, not formally recognised in parliamentary procedure or provided for in the rules.
Explanation
Zero Hour is treated as an informal device because it is not formally recognised in parliamentary procedure. The Lok Sabha FAQ places it immediately after Question Hour and the laying of papers, before any listed business is taken up, and says it starts around 12 noon; this explains the name. Members use this slot to raise matters they consider important, subject to the Speaker allowing them in the House. The same official FAQ also states that there is no provision in the rules regarding Zero Hour. Therefore, it is neither a constitutional provision nor a procedure-rule item; it is a parliamentary convention that operates in practice.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) The Lok Sabha FAQ states that there is no provision in the rules regarding Zero Hour, so it cannot be described as mentioned in the Rules of Procedure.
- (B) Zero Hour is not mentioned in the Constitution; the official description treats it as a parliamentary practice around House business, not as a constitutional provision.
- (C) Zero Hour is an Indian parliamentary innovation, so the British Parliament borrowing option misstates its origin.
Concept
This tests parliamentary procedure in Indian Polity, especially the difference between rules, constitutional provisions and informal conventions. RAS asks it because devices around Question Hour, Zero Hour and urgent public matters are easy to mix up.