Question Hour and Zero Hour: Key Differences, Types of Questions

Question Hour and Zero Hour are important parliamentary procedures. They allow Members of Parliament (MPs) to oversee government functions. These sessions help MPs hold Ministers accountable and raise urgent issues affecting their constituents. Understanding these interventions is key to competitive exams focusing on Indian Polity.

Question Hour and Zero Hour in Parliament

The Indian Parliament uses various methods to ensure government accountability. Among these, Question Hour and Zero Hour stand out. They provide direct opportunities for MPs to scrutinise policies and actions.

Question Hour

Question Hour is the first hour of every parliamentary sitting. It starts daily at 11:00 AM. During this time, Members of Parliament (MPs) can ask questions to Ministers. This process holds the government accountable for its policies. Ministers must answer these questions. MPs can seek details on policy implementation or issues impacting their constituents.

Also Read: Features of Parliamentary Form of Government

Types of Questions

There are three main types of questions asked during Question Hour:

1. Starred Questions:

• Require an oral answer from the Minister.

• MPs can ask follow-up questions, called supplementary questions.

• Marked with an asterisk.

2. Unstarred Questions:

• Receive a written reply from the Ministry.

• No supplementary questions are allowed.

• Often used for data or factual information.

3. Short Notice Questions:

• Asked on matters of urgent public importance.

• Requires a shorter notice period (less than 10 days).

• Receive an oral answer, followed by supplementary questions.

• Admitted only with the Speaker's consent.

Summary of Questions

Zero Hour

Zero Hour immediately follows the Question Hour. It is an informal practice not mentioned in the Rules of Procedure of Parliament. During this hour, MPs can raise matters of urgent public importance. They do so without any prior notice. This allows members to bring up issues that cannot wait for formal notice periods. These submissions appear in proceedings as "Matters of Urgent Public Importance."

Summary of Zero Hour Practice

Key Difference Between Question Hour and Zero Hour

Question Hour is a formal, rule-based mechanism where MPs ask pre-notified questions to Ministers, whereas Zero Hour is an informal practice that allows MPs to raise urgent public matters without prior notice.