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WHIP

The article provides a discussion on the word “Whip” in the State Legislature. The article also sheds light on its application in the Legislative process.

The office of Whip is neither mentioned in the Constitution of India nor the Rules of the house as devised by the Parliament. The office is more so based on the Convention. It has been inherited as a legacy from the British. The Whip as an agent to the political party assists in smooth functioning of the business in the house. Sometimes the function of Whip can also ascertain the future of the government in the house.

Whip

The whip is a political agent appointed by a respective Party which undertakes the function of Floor Management. The Floor management involves, ensuring attendance of the members and securing their support in favour of an important issue so that the Government in ruling can pass a bill smoothly. He regulates and monitors behaviour of party members in the House to ensure smooth functioning. The members in turn, are bound to follow directions of the Whip. Any non-adherence to which can invite strict disciplinary actions against the member. They also are vital in linking members to their Party leaders. Whips cannot be issued in special cases such as Presidential Elections, where a party member cannot be directed to vote as party wishes.

Types of Whips

One-line whip to inform the members about a vote. However, it does not force members to vote according to the wishes of the party.
A Two-line whip directs the members to be present in the House at the time of voting.
Three-line whip directs the members to vote according to the wishes of the party. Thus it is the strictest of the three.

Functions of Whip

To ensure discipline among party members in the House
To ensure the attendance of the party members
To make sure the MPs vote according to the party line
To ensure that the MPs are informed of the party’s opinion on the moods of the members
To identify the signs of discontent among MPs and inform the same to respective leaders
To supply the list of speakers on Bills and other businesses in the House

Conclusion

The Whip is thus a Person which has neither a Constitutional sanction nor is backed by Rules of the House, but rather is based on convention. In recent years the office of Whip has become important owing to the indiscipline amongst party members in the house. A whip can thuis ensure smooth functioning of Parliament as well as increase efficiency in its working.