Answer: The Lok Sabha Ethics Committee has recently launched an inquiry into allegations of 'Cash for Query,' where a Member of Parliament (MP) is accused of receiving "Bribes" in exchange for raising questions in Parliament. The committee will undertake a comprehensive investigation, including the collection of evidence from the complainant, witnesses, and the MP facing these allegations. It may be noted that members of the committee are appointed by the Speaker for a period of one year.

• Maintaining Integrity and Accountability: The committee helps maintain the integrity of the Indian Parliament by investigating and addressing unethical conduct by MPs. This fosters a culture of accountability and responsibility among parliamentarians.
• For ex: In 2005, the Ethics Committee recommended the expulsion of 11 MPs from the Lok Sabha following a cash-for-questions scandal. 

• Preserving Public Trust: The committee's work in addressing ethical violations helps preserve the trust and confidence that the public has in its elected representatives. It reassures citizens that their elected officials are being held accountable for their actions.
• The committee has investigated cases of MPs involved in financial impropriety, criminal offenses, and unethical behavior, thereby reinforcing the idea that lawmakers are not above the law.

• Setting a Standard for Conduct: The committee establishes a benchmark for ethical conduct that MPs are expected to follow. It sends a clear message that unethical behavior will not be tolerated in the parliamentary system.
•  The committee has dealt with cases related to MPs' misconduct, such as using offensive language in the Parliament, and set a precedent that discourages such behavior.
• Educating and Advising MPs: The committee also plays an educative role by advising and counseling MPs on ethical issues. It provides an opportunity for MPs to learn from their mistakes and grow as responsible representatives.
• The committee may offer guidance to MPs who have been involved in ethical violations, helping them understand the parliamentary code of conduct better.
• Deterrence: The existence of the Ethics Committee acts as a deterrent, discouraging MPs from engaging in unethical or immoral behavior. Knowing that their actions may be scrutinized can help keep MPs in line.
• The mere existence of the committee has likely discouraged some MPs from indulging in corrupt practices or unethical conduct.

• Political Influence: The Ethics Committee operates within a political environment, and its decisions may be influenced by party politics. MPs from the ruling party or influential members may exert pressure on the committee to protect their colleagues.
• If a prominent member of the ruling party is accused of ethical violations, there may be political pressure to delay or minimize the investigation.
• Partisan Interests: The committee members themselves may have partisan loyalties, which can affect their impartiality in investigating allegations against fellow MPs.
• If committee members are predominantly from one political party, they may be more inclined to protect their party members and dismiss allegations against them.
• Limited Jurisdiction: The committee's jurisdiction is limited to ethical violations by MPs within the parliamentary premises. Allegations related to an MP's conduct outside the Parliament may not fall under its purview.
• Further, the committee can recommend disciplinary actions against MPs found guilty of ethical violations, but it may not have direct enforcement power. Implementation of its recommendations depends on the larger parliamentary body.
• Slow Process: Investigations and proceedings within the Ethics Committee can be time-consuming. This delay may lead to allegations being forgotten or not addressed promptly.
• Resource Constraints: The committee may face resource constraints in terms of staffing, budget, and infrastructure, which can hinder its ability to investigate allegations thoroughly.

The Lok Sabha Ethics Committee must ensure its independence from political pressures, increase transparency, and improve its investigative capabilities to fulfil its mandate. The committee should also actively educate MPs and citizens about ethical standards, whistleblower protections, and the importance of public office integrity to build public trust in the Indian parliamentary system.