For the motion: Bhanu Dhamija & Rajesh Jain
Against the motion: Teesta Setalvad and Pavan K. Varma
Chair: Mini Menon
At the time of Independence, India opted for the parliamentary form of government where the Prime Minister and the cabinet would be appointed by the winning party. This offers a more diverse representation of constituencies and voices but restricts the talent pool as well as the moral authority of the head of state.
With the Presidential system the President is directly elected by the people and his/her power stems from his/her direct mandate. He/ She is not constrained in appointing the cabinet and can chose the best qualified candidates, even if they are outside government and have not won an election. However, this system affords fewer checks and balances and can more easily be subverted by an autocratic President.