If a minister hides information about the department in Parliament, which accountability weakens?

Correct answer: Departmental and parliamentary accountability

The correct answer is A: departmental and parliamentary accountability. A minister is politically responsible for the work of the department under his or her charge and must explain that work to Parliament. Parliament needs accurate information to ask questions, examine policies, discuss spending, and identify mistakes or misuse of authority. Hiding important information prevents effective scrutiny, so both departmental responsibility and parliamentary accountability become weaker. Option B is wrong because withholding departmental information does not directly concern the process of appointing judges. Option C is wrong because it has no direct connection with ministerial reporting in Parliament. Option D is wrong because the continuing existence of the Rajya Sabha is a constitutional feature, not an accountability mechanism. Transparency is essential, but transparency also means giving relevant and truthful information. Memory cue: a minister cannot be answerable if Parliament is kept uninformed.