Difference between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha in the Indian Parliament
The Indian Parliament consists of two houses – the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. While both houses play an imp role in the legislative process, they have distinct characteristics and functions. In this article, we will explore the differences between the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
Historical Evolution and Purpose
India’s two-house parliament has been around since colonial times when the British brought in the idea. Even after India gained independence in 1947, the people who made our Constitution decided to keep this system. They had a couple of reasons for this. First, it helped keep things familiar because it was similar to how things were done before. Second, it helped balance power between the central government and the states.
Composition and Membership
The Lok Sabha, also known as the House of the People, is the lower house of Parliament. It consists of members who are directly elected by the people of India. The total number of members in the Lok Sabha is 545, with 543 members representing the states and union territories, and 2 members representing the Anglo-Indian community.
On the other hand, the Rajya Sabha, also known as the Council of States, is the upper house of Parliament. It consists of members who are elected by the members of the State Legislative Assemblies. The total number of members in the Rajya Sabha is 245, with 233 members representing the states and union territories, and 12 members nominated by the President of India.
Term Duration and Elections
The members of the Lok Sabha are elected for a term of five years. Elections for the Lok Sabha are held periodically, and the entire house is dissolved before each election. The President of India has the power to dissolve the Lok Sabha if necessary.
In contrast, the members of the Rajya Sabha are elected for a term of six years. One-third of the members retire every two years, and new members are elected to fill the vacancies. Unlike the Lok Sabha, the Rajya Sabha is a permanent body and is not subject to dissolution.
Powers and Functions
Both houses wield significant powers, but they differ in their spheres of influence and authority. While the Rajya Sabha acts as a check on the Lok Sabha, particularly in matters concerning state interests and legislation, the Lok Sabha holds sway over crucial domains such as finance and executive appointments. The Rajya Sabha’s ability to amend or reject money bills underscores its role as a revising chamber, ensuring thorough scrutiny of fiscal matters.
Special Powers and Criticisms
While the Rajya Sabha has its important job, some people have not been happy with how it works. They say it mostly just looks over laws that are already made and doesn’t have much say in making new ones. Also, the way states are represented isn’t always fair, which goes against the idea of giving each state equal importance. And there’s another issue: some members are chosen by the government, not by voters, which makes people wonder if they’re really accountable to the public.
Representation and Role
The Lok Sabha represents the people of India and is considered the more powerful house of Parliament. It has the authority to introduce and pass bills, including money bills, which deal with taxation and government spending. The Lok Sabha also has the power to remove the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers through a vote of no confidence.
On the other hand, the Rajya Sabha represents the states and union territories of India. It plays an important role in the legislative process by reviewing and suggesting amendments to bills passed by the Lok Sabha. The Rajya Sabha cannot introduce or amend money bills, but it can suggest changes and delay their passage for up to 14 days.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha are two important pillars of the Indian Parliament. While the Lok Sabha represents the people and has more legislative powers, the Rajya Sabha represents the states and plays a crucial role in reviewing and suggesting amendments to bills. Both houses work together to ensure a balanced and democratic decision-making process in India.
